Articles This Week
Upgrades To Start on Mona Vale Road
Aquatics: Royal Motor Yacht Club Broken Bay - Grand Opening of Lounge Bar
Essential School Holiday Travel Tips From Monika’s Doggie Rescue
Pictures: Royal Motor Yacht Club 2014 Unique Car Show: Winners - report by Sally Bacon, pictures by Peter Storey
Collector's Corner: Chief Joseph & Edward S Curtis; His Remarkable Images of Native Americans, an Inestimable Record of Images and Portrait Photographs; one of the photographs of Guides who peers from our office walls inspires an investigation into early portrait photography and how much this now sells for, how much it cost, and what it is really worth.
DIY Hints: Make your own See Saw: It’s school holidays time and we know how to keep the young ones happy and get them involved in making something for them, with your help of course! As soon as you hear that 'I'm bored!'... get out the wooden boards ..and lets get building! For little boys and girls – there’s nothing like messing around with bits of wood! This is fairly easy to do, can be decorated with some great art of your children’s own choosing, can be made quite cheaply and they will get years of fun out of this.
Profile of the Week: John Stephen Ayliffe poetry and passion for the written word, always 'wanting to write' have led JSA from the formative developments in advertising in print and on radio, to meeting renowned writers, to London in 1965 and back - becoming an award winning copywriter, until today Mr. Ayliffe is a fully fledged wordsmith of iconic stature...
History: Avalon Beach Clubhouses: The First Clubhouse, the dressing sheds that preceded it and the playgrounds, parks and town planning visions of Arthur Jabez Small + a few Extras.
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.
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.
NewportNet - Great Things Happening at Newport Co-working Hub
We popped in to visit Karen Bond of NewportNet this week - a great space available for hire at fee rates that underline this great local business is all about community. NewportNet utilises optic fibre cables - never a drop out or server crash here! - and has the capacity to upload big files and send them if your home computer can't cope.
Why would you travel to town to work when you can use this great space and still be within smell of the beach?
There's a few great announcements from this power hub this week which we'd like to bring you as an update:
I am excited about my new appointment to the Leadership Committee of Enliven Pittwater. The committee will consist of Pittwater councillors and local business owners. We will be looking at ways to continue to build community spirit on the Northern Beaches, through supporting local businesses with networking and motivational speaker events, community social and environmental awareness. The Northern Beaches is a fantastic place to live and work and we’d like to continue to keep it a vibrant and collaborative destination.
Karen Bond
Following the success of TEDX At The Beach NewportNet will be expanding its events calendar, starting with:
NewportNet is starting a monthly newsletter, first edition 30th June 2014 - readers can sign up through our website contact form
Freelance Fridays in July - free desk for a Friday for local freelancers - for details on how to apply, sign up to receive the newsletter or email karen@newportnet.com.au
Pub2Pub in support of the NewportNet Kinghorn Racing Academy and ROKI
"Women's Business": 3 Entrepreneurial Leaders talk Sustainability and Taking Risks " event being planned for October. Date and speakers TBC
Continue NewportNet's commitment to philanthropy with support for SurfAid, Newport Kinghorn Surf Racing Academy.
Above Picture: Karen Bond at NewportNet this week - AJG Picture.
Aural Artistic Adventure
Residents are invited to experience multi-disciplinary artist Imogen Cranna’s new work known as play.
Imogen Cranna’s artwork will be locatedoutside Mona Vale Library from Wednesday 2nd of July to Friday 4th of July from 11.30am to 2.30pm.
Council’s Place Manager Melinda Hewitt said this was Imogen Cranna’s first work after being awarded an artist-in-residence position at Eramboo, Terrey Hills for a three month period.
Ms Hewitt said Imogen has created a sound installation that draws on soundbites from Pittwater environs.
“play invites people of all ages to experience an aural world with the piece responding to their movement. It is sure to be a unique experience!” she said.
The event forms part of the Enliven Pittwater program, an initiative of Pittwater Council. The event is weather dependent; for updates visit www.facebook/enlivenpwater
For more information about upcoming Enliven Pittwater events visitwww.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/enliven
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
New Pavement - Barrenjoey Road - North Avalon
Residents are enjoying using new pavements being completed or completed at Clareville - much safer than the road!
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
END OF FINANCIAL YEAR - SCAM ALERT
C/- NSW Police Force
It’s almost the end of the financial year and the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is warning people to guard their personal information and be wary of scams at tax time.
Remember, the ATO will never send an email asking you to confirm, update or disclose confidential details like your tax file number, passwords or credit card details.
The ATO has information outlining how you can protect your information -http://tinyurl.com/kcb54yt
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 - Published on 25 Jun 2014
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.
Taking the Drop Supports Sea Shepherd
Taking the Drop are very pleased to announce that from this point on, all proceeds from sales viawww.vividpublishing.com.au/takingthedrop
will go to Sea Shepherd Australia. This includes our EBook and also 'print on demand'...
Sheree, Danielle, Deb and Jill.
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
TEDX Pittwater!
Very excited to announce that TEDxPittwater will be held onSaturday July 5th 2014 in the Mona Vale Town Hall from 10am - 4.30pm. We have an amazing line up of speakers. Have a look at the website www.tedxpittwater.com
TEDxPittwater are looking for volunteers to help leading up to and on the day.
Needed:
• People to video and edit the talks (with 2 camera angles and good sound) for the TEDx YouTube channel.
• Front of house team to sign in our guests and seat them.
• Graphic designer to help with power point presentations leading up to the event.
If you are able to help us out let us know. You will have free access to the event and passes to the after party.
TEDxPittwater : Blue Skies - Saturday July 5 2014 10 am - 4.30 pm - a celebration of the great diversity of ideas worth sharing in Pittwater.
Website www.tedxpittwater.com
Speakers: www.tedxpittwater.com/speakers.html
Tickets $30.00 plus book fee at: HERE
Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches Awards of Excellence 2014
The SNB SLS Awards of Excellence were held on Friday 27th at the Dee Why RSL.
Max Brooks (Newport) won the athlete of the year and is nominated for the same for NSW SLS
Avalon beach SLSC won most Outstanding Club Support & Youth Member Development
Full report next Issue - Hon Rob Stokes with Max - picture courtesy Bill Sheridan
Beryls Bash 2014 – Few Tickets Left for Club Palm Beach Event
There are still a few tickets available for Beryl’s Bash fundraiser at Club 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
Friends of NB Palliative Care Newsletter Launched
At the last meeting of Friends of Northern Beaches Beaches Palliative Care there was strong endorsement for the suggestion that we publish our own newsletter. There was vocative suggestion of a graphic artist who had trained at Mona Vale Hospital as a registered nurse. Maryan Heffernan was delighted to come on board. Jo-Ann Steeves writes the articles and takes the pictures. Maryan creates the composition.
Distribution for the first issue will be about 150...targeted at people who are interested/connected to Northern Beaches Palliative Care. Hopefully this will connect us with people who actually want to know about what we are doing. We plan to publish quarterly...each season.
Sign up at fonbpc@hammond.com.au.
Free Author Talk on Valuable Book for Alzheimer's Caregivers
Are you struggling with grief, at the same time as coping with the day to day demands of a loved one with alzheimer’s? ‘A Healing Hug for Alzheimer’s Caregivers’ by Elizabeth Postle is essential reading for those hoping to make life better in these tragic circumstances.
English born Elizabeth Postle spent most of her life as a nurse but, when she left the profession after 45 years, she began a new life running her own nursing home. She nursed many dementia patients during her long career, before retiring to Australia in 2000.
‘A Healing Hug for Alzheimer’s Caregivers’ is a practical guide for caregivers, demonstrating the best practical coping techniques of everyday problems as well as tackling topics such as grief and how to look after yourself too.
Elizabeth took out a Local Achievement Award as part of the 2014 NSW Seniors Week.
When: 10 July, 2pm. Where: Mona Vale Library, 1 Park Street, Mona Vale. Cost: FREE Bookings essential: 9970 1600
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.
Wildlife Witness App – C/- Australian Federal Police
Taronga Zoo's male Sun Bear, Mr Hobbs, started life as a cub kept by a Cambodian restaurant, destined to be sold as bear paw soup. He was rescued when an Australian traveller came across him.
If you're travelling overseas, you can now use your smartphone to report possible illegal wildlife trade, using an app developed by the Taronga Conservation Society Australia.
The free ‘Wildlife Witness’ app enables users to report suspicious activity by taking a photo, pinning the exact location of an incident and sending these important details to wildlife authorities such as TRAFFIC in South-east Asia.
Don't leave home without it!
The app is available on both Android and iPhone platforms:
http://taronga.org.au/news/2014-04-09/taronga-app-empowers-travellers-report-illegal-wildlife-trade
Clubbie of the Month: Steven Polley – SLS NSW
Our Clubbie of the Month for June 2014 is Steven Polley of Dee Why SLSC who has volunteered an incredible 374.5 hours just in the 2013-14 season as a SurfCom Operator.
SurfCom Operators are responsible for:
providing vital communications between surf lifesavers on the beach and emergency services
monitoring the health and wellbeing of SLS support operations crew
coordinating SLS response to incidents, including rescue and medical incidents
collating patrol and rescue statistics
liaising with council lifeguard services
monitoring the performance of the Coastal Radio Network
We chatted to Steven about his amazing passion for Surf Life Saving in the radio room.
Name: Steven Polley, Age: 18, Club: Dee Why SLSC Occupation: Student
When did you join Surf Life Saving and why?
I joined Surf Life Saving in 2007. I have always liked helping people and knowing you can make a difference in someone's life is amazing. I love volunteering in a team environment where you can bounce off others for support. Every day is different, from being on the beach to in the radio room. One day you could be pulling people out of a rip and the next on the phone to the ambulance service passing on information. In the end the result is helping everyone that visits the beach to be able to go home safely at the end of the day and know you've done a good job. I love just seeing everyone from the surfers and the swimmers to the people on the sand and being in the sunshine, it just creates this great vibe to me and that's what keeps me coming back.
Why do you volunteer for SurfCOM?
I like the fact that the patrol can ask for assistance and we can provide the information and resources to them whether it be emergency calls or just general enquiries. You know you've done something good and the atmosphere at SurfCom is like a family. It is nice to be part of a team where everyone takes an interest in one another and works together. It gives me a great feeling.
Who is someone you admire in the Surf Life Saving movement and why?
There are a few people that I admire but one of them would be Andrew “Crowie” Crow (Surf Life Saving NSW, Duty Operations Coordinator). He is always helpful and easy to get along with and there is never a dull moment working with him at Surfcom. As I walk in for my shift, Crowie is sitting there, often already responding to the first distinctive siren indicating an emergency callout. You know you are going to have your work cut out for you when it's 8.20am and you see Crowie running four incidents at once. He is always cool, calm and collected and never lets emotions get the better of him. I always wonder how he does it.
What are your goals within Surf Life Saving?
I would like to become a State Duty Officer or Duty Operations Coordinator and be responsible for the delivery of the Surf Emergency Response System.
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer SurfCom Operator visit our website or contact Shannon Cooper, SLSNSW Lifesaving Officer.
RPAYC announce Mid Winter One Design Regatta
The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club invites all eligible International One Design Classes including Etchells, Ynglings, Dragons, Melges 24/32, Vipers, Stars, Elliott 7s and others to compete in the inaugural mid winter One Design Regatta hosted by the RPAYC on the week-end of the 12th and 13th of July, 2014.
Racing will be held inshore from 1100hrs and will be a windward / leeward course, with up to six races across the two days on the waters of Pittwater, most likely in the bid pond just north of Scotland Island. A social BBQ and prize giving will be held on Sunday afternoon post racing in Halyards bistro and bar.
Eligible boats must enter via the online entry system available on the RPAYC website at:
www.rpayc.com.au/yacht-racing/regatta-and-championships
The Notice of Race and other race documents and entry can be viewed using the same link as above.
Berthing is available to all visiting boats, contact RPAYC Waterfront to arrange allocations.
A large fleet of Etchells is expected for the One Design winter regatta in July
Pittwater Etchells sailor and RPAYC member, Jill Connell says, “This is a great opportunity for One Design class sailors wanting some more regatta competition during winter to join us on Pittwater for a couple of great days of racing. We would like to see as many One Design boats on Pittwater so please come and join in the mid winter regatta.”
Entry fee is $110 and entries close Wednesday 9 July.
For further details contact the RPAYC Sailing Office on 02 9998 3760 or email sailing@rpayc.com.au.
By Damian Devine, Marketing & Publicity Manager, RPAYC
Dragons will be racing in the Mid Winter Regatta hosted by the RPAYC
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.
Pets 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
Public Exhibition of Warriewood Valley Strategic Review Addendum Report
Pittwater residents are being encouraged to take part in a public exhibition about the future of the remaining undeveloped land in Warriewood Valley.
The Warriewood Valley Strategic Review Report 2012 (Strategic Review 2012) which dealt with the majority of undeveloped land in the Valley was endorsed by Pittwater Council a year ago. For the remaining 22 undeveloped sectors not provided with a forward path under the Strategic Review 2012, Council agreed to undertake a future review of these lands.
Council has now completed a review of this land and prepared the draft Warriewood Valley Strategic Review Addendum Report 2014 (draft Addendum Report).
The draft Addendum Report recommends a number of administrative or ‘housekeeping’ amendments to the Warriewood Valley Release Area boundary as well as some changes to the current land use designations. It will result in an additional 17 dwellings anticipated for Warriewood Valley, taking the total number of dwellings to 2527, from the previous total of 2510 dwellings.
The public exhibition will commence Tuesday 10 June until 7 July 2014. Land owners will be invited to meet with Council staff during the exhibition period. Submissions should be in writing and addressed to the General Manager. Submissions can be submitted via:
• Mail - Pittwater Council, PO Box 882, Mona Vale 1660
• Email - Pittwater_council@pittwater.nsw.gov.au
• Online - Submission form at www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/exhibition
• Fax - (02) 9970 1200
The draft Addendum Report will be available online from 10 June 2014 at www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/exhibition and hard copies available at Mona Vale and Avalon customer service centres and libraries.
NAVA Writing Grant Series - Empowering Artists to take Positive Steps towards a Brighter Future
Have you always had a hankering to apply for a grant, yet felt clueless about how and where to start? It’s time to stop procrastinating and get moving (unless you want life to pass you by!) with a two-part NAVA Writing Grants series - proudly brought to you by Eramboo Artist Environment & Enliven Pittwater.
Writing grants is very challenging as you must find a way to match your idea with the appropriate grant. There is a definite art to writing a grant application and a key to understanding the often complicated guidelines.
NAVA, the National Association for the Visual Arts, will be bringing Joan Cameron-Smith to provide an introduction to funding bodies, provide tips for researching the right grant for your needs and she will also outline what professional artist statements, biographies and CVs are all about!
A workshop will be held from 11am-4pm, Saturday 2 August(BYO lunch; afternoon tea provided) at the Eramboo Artist Environment, 304 McCarrs Creek Rd, Terrey Hills.
This workshop is designed to provide you with ongoing skills in writing artist statements and biographies, preparing professional quality support material and CVs, and writing a draft project description.
Participants must bring their artists support material and project outlines developed from the tips provided in the first workshop.
For details & bookings: info@eramboo.com
Southern Cross Wildlife Care - Critter of the Month - June 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 July 6th 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,
Click on logo above to visit their website.
Federal Government Media releases this week:
ACCC disappointed by Tribunal decision authorising AGL to acquire Macquarie Generation
SNIPPET: The Australian Competition Tribunal (the ) has decided to grant conditional authorisation AGL Energy Limited's () proposed acquisition of Macquarie Generation. The ACCC acknowledges and respects this decision by the Tribunal. The ACCC has yet to consider the detail of the conditions imposed by the Tribunal or the detailed reasons given by the Tribunal for its decision to authorise the proposed acquisition.
Australia signs the Marrakesh Treaty
SNIPPET: The Hon Julie Bishop MP. The Australian Government signed in Geneva overnight the Marrakesh Treaty to Facilitate Access to Published Works for Persons who are Blind, Visually Impaired, or otherwise Print Disabled The treaty will give an estimated 285million people with vision impairments around the world access to more books published in accessible formats including large print, braille or audio. Australians are among many communities that will benefit from this treaty.
Australia Post welcomes community debate on future - Australia Post
SNIPPET: Australia Post welcomes the release today of the Australian and International Postal Services Overview Report. We look forward to working with our many stakeholders, including the Federal Government and the community on modernising Australia Post. We have launched a new national conversation website to encourage all Australians to contribute their thoughts on the future of Australia Post and to let us know what is important to them as Australia Post evolves.
Timor-Leste Secretary of State for Defence visit
SNIPPET: Maritime security and regional stability were key points of discussion when Minister for Defence David Johnston and the Timor-Leste Secretary of State for Defence, Dr Jlio Toms Pinto met in Canberra. The security situation in Timor-Leste has remained calm and stable over the past few years, and Australia acknowledges the efforts of the Government and the people of Timor-Leste in achieving these conditions. Timor-Leste and Australia have a shared interest in the prevention of transnational crimes such as drug trafficking, people smuggling and illegal fishing, and this program would support Timor-Leste's maritime security efforts, the Defence Minister said.
Review of child care National Quality Framework performance underway
SNIPPET: The first major review of the child care National Quality Framework (NQF) is underway to measure whether it is delivering on its objective to reduce regulatory burden whilst also improving quality standards. The National Regulator also found 97 per cent of services consider the National Quality Framework to be a burden, with almost 80 per cent rating it significant. The ACECQA Report on the National Quality Framework and Regulatory Burden: http://www.acecqa.gov.au/report-on-cutting-nqf-red-tape-published_1.
Parents worry some neighbourhoods are not safe for outside children's play -Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS)
SNIPPET: Australian children whose parents are concerned about neighbourhood safety spend around two hours a week less time playing outside than children the same age, according to new research by the Australian Institute of Family Studies. Children in families where parents were concerned about neighbourhood safety spent an average of 20 fewer minutes per day outside, than children whose parents were not concerned. Boys, whose parents did not think it was safe for them to play outside, spent 27 fewer minutes per day supervised outdoors, or around 3 hours a week.
New online tool makes it easier for small businesses to find dispute resolution services
SNIPPET: Small businesses in a dispute are set to benefit from the launch today of Dispute Support , a new online dispute resolution information and referral tool. However, small businesses have told us it can be difficult to find alternative dispute resolution services and to work out which one is most suited to their needs. Dispute Support is a simple to use online tool to help small businesses to identify the most appropriate low cost dispute resolution service for their dispute.
Pacific Partnership makes a difference in Timor-Leste : Department of Defence
SNIPPET: Australian Defence Force (ADF) medical specialists and Army engineers are heading home after an intensive five weeks improving schools and hospitals and providing valuable medical training in Timor-Leste. The Australians have been working alongside Timor-Leste Defence Force (F-FDTL) and United States military personnel as part of Pacific Partnership 2014 (PP14). Australia is the only partner nation to have participated in every Pacific Partnership mission since its inception in 2006.
Australian Defence Force to be tested by air, land and sea in Pacific Rim exercise :Department of Defence
SNIPPET: The Australian Defence Force (ADF) is playing a key role in the world's largest maritime exercise taking place in and around the islands of Hawaii. Hosted by the United States Pacific Fleet, Exercise Rim of the Pacific 2014 (RIMPAC 14) will see 23 nations, 48 ships, six submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel - with approximately 970 ADF members from all three Services - taking part. This year's RIMPAC will see an increased Australian focus on air operations with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) leading the aviation component for the first time.
Enhancing Consumer Credit Protections
SNIPPET: The Government is improving consumer protections for Australians that borrow small amount loans, also known as 'payday' loans. Since 1 July 2013 there has been a cap on costs for small amount credit contracts, for loans less than $2,000 cash in hand to the consumer, with a maximum term of 12 months. To ensure that vulnerable consumers are not charged excessive fees, we have made improvements through the National Consumer Credit Protection Amendment (Small Amount Credit Contracts).
New report reveals the people of Australia
SNIPPET: Minister for Immigration and Border Protection. Key statistics of The People of Australia report reveal:. The People of Australia report is available on the Department of Immigration and Border Protection website.
SNIPPET: Today Australia, Malaysia and China announced the search area in the southern Indian Ocean, which represents the highest priority for future search efforts for missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370. Deputy Prime Minister Truss said the search for MH370 continues with a bathymetric survey—or mapping of the ocean floor—in the search area, to be followed by a comprehensive search of the sea floor. Malaysia and Australia are developing a Memorandum of Understanding to determine the areas of cooperation in the search and recovery activities, including financial arrangements.
Worldwide Interest in Westconnex M4 East
SNIPPET: NSW Minister for Roads and Freight. 'The M4 East will adjoin the M4 Widening at Homebush and provide a tunnel extension along the Parramatta Road corridor. 'Pending planning approval, work will start on the M4 Widening early next year and then the following year for the M4 East.
Departmental Secretaries | Prime Minister of Australia
SNIPPET: The Governor-General today approved the reappointment of Mr Mike Mrdak as Secretary to the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development for a period of three years and the appointment of Ms Jane Halton PSM as Secretary of the Department of Finance for a period of five years. Ms Halton has been the Secretary of the Department of Health since 2002 and has made a substantial contribution to the development of health policy and programmes in Australia and internationally. I will announce arrangements for the Secretary of the Department of Health in the near future.
Governor-General appoints new Official Secretary | Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia
SNIPPET: The Governor-General, His Excellency General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd), has today in Council approved the appointment of Mr Mark Fraser LVO OAM as Official Secretary to the Governor-General. Mr Fraser has been Deputy Official Secretary to the Governor-General for the past five and a half years. As Deputy Official Secretary to the Governor-General, Mr Fraser has overseen the day-to-day management and administration of the Office, as well as acting as Official Secretary on numerous occasions.
School holiday care a family balancing act - Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS)
SNIPPET: The majority of Australian parents are adjusting their schedules and juggling work arrangements so they can care for children themselves during school holidays, new research by the Australian Institute of Family Studies has found. The study which analysed the school holiday arrangements of 8,000 children using the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children found that 93 per cent of Australian primary school children, between 6 and 11 years old were cared for by their parents during the previous year's school holidays. Overwhelmingly, children were most likely to have been looked after using a mix of family-centred arrangements, usually involving care by their mothers or grandparents and to a lesser extent by other relatives, such as older siblings over 18 years old, Dr Baxter said.
Cessation of the Dementia and Severe Behaviours Supplement
SNIPPET: Today I announce that I have taken the decision to cease the Dementia and Severe Behaviours Supplement. The previous government estimated that 2,000 people in residential care would be eligible for the Supplement. This Supplement is emblematic.
NSW government cost recovery decision to increase state water charges | ACCC
SNIPPET: The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has released its Final Decision on pricing for bulk water supplied by the State Water Corporation in the New South Wales Murray-Darling Basin (MDB) in the 2014-17 period. On 30 May this year the NSW government advised the ACCC that it will increase Murray Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) cost recovery from 1 July 2014, ACCC Chairman Rod Sims said. The ACCC recognises that Murray and Murrumbidgee irrigators may want to discuss the impact of the increase in charges with the NSW government.
Archival bonds with Indonesia set to 2019 National Archives of Australia
SNIPPET: Media release: Wednesday, 25 June 2014. The National Archives of Australia further strengthened connections with the Indonesian national archive, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on archives cooperation. The MoU was signed by Mr Mustari Irawan, Director-General of Arsip Nasional Republik Indonesia and Mr David Fricker, Director-General of the National Archives of Australia on 17 June at ANRI headquarters.
Privacy breach: 254,000 Australian online dating profiles hacked
SNIPPET: The Australian Privacy Commissioner, Timothy Pilgrim, has found that Cupid Media Pty Ltd (Cupid) breached the Privacy Act 1988 by failing to take reasonable steps to secure the personal information held on its dating websites. In January 2013, hackers gained unauthorised access to Cupid webservers and stole the personal information of approximately 254,000 Australian Cupid site users. The Commissioner noted Cupid's collaborative and cooperative approach in working with the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) during the investigation, as well as the significant remedial steps taken by Cupid in response to the data breach.
SNIPPET: The Chief of the Defence Force, General David Hurley, and the Chief of the Defence Force designate, Air Marshal Mark Binskin, have confirmed that following the change of command, Defence will continue to address cases of abuse and misconduct at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) during the 1980s and 1990s. Defence invites any person who has suffered abuse at ADFA during the 80s and 90s to contact Defence in order to seek information about available support services or what action Defence may be able to take in relation to the abuse incident. Any person who has been subject to abuse at ADFA during the 1980s and 1990s and wishes to report the matter to Defence for consideration of any action can contact Defence agencies listed on the Defence internet and intranet websites by selecting the icon on the front page Report Abuse and Misconduct'.
National Water Initiative celebrates tenth birthday
SNIPPET: Media release from Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for the Environment, Simon Birmingham. Today marks the tenth anniversary of Australia's National Water Initiative (NWI), first signed at the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) meeting on 25 June 2004. The National Water Commission commemorated the NWI's tenth birthday by releasing an e-book which highlights significant benefits that have flowed to individual water users, communities, industries and the environment.
New Colombo Plan scholars announced
SNIPPET: Forty of Australia's best and brightest undergraduates have been awarded scholarships under the Australian Government's New Colombo Plan which gives them the opportunity to live, study and gain work experience in Japan, Indonesia, Singapore or Hong Kong in 2014. The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon Julie Bishop MP, said the New Colombo Plan is a flagship program of the Australian Government that provides scholarships to students to study at leading universities in the region and offers short term work placements to provide industry experience, whilst learning about another culture, developing a second language and fostering friendships that will last a lifetime. Tonight I am pleased to join the Governor-General and New Colombo Plan Patron His Excellency General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd), to award forty inaugural scholarships under our pilot program and announce the New Colombo Plan Fellows for 2014, Ms Bishop said.
Opening the inaugural Australia-Mexico Dialogue
SNIPPET: The inaugural Australia-Mexico Second Track Dialogue in Canberra is an exciting opportunity to enhance our bilateral relationship. I welcome the participation of Mexico's senior foreign affairs official, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, Carlos de Icaza. Australian investment in Mexico has increased 20-fold in the last decade, to $5.3 billion in 2013. Mexico is Australia's largest trading partner in Latin America, with $2.5 billion in merchandise trade in 2013. This will increase with Mexico's package of ambitious reforms in key sectors, particularly energy.
New generation of Australian passports released
SNIPPET: A new series of Australian passport has been released with innovative security features that make it even more difficult to forge. The P series is printed using the same technologies as Australian banknote. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is progressively issuing the P series passports to new applicants.
SNIPPET: Australia's health system is facing sharply rising costs and a growing number of demands, according to a new report released on 25 June 2014. PDF printable version of Rising Cost of Good Health (PDF 286 KB). The biennial Australia's Health report, compiled by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare is the most comprehensive analysis of the health of Australians and their health system.
Government Funds National Strategy to Target Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
SNIPPET: The Australian Government will provide $9.2 million to the National Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Action Plan to address the harmful impact of FASD on children and families.
General Sir John Monash Wartime Papers | Prime Minister of Australia
SNIPPET: The Centenary of Anzacwill mark a Century of Service, encompassing all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations in which Australians have been involved. The First World War was the crucible that forged our nation and General Sir John Monash was one of the war's truly outstanding commanders. During my recent visit to Villers-Bretonneux, I announced the Sir John Monash Interpretive Centre will open on the site that Monash and his fellow soldiers chose to dedicate to their comrades' service and sacrifice.
Tribunal new website to go live on 21 July - News - National Native Title Tribunal
SNIPPET: Over the past few months the Tribunal has been working on developing a new website. The Tribunal's new website is due to go live on. There are a number of new features of the site that will be available to you, including:.
ACCC allows NSW poultry growers to collectively bargain | ACCC
SNIPPET: The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has granted authorisation to enable members of the NSW Farmers' Association who grow chicken, turkey and duck meat, to collectively bargain with processors. Under the collective bargaining arrangements, poultry growers will form common interest grower groups' to collectively bargain the terms and conditions of contracts with the relevant poultry processor. Under existing New South Wales legislation, chicken and turkey growers can currently collectively bargain with processors.
Meeting with the National Imams Consultative Forum
SNIPPET: Today I met with the National Imams Consultative Forum as part of the Australian Government's ongoing commitment to work with community leaders to counter violent extremism and radicalisation.. I thank the Forum for inviting me to open today's workshop in Canberra. It was a valuable opportunity for leaders of the Islamic faith in Australia, academia and government to come together to share experiences and perspectives on community safety, radicalisation and violent extremism. It is understandable that the conflict in Syria and the ISIL insurgency in Iraq have evoked strong emotions in Australian communities. Many Australians have close ties to the region, including family and friends directly affected by the conflict. However, it is illegal under Australian law for any person in Australia to provide any kind of support to any armed group in Syria or Iraq.
Minister confirms AFP's first extradition from Germany for people smuggling offences
SNIPPET: Minister for Justice Michael Keenan today confirmed the Australian Federal Police (AFP) had reached a significant milestone in a three-and-a-half-year operation with the arrest of a man alleged to have smuggled people into Australia. The 42-year-old man was formally charged last night in Perth following his extradition from Germany to Australia yesterday. This is the first extradition from Germany to Australia for people smuggling offences and I acknowledge the work undertaken by AFP, the German authorities and INTERPOL in this matter.
$22 million boost to Teach for Australia | Department of Education
SNIPPET: Tips for searching this site. The Minister for Education the Hon Christopher Pyne MP announced an increase of $22million in funding for the Teach for Australia programme. More information about the programme is available on the Teach for Australia website.
Implementing the Federal Government's dementia research boost
SNIPPET: Sixty of Australia's leading dementia experts made a commitment today to ensure that the government's $200 million dementia research boost would make a lasting difference in the prevention, treatment and management of dementia for all Australians. In a meeting hosted by the National Health and Medical Research Council, research leaders, community advocates and federal and state government representatives presented ideas on how Australia could best direct its research efforts in dementia. The $200 million includes funding for the NHMRC National Institute for Dementia Research as well as large scale research projects and funding to build the dementia research workforce, including $26 million of Australian Research Council funding.
New vessel to help protect Australia's borders
SNIPPET: Minister for Immigration and Border Protection. Minister for Immigration and Border Protection, the Hon Scott Morrison today attended the official naming ceremony of the Australian Customs and Border Protection Vessel (ACV) Thaiyak which will help secure Australia's borders. The vessel will be used to:.
Online training records on the way
SNIPPET: The Australian Government is delivering more improvements to the skills and training system to ensure students can move more easily from training into paid jobs that boost national productivity. From this date, students will be able to apply for their unique number and training providers will be supplying updated information to the national vocational education and training (VET) data collection. It will also make it easier for training providers and Australian businesses to share training information.
Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 1/7/2014: click on Logo.
To contact Julian: editor@scotlandisland.org.au
Plastic Free July - it's as easy as this!
FUND RAISING STALLS FOR MONA VALE HOSPITAL AUXILIARY FOR THE FIRST HALF OF 2014
July 4th: Stall, Centro Warriewood, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft
July 5th: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft
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.
Australia Post commemorates centenary of domestic air mail - 25 June 2014
The sky's the limit for aviation enthusiasts and stamp collectors, with Australia Post's latest stamp issue commemorating the centenary of Australia's first domestic air mail flight.
Australia Post Philatelic Manager, Michael Zsolt said the centenary of domestic air mail was an aviation milestone and one that also highlighted the vital role air mail has played to help keep people and communities connected.
"The development of aviation greatly influenced transport and communications in the early 20th century, and in a country such as Australia it helped overcome the tyranny of distance. We are pleased to release this commemorative stamp issue, marking a significant milestone in postal and aviation history," Mr Zsolt said.
This year will mark 100 years since French aviator Maurice Guillaux (1883-1917) made the first air mail flight in Australia. Guillaux left Melbourne on 16 July and arrived in Sydney on 18 July 1914. The flying time was just 9¼ hours, with seven stops en route. On his arrival, Guillaux was welcomed by Governor-General Sir Ronald Munro Ferguson.
Guillaux's flight was, at the time, the longest air mail flight worldwide. His Bleriot XI monoplane was constructed of wood and canvas held together with wire and glue and powered by an engine of around 50 horse power. The modest cargo included 1,785 souvenir postcards, official letters, a small number of parcels and other items.
A re-enactment of the first domestic air mail flight is planned to take place on 12-14 July 2014. It is being coordinated by the Aviation Historical Society of Australia (NSW).
Jo Muré of the Australia Post Design Studio designed the stamps, which are based on Kevin McKay's watercolour sketches made during the development of the 1964 50th Anniversary of the First Air Mail Service stamp issue. The illustrations are held in the Australia Post National Philatelic Collection.
The Australia Post first domestic air mail flight stamp issue comprises one domestic base-rate stamp (70c) and one international-rate stamp ($2.60). The prestige booklet accompanying the stamp issue covers the history of Australia's air mail service. This collectable product includes blocks of stamps exclusive to this product as well as the new commemorative air mail stickers.
The stamp issue's associated products include a minisheet, first day cover, stamp pack, maxicard set of two, prestige souvenir cover, and a postal and numismatic cover. The 100th Anniversary of First Air Mail stamp issue is available from 1 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.
Articles This Week
Seniors Exercise Class Sets A World Record in Mona Vale’s Village Park
RPAYC Youth Sailors To Mix It With the Best in the World by Damian Devine
The White Cockatoos of Charles Harpur – Father of Australian Poetry: For Children
Reflections by George Repin: GGANTIJA TEMPLES
Aquatics: Port Jackson Pleasure Fleets - 7 & 8 by LANYARD: Steam Yachts, Nights Under Barrenjoey and the Development of Classes in Racing Yachts
Pictures: A Week In Pittwater - June 2014
DIY Hints: Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 – Annual Hardware Trade Day & Hardware Expo 2014 - June 26th 12-6pm - great for renovators and trades people
Profile of the Week: June 2014 - Pittwater Ladies - Avalon Beach SLSC Master's Womens Boat Crew - The Antiques
History: June 2014 - Avalon Beach Clubhouses: The First Clubhouse, the dressing sheds that preceded it and the playgrounds, parks and town planning visions of Arthur Jabez Small + a few Extras.
Artist of the Month: June 2014 - Lucinda Rose - One of our regular contributors is a wonderfully inspiring young lady who is developing her artistic skills in a wide range of mediums. Currently studying Fine Arts at COFA, Lucinda also has a passion for people that finds expression through her works and through doing. In July this year she hopes to travel as part of the team of the Pittwater Friends of Soibada to continue works already begun.
Good-bye "St Peter": Sayonara to the man dubbed "Angel of the Northern Beaches"
Dr Peter Moore, Northern Beaches Palliative Care specialist, was recently farewelled by colleagues, associates and The Hon. Rob Stokes. For more than two decades he provided legendary service to thousands of patients, their carers and families.
From his head, Peter practiced Palliative Medicine with expansive knowledge, comprehensively honed skills and superb professionalism. From his heart he practiced it with dedication, embracing empathy, modesty and humour.
His consultations and collaborations produced optimal diagnoses and recommendations while clients' memories would be of comforting visits with a treasured friend.
Years of plaudits for Peter weave a mosaic of praise, admiration and gratitude.
From all in our community whose lives have been blessed and enhanced by knowing Peter, we say to him and his wife Ann, "Thank you. May retirement reap just and richly merited reward."
Jo-Ann Steeves
President
Friends of Northern Beaches Palliative Care branch United Hospital Auxiliaries NSW Inc
Dennise Adcock, representing her mother Cora Adcock with Dr.Peter Moore at official opening of Palliative Care Services Upgrades at Mona Vale Hospital, picture by A J Guesdon.
Funds To Drive Public Transport Improvements - 17 June 2014
Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes today welcomed the major investment in local public transport services outlined in the NSW Liberal Government’s State Budget.
As part of a $633 million package of transport improvements to be introduced throughout the northern beaches over the next 5 years, $125 million has been allocated towards the construction of a Bus Rapid Transit System linking Pittwater to the Sydney CBD.
This innovative project will see the introduction of high-frequency ‘turn up an go’ bus services travelling on dedicated and upgraded bus lanes between Mona Vale and the CBD at five minute intervals every weekday.
Almost $100 million has also been allocated to construct new commuter car parks and bus interchanges at key northern beaches locations, including Mona Vale, Warriewood and Narrabeen, to help support the BRT system.
“This is exactly the type of high-frequency public transport system our community has been screaming out for,” Rob Stokes said today.
“Getting more people out of their cars and onto fast and reliable public transport services will have benefits for everyone.
“The corridor between Mona Vale and the CBD is notoriously busy so it’s been vital to think outside the square and develop an innovative transport option.
“The lane improvements and interchanges that will accompany this project are equally important and will help deliver vastly improved transport services for local commuters.
“The work done by the NSW Government over the past 3 years to turn our State’s budget around means essential projects like this can now start to be funded.
“This is a generational project that will deliver benefits and opportunities for our entire community,” Rob Stokes said.
Extra Funds To Progress Mona Vale Road Upgrade - 17 June 2014
Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes today welcomed a further allocation of funds in today’s NSW Budget to progress the upgrade of Mona Vale Road.
Additional funds totalling more than $6 million have been allocated towards this key infrastructure project, including funds for the first stage of physical works scheduled to commence later this month.
The funding allocations include:
A further $3 million to continue project planning for the upgrade of the 3.1km eastern section of the corridor between Mona Vale and Ingleside;
A further $2 million to continue project planning for the upgrade of the 3.3km western section of the corridor between Ingleside and Terrey Hills; and
$1.25 million to commence construction on the first stage of road widening between Foley Street and Daydream Street at Mona Vale.
"This is essential funding that will ensure this enormous project continues to move forward,” Rob Stokes said today.
“This funding builds on previous budget allocations over recent years and will assist with the finalisation of geotechnical assessments and project designs.
“The funds to commence the first stage of the project later this month are the most significant and will start the ball rolling on this mammoth project.
“It’s pleasing to see our community’s voice being heard and the Mona Vale Road project continuing to be progressed,” Rob Stokes said.
Taking the Drop Supports Sea Shepherd
Taking the Drop are very pleased to announce that from this point on, all proceeds from sales viawww.vividpublishing.com.au/takingthedrop
will go to Sea Shepherd Australia. This includes our EBook and also 'print on demand'...
Sheree, Danielle, Deb and Jill.
Art Competition Opens to Celebrate Return of Imag_ne - 17 Jun 2014
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
Community Streamwatch Program
If you’d like to nurture your environmental know-how then Pittwater Council’s Coastal Environment Centre (CEC) is giving locals a great opportunity to boost their skills in understanding freshwater ecosystems.
Council is joining forces with Streamwatch to offer an exciting citizen science project, observing and collecting data from our local waterways.
The session will begin with an information day on Sunday 22 June at the Coastal Environment Centre from midday to 2:30pm.
As part of the Streamwatch group, locals can learn about freshwater ecosystems, assist with data collection and network with other groups from across Sydney.
Streamwatch groups will meet once a month at sites around Pittwater.
Volunteers would be involved in water quality testing, data recording and Macro Invertebrate (water bug) sampling.
Anyone with an interest in the local freshwater waterways should not miss out!
To register, visit www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/cec/streamwatch
Avalon Craft Cottage
To all our customers………
I know many of you will be very pleased to hear that we are busily getting organised for our next big show of the year. For the first and only time this year, we are heading off to Dee Why Grand for one week, Monday 23rd to Sunday 29th June.
As always, you can expect to see all the usual high quality craftwork that our members delight in doing …….and with a huge big space available this time each member will have room to really spread out and put in a larger display of work than usual. So more stock and more variety for you to choose from.
With winter well and truly upon us, we will be featuring our knitters this time; dozens of warm woollen scarves, hats, gloves, bed socks, children's jumpers & cardigans and beanies, plus colourful knitted hot water bottle covers.
And of course the babies are well looked after with hand-knitted or crocheted rugs, shawls and bootees plus beautifully embroidered singlets, socks and sleep-suits and really cute little toys.
Apart from that, as always, wonderful pottery, woodwork, silk painting, screen printing, hand-crafted cards, ceramics, jewellery, and brilliant patchwork quilts. So something for everyone.
For those of you on Facebook, please have a look at the Avalon Craft Cottage site. I have posted a lot of new photos, and it is a great way to keep up to date with the activities of the group, and any new items. And we would love a tick of approval……!
I have also recently listed the Craft Cottage on the new Enliven Pittwater site, a new 'app' easily downloaded on your smart-phone, another way to keep up to date with activities in the Pittwater area, free to download… just look for Avalon Craft Cottage under ' Events.'
So we hope to see many of the regular faces at Dee Why, and please tell your friends and if there is anything else you need to know, or if you are wanting to order a particular item, call me.
Regards
Maureen Darcy-Smith 9999 3703
Timor Leste - Pittwater Friends of Soibada
Published – June 18, 2014 – short segment produced to be part of a longer documentary
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
Southern Cross Wildlife Care Fundraiser
Fund Raising Auction at Joan Pearson's place, 4pm, 28 June. 3 course meal plus drinks with a presentation by Dr Ralph on wildlife treatment. SCWC merchandise will also be on sale. Come along and meet other friendly folk and learn something new. Cost is $75.00 each, booking essential. Call Joan on 9960 2229
FUND RAISING STALLS FOR MONA VALE HOSPITAL AUXILIARY FOR THE FIRST HALF OF 2014
July 4th: Stall, Centro Warriewood, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft
July 5th: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft
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
Snow on the Way C/- Bureau of Meteorology
Keen to hit the slopes? Snow’s on its way with this season's first big fall expected early next week!
It’s easy to check the weather on the slopes with MetEye and our mobile website: http://bom.ws/yf4hP Australian Alps forecasts:http://bom.ws/yf43T
Johnson Brothers Mitre10 - Trade Day 2014
Annual Trade Day with an afternoon of never to be repeated prices, giveaways and more
Thursday, June 26 at 12:00pm - 6:00pm: 51 Bassett Street Mona Vale, NSW, Australia
See: www.facebook.com/johnsonbroshardware
Kiama Downs Wins Third Straight IRB Premiership - Wednesday 18 June 2014
Kiama Downs SLSC has cemented its dynasty by taking out the 2014 NSW IRB Premiership Series for the third year in a row at Woonona over the weekend. Kiama Downs led the Premiership from start to finish this year, winning all four individual rounds for a dominant performance that will unlikely be matched for quite some time.
Catherine Hill Bay finished second on a count-back beating out Caves Beach who finished third. South Maroubra (4th) and Queenscliff (5th) rounded out the top five.
Kiama Downs SLSC Team Manager, Steven Guy, says the team were absolutely thrilled to win the Premiership again.
“The team is definitely pumped up after the Premiership win, and there were a lot of smiling faces after the presentation at Woonona. As a small club with limited resources, we really appreciate the new motor awarded to us for winning the premiership series, and we will certainly put it to good use.
“While I can understand why some people would not be attracted to IRB Racing - with the early starts, late finishes, sometimes freezing conditions and a lot of wear and tear on the body - there is a certain type of person who can become addicted to the thrills and spills and camaraderie that the sport can inspire.
“Luckily for us Kiama Downs seems to be able to attract and maintain this type of person through good training, development and a focus on fun,” said Mr Guy.
It didn't all go smoothly for the Premiership Champions with several of their boats experiencing engine troubles on the day.
“We ran into some troubles and I would like to thank the clubs (there were several) who assisted us over the weekend. We had a bad run of gear failures during the finals on Saturday, and clubs offered gear without being asked and with no hesitation.
“I think this epitomizes the comradarie in the IRB fraternity and without this kind of exemplary sportsmanship shown by other clubs, we would not have won round 4,” said Mr Guy.
SLSNSW Surf Sports Manager, Shane Knight, congratulated all the athletes and thanked this years host surf clubs.
“That was another fantastic weekend of racing to wrap up a sensational season for the IRB Premiership Series. Each year we seem to be getting a higher calibre of racing from an ever expanding roster of surf clubs which is exciting for the sport in NSW.
“I would just like to thank the host surf clubs Collaroy, Batemans Bay, Terrigal and Woonona and their respective councils for helping put on a fantastic Premiership Series. Now all eyes look towards the State Championships in South West Rocks where the state champions will be crowned,” said Mr Knight.
The NSW IRB State Championships will be held from the 27-29 June at South West Rocks on the state’s Mid North Coast.
To view the 2014 Premiership Series final standings please clickhere.
Above: the Queenscliff crew. Picture by Rachel Fenwick Images
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.
Australian children and adolescents increasingly use psychotropic drugs:new study - 19 June 2014
More Australians, particularly children and adolescents, are using psychotropic drugs, a University of Sydney study examining prescribing patterns shows.
The study examined trends across a four-year period from the start of 2009. Its results show Australia has one of the highest rates of psychotropic medication use in the world.
Psychotropic drugs are used to treat mood and behaviour disorders and include antidepressants, antipsychotics and ADHD medications.
The most rapid percentage increases over the study period were for antidepressant and antipsychotic drugs use by children aged 10-14 (35.5 percent and 49.1 percent respectively).
"While antidepressants can be very effective in treating depression in children and adolescents, most authorities recommend non-drug approaches be trialled first, especially where symptoms are of mild to moderate severity," said Emily Karanges, a PhD candidate from the University's School of Psychology and lead author of a paper on the findings just published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry.
School of Psychology researchers, led by Professor Iain McGregor, note it is well established that antidepressants are less effective in depressed children and adolescents than in adults, and that there is an increased risk of self-harm and suicidal thinking when these drugs are first given to them.
In addition, very few of these drugs are comprehensively studied for their effects in children and adolescents before coming onto the market.
"We are also concerned about the increasing prescription of antidepressants of the SNRI type in Australia," said Karanges. Serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors or SNRIs treat depression and other mood disorders.
"These tend to have more complex side effects than other antidepressants and may be more prone to causing agitation. There are few, if any, compelling reasons for SNRI antidepressants to be prescribed over other antidepressant types yet they have been very heavily marketed in recent years," said Karanges.
The study also showed that among adults, females outnumber males in their use of antidepressants by a margin of almost two to one.
Antipsychotic drug use jumped more than 20 percent across the study period. Antipsychotics were traditionally used to treat schizophrenia, but overall prevalence of this illness has been stable for many years.
The substantial increase in their use shows they are increasingly prescribed for problems such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, disruptive behaviour, dementia, depression and insomnia.
"This is a major concern. Antipsychotics are strong drugs with serious side effects such as obesity, diabetes and sedation, and these tend to be worse in young people. Despite this, these drugs are increasingly used in situations where other treatments may be safer and more appropriate," said Karanges.
Use of the main ADHD medication Ritalin jumped 35 percent in Australia over four years. The authors detected trends suggesting that increasing numbers of Australians are continuing to use ADHD medications beyond childhood and well into adulthood. This may reflect the increasing popularity in the diagnosis of 'Adult ADHD'.
"We need to have a national debate about what is driving this phenomenon," said Professor McGregor. "Why are we so reliant on meds for our mental wellbeing? We also need to debate whether the benefits of medication outweigh the hazards, particularly in children and in those suffering only mild to moderate psychological distress."
SHOROC Mayors Meet Prime Minister and Speaker to Talk Infrastructure for Northern Beaches & North Shore
L-R: Cr Jacqueline Townsend Mayor Pittwater, Cr Jean Hay AM Mayor Manly, Cr Michael Regan Mayor Warringah, Cr Roy Bendall Deputy Mayor Mosman, The Hon Tony Abbott Prime Minister and The Hon Bronwyn Bishop Speaker of the House
SHOROC Mayors and General Managers met this week with Prime Minister The Hon Tony Abbott MP and Speaker of the House The Hon Bronwyn Bishop MP to discuss major issues for the Northern Beaches and North Shore.
The Prime Minister welcomed the Manly, Mosman, Pittwater and Warringah Mayors and General Managers into the Cabinet Anteroom for a positive and productive meeting.
The Mayors outlined the major priorities for the region under SHOROC’s Corporate Plan. http://shoroc.com/annual-reports-corporate-plan-policies/
Key issues discussed included the newly announced plans for a Bus Rapid Transit system and feasibility planning for a Northern Beaches tunnel, as well as the timetable for delivering faster broadband. http://shoroc.com/mayors-on-board-with-new-633-million-northern-beaches-transport-plan/
“The Prime Minister and Speaker are big advocates for better public transport and reducing road congestion and I’m confident there is good Commonwealth support for this much needed infrastructure,” said SHOROC President and Pittwater Mayor, Cr Jacqueline Townsend.
“Faster broadband will support local businesses and create jobs.
“It’s important we have a rollout timetable for the Northern Beaches and North Shore so that we can plan for its introduction.
“The other key priority discussed was the need to maintain Federal funding for vital social services for youth employment,” Cr Townsend said.
The Mayors and General Managers were in Canberra for the National General Assembly of Local Government Conference and Cr Townsend says it makes a difference when you can make the case for the region to Federal members personally.
The Australian Local Government Association is the national voice of local government, representing 560 councils across the country.
In structure, ALGA is a federation of state and territory local government associations. Since 2001, membership has included the Government of the Australian Capital Territory (uniquely in Australia, the ACT Government combines both state and local government functions).
The 2014 NGA was held in Canberra from 15 - 18 June.
See: http://alga.asn.au/
Emergency Aspiration Pump Needed
We don't like to ask, but our ancient suction machine (fluid aspirator pump) finally gave up on us... If anyone knows where we can buy one at a good discount or get a second-hand one, we'd love to hear from you. Thank you
Southern Cross Wildlife Care
Phone: (02) 9982 1751, Email: lindystacker@yahoo.com.au
Busy Season Across NSW For ALS Lifeguards - Tue 17 Jun 2014
The Australian Lifeguard Service (ALS) has concluded its patrols in NSW for the 2013/2014 lifeguarding season which saw more than 4.2 million people visit the Service’s 18 patrolled regions.
The ALS employ more than 350 lifeguards during peak season running lifeguard services in 14 councils, two resorts and two National Parks across New South Wales.
While beach attendance was slightly down across the state by just over 1% compared to the previous season, a number of regions recorded increases in beach goers.
This was led by the Royal National Park which recorded a 2.5x increase on beach goers compared to last season. Richmond Valley Council which recorded a 61% increase in attendance was also significant. Ballina Shire Council recorded a 56% increase while Pittwater Council was 15% higher compared to last season. Tweed Shire Council also increased by 9%.
Rescues across the state have also risen by 6.9% with Bega Valley Shire Council recording the highest number with 219.
While rescues have increased this season, first aid has dropped significantly with Lifeguards treating 4366 first aid cases across the state compared with 7383 from last season.
Lifeguards also performed 223,806 preventative actions. Preventative actions include instructing swimmers to move out of dangerous areas or ensuring they swim between the flags.
The ALS is the largest provider of professional lifeguard services in the country. Australian Lifeguard Service NSW Coordinator Brent Manieri said local councils and National Parks have been extremely supportive of the lifeguard service this season and praised lifeguards efforts.
“Once again the Australian Lifeguard Service has completed an extremely successful season where a wide variety of conditions were experienced by our Lifeguards. The professionalism that our Lifeguards continue to exhibit and the enthusiasm they show for the job means the public were vigilantly watched and provided with the highest service.
“It should be noted that Lifeguards volunteered their time on certain occasions to watch over large crowds of people, even when their shift had finished ensuring there were no incidents and the public were kept safe. It is this sort of dedication that makes working with our Lifeguards such a joy.
“These councils as well as National Parks have once again been very supportive this season and we look forward to further improving beach safety and working collaboratively with them leading into next season,” said Mr Manieri.
Many NSW councils have realised the benefit of ensuring a total service provision, as the Australian Lifeguard Service integrates with Surf Life Saving’s volunteer patrol structure, state-wide support operations network, 24-hour emergency callout system and strategically located Westpac Rescue helicopter services.
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.
Wildlife Witness App – C/- Australian Federal Police
Taronga Zoo's male Sun Bear, Mr Hobbs, started life as a cub kept by a Cambodian restaurant, destined to be sold as bear paw soup. He was rescued when an Australian traveller came across him.
If you're travelling overseas, you can now use your smartphone to report possible illegal wildlife trade, using an app developed by the Taronga Conservation Society Australia.
The free ‘Wildlife Witness’ app enables users to report suspicious activity by taking a photo, pinning the exact location of an incident and sending these important details to wildlife authorities such as TRAFFIC in South-east Asia.
Don't leave home without it!
The app is available on both Android and iPhone platforms:
http://taronga.org.au/news/2014-04-09/taronga-app-empowers-travellers-report-illegal-wildlife-trade
Avalon Tattoo - 2014 - the 9th annual celebration of youth and community
Warren Young, David James and Stephen Nolan Honoured with Queens Birthday Honours
Aquatics: RMYC Multihull Division Celebrates its 21st Year at Annual 2013-14 Prize-giving by Alan Brand
Pictures: Avalon Tattoo 2014
Profile of the Week: June 2014 - Pittwater Ladies Beryl Driver - A lifelong love of cars and children, coupled with an ethos of giving to others and decades of backing that up with action!
History: June 2014 - Avalon Beach Clubhouses: The First Clubhouse, the dressing sheds that preceded it and the playgrounds, parks and town planning visions of Arthur Jabez Small + a few Extras.
Artist of the Month: June 2014 - Lucinda Rose - One of our regular contributors is a wonderfully inspiring young lady who is developing her artistic skills in a wide range of mediums. Currently studying Fine Arts at COFA, Lucinda also has a passion for people that finds expression through her works and through doing. In July this year she hopes to travel as part of the team of the Pittwater Friends of Soibada to continue works already begun.
Applications Open For Community Building Partnership Program - 10 June 2014
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.
Proudly Presents Multi Award Winning Pianist
Alexey Yemtsov
Back by popular demand. Performing
Chopin’s Fantaisie in F minor
Ballades no. 3 & 4, Grande Valse op.42.
Prokofiev’s Sonata no. 6 and the Piano Reduction of Romeo & Juliet
A sparkling wine High Tea will be served after the performance.
Sunday 15th June 2014 at 2.30pm: Loquat Valley Anglican Prep School, 1977 Pittwater Road Bayview
Single tickets $20, School Students $10 or free when accompanied by an adult. Tickets available at the door.
Enq. 9999-1937, 9972-3556, 0407-441-213. Doors open at 2pm
Pittwater Lady Releases New Book on Adapting to Retirement
My Retirement Gap Year -Adapting to Retirement
By Dr Frances Black
This is a baby-boomer book, a non-fiction, memoir involving a journey, which resulted in unexpected personal growth, helping the author adapt to retirement.
Shortly after Dr Frances Black retired from general practice, she found herself travelling the world alone. This was an unexpected development, which occurred when her 29-year-old son, Nick decided to take a year’s break from work. Nick’s plan was to buy himself a sailing boat in Germany and sail it home. Frances Black's husband, John was keener to join their son for longer periods of the voyage than she was. He suggested that she choose something that she would like to do as an alternative. She thought it was important to select activities, which her husband would not like to share. This decision found her in Spain learning Spanish for the first time in her life. Not everything went to plan, which provided an assortment of challenges. She felt the time she spent travelling alone helped transition her toward her retirement. This book is based on a diary she kept during her unusual year.
Dr Black has a background in medical journalism as well, as clinical work. She has written a self-help medical guide, called ask Dr Fran. She spent 15 years writing for various magazines, both for the public and the medical profession. She has also written a family history and two plays. She plans to continue writing, experimenting with different genres. Dr Black received second prize in a short story competition. She has also worked for many years presenting both in radio and on television
Dr. Black has prepared a presentation on adapting to retirement, which serves as an introduction to the book. She is available for presentations on the subject. Contact email
The book is available as both an e-book and print on demand. It can be purchased from the following places: HERE
Don't Fall for this Scam!
Be aware! We have been advised by a number of residents recently about a company currently door knocking in the district offering to trim or remove trees without the need for Council approval. A "good price" is offered to carry out the work immediately in consideration of payment of a deposit to meet "upfront costs". All of this is in breach of Australian Consumer Law which makes it illegal, in the case of soliciting work, to request a deposit in advance or carry out any work within a mandatory 10-day cooling off period - to say nothing about Council's requirements.
We have been contacted by residents again this week regarding a man cold calling at homes in Pittwater offering to cut down trees etc. On checking this man is listed on Dept. of Fair Tradings website as a serial conman.
DO NOT GIVE THIS MAN ANY MONEY!!!!!!!!
Residents should also know that Council requirements in some cases requires aborists reports: Anyone wanting to carry out work in relation to trees must refer to Control B4.22 Preservation of Trees or Bushland Vegetation in the Pittwater 21 Development Control Plan (DCP), and should consult Council for information before proceeding. This includes proposed works on trees covered by Control B4.22 that are overhanging from a neighbouring property.
As per the control, some tree species are exempt, trees listed as exempt can be removed without consent from Council. Trees may be pruned by up to 10% once in every 12 calendar months in accordance with AS4373-2007 Pruning of Amenity Tree without council consent. However, for removal and other work, an application must be completed.
See all Pittwater Council guidelines at: HERE
Mona Vale Winter Solstice SwimSunday June 22
Entries only online. For entries click here.
6th outing of this event which, despite the time of year, does not run in cold water. In mid-late June, water generally still is around the early 20s, which is eminently comfortable, even for those wusses whose first resort is to the wettie. The air shouldn't be too cool either, if the sun shines. And this year, this swim actually runs on the solstice (June 21-22).
Sydney is a terrific location for winter swimming, for the water generally doesn't get very cold at all, and the coolest over winter generally doesn't arrive until late July. Indeed, our coldest water in recent years has come in those spasmodic cold spells that have wafted in in high summer.
Just four divisions in this event: Wetties (Wetsuits) and Newd (non-wetties), Male and Female. Free parking; Free soup kitchen dispensing Mrs June Dibbs's (a regular correspondent to The Sydney Morning Herald) minestrone. Register online or by mail only. There will be no new entries on race day.
Start time is 10am, but be there by 9am.
Surf Life Saving NSW Trains 250,000 in First Aid - Friday, 13 Jun 2014
Surf Life Saving NSW (SLSNSW) has reached a significant milestone by training its 250,000th person in first aid this month.
SLSNSW’s registered training arm, theAustralian Lifesaving Academy (ALA), started in 2004 and has since grown exponentially, fast becoming one of the biggest first aid and CPR registered training organisations in NSW.
The ALA exists to develop practices in education, prevention, emergency care and rescue to ultimately meet our vision of 'zero preventable deaths and injuries on NSW beaches'.
However the ALA’s first aid training is being delivered far beyond the beach and surf clubs with over 60 qualified trainers delivering courses at schools, work places and sporting clubs across the state.
To date, the ALA has trained more than 104,000 in CPR, over 83,000 in first aid, 26,000 in Emergency Care, more than 26,000 in Accredited Asthma & Anaphylaxis and taught basic first aid and resuscitation to over 6000 junior school students.
Surf Life Saving NSW Commercial Operations Manager, Dan Gaffney, says that since the Academy’s inception in 2004, Surf Life Saving NSW has quickly established itself as one of the state’s leading first aid training organisations.
“This is a significant milestone for the ALA and one to be celebrated by all involved and could not have been achieved without the focus and drive of all our Academy team members.
"That being said, there is much more work to be done to ensure that all of the public know at least basic first aid and CPR skills. Whether you are a parent, grandparent, involved in sport or own a swimming pool everyone should learn these skills and update them regularly.
"You are the one most likely to need to perform first aid on friends and loved ones, so we urge everyone to enrol in a first aid course and prepare yourself in case that time comes,” said Mr Gaffney.
Offering a wide variety of training courses from Spinal Management to CPR; the ALA caters for anybody interested in learning vital lifesaving skills. To register for a course or to find out more information please visit the first aid courses section of our website.
Old Mal Day
See one of Australia's largest collections of old mals and memorabilia on display.
At Bennett Surfboards
180 Harbord Rd, Brookvale, New South Wales, Australia 2100
Shift Change of French Lighthouse Keepers - June 9, 2014
Guringai Music Showcase featuring Christine Anu, Evie J Willie & Marcus Corowa - Friday, 20 June 2014
DOORS OPEN at 6PM Enjoy an amazing night with one of Australia's most successful indigenous performers at Lizotte's Dee Why. She'll be joined by the inspiring soul singer and songwriter, Evie J Willie and X-Factor 2012 runner-up, Jason Owen for what will be an amazing night of great music and great food. This event will be a true celebration of the Guringai Festival 2014.
Founded in 2001, the Guringai Festival aims to raise awareness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in the Northern Sydney region. The festival starts on Sorry Day 26 May and goes through to the end of NAIDOC Week, the second week in July each year. The festival involves 11 councils and numerous reconciliation and community groups. Events include workshops, art exhibitions, performances, films and talks.
Tickets $35.00 HERE
Crowd Funding Target reached in record time!!!
Thank you SO much to all of the wonderful people who pledged a financial contribution during the last four days to the Pozible crowd funding campaign to help us pay for new fire safety measures that we have to implement before we can start inviting you in to our home again! Your remarkable generosity has meant that the project's target of $8,000 was reached in just over 3 days!!
We had originally thought about setting the target to the full $16,000 that we are going to need to implement the required fire safety measures but was talked out of that by the really helpful people at Pozible who didn't think we'd raise that much money in the limited time that we had for the project (5 weeks). Well, I guess you showed them! :-)
There is now a chance that by the time the project ends on 12th July the full cost of the works will be covered which would be really terrific - especially considering that in the not too distant future we are going to have to find an additional $16,000-$18,000 to install a wheelchair accessible toilet! :-(
Apart from the very helpful financial assistance you are giving us, it is also incredibly touching to know that so many people appreciate and value what we are doing with Humph Hall and are keen to see it continue. So keen, in fact, that you are prepared to contribute your own money to ensure that it does!
So please, if you can afford to do so, go to the site and pledge what you can and use your email/Facebook/Twitter accounts to encourage others to do likewise. Just tell them about it and send them this link: pozible.com/humph
Please act quickly - Apparently it is important for the success of these crowd-funding campaigns for them to begin with some momentum so, if you intend to add your support and make a pledge, please don't put it off - do it today!
How Pozible works
PayPal - In order to be able to pledge, you will need to 'join' Pozible and establish some mechanism for paying. I suggest you use PayPal. If you aren't already set up with a PayPal account it is something you should seriously consider doing as it allows you to conduct transactions over the Internet without having to expose your credit card details on every occasion.
Choose a Reward - Once you have joined Pozible you should go to the 'Help Humph Hall' project and pledge a donation at one of the seven available levels which range from $17 to $1,000 - each of which comes with a reward! :-)
We look forward to thanking you all in person next time you come here. Please identify who you are so that we can ensure that you receive your 'rewards'!
Thanks again . . .
Wayne & Gial
Coming Up at Humph Hall
Ann & Charlie Heymann (US) - Saturday 19th July
3pm: Workshop, 7pm: Concert
Historical and traditional Gaelic harp, song & more. Ann and Charlie will be visiting Australian in July and Early August 2014 to present their work at theWorld Harp Congressin Sydney.
More Information
If you have any questions or would like to help but don't want to do so through Pozible, please don't hesitate to contact me: (02) 9939 8802
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
Dr Howard Ralph - Wombat-feeding between surgical procedures - Saturday 14th of May, 2014
Southern Cross Wildlife Care Fundraiser
Fund Raising Auction at Joan Pearson's place, 4pm, 28 June. 3 course meal plus drinks with a presentation by Dr Ralph on wildlife treatment. SCWC merchandise will also be on sale. Come along and meet other friendly folk and learn something new. Cost is $75.00 each, booking essential. Call Joan on 9960 2229
Community Streamwatch Program
If you’d like to nurture your environmental know-how then Pittwater Council’s Coastal Environment Centre (CEC) is giving locals a great opportunity to boost their skills in understanding freshwater ecosystems.
Council is joining forces with Streamwatch to offer an exciting citizen science project, observing and collecting data from our local waterways.
The session will begin with an information day on Sunday 22 June at the Coastal Environment Centre from midday to 2:30pm.
As part of the Streamwatch group, locals can learn about freshwater ecosystems, assist with data collection and network with other groups from across Sydney.
Streamwatch groups will meet once a month at sites around Pittwater.
Volunteers would be involved in water quality testing, data recording and Macro Invertebrate (water bug) sampling.
Anyone with an interest in the local freshwater waterways should not miss out!
To register, visit www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/cec/streamwatch
FUND RAISING STALLS FOR MONA VALE HOSPITAL AUXILIARY FOR THE FIRST HALF OF 2014
June 20th: Stall, hospital foyer, knitting, craft, baking, Bric-a-brac 9am – 3pm
July 4th: Stall, Centro Warriewood, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft
July 5th: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft
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
ACCC calls for comment on Elgas’ proposed acquisition of Kleenheat’s east coast LPG business
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has released a Statement of Issues outlining competition concerns with the proposed acquisition by Elgas Limited of Wesfarmers Kleenheat Gas Pty Ltd’s east coast LPG business. Elgas is a member of the BOC Group of companies, which is owned by the Linde Group, an international gases and engineering company. Kleenheat is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Wesfarmers Limited. The three major distributors of non-automotive LPG on the east coast are Elgas, Kleenheat and Origin. These three distributors have a combined east-coast share of approximately 90 per cent. In certain regional areas the only distributors are Elgas and Kleenheat, or dealers supplied exclusively by them. LPG distributors acquire wholesale LPG from oil refineries, oil and gas processors, and import terminals. Elgas owns Australia’s largest LPG import terminal, the Elgas Cavern in Sydney.
“The ACCC’s preliminary view is that the proposed acquisition raises significant competition issues for the distribution of LPG to customers in a number of different markets,” ACCC Chairman Rod Sims said. “Market inquiries have identified concerns that the transaction would remove Kleenheat as a significant competitor to Elgas and Origin.”
At a national level, there have been concerns raised that the proposed acquisition would remove Kleenheat as the only competitor to Elgas that has the ability to distribute non-automotive LPG, including leisure cylinders, to large national customers on competitive terms.
“The ACCC is concerned that the proposed acquisition would leave customers vulnerable to price increases,” Mr Sims said.
Market inquiries suggest that barriers to new entry and expansion by existing market participants are already high and would increase further as a result of the proposed acquisition. Some parties are particularly concerned about access to a competitive source of non-automotive LPG, given the importance of the Elgas Cavern. Concerns have been raised that the proposed acquisition would give Elgas additional incentive to deny its downstream rivals access to competitively priced wholesale LPG.
The Statement of Issues seeks further information on the competition issues which have arisen from the ACCC's review to date and is available on the public register.
The ACCC invites further submissions from interested parties in response to the Statement of Issues by 26 June 2014. The ACCC's proposed final decision date is 24 July 2014.
Submissions can be sent to the ACCC at mergers@accc.gov.au
Doggy Do's and Don'ts with Steve Austin
Is your dog a scally-wag? Does he run away from you when you call his name, or repeatedly get his head stuck in the kitchen rubbish bin? Or perhaps he is a bully to other dogs? If your pooch needs a ‘talking to’, then it’s time to meet dog trainer extraordinaire Steve Austin.
Pittwater Council has engaged elite dog trainer Steve Austin to help with your issues. Steve will be available Sunday 22 June for a FREE session at Rowland Reserve from 9am-12. It’ll be a fun and informative morning where he can answer all your doggy-related questions; particularly when it comes to obedience.
Steve realised at the age of 13 he had a special way with dogs as he trained his dog Sooty to entertain crowds outside the pub.
These days Steve is often invited to lecture and help at zoos around the world. He’s also a regular at American Law Enforcement Agencies and was asked to train dogs in bomb detection at the Mount Everest Kennel Club in Kathmandu. Steve also trained the first ever truffle detector dogs.
Most recently Steve was chosen to head the NSW Emergency Volunteer Canine Fire and Rescue Unit. This unit - the first of its kind in Australia will be deployed to help with recovery efforts during tsunamis, earthquakes, fires and floods.
The main focus of the session will be on dog training, dog park etiquette, obedience and social skills. No bookings required, just turn up with your four-legged friends and let the fun begin!
For more information:www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/companion_animals
Johnson Brothers Mitre10 - Trade Day 2014
Annual Trade Day with an afternoon of never to be repeated prices, giveaways and more
Thursday, June 26 at 12:00pm - 6:00pm: 51 Bassett Street Mona Vale, NSW, Australia
Prostate cancer testing is on trial
The University of Sydney's School of Public Health is seeking people to participate in a "community jury" to independently asses the process of Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) testing in Australia.
The PSA test is often used to test healthy men to see whether they have prostate cancer. However, experts disagree about whether, when and how the PSA test should be used for this purpose.
Chief investigator of the study, Associate Professor Stacy Carter, said this study is important because although many men are concerned about prostate cancer, the messages they receive can be confusing.
"Our research team is calling out for participants to be part of a community jury to consider how men and their GPs should approach PSA testing," she said.
"We will present the current evidence and then ask people to consider, debate and decide the best way to manage PSA testing for prostate cancer in otherwise healthy men.
"Those arguing for the PSA test say it can save men's lives and may prevent problems from development of primary and secondary tumours. Those arguing against it say it leads to many men being unnecessarily harmed.
"Because of this genuine disagreement over the merits of the PSA, men and their GPs are in a difficult position when trying to decide what to do."
The PSA test measures the blood level of PSA, a protein that is produced by the prostate gland. Although a higher PSA level may indicate a higher risk of prostate cancer, there are other, non-cancer related reasons for having an elevated PSA level. And some men who have prostate cancer do not have elevated PSA.
"Prostate cancer is a fatal disease for a minority of men and the PSA test is intended to identify the cancer early so that it can be treated and prevent life-threatening disease," Associate Professor Carter said.
"But there is a disagreement about whether screening is beneficial as many men can have prostate cancer diagnosed but not experience physical symptoms or difficulties. This means detecting prostate cancer early will not necessarily reduce the chance of dying from prostate cancer.
"The concern about the PSA is that the test can provide false positive results, as well as false negative results. It can also lead to over-diagnosis (detecting tumours that aren't life threatening) and over-treatment (treating tumours that aren't life threatening).
"Overtreatment exposes men unnecessarily to the potential complications and harmful side effects of treatments for early prostate cancer, including surgery and radiation therapy. The side effects of these treatments can include urinary incontinence, problems with bowel function, and erectile dysfunction.
"This project aims to answer what the moral obligations of GPs are in respect to PSA testing, and what should constitute informed consent to perform a PSA test.
"We are recruiting participants for a series of community juries to consider this problem. A community jury is like a jury in a court room. Expert witnesses present evidence and information, and then the jury debates and comes to a conclusion.
"We are keen to involve all sorts of people of voting age: older and younger, men and women.
"We will be running four separate juries, in July, August and October at the University of Sydney in Camperdown. Research has shown that people who participate in a community jury find it a highly rewarding experience," Associate Professor Carter said.
This project is part of a larger study examining the role of values, ethics, and evidence in cancer screening policy and practice. It is a collaborative initiative involving academics from the University of Sydney's School of Public Health, Centre for Values, Ethics and the Law in Medicine, University of Notre Dame's School of Medicine, Cancer Council Australia, and the SAX Institute.
To find out more about the community juries please call 02 9036 3427 or email cancer.screening@sydney.edu.au or visit http://cancerscreeningethics.org/
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.
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.
The Making of Midnight Oil at Manly Museum and Art Gallery
MIDNIGHT OIL: 20 June - 7 September 2014
A major touring exhibition celebrating the ‘power and the passion’ of one of the world’s most inspirational rock bands, Midnight Oil, examining its impact on our social and cultural history over the past 40 years, will be open at MAG&M from Friday 20 June 2014.Developed by Manly Art Gallery & Museum’s Ross Heathcote in consultation with Midnight Oil drummer Rob Hirst and with exhibition design by Wendy Osmond, The Making of Midnight Oil features stage costumes, posters, previously unseen film, documents, lyric sheets, music industry awards, band instruments, memorabilia and photographs - sourced from public and private collections, including Hirst’s own personal archive. Other former members of Midnight Oil have made significant contributions to the exhibition.
Midnight Oil’s 1990 New York concert, ‘Black Rain Falls’, will be released for the first time digitally and on DVD on Friday June 20th in support of the opening of the exhibition ‘The Making Of Midnight Oil’ at the Manly Art Gallery & Museum on the same day.
On May 30, 1990, Midnight Oil interrupted their North American tour for a “special guerrilla action” outside Exxon Oil headquarters on the crowded Avenue of the Americas in midtown Manhattan. The agitprop event from the back of a flat-bed truck drew more than 10,000 people out of the nearby office buildings and onto the street.
The Oils were responding to one of the worst environmental disasters in US history when nearly 11 million gallons of oil were spilled onto the pristine Alaskan coastline by the Exxon Valdez. Twenty five years later the effects of the spill on the landscapes and wildlife of southern Alaska are still being felt.
“There are things we think are so important that they have to be said,” lead singer Peter Garrett told a packed international press conference after the performance, “and the best way we could say it was with song. What happened this morning was just another of the things that this band has tried to do for the last decade or so. We want to take some of the issues that are in the songs back onto the streets where they belong.”
The DVD features all six songs captured live that day: “Progress” (From the 1986 EP, Species Deceases); “Sometimes” and “Dreamworld” (from 1987’s Diesel And Dust); “Blue Sky Mine” and “River Runs Red” (from Blue Sky Mining, 1990); the apropos tribute to John Lennon, “Instant Karma” and the video clip for Midnight Oil’s “King Of The Mountain” (also from Blue Sky Mining), plus commentary on each track from the band.
In addition to the ‘Black Rain Falls’ release Sony Music is for the first time releasing the physical remastered versions of these 8 classic Midnight Oil albums: Midnight Oil, Head Injuries, Place Without A Postcard, 10,9,8,7,6,5,4,3,2,1 , Red Sails In The Sunset, Diesel And Dust, Blue Sky Mining, and Earth And Sun And Moon, as well as the EP’s Bird Noises and Species Deceases.
‘The Making of Midnight Oil’ at Manly Art Gallery, developed by MAG&M’s Ross Heathcote in collaboration with Midnight Oil drummer Rob Hirst and with exhibition design by Wendy Osmond, The Making of Midnight Oil will examine the band’s impact on our social and cultural history.
As Rob Hirst puts it ‘The first crowd we ever pulled was on the Northern Beaches – in a long-demolished surf-pub called the Royal Antler Hotel. So it’s fitting that our first ever exhibition is in Manly, where some of us still live and make music. It’s a Midnight Oil exhibition, sure. But it’s also the story of a time when music – loud, fast and original – was all that mattered. And about the bands and the beer-halls and the smoky, sweaty, sticky joy of it all.’
Manly Art Gallery & Museum is at West Esplanade, Manly NSW 2095. The Gallery is open 10am - 5pm Tuesday – Sunday and ‘The Making Of Midnight Oil’ will be on show from 20th June until 7th September 2014. Entry is Free.
Avalon Craft Cottage at Dee Why
Watch this space next week for news of the Avalon Craft Cottage's next big show at Dee Why Grand. One week only Monday 23rd to Sunday 29th June. All details next issue!
Maureen Darcy Smith
END OF FINANCIAL YEAR - SCAM ALERT
C/- NSW Police Force
It’s almost the end of the financial year and the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is warning people to guard their personal information and be wary of scams attax time.
Remember, the ATO will never send an email asking you to confirm, update or disclose confidential details like your tax file number, passwords or credit card details.
The ATO has information outlining how you can protect your information -http://tinyurl.com/kcb54yt
MEET THE DIRECTORS – Club Palm Beach
Back Row: Greg Womersley, John Sinclair (Secretary Manager) Michael Stevenson, James Woodward, Cye Guard, Russell Marsh
Front Row: John Oliver, Mark Ferguson (Sub Branch President), Bryan Webster (Club Ltd President), Chris Hendrikson, Robert Head
Absent: Neil Smith
FloodSafe Month June 2014 - Launch Video
Northern Beaches Concert's This Week
There are 2 concerts:
Concert 1 on Wednesday 18th at 7.00pm in the Pittwater High Auditorium, Mona Vale. This concert features the Northern Beaches Orchestra, The Northern Beaches Community Band, The Northern Beaches Concert Band and the Northern Beaches Symphonic Wind Ensemble.
It is the first time that all ensembles have played together showing the breadth of talent in the Northern Beaches.
The orchestra will be performing "Mars", by Holst, "Movement IV of Dvorak's 7th Symphony" and Vaughan-Williams' "English Folk Songs Suite".
The second concert is on Sat 21st June at the Pittwater High Auditorium at 7.00pm. This concert is the final concert in the Northern Beaches Instrumental Festival where local string ensembles and junior orchestras will play all Saturday. The night concert includes Mona Vale Senior strings Ensemble, St Ives Chamber Ensemble and Pittwater High school orchestra. A ticket to one session entitles the holder to attend all concerts throughout the day.
Ticket prices are as follows: 5.00 per adult, $3.00 concession or $10.00 per family
The Northern Beaches Orchestra will be performing the same repertoire as for the Wednesday night concert.
RPAYC announce Mid Winter One Design Regatta
The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club invites all eligible International One Design Classes including Etchells, Ynglings, Dragons, Melges 24/32, Vipers, Stars, Elliott 7s and others to compete in the inaugural mid winter One Design Regatta hosted by the RPAYC on the week-end of the 12th and 13th of July, 2014.
Racing will be held inshore from 1100hrs and will be a windward / leeward course, with up to six races across the two days on the waters of Pittwater, most likely in the bid pond just north of Scotland Island. A social BBQ and prize giving will be held on Sunday afternoon post racing in Halyards bistro and bar.
Eligible boats must enter via the online entry system available on the RPAYC website at:
www.rpayc.com.au/yacht-racing/regatta-and-championships
The Notice of Race and other race documents and entry can be viewed using the same link as above.
Berthing is available to all visiting boats, contact RPAYC Waterfront to arrange allocations.
A large fleet of Etchells is expected for the One Design winter regatta in July
Pittwater Etchells sailor and RPAYC member, Jill Connell says, “This is a great opportunity for One Design class sailors wanting some more regatta competition during winter to join us on Pittwater for a couple of great days of racing. We would like to see as many One Design boats on Pittwater so please come and join in the mid winter regatta.”
Entry fee is $110 and entries close Wednesday 9 July.
For further details contact the RPAYC Sailing Office on 02 9998 3760 or email sailing@rpayc.com.au.
By Damian Devine, Marketing & Publicity Manager, RPAYC
Dragons will be racing in the Mid Winter Regatta hosted by the RPAYC
NEWS FROM FRIENDS OF NARRABEEN LAGOON CATCHMENT INC
Free Kayak tours to see Black Swans on Narrabeen Lagoon
The number of Black Swans making Narrabeen Lagoon their home is continuing to increase, according to Tony Carr, president of Friends of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment. Mr Carr said that his organisation carries out regular counts and in recent weeks the total has grown from 30 to 44.
“It’s not the breeding season so clearly the lagoon environment is ideal for these beautiful creatures because it’s attracting more of them,” he said.
Mr Carr will lead free paddles to the Western Basin, Deep and Middle Creeks on Sunday June 15 at 1pm and again on Sunday September 28. More dates will be added if there is demand. The Lagoon supports a wide range of threatened flora and fauna and Deep Creek attracts migratory birds from as far away as Russia. BYO suitable boat or a hire kayak can be arranged at a small charge. No previous kayaking experience required – tuition will be given. To register email tonycarr@ozemail.com.au or call 0417 502 056.
Friends of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment also conducts regular bushwalks, led by Conny Harris. Upcoming walks include the Oxford Fall triangle on Sunday July 13, Cromer Circle on Saturday August 2 and Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment Traverse on Sunday August 31.
There is no charge for participation. For more information and to register phone 0432 643 295. Details atwww.narrabeenlagoon.org.au
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 – June 4th, 2014
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.
UNIQUE VEHICLE SHOW
The Royal Motor Yacht Club Broken Bay (at Newport) will be holding its 7th Annual “UNIQUE VEHICLE SHOW" on Sunday 22nd June 2014.
An "unusual" event for a Yacht Club you might think, but "boaties" do have many other interests, and an enthusiasm for all things mechanical is certainly one of them! We are very excited with the amount of interest we have received from people keen to display their vehicles, and particularly from members of the Pittwater Motor Enthusiasts who help with the day’s planning.
There will be over 60 vehicles on display including everything from beautifully restored Vintage cars, Classics & Sports Cars, Hot Rods & Motorcycles.
The displays will be located in the waterfront car park at the Royal Motor Yacht Club, 46 Prince Alfred Parade, Newport - starting at 10am and finishing at 3pm. Entry is free - members of the Public are welcome but will need to sign the appropriate temporary visitor form if they wish to use the Club Brasserie or other facilities. There will be great entertainment throughout the day.
A different day out for the whole family, and this year the historic MV Reliance ferry will be operating from Rowland Reserve Boat Ramp and Newport Public Wharf providing a great way of getting to and from the Yacht Club and enjoying a 10 minute boat trip at the same time – Cost $5.00 per person each way!
We look forward to seeing you here at the RMYC!
For more information in regard to this event and the ferry service operating on the day, please contact the RMYC office during business hours – 9997 5511.
TEDX Pittwater!
Very excited to announce that TEDxPittwater will be held onSaturday July 5th 2014 in the Mona Vale Town Hall from 10am - 4.30pm. We have an amazing line up of speakers. Have a look at the website www.tedxpittwater.com
TEDxPittwater are looking for volunteers to help leading up to and on the day.
Needed:
• People to video and edit the talks (with 2 camera angles and good sound) for the TEDx YouTube channel.
• Front of house team to sign in our guests and seat them.
• Graphic designer to help with power point presentations leading up to the event.
If you are able to help us out let us know. You will have free access to the event and passes to the after party.
TEDxPittwater : Blue Skies - Saturday July 5 2014 10 am - 4.30 pm - a celebration of the great diversity of ideas worth sharing in Pittwater.
Website www.tedxpittwater.com
Speakers: www.tedxpittwater.com/speakers.html
Tickets $30.00 plus book fee at: HERE
Deep Creek Riparian Ecosystem Catchment Project
Pittwater Council has been successful in securing grant funding for the Deep Creek Riparian Ecosystem Catchment Project. The grant funding is from Greater Sydney Local Land Services and will support bush regeneration, habitat creation and riparian restoration within Deep Creek, Bilarong Reserve and the Elanora Bushcare site. The project is funded for a 12 month period, and will link with Council bush regeneration maintenance and hazard reduction work already being undertaken at the site. The project aims to reduce threats to biodiversity and enhance the condition, connectivity and resilience of habitats and landscapes.
Part of the project is to increase community awareness of environmental issues and management strategies to protect and care for this significant coastal area. Council will be undertaking community event days with planting at various locations within the project site, including the Elanora Road Bushcare site.
Council will also hold native plant giveaways for local residents to encourage the planting of locally native species on private properties. Please join us at any of these project events to help preserve and protect the Deep Creek Catchment! For more information please contact the Bushcare Officer on 9970 1367 or email bushcare@pittwater.nsw.gov.au.
Project Events
Elanora Road Planting Day
When: Sunday 15 June, 9am to 12pm Where: Meet adjacent the driveway of 15 Elanora Road, Elanora Heights
Pets 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
Public Exhibition of Warriewood Valley Strategic Review Addendum Report
Pittwater residents are being encouraged to take part in a public exhibition about the future of the remaining undeveloped land in Warriewood Valley.
The Warriewood Valley Strategic Review Report 2012 (Strategic Review 2012) which dealt with the majority of undeveloped land in the Valley was endorsed by Pittwater Council a year ago. For the remaining 22 undeveloped sectors not provided with a forward path under the Strategic Review 2012, Council agreed to undertake a future review of these lands.
Council has now completed a review of this land and prepared the draft Warriewood Valley Strategic Review Addendum Report 2014 (draft Addendum Report).
The draft Addendum Report recommends a number of administrative or ‘housekeeping’ amendments to the Warriewood Valley Release Area boundary as well as some changes to the current land use designations. It will result in an additional 17 dwellings anticipated for Warriewood Valley, taking the total number of dwellings to 2527, from the previous total of 2510 dwellings.
The public exhibition will commence Tuesday 10 June until 7 July 2014. Land owners will be invited to meet with Council staff during the exhibition period. Submissions should be in writing and addressed to the General Manager. Submissions can be submitted via:
• Mail - Pittwater Council, PO Box 882, Mona Vale 1660
• Email - Pittwater_council@pittwater.nsw.gov.au
• Online - Submission form at www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/exhibition
• Fax - (02) 9970 1200
The draft Addendum Report will be available online from 10 June 2014 at www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/exhibition and hard copies available at Mona Vale and Avalon customer service centres and libraries.
NAVA Writing Grant Series - Empowering Artists to take Positive Steps towards a Brighter Future
Have you always had a hankering to apply for a grant, yet felt clueless about how and where to start? It’s time to stop procrastinating and get moving (unless you want life to pass you by!) with a two-part NAVA Writing Grants series - proudly brought to you by Eramboo Artist Environment & Enliven Pittwater.
Writing grants is very challenging as you must find a way to match your idea with the appropriate grant. There is a definite art to writing a grant application and a key to understanding the often complicated guidelines.
NAVA, the National Association for the Visual Arts, will be bringing Joan Cameron-Smith to provide an introduction to funding bodies, provide tips for researching the right grant for your needs and she will also outline what professional artist statements, biographies and CVs are all about!
A workshop will be held from 11am-4pm, Saturday 2 August(BYO lunch; afternoon tea provided) at the Eramboo Artist Environment, 304 McCarrs Creek Rd, Terrey Hills.
This workshop is designed to provide you with ongoing skills in writing artist statements and biographies, preparing professional quality support material and CVs, and writing a draft project description.
Participants must bring their artists support material and project outlines developed from the tips provided in the first workshop.
For details & bookings: info@eramboo.com
Pittwater Rate Notices are now digital
It’s time to jump on the digital bandwagon and make your life easier than ever – enjoy this FREE service and pay your rates online!
From 7 April Pittwater ratepayers have been signing up to the new MyPost Digital Mailbox that allows them to receive and pay their rates notices online.
Ratepayers can opt in to the service provided by Australia Post, which the Council hopes will eventually eliminate the need for paper-based copies of rates notice.
The new service manages bill payments in a single location with a single password. The digital mailbox is a free and secure online platform, allowing Pittwater property owners to receive communication, pay bills and store important documents such as rates notices online.
Chief Financial Officer Mark Jones from the Council said the new service also lets people pay water and phone bills.
“The main advantage for people is that it is a centralised bill payment service that automatically sends reminders via email when rates are due,” he said.
“From the Council’s perspective it will gradually reduce the costs associated with printing the rates notice and mailing it to householders.”
Mr Jones said all ratepayers would continue to be sent the July rates notice by mail, which contain the two annual parking stickers for ratepayers.
“However if you opt in to the digital service, you’ll no longer receive a paper-based quarterly bill.”
Mr Jones added that ratepayers who did not wish to take up the digital mailbox service would continue to receive their rates notice by mail as normal.
“However we expect that once people become familiar with the new service they will sign up.”
To sign up for the digital mailbox service visit www.digitalmailbox.com.au
Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 18/6/2014: click on Logo.
To contact Julian: editor@scotlandisland.org.au
Bushcare Dates - June 2014
Bushcare at W
arriewood - The Warriewood bushcare group managed by Pittwater Council needs more volunteers on 4th Wednesday morning of the month – Can you help? Please contact Mary Johnsen at 9999 2020.
Sun June 15
Angophora Res 8:30-11:30am
Crescent Res 9-12pm
Elanora Rd 9-12pm
Elanora Bushcare Planting Day 9-12pm
Thu June 19
Mona Vale Dunes 8:30-11:30am
Sat June 21
Toongari Res 8-11am
Old Wharf Res 8-11am
Nth Palm Beach 9-12pm
Pathilda Res 9-12pm
Irrawong Res 1-4pm
Sun June 22
Bungan Beach 8-11am
Win Bay 9-12pm
Wed June 25
W’wood Beach 8-11am
Sat June 28
Pindari Res 8-11am
Nth Newport Beach 8:30-11:30am
Careel Creek 8:30-11:30am
Kywong Res 8:30-11:30am
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 May - 2014
Southern Cross Wildlife Care - Critter of the Month - June 2014
St Ives Medieval Faire!
Hear ye! Hear ye! Fair maidens and knights of Ku-ring-gai! The St Ives Medieval Faire is happening in September. It's going to be an action packed weekend of fun for the whole family. Check out the clip below for a hint of what's in store. All things Medieval, Jousting, Birds of Prey, Battles, Trebuchet, Archery, Armour, Chainmail.
VENUE: St Ives Showground, 420 Mona Vale Road, Sydney
Tickets are on sale here: www.stivesmedievalfaire.com.au/
Federal Government Media Releases:
Postage meters priority mail - Australia Post
SNIPPET: From 2 June 2014, customers using postage meters have the choice of sending letters to either the Regular or Priority delivery timetables. If you're using the Priority timetable, your postage meter should now print'Priority' when metering letters at the Priority rate.. If your meter doesn't print 'Priority', Australia Post cannot reliably deliver letters to the Priority timetable.
Critical industry issues to be addressed through seven new Research Hubs
SNIPPET: The Australian Government has committed more than $23.9 million to establish seven new industry research hubs that will address critical industry challenges across areas such as mining and resources, grain improvement, aquaculture and manufacturing. These new research hubs will support collaborative R&D projects that address challenging industry issues indeed 26 industry partner organisations are contributing more than $36.4 million cash and in-kind for these new research projects, Mr Pyne said. ARC Research Hub for Australian Copper-Uranium.
Navy achieves White Ribbon workplace accreditation : Department of Defence
SNIPPET: The Royal Australian Navy has become the largest organisation to receive White Ribbon Workplace Accreditation for demonstrating a culture of zero tolerance of men's violence against women. Navy has, for some time, been committed to the White Ribbon campaign a male-led movement to end violence against women. Last year VADM Griggs committed Navy to a pilot program for organisations to become a White Ribbon Accredited Workplace. White Ribbon Accreditation has been a whole of Navy undertaking, VADM Griggs said.
Launch of the Transition And Wellbeing Research Programme
SNIPPET: The Government has today launched the $5 million Transition and Wellbeing Research Programme which is a significant new programme of research into the mental health and wellbeing of contemporary service personnel and veterans. This Programme is the largest and most comprehensive programme of study undertaken in Australia to examine the impact of military service on the mental, physical and social health of serving and ex-serving personnel and their families who have deployed to contemporary conflicts. The Programme will consist of three major studies. The first two studies will be conducted by the Centre for Traumatic Stress Studies at the University of Adelaide. The third study will be conducted by the Australian Institute of Family Studies.. The first study, the Mental Health and Wellbeing Transition Study , will target both serving and ex-serving personnel to determine their mental, physical and social health status.
Top researchers recognised with NHMRC Excellence Awards | National Health and Medical Research Council
SNIPPET: The National Health and Medical Research Council's top prizes for excellence in health and medical research will be announced tonight at NHMRC's 200th Council Dinner. Professor Jamie Rossjohn is a NHMRC Australia Fellow at Monash University. Associate Professor Terry Haines is the Director of the Allied Health Research Unit at Monash Health and Monash University.
Japanese press release featuring work done at OPAL - ANSTO
SNIPPET: Work on the Discovery of a New Crystal Structure Family of Oxide-Ion Conductors NdBaInO 4 and done in part on our ECHIDNA high-resolution powder diffractometer has been featured in press releases by both J-PARC and KEK in Japan. Work done in part on our ECHIDNA high-resolution powder diffractometer has been featured in press releases by both J-PARC and KEK in Japan. The work is on Discovery of a New Crystal Structure Family of Oxide-Ion Conductors NdBaInO 4 , and results from a collaboration between Tokyo Institute of Technology, Ibaraki University, the Japan Synchrotron Radiation Research Institute at the SPring-8 synchrotron, the High Energy Accelerator Research Organization (KEK), the Japan Proton Accelerator Research Complex (J-PARC) and ANSTO, with James Hester representing ANSTO.
SNIPPET: For the agricultural sectors of Australia and its six largest competitors by value:. - A specification for a project that will deliver an annually published assessment of agricultural competitiveness that:. - Provides direction on the comparative competitiveness of Australian agriculture, including areas of strength and weakness.
Australia affirms support to the Solomon Islands justice sector
SNIPPET: Minister for Justice Michael Keenan has praised the enduring support of RAMSI and Australia to the Solomon Islands' Law and Justice sector over the past 10 years. Australia has worked closely with the Solomon Islands Government to strengthen its justice institutions since 2003, contributing around $17 million to the sector in 20132014. Australia has committed $44 million under its current four-year phase of support to the justice sector.
The Doctor heads Down Under | About the ABC
SNIPPET: ABC TV and BBC Worldwide are thrilled to announce that Sydney has been chosen as one of the seven stops on the upcoming. Brendan Dahill, ABC TV Head of Programming says: ABC TV has always been the Australian home for The Doctor. ABC TV Marketing and Communications.
Update to investigation into allegations of inappropriate behaviour : Department of Defence
SNIPPET: The Royal Australian Navy has initiated administrative action against eight members, as part of the ongoing process associated with the Administrative Inquiry into allegations of unacceptable behaviour in HMAS Ballarat first reported by Navy inNovember last year. While the inquiry report recommended action against eight individuals, the inquiry found that there is no clear evidence of a pattern of systemic unacceptable behaviour or a deep-seated culture of hazing ceremonies or rituals within the ship. I will continue to provide updated information when there is no risk that it may prejudice the integrity of the investigation or administrative proceedings. While I am pleased the report has found no clear evidence of a pattern of systemic unacceptable behaviour, Navy takes all allegations of this nature very seriously, he said.
Australian-European medical research infrastructures join forces
SNIPPET: Tips for searching this site. These agreements will give Australian researchers better access to some of the world's most advanced treatment options and give access to research infrastructure that will help them translate great Australian medical research discoveries into better diagnosis of medical conditions, new products and new drugs.
Abbott Govt actioning BBF child care review
SNIPPET: Assistant Minister for Education Sussan Ley today released the first-ever comprehensive review of the Budget Based Funded (BBF) child care programme. In recent decades, BBF services have provided important support for communities where traditional child care services haven't been viable or available, Ms Ley said. This also ties in with our decision to task the current Productivity Commission Inquiry the largest review of the child care system since the 1990s which includes terms looking at how best to provide high-quality child care that is affordable, flexible and accessible for disadvantaged, regional, rural and remote communities.
Australia supports action against forced labour
SNIPPET: The Australian Government has joined the international community in supporting the adoption of a new International Labour Organization Protocol seeking to eliminate forced labour, including human trafficking and slavery. Despite efforts to reduce and prevent forced labour over many years, at least 20.9 million people still experience forced labour each year, with over half (11.7 million) of these people coming from the Asia-Pacific region. The new Protocol encourages practical measures aimed at preventing forced labour as well as measures to protect and assist victims of forced labour.
Condemnation of ISIL attacks in Iraq
SNIPPET: The Australian Government strongly condemns the actions of the Al Qaeda-linked terrorist group the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), which has taken over substantial parts of Mosul and other areas of northwest Iraq. The Australian Government has listed ISIL as a terrorist entity. The Australian Government acknowledges the ongoing efforts of the Kurdistan Regional Government to extend humanitarian support to those displaced by ISIL aggression.
National Health and Medical Research Council celebrates 200th session | National Health and Medical Research Council
SNIPPET: The 77 year old National Health and Medical Research Council will today hold its 200th meeting, following a special Awards dinner attended by the Federal Minister for Health Peter Dutton yesterday. `Over the decades, Council has overseen tens of thousands of funding decisions that support Australia's best health and medical research - including discoveries that have made a significant global impact,' Professor Anderson said. Professor Anderson also reflected on how Council has adapted to the significant changes in the way research has been conducted over the years.
Establishing the National Centre for Excellence for Civil Society | The Hon Kevin Andrews MP
SNIPPET: The Centre for Social Impact is preparing advice for the Australian Government outlining the best models for establishing the new National Centre for Excellence for Civil Society. We are engaging CSI to help civil society establish independently of government a National Centre for Excellence that advances the interests of charities and not-for-profit organisations. The task of the Centre for Social Impact is to propose models for the Centre for Excellence that will be relevant to the landscape in Australia and that include functions that fill existing gaps in support for civil society.
Corrective Services, Australia, March Quarter 2014
SNIPPET: Rise in females doing community service. The number of persons serving community-based orders increased by 2,314 persons, nationally between the March quarter 2013 and the March quarter 2014, said Mr William Milne, ABS Director of the National Centre for Crime and Justice. Further information can be found in Corrective Services, Australia, March Quarter 2014.
Billy The Bandicoot Celebrates World Environment Day from Pittwater and Warringah Councils (education and fun event for our children).
Reflections by George Repin: BOROBUDUR
Aquatics: Port Jackson Pleasure Fleets - 5. and 6: The Building of Ships, Intercolonial Races, 22 Footers, 18 Footers and Mr Mark Foy
Pictures: World Oceans Day Celebration
Profile of the Week: June 2014 - Pittwater Ladies Lynleigh Grieg - The lady who curates our Critters of the Month section in Community News for Southern Cross Wildlife Care, and is a regular contributor of articles and reports on defending and looking after all our Australian wildlife, be they in the sea, air, above or tunnelling through the earth, has the kind essence you wish you could bottle and share around. As someone recently remarked to us about Lynleigh and her fellow Sydney Wildlife carers: “thank the Good Lord for such amazing, compassionate and caring people. I have so much admiration for you all as I know how much dedication, patience and commitment it takes!”
History: June 2014 - Pittwater Communications - Early Pittwater Launches and Ferries Runs In Pittwater
Artist of the Month: June 2014 - Lucinda Rose - One of our regular contributors is a wonderfully inspiring young lady who is developing her artistic skills in a wide range of mediums. Currently studying Fine Arts at COFA, Lucinda also has a passion for people that finds expression through her works and through doing. In July this year she hopes to travel as part of the team of the Pittwater Friends of Soibada to continue works already begun.
Don't Fall for this Scam!
Be aware! We have been advised by a number of residents recently about a company currently door knocking in the district offering to trim or remove trees without the need for Council approval. A "good price" is offered to carry out the work immediately in consideration of payment of a deposit to meet "upfront costs". All of this is in breach of Australian Consumer Law which makes it illegal, in the case of soliciting work, to request a deposit in advance or carry out any work within a mandatory 10-day cooling off period - to say nothing about Council's requirements.
We have been contacted by residents again this week regarding a man cold calling at homes in Pittwater offering to cut down trees etc. On checking this man is listed on Dept. of Fair Tradings website as a serial conman.
DO NOT GIVE THIS MAN ANY MONEY!!!!!!!!
Residents should also know that Council requirements in some cases requires aborists reports: Anyone wanting to carry out work in relation to trees must refer to Control B4.22 Preservation of Trees or Bushland Vegetation in the Pittwater 21 Development Control Plan (DCP), and should consult Council for information before proceeding. This includes proposed works on trees covered by Control B4.22 that are overhanging from a neighbouring property.
As per the control, some tree species are exempt, trees listed as exempt can be removed without consent from Council. Trees may be pruned by up to 10% once in every 12 calendar months in accordance with AS4373-2007 Pruning of Amenity Tree without council consent. However, for removal and other work, an application must be completed.
See all Pittwater Council guidelines at: HERE
Shirley Fealy Creative Award 2014
Pittwater Camera Clubs current club champion Sue Kleverlaan won the Shirley Fealy Award for Creative Photography.
The award is open to all club members and is judged by an independent judge based on the creative merit of the photograph. Photoshop or other image editing software can be used to produce the final image, so a high degree of photographic skill is required, as well as a good understanding of imaging software. Sue has again demonstrated a high degree of talent in both areas.
Pittwater Camera Club has now moved to it's new premises at Pittwater RSL. New members and visitors are welcome, please visit our website for details.
Above: ‘St. Germain des Pres’
Mona Vale Winter Solstice SwimSunday June 22
Entries only online. For entries click here.
6th outing of this event which, despite the time of year, does not run in cold water. In mid-late June, water generally still is around the early 20s, which is eminently comfortable, even for those wusses whose first resort is to the wettie. The air shouldn't be too cool either, if the sun shines. And this year, this swim actually runs on the solstice (June 21-22).
Sydney is a terrific location for winter swimming, for the water generally doesn't get very cold at all, and the coolest over winter generally doesn't arrive until late July. Indeed, our coldest water in recent years has come in those spasmodic cold spells that have wafted in in high summer.
Just four divisions in this event: Wetties (Wetsuits) and Newd (non-wetties), Male and Female. Free parking; Free soup kitchen dispensing Mrs June Dibbs's (a regular correspondent to The Sydney Morning Herald) minestrone. Register online or by mail only. There will be no new entries on race day.
Start time is 10am, but be there by 9am.
Pittwater Friends of Soibada Trivia Night
A great night had by all! Thank you all so very much. Soup for Soibada coming Up- Friday 13th of June at Maria Regina Church. Details in Events page.
General David Hurley new NSW Governor - 5th June 2014
NSW Premier Mike Baird has appointed General David Hurley to be the next Governor of NSW. General Hurley has had a long and distinguished career in command in the Australian Defence Force, which culminated in his appointment as Chief of the Defence Force in 2011.
Mr Baird said General Hurley was an outstanding Australian who dedicated his entire adult life to serving his country.
“The people of NSW are extremely fortunate General Hurley has accepted the position of Governor,” Mr Baird said.
General Hurley was born in Wollongong in 1953 and graduated from the Royal Military College, Duntroon in December 1975 into the Royal Australian Infantry Corps.
In 2010 General Hurley became a Companion of the Order of Australia for eminent service to the Australian Defence Force. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his service in Somalia during Operation SOLACE.
He will retire from the Defence Force in July.
General Hurley replaces Marie Bashir, who was one of NSW’s longest serving Governors. General Hurley will take over from Professor Bashir in October when she retires.
Pittwater Men’s Probus Club - Tuesday 10th June 2014
Guest Speaker: Joe Mills
The history of the cold war and satellite imagery development
Many of us know Joe Mills as a contributing club member in his past role as our activities organiser. Joe is on his sabbatical from Probus to pursue a personal project.
Since 1964 Joe has worked as a cartographer using photographic and remote sensing mapping technologies in both the government and private sectors. His work took him to many parts of Australia and Papua New Guinea for the Lands Department, Qasco Aerial Surveys and the Australian Survey Office.
Joe has always had a keen interest in the modern and fast changing techniques of cartography, and even lived through it since the mid-60s. Mapping as we now know it today, is all pervasive in our modern lives. Just look at your own use of the internet, real estate sales, GPS etc. Joe will tell us about some of the history of the cold war and satellite imagery development
Special thanks – Jersey Donation by Mona Vale Raiders
MV Raiders donated some old jerseys to a team of kids in Tonga. They are the U14 Rugby League Club in Havelu.
Tavake from Spirit Pacific said, “Thanks to the club and their sponsors for giving this team jerseys, they are very grateful, they were using their own t-shirts prior to this for their games.”
Don’t they look good in the MV Raiders colours!!!!!
Humph Hall to be Made Possible
Hi Humph Hall Supporters,
As you know, Humph Hall has been effectively closed for public events since the beginning of March owing to new fire safety measures and requirements. Gial and I will not be able to start inviting you into our home for concerts and other events again until these new measures have been implemented. Unfortunately the cost for doing this is going to be a bit over $16,000.
Many of you have been asking if there was anything you could do to help us - well now there is! :-)
Pozible Crowd-funding Campaign
I have established a project on Pozible.com called 'Help Humph Hall' to try and raise $8,000 - half the amount needed.
The idea is this - You go to the 'Help Humph Hall' project page where you'll find information about the project (including a 3 minute video message from me) and seven different amounts that you can pledge to donate ranging from $17 (enough to cover the required fire retardant treatment of one chair) to $1,000 which will be VERY HELPFUL INDEED and entitle you, and all of your friends and relations, to free entry to Humph Hall for a whole year! :-)
All or nothing - The project will close on Saturday 12th July. The way Pozible works is that if we don't achieve pledges covering the entire $8,000 then the project will fail and no money will be collected/raised! :-(
So please, if you can afford to do so, go to the site and pledge what you can and use your email/Facebook/Twitter accounts to encourage others to do likewise. Just tell them about it and send them this link: pozible.com/humph
Please act quickly - Apparently it is important for the success of these crowd-funding campaigns for them to begin with some momentum so, if you intend to add your support and make a pledge, please don't put it off - do it today!
How Pozible works
PayPal - In order to be able to pledge, you will need to 'join' Pozible and establish some mechanism for paying. I suggest you use PayPal. If you aren't already set up with a PayPal account it is something you should seriously consider doing as it allows you to conduct transactions over the Internet without having to expose your credit card details on every occasion.
Choose a Reward - Once you have joined Pozible you should go to the 'Help Humph Hall' project and pledge a donation at one of the seven available levels which range from $17 to $1,000 - each of which comes with a reward! :-)
All or nothing - If, and only if, enough people pledge for us to reach or exceed the $8,000 goal then the amount you pledged will be withdrawn from your bank account and transferred to ours. If the goal isn't reached then nothing happens - no money changes hands.
More Information
If you have any questions or would like to help but don't want to do so through Pozible, please don't hesitate to contact me: (02) 9939 8802
Thanks for your support,
Wayne
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
WHO'S UP FOR THE CHALLENGE? RULES RELEASED FOR AMERICA'S CUP - 3 Jun 2014
“We’re going to have our work cut out for us, that’s for sure.”
So says ORACLE TEAM USA skipper Jimmy Spithill as he assesses the competition for the 35th America’s Cup.
Today, the Protocol was released, which defines the rules, format and commercial regulations for the 35th America’s Cup. Entries open on June 9th and close August 8th, 2014, giving prospective teams two months to enter.
See what the teams are saying in the video below.
The Class Rule for the new AC62 yacht, which has already been shared with teams in draft format, will be issued in the coming days, prior to the entry period opening.
Highlights of the Protocol include:
* A three year racing program from 2015 to 2017 with every race counting towards qualification and/or points in the final America’s Cup Match
* At least six America’s Cup World Series events per year in 2015 and 2016 to be raced in the AC45 class. All teams have an opportunity to host an event in their home country
* An America’s Cup Qualifiers series in 2017 involving all teams, with a bonus point in the America’s Cup Match at stake
* America’s Cup Challenger Playoffs for the top four challenger teams to emerge from the Qualifiers
* The America’s Cup Match, featuring the defender, ORACLE TEAM USA against the top challenger. The first team to win 7 points will win the America’s Cup
* Up to two Youth America’s Cup events providing a pathway for young sailors to join the top rank of professionals
* The new AC62 yacht – a foiling, wing sail catamaran sailed by 8 crew – to be raced in all events in 2017
* A crew nationality rule requiring at least 25% of the AC62 crew to be nationals of the country of their challenge
The Protocol was negotiated between defending champion ORACLE TEAM USA and its Golden Gate Yacht Club and Team Australia’s Hamilton Island Yacht Club, the Challenger of Record.
The 35th America’s Cup builds on the successful elements of the last America’s Cup – fast, exciting racing in foiling multihulls that is challenging for the best sailors in the world and appealing to spectators.
“We are convinced the 35th America’s Cup will surpass previous events in almost every way: more challengers, amazing new boats and a competition structure that will engage and enthrall people over a three year period,” said Mat Belcher, the skipper of Team Australia, the Challenger of Record.
For his part, Spithill is aware that a stronger group of challengers will make it that much more difficult for his team to hold on to the Cup.
“It’s the America’s Cup, so it’s not supposed to be easy, but our goal is to make it a three-peat,” says Spithill, who led his team to victory in 2010 and 2013. “It was so close last time. Battling back to win from being down 8-1 is something we will never forget and I expect it will be just as difficult this time.”
The entry period is open from June 9th to August 8th 2014.
Southern Cross Wildlife Care Fundraiser
Fund Raising Auction at Joan Pearson's place, 4pm, 28 June. 3 course meal plus drinks with a presentation by Dr Ralph on wildlife treatment. SCWC merchandise will also be on sale. Come along and meet other friendly folk and learn something new. Cost is $75.00 each, booking essential. Call Joan on 9960 2229
Public Exhibition of Warriewood Valley Strategic Review Addendum Report
Pittwater residents are being encouraged to take part in a public exhibition about the future of the remaining undeveloped land in Warriewood Valley.
The Warriewood Valley Strategic Review Report 2012 (Strategic Review 2012) which dealt with the majority of undeveloped land in the Valley was endorsed by Pittwater Council a year ago. For the remaining 22 undeveloped sectors not provided with a forward path under the Strategic Review 2012, Council agreed to undertake a future review of these lands.
Council has now completed a review of this land and prepared the draft Warriewood Valley Strategic Review Addendum Report 2014 (draft Addendum Report).
The draft Addendum Report recommends a number of administrative or ‘housekeeping’ amendments to the Warriewood Valley Release Area boundary as well as some changes to the current land use designations. It will result in an additional 17 dwellings anticipated for Warriewood Valley, taking the total number of dwellings to 2527, from the previous total of 2510 dwellings.
The public exhibition will commence Tuesday 10 June until 7 July 2014. Land owners will be invited to meet with Council staff during the exhibition period. Submissions should be in writing and addressed to the General Manager. Submissions can be submitted via:
• Mail - Pittwater Council, PO Box 882, Mona Vale 1660
• Email - Pittwater_council@pittwater.nsw.gov.au
• Online - Submission form at www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/exhibition
• Fax - (02) 9970 1200
The draft Addendum Report will be available online from 10 June 2014 at www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/exhibition and hard copies available at Mona Vale and Avalon customer service centres and libraries.
NAVA Writing Grant Series - Empowering Artists to take Positive Steps towards a Brighter Future
Have you always had a hankering to apply for a grant, yet felt clueless about how and where to start? It’s time to stop procrastinating and get moving (unless you want life to pass you by!) with a two-part NAVA Writing Grants series - proudly brought to you by Eramboo Artist Environment & Enliven Pittwater.
Writing grants is very challenging as you must find a way to match your idea with the appropriate grant. There is a definite art to writing a grant application and a key to understanding the often complicated guidelines.
NAVA, the National Association for the Visual Arts, will be bringing Joan Cameron-Smith to provide an introduction to funding bodies, provide tips for researching the right grant for your needs and she will also outline what professional artist statements, biographies and CVs are all about!
The first workshop, with Joan Cameron-Smith, is Wednesday 11 June, 6pm-8pm at the Newport Community Centre.
A second workshop will be held from 11am-4pm, Saturday 2 August (BYO lunch; afternoon tea provided) at the Eramboo Artist Environment, 304 McCarrs Creek Rd, Terrey Hills.
This workshop is designed to provide you with ongoing skills in writing artist statements and biographies, preparing professional quality support material and CVs, and writing a draft project description.
Participants must bring their artists support material and project outlines developed from the tips provided in the first workshop.
For details & bookings: info@eramboo.com
Pittwater Rate Notices are now digital
It’s time to jump on the digital bandwagon and make your life easier than ever – enjoy this FREE service and pay your rates online!
From 7 April Pittwater ratepayers have been signing up to the new MyPost Digital Mailbox that allows them to receive and pay their rates notices online.
Ratepayers can opt in to the service provided by Australia Post, which the Council hopes will eventually eliminate the need for paper-based copies of rates notice.
The new service manages bill payments in a single location with a single password. The digital mailbox is a free and secure online platform, allowing Pittwater property owners to receive communication, pay bills and store important documents such as rates notices online.
Chief Financial Officer Mark Jones from the Council said the new service also lets people pay water and phone bills.
“The main advantage for people is that it is a centralised bill payment service that automatically sends reminders via email when rates are due,” he said.
“From the Council’s perspective it will gradually reduce the costs associated with printing the rates notice and mailing it to householders.”
Mr Jones said all ratepayers would continue to be sent the July rates notice by mail, which contain the two annual parking stickers for ratepayers.
“However if you opt in to the digital service, you’ll no longer receive a paper-based quarterly bill.”
Mr Jones added that ratepayers who did not wish to take up the digital mailbox service would continue to receive their rates notice by mail as normal.
“However we expect that once people become familiar with the new service they will sign up.”
To sign up for the digital mailbox service visit www.digitalmailbox.com.au
Community Streamwatch Program
If you’d like to nurture your environmental know-how then Pittwater Council’s Coastal Environment Centre (CEC) is giving locals a great opportunity to boost their skills in understanding freshwater ecosystems.
Council is joining forces with Streamwatch to offer an exciting citizen science project, observing and collecting data from our local waterways.
The session will begin with an information day on Sunday 22 June at the Coastal Environment Centre from midday to 2:30pm.
As part of the Streamwatch group, locals can learn about freshwater ecosystems, assist with data collection and network with other groups from across Sydney.
Streamwatch groups will meet once a month at sites around Pittwater.
Volunteers would be involved in water quality testing, data recording and Macro Invertebrate (water bug) sampling.
Anyone with an interest in the local freshwater waterways should not miss out!
To register, visit www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/cec/streamwatch
ACCC calls for comment on Elgas’ proposed acquisition of Kleenheat’s east coast LPG business- 5 June 2014
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has released a Statement of Issues outlining competition concerns with the proposed acquisition by Elgas Limited of Wesfarmers Kleenheat Gas Pty Ltd’s east coast LPG business. Elgas is a member of the BOC Group of companies, which is owned by the Linde Group, an international gases and engineering company. Kleenheat is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Wesfarmers Limited. The three major distributors of non-automotive LPG on the east coast are Elgas, Kleenheat and Origin. These three distributors have a combined east-coast share of approximately 90 per cent. In certain regional areas the only distributors are Elgas and Kleenheat, or dealers supplied exclusively by them. LPG distributors acquire wholesale LPG from oil refineries, oil and gas processors, and import terminals. Elgas owns Australia’s largest LPG import terminal, the Elgas Cavern in Sydney.
“The ACCC’s preliminary view is that the proposed acquisition raises significant competition issues for the distribution of LPG to customers in a number of different markets,” ACCC Chairman Rod Sims said. “Market inquiries have identified concerns that the transaction would remove Kleenheat as a significant competitor to Elgas and Origin.”
At a national level, there have been concerns raised that the proposed acquisition would remove Kleenheat as the only competitor to Elgas that has the ability to distribute non-automotive LPG, including leisure cylinders, to large national customers on competitive terms.
“The ACCC is concerned that the proposed acquisition would leave customers vulnerable to price increases,” Mr Sims said.
Market inquiries suggest that barriers to new entry and expansion by existing market participants are already high and would increase further as a result of the proposed acquisition. Some parties are particularly concerned about access to a competitive source of non-automotive LPG, given the importance of the Elgas Cavern. Concerns have been raised that the proposed acquisition would give Elgas additional incentive to deny its downstream rivals access to competitively priced wholesale LPG.
The Statement of Issues seeks further information on the competition issues which have arisen from the ACCC's review to date and is available on the public register.
The ACCC invites further submissions from interested parties in response to the Statement of Issues by 26 June 2014. The ACCC's proposed final decision date is 24 July 2014.
Submissions can be sent to the ACCC at mergers@accc.gov.au
FUND RAISING STALLS FOR MONA VALE HOSPITAL AUXILIARY FOR THE FIRST HALF OF 2014
June 14th: Sausage sizzle, Bunnings Narrabeen 8am – 4pm
June 20th: Stall, hospital foyer, knitting, craft, baking, Bric-a-brac 9am – 3pm
July 4th: Stall, Centro Warriewood, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft
July 5th: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft
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
Doggy Do's and Don'ts with Steve Austin
Is your dog a scally-wag? Does he run away from you when you call his name, or repeatedly get his head stuck in the kitchen rubbish bin? Or perhaps he is a bully to other dogs? If your pooch needs a ‘talking to’, then it’s time to meet dog trainer extraordinaire Steve Austin.
Pittwater Council has engaged elite dog trainer Steve Austin to help with your issues. Steve will be available Sunday 22 June for a FREE session at Rowland Reserve from 9am-12. It’ll be a fun and informative morning where he can answer all your doggy-related questions; particularly when it comes to obedience.
Steve realised at the age of 13 he had a special way with dogs as he trained his dog Sooty to entertain crowds outside the pub.
These days Steve is often invited to lecture and help at zoos around the world. He’s also a regular at American Law Enforcement Agencies and was asked to train dogs in bomb detection at the Mount Everest Kennel Club in Kathmandu. Steve also trained the first ever truffle detector dogs.
Most recently Steve was chosen to head the NSW Emergency Volunteer Canine Fire and Rescue Unit. This unit - the first of its kind in Australia will be deployed to help with recovery efforts during tsunamis, earthquakes, fires and floods.
The main focus of the session will be on dog training, dog park etiquette, obedience and social skills. No bookings required, just turn up with your four-legged friends and let the fun begin!
For more information:www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/companion_animals
Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 9/6/2014: click on Logo.
To contact Julian: editor@scotlandisland.org.au
Bushcare Dates - June 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 June 8
Bangalley Head 9-12pm
Catherine Park 10-12:30pm
W’wood Wetlands 9-12pm
Fri June 13
Bilgola Beach 8-11am
Sat June 14
Mona Vale Dunes 8:30-11:30am
Coopers Pt 10-1pm
Woodlands Res 9-12pm
Sun June 15
Angophora Res 8:30-11:30am
Crescent Res 9-12pm
Elanora Rd 9-12pm
Elanora Bushcare Planting Day 9-12pm
Thu June 19
Mona Vale Dunes 8:30-11:30am
Sat June 21
Toongari Res 8-11am
Old Wharf Res 8-11am
Nth Palm Beach 9-12pm
Pathilda Res 9-12pm
Irrawong Res 1-4pm
Sun June 22
Bungan Beach 8-11am
Win Bay 9-12pm
Wed June 25
W’wood Beach 8-11am
Sat June 28
Pindari Res 8-11am
Nth Newport Beach 8:30-11:30am
Careel Creek 8:30-11:30am
Kywong Res 8:30-11:30am
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 May - 2014
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.
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.
Old Mal Day
See one of Australia's largest collections of old mals and memorabilia on display.
At Bennett Surfboards
180 Harbord Rd, Brookvale, New South Wales, Australia 2100
Johnson Brothers Mitre10 - Trade Day 2014
Annual Trade Day with an afternoon of never to be repeated prices, giveaways and more
Thursday, June 26 at 12:00pm - 6:00pm: 51 Bassett Street Mona Vale, NSW, Australia
Knit Woolies for Orphaned Animals
Every day WIRES volunteers are taking orphaned young marsupials youngsters like brushtail possums, swamp wallaby joeys, wombats, gliders, bandicoots, ringtail possums and many others, in their care. But they need a safe, warm environment similar to their mothers pouch, that they would normally be if they weren't in care.
The inner liner is changed frequently often after each feed which can mean up to 6 pouches being needed or just one joey every 24 hours. Many WIRES carers have multiple joeys in care at any given time and the number of pouches used each day can climb very quickly. On average a carer will often have 20-30 pouches in the wash at any given time.
The size of the pouches needed, changes depending on both the age of the joey and the species. In all cases the regular washing required means the life span of each pouch is limited and the need for pouches is ongoing.
You can help, the sewing and knitting required is fairly basic and there is a factsheet available to explain sizes and material requirements. The main requirement is the inner linings must be 100% cotton and the outer knitted pouches must be pure wool. Synthetic materials do not breathe and are not appropriate.
If you'd like to help you can download the fact sheet atwww.wires.org.au/component/content/article/67-newsflash/248-pouches-for-wildlife.htm
RPAYC announce Mid Winter One Design Regatta Friday 6 June 2014
The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club invites all eligible International One Design Classes including Etchells, Ynglings, Dragons, Melges 24/32, Vipers, Stars, Elliott 7s and others to compete in the inaugural mid winter One Design Regatta hosted by the RPAYC on the week-end of the 12th and 13th of July, 2014.
Racing will be held inshore from 1100hrs and will be a windward / leeward course, with up to six races across the two days on the waters of Pittwater, most likely in the bid pond just north of Scotland Island. A social BBQ and prize giving will be held on Sunday afternoon post racing in Halyards bistro and bar.
Eligible boats must enter via the online entry system available on the RPAYC website at:
www.rpayc.com.au/yacht-racing/regatta-and-championships
The Notice of Race and other race documents and entry can be viewed using the same link as above.
Berthing is available to all visiting boats, contact RPAYC Waterfront to arrange allocations.
A large fleet of Etchells is expected for the One Design winter regatta in July
Pittwater Etchells sailor and RPAYC member, Jill Connell says, “This is a great opportunity for One Design class sailors wanting some more regatta competition during winter to join us on Pittwater for a couple of great days of racing. We would like to see as many One Design boats on Pittwater so please come and join in the mid winter regatta.”
Entry fee is $110 and entries close Wednesday 9 July.
For further details contact the RPAYC Sailing Office on 02 9998 3760 or email sailing@rpayc.com.au.
By Damian Devine, Marketing & Publicity Manager, RPAYC
Dragons will be racing in the Mid Winter Regatta hosted by the RPAYC
Lamont Lounge - Album pre launch for Natasha and Soiree for Soibada
The inaugural “Lamont Lounge” was held this weekend at Palm Beach Golf Club (6-7 June) and was a huge success. Pittwater certainly has got talent! The audience were treated to a wonderful night of entertainment organised by Aryana Lamont and her fabulous team. The event was not only an opportunity for Natasha Kavanagh to pre-launch her album “Wicked Souls” but also a chance for the many young local performers to showcase their talent. In true Pittwater Community style charity abounds and the team opted to donate the profits to Soibada.
Aryana Lamont said, “I was really proud of my dancers, staff and their families as they joined together for a great night for a great cause. Natasha Kavanagh sang beautifully , a mix of tunes for all the audience to enjoy. She sang one of the songs from her soon to be released EP Album, “Wicked Souls”. Natasha and I decided to give a donation to Soibada, East Timor, Pittwater’s sister village from the profits. We thank everyone for their love and support, we live in a great place!
NEWS FROM FRIENDS OF NARRABEEN LAGOON CATCHMENT INC
Free Kayak tours to see Black Swans on Narrabeen Lagoon
The number of Black Swans making Narrabeen Lagoon their home is continuing to increase, according to Tony Carr, president of Friends of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment. Mr Carr said that his organisation carries out regular counts and in recent weeks the total has grown from 30 to 44.
“It’s not the breeding season so clearly the lagoon environment is ideal for these beautiful creatures because it’s attracting more of them,” he said.
Mr Carr will lead free paddles to the Western Basin, Deep and Middle Creeks on Sunday June 15 at 1pm and again on Sunday September 28. More dates will be added if there is demand. The Lagoon supports a wide range of threatened flora and fauna and Deep Creek attracts migratory birds from as far away as Russia. BYO suitable boat or a hire kayak can be arranged at a small charge. No previous kayaking experience required – tuition will be given. To register email tonycarr@ozemail.com.au or call 0417 502 056.
Friends of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment also conducts regular bushwalks, led by Conny Harris. Upcoming walks include the Oxford Fall triangle on Sunday July 13, Cromer Circle on Saturday August 2 and Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment Traverse on Sunday August 31.
There is no charge for participation. For more information and to register phone 0432 643 295. Details atwww.narrabeenlagoon.org.au
1921 - 2012: 'A NEWPORT STORY' – by JOHN ILLINGSWORTH Published on Jun 4, 2014
Describes the common lot of many Australian children of the Great Depression: hardship, hunger, lack of opportunity and education broken by WWII in the Middle East and New Guinea. Following discharge came marriage, family and the postwar boom.
Mona Vale Library e-books Did You Know?
The Library has launched its collection of eBooks. They are now available via the Library web site from two suppliers – Axis360 from Baker and Taylor and Wheeler’s. Instructions for use are available on the web site or printed in a brochure available at the front service desk. New titles will be added to the collection on a regular basis. If there is a title you would like to suggest please complete the New Book Suggestion form available from the Library home page and note that you are interested in the eBook version of the title.
Mona Vale Library’s 10th birthday in September. There will be various events to celebrate our tenth birthday. More details to follow.
Mona Vale Library Talks - Forthcoming Events: June-August, 2014
June
Thursday 26 June – Jo Riccioni – “The Italians at Cleat’s Corner Store”- a debut novel, inspired by the author’s own family history and her grandfather’s experiences as an Italian prisoner of war in England, at 6.30pm, cost $8/$6 concession.
July
Thursday 10 July – Elizabeth Postle – “A Healing Hug for Alzheimer’s Caregivers”- a former nurse speaking about grief and sympathy - a FREE community talk at 2pm.
August
Thursday 14 August – Doug Purdie – “Backyard Bees” an urban beekeeping pioneer and self-described ‘beevangelist’ on keeping bees, at 6.30pm, cost $8/$6 concession.
Bookings essential for ALL talks on 9970 1600 and payment within 3 days required as confirmation for the paid author talks. Cards must be shown for pensioners and students for concession price.
FREE FOR ALL SCHOOL STUDENTS
The above talks will be held at Mona Vale Library, Park Street,Mona Vale
Proudly Presents Multi Award Winning Pianist
Alexey Yemtsov
Back by popular demand. Performing
Chopin’s Fantaisie in F minor
Ballades no. 3 & 4, Grande Valse op.42.
Prokofiev’s Sonata no. 6 and the Piano Reduction of Romeo & Juliet
A sparkling wine High Tea will be served after the performance.
Sunday 15th June 2014 at 2.30pm: Loquat Valley Anglican Prep School, 1977 Pittwater Road Bayview
Single tickets $20, School Students $10 or free when accompanied by an adult. Tickets available at the door.
Enq. 9999-1937, 9972-3556, 0407-441-213. Doors open at 2pm
Guringai Music Showcase featuring Christine Anu, Evie J Willie & Marcus Corowa - Friday, 20 June 2014
DOORS OPEN at 6PM Enjoy an amazing night with one of Australia's most successful indigenous performers at Lizotte's Dee Why. She'll be joined by the inspiring soul singer and songwriter, Evie J Willie and X-Factor 2012 runner-up, Jason Owen for what will be an amazing night of great music and great food. This event will be a true celebration of the Guringai Festival 2014.
Founded in 2001, the Guringai Festival aims to raise awareness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in the Northern Sydney region. The festival starts on Sorry Day 26 May and goes through to the end of NAIDOC Week, the second week in July each year. The festival involves 11 councils and numerous reconciliation and community groups. Events include workshops, art exhibitions, performances, films and talks.
Tickets $35.00 HERE
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 – June 4th, 2014
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.
UNIQUE VEHICLE SHOW
The Royal Motor Yacht Club Broken Bay (at Newport) will be holding its 7th Annual “UNIQUE VEHICLE SHOW" on Sunday 22nd June 2014.
An "unusual" event for a Yacht Club you might think, but "boaties" do have many other interests, and an enthusiasm for all things mechanical is certainly one of them! We are very excited with the amount of interest we have received from people keen to display their vehicles, and particularly from members of the Pittwater Motor Enthusiasts who help with the day’s planning.
There will be over 60 vehicles on display including everything from beautifully restored Vintage cars, Classics & Sports Cars, Hot Rods & Motorcycles.
The displays will be located in the waterfront car park at the Royal Motor Yacht Club, 46 Prince Alfred Parade, Newport - starting at 10am and finishing at 3pm. Entry is free - members of the Public are welcome but will need to sign the appropriate temporary visitor form if they wish to use the Club Brasserie or other facilities. There will be great entertainment throughout the day.
A different day out for the whole family, and this year the historic MV Reliance ferry will be operating from Rowland Reserve Boat Ramp and Newport Public Wharf providing a great way of getting to and from the Yacht Club and enjoying a 10 minute boat trip at the same time – Cost $5.00 per person each way!
We look forward to seeing you here at the RMYC!
For more information in regard to this event and the ferry service operating on the day, please contact the RMYC office during business hours – 9997 5511.
Prostate cancer testing is on trial 3 June 2014
The University of Sydney's School of Public Health is seeking people to participate in a "community jury" to independently asses the process of Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) testing in Australia.
The PSA test is often used to test healthy men to see whether they have prostate cancer. However, experts disagree about whether, when and how the PSA test should be used for this purpose.
Chief investigator of the study, Associate Professor Stacy Carter, said this study is important because although many men are concerned about prostate cancer, the messages they receive can be confusing.
"Our research team is calling out for participants to be part of a community jury to consider how men and their GPs should approach PSA testing," she said.
"We will present the current evidence and then ask people to consider, debate and decide the best way to manage PSA testing for prostate cancer in otherwise healthy men.
"Those arguing for the PSA test say it can save men's lives and may prevent problems from development of primary and secondary tumours. Those arguing against it say it leads to many men being unnecessarily harmed.
"Because of this genuine disagreement over the merits of the PSA, men and their GPs are in a difficult position when trying to decide what to do."
The PSA test measures the blood level of PSA, a protein that is produced by the prostate gland. Although a higher PSA level may indicate a higher risk of prostate cancer, there are other, non-cancer related reasons for having an elevated PSA level. And some men who have prostate cancer do not have elevated PSA.
"Prostate cancer is a fatal disease for a minority of men and the PSA test is intended to identify the cancer early so that it can be treated and prevent life-threatening disease," Associate Professor Carter said.
"But there is a disagreement about whether screening is beneficial as many men can have prostate cancer diagnosed but not experience physical symptoms or difficulties. This means detecting prostate cancer early will not necessarily reduce the chance of dying from prostate cancer.
"The concern about the PSA is that the test can provide false positive results, as well as false negative results. It can also lead to over-diagnosis (detecting tumours that aren't life threatening) and over-treatment (treating tumours that aren't life threatening).
"Overtreatment exposes men unnecessarily to the potential complications and harmful side effects of treatments for early prostate cancer, including surgery and radiation therapy. The side effects of these treatments can include urinary incontinence, problems with bowel function, and erectile dysfunction.
"This project aims to answer what the moral obligations of GPs are in respect to PSA testing, and what should constitute informed consent to perform a PSA test.
"We are recruiting participants for a series of community juries to consider this problem. A community jury is like a jury in a court room. Expert witnesses present evidence and information, and then the jury debates and comes to a conclusion.
"We are keen to involve all sorts of people of voting age: older and younger, men and women.
"We will be running four separate juries, in July, August and October at the University of Sydney in Camperdown. Research has shown that people who participate in a community jury find it a highly rewarding experience," Associate Professor Carter said.
This project is part of a larger study examining the role of values, ethics, and evidence in cancer screening policy and practice. It is a collaborative initiative involving academics from the University of Sydney's School of Public Health, Centre for Values, Ethics and the Law in Medicine, University of Notre Dame's School of Medicine, Cancer Council Australia, and the SAX Institute.
To find out more about the community juries please call 02 9036 3427 or email cancer.screening@sydney.edu.au or visit http://cancerscreeningethics.org/
TEDX Pittwater!
Very excited to announce that TEDxPittwater will be held on Saturday July 5th 2014 in the Mona Vale Town Hall from 10am - 4.30pm. We have an amazing line up of speakers. Have a look at the website www.tedxpittwater.com
TEDxPittwater are looking for volunteers to help leading up to and on the day.
Needed:
• People to video and edit the talks (with 2 camera angles and good sound) for the TEDx YouTube channel.
• Front of house team to sign in our guests and seat them.
• Graphic designer to help with power point presentations leading up to the event.
If you are able to help us out let us know. You will have free access to the event and passes to the after party.
TEDxPittwater : Blue Skies - Saturday July 5 2014 10 am - 4.30 pm - a celebration of the great diversity of ideas worth sharing in Pittwater.
Website www.tedxpittwater.com
Speakers: www.tedxpittwater.com/speakers.html
Tickets $30.00 plus book fee at: HERE
Deep Creek Riparian Ecosystem Catchment Project
Pittwater Council has been successful in securing grant funding for the Deep Creek Riparian Ecosystem Catchment Project. The grant funding is from Greater Sydney Local Land Services and will support bush regeneration, habitat creation and riparian restoration within Deep Creek, Bilarong Reserve and the Elanora Bushcare site. The project is funded for a 12 month period, and will link with Council bush regeneration maintenance and hazard reduction work already being undertaken at the site. The project aims to reduce threats to biodiversity and enhance the condition, connectivity and resilience of habitats and landscapes.
Part of the project is to increase community awareness of environmental issues and management strategies to protect and care for this significant coastal area. Council will be undertaking community event days with planting at various locations within the project site, including the Elanora Road Bushcare site.
Council will also hold native plant giveaways for local residents to encourage the planting of locally native species on private properties. Please join us at any of these project events to help preserve and protect the Deep Creek Catchment! For more information please contact the Bushcare Officer on 9970 1367 or email bushcare@pittwater.nsw.gov.au.
Project Events
Elanora Road Planting Day
When: Sunday 15 June, 9am to 12pm Where: Meet adjacent the driveway of 15 Elanora Road, Elanora Heights
Pets 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
Turf Australia and Junior Landcare’s 2014 Perfect Pitch of Green Program Now Open for Entries
In celebration of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, Junior Landcare and the representative body for turf growers, Turf Australia, are offering 10 schools or youth groups (including sports clubs that involve young people) natural turf to makeover an area up to 200 square metres, slightly bigger than the goalmouth area of a standard sporting field, and the perfect amount for refreshing an outdoor classroom. The grass can be used to update sports areas, enhance outdoor learning areas, or create more spaces for playing.
Who can apply?
This program is only open to schools, community and youth groups and sporting clubs that are considered “Not for Profit” such as:
Schools including preschools, kindergartens, primary and high schools across Australia.
Youth groups including scouts, girl guides and other community organisations that involve and support young people as a key component of their activities and services.
Sporting clubs that actively involve and support young people in their activities and programs.
To apply, simply download an entry form and explain how natural turf will make a positive difference to your school – applications close on Tuesday, 1st July. See Here for more details
Southern Cross Wildlife Care - Critter of the Month - June 2014
St Ives Medieval Faire!
Hear ye! Hear ye! Fair maidens and knights of Ku-ring-gai! The St Ives Medieval Faire is happening in September. It's going to be an action packed weekend of fun for the whole family. Check out the clip below for a hint of what's in store. All things Medieval, Jousting, Birds of Prey, Battles, Trebuchet, Archery, Armour, Chainmail.
VENUE: St Ives Showground, 420 Mona Vale Road, Sydney
Tickets are on sale here: www.stivesmedievalfaire.com.au/
Australians to have their say on teacher education - Media Release
Australians will be able to have their say on putting students first and creating excellence in teacher education with a public consultation process beginning today. Minister for Education, the Hon Christopher Pyne said lifting the quality, professionalism and status of the teaching profession is at the heart of the Government’s Students First policy.
“This Government knows there is nothing more important to a child’s education than having great teachers,” Mr Pyne said.
“That’s why teacher quality is one of the four pillars of our Students First policy and the reason for establishing this expert Teacher Education Ministerial Advisory Group.”
The public consultation process will include meetings with representatives from a range of education bodies including teacher employers, the Australian Council of Deans of Education, Universities Australia and the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership.
The Advisory Group will seek submissions from interested parties in response to the Issues Paper.
The Advisory Group will also conduct a benchmark study of world’s best practice in teacher education programmes.
“Strengthening the curriculum also forms part of our Students First policy, but just as important as having a robust curriculum is having teachers who can deliver it effectively.”
“These consultations will help the advisory group put together strong, evidence-based recommendations for improving teacher education.
“This is part of our commitment to creating a world-class education system that puts students first and helps young Australians achieve educational excellence and great jobs.
“I encourage people to contribute to the public consultation process.”
“All submissions will help inform the next steps the Government takes to ensure teacher education programmes better prepare new teachers with the practical skills needed for the classroom.”
Submissions will be accepted until 5:30pm (AEST) on Friday 13 June 2014.
Any interested party is eligible to make a submission, as an individual or on behalf of an organisation (where authorised to do so).
Under the Students First approach, the Australian Government will work with the states and territories to focus on four key areas that will make a difference to students:
• teacher quality
• school autonomy
• engaging parents in education
• strengthening the curriculum
To find out more, and to read the Issues Paper, go towww.studentsfirst.gov.au/teacher-education-ministerial-advisory-group
SNIPPET: The Government recognises the Annual Wage Decision handed down by the independent arbiter, the Fair Work Commission. The Government is focused on building a stronger and more prosperous economy to provide stronger employment growth. Small business employers are encouraged to contact the Small Business Line on 13 13 94.
Revealing the sources of Sydney's air pollution - ANSTO
SNIPPET: Fine particles in our atmosphere can travel hundreds of kilometres every day. This demonstration project has found that up to half of the total sulfate air pollution in the greater Sydney region can be attributed to emissions from NSW's eight coal-fired power stations. The site was influenced by sources from within the Sydney CBD region and sources external to the greater metropolitan area, such as the power stations.
$20.1 Million to Fix Black Spots in New South Wales
SNIPPET: Federal Member for Calare. Sherwood Road and Centenary Road. From Turton Road to Market Street.
ABS announces planned changes to future work program
SNIPPET: 'The quality, integrity and relevance of our statistics are critical to informing effective decision making and we must not lose sight of that as we plan for the future,' Mr Palmer said. The work program changes, which will be implemented from 1 July 2014, are:. Further details of the work program changes will be advised to affected users in due course.
ACCC proposes to reauthorise brick levy to help with bricklayer shortage | ACCC
SNIPPET: The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission is proposing to re-authorise the brick and block manufacturing industry to continue to apply a levy on the sale of clay brick and concrete masonry products. The Australian Brick & Blocklaying Training Foundation (ABBTF), Think Brick Australia and the Concrete Masonry Association of Australia are seeking to apply the levy to fund programs to address a shortage of trained bricklayers. The programs funded by the levy help address the problem of a shortage of bricklayers, by making it easier to take on an apprentice, which will encourage more bricklayers to do so, ACCC Commissioner Dr Jill Walker said.
National Accounts - March Quarter 2014 | The Hon Joe Hockey MP
SNIPPET: The National Accounts data released today show that the Australian economy grew 1.1percent in the March quarter2014 and 3.5percent over the year. Net exports were the largest contributor to growth in the March quarter, reflecting strong export growth in the mining sector as a result of unusually low levels of cyclonerelated disruptions. Consistent with balance of payments data released yesterday, the National Accounts show that exports of goods and services increased 4.8percent in the March quarter while imports fell 1.4percent. Nominal GDPthe dollar value of goods and services produced in the economyincreased 1.1percent in the March quarter to be 4.9percent higher over the past year. Australia's terms of trade fell 1.2percent in the March quarter, while growth in domestic prices was subdued.
ACCC proposes to authorise Victorian newsagent collective bargaining | ACCC
SNIPPET: The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has issued a draft determination proposing to allow the Victorian Association of Newsagents (VANA) to negotiate on behalf of its members with six magazine and newspaper publishers. Collective bargaining allows newsagents to share negotiation resources and co-ordinate their approach to publishers, ACCC Deputy Chair Dr Michael Schaper said. Should this authorisation also be granted, Victorian newsagents will have a choice of collective bargaining arrangements.
Screen Australia invests in 12 diverse projects across film, television and multiplatform
SNIPPET: Funding for audience-engaging features of any genre. In the final round of drama funding for the financial year, Screen Australia announces production investment in 12 projects including two feature films, a television series and nine multiplatform programs. is a musical comedy series for ABC2 and iView based on the Barry-award winning live comedy show by and.
Investing in our region's emerging leaders
SNIPPET: Today, I am pleased to launch the Australia Awards Leadership Conference, which brings together 130 of the most outstanding Australia Awards scholars from 47 developing countries. The Australian Government will continue to invest in the Australia Awards, a $350 million investment to develop the next generation of leaders in our region. In 2014/15 the global Australia Awards program budget increased by $31.7 million (this is an increase of around 29.5 per cent), that will ensure we offer around 4,500 scholarships. These scholars will receive a first-class education at an Australian university and develop leadership capabilities in their chosen profession that empower them to effect positive change and economic growth within their communities.
Study shows more Australians participating in the arts - Ministry for the Arts
SNIPPET: Thursday 5 June 2014. New Australia Council research shows 95 per cent of Australians have engaged with the arts in the past 12 months.
Government spent $7bn on cultural activities in 201213 - Ministry for the Arts
SNIPPET: Wednesday 4 June 2014. Australia's federal, state and local governments spent just over $7 billion on cultural activities during 2012-13, according to new figures released today by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). State and territory governments contributed nearly half this amount or $3.3 billion, the federal government contributed one-third or $2.4 billion, and local government contributed $1.4 billion, on cultural activities said Mr Andrew Middleton, Director of Culture, Recreation and Migration Statistics at the ABS.
Australia condemns Syria's Presidential election
SNIPPET: Australia joins with the international community in rejecting the Presidential election held by the Assad regime on 3 June. Syria's worsening civil war is now in its fourth year and the Syrian people are suffering in the worst humanitarian crisis facing the world today. Australia has repeatedly called for an inclusive political process that can bring an end to the conflict, in line with the principles of the Geneva Communiqu.
Exports to key Asian trade partners increase
SNIPPET: The Australian Bureau of Statistics Trade in Goods and Services April data released today shows that Australian exports have increased 11 per cent from last year with resources exports increasing 19 per cent. Australia has experienced four consecutive months of surpluses including a $900 million surplus in March, before experiencing a trade deficit this month of just $122 million and a minor fall in exports of just 1.5 per cent in April, underpinning Australia's strong economic position. Australia has also increased exports across ASEAN nations and North Asia and the conclusion of the Korean and Japanese Free Trade Agreements will provide even greater opportunities to facilitate trade relationships for Australian exporters.
China leads growth in tourism numbers from Asia
SNIPPET: Trade and Investment Minister Andrew Robb today welcomed the results of the latest International Visitor Survey (IVS) that shows Australia has experienced significant growth across a number of Asian markets, as well as record growth from the United States. The jobs of over 929,000 Australians are linked to tourism and the Coalition Government is committed to supporting tourism as a key job creation industry, Mr Robb said. These latest figures show that China is still Australia's largest market, outside of New Zealand, with Chinese visitors increasing their expenditure in the Australian economy to $5.1 billion, while we also remain very competitive in the challenging United States tourism market.
Pharmacy software vendor links to TGA adverse event reporting web service
SNIPPET: info@tga.gov.au | 1800 020 653 | More contact info Translate | Subscribe. The aim of the TGA's adverse event reporting web service is to complement, but not replace, the existing avenues for adverse event reporting by offering a faster and more convenient way to report. Development of the adverse event reporting web service is one of a number of projects that the TGA is undertaking to encourage adverse event reporting by health professionals by:.
Indigenous Knowledge Centre to Help Reduce Alcohol and Substance Misuse
SNIPPET: A new national information service has been established to support the reduction of alcohol and other drug misuse in Indigenous communities. PDF printable version of Indigenous Knowledge Centre to Help Reduce Alcohol and Substance Misuse (PDF 278 KB). Giving the opening address at the 3rd National Indigenous Drug & Alcohol Conference (NIDAC) in Melbourne today, Minister Nash said the Australian Indigenous Alcohol and Other Drugs Knowledge Centre's new information service would particularly benefit health workers so they could better support Indigenous people to prevent and manage alcohol and substance misuse.
Ranger given approval to restart processing
SNIPPET: The Australian Minister for Industry, Ian Macfarlane, and Northern Territory Minister for Mines and Energy, Willem Westra van Holthe, have provided Energy Resources Australia (ERA) with approval to restart the Ranger processing plant. The report found that ERA had developed a staged approach to the restart and that their restart plan was appropriate and represented effective practice. On this basis, the report recommended that ERA be given approval to commence the implementation of the company's restart plan.
Investing in the skilled workers of the future
SNIPPET: The Australian Government is investing in national productivity gains and the skilled workers of the future, today delivering its plan for the $1.9 billion Trade Support Loans to equip young apprentices with the skills for real world jobs. Trade Support Loans will help more apprentices complete their training and get the skills they need to fill the jobs that businesses want. Our Trade Support Loans are a responsible investment in the nation's future tradespeople.
ATSB seeks specialist services for MH370 search
SNIPPET: The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) is Australia's national transport safety investigator. The ATSB today released a request for tender to acquire the services of a specialist company capable of conducting a deep-water search under ATSB direction for missing Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370. The search vessel(s) used by the prime contractor may also be coordinated with other vessels also undertaking search activities in the search zone on behalf of other countries.
Pormpuraaw and Kowanyama Take Flight
SNIPPET: Pormpuraaw Airstrip in Far North Queensland will benefit from $790,000 announced today by the Australian Government for essential safety upgrades. 'An additional $225,000 has also been announced for an expanded upgrade project at Kowanyama aerodrome,' Mr Truss said. 'This upgrade is vital for the community in Pormpuraaw and the wider region that the airstrip services, providing access for air passenger transport services, freight companies, the Royal Flying Doctor Service and Australia Post,' Mr Entsch said.
Screen Australia and Sydney Film Festival announce filmmaker masterclass
SNIPPET: Funding for audience-engaging features of any genre. The 61st Sydney Film Festival is supported by the NSW Government through Screen NSW, the Federal Government through Screen Australia, and the City of Sydney. : Sydney Film Festival.
ABC and Shanghai Media Group sign international agreement
SNIPPET: The ABC and China's Shanghai Media Group (SMG) have signed an extensive media agreement in Sydney today (Wednesday, June 4) expanding cooperation into drama and children's programming, increasing co-operation in the sharing of news and paving the way for the ABC to establish a commercial base in Shanghai and open an online portal in China. This agreement with the Shanghai Media Group marks the moment when ABC and SMG can move forward with our joint plans to expand content and program sharing between the two organisations, Mr Spigelman said. SMG's Executive Vice President, Madame Wang said: The Shanghai Media Group and the ABC have had a long term international partnership and both sides have a high regard and considerable respect for each other as television broadcasters and as innovators in new media.
SNIPPET: At 12pm on Wednesday 4 June ABC Classic FM will launch. The blog is managed by ABC Classic FM's Online Editor, Angela Stengel, and a team of Classic 2 writers. Performing soloists featured on Classic 2 include Diana Doherty, Slava and Leonard Grigoryan, Elizabeth Wallfisch, Roger Woodward, Karin Schaupp, Anna Goldsworthy, Gerard Willems, Marshall McGuire, Nick Parnell, Sally Whitwell, Anna Goldsworthy and Simon Tedeschi whilst ensembles featured include the Australian Chamber Orchestra, Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, Australian Piano Quartet, Australian Brandenburg Orchestra, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, West Australian Symphony Orchestra, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Orchestra Victoria, Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Opera Australia, Queensland Philharmonia, Queensland Symphony Orchestra, Melbourne Chamber Orchestra, Australian String Quartet, Sydney Chamber Choir, Syzygy Ensemble, Australian Youth Orchestra, Perth Symphony Orchestra, Sydney Philharmonia, Guitar Trek, Ironwood Ensemble, Darwin
Velocity Frequent Flyer becomes first loyalty program to partner with Australia Post- Australia Post
SNIPPET: Velocity Frequent Flyer, the award-winning loyalty program of Virgin Australia, has today announced it will become the first loyalty program in Australia to join forces with Australia Post. The first stage of the partnership will see Velocity Frequent Flyer offer its members the ability to earn Points on everyday bill payments and other online transactions through Australia Post's MyPost Digital Mailbox. Australia Post Chief Executive Officer, Ahmed Fahour said, This partnership with Virgin Australia is testament to the ongoing success and innovation of MyPost Digital Mailbox and the Velocity Frequent Flyer program.
Air Warfare Destroyer added to Projects of Concern list
SNIPPET: Minister for Defence Senator David Johnston today announced that the Air Warfare Destroyer (AWD) Project will be placed on the Projects of Concern (PoC) list. I have accepted the recommendation of the CEO of the Defence Materiel Organisation Warren King that the project be added to the list to better address the risks and ensure that this important project is delivered successfully, Senator Johnston said. The Air Warfare Destroyer will be a central component of the Navy's future surface capability.
Joint Putting the Air Warfare Destroyer program back on track
SNIPPET: Today we are announcing the way forward for the $8.5 billion Air Warfare Destroyer program, dealing with a range of unresolved structural and systemic issues that have remained unaddressed for too long. That was why in December 2013 we announced the establishment of an independent review into the Air Warfare Destroyer program. The Government is totally committed to put this important Defence project back on track and to stop the growing cost and schedule overruns by implementing the recommendations for a Reform Strategy made by the Winter Review.
Part of Maralinga Lands excised for traditional owners at Woomera
SNIPPET: The traditional owners of the Maralinga Tjarutja Lands will now have unrestricted access to the area after it was excised from the Woomera Prohibited Area (WPA) by the Australian Government. Minister for Defence Senator David Johnston and Minister for Indigenous Affairs Senator Nigel Scullion announced today the remaining part of land known as Section 400' would be excised from the WPA following a request from the Maralinga Tjarutja people. Senator Scullion said with the support of the Australian Government, the Maralinga Tjarutja people have already developed a successful tourism enterprise conducting guided tours of the atomic test sites and Maralinga Village.
Defence releases new guidelines for the use of alcohol in the ADF
SNIPPET: Defence today released new guidelines that aim to minimise alcohol related harm in the Australian Defence Force (ADF). The Australian Defence Force Alcohol Management Strategy and Plan 2014-17 (ADFAMS) is a landmark document that sets out a four-year framework for improving alcohol management and reducing the negative impact of alcohol on the health, safety and capability of the ADF. The supporting tools and materials include an ADF Behaviour Expectations Statement endorsed by the Chief of the Defence Force, a Leaders Guide to Alcohol Management and an ADF Event Management Guide.
Partnership strengthened as exercise concludes : Department of Defence
SNIPPET: One of the most significant exercises for Australia and its regional security partners has concluded. The exercise focused on building our capability to work with the Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA) member nations, Commander Jacobson said.
SNIPPET: Minister for Defence Senator David Johnston today congratulated Chief of the Defence Force General David Hurley on his appointment as the next New South Wales Governor. His leadership and dedication, including his tenure as Vice Chief, and then as Chief of the Defence Force, has been fundamental in shaping the Australian Defence Force of today, Senator Johnston said. As the Chief of the Defence Force, he has led the Australian Defence Force to the end of operations in Uruzgan province, Timor-Leste, and the Solomon Islands.
Bill tightens compliance measures for job seekers
SNIPPET: Assistant Minister for Employment Luke Hartsuyker today introduced legislation into the House of Representatives to strengthen compliance measures for job seekers. The Social Security Legislation Amendment (Stronger Penalties for Serious Failure) Bill 2014 tightens the rules for job seekers who refuse a job or persistently fail to meet their requirements. 'This Bill will ensure that all job seekers who refuse an offer of suitable work -or fail to accept a suitable job - are required to serve the legislated eight-week non-payment period.
ACCC authorises collective bargaining by APESMA | ACCC
SNIPPET: The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has granted authorisation to the Association of Professional Engineers, Scientists and Managers, Australia (APESMA) to implement collective bargaining arrangements for translator and interpreter members who operate as independent contractors. Membership to APESMA is voluntary. Members currently comprise a small proportion of the industry, participation is voluntary and does not involve a collective boycott.
ACCC grants authorisation to Tasmanian councils for joint recycling tender | ACCC
SNIPPET: The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has granted authorisation to Clarence, Glenorchy and Hobart city councils to tender jointly for services to process recyclables. Combining the tonnage volumes of each of the councils may also increase competition for the tender, as the greater volume may be more attractive to recycling processors. Authorisation provides statutory protection from court action for conduct that might otherwise raise concerns under the competition provisions of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 Broadly, the ACCC may grant an authorisation when it is satisfied that the public benefit from the conduct outweighs any public detriment.
Competition issues at the forefront in aviation | ACCC
SNIPPET: Competition issues have featured prominently in the rapidly changing aviation sector, ACCC Commissioner Dr Jill Walker said today at the Swinburne Aviation Industry Conference in Melbourne. While alliances and code-sharing can promote efficient and competitive markets, they can also raise competition concerns and may require scrutiny under the Competition and Consumer Act. There are many competition issues at play within the aviation industry, Dr Walker said.
Professor Suzanne Cory AC to present the ABC's 55th Boyer Lecture series | About the ABC
SNIPPET: Mr James Spigelman AC, Chairman of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), is delighted to announce that the 2014 Boyer Lecture series will be presented by Professor Suzanne Cory AC, one of Australia's most distinguished molecular biologists whose research has had a major impact on the understanding of immunology and the development of cancer. Since 1959 the ABC Board has selected a prominent Australian or group of Australians to present a series of radio lectures, expressing their thoughts on major social, cultural, scientific or political issues, and Professor Cory is no exception, Mr Spigelman said. The Boyer Lecture series was named after former ABC Chairman, the late Sir Richard Boyer.
Australia's response to Thailand's coup
SNIPPET: The Australian Government continues to have grave concerns about the actions of the military in Thailand. Australia has postponed three activities planned for coming weeks in Thailand: a military operations law training course for Thai military officers a reconnaissance visit for a counter improvised explosive device training exercise and a reconnaissance visit for a counter terrorism training exercise. The Australian Government has also put in place a mechanism to prevent the leaders of the coup from travelling to Australia.
At-risk Afghan employees settled in Australia
SNIPPET: More than 500 Afghan nationals who were employed in support of Australia's mission in Afghanistan, together with their families, have now been granted visas to Australia under the 2013-14 refugee and humanitarian programme. Government representatives recently met the former Afghan employees and their family members to thank them for their support and welcome them to Australia. Following the completion of Australia's mission in Uruzgan and the departure of Australian Defence Force personnel from the province, Australia has shifted to a nationally orientated mission which will continue to provide training and advisory support to the Afghan National Security Forces.'.
Statement at Opening Senate Budget Estimates
SNIPPET: I wish to note this will be the last Senate Estimates Hearing for General David Hurley, AC, DSC, who completes his tenure as the Chief of the Defence Force on 3 July 2014. As the Chief of the Defence Force, he has led the Australian Defence Force to the end of operations in Uruzgan province, Timor-Leste, and the Solomon Islands. His leadership and dedication, including his tenure as Vice Chief, and then as Chief of the Defence Force, has been fundamental in shaping the Australian Defence Force of today.
Articles This Week
Women's Land Army Lady and Barrenjoey High School Student Attend 2014 Indigenous Commemorative Service at ANZAC Cenotaph-Hyde Park by Oliver Wyatt
Guyren Smith Newport Surf Club Clubman of The Year by John Guthrie
Pittwater's Lone Rangers - 120 Years of Ku-Ring-Gai Chase and the Men of Flowers Inspired by Eccleston Du Faur - preliminarily gazetted June 20th 1894 - World Environment Day - June 5th, 2014 Celebration
Aquatics: Mālama Honua Worldwide Voyage to Engage ‘Island Earth’ World Environment Day 2014 - the ancient knowledge embodied in Polynesian voyaging double-hulled canoes and methods of wayfinding, and sailed by the Hawaiian Polynesian Voyaging Society, are heading for Tahiti with fair winds from the right quadrant beginning an epic voyage of three years!
Pictures: Sea Eagles Players Join In Avalon Bulldogs J.R.F.L.C. Training Session
DIY Hints: How to Repair Scratches, Dings, and Dents of Furniture Surfaces - Part II - dents, and divots that mysteriously appear on wood surfaces can give it a rustic look but if you want to restore it to somewhere near its original beauty a few ideas on how to do this may come in handy.
Collector's Corner: Jolly Drover Sugar Bowl and English Pottery – A Means to Gaze into the Past: collecting pottery can be an inexpensive way to find out more about where these items came from and how cultural tastes shift - this sugar bowl is only 72 years old/young!
Artist of the Month: June 2014 - Lucinda Rose - One of our regular contributors is a wonderfully inspiring young lady who is developing her artistic skills in a wide range of mediums. Currently studying Fine Arts at COFA, Lucinda also has a passion for people that finds expression through her works and through doing. In July this year she hopes to travel as part of the team of the Pittwater Friends of Soibada to continue works already begun.
Profile of the Week: June 2014 - Pittwater Ladies Lucinda Rose- One of our regular contributors is a wonderfully inspiring young lady who is developing her artistic skills in a wide range of mediums, some of which feature on our June 2014 Artist of the Month page. Currently studying Fine Arts at COFA, Lucinda also has a passion for people that finds expression through her works and through doing. In July this year she hopes to travel as part of the team of the Pittwater Friends of Soibada to continue works already begun.
History: June 2014 - Pittwater's Lone Rangers - 120 Years of Ku-Ring-Gai Chase and the Men of Flowers Inspired by Eccleston Du Faur - World Environment Day 2014 Special The 4th page of Pittwater Communications - Early Pittwater Launches and Ferries In Pittwater will run in Issue 166
Pittwater Winner in Arts & Culture Awards - 30 May 2014
Pittwater Council was announced a winner at the Local Government Arts & Culture Awards held at NSW Parliament House on Tuesday 27 May.
The award was received for the Pittwater Arts Paper which led the pack in the ‘Creative Community Engagement’ category.
Pittwater Mayor Jacqueline Townsend said she was delighted with the recognition given to the Arts Paper.
“The award acknowledges the strength of the document and is also a reflection of our community’s response to local events and activities that have come about as a result of it,” said Mayor Townsend.
Place Manager Melinda Hewitt said the Arts Paper formed part of Pittwater’s Social Plan and was developed through extensive consultation with the arts community and local residents.
“The project offered us the chance to get a clearer understanding of audiences and creative professionals,“ she said.
Ms Hewitt said there were many more exciting arts projects planned in the coming months including the installation of Emma Anna’s imag_ne sculpture that will be returning to Pittwater on a permanent basis.
“Additionally, the Enliven Pittwater project was shortlisted in the ‘Developing Creative Industries’ category of the awards,” said Ms Hewitt.
“Enliven Pittwater was developed as a partnership between business leaders, Council and community members to strengthen the social, cultural and economic dynamic within Pittwater’s town and village centres,” she added.
For more information on arts and culture in Pittwater visitwww.pittwater.nsw.gov.au
Your future NSW to 2031: Population, Household & Dwelling Projections by NSW Planning - Published on 28 May 2014
The NSW Government has released updated population, household and dwelling projections for NSW, Sydney and regional areas with detailed breakdowns for all 152 LGAs. NSW is forecast to grow by 2 million people between 2011 and 2031, with the population of Sydney expected to grow by 1.6 million and the rest of NSW by 400,000 people.
The new figures - developed by the Department of Planning and Environment's Centre for Demography Research and Policy - will help state and local government plan for services and infrastructure to ensure resources are targeted to where they are most needed.
UNIQUE VEHICLE SHOW
The Royal Motor Yacht Club Broken Bay (at Newport) will be holding its 7th Annual “UNIQUE VEHICLE SHOW" on Sunday 22nd June 2014.
An "unusual" event for a Yacht Club you might think, but "boaties" do have many other interests, and an enthusiasm for all things mechanical is certainly one of them! We are very excited with the amount of interest we have received from people keen to display their vehicles, and particularly from members of the Pittwater Motor Enthusiasts who help with the day’s planning.
There will be over 60 vehicles on display including everything from beautifully restored Vintage cars, Classics & Sports Cars, Hot Rods & Motorcycles.
The displays will be located in the waterfront car park at the Royal Motor Yacht Club, 46 Prince Alfred Parade, Newport - starting at 10am and finishing at 3pm. Entry is free - members of the Public are welcome but will need to sign the appropriate temporary visitor form if they wish to use the Club Brasserie or other facilities. There will be great entertainment throughout the day.
A different day out for the whole family, and this year the historic MV Reliance ferry will be operating from Rowland Reserve Boat Ramp and Newport Public Wharf providing a great way of getting to and from the Yacht Club and enjoying a 10 minute boat trip at the same time – Cost $5.00 per person each way!
We look forward to seeing you here at the RMYC!
For more information in regard to this event and the ferry service operating on the day, please contact the RMYC office during business hours – 9997 5511.
PARKS, PEOPLE, PLANET: AWE-INSPIRING PICTURES Friday, 30 May 2014 - Rob Stokes MP Minister for the Environment Minister for Heritage Minister for the Central Coast Assistant Minister for Planning
Nature lovers from across the world are invited to submit photos for a photography competition to showcase the beauty and importance of national parks.
Environment Minister Rob Stokes said the competition is a celebration of the crucial role national parks play in sustaining the health of our planet. The photos will be on exhibition during the IUCN World Parks Congress in Sydney during November.
"The Saved photography competition encourages professional and amateur photographers, as well as Instagram lovers, to get out and about in our national parks and start snapping,” Rob Stokes said.
“NSW has some of the most diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes in the world. We are surrounded by beaches, wilderness and world heritage areas.
"We want to see what places you love to visit and the parks, animals and people living or working in the places that inspire you.”
“National parks not only conserve many threatened species but contribute to global food and water supplies and provide clean air, medicine and jobs for millions of people around the world.”
The competition categories are:
• Parks: images and stories about national parks of the world;
• People: images and stories about the interaction between people and nature; and
• Planet: images and stories about the sustainable use of natural resources in protected areas including the conservation of habitats and species.
Entries are due by 30 September and the winning pictures will be on display at the IUCN World Parks Congress to be held from 12 - 19 November in Sydney.
Fondly referred to as "Nature's Olympics" the event will bring together 160 countries and global experts from organisations including UNESCO, the United Nations Environment Program and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
You can submit photos via the competition websitewww.wpcsaved.com
Palm Beach and Avalon – Baby Dolphins About
Dolphins pods have been playing off south and north ends of many of our beaches this week, some with baby dolphins: please be aware if out and about in your boats and skis or on boards and exercise caution around this year’s youngsters.
TEDX Pittwater!
Very excited to announce that TEDxPittwater will be held on Saturday July 5th 2014 in the Mona Vale Town Hall from 10am - 4.30pm. We have an amazing line up of speakers. Have a look at the website www.tedxpittwater.com
TEDxPittwater are looking for volunteers to help leading up to and on the day.
Needed:
• People to video and edit the talks (with 2 camera angles and good sound) for the TEDx YouTube channel.
• Front of house team to sign in our guests and seat them.
• Graphic designer to help with power point presentations leading up to the event.
If you are able to help us out let us know. You will have free access to the event and passes to the after party.
TEDxPittwater : Blue Skies - Saturday July 5 2014 10 am - 4.30 pm - a celebration of the great diversity of ideas worth sharing in Pittwater.
Website www.tedxpittwater.com
Speakers: www.tedxpittwater.com/speakers.html
Tickets $30.00 plus book fee at: HERE
400in4 - The Cheque
Courtesy Narrabeen Fire Station
Every Fire & Rescue Station in NSW is assigned a station number. Narrabeen is 68, Manly 24, Dee Why 69 and so on.
There is however one very special station and number that is close to all Firefighter's hearts and one station number that you won't see a fire truck assigned too.
The Burns Unit at the Sydney Children's Hospital is known within Fire & Rescue as No. 2 Station.
Firefighters do amazing fund raising work every year for the Burn's Unit and for the little champions that the unit treats every year.
This year Firefighters from all over NSW raised over $75,000 in the annual 400in4 charity bike ride.
Northern Beaches Station Officer Brett Butler is in the above photo with the cheque for the Burns Unit.
Well done to all of the Firies involved.
400in4 is an Annual Event. The concept is to cycle 400km's in 4 days to raise money for The Burns Unit at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead. A long the way, Fire Fighters promote Fire and Rescue NSW Fire Safety Messages in the local media, regional primary schools and towns along the ride route. Website: http://www.400in4.org
Great Food at RMYC Newport
We’ve been getting some rave reports about the food being served up at The Helm Brassiere, downstairs at RMYC – Broken Bay at Newport. There’s free meals for youngsters on Thursday Family nights (with any Main over $22.00), 15 options for $15 on Tuesdays and even a Sunday Roast special for lunch. With views like this sunset picture taken this week, it would worth a visit soon.
App Connects you With The Past as you walk
A message from the City of Sydney:
Enjoy curated walks and fascinating points from Sydney’s past with the @CityofSydney’s Sydney Culture Walks app.
Step back in time with fascinating walking tours and hundreds of points of interest curated by the City’s History team.
Download free now:www.sydneyculturewalksapp.com
Pittwater Rate Notices are now digital 29 May 2014
It’s time to jump on the digital bandwagon and make your life easier than ever – enjoy this FREE service and pay your rates online!
From 7 April Pittwater ratepayers have been signing up to the new MyPost Digital Mailbox that allows them to receive and pay their rates notices online.
Ratepayers can opt in to the service provided by Australia Post, which the Council hopes will eventually eliminate the need for paper-based copies of rates notice.
The new service manages bill payments in a single location with a single password. The digital mailbox is a free and secure online platform, allowing Pittwater property owners to receive communication, pay bills and store important documents such as rates notices online.
Chief Financial Officer Mark Jones from the Council said the new service also lets people pay water and phone bills.
“The main advantage for people is that it is a centralised bill payment service that automatically sends reminders via email when rates are due,” he said.
“From the Council’s perspective it will gradually reduce the costs associated with printing the rates notice and mailing it to householders.”
Mr Jones said all ratepayers would continue to be sent the July rates notice by mail, which contain the two annual parking stickers for ratepayers.
“However if you opt in to the digital service, you’ll no longer receive a paper-based quarterly bill.”
Mr Jones added that ratepayers who did not wish to take up the digital mailbox service would continue to receive their rates notice by mail as normal.
“However we expect that once people become familiar with the new service they will sign up.”
To sign up for the digital mailbox service visitwww.digitalmailbox.com.au
$725,000 TO IMPROVE SAFETY ON SYDNEY HARBOUR May 27, 2014
Member for North Shore Jillian Skinner has welcomed a $725,000 investment in boating safety on Sydney Harbour with the launch of a $660,000 rescue vessel and the opening of a new $65,000 pontoon.
Ms Skinner, who is the Middle Harbour Unit Patron, officially opened the new floating pontoon before commissioning Middle Harbour 30, the 38 foot Steber offshore rescue vessel based at The Spit.
Mrs Skinner was joined by Minister for Resources and Energy Anthony Roberts, Mosman Mayor Cr Peter Abelson, Manly Mayor Cr Jean Hay AM, Marine Rescue NSW Deputy Commissioner Dean Storey and the unit’s members for the ceremony.
“Our harbour is one of the most spectacular in the world but it can be a dangerous place and it’s important volunteers have access to state-of-the-art rescue vessels to assist those who get into trouble on the water,” Mrs Skinner said.
“Middle Harbour 30 is a tremendous asset for the members of Marine Rescue Middle Harbour and the large boating community gathered around Sydney Harbour.
“It is ideally suited for a rapid response to boating emergencies not only on the harbour but also up to 30 nautical miles offshore beyond the Heads.
“The NSW Government is proud to support our volunteers, who are one of this state’s greatest assets. The skilled and experienced members of the Middle Harbour unit give their time unstintingly to assist boaters in trouble and save lives on the water.
“These grants have proved of great value in helping provide improved community infrastructure for the people of NSW.
“This new pontoon provides safer and more convenient access to and from Middle Harbour 30 for rescue crew members.
“Importantly, it also enables crews to more easily transfer victims of boating emergencies, especially those who are ill or have suffered an injury, to Ambulance paramedics for treatment or transport to hospital.”
Deputy Commissioner Storey said Middle Harbour 30 was an important part of Marine Rescue’s strategic safety net of rescue vessels covering the NSW coastline and inland on the Alpine Lakes and the Murray River at Moama.
“It is one of 36 new and refurbished vessels delivered to date at a cost of more than $10 million as part of our ongoing project to upgrade our rescue fleet through the financial support of the NSW Government and the boating community,” he said.
Unit Commander Tony Whybrow said the purpose-built rescue vessel was reliable, highly-manoeuvrable, safe and stable.
“It is fitted with state of the art navigation, marine radios, Automatic Identification System and thermal imaging cameras, along with a cardiac defibrillator and oxygen therapy,” he said.
“This first aid equipment is some of the most valuable gear on board, as we saw when crews from Middle Harbour and our neighbours at Marine Rescue Port Jackson helped save the life of a man who had suffered a heart attack while sailing with friends on the Harbour.”
During the commissioning event, Mrs Skinner also will present National Medals and MRNSW Long Service Medals to three members, acknowledging their long and diligent service to volunteer marine rescue.
Deputy Commissioner Storey paid tribute to the unit’s volunteers for their hard work and dedication to serving their large boating community.
He acknowledged the vital support of the NSW Government and the boating community for Marine Rescue’s essential services.
“The financial support we receive from the NSW Government and through boaters’ registration and licence fees is essential to our work to provide NSW with a world-class marine search and rescue, radio network and education service for safer boating,” he said.
Deputy Commissioner Storey reminded boaters to always wear a lifejacket when on board and to Log On and Off with their local Marine Rescue radio base whenever they were on the water. To find your local base, visit marinerescuensw.com.au
Community Streamwatch Program
If you’d like to nurture your environmental know-how then Pittwater Council’s Coastal Environment Centre (CEC) is giving locals a great opportunity to boost their skills in understanding freshwater ecosystems.
Council is joining forces with Streamwatch to offer an exciting citizen science project, observing and collecting data from our local waterways.
The session will begin with an information day on Sunday 22 June at the Coastal Environment Centre from midday to 2:30pm.
As part of the Streamwatch group, locals can learn about freshwater ecosystems, assist with data collection and network with other groups from across Sydney.
Streamwatch groups will meet once a month at sites around Pittwater.
Volunteers would be involved in water quality testing, data recording and Macro Invertebrate (water bug) sampling.
Anyone with an interest in the local freshwater waterways should not miss out!
To register, visit www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/cec/streamwatch
St Ives Medieval Faire!
Hear ye! Hear ye! Fair maidens and knights of Ku-ring-gai! The St Ives Medieval Faire is happening in September. It's going to be an action packed weekend of fun for the whole family. Check out the clip below for a hint of what's in store. All things Medieval, Jousting, Birds of Prey, Battles, Trebuchet, Archery, Armour, Chainmail.
VENUE: St Ives Showground, 420 Mona Vale Road, Sydney
Tickets are on sale here: www.stivesmedievalfaire.com.au/
Pittwater's Delivery Program & Budget Now On Exhibition
Pittwater Council this week voted to place on exhibition Council’s Delivery Program for the coming four years and the upcoming budget, fees and charges for 2014-2015.
The Delivery Program and Budget 2014-2018 will be on exhibition for public comment from 6 May until 2 June, 2014.
Pittwater Council’s Mayor, Jacqui Townsend said the Delivery Program for the next four years aims to deliver improved roads and footpaths, more drainage, improvements to public buildings and other community facilities such as wharves and sportsfields, plus an increased protection for Pittwater’s environment.
“We’re undertaking two significant capital projects over the coming financial year, with the construction of the bridge, road and footpath at MacPherson Street, Warriewood and the upgrade of Palm Beach Wharf,” added Cr Townsend.
General Manager, Mark Ferguson said “Council will also be embarking on an Asset Renewal Program for Council and Community Buildings, including work at Mona Vale Surf Club, and RFS Buildings at Coal & Candle Creek and Lovett Bay.”
Mr Ferguson acknowledged community feedback in relation to the planning process saying many aspects of community’s needs were reflected in the program with a focus on footpath connectivity, enhancing our natural environment, continued customer service and invigoration of our commercial and business centres.
He said pleasingly Council’s budget processes for the period 2014-2018 projected a positive outcome for the coming financial year.
Residents will also have an opportunity to provide final feedback on the Delivery Program and Budget 2014-2018 at a public meeting being held on Tuesday 13 May from 6.30pm at the Coastal Environment Centre, North Narrabeen. To RSVP for the meeting call 9970 1224.
The Delivery Program and Budget 2014-2018 is on exhibition for comment between Tuesday 6 May and Monday 2 June. The documents are available on the Council’s website atwww.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/exhibition or at Council offices and libraries at Avalon and Mona Vale.
Pittwater's Public Space Strategy on Public Exhibition
Residents are to have their say in how Pittwater’s public space will be managed through Pittwater Council’s Draft Public Space and Recreation Strategy.
The last two years has seen an assessment of every public space in Pittwater – from small parks, nature strips and golf courses, to bushland, bowling clubs, bushwalking trails and other spaces in our village centres.
Mayor Jacqui Townsend is encouraging all residents to take part in the public exhibition.
“We value the feedback from our community so we can discover exactly what people want for our beautiful environment,” said Cr Townsend.
“Many great ideas have surfaced from what is essentially the vision of our residents so the more opinions, suggestions and ideas we gather, the better!”
The draft policy is a result of a review of each piece of public space, as well as consultation with residents, sporting organisations and local community groups. The review sought feedback in relation to what specific needs locals envisage for our future.
The Draft Public Space and Recreation Strategy is on public exhibition from 9 May until 6 June.
“Public input will help shape a final version of the Strategy that will be presented to Council for approval later this year,” said Cr Townsend.
Pittwater residents can view the strategy and have their say by visiting www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/publicspace and completing an online form.
They can also send comments via email toPittwater_Council@pittwater.nsw.gov.au with ‘Public Space Strategy’ in the subject line. Alternatively, you can write to Council at Public Space Strategy, Pittwater Council, PO Box 882 Mona Vale NSW 1600.
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.
Awards to celebrate our brilliant local business women 28 May 2014, Media Release
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.
Old Mal Day
See one of Australia's largest collections of old mals and memorabilia on display.
At Bennett Surfboards
180 Harbord Rd, Brookvale, New South Wales, Australia 2100
Bushcare Dates - June 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 June 1
Avalon Dunes 8:30-11:30am
Woorarra Ave Planting Day 9-12pm
Mon June 2
Rocky Point 9-12pm
Browns Bay Res 9-12pm
Fri June 6
Norma Park 9-12pm
Sat June 7
Algona Res 9-12pm
Plateau Park 8:30-11:30am
Elizabeth Park 9-12pm
Sun June 8
Bangalley Head 9-12pm
Catherine Park 10-12:30pm
W’wood Wetlands 9-12pm
Fri June 13
Bilgola Beach 8-11am
Sat June 14
Mona Vale Dunes 8:30-11:30am
Coopers Pt 10-1pm
Woodlands Res 9-12pm
Sun June 15
Angophora Res 8:30-11:30am
Crescent Res 9-12pm
Elanora Rd 9-12pm
Elanora Bushcare Planting Day 9-12pm
Thu June 19
Mona Vale Dunes 8:30-11:30am
Sat June 21
Toongari Res 8-11am
Old Wharf Res 8-11am
Nth Palm Beach 9-12pm
Pathilda Res 9-12pm
Irrawong Res 1-4pm
Sun June 22
Bungan Beach 8-11am
Win Bay 9-12pm
Wed June 25
W’wood Beach 8-11am
Sat June 28
Pindari Res 8-11am
Nth Newport Beach 8:30-11:30am
Careel Creek 8:30-11:30am
Kywong Res 8:30-11:30am
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 May - 2014
Consultation on draft POEO (Waste) Regulation 2014 - Have Your Say
The Protection of the Environment Operations (Waste) Regulation 2005 (Waste Regulation) contains provisions relating to the waste levy, waste tracking, management requirements for certain waste types, payment schemes for councils, consumer packaging recycling and other miscellaneous provisions.
Following an extensive review of the Waste Regulation, the EPA is proposing a number of amendments to the Waste Regulation and Schedule 1 of the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997. Some amendments are also proposed for the Protection of the Environment Operations (General) Regulation 2009.
Consultation
The EPA has released a Consultation Regulatory Impact Statement and draft Protection of the Environment Operations (Waste) Regulation 2014. The new Waste Regulation will come into force on 1 September 2014. The EPA welcomes your views and encourages you to provide written comments by Friday 6 June 2014.
A summary of the timeframe for the Waste Regulation review process and stakeholder engagement is provided and invisted online submissions HERE
Johnson Brothers Mitre10 - Trade Day 2014
Annual Trade Day with an afternoon of never to be repeated prices, giveaways and more
Thursday, June 26 at 12:00pm - 6:00pm: 51 Bassett Street Mona Vale, NSW, Australia
NAVA Grant Writing for Artists
Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 1/6/2014: click on Logo.
To contact Julian: editor@scotlandisland.org.au
FUND RAISING STALLS FOR MONA VALE HOSPITAL AUXILIARY FOR THE FIRST HALF OF 2014
June 7th: Stall, Pittwater Place, Knitting, craft, Bric-a-brac, books 9am – 3pm
June 14th: Sausage sizzle, Bunnings Narrabeen 8am – 4pm
June 20th: Stall, hospital foyer, knitting, craft, baking, Bric-a-brac 9am – 3pm
Knit Woolies for Orphaned Animals
Every day WIRES volunteers are taking orphaned young marsupials youngsters like brushtail possums, swamp wallaby joeys, wombats, gliders, bandicoots, ringtail possums and many others, in their care. But they need a safe, warm environment similar to their mothers pouch, that they would normally be if they weren't in care.
The inner liner is changed frequently often after each feed which can mean up to 6 pouches being needed or just one joey every 24 hours. Many WIRES carers have multiple joeys in care at any given time and the number of pouches used each day can climb very quickly. On average a carer will often have 20-30 pouches in the wash at any given time.
The size of the pouches needed, changes depending on both the age of the joey and the species. In all cases the regular washing required means the life span of each pouch is limited and the need for pouches is ongoing.
You can help, the sewing and knitting required is fairly basic and there is a factsheet available to explain sizes and material requirements. The main requirement is the inner linings must be 100% cotton and the outer knitted pouches must be pure wool. Synthetic materials do not breathe and are not appropriate.
If you'd like to help you can download the fact sheet athttp://www.wires.org.au/component/content/article/67-newsflash/248-pouches-for-wildlife.htm
Northern Sydney Area Tenants' Service
We are a new service of Marrickville Legal Centre and funded by NSW Fair Trading. We provide free tenant advice, assistance, and advocacy to private and social housing residents in the local government areas of Hornsby, Hunters Hill, Ku-ring-gai, Lane Cove, Manly, Mosman, North Sydney, Pittwater, Ryde, Warringah, and Willoughby.
Northern Sydney Area Tenants Service
Suite 501A Level 5 282 Victoria Ave Chatswood 2067
tel: 8198 8650 fax: 8198 8666
See: www.tenants.org.au/
Doggy Do's and Don'ts with Steve Austin
Is your dog a scally-wag? Does he run away from you when you call his name, or repeatedly get his head stuck in the kitchen rubbish bin? Or perhaps he is a bully to other dogs? If your pooch needs a ‘talking to’, then it’s time to meet dog trainer extraordinaire Steve Austin.
Pittwater Council has engaged elite dog trainer Steve Austin to help with your issues. Steve will be available Sunday 22 June for a FREE session at Rowland Reserve from 9am-12. It’ll be a fun and informative morning where he can answer all your doggy-related questions; particularly when it comes to obedience.
Steve realised at the age of 13 he had a special way with dogs as he trained his dog Sooty to entertain crowds outside the pub.
These days Steve is often invited to lecture and help at zoos around the world. He’s also a regular at American Law Enforcement Agencies and was asked to train dogs in bomb detection at the Mount Everest Kennel Club in Kathmandu. Steve also trained the first ever truffle detector dogs.
Most recently Steve was chosen to head the NSW Emergency Volunteer Canine Fire and Rescue Unit. This unit - the first of its kind in Australia will be deployed to help with recovery efforts during tsunamis, earthquakes, fires and floods.
The main focus of the session will be on dog training, dog park etiquette, obedience and social skills. No bookings required, just turn up with your four-legged friends and let the fun begin!
For more information:www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/companion_animals
Southern Cross Wildlife Care Fundraiser
Fund Raising Auction at Joan Pearson's place, 4pm, 28 June. 3 course meal plus drinks with a presentation by Dr Ralph on wildlife treatment. SCWC merchandise will also be on sale. Come along and meet other friendly folk and learn something new. Cost is $75.00 each, booking essential. Call Joan on 9960 2229
Last Paradise Sydney Launch next week!
"Last Paradise" is the untold story of extreme sports innovation from its comical beginnings to the cutting edge of what it is today. In 45 years of stunning original footage we join the original pioneers as they discover paradises which have long since gone. But through the same story we discover a science to recreate it."
Sydney Dates:
1st June - Avoca
2nd June - Cremorne Orpheum - Hosted by Barton Lynch
4th June - Randwick Ritz
Get your tix here:http://lastparadisefilm.com/screenings/australia/national-tour/
Deep Creek Riparian Ecosystem Catchment Project
Pittwater Council has been successful in securing grant funding for the Deep Creek Riparian Ecosystem Catchment Project. The grant funding is from Greater Sydney Local Land Services and will support bush regeneration, habitat creation and riparian restoration within Deep Creek, Bilarong Reserve and the Elanora Bushcare site. The project is funded for a 12 month period, and will link with Council bush regeneration maintenance and hazard reduction work already being undertaken at the site. The project aims to reduce threats to biodiversity and enhance the condition, connectivity and resilience of habitats and landscapes.
Part of the project is to increase community awareness of environmental issues and management strategies to protect and care for this significant coastal area. Council will be undertaking community event days with planting at various locations within the project site, including the Elanora Road Bushcare site.
Council will also hold native plant giveaways for local residents to encourage the planting of locally native species on private properties. Please join us at any of these project events to help preserve and protect the Deep Creek Catchment! For more information please contact the Bushcare Officer on 9970 1367 or email bushcare@pittwater.nsw.gov.au.
Project Events
Woorarra Avenue Planting Day
When: Sunday 1 June, 9am to 12pm. Where: Meet at Woorarra Avenue opposite Allawah Avenue, Elanora Heights
Elanora Road Planting Day
When: Sunday 15 June, 9am to 12pm Where: Meet adjacent the driveway of 15 Elanora Road, Elanora Heights
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
$52 Million to Improve Palliative Care Services and Training - 29 May 2014
The Australian Government will provide $52 million over three years to improve palliative care services and training, the Assistant Minister for Health, Fiona Nash, announced today. Minister Nash said the State and Territory Governments were responsible for delivering palliative care services, while the Australian Government supports projects that enhance the overall quality of services.
“The funding will continue to support education and training opportunities in palliative care for health professionals, and promote the importance of advance care planning,” Minister Nash said today.
This funding is in addition to the support the Australian Government provides to state and territories to operate palliative care services, the subsidies for palliative care medicines under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, and palliative care consultations under the Medical Benefits Scheme.”
Minister Nash said National Palliative Care Week, which runs until Saturday, also brings attention to the importance of advance care planning.
“Less than one per cent of Australians over 70 has an advance care directive in place. For most of us, our mortality is something we don’t like to dwell on, but we all want to know that our wishes will be followed so we can have a comfortable and dignified death when the time comes.
“An advance care directive lets your loves ones, your doctor and other health professionals know about the level of care and the quality of life you’d like to have if you’re no longer able to make those decisions on your own.
“Palliative care is everyone’s business. Everyone should have a conversation with their loved ones about advanced care. It’s a difficult conversation to have, but a necessary one.”
Release of Disability Employment Services & Disability Management Services Industry Information Paper - 28 May 2014
The Government today released an Industry Information Paper on the purchasing approach for the delivery of Disability Employment Services – Disability Management Services (DES-DMS). The Government is seeking comment from stakeholders on the draft selection criteria contained in the Paper before the Request for Tender is released in the coming months.
In keeping with the Government’s commitment to building a high quality DES program, the Australian Government announced in the Budget that it is opening up the DES-DMS to full competition for the first time.
The Government will tender the 47% of DES-DMS that is currently delivered by CRS Australia, a division of the Department of Human Services. The non-government sector has shown that it can effectively deliver the service.
This is good news for people with disability and non-government employment service providers.
Competition drives efficiency and innovation in service delivery, resulting in increased benefits and better employment outcomes for people with disability.
Full competition for DES-DMS tenders will enable more participants to receive quality support and sustainable employment outcomes by promoting high performance and continuous improvement in employment services providers.
The Government is very serious about improving opportunities for people with disability.
This measure is all about giving job-seekers with disability confidence that their DES-DMS provider has demonstrated their ability to achieve high quality employment outcomes and that they therefore have the best chance possible of finding and keeping a job.
A newly published report has found that the Australian Government’s Disability Employment Services (DES) is helping to find jobs for an increasing number of people with disability.
The evaluation of the DES programme notes a substantial increase in demand, now 8,000 participants per month.
The report also highlighted encouraging improvements in moves to help people with disability find work, and found that DES has been particularly successful at finding work for people with temporary disabilities through the DES – Disability Management Service.
The Industry Information Paper will be available on AusTender atwww.tenders.gov.au and at www.dss.gov.au/DES/DMStender.
A copy of the evaluation report is available at www.dss.gov.au/our-responsibilities/disability-and-carers/publications-articles/policy-research
New Work for the Dole for young job seekers - Wednesday 28 May 2014 Media Release, The Hon Luke Hartsuyker MP, Assistant Minister for Employment
New Work for the Dole arrangements in areas of high unemployment will help young job seekers learn the skills they need to move from welfare to work sooner. Assistant Minister for Employment Luke Hartsuyker today announced further details on the first phase of the Government’s Work for the Dole programme to help young job seekers remain active and engaged while looking for work. The new arrangements will apply in 18 locations across Australia and include six areas in New South Wales, five in Queensland, four in Victoria, and one each in Western Australia, South Australia and Tasmania.
From 1 July 2014, job seekers aged 18 to 30 years in the targetted areas who have been unemployed for 12 months or more and receiving Newstart and/or Youth Allowance (other) will be required to do Work for the Dole for about 15 hours per week for six months.
“The Australian Government believes that all Australians who are capable of working should be working — ideally for a wage but, if not, for the dole,” Mr Hartsuyker said.
“Work for the Dole is an important part of the Government’s plan to help young job seekers gain the skills and experience they need to move from welfare to work and make a positive contribution to their local community.
“Work for the Dole provides participants with the chance to demonstrate many of the skills and behaviours that employers look for in candidates, such as commitment, teamwork and punctuality.”
The 18 selected areas reflect a cross-section of metropolitan and regional communities experiencing high unemployment and include:
Fairfield, Liverpool (NSW); Nepean, Outer Western Sydney (including Blue Mountains NSW); Central Coast (NSW); Shoalhaven (NSW); Richmond, Tweed, Clarence Valley (including Ballina and Byron Bay NSW); Coffs Harbour, Macleay, Hastings (NSW); Bundaberg (Qld); Fraser Coast (Qld); Outer North Brisbane (Qld); Cairns (Qld); Logan (Qld); Westgate (north west Melbourne Vic); Goulburn Valley (Vic); Peninsula (south eastern Melbourne) ; Geelong (Vic); Central and West Metro (south west Perth WA);Northern Adelaide, Gawler (SA); West and North West, Launceston (Tas)
As part of the 2014–15 Budget, the Government provided $14.9 million for Work for the Dole, including new funding for Work for the Dole Coordinators.
“The Coordinators will serve as the first point of contact for organisations wishing to be involved in Work for the Dole and help match job seekers to available places,” Mr Hartsuyker said.
Work for the Dole places will be sourced in not-for-profit organisations, local councils and federal and state government agencies.
Further information on the tender for the Work for the Dole Coordinators will be available at www.tenders.gov.au from 29 May 2014.
Federal Government Media Releases this week:
New investment in offshore exploration totals over $372 million
SNIPPET: Industry Minister Ian Macfarlane today announced the awarding of nine new permits as part of Round 1 of the Australian Government's 2013 Offshore Petroleum Exploration Acreage Release. The secondary work program consists of 500 km 3D QI/reservoir characterisation, Geological and geophysical studies and one exploration well totalling $30.5 million. The secondary work program consists of geological and geophysical studies and one exploration well totalling $20.12 million.
ACCC warns of recalled winter products | ACCC
SNIPPET: The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission is encouraging consumers to check the Recalls Australia website or download the Recalls Australia app so they can warm up safely this winter. As the weather cools off, people are starting to look through their closets for last year's winter warmers but what they may not realise is that some items have been recalled due to safety hazards, ACCC Deputy Chair Delia Rickard said. Before winter starts, carefully check that your electric blankets, hot water bottles and other winter items are in good condition and have not been recalled and if the goods have been recalled return them to the store for refund or remedy.
Cyber crime and security survey report
SNIPPET: I am pleased to announce that CERT Australia, the national computer emergency response team, has released the 2013 Cyber Crime and Security Survey Report. The annual survey provides a picture of the cyber threat environment, helping the CERT to provide major Australian businesses the best cyber security advice and support possible. Cyber security should be considered a CEO or Board issue and not just an information security issue.
Snakes in the laundry... and other horrors
SNIPPET: Media release: Thursday, 29 May 2014. Snakes in the laundry, dreary meals of mutton and a British reluctance to shower are just some of the memories post-war immigrants have shared in A Place to Call Home? Migrant hostel memories now on show at the National Archives of Australia. A Place to Call Home? Migrant hostel memories is on at the National Archives of Australia, Queen Victoria Terrace, Parkes ACT until 30 September 2014.
Leading employers of Reservists recognised at National Awards
SNIPPET: Four exceptional employers have been recognised for their support of Australian Defence Force Reservists at the National Employer Support Awards in Canberra overnight. The 2014 National Employer Support Award winners are:. Mr Robert also presented Employer Support Awards to several Australian Capital Territory and South Eastern New South Wales businesses.
Long day care services back professional development
SNIPPET: Almost half of all eligible long day care services have already applied to share in the Abbott Government's $200 million investment in professional development. The Abbott Government's decision to intervene will see the remaining funds shared fairly and equitably with all long day care services. Ms Ley said about 6000 long day care services were eligible for the LDCPDP, with applications closing 5pm (AEST) Friday 13 June 2014.
ACCC grants authorisation to Sydney councils for joint waste tender | ACCC
SNIPPET: The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has granted authorisation to Bankstown, Fairfield, Parramatta and Liverpool councils to tender jointly for services to process household clean-up' waste. The combined tendering and contracting process by the councils is likely to lead to some efficiency and cost savings, ACCC Commissioner Dr Jill Walker said. Broadly, the ACCC may grant an authorisation when it is satisfied that the public benefit from the conduct outweighs any public detriment.
ACCC proposes to allow poultry growers to collectively bargain | ACCC
SNIPPET: The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission proposes to grant authorisation to enable members of the NSW Farmers' Association, who grow chicken, turkey and duck meat, to collectively bargain with processors. Under the proposed arrangements, poultry growers will form common interest grower groups' to collectively bargain the terms and conditions of contracts with the relevant poultry processor. Collective bargaining will allow poultry growers to share transaction costs, such as employing expert advisors, which can improve their input into contracts, ACCC Deputy Chair Dr Michael Schaper said.
Literary Awards judges announced - Ministry for the Arts
SNIPPET: Wednesday 28 May 2014. The Prime Minister's Literary Awards are Australia's richest literary prize. The Prime Minister Tony Abbott and Minister for the Arts Senator George Brandis are pleased to announce that the judges for the 2014 Prime Minister's Literary Awards are:.
First film for 2014 for Director's Attachment Scheme announced as Neil Armfield's Holding the Man
SNIPPET: Funding for audience-engaging features of any genre. The Australian Directors Guild (ADG) and Screen Australia today announced the first film for 2014 for the, upcoming feature. Applications are now open for the
NFSA to hold workshops with industry // National Film and Sound Archive, Australia
SNIPPET: The National Film and Sound Archive of Australia (NFSA ) announced a new business model and structure for the organisation in April 2014. These workshops represent an opportunity for us to show how seriously the NFSA takes its role and responsibilities, today and well into the future.'. The exact dates, times and venues will be confirmed soon the information will be published on the NFSA website.
More local online news for Victoria | About the ABC
SNIPPET: ABC News has today continued its rollout of new state-based online and mobile sites with the launch of the local edition in Victoria. Now when visitors come to in Victoria they will receive comprehensive local news and features, including the best stories from ABC Local Radio, ABC Open and ABC Rural. That is in addition to full ABC coverage of national and international events. While most people come to ABCOnline for the big national and international news stories, we also want to deliver the best quality local online news service to Australians.
Australian Defence Force members honoured with Philippines service medals
SNIPPET: Representatives from the Royal Australian Navy's HMAS Tobruk, Australian Army and Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) were awarded Military Civic Action medals today by the Philippines Government for their assistance following Typhoon Haiyan in late 2013. The Australian Defence Force made a large contribution to Australian Government assistance following the impact of Typhoon Haiyan through Operation Philippines Assist, Mr Chester said. The Australian Defence Force contributed to Operation Philippines Assist from late November until mid-December 2013.
JASSM achieves Final Operational Capability
SNIPPET: Minister for Defence, Senator David Johnston, today announced Final Operational Capability (FOC) had been achieved for Project AIR 5418, the AGM-158A Joint Air-to-Surface Stand-Off Missile (JASSM). The Initial Operational Capability (IOC) for JASSM was declared in 2011, following successful test firings at the Woomera Test Range in South Australia. Video of the JASSM is available by searching JASSM on the Defence video library - www.video.defence.gov.au.
Jindalee Operational Radar Network achieves Final Operational Capability
SNIPPET: The Jindalee Operational Radar Network, provided by Joint Project 2025 Phase Five, has achieved Final Operational Capability (FOC) Defence Minister David Johnston said today. The Jindalee Operational Radar Network contributes to Australia's security environment by providing wide area surveillance of Australia's northern approaches, Senator Johnston said. Achieving Final Operational Capability means the system's components are now fully operational and fully developed and they meet the final standards required by Defence to operate effectively.
Voices of Birralee community choir
SNIPPET: Michael Ronaldson, today congratulated the Voices of Birralee community choir on its selection to provide choral services on the Western Front over the Anzac Centenary period from 2015. Voices of Birralee will perform at the Anzac Day Dawn Service at the Australian National Memorial and later at town services including the Australian service at `Digger' Memorial, Senator Ronaldson said.
New Work for the Dole for young job seekers
SNIPPET: New Work for the Dole arrangements in areas of high unemployment will help young job seekers learn the skills they need to move from welfare to work sooner. Assistant Minister for Employment Luke Hartsuyker today announced further details on the first phase of the Government's Work for the Dole programme to help young job seekers remain active and engaged while looking for work. Work for the Dole is an important part of the Government's plan to help young job seekers gain the skills and experience they need to move from welfare to work and make a positive contribution to their local community.
SNIPPET: The Government today released an Industry Information Paper on the purchasing approach for the delivery of Disability Employment Services Disability Management Services (DES-DMS). A newly published report has found that the Australian Government's Disability Employment Services (DES) is helping to find jobs for an increasing number of people with disability. The Industry Information Paper will be available on AusTender at www.tenders.gov.au and at www.dss.gov.au/DES/DMStender.
ACCC takes action following alleged egg cartel attempt | ACCC
SNIPPET: The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has instituted proceedings in the Federal Court against:. It is not alleged that this attempt to make a cartel arrangement involving Australian egg producers was successful. The ACCC is concerned that the alleged attempt sought to obtain agreement by egg producers to reduce supply, which if successful could have impacted on egg prices paid by consumers, ACCC Chairman Rod Sims said.
Cereform breast implants and associated sizers - update
SNIPPET: info@tga.gov.au | 1800 020 653 | More contact info Translate | Subscribe. The TGA has suspended the Cereform silicone gel-filled breast implants and associated sizers from the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods. As detailed in the TGA safety advisory for Cereform gel-filled breast implants, Medical Vision Australia Plastic & Cosmetic had already taken steps before the recall was undertaken to ensure Cereform breast implants were not implanted until the issue was resolved.
Global Healthcare Executive appointed to ANSTO's Board
SNIPPET: Federal Minister for Industry, Ian Macfarlane, announced the appointment of a global executive from the healthcare sector, Ms Penny Dobson, as a new member of the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) Board. Ms Dobson will bring a wealth of international experience in the healthcare sector to the ANSTO Board, Mr Macfarlane said. She has a Master of Business Administration from Macquarie University and a Diploma of Pharmacy from New Zealand. She is also a registered Pharmacist in Australia and New Zealand.
Report response to encourage resources and energy exploration
SNIPPET: The Australian Government is continuing its focus on restoring investor confidence in Australia's economic workhorse, the resources sector, by making mineral and energy exploration in Australia more globally competitive and economically attractive. Releasing the Government's interim response to the Productivity Commission Inquiry Report into Mineral and Energy Resource Exploration , Industry Minister Ian Macfarlane said the Government would work with the States and Northern Territory on implementing the report's recommendations. Exploration itself is a fraction of Australian economic activity but it fuels the resources and energy industry, which accounts for around 10 per cent of our economy, Mr Macfarlane said.
From investment to production - resources booming for Australia
SNIPPET: The importance of setting the right policy framework to encourage investment in the resources sector has been further highlighted with the release today of the Resources and Energy Major Projects April 2014 report by the Bureau of Resources and Energy Economics (BREE). This BREE report reinforces the need for ongoing progress in removing barriers to investment in the resources sector. The Government is continuing its work to deliver a policy environment that encourages resources investment and confidence, and gets rid of the reams of red tape and tax slugs that compromise productivity and competitiveness. The benefits from growth in production are considerable and welcomed, but at the same time we also need to ensure that the resources sector is given the support it needs for Australia to remain an attractive investment destination.
New air traffic control technology improving safety - Airservices Online Newsroom
SNIPPET: Email Alert Sign Up ». A new era in air traffic surveillance has been improving safety for aircraft operating in Australia's airspace, particularly in remote areas not previously covered by radar. Australia has a network of 61 ADS-B ground stations across Australia which provides continent-wide air traffic control surveillance.
Indigenous communities shortlisted for HIPPY funding
SNIPPET: Thirty-one sites across Australia have been shortlisted for the next round of an Australian Government-funded initiative helping indigenous communities put their children on the path to school success. Minister for Indigenous Affairs Nigel Scullion said the Brotherhood of St Laurence and HIPPY Australia, who manage the $100 million programme, would be conducting information sessions in each of the 31 communities to help determine their suitability for the programme. I encourage members of these shortlisted communities to attend their local information sessions to ensure they have their say in this important decision about whether HIPPY should be rolled out in their community, Senator Scullion said.
Bureau of Meteorology website goes mobile - Media release 27 May 2014
SNIPPET: Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for the Environment. The Bureau of Meteorology has redesigned its website for smartphone users, making it quicker and easier for people to access Australia's official weather forecasts using their mobile device. 'The mobile weather website is the Bureau's first mobile product offering for smartphone users.
Pacific Islands Forum Trade Ministers' meeting,
SNIPPET: The Parliamentary Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon. I look forward to working with Trade Ministers of the region on initiatives and activities that will help Forum Island countries gain more benefits from trade and investment, Senator Mason said. At the meeting, Ministers will consider ways to strengthen the Pacific Islands Trade and Invest Network and will review progress on negotiations for a new regional trade agreement, known as PACER Plus.