Pittwater Online News

ARTIVITY WEEK COMES TO NEWPORT 

Newport Recreation Centre will come alive with artistic exhibitions, demonstrations holiday workshops and talks during April. Pittwater Council is hosting two exhibitions from Friday 11 April until Thursday 17 April, as an Enliven Pittwater initiative.  

Local artist and recipient of the Pittwater Community Arts Young Emerging Artist Grant, Henry Curchod presents a new body of work depicting the life cycle of flowers. The opening night of the exhibition will be on Friday 11 April from 6pm to 9pm.  

Also opening on Friday 11 April at the Newport Community Centre is an exhibition of works from 19 members of the Pittwater Artists Trail. 

Pittwater Council’s Mayor Jacqui Townsend said it was exciting to see the collaboration between Enliven Pittwater, local artists and arts organisation coming together to offer a variety of events. 

“The objective of ARTivity Week is to offer an engaging art experience to our community and at the same time provide development opportunities for local artists. 

“As well as providing an exhibition space, there will be workshops and professional 

development talks by Arts Law. Participants will learn about artist’s rights and gain practical insight into copyright and contracts,” said Cr Townsend. 

 “Families can join in with the Be Centre holding creative workshops on Tuesday 15 April.  The workshops are a supportive and playful environment where children can roll up their sleeves and get creative,” she said. 

For detailed information on the program during ARTivity week and Enliven Pittwater,  www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/enliven  

PITTWATER LIVENS UP AFTER DARK

Enliven in the Evening activities include two upcoming outdoor cinema screenings and during April, a series of art events based around Newport Community Centre.

Finding Nemo will be screened in Village Park Mona Vale onSaturday 22 March from 7.45pm. Free face painting, craft for kids, and the ‘Shark in a bus’ travelling heritage collection will also be livening up Mona Vale Library on the same day.

The Mums for Mums charity support group is screening the kids movie Epic on Saturday 29 March at Bert Payne Reserve, Newport between 6pm and 9pm. For more info and tickets visit www.mumsformums.org.au 

Artivity is a series of art events happening in April at Newport Community Centre. From Friday 11–Thursday 17 April Henry Curchod, named Pittwater’s Young Emerging Artist, presents his work on the life cycle of flowers.  Also on at the centre is the Pittwater Artist Trail exhibition with 19 artists exhibiting.    The opening night for both events is Friday 11 April from 6-9pm.   

Ms Hewitt said all the activities on offer could be found on the free Enliven Pittwater app or at www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/enliven 

 Where The Wild Things Are…

A new exhibition of artworks about OWLS – from five intricate paper sculptures housed in perspex boxes to 36 colourful paintings, drawings and woodblock prints. Northern Beaches artist, Yvonne Cleaver, transports you into the realm of these intriguing nocturnal birds.

The exhibition opens at Eramboo, Terrey Hills on March 14 (Fri) and closes March 2.  Yvonne will give a demonstration on paper sculpture on the closing Sunday March 23 (2-3pm).

The exhibition opening will be held on Saturday March 15, 2-4pm. Through the duration of the exhibition the gallery will be open Friday - Sunday 11am to 4pm, or by appointment.

Yvonne Cleaver graduated from Art School in 1980 and since then, has showed her work in multiple solo and group exhibitions. She has undertaken several large-scale commercial commissions including 43 paintings for Macquarie University’s School of Business, as well as having her work featured in Australian House & Garden magazine. Yvonne’s work hangs in private and commercial collections in Australia, Canada, Europe and the United Kingdom.

Yvonne Cleaver : www.yvonnecleaver.com

Eramboo Gallery - 304 McCarrs Creek Rd, Terrey Hills

Exhibition runs to Sunday March 23 11am – 4pm (or by appointment) . Exhibition Opening Saturday March 15, 2-4pm. Paper sculpture demo on March 23, 2-3pm

 Turimetta to Warriewood Ocean Swim - May 4th, 2014

It's a beautiful swim south-north around Turimetta Headland, between North Narrabeen and Warriewood. A top time of year to do this kind of swim, too. Fall-back course is a triangular circuit off Warriewood beach, if conditions force a change.

More information...

Organiser - Warriewood SLSC. Distance - 2.2km + 200m Sprint/Dash (You can enter the Dash only if you also complete the main swim). Venue - Warriewood Beach, Sydney northern beaches, registration and swim HQ at surf club, main swim start at Turimetta Beach, just over the hill. Come to the surf club first.

Time/Date - Sunday, May 4, 2014, 10am race start. Registration - race day - 8:30am-9:45am. Entry fee - $30 ($40 on race day), or both swim and Dash $40 ($50 on race day)

Online entries close - 3pm, Saturday, May 3, 2014

Conditions - Warriewood is best known as the temperamental starting beach of the Mona Vale Mighty Marathon. It can be tempestuous, indeed, often offering a difficult break. Planned course starts at Turimetta, around the headland from Warriewood, which also could be bumpy if conditions come from the south. But in that case, it will be a fun ride with the swell around the headland and into the beach. It's a majestic bluff, that headland, and swimming beneath it is an experience. Coming in at Warriewood also will be fun.

Mimimum age - 15. Categories - 10 year age groups, Male and Female

More info - Download hard copy entry form HERE

 Can testosterone shots prevent diabetes in men?  17 March 2014

University of Sydney researchers are seeking male participants for a novel trial assessing whether regular testosterone shots can prevent type 2 diabetes in men.

The $4.8 million Testosterone for the prevention of Diabetes Mellitus (T4DM) study - the first of its kind in the world - is looking at the potential benefits of treating men with early signs of the condition (pre-diabetes) with testosterone supplements in conjunction with a dedicated weight-loss program.

The researchers are seeking up to 1500 overweight male participants aged 50-74 for this ground-breaking study ranging across NSW, Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia.

Lead investigator, Associate Professor Ann Conway, said men who sign up for the study would have free access to the online weight-loss program run by Weight Watchers.

"An online program is ideal for men who prefer not to attend Weight Watchers meetings," she said.

"The T4DM trial will look into whether diet and testosterone can prevent type 2 diabetes in men who have prediabetes and relatively low testosterone.

"We will be recruiting 1500 men who do not yet have diabetes across Australia to join the study, people who exhibit pre-diabetes conditions, such as being overweight around the middle.

"Study participation will last approximately two years and participants will receive free access to Weight Watchers and treatment with either testosterone or placebo.

"By giving testosterone supplements to men in that critical pre-diabetes stage, and by putting them on a dedicated weight-loss program, we hope to see sustained reductions in weight and a reduced chance to develop type 2 diabetes.

"Older men who have developed a large belly and are at risk of diabetes now have an opportunity to do something about their weight, improve their lives, and provide us with all-important research results that could benefit many others in the future."

Dr Conway said in the first six months of study participation, 77 per cent of men lost weight.

"And 83 per cent of men reported that they were getting up at least once at night to urinate before they joined the study. The study participants said this is a very important issue to them, many said it was this problem that motivated them to join the study and take steps to improve their health.

"After only six months of study participation 22 per cent of participants have already reported that they are getting up less often or are not getting up at all and we hope to see this improve further as the study continues."

Trial participant Michael Pryke signed up because he knew he was at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes, given combined factors of lifestyle, weight and a lack of exercise.

"My wife works hard on her own health and on our dietary habits, but I have lacked the necessary motivation to really do something," he said.

"This study has provided the impetus to finally make the long term life style changes I know I should be implementing, while offering an opportunity to contribute to ongoing research in this area."

To potential trial participants, Mr Pryke said: "Go for it - you have nothing to lose and an enormous amount to gain.

"Proving the role of testosterone in weight loss will be important and I believe publicity around the positive impacts on the lives of the men who actively participate will have a broader impact."

Fellow trial participant, Dr Tony Partridge said he had learnt more about pre diabetes and making the relevant lifestyle changes as a result of participating in the trial.

"I have a healthy self-image and an active life-style so I was surprised to find I was at risk," he said.

"Give it a go. You might help others to better health and perhaps also help yourself if risk factors are indicated."

How to sign up to participate: 1300 865 436 orwww.diabetesprevention.org.au/

This study is funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).

Pittwater Food and Wine Fair 2014

Sunday 4 May 2014, 10am to 4pm

Pittwater Council is hosting our fifth Food and Wine Fair at Winnererremy Bay. Bring your picnic rug and enjoy the live music at the beautiful scenic setting adjacent to the waterways of Pittwater. 

There will be wine tastings and wine sales together with a wide variety of hot food available on the day. There will be general stallholders selling picnic wares, jams, olive oils, breads and confectionary.

Parking will be available for a small fee at Pittwater High School or ride your bike and use our free bike racks.

Venue: Winnererremy Bay Foreshore Reserve - Mona Street, Mona Vale Enquiries: Please call Nikki Griffith 9970 1355 or 0417 426 925 or email nikki_griffith@pittwater.nsw.gov.au

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FREE COMPETITION - WIN GREAT PRIZES ENTER NOW!

First Prize - Degustation lunch experience for 4 people at Elizabeth's Restaurant at Mount Pleasant in the Hunter Valley with a private winery tour and tastings (value of $400);

Second Prize - 2 night stay at Currawong in a cabin for up to 4 people (conditions apply - valid May to October 2014 excluding school holidays);

Third Prize - Hamper of Cooks Lot wines and goodies including Lizottes vouchers - 2 free show only vouchers;

Fourth Prize - Lizottes Dinner show for 2 people + Cooks Lot wines.

Fifth Prize - Facepainting Birthday package to the value of $280 provided by Karen Langlands Face Painting

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Stallholder expressions of interest

Expressions of interest are now open for wineries, hot food and general (food only) stallholders. Provision of your current Public Liability Insurance is mandatory

- Only hot food stallholders will have access to power ($50 extra charge)

- Site allocations are space only - you are required to provide your own equipment

- costs and inclusions are detailed on the form

See all forms and more information at: HERE

AUTHOR SHARES MOTHERHOOD MINDGAMES 

Mona Vale Library will host author Jen S Wight with her book Day Six on Tuesday 25 March from 6.30pm. In Day Six Ms Wight offers an honest account of her experiences with postpartum psychosis and severe postnatal depression. 

Day Six depicts one of the roughest introductions to motherhood you could imagine. Wight breaks the taboo around mental illness, sharing with readers her delusions of being Cameron Diaz; her plan to work with Obama to save the world using FaceBook; as well as curing cerebral palsy with dental floss. She uses her experiences to explore her relationship with her sister who has schizophrenia and to illustrate that while mental illness can be devastating, there is hope that things will improve. 

Mona Vale Library’s event librarian, Catherine Buddin, said although the book portrays a very heavy subject matter, it does so in a way that is easy for readers to grasp and relate to. In an interview with child psychiatrist, Dawn Barker, Wight explains how she began writing as a cathartic exercise – ‘to get the wild and weird happenings out of her head’.  

Mr Wight said that ‘about halfway through writing it down I started thinking that this might actually help other families going through difficult times. By the time I finished the first draft I was keen to find a publisher!’  

Jen Wight hails from Hackney in East London and currently lives in Sydney with her son and husband. The talk will take place on Tuesday 25 March from 6.30pm at Mona Vale Library 1 Park  Street, Mona Vale. 

Bookings are essential; to book phone 9970 1600. Following the talk there will be book signings and light refreshments. Admission is $8 adult, $6 concession, free admission for students.

An evening with Bettina Arndt - on Tuesday 22 April, from 6.30pm at Newport Community Centre

Bettina Arndt is one of Australia’s first sex therapists, a social commentator and has been working in the media most of her life. Bettina now spends most of her time on the speaking circuit, travelling across the country keeping audiences enthralled with her stories.  She writes for many of Australia’s leading newspapers and magazines and appears regularly on television and radio.  

She’s also involved in an exciting new venture, working as a dating coach providing advice to men and women about online dating.  As part of her coaching role, Bettina helps with writing profiles which in-turn increases the chances of meeting the right match.

Her books include:

The Sex Diaries: Why Women Go Off Sex and Other Bedroom Battles

Taking Sides: Men, Women and the Shifting Social Agenda

What Men Want in Bed.

Bettina will have books available for sale at the event.

Cost - $10, no concession. Bookings essential, call 9970 1600, payment required within three days of booking.

Feedback Sought on Careel Bay Masterplan

An updated masterplan for Careel Bay is on public exhibition for comment until Wednesday 21 May.

The masterplan is aimed at improving access and recreational space as well as stabilising and protecting the Careel Bay foreshore.

Reserves & Recreation Manager Les Munn said the masterplan would be open for comments from the public from Saturday 22 March to Wednesday 21 May.

“We are keen to hear from local residents and people who use the area for recreation, such as boat owners.”

Among the improvements suggested are:

• Stabilising the foreshore by creating a seawall that blends into the surrounding area.

• Creating access onto the beach and surrounding waterway

• Infilling of land to provide space for recreation and dinghy storage, including ramp access for dinghies

• Separate pedestrian access via a footpath to George Street and improved pedestrian safety. The masterplan will allow two-way vehicle access.

Mr Munn said the Council would write to local residents in the area explaining the proposed improvements and inviting them to a meeting to discuss the masterplan.

The community meeting will be held on Wednesday 9 April in Room 2, Avalon Recreation Centre, 59 Old Barrenjoey Road Avalon between 6pm and 7.30pm. No RSVP is needed to attend this meeting.

The draft masterplan can be viewed online and at Pittwater Council customer service centres and libraries at Avalon and Mona Vale.

Mr Munn said once the masterplan was adopted by the Council, work was expected to take place in two stages.

“Stage 1 will be the construction of a dinghy storage facility and associated landscaping through a Better Boating Program grant from the state government. The remainder of the work will be subject to future funding.” 

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches' Pittwater International Women's Day Breakfast -Tuesday 11 March.

The Zonta Northern Beaches annual breakfast was sold out this year with 220 people attending on a perfect early morning looking up Pittwater from the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club. The Pittwater Woman of the Year was announced by Rob Stokes to be Christine Hopton. 

Christine is one of two women on the Board of Directors of Surf Life Saving Australia.  She is President of Avalon Surf Life Saving Club and has a history of encouraging women to take on leadership roles.  

Guest speaker for 2014 was Lindsay Cane CEO Royal Far West in Manly.  Lindsay spoke of her interesting life growing up in Manly and working with various NGOs as well as her personal interests. 

It was another very successful and entertaining morning, while fundraising for Zonta's international and local projects assisting women. 

Words Courtesy Ann Asker - Zonta Northern Beaches

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SHOROC Welcomes Major Roadwork Planning for Northern Beaches

The SHOROC Mayors of Manly, Mosman, Pittwater and Warringah councils have welcomed the NSW Government’s announcement that it is planning major road infrastructure upgrades around the site of the soon-to-be-constructed Northern Beaches Hospital.

SHOROC President and Pittwater Mayor, Cr Jacqueline Townsend says the works being planned for the hospital precinct including for Warringah Road, Wakehurst Parkway, Forest Way and Frenchs Forest Road are vital for the future of the region.

“This is wonderful news. Congratulations to our local MPs in recognising the importance of delivering this road infrastructure for our community,” said Cr Townsend.

In 2013 the NSW Government announced the plans to construct a ‘world-class hospital on Sydney’s Northern Beaches’.

Now the much needed major road works required to address the congestion on Warringah Road and Wakehurst Parkway, plus to enable efficient access to the hospital, are being planned.

“We are working closely with the NSW Government on these major infrastructure projects and these plans demonstrate the benefits that a regional collaborative approach between councils and the state government can bring.”

The road works being planned are major regional infrastructure priorities identified in SHOROC’s regional strategy Shaping Our Future. Priorities identified in the strategy for the east-west Warringah Road corridor are:

grade separation at the intersections of Warringah Road with Wakehurst Parkway and Forest Way, together with upgrades to Wakehurst Parkway to provide flood-free access

Fast public transport links from Dee Why to Chatswood together with park and rides to maximise patronage of public transport.

“We look forward to working with the NSW Government to deliver the road and public transport upgrades this precinct and the whole region needs,” said Mayor Townsend.

For more information:

Roads and Martitime website for more on the proposals

Planning & Infrstructure for maps and details on the concepts being considered and to have your say

SHOROC’s proposed transport solutions.

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 TEDxSydney at the beach, brought to you by NewportNet

newportnet.com.au/

On Saturday April 26th, the doors of NewportNet, the Northern Beaches first Co-working space will open to the local community to experience live video coverage of TEDxSydney at the Sydney Opera House. Sold out each year since inception, despite the requirements to apply to attend, TEDxSydney has become the leading pipeline for the propagation of Australian ideas, creativity, innovation and culture in Australia and to the rest of the world. TEDxSydney fosters a sense of community and provides a cultural focus and impetus for conversation and debate.

As one of TEDxSydney’s first satellite Event organisers for 2014,NewportNet is welcoming the local community to experience thought provoking ideas, compelling stories and breathtaking musical and stage performances live on two big screens, free of charge.A full day event, TEDxSydney will include talks from Nikon-Walkley, award winning photographer Barat Ali Batoor, New York Times winning author Adam Alter, brain imaging scientist Richard Banati, mathematician Clio Creswell, Punchbowl Boys High School Principal Jihad Dib, ex Nsw State Coroner Mary Jerram, best selling author David Kilcullen, lighting architect Mark Major, entrepreneur and Skateistan founder Oliver Percovich, neuroscientist Cyndi Shannon Weickert, autistic artist Tim Sharp (and mum Judy), environmental campaigner Barry Traill, Neuro-ethicist Nicole Vincent, disability advocate and comedian Stella Young and Mark Zusak, author of the New York Times best selling novel “the Book Thief”.

We want to make this a community event and will provide morning tea as well as some music, drinks and nibbles during the afternoon session. Entry is free but entry is by ticket only. Tickets are available online at tatb.eventbrite.com.au

We’d like to invite some local success stories to give a 10-15mins talk about where and how their business started and the hurdles they encountered to lead to their success.

This is going to be an exciting FREE event for the Northern Beaches. See below links for more information.

tedxsydney.com/site/about.cfm

tinyurl.com/m4nhh9x

Alan Jones is the contact point for people who’d like to either sponsor the event or give a 15min talk about their journey to a successful business.

alan@thenewagency.com.au    01414 987 069

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Pittwater Food and Wine Fair 2014

Sunday 4 May 2014, 10am to 4pm

Pittwater Council is hosting our fifth Food and Wine Fair at Winnererremy Bay. Bring your picnic rug and enjoy the live music at the beautiful scenic setting adjacent to the waterways of Pittwater. 

There will be wine tastings and wine sales together with a wide variety of hot food available on the day. There will be general stallholders selling picnic wares, jams, olive oils, breads and confectionary.

Parking will be available for a small fee at Pittwater High School or ride your bike and use our free bike racks.

Venue: Winnererremy Bay Foreshore Reserve - Mona Street, Mona Vale Enquiries: Please call Nikki Griffith 9970 1355 or 0417 426 925 or email nikki_griffith@pittwater.nsw.gov.au

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WILDLIFE HIGH TEA FUNDRAISER
SOUTHERN CROSS WILDLIFE CARE
Sunday 6th April 2 pm.
8 Lentara Rd Bayview.

Come along to Coomalong(where possums meet) enjoy the exotic surroundings overlooking Pittwater, whilst helping our native animals. 

All funds raised go directly towards treating and rehabilitating our precious wildlife. Our resident veterinarian Dr Howard Ralph will give a brief presentation highlighting the many various species he treats with varying problems. We can assure you Howard's images are touching and inspirational.

ALL WELCOME ADMISSION $30  adults  -  Kids Free
Yummy cakes & afternoon tea /  Coffee / Juice for the kids included.  
Contact  Lindy 0409 404570

 Manly Art Gallery and Museum - EXPRESS YOURSELF - Until 16th of March 2014

Express Yourself is a vibrant, fascinating and dynamic exhibition showcasing the immense talent and creativity of the 2013 crop of HSC Visual Arts students from Sydney’s Northern Beaches.

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Funding To Improve Local Flood Risk Management 

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes and Environment Minister Robyn Parker today (March 2nd, 2014) announced almost $300,000 in State Government funding to help improve flood mitigation strategies throughout Pittwater. Pittwater Council will receive $170,000 to prepare a floodplain risk management plan for the areas between Avalon Beach and Palm Beach and a further $120,000 to review and update the existing flood study for Mona Vale and Bayview to include McCarrs Creek.

"This funding will support Pittwater Council in combating flood risks throughout our community," Rob Stokes said today. "Addressing Pittwater's known flooding hotspots is a continuing challenge which requires detailed planning and adaptive strategies.

“This funding will allow for a review the existing flood study for Mona Vale and Bayview, which was completed in 2003, and the addition of the neighbouring catchment of McCarrs Creek. 

“The floodplain risk management plan for the areas between Avalon Beach and Palm Beach is equally important and will help Council prepare for future flood events. 

"This funding builds upon previous NSW Government assistance to Pittwater Council to help manage local flood risks and I look forward to the benefits and improvements it will provide. 

Ms Parker said these were 2 of 60 recent grants totalling $20.8 million awarded to local councils to plan for, and reduce risks and impacts of, flooding.

“Flooding in urban and rural NSW costs our economy about $250 million each year, and that’s apart from the severe emotional distress that can result,” Ms Parker said.

“Eligible councils will also be able to access a $1 million pool of funds for projects to purchase or raise properties that have been identified to be in areas of high flood risk. 

“These funds come from the NSW Government’s Floodplain Management Program which aims to reduce the impacts of flooding on communities and to reduce private and public losses resulting from floods. 

“Councils will also contribute their own funds to the projects – in most cases the NSW Government provides $2 for every $1 invested by councils.

“The NSW Government recognises the damage that flooding can cause and is proud to support councils with funds and expertise to help them prepare and minimise the risk to their communities.” 

Minister Parker also announced that applications for grants from the 2014/2015 round of the Floodplain Management Program are now open and will be received until 15 April 2014. 

Funding is available to assist local councils and other eligible agencies to carry out floodplain management projects, to assess risks and reduce impacts of flooding.

More information about the NSW Floodplain Management Program including links to application forms and guidelines is available on the Office of Environment and Heritage website at:http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/coasts/Floodgrants.htm

 The Australian National Maritime Museum now has a speakers program - March News from ANMM

The Australian National Maritime Museum (ANMM) at Darling Harbour now has a speakers program where volunteer guides are available to speak to clubs.

The presentations available cover some important events in Australian Maritime history including 

- the collision of the Voyager and the Melbourne

- the successful raid by the Krait on Japanese shipping in Singapore

- the first Australian naval victory of the Sydney and the Emden

- the story of the AE2 submarine in the Dardenelles

- an interesting story about alcohol at sea

We also have available an overview of the ANMM and a virtual tour of the destroyer Vampire where photos and video clips will bring the ship to life and explain what life was like aboard an Australian warship.

Please contact Ron Ray or Noel Phelan if you would like a speaker at your club. 

For more information: www.anmm.gov.au or email:therays@aapt.net.au

The Duke 100 Years on - 1914 -2014 and the 'Arrival of Mals' at Avalon Beach SLSC - 18th of November, 1956

In That Summer in Boomerang, the original Editor of Tracks, Phil Jarrett has published an insight into Isabel Letham and legendary Hawaiian swimmer and surfer, Duke Kahanamoku who visited Sydney on an exhibition swim in 1914 and then took to the waves on a surfboard.

You can listen to an interview with Mr Jarrett HERE about this great book and just ponder for a moment one hundred summers ago...

As further inspiration, this week we are privileged to present an account of the 1956 'Arrival of the Mal' surfboards by David Lyall and Bob Head as given at this week's Avalon Beach Historical Society Talk on Tuesday evening (25.2.2014).

Bob and David's illuminating celebration of surfing Mal's at Avalon Beach SLSC - fills our Aquatics page this Issue.

Legendary saltwater man, Nick Carroll, is our Profile of the Week - and shares a few insights on 1970's surfing, was also an Editor atTracks, is a paddling dynamo, surf sports coach and wordsmith.

Top: David Lyall, Geoff Searl and Bob Head at Avalon Bowling Club on Wednesday evening. A J Guesdon pic.

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Local Firies at RMYC

A boat on a mooring sank at Refuge Cove on Saturday afternoon and Fire Brigade members from Mona Vale and Avalon used the facilities Peter Moxham initiated at the Royal Motor Yacht Club to get their equipment to where they could install a boom around the oil leaking from the vessel. 

Another great example of how our local clubs build infrastructure   that benefits the whole community.

Above: Jeremy Stubbs, Wade Laverack and Ron James at RMYC on Saturday afternoon - Pic by AJG.

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Hospital Jubilee Success Shared In State Parliament  - 25 February 2014

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes today in State Parliament congratulated everyone involved in Mona Vale Hospital’s Golden Jubilee celebrations. Thousands of residents took part in the various events held across the weekend to celebrate the hospital’s continuing service to the community and its invaluable role over the past 50 years.

Special thanks were made to the organising committee, especially Parry Thomas and Gail Carew, as well as the countless volunteers, sponsors, businesses and community groups that helped make the weekend a huge success.

“It was fantastic to see the community come together with such passion and enthusiasm,” Rob Stokes said today. “Mona Vale Hospital is an integral part of our community and the events over the weekend provided a fitting celebration.

“An enormous effort went into organising this memorable occasion and everyone involved deserves to be congratulated.

“Over the past 50 years Mona Vale Hospital has treated nearly 1 million emergency patients and delivered almost 25,000 babies – we have so much to be thankful for.

“In addition to the many activities on offer – it was also a great opportunity for local families to see firsthand the long-awaited infrastructure projects currently underway on the hospital’s grounds.

“The jubilee celebrations were a great success and I was delighted by our community’s support,” Rob Stokes said. 

 Mona Vale Hospital Jubilee funds raised for the Hospital Auxiliary

Reunion Dinner $2,314

Fair day $11,600

Jubilee Dinner $18,300

Chamber of Commerce Mona Vale donation $500

Jubilee Swim $755

Total $33,469

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 Barrenjoey Week of Golf

The Barrenjoey Peninsula Week of Golf Committee for 2014 met on Monday 24 February to present a cheque for $6,500 to Alison Dodds from  the Manly Women's Shelter - our nominated charity for 2014, being the money raised from our raffle. 

Alison was very grateful and mentioned that donations were essential to the continued running of this wonderful organisation. 

The raffle is run each year around tournament time and is only possible due to the enormous generosity of local Peninsula businesses who kindly donate fantastic prizes. To see the list of prizes and winners please visit our website at www.barrenjoeyweekofgolf.com

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NSW parents in world-first project 

The University of Sydney today launched a new project which offers two years of free parenting support to parents and caregivers of children with a disability in New South Wales.

Parents and caregivers are invited to go to www.mysay.org.au to fill in a survey and register for free parenting support under the Stepping Stones Triple P (SSTP) Project.

Health and education professionals who work in the child disability field can also complete the survey and apply for free Stepping Stones training and resources.

The University of Sydney's Chair of Mental Health Professor Stewart Einfeld from the Faculty of Health Sciences launched the project at the Helping Families Change Conference in Sydney today.

Professor Einfeld said the SSTP project aims to reduce high levels of emotional and behavioural problems in children with a disability by providing parents with more support.

"Children with developmental disabilities, such as autism spectrum disorders, Fragile X and Down syndrome experience three to four times the emotional and behavioural problems of typically developing children," Professor Einfeld said.

"This has an enormous impact on parents, and understandably many struggle to cope with the daily demands of raising their child and the extra challenges it involves."

The SSTP Project offers free parenting sessions through Stepping Stones, which is a Triple P - Positive Parenting Program for parents of children with a disability.

A 2007 study¹ found 71 per cent of children with a developmental disability showed substantial behaviour improvement after their parents completed a Stepping Stones program.

The three-state SSTP Project is funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council, Australia, and is being rolled out in New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria.

¹Plant, K.M. & Sanders, M.R. (2007). Reducing problem behavior during care-giving in families of preschool-aged children with developmental disabilities. Research in Developmental Disabilities, 28, 362-385.

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Pittwater International Women’s Day Breakfast Tuesday 11 March 2014

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Inc will host the annual Pittwater International Women’s Day Breakfast on Tuesday 11 March 2014 at Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, 16 Mitala St, Newport. The 2014 Pittwater Woman of the Year will be announced at the breakfast by Rob Stokes, MP for Pittwater.  Guest speaker at the breakfast will be Lindsay Cane, CEO Royal Far West, Manly.

Lindsay is an experienced CEO/Executive of health and sporting agencies. She has a strong spirit of adventure and a driven and competitive attitude to life’s challenges. Leadership positions have included Netball Australia, Asthma Foundation of New South Wales and Australian Physiotherapy Association.  

Lindsay has trekked with camels across The Great Sandy Desert; walked the 800km Spanish Camino de Santiago (twice); learned to dance the Argentine Tango; played representative Basketball; been a long-standing Director of the Australian Masters Games and Confederation of Australian Sport and contributed as a Board member of the Australian Commonwealth Games Association among many other personal, professional and community achievements. She has been a finalist in the Telstra Businesswomen’s Awards. 

Under her leadership Royal Far West recently received the Premier’s Award for Service Excellence to the NSW Public, in recognition of their unique Child Health Strategy and long standing contribution to the health and wellbeing of rural NSW.

Lindsay will speak on her ‘life story’.  

The IWD Breakfast will be held at Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, 16 Mitala St, Newport at 7am till 9am on Tuesday 11 March 2014. The cost is $38.  Enquiries topittwateriwdbreakfast@gmail.com 

or Susie Lough on 0413 623 392.  

Proceeds from the breakfast will support service projects of Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Inc assisting local women in need, and Zonta International projects in developing countries. Come by yourself, bring a friend or make up a table of 8 to 12.  We will seat you. Please note the new venue for this year.

The Pittwater IWD Breakfast is supported by Pittwater Council. 

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World Environment Day Awards – Entries Open 

To celebrate the United Nations World Environment Day (Thursday 5 June), the United Nations Association of Australia is inviting Award nominations from Local Government, individuals, organisations and community groups whose work serves to protect, manage or restore our natural heritage. 

The prestigious national World Environment Day Awards recognise innovative and outstanding environmental programs and initiatives from across Australia, and the important work of Australian environmental leaders. 

Category details, entry criteria and the nomination information are available on the UNAA website (see fact box). 

There are two Local Government Awards: 

• Best Specific Environmental Initiative 

• Excellence in Overall Environmental Management. 

These two Awards seek to recognise the work of Local Government organisations that have implemented outstanding specific conservation initiatives, or are leaders in overall environmental management. These 

Awards recognise the essential role that councils play in sustainable development, particularly in regards to local action for environmental sustainability and collaboration with local businesses and community groups to achieve positive outcomes for the environment.  Nominations for the UNAA World Environment Day Awards are NOW OPEN. Entries close AT 5pm Thursday, 17 April. 

See categories and entry forms at HERE: 

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Southern Cross Wildlife Care - Critter of the Month - March 2014 - curated by Lynleigh Greig

Esther’s Lucky Escape

Early one Tuesday, whilst already on a snake call-out, I was rung to collect an injured black-bellied swamp snake from a vet in Forestville. The little snake had been brought inside by the home-owner’s cat and was suffering from bite-wounds to at least 3 parts of her body. 

I rushed over and administered an antibiotic injection immediately. 

Our prognosis for small snakes that suffer cat-bites is usually very guarded. It’s not often that they pull through - which is very sad. 

Esther, however, had a feisty little spirit and we had high hopes for her.

Once in the surgery, she was given a warm bath in an antiseptic solution and placed on a heat-mat to begin her recuperation. 

Every second day, we administered antibiotic injections and she became stronger and stronger. Despite being quite spirited, Esther was always a pleasure to treat. 

Black-bellied swamp snakes are also known as marsh snakes. They are usually less than 1m long and can vary quite a bit in colouring - usually an olive green, but sometimes brown in colour. They have two white stripes along each side of their face - one above the eye and the other on the jawline.

Once Esther had undergone a course of antibiotics and was nice and strong again, it was time for her to go back to the wild.

We took her back to her original location and then looked for a safe area of bushland close to where she was found.

We found a mini-paradise - with beautiful bracken ferns, a babbling creek and the song of splendid fairy wrens.

When we released her, she turned around as if to say “thank you”. 

Learn About Snakes and Spiders

Local residents are invited to learn more about snakes and spiders at two free safety awareness seminars being held during April. The seminars provide attendees with practical information about preventing bites from venomous snakes and spiders.

The seminars will cover awareness measures, first aid treatment for snake and spider bites and emergency response procedures.

David Lowery from the Coastal Environment Centre said snake experts Jackie and Craig Adams from SSSAFE would host the seminars.

“Craig and Jackie are leading advisors on snake safety, with Craig a snake expert and former Operations Manager for the Australia Reptile Park,” he said.

“Residents will spend some time learning how to identify different species of snakes and spiders as well their habitat and behaviours.”

General Manager Mark Ferguson said the awareness program had already proved popular with Council staff recently.

“Many of our field staff can come into contact with snakes or spiders in their day-to-day work and needed training to know what to do,” he said.

“We’re now offering similar sessions for residents.”

The public seminars will run on two dates in April. Residents can choose a session on either Thursday 3 April from 7pm to 9pm or onSaturday 12 April, from 1pm to 3pm.

The seminars are free; however bookings are required due to limited spaces available. To book call 1300 000 232, or register at:www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/cecbookings

Training Opportunities for Single Parents

Mona Vale Library together with The Northern Sydney Institute, part of TAFE NSW, will host free educational opportunities for single parents on Mondays during March.

The free sessions are open to recipients of the Parenting Payment, who have a child under the age of six and do not have a Year 12 or equivalent qualification.

The funded places will be available at Mona Vale Library on Mondays from 3 March until 31 March, from 10am until approximately 1pm.

Pittwater Council’s Community and Library Services Manager, Mr Lindsay Godfrey said the eligible students would receive mentoring, assistance with job seeking, plus workshops on topics such as parenting and personal presentation.

Mr Godfrey commended the National Partnership Agreement on Training Places for Single and Teenage Parents scheme, which aims to improve job readiness of single and teenage parents who receive the parenting payment.

The grant funding for this initiative provides guaranteed places in training courses and extra education support for all eligible single parents who meet course entry requirements,” added Mr Godfrey.

Anyone wishing to register for these sessions should express their interest with Susie Eve from TAFE NSI, via email atSusie.eve1@tafensw.edu.au or by calling 9472 1239.

Author Talk Offers Insights from the Heaven World

Mona Vale Library presents Barry Eaton with his book No Goodbyes: Insights from the Heaven World on Tuesday 11 March at 6.30pm.

Author of Afterlife, Barry is back with more fascinating insights into the afterlife including sharing more of his own afterlife journey.

In No Goodbyes, Barry delves deeper into the mysteries of the spirit world and life between lives, and how they can influence our current life on earth.

He reveals information about destiny and free will, world unrest, the effects of negativity and addictions, dealing with sceptics, soul energy guidance, consulting mediums and psychics, soul growth and other facets of the bigger picture.

Afterlife, Barry's first bestselling book, introduced Judy his late partner, who from the world of spirit originally inspired and encouraged him to write. Judy's soul has since advanced to higher levels and now offers fascinating new details about life on both sides of the veil.

Well known in mainstream media for his work in journalism, broadcasting and television, and also for his internet radio show,Radio Out There, Barry now discloses more of his own afterlife journey, including intriguing glimpses into a long-forgotten past.

Barry Eaton gives regular talks and lectures, as well as one-on-one sessions as a psychic intuitive. His first book, Afterlife, was published in 2011.

The talk will run from 6.30pm to 8pm. The event costs $8/$6 concession. Bookings are essential on 9970 1600.

Following the talk there will be book signings and light refreshments.

Pittwater Mayor Cleans Up Coastal Site

Pittwater Mayor Jacqui Townsend will lead by example this Clean Up Australia Day, as she spends time at the Coastal Environment Centre’s registered site on Sunday 2 March.

Local residents are invited to join the Mayor at the site that reaches from the Coastal Environment Centre at Lake Park Road to the bridge at Ocean Street.

To date, 17 Clean Up sites are registered in Pittwater and the aim is to have more than 25 this year.

Mayor Townsend said she was looking forward to the event, saying the initiative was one that made a difference on a local and national level.

“Clean Up Australia Day brings people together united in a common goal to clean up an area they visit regularly, or just one that they think needs some TLC,” Mayor Townsend said.

To participate, residents are invited to identify a site that they think needs cleaning and register it online.

Clean Up Australia Chairman, Ian Kiernan AO urged everyone to do their bit for Australia. “If cleaning up isn’t your scene, there is another way to put yourself in the picture on Sunday 2 March. Clean Up Australia is inviting individuals, schools and businesses to join them as a community sponsor of Clean Up Australia Day.”

“All they need is 125,000 Australians to donate just $2 to show how much YOU care about the environment - it's less than the cost of a cup of coffee,” said Mr Kiernan.

“We are inviting people to join us in any way they can, whether registering a site, asking your friends to sponsor your site, joining as a volunteer or making a donation to the YOU campaign – every one of us can be centre stage in 2014,” he said.

To register your site, join an existing one or to donate go online or call 1800 CUA DAY (1800 282 329).

Volunteers should bring with them gloves, a hat, sturdy shoes, sunglasses and sunscreen.

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 Schools invited to get on board with anti-bullying activities

Schools across the country are invited to register for one of Australia’s key anti bullying events, the 2014 National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence.

The day – to be celebrated on Friday, 21 March 2014 – was established in 2011 as a way for schools to take a stand together and promote the important work they are doing to stop bullying and violence.

Minister for Education, the Hon Christopher Pyne MP said the National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence provides schools the chance to examine their anti-bullying policies.

“There’s nothing more important than ensuring that young Australians get a great education. Central to this is ensuring that when students are at school they feel safe and secure and can focus on their studies,” Mr Pyne said.

“It’s also a great opportunity for schools to involve students and the community in activities and events that promote a safe and supportive school environment.”

“It is also an opportunity to look at how the Coalition’s policies to increase autonomy in schools and encourage parents to become more engaged in their child’s education could lead to improved student behaviour.

Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Education, Senator Scott Ryan, encouraged schools to visit www.bullyingnoway.gov.au to register for the 2014 event.

“The National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence is a great way for schools to share ideas about how we can make school a safer place for all students as well as teachers, parents and families,” Senator Ryan said.

“In 2013, more than 644,000 students, in 1,485 schools, participated in the event.

“We’re hoping even more schools can take part this year, and send a strong message to students and the community that bullying of any form is not okay.”

Schools that register for the 2014 National Day of Action will receive regular updates about the event, as well as information about activities they can run in their own school.

Schools will also have access to resources and promotional material to help make the day a success.

The National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence is an initiative of the Safe and Supportive School Communities Working Group, which includes education representatives from the Australian Government, state and territory governments, and the Catholic and independent schooling sectors.

Schools can register to participate in the day by visitingwww.bullyingnoway.gov.au

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 $15 million for business recycling grants 

Businesses wanting to reduce their environmental footprint can apply for the first round of NSW Government recycling grants, worth $15 million.

Environment Minister Robyn Parker said that each year close to 1.6 million tonnes of commercial and industrial waste was sent to landfill in Sydney alone.

“It is estimated that around 70 per cent of that waste including food, paper, wood and plastics could have been reused or recycled,” Ms Parker said. “By engaging in recycling networks or implementing recycling practices onsite, businesses can save waste from ending up in landfill.”

The two grant programs are:

$11.5 million Business Advisory Services Grants – will fund a Business Advisory Service that provides free assessments to businesses wanting to capitalise on recycling opportunities.

Grants are between $50,000 and $250,000, and open to councils, private industry, consultants or not-for-profit organisations.

Applications close 3 April 2014.

$3.6 million Industrial Ecology Business Support Grants - will fund six Industrial Ecology Business Support Networks across the Sydney, Hunter, South East, North Coast, Inland NSW and the Murray to help small and medium businesses prevent waste going to landfill.

Grants are between $100,000 and $500,000, and are open to specialist businesses and not-for-profit organisations with experience in resource recovery. Applications close 21 March 2014.

Find out more here: www.epa.nsw.gov.au/waste/WasteLess.htm

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Sports Lunch - Friday 21 March -12pm 

Cost: $110.00 (lunch & drinks on arrival)

MC: Gus Worland from MMM Grill Team

Speakers: Mike Whitney former test & one day cricketer, Tom Carroll, Andrew Edmondson (NSW & Australian Wheelchair Rugby Player)

Book now  

Note: tickets will not be issued, however, a receipt will be displayed as soon as you complete the transaction.  A list of attendees will be at door.

If you have any donations or contacts for our auction, prizes, etc please email Jack Holland or phone 0438 023 539.

Win a holiday in Fiji - Nippers are holding a raffle through to the end of this season.  Click here for more details.

  

Council Wins Grant to Reduce Impact on Lagoon

Pittwater has been awarded a $40,000 grant from the Greater Sydney Local Land Services.

Mayor Jacqui Townsend said the grant would help restore the creekline and upper catchment of Narrabeen Lagoon, through providing increased assistance to community-based Bushcare groups.

“This important project will ultimately reduce impacts on the Lagoon by creating a healthier ecosystem within the Deep Creek, Bilarong and Elanora areas.

“Council will also provide funding of $50,000 to the project so we can host a series of community planting days,” said Mayor Townsend.

“There will be plenty of opportunity for residents to get involved with four planting days planned over the coming months.”

The Council’s Natural Environment & Education Manager Mark Beharrell said the first planting day would be on Saturday 1 March from 9am to 12pm at Woorarra Lookout Reserve (corner of Woorarra Avenue and Allawah Avenue, Elanora).

Mr Beharrell said a free morning tea and native plants were on offer to volunteers.

“If you’re intending to come please wear sturdy covered shoes, long sleeves, long pants, a hat and sunscreen.”

For more information regarding the Bushcare event, contact Pittwater Council’s Bushcare Officer on 9970 1367 or email helena_dewis@pittwater.nsw.gov.au

 DUAL NAMING FOR PITTWATER

I am a proud descendant of the Garigal people and my Indigenous ancestors were custodians of the lands around Pittwater and Barrenjoey for thousands of years.

Back in 1836 my Great great Uncle Bowen Bungaree lived with his family (a wife and four children) in the Customs house at the bottom of Barrenjoey Headland. Bungaree was a police tracker and one of the first Aboriginal persons to be given a rifle for his own protection. Later in 1853 Bowen was murdered by bush rangers – shot in the back while protecting the new settlers of the area on a hill in Newport. Today the site of Bowen Bungaree’s murder is sign posted as Bush Rangers Hill. Is it appropriate that we recognize the colonial name of this site without respect to our traditional land owners?

From Tasmania, to Melbourne, Hornsby, Dubbo, and Grafton are just a few of many places that have already adopted a Dual Naming policy for road signs that feature corresponding Colonial and Aboriginal names. Here in Pittwater, it is our responsibility to recognise and preserve important cultural sites on Guringai land for our future generations – and the introduction of Dual Naming in Pittwater area is a must.

Please help by writing to Pittwater Mayor, Jacqueline Townsend to show your support Dual Naming today!

www.facebook.com/aboriginalguringaiactiongroupbudawa

Neil Evers, a proud Garigal man and ASG-MWP member

“Dual naming is about recognising the Aboriginal community’s rightful status as the first inhabitants of this land and celebrating their living culture, traditions and language,”  – Lara Giddings, Premier of Tasmania

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Senate calls on Environment Minister to revoke Abbot Point approval - Media releases - 04 Mar 2014 

The Australian Greens’ motion calling the Abbott Government to revoke its approval of the Abbot Point coal port expansion, has passed the Senate today.

“The Senate and the community are sending a strong message to the Abbott Government that dumping millions of tonnes of sludge in the Great Barrier Reef is unacceptable,” Senator Larissa Waters, Australian Greens environment spokesperson, said.

“Minister Hunt has been telling us that the damage from the Abbot Point dumping can be offset but documents released under freedom of information this week show that’s simply not the case.  

“The documents show the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority found that it would be impossible to offset the damage because it was too great.

“Given these startling revelations, Minister Hunt must to revoke his approval of the Abbot Point coal port  in the Great Barrier Reef.

“This precious World Heritage Area is no place for the world’s biggest coal port.

“Our Great Barrier Reef should not be treated as a dump ground for dredge sludge, simply because it’s cheaper for the big mining companies than disposing on land,” Senator Waters said.

Documents released under Freedom of Information reveal that the Great Barrier Marine Park Authority scientists opposed the dredging and dumping operation at Abbot Point Coal Terminal.

Help us hold Environment Minister Greg Hunt to account by sending him a message today: http://grns.mp/savethereef