May 19 - 25, 2024: Issue 626



This Issue: full list in Contents page 

Front Page Issue 626 

'Lynne's Park' At Warriewood Officially Opened

Council Initiates e-bike Safety Campaign

No Free Pass Granted By Vibrancy Reforms Amendment Bill

Synthetic Turf Installed In Pittwater Without Consultation 

From The Council Chamber - May 14, 2024 by Councillor Miranda Korzy

Surf Club Facility Program 2024 Allocations Are Great News For North Narrabeen, Mona Vale, South Curl Curl 

Local Power Poles Transformed To Boost EV Uptake: Australian-First Trial Taking Place Across The Peninsula

2024 NSW Architecture Awards: Six Local Projects On The Shortlist + Nominated Projects + Bondi Mermaids Submission + Jane Cassidy Appointed National President Of The Australian Institute Of Architects - 2024 National Prizes: Philip Thalis Receives Gold Medal

Freshwater- Manly Boy Ian Hanson OAM Inducted As Life Member Into Commonwealth Games Australia 

Aquatics: The Irukandji's Win Eighth Team World Championship and Two Individual Gold Medals At The 2024 ISA World Junior Surfing Championship

Pictures: 2024 Sharkskin NSW IRB Premiership Round 1 - Race Results + Action pictures by Richard Black

Park Bench Philosophers Australian Government’s Joint Select Committee Into Social Media Now Established: Opinions - Proposals Welcomed

Governor Phillip Park Plan Of Management Changes To Facilitate Trial Of Dogs Offleash On North Palm Beach: Have Your Say until June 5

DIY Ideas Mould Inside Your home after all that rain?: How to Keep Air and Surfaces Healthier

Profile of the Week Jordan Lawler Wins 2024 World Surf League GWM Sydney Surf Pro.!: WSL Leaves North Narrabeen In A High Stoke - Tahiti Pro. Commences This Week At Venue For Paris 2024 Olympics Surfing Comp

The WSL roadshow has rolled into North Narrabeen and rolled out again, leaving the site of this National Surfing Reserve a little bit too quiet after 6 days in a row of spectacular surfing by some of the best athletes. There is a lingering, palpable, high stoke.

Just as happened at the Bonsoy Gold Coast Pro the week before, when icons of surfing Mick Fanning, Joel Parkinson, and Stephanie Gilmore joined Kelly Slater in a World Champ's Super Heat celebrating the best of competitive surfing, local legends were part of this iconic surf festival.

On Sunday May 12, Mother's Day, the last heat of the day saw a group of local surfing greats take over the line-up at North Narrabeen for a 40-minute spectacle to see who still rules the roost and entertain the solid Sunday crowds that lined the shore. 

Surfers included 2018 Grand Masters World Champion Rob Bain, Two-time World Champion Tom Carrol, Former CT competitor and big wave world record holder Laura Enever, two-time World Champion and North Narrabeen Boardriders Club President Damian Hardman, and CT event winner Nathan Hedge. 

All five surfers traded waves and had their moments, but it was Laura Enever who earned the biggest highlight of the session for a long left-hander with multiple turns completed on the sand. 

However, the highlight of this year's WSL GWM Sydney Surf Pro presented by Bonsoy was witnessing North Narrabeen's own Jordan Lawler take out the event.

A great way for the North Narrabeen Boardriders Club to kick off their 60 years celebration.

History Council's Search For Modern Architecture Gems From 1940 To 1970 - An Invitation To Provide Input/Suggestions: 12 Local Examples

Council is embarking on a significant initiative to identify and protect the architectural gems of the peninsula and seeks the community’s input and suggestions. 

The Modern Architecture Study, supported by a grant from Heritage NSW, has been commissioned to identify notable Modernist and Mid-Century Modern buildings on the Northern Beaches.  It will contain two sections: 

  1. the preparation of a thematic history of the modern architecture movement on the Northern Beaches and 
  2. the identification and assessment of prime local examples of the movement from the 1940s through to the 1970s

Spurred on by technological and economic changes during this post WWII period, as well as the increased accessibility of the area, building designs rapidly changed. Notable architects of the day such as Harry Seidler, Peter Mueller, Bruce Rickard, Arthur Baldwinson, Stan Symonds, Sydney Anchor, Richard Le Pastrier, Kenneth Woolley and Bruce Rickard amongst others, were increasingly commissioned to design buildings that either embraced the increased availability of new building materials such as reinforced concrete, steel and large pane glass or were designed to sit within the local landscape and embrace natural materials, giving rise to the ‘Sydney Regional School of architecture’ and ‘Organic Architecture’.

The expression of Modernist Architecture in our area was not restricted purely to residential and domestic architecture. There were many examples of industrial, commercial, civic and ecclesiastical buildings which were built in this period, following modernist design principles. Examples include the former Roche office buildings at Cromer, Dee Why Library and St Kevin’s Catholic Church in Dee Why.

A distinct local style of modern architecture called ‘Sydney Regional Architecture’ or the ‘Sydney School” emerged and began to be practised by architects of the day. Inspired by the landforms and beauty of Sydney they increasingly incorporated the existing site conditions and vegetation into their designs, giving rise to a distinct ‘Organic Architecture’ movement which was prevalent in this area. Buildings were designed based on the conditions of the site, with an emphasis on the use of natural materials, such as timber and sandstone, and the retention and integration into the natural landscape. Alexander Stewart Jolly, who designed a number of significant houses in the area, including Hy-Brasil at Avalon Beach, was an early exponent of this organic form of modern architecture.

More information about this study and how to nominate a building for consideration, go to Council’s website here to have your say. Nominations are now open and will close on Sunday 9 June 2024. 

This Issue extracts of two examples from Bayview and Church Point first run in 2023. Both these still exist, retaining their original credos, and were built at the commencement of this emerging movement, melding Art Deco influences with Modernistic lines and materials.

Along with other local examples from the 1938 to circa 1954 period, from Arthur Baldwinson, to inspire and renew the way we see what is around us.

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: May 1, 2024

Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

Contents: Church Point Landscaping, Cancer Council Fundraiser, Charity Boat Race, Fire Shed Dinner, The Tuesday Discussion Group, International Folk Dancing, Island Café, Winter Café and Market Day

To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Monika's DoggieRescue needs volunteers

Monika's DoggieRescue is currently asking for new volunteers to help out at Ingleside.

If you are unable to foster or adopt but are still looking for a way in which to help DoggieRescue, you may be able to assist with looking after the lovelies at Ingleside.

With no experience you can walk Monika's Doggie Rescue dogs or even transport them between various locations.

With minimal training you can help in the office or promoting Monika's Doggie Rescue  at off-site events. 

Monika's Doggie Rescue can provide more intensive training so that you can help with feeding their dogs and cats or even assisting the kennel hands.

Experienced volunteers can even go on to advanced tasks including work placement for those studying in fields related to animal care.

To find out more please visit: doggierescue.com/contact/#contact and give this great local organisation a hand.

Monika's DoggieRescue is a registered charity that believes in saving and re-homing as many pets as they can. For many years Monika Biernacki and a group of volunteers have been rescuing pets from death row and successfully re-homing them with permanent and loving owners.

DoggieRescue E-Magazine MAY 2024 is now available with the beautiful Maeve on the cover. She has a heart-breaking story to tell, and is now looking for her forever family to love. Visit:   https://online.anyflip.com/ourh/tfpi/mobile/index.html


Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme 

The Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) supports regular in-person volunteer visits to give friendship and companionship to older people in our community. 

During a visit a volunteer and older person can do anything they both feel like doing, such as: 
  • enjoy a chat over a cup of tea 
  • take a walk 
  • work on a joint hobby together.
Anyone can refer an older person to be matched with a volunteer visitor, including their aged care service provider, family and friends, or they can refer themselves.

To be eligible, an older person must be receiving government-funded residential aged care or a Home Care Package. This includes care recipients approved or on the National Priority System and excludes those with a Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP).

If you know someone who could benefit from companionship, or to find out more about becoming a volunteer yourself, go to health.gov.au/acvvs 

NSW SES Warringah / Pittwater Unit's Get Ready Workshops 2024

The women of Warringah Pittwater SES are delighted to be presenting their award winning workshops again this winter.

The free 2 hour workshops are for any woman that would like to learn more about how to prepare and protect their home and loved ones during severe weather events.


In March 2024 a group of nine women from the NSW SES Warringah-Pittwater Unit were recognised with an Initiative Award for their “Women Helping Women” workshops, aimed to empower local women with vital home maintenance skills. Through structured sessions, participants gained insights into roof structure, tradie engagement, and emergency preparedness, which helped foster confidence and empowerment.  

See Pittwater Online report:


Invictus Games 2025: EOI sought

Invictus Games: Team Australia are seeking Expressions of Interest to be part of Team Australia at Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025! 

If you are a current for former serving member of the ADF who has been wounded, injured or become during or as a result of your military service, you are eligible to apply. 

The Games give competitors the opportunity to represent our nation on the global stage as part of a celebration of courage and camaraderie alongside their family and friends. 

Applications can be found at https://bit.ly/3Wm8d5m and close 29 May 2024.


Celebrating women in local government

Nominations are now open for the 2024 Ministers’ Awards for Women in Local Government, which recognise the outstanding achievements and contribution of women in councils across NSW.

The 17th annual awards will be presented on Tuesday 20 August 2024 during a ceremony at NSW Parliament, co-hosted by Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig and Minister for Women Jodie Harrison.

The Awards highlight and celebrate women’s excellence with awards recognising individuals and council programs across metropolitan and regional councils. The categories include:
  • Alternative Pathways Award – a female staff member who is breaking down gender stereotypes.
  • Champion of Change Award – a general manager or senior manager who has excelled in supporting and encouraging women’s participation at their council.
  • Elected Representative Award – a councillor who has advanced the position of female elected representatives.
  • Employment Diversity Award – a successful council program to increase female participation in senior leadership roles or at the elected representative level.
  • Woman of Distinction Award – a woman who has demonstrated exceptional innovation, integrity and initiative or who has a positive influence on others.
  • Young Achiever’s Award – an outstanding trainee/apprentice (aged 25 and under).
  • Councillor Lilliane Brady OAM Award – the winner will be determined by the Minister for Local Government to recognise and honour the dedication and tireless work of a female council staff member or elected representative (nominations not required).
Nominations close Friday 14 June 2024. For more information about the Awards or to make a nomination, go to the Office of Local Government website.

Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said:

“As I have travelled around the state to visit councils, I have met some incredible women who work exceptionally hard every day to make their community a better place.

“These awards are a chance to showcase their efforts, and the example they provide to any woman interested in working or serving in local government.

“Last year we received a record number of nominations so I encourage everyone to keep up that enthusiasm and submit a nomination for this year’s awards.”

Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:

“Having been a councillor and mayor myself, I’m very much aware of the many hardworking women in councils across the state, supporting and contributing to their communities every day.

“By recognising their achievements and commitment, we can inspire and empower the next generation of local government leaders as we continue to work towards gender equality in NSW.”

Council information sessions: NSW Government housing reforms

Council is hosting information sessions for residents on the NSW government’s proposals to increase housing heights and density on the Northern Beaches. 

Council has called on the government to scrap the proposals due to the anticipated scale of proposed development having long lasting environmental and social impacts for the local area. 

Mayor Sue Heins encouraged local residents to attend an information session to understand what the proposals would mean for them. 

“We want to be part of the solution to Sydney’s housing crisis, but we cannot support this one-size-fits-all approach to housing density which will put inappropriate housing in inappropriate locations and take away Council’s ability to properly and strategically plan for growth in our area,” Mayor Heins said.  

“We’ll see increased pressure on our already struggling roads, public transport and community infrastructure, and in some areas see a reduction in trees and heritage protection. 

“I encourage residents to register to attend one of the sessions to learn more about what is proposed, how it will affect you and what you can do about it.”

The sessions will be hosted by Council Planning staff who will host one event in each of the 5 Council wards. The events are free but registration is essential. Those interested in attending a session may register here. 

Monday 20 May, 6 - 7pm
Curl Curl Sports Club, Abbott Road, Curl Curl

Thursday 23 May, 6 - 7pm
Tramshed – Berry Hall, 1395 Pittwater Road, Narrabeen

Thursday 30 May, 6 - 7pm            
Belrose Hall, Corner Forest Way & Bambara Roads, Belrose

Monday 3 June, 6 - 7pm 
Manly Seniors - Main Hall, Corner Pittwater & Balgowlah Roads, Manly

Thursday 6 June, 6 - 7pm
Newport Community Centre – Main Hall, 11-13 The Boulevarde, Newport 

Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week

Bubbles & Fizz 

3yo & 2yo Cavoodles


Bubbles and Fizz are a very bonded pair. Fizz MAY be the daughter of Bubbles. They are sweet but super timid dogs who have not experienced much in their lives and most likely came from a breeding establishment. They both has very gently natures but scared of the human touch. They do not cope being away from each other. They need a patient owner who has time and experience to draw them out of their shells and get them used to walking on lead and suburban living. They are very social with other small dogs. They have non-shedding coats. Bubbles weighs 5.7kg and Fizz weighs 5.9kg. They suit apartment living with home based workers who have had some rescue experience. All our dogs come with desexed, fully vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DoggieRescue Vet. Their adoption fee is $2400. 

Anya

8yo Maremma


Anya is a gentle but slightly timid girl. She loves gentle handling and walks well on loose lead. She will bark at some dogs going by. She has lived in an apartment for some of her life and she has been around smaller children in the past. She knows basic commands like sit, lie, down, stay, stand and shake hands. At night she settles quietly. She is a sweet gentle girl who is looking for a quiet home for her retirement years. She has a long coat that needs brushing and possibly clipping. She weighs 34kg. She has been used to apartment living but would enjoy a house with garden. She suits full time workers.

All our dogs come with desexed, fully vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DoggieRescue Vet. Her adoption fee is $450. 

For further details call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133  or email  Monika@DoggieRescue.com.  RON R251000024

Powerhouse Museum Ultimo revitalisation: Have your say

The community is being encouraged to share their feedback on the proposed design to revitalise the much-loved and iconic Powerhouse Museum in Ultimo.

On exhibition until Thursday 30 May 2024, the new design honours the heritage of the buildings by retaining the Wran building, and transforms the heritage listed Boiler House, Turbine Hall, Switch House and Ultimo Post Office buildings to create four flexible, dynamic exhibition spaces.

The NSW’s Government’s $250 million investment in a heritage renewal will reorient the museum’s main entrance and create a new public square and entry via The Goods Line to enable better connection with surrounding precincts and public transport.

Audiences and community will benefit from improved exhibition and programming spaces and allow the Powerhouse Museum to accommodate international exhibitions and increase the community’s access to the renowned Powerhouse Collection of more than 500,000 objects.

The visitor experience will be improved through easier visitor circulation, expanded programming, and increase its use for the community.

Key features of the Powerhouse Museum Ultimo design include:          
  • Four flexible, dynamic exhibition spaces that allow the museum to create and present high quality, internationally leading museum exhibitions across the applied arts and applied sciences and featuring the Powerhouse Collection.
  • New public domain spaces including a 2000sqm square at the northern end of The Goods Line, the Post Office Courtyard on Harris Street and an internal courtyard accessible from Macarthur Street.
  • Establishing one central, intuitive, and accessible visitor circulation system to access exhibition, program, and education spaces to support a high-quality visitor experience.
  • Reorienting the museum’s entrance to the Goods Line, improving access from the light rail and Darling Square. A newly activated façade housing creative industries along Harris Street, which will improve the museum’s contribution to the Ultimo streetscape.
  • Separating front-of-house and back-of-house operations from exhibition and circulation spaces.
  • Dedicated spaces designed for the Powerhouse learning programs, enabling the museum to create immersive educational experiences, workshops and programs catered to students and learners of all ages.
  • Conservation of the heritage-listed original Power Station buildings for their ongoing adaptive reuse by the Powerhouse.
Get more information on the State Significant Development Application (SSDA) and supporting Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and make a submission by Thursday 30 May 2024.

Infrastructure NSW is available to support the community to understand the detailed and technical information through community information sessions held throughout the Public Exhibition period. 


The NSW Government will carefully consider all submissions on the revitalised designs to ensure the community’s voice is actively incorporated into the future of the Powerhouse Museum in Ultimo.

Five formal consultation periods for the project have been held between 2020 and 2024, with the 6thnow underway. Each has included engagement with the local community, neighbours, stakeholders, government authorities and agencies. The feedback received has been considered during the evolution of the project. Engagement with the community will continue during upcoming phases of the project, including detailed design, construction and operation. All feedback has been used to help inform the current EIS, as part of the SSDA.

Minister for the Arts John Graham said:
“The Powerhouse is one of Australia’s oldest and most important cultural institutions. This heritage revitalisation will transform the museum and ensure future generations can continue to enjoy an exceptional experience when they visit the museum.

“The new and improved plans bring the museum into the 21st Century and make good on our commitment to retain and improve the focus of the museum on applied arts and sciences.

“Importantly, in this modest revitalisation we are honouring the history of the museum by revealing the heritage elements of the original Ultimo Power Station buildings and refurbishing the Wran building to achieve greater museum functionality.”

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:
“Releasing the design for revitalisation of the Powerhouse Museum Ultimo is a major milestone for the project and for the future of the museum.

“The design demonstrates how the museum will be revitalised, whilst maintaining the heritage and character of the buildings.

“We are confident we are providing what the community wants for the future of the museum and we are encouraging anyone interested to have their say.”

Powerhouse Museum Ultimo Chief Executive Lisa Havilah said:
“The design addresses specific community and stakeholder feedback through extending the lifespan of the built form, acknowledging and celebrating the social significance of the Wran Building, addressing circulation and legibility and improving sustainability.

“The revitalised Powerhouse Museum Ultimo will reopen with more and increased quality exhibition spaces. This will be achieved by decluttering the spaces, removing mezzanines allows full use of the spaces. This will restore and reveal the original heritage in the buildings and create high-quality flexible exhibition spaces.

“This revitalisation will celebrate the best of the museum’s past while adding new and enhanced exhibition and programming spaces, along with educational spaces for future generations to engage with the applied arts and sciences.”


Picture: Artists' Impression of new Powerhouse Museum Ultimo community spaces

Wanted: A Granny Flat

I am a mature aged lady, n s, car owner. I have been in 2 Granny flats in the Upper Northern Beaches area for a total of 11 years keeping an eye on the elderly owners for their families. 

I was a member of the RMYC Newport and a Volunteer with MRNSW as well before I went away last year for a year. Now back I would like a similar situation. My contact is Sandie on 0427 581 017 with references.
Sandie Henry

Avalon Beach Red Cross Needs Volunteers

Red Cross Shops sell new and preloved clothes, accessories and homewares to raise funds to help people experiencing crisis and hardship. Thanks to community donations and the help of volunteers, each year, millions of items are diverted from landfill. Funds raised by our shops ensure other Red Cross teams provide care and support where it is needed the most.

Join our team and make a difference. 

48 Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon Beach
Ph: (02) 8414 1801


Nominate a Volunteer today

Nominations have now opened for the 2024 NSW Volunteer of the Year awards which celebrate the hard work and dedication of volunteers in the community. 

Member for Manly, James Griffin said volunteers are the backbone of so many community groups, organisations and initiatives. 

“Volunteers contribute $178 billion to the NSW economy, and I know here locally, our community just wouldn’t run as it does, without the hard work and dedication of volunteers,” Mr Griffin said. 

“I’ve said many times that volunteers are the backbone of our community, and that is particularly true in the Manly electorate. 

“From church groups, surf clubs and emergency services personnel to hospital auxiliaries, St John’s Ambulance volunteers and service club members, there are those in our community who work day and night to make our part of the world a better place to live. 

“There are countless projects and initiatives in our electorate that simply would never have happened without the work of volunteers, and I sincerely thank everyone who sacrifices their time and effort for our community’s betterment.” 

Mr Griffin said, “If you know someone who deserves to be recognised as part of the 2024 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, I encourage you to get your nomination in now!” 

The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards are an annual program aimed at recognising the incredible dedication, effort and community service of our state’s volunteers, volunteer leaders and volunteer teams. 

There are eight categories of awards including Adult Volunteer of the Year, Young Volunteer of the Year, Senior Volunteer of the Year, and more. 

Nominations for this year’s awards close on 14 June 2024.
For more information, visit the The Centre of Volunteering website at:  www.volunteering.com.au/awards/about-the-awards

Part of the 100 strong volunteer members of Marine Rescue Broken Bay. Photo: Michael Mannington, Community Photography

Long Reef boardwalk & bridge replacement: in FRP (Fibre-reinforced plastic)- have your say

Closes May 12
Council are planning to replace the boardwalk and bridge, relocating it slightly further away from the coast to minimise the impacts of storm surges. 

Relocation of the boardwalk results in minor changes to two greens and a pathway on Long Reef Golf Course. Council states the Golf Club are supportive of the current option.
The new boardwalk is proposed to be constructed from Fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP; also called fibre-reinforced polymer, or in American English fiber) is a composite material made of a polymer matrix reinforced with fibres. The fibres are usually glass (in fibreglass), carbon (in carbon-fibre-reinforced polymer), aramid, or basalt.

Council invite you to provide feedback by:
Please include 'Long Reef boardwalk & bridge replacement' in the subject line of all email or written feedback.


Plan image: NBC

Entries open for annual Environmental Art and Design Prize

The council invites submissions for its annual Environmental Art and Design Prize. Artists and designers are invited to submit their entries from 20 March to 19 May 2024. 

Open to artists and designers of all levels and backgrounds from across Australia, the prize seeks to showcase innovative and thought-provoking works that explore the theme of the environment, with an aim to inspire action toward a sustainable future.

This year’s judges are renowned experts in their field, industrial designer Trent Jansen, visual artist Khaled Sabsabi, and fashion designer Genevieve Smart. Finalists will be announced on 28 May, with the winners announced on 1 August 2024.

This year’s prize money across the four prizes has increased with the visual arts and design winners each receiving an impressive $20,000. The people’s choice winner and the young artist/designer winner will receive $3,000 each. 

Finalists will be featured in an exhibition across three galleries, Manly Art Gallery and Museum (MAGM), Curl Curl Creative Space, and Mona Vale Creative Space Gallery from 2 to 25 August 2024.

To enter or for more information about the prize and the judges, visit:  HERE

Letters to the Editor

Letters should preferably be 150 to 175 words, but considering the magazines inability to word limit itself - that remains optional. Letters must include the writer's address and phone number and 'permission to publish'. Letters should not contain attachments - these will be requested if required to illustrate content/subject.  Letters should be exclusive to Pittwater Online News. The editor's prerogative includes editing letters for length, grammar or legal reasons, among other considerations. Email: pittwateronlinenews@bigpond.com

Pittwater Community Groups: 


Sports (plus Social Members)

Gardens and Environment

Rural Fire Brigades
Services - Community Organisations

Arts and Social

Speed humps on McCarrs Creek Rd: please share Wildlife Data 

Local wildlife rescuers are asking all members of the public to report any roadkill on McCarrs Ck Rd or any other road in the NB (Wakehurst Parkway or Mona Vale Road for instance) on www.wildlifemapping.org

It records the GPS position, date, sex, species. Photos can be added as they help in identification. The data is then forwarded to OEH and Transport NSW as it can help establish the best places to place  mitigation. Thanking you all in advance for your help with this. There is so much wildlife on the move in our area at present due to various pressures. Although we have had pictures sent to us, many of these have no date or location. There is a database that volunteers maintain but this needs three pieces of information:
  1. The position via GPS or road and suburb
  2. The date
  3. The animal
The details can be entered into the database directly by you at: www.wildlifemapping.org

Warriewood Community Centre Build has commenced



Screening up around Heather Nelson centre at Warriewood on Monday May 13 2024. AJG/PON pics

NSW Police Force Pay Tribute to 118 Years of Service

NSW Police Force Media Unit:
Today (Friday 17 May 2024), marked the retirement of three NSWPF officers with a combined service of 118 years. 

Sergeant Ian Miller APM is unique in that he has spent his entire service at the one command – all 46 years of it!!! 

Joining as a 19-year-old in 1978 he commenced at Balmain Police Station and later transferred to Glebe Police Station. Both stations now fall under the Leichhardt Police Area Command. 

In 1984 he was commended for his actions when he saved the life of a man who was drowning in Blackwattle Bay. 

For his distinguished service to policing Ian was awarded the Australian Police Medal in 2020.

Today, his own son is a police officer who also holds the rank of sergeant. 

Another rare achievement for Ian is that despite his lengthy career he has only taken two days as sick leave in that entire time.



Sergeant Ian Miller being farewelled today outside of Glebe Police Station. Photo: NSW Police Force 

Not only has Senior Constable Mick Taplin of Mt Druitt Police Area Command served the people of NSW for 37 years but he also served the nation from 1985 until 2020 as a Commando in the Australian Army Reserve.  

Whilst with the Reserves he performed deployments in East Timor, Iraq and Afghanistan. 

After having spent the first two years of his service at Manly Police Station Mick would transfer to the Tactical Response Group in 1989 and would later go on to be one of the founding members of the Tactical Operations Unit. 

Since 2000 he has been attached to Mt Druitt Police Area Command. 



Senior Constable Mick Taplin at his march out parade at Mt Druitt Police Station today. Photo: NSW Police Force 

For the team here at the Police Media Unit who brings you these posts on social media it’s on a very sad note that we farewell one of our own – Acting Inspector Meg Burke. 

Meg only commenced with the PMU late last year but quickly made a favourable impression with her enthusiasm and pleasant nature. 

She started her policing career in 1989 performing general duties in what is now the Northern Beaches Police Area Command.  

In 1997 she transferred to the Police Recruitment Branch where she would spend the next 26 years. 

It was whilst she was at the PRB that her and a colleague launched a series of online fitness videos to assist potential police recruits known as 'Meg & Mick’s Training Tips'. The videos quickly developed a cult following and are credited with helping many applicants achieve the minimum fitness standard to join the NSWPF. 


Acting Inspector Meg Burke. Photo: NSW Police Force

We would like to extend a big thanks to Ian, Mick and Meg for their service and we wish them all the best in their retirement.

Pittwater Baseball Club: new Life Member announced

Friday May 17 2024
We are thrilled to announce that Stuart Hanrahan has been unanimously voted in as a Life Member of the Pittwater Baseball Club.



Stuart's journey with us began as a young Pittwater Junior, and throughout his baseball career, he has consistently given back to the Pittwater community and the local baseball scene in countless ways.

His dedication, passion, and unwavering support have made a significant impact, and we are proud to honour Stuart with this well-deserved recognition.

Below is a summary of some of Stuart's baseball achievements and accolades throughout his career thus far.
  • Played at Pittwater 1981-89
  • Played Manly Junior Reps 1984-89
  • Played Manly U18 1990 (champions) and 1991
  • Played Manly 1st – 3rd grade at various stages during the 1990s
  • Inaugural Manly USA Tour 1988
  • Coached Manly Junior Reps 1989-1999
  • Coached various Manly Grade teams in the 1990s
  • Youngest coach to receive BA Level 2 accreditation at age 21
  • Level ‘0, 1 and 2’ instructor for Manly coaches at numerous stages over the past 30 years
  • NSW Junior U14 Assistant and Head Coach 1996-2001
  • Cal Ripken Australian Team Coach 2002
  • Coached Manly 1st Grade to their first Championship in 31 years (2007) and runners-up (2008)
  • Head Coach – Australian Schoolboys Team (USA tours) in 2009 + 2011
  • Coached Manly Junior Rep teams over the past 5 years
  • Current Head Coach Manly Junior Rep Program
  • Cal Ripken Australian Team Coach 2022
  • PBC Committee member past 5 years
  • Manly Association Secretary 2020-2022
  • Junior League Coach 2023 -2024
  • Pittwater Cup Tournament Director
  • Pittwater Baseball Club Sponsor 2023-2024 via High Performance Baseball.
Congratulations, Stuart, and thank you for your unwavering dedication to Pittwater Baseball Club and the sport of baseball as a whole.

Pittwater Baseball Club
Find out more at: www.pittwaterbaseball.com.au

Supporting students with a disability: ‘Contribute to this audit’

The Audit Office of NSW is currently looking into the Department of Education’s Disability Strategy and receiving the views of residents.

Overview
Around one in five New South Wales public school students have a disability (183,000 students in 2022). Eighty-six per cent of students with disability learn in mainstream classes in mainstream schools, 11% learn in support classes in mainstream schools, and 3% in schools for specific purposes (SSPs). The Department of Education’s Disability Strategy (2019) committed to build a more inclusive education system and identified actions across four key reform areas:
  • Strengthen support: investing in teachers and other support staff
  • Increase resources and flexibility: enabling schools to operate with more flexibility
  • Improve the family experience: making experiences better and easier
  • Track outcomes: building an evidence base to measure progress. 
This audit will assess whether the department is effectively supporting students with disability in NSW public schools. 

Share your views
If you have experiences or views on support for students with disability in NSW public schools, you can share them with the Audit Office. This can be done anonymously if you wish.

The Audit Office will consider all feedback provided as they audit the NSW Department of Education.

To provide feedback, click on ‘Contribute to this audit’ or the message icon at the top right of this webpage on the NSW Audit Office website.

Feedback will be accepted until close of business Monday 3 June 2024.

Manly MP Supports Opportunity Class Petition  

Manly MP, James Griffin has thrown his support behind an ePetition opposing a reduction in Opportunity Class (OC) places in seven NSW Public Schools, including Balgowlah Heights. 
 
Mr Griffin said the decision to halve the number of quality OC places in these schools fails to uphold the Minns Labor Government’s own commitment to support our public schools. 
 
“While creating new OC classes in schools which currently don’t offer them is welcome, it shouldn’t be at the cost of schools which have been successfully conducting the classes for their intellectually gifted students.” 
 
Mr Griffin said, “Instead of creating new OC places to accommodate population growth, the proposal rearranges existing places, which could harm the quality of the NSW OC program.” 
 
The petition highlights the potential adverse impacts of the proposal.
 
It halves access to well-established OC places, which predominantly serve students who could not otherwise attend these schools and are willing to travel to do so.  
It compromises learning outcomes by moving children to schools with no experience in delivering OC programs or into composite year 5/6 classes, where only half the time is spent delivering their curriculum. 
It affects the emotional well-being of intellectually gifted students with special needs who require extra support. 
It places greater strain on teaching staff, who will struggle to deliver a quality program to students at significantly different learning stages and maturity levels in the same class. 
It reduces learning resources and highly qualified staff in OC schools, negatively impacting other teachers, students, and the broader community. 

Mr Griffin said, “The petition asks the NSW Legislative Assembly to call on the Government to refrain from implementing cuts to existing OC schools and engage with the community on any proposed changes. 
 
“If you agree to the ePetition please click on the link below and add your name.''


Planning for Pittwater Forum

Planning is a contentious issue in Pittwater, with the NSW government’s proposals to increase density in residential areas the latest threat to the precious environment in which we live. With Northern Beaches Council's draft Local Environment Plan due out next month, the temperature is only likely to rise.    

With all this in mind, a Greens' Planning in Pittwater forum will investigate the Labor proposals, with our MLC Sue Higginson, chair of the NSW Parliamentary inquiry into the planning proposals, providing a ringside view of the issues. Environment and Planning lawyer, James Ryan, will explain the way the proposals would work if they go ahead.

Date: May 22, 2024
Time 7.30 - 9.30pm  
Newport Community Centre, Main Hall.

Bring your questions - there'll be plenty of time for discussion.

Miranda Korzy on behalf of Northern Beaches Greens


Taylors Point Wharf - remedial works: feedback invited

Council states a condition assessment of the existing wharf located at the end of Taylors Point Road, off Hudson Parade, Clareville has been undertaken and identified safety repairs are needed.

Major refurbishment is needed to bring the wharf back to a good condition and meet the requirements of the Australian Standards - guidelines for the design of marine infrastructure.

Council have prepared an environmental assessment (Review of Environmental Factors) due to the sensitivities around the marine environment and to meet State Government requirements. Council is now encouraging the community to take a look at the document and provide any feedback on the assessment, prior to construction which is expected to commence in the middle of the year.

Council  invite you to provide your feedback at:

Feedback closes June 4 2024


North Narrabeen Reserve (including Rat Park): Draft Plan of Management - open for feedback

Council have placed a draft PoM for North Narrabeen Reserve. Key proposals include:
  • Installing an all-weather synthetic surface on Field 2 subject to appropriate environmental investigations and the release of the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure’s guidelines for synthetic sportsfield planning
  • Formalising Field 7 as a lit sportsfield and formalising the adjacent overflow car park
  • New improved amenities throughout the Reserve that provide better and equitable access for people with a disability, families and female participants
  • Improvements at the Rugby Park (Field 1) for spectators, players, sport, administration and events
  • Upgrades to the other sportsfields, ancillary facilities and the clubhouse buildings
  • New inclusive play and recreation space for children and young people
  • Additional tree plantings and new and upgraded landscaping
  • Improvements to roadways, parking and pedestrian and cycling pathways
  • Safety improvements at the golf centre
  • Providing picnic/seating facilities across the reserve for socialising and passive recreation opportunities
  • Authorisation of leases, licences and other agreements for use of the Reserve
  • Proposed works are dependent on the allocation of funding and will be assessed in accordance with any relevant planning and environmental requirements and legislation.


Governor Phillip Park Plan of Management: Have your say

Closes: Sunday 2 June 2024
Council states it is currently reviewing and updating the Plan of Management for Governor Phillip Park, Palm Beach and considering the recreational, environmental, social and cultural values and characteristics of the area.

The plan will guide the use and management of the park to meet community needs now and into the future.

Council want to know how you use the park, what you value and any ideas and aspirations you have for this well-loved area.

Why is the Council preparing a new Plan of Management (PoM) for Governor Phillip Park?
Council states a new Governor Phillip Park PoM is required to:
  • incorporate a proposal for an off-leash dog trial
  • meet council's obligations under the Crown Land Management Act 2016
  • determine current and future needs of the community in relation to the use and management of the park to ensure that the site and facilities continues to meet the expectations of users and the community
North Palm Beach was the scene, just a few weeks back, where a local wildlife volunteer was fending offleash dogs away from a distressed rare turtle, and where dogs may be seen offleash on the beach, despite this being a no dogs zone, all day every day, unchallenged.

See Pittwater Online April report: Dog Attacks On Wildlife On North Palm Beach

In response to an earlier 'consultation' residents and families who used the beach objected to the area being turned over to becoming a 'dog beach', pointing out this will be used to access the Barrenjoey headland and dunes areas, where wildlife lives.

Council states it resolved on 22 August 2023 to prepare draft Plans of Management for areas proposed for a potential dog off-leash trial at Governor Phillip Park in Palm Beach and Mona Vale Beach (south). Plans of Management are legally required before Council can make a decision to progress any potential trials.

The scope of the Plan of Management relates to the entire reserve, so they want to hear the community’s views on all use and management of Governor Phillip Park.

Barrenjoey Head is managed by the National Park and Wildlife Service and is part of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.

A plan of management was adopted by the new NSW Government on February 21 2024 and can be viewed at Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, Lion Island, Long Island and Spectacle Island nature reserves plan of management | NSW Environment and Heritage More information on those changes can be read about in the Pittwater Online January 2024 report:

Governor Phillip Park is Crown land and owned and managed by the NSW Government.

The Minister responsible for Crown land can appoint Council as the Crown land manager for a Crown land reserve. Council is then responsible for it’s care, control and management. The land must be managed in accordance with the Crown Land Management Act 2016 and the Local Government Act 1993.

Key dates listed for changing the Governor Phillip Plan of Management are:
  • Timeline item 1 - active; Apr - Jun 2024: Idea gathering, Gathering residents ideas and aspirations for this area
  • Timeline item 2 - incomplete; Jun - Jul 2024: Review and report - Review community ideas and report what they heard
  • Timeline item 3 - incomplete; Aug - Oct 2024: Prepare the draft PoM
  • Timeline item 4 - incomplete; Nov 2024: Refer draft PoM to NSW Government
  • Timeline item 5 - incomplete; Feb 2025: Report draft PoM to Council, Requesting public exhibition
  • Timeline item 6 - incomplete; Mar - Apr 2025: Public exhibition, Gathering residents feedback on their draft PoM
  • Timeline item 7 - incomplete; May 2025: Review community feedback, update draft PoM
  • Timeline item 8 - incomplete; Jun 2025: Report updated draft PoM to NSW Government
  • Timeline item 9 - incomplete; Aug 2025: Report updated draft PoM to Council, Requesting adoption

Rotary Art Show 2024: Calling all Artists! 

The Rotary Club of Upper Northern Beaches  are thrilled to invite you to exhibit your works at the Rotary Art Show 2024, which will take place on July 20th and 21st at the Mona Vale Memorial Hall. 

Applications close Tuesday June 18 2024.

The exhibition will be conducted by the Rotary Club of Upper Northern Beaches with the proceeds supporting Lifeline and Rotary Youth Programs. 
We are delighted to confirm that Sarah Montgomery from Sydney Road Gallery & ArtSmart will be the official judge, awarding $1,500 for the show's Top Prize. We will also be running a People's Choice Award, which has a prize of $500 for the winner. 


SUBMIT YOUR ART NOW via the link below:

Whether you're a seasoned exhibitor or a first-time participant, we welcome you to submit your work. The link includes all the delivery details, key dates, and conditions of entry.


Winter Café and Market Day: Catherine Park Scotland Island

Sunday 23 June, 10 - 1 pm


Time To Get Your Flu Vaccine

A statement by the Head of the interim Australian Centre for Disease Control Professor Paul Kelly.

World Immunisation Week (24 – 30 April) is a timely reminder for everyone in Australia to book their annual flu vaccination.

Free vaccines are now available for people most at risk of complications through the Australian Government’s National Immunisation Program. For those not eligible, you can purchase a vaccine through your immunisation provider.

People can get their vaccine at general practices, pharmacies, and immunisation clinics – and in many cases, at their workplace.

Although we can’t predict the 2024 flu season, we can look at, and learn from, key outcomes from the 2023 season.

Last year, the highest notification rates for flu were in children under 14 years. But concerningly, the vaccine uptake was very low in this population group.

In good news, the 2023 vaccine was very effective at protecting people from needing to go to hospital or visit their GP.'

'Children under 5 years of age are at increased risk of getting severely ill or dying from the flu.

In Australia, 39 people died from the flu last year – and of these, 9 were children younger than 16 years. This was higher than the number of flu-associated deaths in children in 2022 and in many pre-COVID-19 pandemic years.

This is a tragic reminder that the flu is not the common cold, which people often mistake it for. It is a serious virus that can cause severe illness, hospitalisation and death among otherwise healthy children and adults.

I encourage everyone 6 months of age or over to get vaccinated against the flu. It could save your life!

People eligible for free flu vaccine doses include children aged 6 months to under 5 years, pregnant people, First Nations Australians, people aged 65 years or older and people with certain medical conditions that put them at greater risk.

For convenience and if recommended, COVID-19 vaccines can be given at the same time.

Please join us in celebrating 100 years  of  Creative Leisure: 1924 – 2024

What are your memories of Creative Leisure?
Calling past participants in any Creative Leisure Movement activities, to send us your stories or experiences.
By Post: Northern Beaches Creative Leisure & Learning Inc
PO Box 1718  WARRIEWOOD 2102
Phone: 9944 6027


E-Bikes On Footpaths

Residents continue to experience being almost struck or mowed down on footpaths in shopping areas and other places by youngsters and teenagers speeding on e-bikes. The same is occurring with e-scooters and e-skateboards, which are illegal when used in public places -  NSW Police can issue a fine of $723 for the use of these in public places.

In NSW children under 16 can ride on the footpath unless there are signs prohibiting cycling.

Bicycle riders aged 16 years and over must not ride on a footpath unless they are:
  • an adult supervising a child under the age of 16
  • a postal worker riding a bicycle in the course of their work duties
  • a rider carrying a child under 10 as a passenger
  • a rider with a medical condition who is carrying a medical certificate that states a medical practitioner believes the rider should be allowed to ride on the footpath
  • a rider accompanying a rider with a medical condition.
All riders must keep to the left and give way to pedestrians, not expect them to get out of their way when using either a footpath or shard path.

It is legal to ride on some small roads however Transport for NSW recommends children do not ride scooters, skateboards or rollerblades on roads. 

It's the law to wear a helmet in public spaces when on a bicycle.
  • All petrol-powered bicycles are illegal on NSW roads and road-related areas such as footpaths, shared paths, cycle ways and cycle paths
  • All privately owned e-scooters are illegal in public spaces.
There are two types of permitted e-bikes: 
  • Power-assisted pedal cycles 
  • Electrically power-assisted cycles. 
The rider must primarily propel these bikes – a motor can't be the only source propelling it. The motor should only help the rider, like when going uphill or facing strong winds. 

If you see an e-bike speeding over 25kms this is illegal and a Fine of $723 can be imposed by Police.  

If an e-device is endangering the public call 000 or if not an emergency the NSW Police Assistance line on 131 444.  

Those NSW Police information sheets from a few years back show the speed limits and in where they are permitted;


 

Click on logo above to visit their website.

Slow Down: Wildlife Crossing

Please contact Sydney Wildlife Rescue on (02) 9413 4300 for advice if you hit a native animal or come across an injured one while driving. It is helpful if you can provide an accurate location or landmark to assist our rescuers who will pouch check marsupials for joeys, so little lives like Phoebe can be saved. 


 
Photo: Phoebe the Swamp Wallaby by Jane Notice by Sydney Wildlife Rescue

Report Hate Crimes

If you are subjected to hate on social media or online you should keep evidence by taking screen shots of the abuse including usernames, URLs and any other relevant information. 
You can report the abuse directly to the platform and report in person at any Police Station. If you witness a hate incident or hate crime but are not the victim, you can still make a report to the NSW Police.

In an Emergency call Triple Zero (000). If not urgent, you can report online at crimestoppers.com.au or call 1800 333 000 or report in person at any Police Station. 

JP Public Register

You can find a Justice of the Peace (JP) using the online Public Register. You can search by postcode, name of a JP, day of availability, language spoken and JP registration number. The register lists a JP’s location, availability and telephone number. Please note that JPs are volunteers and may not be available at all times. ​Click here to access the JP Public Register. NB: There are  3 J.P’s working in Pittwater RSL Sub-Branch office, we work every Monday (10:30am to 15:30)except on public holidays:
  1. Terry Jones J.P.
  2. Robert (Bob) Wood J.P.
  3. Deborah Hendy(Carter) J.P

Mona Vale Residents Association

Mona Vale Residents Association is a community group encouraging involvement on important matters within the Mona Vale area. Email: mvrasydney@gmail.com


Community News

Community News Pages list articles that ran each week as well as reports run in other pages: Inbox and Environment News archives etc.

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