May 1 - 31, 2026: Issue 654

Front Page Issue 654

Week Three May 2026: Issue 654 (published Sunday May 17)

Council Draft Budget 2026/27 Open for Feedback Until Sunday May 24: A Delve into the Details

Regan's Bushfire Protection Bill Voted Down

Pictures Mona Vale Raiders Mother's Day 2026 Rounds at Newport Oval: Round 4

Australian Interschools Surfing Championships 2026: Three Local Schools Take Part

Aquatics Royal Prince Edward Yacht Club Lodges Challenge For 38th America’s Cup

Forest High School Official Opening: May 15 2026

Steggall slams Budget for failure of leadership in climate resilience investment - + Will this budget really make housing fairer for more Australians? It’s a good start + A budget with a bundle of reforms in a time of ‘extreme uncertainty’

ANZAC Village Seniors Housing SSD to Remove almost 500 Trees from Narrabeen area - allow for 1600 vehicle spaces

DA for 120 Mona Vale Road Warriewood site refused by planning panel

Park Bench Philosophers National Volunteers Week 2026: Make This your Year to Volunteer in your Community

DIY Ideas Autumn DIY Jobs: Exterior Jobs to Keep Everything Dry and Cosy Inside the Home 

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Week Two May 2026: Issue 654 (published Sunday May 10)

Profile: The Kerry Gleeson Centre, Mona Vale

History: Narrabeen Lakes Sailing Club History Celebration of 121 Summers Spent 'Messing About in Boats'

Vale Shane Stedman OAM, 1941-2026

State Government's Wakehurst Parkway flood improvement Works to Commence May 11

Aquatics Merc’s legacy will be part of every boardrider club’s shark surveillance set up: SLSNSW Drone to stay on Peninsula at 4 beaches until June 30

Scotland Island Road + Drainage Works Completed

Narrabeen Lake amenities Building DA Lodged

Pictures Pittwater 2026 for Mother's Day by Joe Mills, A J Guesdon, Kevin Murray and Michael Mannington OAM

Scruby Presses Government For Critical Funding Boost to Women's Services

$387 million boost for the CSIRO - 300+ Jobs still to go

Park Bench Philosophers Archibald - Wynne - Sulman Prize Winners 2026

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Week One May 2026: Issue 654 (published Sunday May 3)

Profile of the Week: David Elfick 

History: Palladium Palm Beach 1930 to 2026, Art Deco in Pittwater

Stephanie Galloway Brown's Portrait of Layne Beachley + Andrea Wilson's Portrait of Richard Leplastrier AO are Archibald 2026 Finalists

George Pittar Wins 2026 Margaret River Pro.!

Northern Beaches Hospital officially transitions to public hands - Nurses and midwives at Northern Beaches Hospital to receive expanded opportunities in public health system

Flags Down on 2025/2026 Patrol Season: SLSNSW Distributes Publicly Accessible Shark Bite Kits to All NSW Surf Clubs - Going Up at 129 surf clubs

Aquatics: Marine Rescue NSW volunteers complete demanding boating season: more than 7 thousand safely returned to shore - MAYDAY fundraising campaign 2026 Launched

Busy storm season wraps up as SES continues to boost capabilities with new flood rescue vehicles

Pictures Bangalley Headland Hazard Reduction: Open Day for Local Fire-Rescue NSW Stations on Saturday May 9 + Time to check your Fire Alarms

Lion Island Series 2026: Race 1

Not Done Yet: Award Winning Piemaker still at Careel Bay Shops until end of August

Warringah Freeway upgrade completion: Please Familiarise Yourself With The Changes

Historic Sydney Hobart champion Solveig set to shine at CYCA’s Great Veterans Race on May 9 - Entries now Open

2026 People of Post Grant recipients includes Sargood on Collaroy Community BBQ program + Aussie Hero Quilts

Guardians League announced: New Platform for Surf Racing Commences 2027

Park Bench Philosophers: How One pygmy blue whale's song unlocks oceans of data 

DIY Ideas Mother's Day 2026: Give Mum some new plants for her Ever Blooming Native Flowering Plants Garden 

Residents warned of Ross River Virus risk: Detected at Narrabeen-Warriewood

Hawkesbury-Nepean River System Coastal Management Program (Pittwater) Stage 4: Feedback Invited until May 31

Helen Pitt Returns to Avalon to speak about her new book: Luna Park with Sarah Macdonald - May 7 at ABSLSC, tickets available now

Regulation of sunscreens in Australia: Feedback Invited - closes May 23

Profile of the Week Rosie Schonell: ‘Grades don’t define you’ - author and former teacher challenges education norms in debut novel

Clareville local Rosie Schonell is a former English teacher with a passion for telling spooky tales. Her debut novel, Breaking School Rules is Easy was published on March 6 by Hembury Books. 

Breaking School Rules is Easy is a middle-grade mystery that follows main characters Billie and Minty as they investigate the eerie happenings tied to a tragic local family and the abandoned house behind the girls’ college they attend. As they solve riddles and puzzles linked to the mystery, they learn being smart isn’t necessarily about academic success - it can also be about curiosity, creativity and having the courage to think differently. 

Rosie has a Bachelor of Arts with a Diploma of Education from Macquarie University and a Master of Special Education from the University of Sydney. These qualifications have led her to work as a specialised teacher for students with learning difficulties. 

Rosie also volunteers teaching literacy skills to disadvantaged children and adult migrants. She firmly believes that learning to read ignites one’s imagination, fills you with knowledge and opens doors in the real world. Rosie’s debut novel is a middle-grade mystery called Breaking School Rules is Easy. Her upcoming children’s book Maggie Moo The Cow Who Forgot What To Do is a fun story about a friendly and forgetful cow. 

BSRIE follows this philosophy, tapping into an honest pre-adolescent experience, whilst exploring the emotional ups and downs of friendship and identity as a tween. 

Rosie has adult children and lives with her husband, spending her time between Balmain and Clareville, Pittwater. She enjoys pickleball, cold water swimming, outrigging and volunteers as a Crisis Supporter at Lifeline. 

This week a chat with Rosie about her debut book.

History Barangaroo colonial era boat to be preserved for permanent display + the Short Life and Long Voyages of Scotland Island Schooner the Geordy

On Friday May 15 the NSW Government announced Australia’s oldest surviving colonial-era boat, found under layers of tidal sand and mud during excavation for the Barangaroo metro station in 2018, will be going on permanent display at the Australian National Maritime Museum.

Archaeologists traced the 9- metre boat's timber back to eucalypt species found along the Hawkesbury River and in Pittwater. This would come as no surprise to those who are aware much of the early ship-building timber for the new colony was sourced from here.

So many trees had been removed by 1803 that the floods along the Nepean-Hawkesbury floodplain Sydney is still dealing with today, caused the then Governor to order the colonists desist and replant trees. Andrew Thompson of Scotland Island died years before his time due to rescuing others from these floods and becoming ill as a result.

See: Stealing The Bush: Pittwater's Trees Changes - Some History

The boat was built using the “clinker” technique of overlapping timber planks to make up the hull and is believed to have been used to transport goods around Sydney Harbour and the Parramatta River. These boats were also used by 'boatmen' - who used them as taxis to ferry people home across the harbour - and were also used as racing vessels in rowing contests that inspired the earliest regattas. 

The first boat race of which we have any account was an amateur affair on May 16, 1818. It was won by Captain Piper, naval officer:

Men such as the first Lightkeeper at Barrenjoey headland, George Mulhall, was considered the 'first rowing Champion of Australia' in a similar boat and when not winning races to feed his growing family, also hired himself out as a boatman.

See: The Mulhalls Of Broken Bay and Barrenjoey: George Mulhall First Champion Of Australia In Rowing, First Light-Keeper At Barranjuey Headland - Commenced July 20 1868

The boat has been the subject of detailed conservation work and is now in the hands of Australian National Maritime Museum after being delivered in a refrigerated truck container due to its importance and delicate state.

The museum has begun to prepare the boat for permanent exhibition. In the meantime - a little about the Geordy, launched from Scotland Island in November 1810.

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter:

May 1 2026 - includes: Noises Off: Why I like the play, and why I think you will too; Island Café; International Folk Dancing; Noises Off: tickets now on sale; Scotland Island Fire Brigade AGM; Flat for rent


Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Anna's Walk 2026

Manly Warringah Netball Association MWNA Notice: Safety First

As we head into Game weekend, it has been wonderful to see such a big support crew down at the courts cheering on our teams. The atmosphere has been fantastic 💙

Just a little reminder though that we have a huge number of games running across a very busy venue, with limited space around the courts. Please ensure younger siblings are supervised at all times. Last weekend we had a few incidents with small children running into umpires, skating onto courts and balls travelling through active games.

John Fisher Park is an open public space, so children should also be supervised when heading to the canteen, toilets or the park.

For everyone’s safety:

❌ Please leave bikes, skateboards and scooters at home

❌ E-bikes are not permitted within John Fisher Park. If they are being used as transport to and from the courts, they are to be left at the bike racks along Abbott Road and not brought between the courts

❌ Our furry friends are best left at home too

❌ Chairs should be set up at the ends of courts and away from the umpire’s lines.

Thank you everyone for helping us create a safe and enjoyable environment for all players, officials and spectators this weekend. Let Netball be the winner.

Barrenjoey Cup 2026: Bulldogs Vs. Raiders

Two proud local clubs. One massive rivalry built on years of competition, community and mutual respect.

The Barrenjoey Cup is more than just a game. it’s about two clubs pushing each other to be better every single season while continuing to grow rugby league on the Barrenjoey Peninsula. Avalon Bulldogs and Mona Vale Raiders share a genuine respect for the people, players, volunteers and families behind both clubs.

These two clubs site at 1 and 2 on the 2026 Northern Open Age Gold ladder as we go into Round 5 this Sunday.

A huge thank you to Johnson Bros Mitre 10 for getting behind the day and supporting local grassroots sport. Community sponsors like this help create opportunities for players, strengthen local clubs and keep weekends like this thriving for the next generation.

Big crowd. Big energy. Local footy at its best.

The Barrenjoey Cup is here and includes Ladies Day at the Bulldogs, from 1.30 pm on.

THIS SUNDAY, MAY 17, GAME STARTS AT 3pm - HITCHY (Hitchcock Park, Avalon)

Narrabeen Vs. Forestville at Lake Park: May 17

Round 5: These two clubs site at 3 and 4 on the 2026 Northern Open Age Gold ladder as we go into Round 5 this Sunday.

Narrabeen JRLC Life Members Day

Narrabeen Sharks is a club that has an amazing history. The success of the club is due to many things, but the biggest thing that has gotten this club to where it is today is the people who give hours upon hours of their own time to ensure the club runs smoothly. 

On May 31st we will celebrate our life members. So please come down and support Narrabeen Sharks A Grade Vs. Avalon Bulldogs, and thank our life members at the same time. 

Manly Warringah Netball Association: 2026 Mens League

We are now seeking players, coaches and managers interested in representing Manly Warringah Netball Association in the 2026 Mens Metro League season. If you are keen to be part of another exciting season of men’s netball, we would love to hear from you.

Interested members can nominate via the links below 👇

🔗 Players: HERE

🔗 Officials: HERE

Please share with anyone who may be interested in getting involved.

Support Jason's road to recovery

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched for Mona Vale gym owner and Mona Vale Raiders JRLFC legend and former Warriors and Raiders NRL player Jason Death, who is in intensive care after a serious fall in May 2026. 

The fundraiser aims to support his rehabilitation and family.

Ashlee Green, who organised the fundraiser page, states:

A couple of weeks ago, our boss dear friend, Jason Death, had a serious fall, resulting in a fractured skull. 

He’s currently in ICU, facing more surgeries and a long road to recovery. It’s been hard to ask for help, but the generosity of our community has inspired us. Jason and his family are some of the kindest people around, and now it’s our turn to support them. Any donation, big or small, would be greatly appreciated. 

The Deaths have a long road ahead, and we’d love to support them in any way we can. We don’t know his full recovery path yet, but with your help and positive thoughts, we know he’ll get through this. Let’s rally together for Jason!

Support Jason and his family at: www.gofundme.com/support-jasons-road-to-recovery

Congratulations Kirk! 

Pittwater para surfer Kirk Watson has won his division in the The 2026 Hawai'i Adaptive Surfing Championships return to Queen's Surf Break, Waikiki, held  May 5-8.

Kirk said:
''Good to get the win in Hawaii. It was great surfing from Marta Paco, Steve Fox and Thomas De Silva. Thomas did surf better today (last day of competition) but due to an interference missed out on the box of chocolates.''

Kirk Watson and his spotter Blake 'Chooka' Harris won Hawaii in 2024 too. 

Australians Mark 'Mono' Stewart, who founded the Brightsky Adaptive Surfing Championships at Byron Bay, also won his Division, while Annie Goldsmith won a very respective Bronze in hers.

Kirk and Chooka

Saltwater Veterans Drone Support Opportunity

Earlier this month the Saltwater Veterans Sailing Project joined forces with Sailability Pittwater.

Scotty Reynolds said:
'Stoked to launch the first flight of the Saltwater Veterans Sailing Project DJI Air 3S drone.

We took it up in support of Pittwater Sailability, where Sean Wong (as SVSP supporter) continues to lead from the front as an frequent Safety Boat Operator.
One word… fantastic.''

'' This drone was funded through the Australian Government's Stronger Communities Program, in conjunction with the office of Dr Sophie Scamps, MP for Mackellar and, for SVSP, was focused on technologies as a small community registered charity.

The SVSP vision is clear:
  • • Capture and share the impact of the SVSP mission through its sailing programs
  • • Support organic sail coaching and training seasons
  • • Enhance safety, including aerial monitoring for dangerous marine life
If you’re keen to get involved in SVSP drone support, completing the Civil Aviation Safety Authority Remote Pilot Aircraft (RPA) course is the starting point. It’s a free short course and gives you the initial foundations to operate safely and within the rules as part of our charity operations.


Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week

Sasha 

4yo German Shepherd

Sasha is a very sweet girl who came from the pound. Someone has taught her basic commands, sit, shake, drop, paw. She makes good eye contact with a human. Sasha is affectionate and sweet and easy to handle, however she is looking for a home-based worker. She is not a fan of small fluffy dogs. Our dog trainer said: Sasha approached the children in a calm gentle manner. She takes treats gentle but needs a flat hand. She does not jump up. She copes well with young playful kids. Sasha has a medium coat and weighs about 25kg. She would suit a family with house and garden where someone is always home. She is desexed , fully vaccinated, heartworm free and chipped. Her adoption cost is $450. 

Bunny 

2yo Border Collie X Wolfhound 

Bunny is just the sweetest girl. She loves human attention and affection and will even stand on her hind legs for a cuddle! She is very excitable and loves her food. She is very eager to learn and please; however, she does have separation anxiety and is looking for a home-based family. On lead she ignores other dogs and pulls with excitement. She sits on command. Our dog trainer says: A lovely young dog who enjoys both the company of adults and children. She coped with kids play and noise. She is very well behaved and showed a lot of self-control. She did not jump up even when excited. A beautiful dog with kids! She has a lovely scruffy coat that needs brushing and she weighs 22.7kg. She would suit a family with house and garden where someone is always home. She is desexed , fully vaccinated, heartworm free and chipped. Her adoption cost is $450. 

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

Recovery is Prevention:  WRC Community Lunch

The Women's Resilience Centre and Mona Vale Chamber of Commerce are thrilled to announce our keynote speaker for Recovery is Prevention, A Community Lunch is Graeme Cowan.

Graeme is the Founding Director of RUOK, author of five books, host of The Caring CEO podcast, and one of Australia's leading voices on resilience, recovery, and the power of genuine human connection.


Graeme knows first-hand what it means to break down and rebuild. His story and the practical tools he shares are exactly what this event is about.

May is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Across Australia, communities come together to raise awareness of domestic and family violence, to call for justice, and to ensure women and families impacted have the support they need to move forward.

Details:
  • When: Wednesday 28 May. 
  • Where: The Mona, Mona Vale. 
  • Cost: $65 per person, two-course lunch and keynote included. 
Over $3,000 in raffle prizes drawn on the day. Our silent auction is also live now and open to everyone, bid today.

Bid in our silent auction: here

Underwater Photos pre-2000 sought

Dear community
I am part of the Centre for Marine Science and Innovation at UNSW and we are looking at what species have occupied our Sydney reefs over time. 

I was wondering if anyone had any underwater photos or even any photos around our rocky shores pre 2000's. This page has been set up to upload any old diving photos: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/in-bygone-dives alternatively email me anything of interest at jack.vitnell@unsw.edu.au.

I am most interested in if you remember this golden species growing in Avalon, or if you remember swimming with the green fields of algae as a kid (second photo from South Av).
thank you
Jack Vitnell

$1.2 million grant program to support community-led resilience projects

Community organisations are invited to apply for funding under a special round of the Community Partnership Action (COMPACT) Program, which will deliver $1.2 million to projects supporting whole-of-community initiatives.

Not-for-profit organisations in NSW may be eligible for grants of $50,000 to $100,000 per year for partnership projects for up to 2 years.

The COMPACT program has grown to support a state-wide network of community partners and allies, engaged more than 80,000 young people, and has proven to build social cohesion and community resilience.

COMPACT supports partnerships and collaboration between community, non-government, youth, sports, arts/media, educational, industry and other organisations by providing grant funding for innovative, evidence-based community projects.

Successful projects build youth leadership and support networks, facilitate respectful dialogue and engage young people through sports, art, charity and community service. New projects will join the COMPACT Alliance alongside current partners including Courage to Care, Youth off the Streets, Story  Factory and the NRL.  

Eligible organisations are invited to apply for funding before 4pm on Friday 29 May 2026.

An online information session will be held on 14 May 2026 to provide further information on the program and guidance on the application process.


Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said:

“Communities across NSW have shown extraordinary solidarity in the face of recent acts of hate and extremism.

“This round of COMPACT funding will support community-led initiatives that bring people together across cultures and faiths, strengthening trust, connection and resilience across our state.”

Multicultural NSW CEO Joseph La Posta said:

"Over the past decade the COMPACT program has inspired 80,000 young people to stand together against hate and division.

“We’re now inviting organisations to partner with us to continue delivering initiatives that build strong, resilient local networks.”

Women Helping Women SES workshop 2026

What would you do during a storm if your roof started leaking?
We're excited to announce our Women Helping Women workshop 2026 will be on the 14th June 2-4:30pm at Warringah Pittwater NSW SES unit- Gate 3, Thompson Dr, Terrey Hills.

This FREE workshop is designed to support and encourage women to learn practical skills that could one day help protect their homes and family during a storm, flood or tsunami.


NSW SES Warringah / Pittwater Unit

Community News + what ran in each Issue

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

March 2013  April 2013 May 2013  June 2013 July 2013 August 2013 September 2013 October 2013 November 2013  December 2013

January 2014 February 2014  March 2014  April 2014  May 2014 June 2014  July 2014  August 2014  September 2014 October 2014  November 2014  December 2014 

January 2015  February 2015 March 2015  April 2015 May 2015  June 2015  July 2015  August 2015  September 2015  October 2015 November 2015  December 2015 

January 2016  February 2016 March 2016 April 2016 May 2016 June 2016 July 2016  August 2016 September 2016 October 2016  November 2016  December 2016  

January 2017  February 2017  March 2017 April 2017 May 2017 June 2017 July 2017  August 2017 September 2017 October 2017  November 2017  December 2017 

January 2018  February 2018 March 2018  April 2018  May 2018  June 2018  July 2018 August 2018 September 2018 October 2018 November 2018  December 2018

January 2019  February 2019  March 2019  April 2019 May 2019  June 2019  July 2019  August 2019  September 2019  October 2019  November 2019   December 2019 

January 2020 February 2020 March 2020  April 2020 May 2020  June 2020  July 2020  August 2020  September 2020  October 2020  November 2020  December 2020

January 2021  February 2021  March 2021  April 2021  May 2021  June 2021  July 2021  August 2021  September 2021  October 2021  November 2021  December 2021

January 2022  February 2022  March 2022  April 2022  May 2022  June 2022  July 2022 August 2022  September 2022  October 2022  November 2022  December 2022

January 2023  February 2023  March 2023  April 2023  May 2023 June 2023 July 2023  August 2023  September 2023  October 2023 November 2023  December 2023

January 2024  February 2024  March 2024  April 2024  May 2024  June 2024 July 2024  August 2024  September 2024  October 2024  November 2024  December 2024

January 2025  February 2025  March 2025  April 2025  May 2025  June 2025  July 2025  August 2025  September 2025  October 2025  November 2025  December 2025

January 2026  February 2026  March 2026  April 2026  May 2026

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

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. 

There are  2 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. Deborah Hendy(Carter) J.P

Report Hate Crimes

Recent reports to the news service would indicate this reminder is needed at present.

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.

When not on social media and when there is no crime committed, but an action is still motivated by hate, prejudice or bias, it is known as a hate incident. Both hate crimes and hate incidents are taken very seriously by the NSW Police.

When you report hate that you witness or experience, you become part of a larger movement to remove it from our society.

What you can expect from the NSW Police Force:
  • Every report is taken seriously by the NSW Police Force.
  • You can expect a respectful and straightforward experience.
  • A translator will be used if required.
  • When you report to the police, they will request your details. You can choose not to provide these details at the time of reporting however, this will likely affect how police can proceed with an investigation.
  • Support services or contact with an appropriate liaison officer will be offered.
  • You will be kept informed of what happens next, your rights and the criminal process (if someone was able to be charged).
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.  
For more information, visit  www.police.nsw.gov.au/crime/hate_crimes

Speed humps on McCarrs Creek Rd: 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  This 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.  Simply enter:
  1. The position via GPS or road and suburb
  2. The date
  3. The animal

Vale Kerry Traynor

Vale Anthony Hardwick

It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of Tony Hardwick (Wicka), the original owner of Wicks Surf at Collaroy but more importantly an amazing human. 

He was a mentor, a great boss, a huge part of the community and a friend to many. Anthony "Wicka" Hardwick, was also a member of the legendary 1972 Australian National Team to the ISA World Championships in San Diego, along with being known up and down the NSW coast as a kind, genuine and fair dinkum bloke.

Rest in peace Wick. You will be so missed. 

The community expresses its sincere condolences to his wife Terri and the whole family.

Wicka one of my surf instructors as a grom and then as a junior coach a work mate. So welcoming and full of knowledge RIP Wick - Pamela Burridge

Commiserations and condolences to his Family. Wicked was such a North Narrabeen Legend. He actually won an event at Dbah that Sid Aspinal and Gordon Phillipson organised attracting some of the best surfers at that time in 1971.RIP Wicka. - Andrew Mckinnon

Service and Paddle Out details below.

These words from his son Dan on May 9:

Hardest news I’ve ever had to share, but last night my dad passed away. My Dop. Until I met my wife, my father was truly the love of my life. Growing up, any of my mates will tell you he was my hero. I left school and went to work alongside him, and those years are some of the best I’ve ever known—filled with laughter, hard work, and a bond I will never be able to fully put into words. We must have shared more than 100 surf trips together, and every single one became a better memory.

He loved my mum with everything he had for 52 years of marriage. Mumma held dad’s hand while myself and my 5 siblings linked arms as Doppy took his last breath.  To witness this love was something I will treasure for eternity … but never want to have to go through again.

It's hard to fathom life without him, it’s heavy, But I also know we are all mortal, and there comes a time to say goodbye—for now.
Coming from a family of faith, my dad followed Jesus to his last breath. And in that, we have peace. We believe he is now with his Heavenly Father, whole and at rest.

My faith has been deeply strengthened through seeing him pass. Without faith, there is nothing to look forward to—but in Jesus, there is hope. I believe His promise that because of what He has done, I too will one day be reunited with him in heaven when my time comes.

So this isn’t just goodbye Dop Dop 
It’s goodbye for now.


Digital Wellbeing Event

Join us at Avalon Public school hall on Friday 19 June, 9:45–10:30am for an engaging parent session exploring digital wellbeing and the realities of growing up with constant connectivity.

Hear from specialist speakers as they unpack how smartphones, devices and social media are shaping children’s lives today. A clinical psychologist will share practical, research-informed insights into how screen use impacts young minds and what this means for families.

You’ll also learn about Wait Mate, a growing initiative supporting families to delay smartphone use and rethink the role of technology in childhood—giving children more time to play, connect and simply be kids.

This is a valuable opportunity for parents and carers to come together, build understanding and consider simple, collective actions that support healthier digital habits for our children.

Free. Spaces are limited. 

Seas the Day 2026

For the fourth year running Seas The Day, the Women's Surf Festival, returns to the beautiful Kingscliff Beach, NSW, on Saturday and Sunday the 20th & 21st of June.

Seas the Day 2026 promises to be a vibrant, empowering, and uplifting experience for women of all abilities.

The festival space will be buzzing with entertainment and dynamic HUBS, where keynote speakers dive into everything from the ins and outs of successful careers, training regimes, film and photography, mental well-being, and much more.

Surf competition entries are now OPEN! Last year was the first Para Surfer Division. It was such a fun weekend, so grab a couple friends and enter your team.


NSW Nurses celebrated for their commitment to communities

Tuesday May 12 2026
This International Nurses Day, nurses across NSW are being recognised for the kind, compassionate and high-quality care they provide to their communities every day.

Nurses make up the single largest workforce group in NSW Health, with over 74,000 working across NSW. They play a vital clinical role across the full spectrum of inpatient, outpatient and community settings and are there 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, providing care for the people of NSW.

This year's International Nurses Day theme: Empowered Nurses Save Lives, reflects the extraordinary work nurses are doing in improving health outcomes and addressing global health challenges.

The NSW Government states it has made significant investments in our nursing workforce to ensure they are empowered to continue delivering exceptional care to patients and their families when they need it most. This includes:
  • Rolling out Safe Staffing Levels in identified key areas across NSW public hospitals, with a commitment of 2,480 full time equivalent staff over four years;
  • Abolishing the wages cap;
  • Delivering the largest pay increase for nurses in more than two decades and the largest pay rise ever for the lowest paid nurses in NSW;
  • Saving the 1,112 nurses the Liberals planned to sack
  • Boosting the nursing workforce by more than 5,000 full time equivalent staff in our hospitals;
  • Supporting our future health workforce with study subsidies ;
  • Helping attract and retain the essential workers NSW needs.
This year, the contributions of nurses and midwives are being further recognised through the 2026 Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards.

If you know a nurse or midwife who provided extraordinary and compassionate care, nominate them for the Healing Heart Award.

Nominations for the Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards are open until 12 June. People can nominate on the NSW Health website.  

Minister for Health Ryan Park said:

“International Nurses Day is an important opportunity to recognise the exceptional contribution nurses make across the state. Their professionalism, clinical expertise, and compassion support people every day, in every part of NSW.

“Their work extends far beyond our hospitals, into research and clinical laboratories, education institutions, virtual support, and throughout our communities.

“Their dedication strengthens the health and wellbeing of the NSW community, and we thank them for the compassion, skill, and commitment they bring to their work every day."

NSW Health's Chief Nurse Jacqui Cross stated:

“International Nurses Day gives us a day when we can really focus on the contribution we have all made, and acknowledge that contribution as an individual, as a team, and in the services we support. It also gives other people an opportunity to recognise and talk about the impact nurses have had in their lives and healthcare journeys.

“As the Chief Nurse for NSW Health, I am immensely proud of the outstanding work nurses do each and every day. As a nurse myself I know the depth and value of the contribution that you make, and I believe it's such a wonderful profession that genuinely makes a difference. Happy International Nurses Day."

Marine Rescue Cottage Point: Return + Earn

Great news! You can now use your recycling efforts to donate to Marine Rescue Cottage Point!! 
Donate Your Return and Earn Refund – It’s Easy! 
Support Marine Rescue Cottage Point every time you return your bottles and cans.

Option 1: Use the Barcode
  • Save the barcode to your phone (photos or files)
  • Scan it at the Return and Earn machine before you start
  • Your full refund from that session will be donated to our campaign
Option 2: Donate via the Return and Earn App
  • Download and log in to the Return and Earn app
  • Go to Charities → Browse charities
  • Search for Marine Rescue Cottage Point
  • Select Set as payout
  • Scan your app barcode at the machine or depot before returning containers
Option 3: Donate at the Machine
  • Return your eligible containers
  • When finished, select Donate on the screen
  • Choose Marine Rescue Cottage Point and confirm
  • Every container helps keep our volunteers on the water!!
  • Thank you for supporting us to support you on the water!

MR CP 30 - the Chris Gillett

Over 3 Decades at APS: Celebration of Mrs Weber on her retirement

Lisa Weber is retiring from Avalon Public School after 32 years as classroom teacher, and Deputy Principal.

Family and friends are celebrating her long lasting impact and incredible career with a retirement party at Avalon Surf Club, and are opening the invitation up to past and present APS families to pop in and celebrate with us. 

Details are:

Avalon's Dr John Eccles to Retire

Residents of Avalon Beach and surrounds may wish to pop a Thank You card in to the Avalon Family Practice in Avalon Parade this week as long-term GP John Eccles is set to retire after looking after residents for decades.


Practicing as a GP in Avalon for over 40 years, Dr, Eccles has also held Sydney Children's Hospital positions for over 25 years, and VMO at Bear Cottage, Manly. Special interests include Paediatrics, and all aspects of General Practice. 

Dr. Eccles attended Reading School, M.B. Ch.B. Manchester Uni. 1962 – 1969, gained a Dip. Obstets at the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists in January 1976 and a Master of Paediatrics at the UNSW in 1990. 

He commenced at 50 Avalon Parade Avalon Beach in June 1979.
Dr Eccles is retiring, effective 19 May 2026.

Thank you for your decades of service to our community Dr. Eccles - your kindness, love of children and time for those of us now with grey hair, along with decades of telling people to 'stop smoking' etc. will be remembered. 

We hope you enjoy your 'time off'.

Warriewood SLSC's Biggest Morning Tea 

We’re excited to invite our wonderful Warriewood community to come together for Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea — a chance to share a cuppa, connect, and support those impacted by cancer.

Where: Warriewood SLSC Members Area
Date: Sunday 21 June 2026
Time: 10am – 11.30am
Host: Cathy Milliken
Entry: $10 (cash/card)
Bring: Your own cup or mug
Provided: Tea, coffee, juice + delicious food to share
RSVP by: Friday 19 June via email: millikencathy@gmail.com

Donations, raffle prizes and shared food are warmly welcomed.
Let’s come together for a beautiful morning in support of the Cancer Council. 💛✨


Applications open for grants to improve the lives of people with disability

On Friday May 8 the Australian Government launched an open competitive grant funding opportunity for organisations supporting people with disability, their families and carers.

The Disability Peer Support and Connections Program is the next phase of disability supports, building upon recent reforms to the Information, Linkages and Capacity Building (ILC) Program.

Funded organisations will share in up to $517 million over 5 years, to deliver programs that boost independence and empower people with disability to make their own decisions and speak up for themselves.

Organisations will also be funded to provide trusted high-quality information and advice so people with disability know where to turn for support and available services.

This will help to improve consistency, quality and national coverage of supports for people with disability, their families and carers, as recommended by the Independent Review into the National Disability Insurance Scheme and consultations on foundational supports.

The Government will continue working with States and Territories to ensure the new program's success.

Full details, including eligibility and application guidelines can be found on GrantConnect and the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing website.

Applications close July 2 2026
Total Amount Available (AUD): $517,000,000.00

For more information on the phased transition of reforms to the ILC Program please visit the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing website.

Stop Vertical Seawalls: Petition

From: Surfrider Foundation NB
To save our beaches for future generations we need a moratorium on concrete vertical walls and a funding commitment to sand nourishment.

If you love your beach, please sign the petition.
Our ocean, waves and beaches thank.
Protecting our beaches since 1991.


NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards 2026 Nominations now Open

The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, hosted by The Centre for Volunteering, are an annual celebration of volunteering in NSW. 

There are 7 categories for the Awards. These include:
  • Young Volunteer of the Year 24 years and under
  • Adult Volunteer of the Year 25 to 64 years
  • Senior Volunteer of the Year 65 years and over
  • Volunteer Team of the Year Two individuals or over
  • Emergency Volunteer of the Year An individual or teams volunteering in emergency prevention, preparation, response, or recovery efforts.
  • Volunteer Leader of the Year A designated volunteer manager, a team of volunteer managers or a registered not-for-profit organisation
  • Not-for-Profit Voluntary Governance Award An unpaid board of directors or individual board member, who exemplifies excellence in governance
The nomination form allows for two types of recognition for the volunteers of NSW. 

Nomination for Recognition  
This is the simplest way to acknowledge volunteers.  These nominations will not be judged; however, the nominee will be invited to their local regional ceremony (if their personal email address is provided, not the organisation’s or nominator’s email address).  The nominee will be presented with a certificate to acknowledge their contribution to the community.  This nomination requires you to complete four parts of the nomination form only. 

Nomination for Judging 
These nominees will be judged for the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards in their appropriate category.  This nomination requires nominators to complete six parts (parts 1 to 6), all of which must be completed to be accepted by the judging committee. To be included in Judging, the nominee’s personal email address MUST be provided (ie. not the organisation’s or nominator’s email address). If this is not provided, the nomination will be moved into the Recognition section of the Awards.

Nominations are open until Friday 29 May 2026.

8-Storey SSD lodged for 35-39 Darley Street 

The proposal includes the demolition of all existing structures and the construction of an eight (8) storey residential flat building containing 53 apartments (mix of 2, 3 and 4 bedroom units) over three (3) levels of basement parking containing 131 parking spaces (including 19 visitor spaces).

The document available at present states parking spaces will be allocated as:

affordable housing:
2 bed = 5 dwellings (2.5 spaces required)
3 bed = 4 dwellings (4 spaces required)

non-affordable housing:
2 bed = 19 dwellings (19 spaces required)
3 bed = 22 dwellings (33 spaces required)
4 bed = 3 dwellings  (4.5 spaces required)

The site is within the flood planning area and subject to
flood related development controls.

All units on Level 1, in the flood zone, are to be dedicated for the purpose of infill affordable housing, equating to nine (9) units and 1,191.2m2 (15.5%) of the total GFA proposed on the site.

The scheme proposes to retain a few trees on site, provide deep soils planting within the building setbacks and above ground landscaping. Communal open space is to be provided at ground floor level with an area of 687m2 equating to 25.6% of the site. 

The proponents state the overall massing is reduced through a podium and tower arrangement, with the top four levels set back from the side boundaries in accordance with the Apartment Design Guide (ADG). Along the eastern elevation, extensive glazing and integrated landscaping help soften the building’s visual presence when viewed from the street.

Residents and members of SOS Mona Vale state; 

''The proposal represents a significant departure from the established character of the Mona Vale basin. By seeking State Significant Development (SSD) status, this project bypasses local council height and density restrictions, posing a direct threat to the scale and infrastructure of our community. The inclusion of a few "Affordable housing" units gives the project access to additional height.''

''Our opposition is not to development itself, but to unsustainable density that ignores local constraints. Another example of the 'Luxury Loophole'—where minimum affordable housing provisions are utilised to achieve a scale that would otherwise be rejected.''

Key Concerns around this development include:
  • Infrastructure Strain: The Warriewood Sewage Treatment Plant is already at capacity; adding high-density loads to this site is a failure of planning foresight.
  • Traffic & Safety: Darley Street East is the main access road to the beach and struggles with local flow at any time. This SSD adds hundreds of daily vehicle movements to a bottleneck.
  • Heritage & Character: The proposed height destroys the visual "village" feel that defines Mona Vale.
This SSD has just been registered - no EIS is yet lodged - nor is it open as yet for feedback. More details to follow as they become available. 

View the Official Planning Portal Entry to the government's project page for 35-39 Darley Street East.

Avalon water mains renewal construction

This week, we:
  • re-established our temporary compound in the grassy area opposite 61 Barrenjoey Road. We appreciate your patience as we occupy two parking spaces on Old Barrenjoey Road so that we can safely move machinery and equipment in and out of the compound.
  • re-established our work area within Sydney Water’s Ingleside reservoir site. 
We expect to restart our night work on Old Barrenjoey Road from Monday 4 May. Our planned work involves continuing to install the water main at the intersection of Avalon Parade and Old Barrenjoey Road.
 
Weather permitting, next week we plan to:
  • work during the night to continue laying the last sections of water main at the intersection of Old Barrenjoey Road and Avalon Parade. This stage of work will take about three to four months to complete, weather and ground conditions permitting.
  • work during the night to repair some potholes along Old Barrenjoey Road within our work area.
  • set up a laydown area close to our work site near Avalon Parade, in front of Chemist Warehouse. We’ll take some parking spaces while this area is in use. 
Our night work hours are 8 pm to 5 am, Monday nights to Friday mornings. We may have traffic control, deliveries and the movement of materials during the day from time to time.
 
You may hear noise from our machinery during our night shifts. We will finish our noisiest work such as saw cutting and jack hammering by midnight, however other excavations, backfilling and using a vacuum (sucker) truck may continue until 5 am. You may also notice us at the temporary site compound in the grassy area opposite 61 Old Barrenjoey Road, however we’ll use our laydown area on Avalon Parade to minimise tracking machinery up the road. Traffic changes will be in place during our night shifts. Please follow our signs and the direction of traffic controllers. We’ll always maintain access for residents, garbage trucks and emergency vehicles.
 
Please talk to us if you would like to know more about this work – you can contact our community engagement team on 1800 943 119 or via return email. For Sydney Water repairs or faults, please call 13 20 90 (24 hours).

Thank you for your patience and understanding during this essential work.

Community Participation Plan: Feedback open

The NSW State Government has produced a draft Community Participation Plan which mandates that planning authorities (councils and agencies) provide formal opportunities for public consultation on planning matters. The stated aim is to increase transparency and public engagement in the planning process. 
However some aspects of this CPP will bring into effect the opposite. For example - under FAQ's -:

Why have public exhibition requirements been removed for some development types?  
  • These changes are about protecting and promoting participation on the planning issues that matter most and removing consultation that is duplicative or unnecessary.
  • The draft Community Participation Plan proposes to extend exhibition for strategic plans, to ensure stakeholders can fully engage with how their communities will change over time.  
  • DA consultation requirements will also be standardised across the state, with a list of lower-impact development types identified where no public exhibition is required where the development is consistent with the planning controls.  
For Complying Developments neighbours need to be notified 7 days before work commences but the plans are normally exempt from public exhibition. 

Are any changes proposed for notification of Complying Development Certificates?  
  • To provide consistency across NSW, an update to the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2021 is proposed to mandate a 7-day notification before works commence for new buildings, additions and demolitions undertaken as complying development in all local government areas. This update would remove the current 14-day written notice requirement which currently applies across NSW.  
Key provisions include:
  • Minimum 28-day public exhibition of strategic plans such as LEPs and DCPs and 14 days for Development Applications unless a council plan specifies otherwise
  • Notification to adjoining landowners
  • Online publication of documents via the NSW Planning Portal
  • Consideration of community views in decision-making
State Significant Developments will still have a 14 days only consultation period, so residents and residents associations will still need to visit the NSW Planning Portal 'on exhibition' lists and share information on SSD's ASAP. This portal does allow you to choose the LGA and timeframes. 

Decision-makers are required to publish the reasons for a particular decision and must include a statement showing how community submissions were taken into account. 

The Plan appears to set a minimum standard and would allow individual councils to allow more community involvement. 

NB council had prepared a Community Participation Plan which they put aside when the State Government announced that there would be a state-wide Plan. 

Additional questions can be directed to the project team at CPP@dphi.nsw.gov.au

You can read the documents made available and make a submission on the Have Your Say webpage for this.

Submissions close on 3 June 2026

Have your say on Health Star Ratings

Australians are being invited to have their say on Health Star Ratings as Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) opens its first formal call for submissions.

The consultation comes after Food Ministers agreed to progress work towards mandating Health Star Ratings on packaged foods across Australia and New Zealand. 

Under proposed changes, most packaged foods sold in shops will need to carry a rating, giving consumers clear, easy to understand nutritional information at a glance, helping them to make healthier choices for themselves and their families. 

Mandatory Health Star Rating labelling would enhance consumer choice and create a level playing field for food producers, providing clarity and consistency across the market.

The Health Star Rating system is currently voluntary, with only 39 per cent of foods in Australia and 36 per cent in New Zealand displaying a rating.

Seven in 10 consumers use the rating system at least sometimes when shopping, and most agree it makes it easier to identify healthier products.

Consumers, health groups, industry, government and other interested stakeholders are invited to provide feedback to FSANZ up until 21 June, with information on its website. 

The Hon Rebecca White MP, Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, stated:

“The Albanese Government is committed to making it easier for people to choose healthier food for themselves and their families. 

“Right now, not every product carries a Health Star Rating, which can make it harder for people to make informed choices when they’re standing in the supermarket aisle.

“Putting simple, clear information on the front of packaging, will ensure all shoppers can quickly and easily make healthier choices for themselves and their family.”  

 

Click on logo above to visit their website.

Pittwater Community Groups: 


Sports (plus Social Members)

Gardens and Environment

Rural Fire Brigades
Services - Community Organisations

Arts and Social

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


Letters to the Editor

Letters should preferably be 150 to 175 words, but that remains optional. Letters must include the writer's address and phone number and 'permission to publish'.  The editor's prerogative includes editing letters for length, grammar or legal reasons. 
Send yours via email to: pittwateronlinenews@live.com.au