February 1 - 28, 2026: Issue 651

Front Page Issue 651

Week Three February 2026: Issue 651 (published Sunday February 15 2026)

Pictures Pittwater Regatta 2026: 86 boats, 13 yacht clubs sail on Pittwater - reports by Di Pearson, Photos by Andrea Francolini and RPAYC

Victory for the Australian Lifesaving Surf Boat Team in 2026 Trans Tasman - NSW Win 2026 Interstate Comp. As Well

Narrabeen Athletics Track works underway - new study suggests track materials should be chosen carefully

Project Restore at Balmoral: Modern Moorings May Protect Sydney’s Endangered Seagrass

Illegal e-bikes will be seized-crushed in NSW: e-bike Injury Presentations to NSW Hospitals doubles + That e-bike you bought your teen might be an illegal electric motorbike – and the risks are real

Wakehurst MPs Bushfire Bill Lapse Date extended: Concerns persist Over DA's in High-Risk Fire Zones

Community Grants Funding Delivers Support for 5 Local Veterans Projects in 2026

Park Bench Philosophers The ultra-processed foods problem is driven by commercial interests, not individual weakness; Mandatory Health Star Ratings on food products won't fix that while they can be 'Gamed'

Australian MP's-Senators Call Government to Fix Our Feeds - Safer Internet Day 2026

Aquatics Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race: First in best dressed! by Di Pearson

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Week Two February 2026: Issue 651 (published Sunday February 8 2026)

Profile of the Week: SOS (Save Our Suburb) Mona Vale: New Residents Group Launched - next meeting Feb. 26

History: Careel Head Road Shops and the Bangalley- Burrowong Creeks: Some History  

New Analysis Shows Mackellar MP Dr. Sophie Scamps Tops Time Spent Doing Her Job

Two Narrabeen Sports High School Teachers, One Curl Curl PS Teacher Honoured for 50+ Years of Public Education

Aquatics: Milla Coco Brown - Lucas Hickson Win 2026 Kim Burton Pro Junior 

ARTEXPRESS is back! and Out Front 2026 celebrates the next generation artists - HSC Artists

NSW Women of the Year 2026 finalists announced: Several Locals named

Zali Steggall Calls For Royal Commission into Domestic Violence: 6 Women lost in 2026, so far  

Marine Rescue NSW volunteers respond to almost 700 incidents in January 2026

Pictures: Dolphin Park Bushland Reserve: a stroll through this Right-of-way Park between Dolphin Crescent and Barrenjoey Road

North Sydney Council Refutes State Government Claims of Consultation on Future of Cammeray Golf Course

PBP's: eSafety report shows while tech giants have made some progress they still have a long way to go in stamping out online child abuse + Big tech companies are still failing to tackle child abuse material online

DIY Ideas: A Job For Life: Apprentice Carpenter + Fee-Free Courses + Commencement Tool List + How to Look After Your Tools

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Week One February 2026: Issue 651 (published Sunday February 1 2026)

Profile of the Week: A community legacy: Art Auction of works from the Home of Susan Duncan & Bob Story to Support West Pittwater RFS - Open now, closing Monday 9 March at midnight - Live auction: Saturday 7 March, Elvina Reserve, 3.30pm - Approximately 20 works will be concluded live

History: On International Holocaust Remembrance Day 2026 we Remember those Lost and the work of Sister Muriel Knox Doherty, Of Avalon Beach, at the Bergen- Belsen Camp

Vale Mike Fletcher AM -  9.10.33 - 30.1.26

The fauna bridge on Mona Vale Road East – will it be a bridge to nowhere?

Pittwater MP Launches Survey Asking For Local Knowledge on Sharks: State Government Announces Further $4.2 million to Improve Shark Safety this Summer + How to reduce the risk of an encounter with a shark

Aquatics: Synthetic grass fragments are increasingly prevalent microplastics in waterways across Metropolitan Sydney: Report finds Microplastics Have tripled in Sydney's waterways in three years - Manly Cove's 'very high' reading -NSW microplastics report 2026 

NSW Government announces New Northern Beaches Hospital 'High Volume Surgery Hub' to power through waitlist: Pittwater MP Confirms Locals Will Have Priority

Summer BirdFest 2026: Play antics of New Locals - Blue-faced Honeyeaters Breeding In Pittwater

Australian Sailing Team Appoints Pittwater's Jim Colley as 49erFX National Coach

Pantaenius Pittwater Regatta 2026: titans versus raiders by Di Pearson - held from 13 to 15 February, Entry closes at 1700 hours on 2 February. Late entries may be accepted at an additional fee.

Autism Swim’s Dippers program launches at Queenscliff: Inclusive Beach & Ocean Safety - Free, starts Feb, 2026

Manly Writer's Festival Announces 2026 Program: Exploring Ideas, Storytelling and Civic Debate - Thomas Keneally AO to open four-day festival, 19–22 March 2026, Tickets now open

Community Concern As Another Tree Up for Destruction by the Council - Doubling of prior Bassett Street Mona Vale DA proposal under NSW government SSD's provides stark illustration of impact on local environment of laws written 'for developers' (Feedback closes Feb 2, 2026) - Community Objections Being silenced or Ignored - Dec, 2025 Address to Council by Secretary of Protect Pittwater

Pictures: From Red Dust to Blue Water: Bush to Beach Celebrates 21 Years of Changing Young Indigenous Lives

Park Bench Philosophers: The V-set train on platform two has terminated after 55 years’ service

Profile of the Week Zonta Northern Beaches Club’s President Dr. Lorna Scott: On the IWD Breakfast + 2026 Works

NSW Women’s Week 2026 runs from Monday 2 March to Sunday 8 March, and will see a dynamic series of events, focusing on inclusivity and celebrating the achievements of women across NSW.

Although some of the tropes imposed on women persist in Australian society, as can be seen in the circus foisted on one  Australian lady Leader in recent days, cooler heads have prevailed than the exhausted patience prompted in those growing up with lots of brothers and no sisters, and set another example.

This example has been garnered from other women, many of them members of the Zonta Club of the Northern Beaches, who have actioned numerous initiatives for over five decades to quietly create change.

The next event on their 2026 calendar is their March 4th International Womens Day Breakfast at the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club at Newport, where Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby will announce who the Pittwater Woman of the Year is.

Tickets here: zonta-club-n-b-international-women-s-day-breakfast

Zonta NB’s 2026 Breakfast Speaker is Shae Ingram, a Class of 2018 graduate of Mater Maria at Warriewood who has gone on to become a Senior Program Engineer working in the Satellite and Space Systems team at Optus. 

Ms Ingram is very passionate about advocating for women in STEM, promoting careers in Space, and participating in outreach programs as a Space Ambassador at Optus, where she spends her time educating young people about space, sharing her career pathway, and creating visibility around what an engineer can look like.

‘’From studying Aeronautical Engineering to working at Optus Satellite and Space Systems, representation and visibility of women in engineering is so important to foster a more diverse workforce, particularly for students who are considering future STEM careers.’’ Shae says

The Speaker is very timely given former South Curl Curl girl  Katherine Bennell-Pegg was announced as the 2026 Australian of the Year, and fits with Zonta's own program of getting women 'off the ground'. Former Narrabeen and Mona Vale pilot Nancy Ellis, was, in 1953, the only Australian member of the Ninety-Nines and the winner of their Silver Jubilee Scholarship in the United States of America in 1954. The Ninety-Nines, founded by Amelia Earhart in 1929, is the International Organisation of Women Pilots that provides networking, mentoring, and flight scholarship opportunities to recreational and professional female pilots. 

Zonta's own  Amelia Earhart Fellowship was established in 1938 in honour of famed pilot and Zontian, Amelia Earhart. The US$10,000 Fellowship is awarded annually to up to 30 women pursuing Ph.D./doctoral degrees in aerospace engineering and space sciences. It may be used at any university or college offering accredited post-graduate courses and degrees in these fields.

This week a chat with current Zonta Northern Beaches Club President, Dr. Lorna Scott on that and what else is coming up this year.

History Bayview + Mona Vale + Brookvale Bricks: Makers Mark Every run of 10 Thousand

Bricks with makers marks were gifted to us decades ago by Charles Benko. Charles stated he got these ones from Brookvale Bricks, when they were still around.

He explained the markings on these bricks, which are marked with a pipe in one case, and two thumbprints to make a heart or harp in the other, is made when the maker had completed  run of 10 thousand of them. They would place a personal insignia in that 10 thousandth one made to mark the end of a run.

Charles who lived at the back of Manly near Condamine street, and was a Hungarian who spoke of Auschwitz – his wife was French (Suzanne ?), came to Australia after World War Two. He passed away aged 99 years back now, but his gift of old Brookvale bricks, and stories of our area in the late 1940's and early 1950's, prompted a look into brick making in our area.

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter:

February 1 2026


Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Johnson Brothers Store at Mona Vale is Store of the Year

Johnson Bros Mitre 10 Mona Vale has officially been named the '2025 National Large Format Store of the Year.'

The Johnson Brothers said: ''Honestly, we’re still pinching ourselves.

This one belongs to our incredible team who show up every day with genuine care for every customer who walks through the doors.

And to our amazing community for shopping local, for backing us, for the chats at the counter, and for being part of the journey.
We share this win with all of you.''


Apprentice Day 2026 at Johnson Bros Mitre 10 Mona Vale will be held on Thursday February 19 this year, kicking off with a free Tradie Breakfast at the Mona Vale store and great custom deals.

Apprentice Week runs 9-15 February in 2026. Celebrating Australian Apprenticeships' role in building careers and growing the nation's skilled workforce, the theme this year is "It's in the making".

Across one week each February, employers, apprentices, schools, training providers, and government come together to:
  • Recognise the contribution of apprentices and trainees
  • Showcase apprenticeships as a respected and rewarding career pathway
  • Highlight the role employers play in shaping the workforce of tomorrow
More details about NSW Apprenticeship week on the National Apprentice Week website and current supports through TAFE and the NSW Government can be found in the current JBH DIY page:

Zonta Club's 2026 International Women’s Day Breakfast

Wednesday 4th March is the date for our IWD Breakfast, more details are now provided. 
Firstly, and unique to our event, the 'PITTWATER WOMEN OF THE YEAR'  will be announced, and the presentation of this award will be made by Jacqui Scruby, Member for Pittwater. 

Next, to our wonderful Guest Speaker, SHAE INGRAM, Senior Program Engineer in the Satellite and Space team at Optus. 
Come and join us for Breakfast as SHAE shares her incredible achievements to date, and her passion for advocating for Women in STEM,  promoting careers in Space, and participating in outreach programs as a Space Ambassador at Optus, where she spends time educating young people about space, sharing her career pathway, and creating visibility around what an engineer can look like.

Surf Life Saving NSW elects Female President

Saturday February 14 2026
SLS NSW has warmly welcomed the election of the first female President of SLSNSW in their 118-year history, Elissa Hancock.

SLS NSW states:
Elissa brings significant experience to our growing organisation – most recently through her current role as Sydney Branch President and a Patrol Captain and Patron of Era SLSC.

Having amassed nearly four decades of experience across a range of Surf Life Saving areas, Elissa is a champion for youth and an advocate for evolution across the movement. She steps into the role vacated by Peter Agnew AM who was elected to the position of President of Surf Life Saving Australia in November last year.

Congratulations, Elissa, on your successful election. We look forward to working together to continue saving lives and supporting our incredible surf lifesaving community across the state.

Elissa Hancock. Photo: SLS NSW

Drone Surveillance at Bungan

A SLSNSW drone was deployed to Bungan beach on Thursday February 12 after reports of a shark in the water and a dolphin washing up on shore. The drone spotted three bull sharks and the beach was quickly closed. 

Bungan beach remained closed until at least the end of the day, and SLSNSW continue urging the public to take care around the water.

More in: Pittwater MP Launches Survey Asking For Local Knowledge on Sharks: State Government Announces Further $4.2 million to Improve Shark Safety this Summer + How to reduce the risk of an encounter with a shark


Unlicensed X-ray Operators Targeted by NSW EPA

On Tuesday February 10 the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) sounded a warning to unlicensed X-ray operators after a radiographer and a medical diagnostic imaging company were fined for using a portable X-ray device on thousands of elderly patients across Sydney without a licence. 

The NSW EPA successfully prosecuted Mobile X-ray Services Pty Ltd and radiographer Dean Brockdorff for using radiation material without a radiation user licence, with the Local Court of NSW ordering the company and its employee to pay more than $93,000 in fines and penalties.

From June 2020 to August 2023, Mr Brockdorff conducted more than 3,000 X-rays without a licence, including hundreds of scans at aged care facilities in Castle Hill, Maroubra, Blacktown, Randwick, Marayong, Woollahra and Kellyville. 

NSW EPA Chief Executive Tony Chappel said all X-ray operators need to understand their compliance obligations under the Protection from Harmful Radiation Act 1990 or risk facing the consequences.

“In this case thankfully no one was hurt, but this prosecution sends a strong signal to businesses using X-rays that they must maintain stringent oversight of staff licensing and qualifications,” Mr Chappel said.

“Just like a driver’s licence, a radiation user licence must be renewed regularly, giving consumers confidence that a radiographer has met the highest standards of training.

“Offences under NSW’s radiation laws are treated very seriously due to the risk of harm, and court-ordered penalties may include imprisonment in the most extreme circumstances.”

Previously, in November 2025, in a separate case, Mr Brockdorff was convicted on 14 charges and ordered to pay $10,000 in fines and $16,487 in legal costs in a case brought to court by the NSW EPA.

On Friday, 6 February, Mobile X-ray Services was found guilty of 15 charges in the Local Court of New South Wales, and given a penalty of $42,300, with the company ordered to pay $24,500 of the EPA’s legal costs.

For more information about radiation licences, go to: Radiation user licence | EPA

Saltwater Veterans: Helping Hands Needed

Saltwater Veterans are at the stage where we really need more volunteer buy-in and community support for our ACNC registered charity.

As a starting point, we’ve broken some of the larger jobs into smaller time commitments that can be easily shared across a small team, with a number of opportunities that can even be supported remotely.

Small amounts of autonomous volunteering (from as little as 1 hour/month) would be massively appreciated and will start to build redundancy into our Saltwater Veterans Sailing Project.

We absolutely love how people step up and help on event days — and we’re now seeing Salties confidently running up Revs events, which is awesome. What we really need next is shore-side support — particularly with maintenance and administration. 

We are growing and as we grow we need more hands to help.
If you can lend a hand, please register your EOI here.

Barrenjoey High School P&C Welcome event: Feb. 19

Narrabeen Sports High School 2026 Open Night

Come and join us for our 2026 Open Night on Tuesday 3 March, from 4:00pm to 6:00pm. 

This event is open to all prospective students and parents and is a wonderful opportunity to experience our school community first-hand.

On the evening you will:
  • - Meet our dedicated teachers and staff
  • - Enjoy guided tours of our school facilities
  • - Explore faculty Teaching and Learning displays
  • - Hear the Principal’s Address at 4:00pm
  • - Enjoy student music performances
  • - Learn more about our Sports Academy Program
We look forward to seeing you there!

Feedback on Middle Harbour flood study findings Invited

The council is asking residents of Belrose, Davidson, Frenchs Forest, Forestville, and Killarney Heights to find out about flood risk in the area and share their views on the draft Middle Harbour Flood Study. This new Study uses the latest technology and data to better understand local flood risks and improve emergency planning.

The draft Study replaces the 2010 Frenchs Creek Flood Study, showing fewer flood-affected properties in this area due to modelling with improved technology and more up-to-date rainfall data. However, by looking at a significantly wider area not previously investigated for flooding, it identifies more properties at risk overall. The Study provides information on flood levels, depths, and hazards, includes feedback from recent floods and considers climate change impacts.

Mayor Sue Heins said the release of the draft Study marks a significant step forward for the community.

“This draft Flood Study is a major step in making our neighbourhoods safer and better prepared for future floods.

“We’ve listened to the experts, community members, used the latest technology and now we want to share that with you and hear back from you.

Flooding can seriously affect homes and infrastructure. 

The council states the updated Study will guide future development, help emergency planning, and build a safer community.

During the exhibition period, property owners within the study area will receive a letter if their property has been identified as being flood affected. This letter will outline how they can find out more about the study and its findings and how to make a submission. Residents will be able to book in for face-to-face meetings with council flood officers and a consultant, receive updates through council e-newsletters and give feedback on the council’s Your Say webpage for this work.

The next stage of the process will be to undertake the flood risk management study and plan, which will investigate potential options to reduce and manage flood risk in the area.

The draft Study is available to view on the council’s Middle Harbour Flood Study (draft) webpage and submissions are now open and will close March 9.

The draft Study has been prepared with financial assistance from the NSW and Commonwealth Governments through the Natural Disaster Resilience Program.

More Inspectors to tackle illegal tobacco

On Tuesday February 10 2026 the NSW Government announced thirty additional full-time equivalent tobacco inspectors will be recruited to boost the NSW Health’s newly established Centre for Regulation & Enforcement with additional funding from the Commonwealth Government.

The government stated the new Inspectors will bring the dedicated state-wide team to a total of 78 staff.

Over half of the additional 30 have commenced or are about to commence, and the other half are in the process of being recruited.

The NSW and Commonwealth governments have previously discussed the impact of the high level of the federal tobacco excise which is driving many consumers towards cheaper illegal tobacco products.

Under the NSW Government’s tough new laws which have introduced closure order powers, NSW Health Inspectors, working together with NSW Police, are continuing to close down stores selling illicit tobacco and vaping goods.

The closure of five tobacconists in Sydney’s Inner West last week by NSW Health Inspectors and NSW Police brings the total to 66 stores closed since the laws came into effect in November 2025.

Between 1 January 2026 to 31 January 2026, NSW Health Inspectors have conducted 131 inspections, seizing around 560,000 cigarettes and 98kg of other illicit tobacco products and over 6000 illegal vaping goods with a combined estimated street value of around $830,000.

In January, NSW Health has also finalised 4 successful prosecutions with the courts imposing a total of $41,300 in fines related to e-cigarette and tobacco offences. There are currently a further 20 prosecutions before the Courts. 

The NSW Government stated it is continuing to strengthen compliance and enforcement of tobacco and vaping goods laws across NSW, with the Public Health (Tobacco) Amendment (Landlord Offences) Bill 2025 currently before Parliament and expected to be debated in the coming weeks.

The legislation will build on recent reforms which target the illicit tobacco and illegal vaping market, including:
  • a new offence for the possession of a commercial quantity of illicit tobacco with a maximum penalty of over $1.5 million and 7 years' imprisonment, or both
  • new penalties for the sale of illicit tobacco with a maximum penalty of over $1.5 million and 7 years' imprisonment, or both
  • the introduction of short-term (up to 90 days) and long-term (up to 12 months) closure orders for premises selling illicit tobacco, illegal vaping goods, or selling tobacco or non-tobacco smoking products without a licence
  • new offences and penalties for anyone who breaches these closure orders, including for entering closed premises or selling products from closed premises
  • new lease termination powers for landlords where a closure order is in place
  • new nation-leading offences for falsely claiming to be licensed, resisting seizure, and attempting to retake seized products.
The NSW Government stated it is also aware the sale of illicit tobacco and vaping products continues to evolve, with some retailers attempting to obscure and avoid the enforcement activities of NSW Health Inspectors, by using QR codes and social media communications to facilitate the ongoing sale of illicit tobacco to customers, after a closure order has been issued.  

NSW Police and NSW Health are working together to identify these methods and pivot their enforcement strategies to shut down this activity. 

Minister for Health Ryan Park stated: 

“I am very grateful for the additional support from the Commonwealth Government to assist in our tobacco enforcement efforts.

“It is an acknowledgement that the federal tobacco excise is out of step with the community and it is driving consumers towards cheaper illegal tobacco products.

“The assistance from the Commonwealth will help us get ahead of the prevalence of illegal tobacco over the next two years.

“But so long as the federal excise is where it is, we can continue to see illegal tobacco permeate throughout our high streets – and so I will continue to work constructively with our Commonwealth colleagues in establishing a more sustainable, long term and permanent funding stream for tobacco enforcement personnel.

“Our approach to illegal tobacco is more boots on the ground; tougher penalties; and more powers to close down bad actors.”

Narrabeen Lakes Amateur Swimming Club: Saturday Afternoons

Some say the key to keeping New Year's resolutions is to make them specific, measurable, and achievable. If health and wellness is yours, then swim clubs can help you achieve them.  It’s an easy exercise habit to develop, super cheap ($40 for the rest of the season), with measurable improvements.  And its heaps of fun and so good for your wellbeing.  

Just walking down the path to our beautiful Narrabeen ocean and lagoon sheds will help you destress and then you get to swim in our spectacular pool with some pretty wonderful people (at the most magical time of the year to swim).  

You can learn more about us at www.nlasc.com.au or just come down and swim a length of two with us and see what we're all about.  

You'll find us at Narrabeen rockpool every Saturday arvo from 1pm.

Petition: Stop Politicians from spamming & harvesting our data

Sign at: www.katechaney.com.au/spam-and-data-petition

We want political parties to communicate - but without bombarding us or harvesting our personal information.

This is a chance for the Government to act to protect voters.

Political Spam

We’re tired of getting swamped with political texts. Political parties shouldn’t be exempt from the Spam Act 2003 - they need to follow the same rules as every business. Prime Minister Albanese said on ABC Radio, “I certainly think that would be a reasonable thing to do, to ban the texts."

Data Harvesting - Postal Vote Applications

Millions of Australians vote by post. This process should be between you and the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) - not political parties fishing for your data. Right now, major parties send postal vote application forms – by SMS, email or to your mailbox - along with their political ads and ask you to send your application to a “processing centre” they control. They can then collect your personal details to use and share before passing the application on to the AEC. As AEC Commissioner Jeff Pope said on 31 March 2025, "Concerns about party postal vote applications through unsolicited outreach is the number one complaint we hear from voters at almost every federal election"

Governments in Victoria and Western Australia have fixed this. NSW is next. 

It’s time for the Federal Government to do the same!

More in report: Bill to Stop Politicians Harvesting your Data Via Postal Votes Introduced: Petition to support Bill

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

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

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

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


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

Cranzgots Pizza Cafe Closing March 15 2026

Cranzgots Pizza Cafe has announced it will close permanently on March 15.

This follows a DA proposal, first lodged in September 2024, which has been approved. The development consists of the construction of a new three (3) storey mixed use building containing 1 level of early childcare centre, retail/commercial tenancies on the ground floor and a single storey basement carparking located at 1-3 Careel Head Road Avalon Beach.


The proposal will require excavation to a depth of approximately 2.3 meters to enable the construction of a basement car parking.

In mid-December 2025 a small Notice was placed on the adjacent property at 3 Careel Head road advising of an application to have a licence to run a Dan Murphy's at the same location. Details were added into the December 2025 Community News Page:


Documents - reports - and plans available on this page: HERE

Live at Crannys will run every Saturday night (until 15th March!!) from 6pm… BE SURE TO RESERVE your table… the current proprietors and staff are looking forward to sharing more memories before they close. 

Some history on the site is available in:
Careel Head Road Shops and the North Bangalley- Burrowong Creeks: Some History by William (Bill) James Goddard II, Geoff Searl OAM, John Illingsworth and A J Guesdon

Pittwater Online will run further History insights into Pittwater Creeks, alongside the last of the 2024-2025 theme of Pittwater Public Wharves. The South Bangalley-North Avalon Beach ones run next, when the load/set is finished - then we head south, to Mona Vale, Narrabeen, Bungan and Newport before heading west to Ingleside, McCarrs Creek et al....

Careel Bay shoreline in 1938. Photo: Max Dupain, courtesy State Library of NSW

Mow for Ol'Mate in March

Sunday, 1 March 2026 - 09:00 am to Tuesday, 31 March 2026 - 05:00 pm
It's a simple idea with a big heart: neighbours helping neighbours, right in their own backyards. By mowing a couple of lawns for older members of the community, you're not just tidying up - you're checking in, having a chat and making sure they're safe, supported and doing OK at home.

A freshly mown lawn can mean independence, dignity and peace of mind - and sometimes a reason to to stop, say hello and connect. So, grab a mower in March and be part of something special in the Northern Beaches Community.

Join this amazing community mow-ment today. Register your interest via enquiries@mwpcare.com.au or call 9913 3244.

OR Are you over 65 and would like your lawn mowed? Call our friendly team on 9913 3244 to register your interest.

Contact information
MWP Community Care, email: enquiries@mwpcare.com.au


Victa rotary lawnmower and Mervyn Victor Richardson of Careel Bay, the owner of the company - 1955 - photo by Jack Hickson, Australian Photographic Agency - 01148. Taken by Australian Photographic Agency for account: Graves, Hayes & Baker 1642/55.

CSIRO partners with aviation sector to help STEM learning take flight

A new program is taking aviation expertise into classrooms across Australia to inspire an interest in STEM and help prepare students for jobs of the future.

Applications are now open for Aviators in Schools, a new nationwide initiative from Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, delivered in partnership with Aviation/Aerospace Australia. 

The program connects teachers with aviation and aerospace professionals to bring real‑world STEM learning into classrooms and inspire the next generation of industry talent, at a time where advanced technologies are unlocking new opportunities in the aviation sector. 

Australia faces a STEM skills shortage, with persistently low participation of women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in STEM. Programs like Aviators in Schools play an essential role in building capability and broadening access to future career pathways. 

Director of Education and Outreach at CSIRO, Ruth Carr, said the initiative aims to make STEM learning more engaging and relevant for students. 

"STEM education is critical to Australia’s long-term success and to improving employment opportunities for young people. It provides students with the skills and confidence to explore a wide range of career options and contribute to the industries shaping our future," said Ms Carr. 

The program brings aviation and aerospace professionals through flexible industry partnerships that can include mentoring, career talks, site visits, hands-on demonstrations and co-developed projects aligned with curriculum goals — helping students see how STEM connects to real careers. 

Chief Executive of Aviation/Aerospace Australia, Anntonette Dailey, said the program addresses known barriers to participation. 

“Evidence consistently shows that when we have a diverse workforce, we bring in new perspectives, make stronger decisions, and create the kind of collaborative energy that drives real creativity and innovation,” said Ms Dailey. 

“We know that a lack of access to relevant role models and mentors, as well as awareness about the opportunities available — especially in non-traditional roles such as engineering and technical jobs – continue to present a significant barrier to participation. 

“We are proud to partner with CSIRO to address these gaps and attract new talent, particularly women, to the industry,” explained Ms Dailey.   

Early participants are already seeing the benefits. 

Steevi-Anne Flack, Teacher at Findon Primary School in Victoria credited her paired professional, Joelle Chia, an aeronautical engineer, for helping the school shape its new STEM program.

"STEM was a new initiative in our school, and our vision wasn’t clear on where we wanted to take it. This collaboration brought fresh ideas and helped us see exciting possibilities," said Ms Flack. 

"Students were engaged in the lessons and experiments, and it was fascinating for them to see real-world connections, especially when activities like making lava lamps linked to aerospace engineering.” 

Aviators in School is free for registered teachers in Australian primary and secondary schools and is welcoming applications from teachers and STEM professionals with experience in aviation, aerospace or related fields. 

“Sometimes it’s hard for students to connect their learning to real-life scenarios or imagine where their interest could take them. Having someone working in the field share their passion and experiences really helped spark their thinking in STEM," said Ms Flack. 

The initiative is part of CSIRO’s STEM Professionals in Schools program, which in 2025 supported 1,100 registered teachers and 900 STEM professionals across Australia. 

Aviators in Schools is supported by the Australian Government Department of Education and the Australian Government Women in Aviation Industry Initiative, and is delivered by CSIRO in partnership with Aviation/Aerospace Australia.  

For more information about Aviators in School and the broader STEM Professionals in Schools initiative, visit: STEM Professionals in Schools initiative — CSIRO

Photo: Amanda Mey, Chief-Remote-Pilot at CSIRO, is one of the many professionals pairing up with teachers through the Aviators in Schools program. Photo: CSIRO/Supplied.

Putting Safety First in the Digital Age

On Thursday evening, February 12 2026, the NSW  Government’s digital work safety bill passed the NSW Parliament.

The bill will ensure that all work demands must be safe, whether they come from a human or come through artificial intelligence (AI) or algorithms. 

This will particularly benefit the growing number of gig workers who receive work instructions through an app or digital platform, including thousands food delivery drivers and riders, warehouse workers and home care workers.  

NSW is the home of innovation in Australia and digital work systems are being used extensively in NSW to grow productivity and efficiencies. The bill will ensure this continues safely.  

Throughout the public debate on the bill, including in Parliamentary inquiries since 2020, NSW has heard of the growing concerns of workers, including stories of workers using an app penalised for taking breaks, penalised if they don’t take an unsafe delivery route or pressured to rush care for NDIS clients. 

The need for these protections is underscored by the more than 366 total incidents involving gig food delivery riders, including tragically 7 fatalities in NSW.  

The bill requires industry guidelines, in consultation with business and unions, before any inspection powers are switched on. This will include specialised guidelines for the food delivery industry. 

The guidelines will provide further clarity to workers and businesses about what their rights and obligations under the new legislation are.  These measures will ensure that NSW gets the balance right. 

The Government and SafeWork NSW will also make a funding package available to assist businesses and unions in understanding those obligations. 

The bill also extends the well understood and existing right of entry framework under the Work Health and Safety Act (2011) (WHS Act) to digital systems.   

Despite the misinformation campaign from the NSW Opposition, the Bill does not override the existing safeguards in the WHS Act, including protections on data and privacy and penalties for misusing inspection powers.  

The passage of the bill demonstrates the commitment of the Minns Labor Government to keeping all workers safe at work, no matter how they work.  

Minister for Industrial Relations Sophie Cotsis said: 

“The Minns Labor Government is ensuring that workers are protected in the digital age. Behind every safety statistic is a person, a family, and a community. Our focus is simple: making sure every worker gets home safe at the end of the day.

“This reform follows the $127.7 Million package to workplace health and safety, ensuring better support for workers and businesses.

“Thank you to everyone involved and who contributed, especially those who gave evidence at the parliamentary inquiries that informed this Bill, and the families who have lost their loved ones to an unsafe system.

“I look forward to our continuing, productive dialogue with industry and unions to keep working Australians safe.” 

North Sydney Council to Apply for 52.66% Rise In Rates

At an Extraordinary Meeting held on January 21 2026 North Sydney Council  resolved to apply to IPART for a 52.66% cumulative increase to rates over three years (including the rate peg) together with an increase to the minimum residential and business rates of $396.08 above rate peg over the three-year period.

The council stated the submission will be focused on financial sustainability and infrastructure management while providing modest funding to respond to community needs and growth pressures.

The council had to submit its application by Monday 2 February. IPART will run a public consultation process where community members can provide feedback directly. 

IPART states its community consultation on special variation and minimum rate increase applications will commence on 17 February 2026 and run for 3 weeks. 

'During this period, we invite community feedback to help the Tribunal make an informed decision when assessing a council's application.

Your submission should address one or more of the criteria set by the Office of Local Government, as outlined below. You can provide feedback via a survey or through a submission (see here for IPART’s submissions policy). ' IPART states

More in IPART's webpage:

AOK: Urgent - Thursday Volunteers Needed

Every Thursday, we serve a hot meal to our homeless community — and right now, we urgently need help to make that happen.
We’re looking for one or two reliable people with transport and a working oven who can help heat pre-cooked meals each Thursday.

Quick details:
  • Food already cooked
  • Trays provided
  • Pick up Warriewood – Thursday morning
  • Heat in your oven
  • Return hot by 4pm
That’s it. No cooking. Just heating.

This has become a critical weekly gap, and having consistent Thursday support would take enormous pressure off and ensure our community doesn’t miss out on a hot meal.

If you:
💜 Live near Warriewood 
💜 Have a working oven
💜 Can help most Thursdays (even fortnightly)
👉 Please comment or message us ASAP. at: 

If Thursdays aren’t possible but you’d like to help in another way, still reach out — we have other roles too.

Thank you for helping us keep our community fed with dignity.
— Sarah & the AOK team

MWP Care Seeking Volunteers

Our business relies on the kindness of strangers...
Looking for a way to give back without giving up your lifestyle?

Become part of our Volunteer IMPACT Club and gain access to exercise classes, social events, Silver Surfers, tables at trivia as well as training and development workshops! Plus – have your petrol reimbursed!!

Volunteering with MWP fits around your life and your schedule, letting you make a real impact in your local community. Enjoy meeting like-minded people, learning new skills, and knowing that your time is changing lives every day.
Your Time. Your Way. Your Impact. 

Find out more here: mwpcare.com.au/get-involved

Inaugural Surf Lifesaving Red & Yellow Day

On Wednesday 4 March 2026, Surf Life Saving Australia will launch the very first Red & Yellow Day, a new nationwide celebration of Surf Life Saving and the thousands of volunteer surf lifesavers who keep our beaches safe.

With one month to go until the inaugural Red & Yellow Day, Surf Life Saving Australia is calling on everyone across Australia to take part, by wearing the colours, donating, fundraising, signing up at your local club and by staying beach-safe.

Red & Yellow Day is an opportunity to:

  • Improve public awareness of the vital work of Surf Life Saving and the thousands of volunteer surf lifesavers around the country
  • Educate communities, families and individuals about essential water safety information
  • Increase fundraising to maintain and replace equipment, train volunteer surf life savers and deliver water safety education in communities
  • Inspire more Australians to get involved and support their local community

Events and activations are being planned around the country as the countdown to March 4 begins, with more information about national and local activity to be shared in the lead up to Red & Yellow Day.

Surf Life Saving Australia CEO, Adam Weir said:

“With one month until Red & Yellow Day, now is the time for schools, clubs, businesses, and individuals across Australia to get behind the day.

“Red & Yellow Day is an opportunity for all of us to show our support for the thousands of volunteer surf lifesavers who give their time to keep our beaches safe.

“The best way you can get involved is by wearing red and yellow on March 4, and by always swimming between the red and yellow flags.”

Surf Life Saving Australia’s major national partner DHL is supporting Red & Yellow Day by delivering up to 1000 Red & Yellow Day Party Packs nationally, with 100% of the purchase price going directly to supporting volunteer surf lifesaving services.

The Red & Yellow Day Party Pack contains everything you need to host a Red & Yellow Day event and are available to purchase now via redandyellowday.org.au.

For inspiration on how to get involved on March 4, check out the Red & Yellow Day campaign video below, or to learn more about Red & Yellow Day, visit redandyellowday.org.au.

By getting behind Red & Yellow Day, you’ll be supporting the vital work of Surf Life Saving volunteers around the country.

When you back the surf lifesavers on Red & Yellow Day, you can help save lives too.

Development Coordination Authority (DCA) changes: Feedback invited

The Minns Government has announced it is putting the proposed regulatory changes to create the Development Coordination Authority (DCA) on public exhibition.

The government states the changes will make navigating the planning system faster and easier for applicants and councils by centralising State agency advice and decision-making so applicants no longer need to navigate at times conflicting and confusing advice from up to 22 different areas of Government.

Through the DCA, the NSW Government is putting a stop to unnecessary delays ending a system which saw a DA with just one referral take an average of 60 days longer to assess than a DA without one, and where each additional referral added up to 100 days to assessment timeframes.

Under proposed regulatory changes the need for expert advice from the DCA and other bodies on local DAs will be consolidated from more than 800 requirements across 175 planning instruments into a single list aligned with the government's State priorities.

The government states this list will sit in State Environmental Planning Policy (Planning Systems) 2021, making it easier to access and understand for all users of the planning system and safeguarding areas like the environment, heritage, bush fire management and infrastructure operation with the DCA as a single point of contact on all State matters.

The DCA will be required to meet strict timelines.

The government states the DCA and other bodies will have 28 days to provide feedback on development applications (DAs), providing consistent response times and helping speed up assessment times.

The DCA, began initial operations in December and is already helping connect applicants to the right areas of Government and providing post-development consent support so projects can begin construction sooner.

Its main stated functions - to bring together experts from a broad range of state agencies so conflicts can be resolved quickly and allow a single, coordinated response - will begin on 1 July. Find out more here.

The government states the proposed changes are part of a landmark overhaul of the State’s planning system designed to tackle delays and complexity adding to construction costs and create a faster, fairer and modern planning system in NSW.

How DCA will work and proposed regulatory changes, will be exhibited from Thursday, 29 January to Wednesday, 25 February 2026. To have your say, visit www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/draftplans/exhibition/have-your-say-establishing-development-coordination-authority-dca

This is the first public exhibition to implement the landmark Planning System Reforms Bill 2025 which passed parliament in November 2025.

See: Scruby slams government and opposition teaming up to make it easy for developers as NSW Planning System Reform Bill passes - community asks: who are these elected Representatives actually representing?

Now Open: funding round for the NSW Government's Holiday Break Autumn/Winter 2026 program

If you want to bring young people together during the Autumn and/or Winter school holidays then this may be good news; a new round of the NSW Government’s Holiday Break funding is now open

Start preparing now so you can be ready to submit as soon as the funding round opens! We will notify you once the funding round opens.

Key program guidelines:
  • Applicants are encouraged to design high quality, fun and engaging activities for the exclusive participation of young people aged 12-24 years.
  • Applicants can deliver the activities in the Autumn and/or winter holidays, and apply for both rounds in a single application.
  • Eligible organisations can apply for funding which can be split across the autumn and/or winter school holidays. Additional travel loading is still available per organisation if an external supplier is needed to deliver the program in remote or very remote parts of NSW.
  • Successful applicants will receive one funding agreement for the program.
Please email grants@officeforyouth.nsw.gov.au with any questions, or find out more by visiting nsw.gov.au/HolidayBreak.        
NSW Office for Youth

Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week

Bean 

9 yo Chihuahua X

Bean is a gentle, passive, affectionate boy who is social with other small gentle dogs. He gets very nervous of bossy dogs. Bean is not used to a lot of handling and affection and is looking for an experienced handler to make him more comfortable with handling and the outside world. He has a Grade 3 heart murmur but there is no heart enlargement, and he is not needing any pills. He has just had a dental and had 19 teeth extracted! He had 9 already missing. He has a short coat and weighs 4.2kg. He is desexed, fully vaccinated, heartworm free and chipped. His adoption cost is $600. 

Jethro 

12mths Ridgeback X

Jethro is a sweet but very timid boy. He needs an experienced family to help him gain confidence. He is nervous of cars and busy places. He is a "velcro dog" when he is scared. He loves treats. He has a smooth coat and weighs 28.7kg. He is desexed, fully vaccinated, heartworm free and chipped. His adoption cost is $400.  

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

Oppose the Planning Reforms: Petition

Liberals have worked with Labor to radically reform NSW's planning rules to be developer-led. 

NSW is implementing the biggest reforms in 50 years - overriding council-led planning and existing planning controls, and reducing community voices in planning decisions. 

These blanket planning laws disregard strategic council-led planning and centralise state-power, opening up the risk of corruption and lack of transparency in decision making. 

Although some mum and dad developers will welcome some streamlining, the reality is that we will face a development onslaught that will allow developers more scope to build where they want, when they want. 

We all knew the NSW Government was focused on delivering housing and was going to embark on these reforms, but we thought there would be resistance from the Opposition. Instead, the Liberal party worked with the government. 

"We are now a pro-supply, yimby-based (Yes In My Back Yard) party... getting government out of the way and letting developers build houses," according to Liberal MLC the Hon. Chris Rath.

I have spoken in parliament against these reforms and was one of only four MPs out of 93 who voted against these reforms in the Legislative Assembly. Please view my speech for details on the reform. 

We must continue this fight, which is likely to be long and difficult. Many small groups are popping up, but we are stronger together. 

This petition will allow me to build a co-ordinated campaign and keep you informed on planning. 

If you want to keep community voice in planning decisions and balanced developments that protect the environment, please sign my petition and remember to tell us if you are affected by any development applications or offers to purchase your property.

Jacqui Scrub,
MP for Pittwater

 

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

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

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