Changes To Sydney Water Protections Hard To Swallow
13 October 2017: By EDO NSW Outreach Director - Community Programs, Jemilah HallinanThe NSW Government this week passed a law to overrule the Court of Appeal’s decision that the Springvale coal mine was unlawfully approved. But it went one step further and also weakened laws that protect Sydney’s drinking water catchment. This retroactive law denies the public the opportunity to hear extensive expert evidence on the future of the mine and allows industries like mining to continue polluting Sydney’s drinking water into the future.
Springvale mine fails to meet water quality standardsIn August this year, the NSW Court of Appeal held that planning approval for an extension to the Springvale mine was invalid as the mine did not meet a legal standard designed to protect the quality of Sydney’s drinking water. The standard is known as the ‘neutral or beneficial effect’ test, or NorBE, and it requires a consent authority to refuse development consent to a proposed development unless it is satisfied it will have a neutral or beneficial effect on water quality.
A variation of the NorBE test was first introduced in 1998, following a series of contamination incidents in the Sydney drinking water catchment. This test is vital to ensuring developments within the catchment do not individually or cumulatively pollute water and that the water supplied to the communities of Sydney and its surrounds is safe to drink.
The Nattai River, in Sydney's water catchment.
Protecting drinking water standards in CourtCommunity group 4nature, represented by EDO NSW, challenged the consent for the extension to the Springvale coal mine on the grounds that the NorBE test had not been met. The Land and Environment Court dismissed the case but on appeal the NSW Court of Appeal found that the test had not been applied correctly and therefore the consent was invalid. The Court of Appeal remitted the matter back to the Land and Environment Court to hear submissions from both parties before making orders that will determine the future of the mine. The hearing was due to start on Monday next week (16 October).
Government introduces special legislationInstead of allowing the Land and Environment Court to implement the findings of the Court of Appeal, the Government passed legislation to permit the mine to continue operating. These laws were introduced in response to Springvale mine’s claim that as the current sole provider of coal to the Mt Piper Power Station, if the Court orders the mine to close, Mt Piper will need to find an alternative source of coal which may impact on energy supply. The Government claimed this would lead to an energy crisis and drive up the cost of energy for consumers. The passing of the special legislation means the public won’t be able to hear these statements tested in Court by experts.
The new legislation includes a provision that validates the Springvale mine extension effective from the date it was originally approved back in 2015. But it also changes how the NorBE test is applied to existing developments that are seeking to expand. Those developments, referred to as ‘continuing developments’, are taken to have a neutral or beneficial effect on water quality if they will have the same or lesser adverse impact on water quality as the existing development. These changes come despite the recent finding of the 2016 Audit of the Sydney Water Drinking Catchment that coal mining in Sydney's drinking water catchment is having a cumulative and possibly accelerated impact on our drinking water.
This new legislation means that while new developments must have a neutral or beneficial effect on water quality, existing developments wishing to expand can continue to pollute at their current levels, no matter how out of date those standards might be. This will not only prevent continuous improvement in pollution management (a key element of our pollution laws) in Sydney's drinking water catchment, it places existing polluting industries at an advantage over any new developments within the catchment which must meet a higher standard under the NorBE test. This is particularly problematic where a mine or other development is operating under old and out of date consent conditions that do not meet modern standards of technology, efficiency or environmental compliance. There is currently no legal mechanism in place to ensure consent conditions evolve with available technology, monitoring data and community expectations andthese changes remove an opportunity for existing industries to come up to date with more environmental and community standards.
Until the NSW Government adopts the practice of regularly updating consent conditions, the proposed changes to the NorBE test could pose unacceptable levels of risk to our drinking water and the overall health of the Catchment.
EP&A (Sydney Drinking Water Catchment) Bill 2017 (Validation of Springvale mine extension development consent)
13 October 2017: By EDO NSW Outreach Director - Community Programs, Jemilah Hallinan
The NSW Government this week passed a law to overrule the Court of Appeal’s decision that the Springvale coal mine was unlawfully approved. But it went one step further and also weakened laws that protect Sydney’s drinking water catchment. This retroactive law denies the public the opportunity to hear extensive expert evidence on the future of the mine and allows industries like mining to continue polluting Sydney’s drinking water into the future.
Springvale mine fails to meet water quality standards
In August this year, the NSW Court of Appeal held that planning approval for an extension to the Springvale mine was invalid as the mine did not meet a legal standard designed to protect the quality of Sydney’s drinking water. The standard is known as the ‘neutral or beneficial effect’ test, or NorBE, and it requires a consent authority to refuse development consent to a proposed development unless it is satisfied it will have a neutral or beneficial effect on water quality.
A variation of the NorBE test was first introduced in 1998, following a series of contamination incidents in the Sydney drinking water catchment. This test is vital to ensuring developments within the catchment do not individually or cumulatively pollute water and that the water supplied to the communities of Sydney and its surrounds is safe to drink.
The Nattai River, in Sydney's water catchment.
Protecting drinking water standards in Court
Community group 4nature, represented by EDO NSW, challenged the consent for the extension to the Springvale coal mine on the grounds that the NorBE test had not been met. The Land and Environment Court dismissed the case but on appeal the NSW Court of Appeal found that the test had not been applied correctly and therefore the consent was invalid. The Court of Appeal remitted the matter back to the Land and Environment Court to hear submissions from both parties before making orders that will determine the future of the mine. The hearing was due to start on Monday next week (16 October).
Government introduces special legislation
Instead of allowing the Land and Environment Court to implement the findings of the Court of Appeal, the Government passed legislation to permit the mine to continue operating. These laws were introduced in response to Springvale mine’s claim that as the current sole provider of coal to the Mt Piper Power Station, if the Court orders the mine to close, Mt Piper will need to find an alternative source of coal which may impact on energy supply. The Government claimed this would lead to an energy crisis and drive up the cost of energy for consumers. The passing of the special legislation means the public won’t be able to hear these statements tested in Court by experts.
The new legislation includes a provision that validates the Springvale mine extension effective from the date it was originally approved back in 2015. But it also changes how the NorBE test is applied to existing developments that are seeking to expand. Those developments, referred to as ‘continuing developments’, are taken to have a neutral or beneficial effect on water quality if they will have the same or lesser adverse impact on water quality as the existing development. These changes come despite the recent finding of the 2016 Audit of the Sydney Water Drinking Catchment that coal mining in Sydney's drinking water catchment is having a cumulative and possibly accelerated impact on our drinking water.
This new legislation means that while new developments must have a neutral or beneficial effect on water quality, existing developments wishing to expand can continue to pollute at their current levels, no matter how out of date those standards might be. This will not only prevent continuous improvement in pollution management (a key element of our pollution laws) in Sydney's drinking water catchment, it places existing polluting industries at an advantage over any new developments within the catchment which must meet a higher standard under the NorBE test. This is particularly problematic where a mine or other development is operating under old and out of date consent conditions that do not meet modern standards of technology, efficiency or environmental compliance. There is currently no legal mechanism in place to ensure consent conditions evolve with available technology, monitoring data and community expectations andthese changes remove an opportunity for existing industries to come up to date with more environmental and community standards.
Until the NSW Government adopts the practice of regularly updating consent conditions, the proposed changes to the NorBE test could pose unacceptable levels of risk to our drinking water and the overall health of the Catchment.
EP&A (Sydney Drinking Water Catchment) Bill 2017 (Validation of Springvale mine extension development consent)
New Law Overturns Springvale Mine Court Ruling And Weakens Drinking Water Protection
Aussie Bird Count 2017: Birds In Pittwater - What's Here?
The Aussie Bird Count is a great way to connect with the birds in your backyard no matter where your backyard happens to be — a suburban backyard, a local park, a patch of forest, down by the beach, or the main street of town. It's organised by BirdLife Australia, our major bird conservation organisation.
You can count as many times as you like over the week, we just ask that each count is completed over a 20-minute period. The data collected assists BirdLife Australia in understanding more about the birds that live where people live.Go to https://aussiebirdcount.org.au/ for more information.Runs October 23-29
The Aussie Bird Count is a great way to connect with the birds in your backyard no matter where your backyard happens to be — a suburban backyard, a local park, a patch of forest, down by the beach, or the main street of town. It's organised by BirdLife Australia, our major bird conservation organisation.
You can count as many times as you like over the week, we just ask that each count is completed over a 20-minute period. The data collected assists BirdLife Australia in understanding more about the birds that live where people live.Go to https://aussiebirdcount.org.au/ for more information.
Runs October 23-29
Lock The Gate Responds To NSW Government Move To Weaken Protection Of Sydney’s Water In Favour Of A Polluting Coal Mine: Let The Court Do Its Job
October 09, 2017: Lock the Gate AllianceLock the Gate Alliance says the New South Wales Government must not go through with plans reported in The Australian this morning to weaken laws that protect Sydney’s drinking water catchment so that Springvale coal mine would not have to comply with them.
Springvale coal mine supplies coal to Mount Piper power station in the Blue Mountains. It also dumps polluted water into waterways that feed Sydney’s Warragamba dam.
Environmental group 4Nature successfully argued in the Court of Appeal in August that an approval granted to a controversial expansion of the coal mine two years ago was not valid because it had not considered crucial catchment protection law that requires any development in Sydney’s drinking water catchment to have a “neutral or beneficial effect” on the quality of water in the catchment.
The mine has not been ordered to close by the court, and has been operating continually since the 4Nature victory, while arguments are made in court about what remedy the Land and Environment Court should impose, given the role of the mine in supplying coal to Mount Piper.
“The Land and Environment Court has a job to do to honour the law that protects the pristine quality of our drinking water from coal mining and other development," said Georgina Woods from Lock the Gate.
“Weakening the law for the convenience of a coal mining company that is polluting drinking water is a reckless and unnecessary reaction. Protecting drinking water should be our highest priority.
“There’s plenty of coal being mined in this state, we’re mining more coal than ever before. The idea that a power station cannot secure alternative supplies if a polluting coal mine must be closed to protect the water that supplies Sydney is absurd. Who’s running this state? The coal industry or the Coalition Government?
“We urge all members of parliament not to weaken this important law and let the Court do its job finding a solution to this impasse that does not compromise Sydney’s drinking water,” Georgina Woods said.
Palm Beach CleanupSunday, November 12 at 9 AM - 11 AMJoin Living Ocean, The Green Team & Wander Lightly for a Christmas beach clean at Palm Beach.
With the Ocean predicted to have more plastic than fish in it by 2050 it is the best present you can give the Planet this Christmas!The Boathouse has ever so generously offered to provide some refreshments and a free coffee or tea (when you bring your own reusable cup; they have them onsite if you forget)Meet at The Boathouse on the Pittwater side of Palm Beach
Living Ocean will spare some time after the clean up to record all data on the day which will be uploaded to the Tangaroa Blue Marine debris data base & for their Mirco Plastics research project.Helpers required so please leave a comment if you are abe to spare some time.
9am - 10am - Beach Clean10am – Tally counting for Tangaroa Blue
All welcome & dont forget to bring a bucket or bag to collect trash in & a pair of gloves to keep your mitts safe!
October 09, 2017: Lock the Gate Alliance
Lock the Gate Alliance says the New South Wales Government must not go through with plans reported in The Australian this morning to weaken laws that protect Sydney’s drinking water catchment so that Springvale coal mine would not have to comply with them.
Springvale coal mine supplies coal to Mount Piper power station in the Blue Mountains. It also dumps polluted water into waterways that feed Sydney’s Warragamba dam.
Environmental group 4Nature successfully argued in the Court of Appeal in August that an approval granted to a controversial expansion of the coal mine two years ago was not valid because it had not considered crucial catchment protection law that requires any development in Sydney’s drinking water catchment to have a “neutral or beneficial effect” on the quality of water in the catchment.
The mine has not been ordered to close by the court, and has been operating continually since the 4Nature victory, while arguments are made in court about what remedy the Land and Environment Court should impose, given the role of the mine in supplying coal to Mount Piper.
“The Land and Environment Court has a job to do to honour the law that protects the pristine quality of our drinking water from coal mining and other development," said Georgina Woods from Lock the Gate.
“Weakening the law for the convenience of a coal mining company that is polluting drinking water is a reckless and unnecessary reaction. Protecting drinking water should be our highest priority.
“There’s plenty of coal being mined in this state, we’re mining more coal than ever before. The idea that a power station cannot secure alternative supplies if a polluting coal mine must be closed to protect the water that supplies Sydney is absurd. Who’s running this state? The coal industry or the Coalition Government?
“We urge all members of parliament not to weaken this important law and let the Court do its job finding a solution to this impasse that does not compromise Sydney’s drinking water,” Georgina Woods said.
Palm Beach Cleanup
Sunday, November 12 at 9 AM - 11 AM
Join Living Ocean, The Green Team & Wander Lightly for a Christmas beach clean at Palm Beach.
With the Ocean predicted to have more plastic than fish in it by 2050 it is the best present you can give the Planet this Christmas!
The Boathouse has ever so generously offered to provide some refreshments and a free coffee or tea (when you bring your own reusable cup; they have them onsite if you forget)
Meet at The Boathouse on the Pittwater side of Palm Beach
Living Ocean will spare some time after the clean up to record all data on the day which will be uploaded to the Tangaroa Blue Marine debris data base & for their Mirco Plastics research project.
Helpers required so please leave a comment if you are abe to spare some time.
9am - 10am - Beach Clean
10am – Tally counting for Tangaroa Blue
All welcome & dont forget to bring a bucket or bag to collect trash in & a pair of gloves to keep your mitts safe!
Sydney's Drinking Water Should Not Be Polluted By Rogue Coal Mine
Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment Activities
Oxford Falls triangle
Sunday 22/10 7.30- 11am This walk will only take about 2 hrs walking, but a few small pampas grass clumps need removal and we will have morning tea in the creek bed or on a high rock ledge.Please bring gloves and morning tea.Bookings: Conny Harris 0432643295 or Email Conny
Terrey Hills to Morgan Rd Saturday 4/11 7.30-11.30 am Start at Terrey Hills cross the Deep Creek catchment valley and walk along feeder creek and end at Morgan Rd. Please bring gloves, old screwdriver and am tea. Plan is to include 30 min weeding. Carpool required.Bookings: Conny Harris 0432 643 295 or Email Conny
Spotlight Walk - 8:15pm Monday Nov 27This walk will take place after Jayden Walsh has shown pictures and talked about amphibians and reptiles in Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment.8:15pm Meet at Katoa Close. Spaces limited to 30 people
Spotlight Walk - 8pm Friday Dec 15Spotlighting walk - meet at start of Slippery Dip Trail. Spaces limited to 20 people
Wildlife Walk - 7:30am Friday January 19, 2018Meet at end of Deep Creek Carpark. Spaces limited to 30 peopleEmail: Friends of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment to get a ticket and book a place for one of these fascinating Wildlife Walks led by Jayden Walsh.
Bush Regeneration - Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment This is a wonderful way to become connected to nature and contribute to the health of the environment. Over the weeks and months you can see positive changes as you give native species a better chance to thrive. Wildlife appreciate the improvement in their habitat.
Belrose area - Thursday mornings Belrose area - Weekend mornings by arrangementContact: Phone or text Conny Harris on 0432 643 295
Wheeler Creek - Wednesday mornings 9-11amContact: Phone or text Judith Bennett on 0402 974 105Or email: Friends of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment : email@narrabeenlagoon.org.au
Eco Paddle on Narrabeen Lagoon1pm, Sunday Feb 11, 2018Black Swan have returned to the lagoon after 20 years - come and see these majestic creatures! This paddle will visit the Western Basin, Deep and Middle Creeks. Beautiful Deep Creek attracts migratory birds from as far away as Russia and Middle Creek has been the subject of a substantial remediation programme. A relaxing 2 to 3 hour afternoon paddle. No previous kayaking experience required, tuition given. BYO boat or a hire kayak can be arranged for you at cost. Bookings essential.Email tonycarr@ozemail.com.au or call 0417 502 056.
Oxford Falls triangle
Sunday 22/10 7.30- 11am
This walk will only take about 2 hrs walking, but a few small pampas grass clumps need removal and we will have morning tea in the creek bed or on a high rock ledge.
Please bring gloves and morning tea.
Bookings: Conny Harris 0432643295 or Email Conny
Terrey Hills to Morgan Rd
Saturday 4/11 7.30-11.30 am
Start at Terrey Hills cross the Deep Creek catchment valley and walk along feeder creek and end at Morgan Rd. Please bring gloves, old screwdriver and am tea. Plan is to include 30 min weeding. Carpool required.
Bookings: Conny Harris 0432 643 295 or Email Conny
Spotlight Walk - 8:15pm Monday Nov 27
This walk will take place after Jayden Walsh has shown pictures and talked about amphibians and reptiles in Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment.
8:15pm Meet at Katoa Close. Spaces limited to 30 people
Spotlight Walk - 8pm Friday Dec 15
Spotlighting walk - meet at start of Slippery Dip Trail. Spaces limited to 20 people
Wildlife Walk - 7:30am Friday January 19, 2018
Meet at end of Deep Creek Carpark. Spaces limited to 30 people
Email: Friends of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment to get a ticket and book a place for one of these fascinating Wildlife Walks led by Jayden Walsh.
Bush Regeneration - Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment
This is a wonderful way to become connected to nature and contribute to the health of the environment. Over the weeks and months you can see positive changes as you give native species a better chance to thrive. Wildlife appreciate the improvement in their habitat.
Belrose area - Thursday mornings
Belrose area - Weekend mornings by arrangement
Contact: Phone or text Conny Harris on 0432 643 295
Wheeler Creek - Wednesday mornings 9-11am
Contact: Phone or text Judith Bennett on 0402 974 105
Or email: Friends of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment : email@narrabeenlagoon.org.au
Eco Paddle on Narrabeen Lagoon
1pm, Sunday Feb 11, 2018
Black Swan have returned to the lagoon after 20 years - come and see these majestic creatures! This paddle will visit the Western Basin, Deep and Middle Creeks. Beautiful Deep Creek attracts migratory birds from as far away as Russia and Middle Creek has been the subject of a substantial remediation programme. A relaxing 2 to 3 hour afternoon paddle. No previous kayaking experience required, tuition given. BYO boat or a hire kayak can be arranged for you at cost.
Bookings essential.
Email tonycarr@ozemail.com.au or call 0417 502 056.
Spike In Particulate Air Pollution Prompts Calls For Action
Bird Walks And Talks 2017: PNHA
Come and see and hear some of our fantastic native birds, many of which you'll never see in your garden. Join in a Sunday guided bird walk with Pittwater Natural Heritage Association. All walks start at 8am and end about 10am.
November 26 Warriewood Wetlands. Meet end of Katoa Close, north Narrabeen.
Bring binoculars if possible. Drink, hat and comfortable shoes.More information contact pnhabirdwatching@gmail.com or Ph Kerry on 0402 605 721.
You don't need to book but if we know you're coming we'll watch out for you. Call if in doubt about weather as we won't go out if it's raining.
Come and see and hear some of our fantastic native birds, many of which you'll never see in your garden. Join in a Sunday guided bird walk with Pittwater Natural Heritage Association. All walks start at 8am and end about 10am.
November 26 Warriewood Wetlands. Meet end of Katoa Close, north Narrabeen.
Bring binoculars if possible. Drink, hat and comfortable shoes.
More information contact pnhabirdwatching@gmail.com or
Ph Kerry on 0402 605 721.
You don't need to book but if we know you're coming we'll watch out for you. Call if in doubt about weather as we won't go out if it's raining.
Update On Baleen 2D HR Seismic Survey
Scientists Develop Tool Which Can Predict Coastal Erosion And Recovery In Extreme Storms
Commercial Use Of Protected Plants: Public Consultation
Breeding Failure Of Nearly 20,000 Adélie Penguins
13 October 2017: WWFA colony of over 18,000 pairs of Adélie penguins in Terre Adélie, Antarctica, suffered a catastrophic breeding failure at the start of 2017 with only two chicks surviving. WWF is demanding greater protections of the waters off East Antarctica next week at a crucial international meeting in Hobart, Australia where proposals for a new Marine Protected Area (MPA) will be considered.
Surviving mostly on a diet of krill, a small shrimp like crustacean, Adélie penguins are generally faring well in East Antarctica, but declining in the Antarctic peninsula region where climate change is well established. However, this significant breeding failure at this particular colony in East Antarctica has been linked to unusually extensive sea ice late in the summer, meaning the adult penguins had to travel further to forage for food for their chicks. As a result the chicks starved.
The Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR), comprising 25 member states and the EU, are meeting on the 16th October 2017 in Hobart, where they will consider a proposal for a new Marine Protected Area (MPA) for the waters off East Antarctica. The proposal for an MPA, led by Australia and France with the EU, has been on the table at CCAMLR for eight years but has yet to be agreed.
Nevertheless, expectations are running high as last year CCAMLR adopted the Ross Sea MPA, the largest protected area in the world. An MPA would help to secure a future for the amazing wildlife and marine biodiversity of East Antarctica, including Adélie and emperor penguins. Four years ago, the same colony which numbered 20,196 pairs at the time, failed to produce a single chick. Again heavy sea ice, combined with unusually warm weather and rain, followed by a rapid drop in temperature, resulted in many chicks becoming saturated and freezing to death.
WWF has been supporting penguin research by French scientists working for the French National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS) in the region since 2010. Rod Downie, Head of Polar Programmes at WWF said:
‘Adélie penguins are one of the hardiest and most amazing animals on our planet. This devastating event contrasts with the image that many people might have of penguins. It’s more like ‘Tarantino does Happy Feet’, with dead penguin chicks strewn across a beach in Adélie Land.
‘The risk of opening up this area to exploratory krill fisheries, which would compete with the Adélie penguins for food as they recover from two catastrophic breeding failures in four years, is unthinkable. So CCAMLR needs to act now by adopting a new Marine Protected Area for the waters off East Antarctica, to protect the home of the penguins’.
The MPA proposal originally comprised seven large marine areas off the coast of East Antarctica but subsequently reduced to four. However, it is anticipated that only three of those (MacRobertson, Drygalski, and the D’Urville Sea-Mertz region, where the Petrel Island Adélie colony is located) will be adopted this year. The D’Urville Sea Mertz region in particular needs to be set aside as off limits to krill fisheries in order to protect the foraging and breeding grounds of Adélie penguins.
WWF expects the other four areas, comprising Gunnerus, Enderby, Prydz Bay, and Wilkes to be brought back in front of CCAMLR in future years.
Yan Ropert-Coudert, senior penguin scientist at the CNRS who leads the Adélie penguin programme at Dumont D’Urville research station, adjacent to the colony, said:
"The region is impacted by environmental changes that are linked to the breakup of the Mertz glacier since 2010. An MPA will not remedy these changes but it could prevent further impacts that direct anthropogenic pressures, such as tourism and proposed fisheries, could bring". Christopher Johnson, Senior manager, WWF Antarctic Program, said:
“The death of so many Adélie penguin chicks shows just how tough life can be in Antarctica. The last thing these penguins need is more pressure.
“That’s why it’s crucial CCAMLR locks in an MPA in East Antarctica to help secure a future for Adélie penguins and all the other amazing wildlife and marine biodiversity.
“After CCAMLR adopted the Ross Sea MPA last year, expectations are running high for another significant achievement this year”.
One of the many dead Adélie penguin chicks found on Petrels Island in the Antarctica. Photograph: Y Ropert-Coudert/CNRS/IPEV
13 October 2017: WWF
A colony of over 18,000 pairs of Adélie penguins in Terre Adélie, Antarctica, suffered a catastrophic breeding failure at the start of 2017 with only two chicks surviving. WWF is demanding greater protections of the waters off East Antarctica next week at a crucial international meeting in Hobart, Australia where proposals for a new Marine Protected Area (MPA) will be considered.
Surviving mostly on a diet of krill, a small shrimp like crustacean, Adélie penguins are generally faring well in East Antarctica, but declining in the Antarctic peninsula region where climate change is well established. However, this significant breeding failure at this particular colony in East Antarctica has been linked to unusually extensive sea ice late in the summer, meaning the adult penguins had to travel further to forage for food for their chicks. As a result the chicks starved.
The Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR), comprising 25 member states and the EU, are meeting on the 16th October 2017 in Hobart, where they will consider a proposal for a new Marine Protected Area (MPA) for the waters off East Antarctica. The proposal for an MPA, led by Australia and France with the EU, has been on the table at CCAMLR for eight years but has yet to be agreed.
Nevertheless, expectations are running high as last year CCAMLR adopted the Ross Sea MPA, the largest protected area in the world. An MPA would help to secure a future for the amazing wildlife and marine biodiversity of East Antarctica, including Adélie and emperor penguins.
Four years ago, the same colony which numbered 20,196 pairs at the time, failed to produce a single chick. Again heavy sea ice, combined with unusually warm weather and rain, followed by a rapid drop in temperature, resulted in many chicks becoming saturated and freezing to death.
WWF has been supporting penguin research by French scientists working for the French National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS) in the region since 2010.
Rod Downie, Head of Polar Programmes at WWF said:
‘Adélie penguins are one of the hardiest and most amazing animals on our planet. This devastating event contrasts with the image that many people might have of penguins. It’s more like ‘Tarantino does Happy Feet’, with dead penguin chicks strewn across a beach in Adélie Land.
‘The risk of opening up this area to exploratory krill fisheries, which would compete with the Adélie penguins for food as they recover from two catastrophic breeding failures in four years, is unthinkable. So CCAMLR needs to act now by adopting a new Marine Protected Area for the waters off East Antarctica, to protect the home of the penguins’.
The MPA proposal originally comprised seven large marine areas off the coast of East Antarctica but subsequently reduced to four. However, it is anticipated that only three of those (MacRobertson, Drygalski, and the D’Urville Sea-Mertz region, where the Petrel Island Adélie colony is located) will be adopted this year. The D’Urville Sea Mertz region in particular needs to be set aside as off limits to krill fisheries in order to protect the foraging and breeding grounds of Adélie penguins.
WWF expects the other four areas, comprising Gunnerus, Enderby, Prydz Bay, and Wilkes to be brought back in front of CCAMLR in future years.
Yan Ropert-Coudert, senior penguin scientist at the CNRS who leads the Adélie penguin programme at Dumont D’Urville research station, adjacent to the colony, said:
"The region is impacted by environmental changes that are linked to the breakup of the Mertz glacier since 2010. An MPA will not remedy these changes but it could prevent further impacts that direct anthropogenic pressures, such as tourism and proposed fisheries, could bring".
Christopher Johnson, Senior manager, WWF Antarctic Program, said:
“The death of so many Adélie penguin chicks shows just how tough life can be in Antarctica. The last thing these penguins need is more pressure.
“That’s why it’s crucial CCAMLR locks in an MPA in East Antarctica to help secure a future for Adélie penguins and all the other amazing wildlife and marine biodiversity.
“After CCAMLR adopted the Ross Sea MPA last year, expectations are running high for another significant achievement this year”.
One of the many dead Adélie penguin chicks found on Petrels Island in the Antarctica. Photograph: Y Ropert-Coudert/CNRS/IPEV
Forestry Corporation Of NSW Fined $8,000 For Licence Breach
Edmondson Regional Park Now Open For Visitors
Breeding Salt-Tolerant Plants
October 10, 2017Soil erosion is considered as a problem that puts the nutrition of the human population at jeopardy. One of its aspects is soil salination, which affects in particular dry regions of Earth, where farmers are forced to irrigate their fields heavily. Large quantities of the salts dissolved in the water, such as sodium and chloride, are diffused into the soil and remain there after the water has evaporated. The salt stunts the crops and can even make soils infertile in the long run.
"All approaches so far to breed salt-tolerant plants must be considered more or less as failures," says Professor Rainer Hedrich, plant scientist at the Julius-Maximilians-Universität (JMU) Würzburg in Bavaria, Germany. They all aimed at making crop plants grow on saline soils and to identify salt-tolerant breed lines in the process. But this approach cannot work.
And that is for a reason: "Our crop plants are the result of many years of breeding. During that time, man has sheltered them from nearly all negative environmental influences, so that they have lost a lot of their natural resilience," explains Hedrich. "As soon as these elite lines come in contact with too much salt, they usually die."
Salt-tolerant plants serve as modelSo Rainer Hedrich, together with Professor Sergey Shabala (University of Tasmania), set out to develop a new strategy. The two scientists placed their bet on plants that are naturally salt-tolerant.
One such plant is quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa). It comes from the Andes, where it has been been used as food for 7,000 years. Meanwhile the seeds of this South American pseudo-cereal, which are free from gluten and rich in vitamins, have found their way to European supermarket shelves.
The plant absorbs salt from the soil and stores it in bladder-shaped cells on the surface of its leaves. This protects the salt-sensitive metabolic processes, and the plant can grow well even on saline soils.
Without bladder cells quinoa suffers from salt stressThe researchers have found a simple way of proving that it is really the bladder cells that ensure the plant's salt tolerance. "Just a few light brush strokes over a quinoa leaf cause the bladder cells to fall off," says Professor Shabala. Stripped of their salt bladders, these plants grow on non-saline soils just as well as non-brushed specimens. But an exposure to common salt stunts their growth significantly.
The round to oval bladder cells of quinoa have a diameter of almost half a millimeter. They are veritable giants in the kingdom of plants, and can usually be seen even with the naked eye. Their storage capacity is up to 1000 times higher than that of any normal cell of the leaf surface.
The price of salt disposal is sugarTo get an insight into the "operating system" of quinoa and its bladder cells, the work group of Professor Jian-Kang Zhu (University of Shanghai) has decoded the Andes cereal's DNA. Professor Hedrich's team then compared the active genes of leaves and bladder cells. The necessary bioinformatic analyses were performed by experts from the University of Shanghai and from the team of Georg Haberer from the Helmholtz Center Munich.
The result: Even without salt treatment, there are genes working in the bladder cells which are in other species only active when the plant is under stress. They include transporters carrying sodium and chloride ions into the bladder cell. A stimulation with salt triggers the activation of further genes needed to maintain the signal path for the stress hormone ABA.
Storing the salt consumes energy. This energy is generated by the bladder cells from sugar molecules which they specially import from the leaf for that purpose. The bladder cells receive the required energy from the leaf and reciprocate by absorbing the toxic salt," explains Hedrich.
Crossbreeding salt tolerance into crop plantsThe new findings have been published in the Cell Reports journal. They are to be used in the long term for the breeding of salt-tolerant plants. "The first step is made," says Professor Hedrich. "We will now use a combination of developmental genetics and the functional analysis of salt transport proteins to understand the molecular mechanisms that produces and maintains the salt tolerance in quinoa."
The JMU research team wants to learn from quinoa lines equipped with a very large or a very low number of salt bladders. It has a large pool to draw on: about 2000 wild and cultivated varieties of the plant from the Andes are known so far. The ultimate outcome of their work might be not only the breeding of quinoa varieties with an even higher salt tolerance but also the crossbreeding of salt tolerance genes into related crop plants such as sugar beets or spinach.
Changsong Zou, Aojun Chen, Lihong Xiao, Heike M Muller, Peter Ache, Georg Haberer, Meiling Zhang, Wei Jia, Ping Deng, Ru Huang, Daniel Lang, Feng Li, Dongliang Zhan, Xiangyun Wu, Hui Zhang, Jennifer Bohm, Renyi Liu, Sergey Shabala, Rainer Hedrich, Jian-Kang Zhu, Heng Zhang. A high-quality genome assembly of quinoa provides insights into the molecular basis of salt bladder-based salinity tolerance and the exceptional nutritional value. Cell Research, 2017; DOI: 10.1038/cr.2017.124
Quinoa leaf with typical salt bladders. On the right, you see the plant transporting the dissolved salts sodium and chloride first into the bladder and then in its vacuoles. The sugar carried along with them provides the necessary energy. Credit: Jennifer Böhm
October 10, 2017
Soil erosion is considered as a problem that puts the nutrition of the human population at jeopardy. One of its aspects is soil salination, which affects in particular dry regions of Earth, where farmers are forced to irrigate their fields heavily. Large quantities of the salts dissolved in the water, such as sodium and chloride, are diffused into the soil and remain there after the water has evaporated. The salt stunts the crops and can even make soils infertile in the long run.
"All approaches so far to breed salt-tolerant plants must be considered more or less as failures," says Professor Rainer Hedrich, plant scientist at the Julius-Maximilians-Universität (JMU) Würzburg in Bavaria, Germany. They all aimed at making crop plants grow on saline soils and to identify salt-tolerant breed lines in the process. But this approach cannot work.
And that is for a reason: "Our crop plants are the result of many years of breeding. During that time, man has sheltered them from nearly all negative environmental influences, so that they have lost a lot of their natural resilience," explains Hedrich. "As soon as these elite lines come in contact with too much salt, they usually die."
Salt-tolerant plants serve as model
So Rainer Hedrich, together with Professor Sergey Shabala (University of Tasmania), set out to develop a new strategy. The two scientists placed their bet on plants that are naturally salt-tolerant.
One such plant is quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa). It comes from the Andes, where it has been been used as food for 7,000 years. Meanwhile the seeds of this South American pseudo-cereal, which are free from gluten and rich in vitamins, have found their way to European supermarket shelves.
The plant absorbs salt from the soil and stores it in bladder-shaped cells on the surface of its leaves. This protects the salt-sensitive metabolic processes, and the plant can grow well even on saline soils.
Without bladder cells quinoa suffers from salt stress
The researchers have found a simple way of proving that it is really the bladder cells that ensure the plant's salt tolerance. "Just a few light brush strokes over a quinoa leaf cause the bladder cells to fall off," says Professor Shabala. Stripped of their salt bladders, these plants grow on non-saline soils just as well as non-brushed specimens. But an exposure to common salt stunts their growth significantly.
The round to oval bladder cells of quinoa have a diameter of almost half a millimeter. They are veritable giants in the kingdom of plants, and can usually be seen even with the naked eye. Their storage capacity is up to 1000 times higher than that of any normal cell of the leaf surface.
The price of salt disposal is sugar
To get an insight into the "operating system" of quinoa and its bladder cells, the work group of Professor Jian-Kang Zhu (University of Shanghai) has decoded the Andes cereal's DNA. Professor Hedrich's team then compared the active genes of leaves and bladder cells. The necessary bioinformatic analyses were performed by experts from the University of Shanghai and from the team of Georg Haberer from the Helmholtz Center Munich.
The result: Even without salt treatment, there are genes working in the bladder cells which are in other species only active when the plant is under stress. They include transporters carrying sodium and chloride ions into the bladder cell. A stimulation with salt triggers the activation of further genes needed to maintain the signal path for the stress hormone ABA.
Storing the salt consumes energy. This energy is generated by the bladder cells from sugar molecules which they specially import from the leaf for that purpose. The bladder cells receive the required energy from the leaf and reciprocate by absorbing the toxic salt," explains Hedrich.
Crossbreeding salt tolerance into crop plants
The new findings have been published in the Cell Reports journal. They are to be used in the long term for the breeding of salt-tolerant plants. "The first step is made," says Professor Hedrich. "We will now use a combination of developmental genetics and the functional analysis of salt transport proteins to understand the molecular mechanisms that produces and maintains the salt tolerance in quinoa."
The JMU research team wants to learn from quinoa lines equipped with a very large or a very low number of salt bladders. It has a large pool to draw on: about 2000 wild and cultivated varieties of the plant from the Andes are known so far. The ultimate outcome of their work might be not only the breeding of quinoa varieties with an even higher salt tolerance but also the crossbreeding of salt tolerance genes into related crop plants such as sugar beets or spinach.
Changsong Zou, Aojun Chen, Lihong Xiao, Heike M Muller, Peter Ache, Georg Haberer, Meiling Zhang, Wei Jia, Ping Deng, Ru Huang, Daniel Lang, Feng Li, Dongliang Zhan, Xiangyun Wu, Hui Zhang, Jennifer Bohm, Renyi Liu, Sergey Shabala, Rainer Hedrich, Jian-Kang Zhu, Heng Zhang. A high-quality genome assembly of quinoa provides insights into the molecular basis of salt bladder-based salinity tolerance and the exceptional nutritional value. Cell Research, 2017; DOI: 10.1038/cr.2017.124
Quinoa leaf with typical salt bladders. On the right, you see the plant transporting the dissolved salts sodium and chloride first into the bladder and then in its vacuoles. The sugar carried along with them provides the necessary energy. Credit: Jennifer Böhm
Indonesian Fishing Vessel And Crew Apprehended
10 October 2017Media release from the Australian Fisheries Management Authority and Department of Immigration and Border Protection
Maritime Border Command (MBC) together with the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) have apprehended an Indonesian fishing vessel about 190 nautical miles off the Northern Territory coast, suspected of illegally fishing inside the Australian Fishing Zone (AFZ).
MBC, a multi-agency task force within the Australian Border Force (ABF), tasked HMAS Pirie to intercept the vessel after it was spotted by an MBC Dash-8 aircraft on Saturday 7 October.
HMAS Pirie intercepted and boarded the vessel and found approximately 200kg of fish, including whole shark. Officers also found about 100kg of baitfish on board.
INDONESIAN FISHING VESSEL APPREHENDED NORTH OF DARWIN OCTOBER 2017
Two longlines, each carrying 200 hooks, were also located near where the vessel was first spotted inside the AFZ.
The five crew have been brought to Darwin for further investigation by AFMA over possible breaches of Australian fisheries laws.
MBC Commander Rear Admiral Peter Laver said the significant aerial and surface surveillance capability within the AFZ is having a noticeable impact on illegal fishing in Australian waters.
“No matter where these fishermen are from or what methods they use, if they are inside our waters we will be watching them and if they are found to be doing the wrong thing they will be intercepted and will face the full force of the law,” Rear Admiral Laver said.
“Illegal fishers risk losing their vessel and being brought to Australia to face significant fines or even jail time – it’s just not worth it.”
AFMA’s General Manager Fishing Operations Peter Venslovas said that thanks to surveillance and capacity building with our regional partners, there had been a dramatic reduction in illegal foreign fishing over the last decade. Numbers have plummeted from 367 a year to just 15 last year.
“Not only do Australian government agencies work together to combat illegal foreign fishing, but we share information and provide training to our international counterparts,” Mr Venslovas said.
“These levels of cooperation are essential if we are to continue to successfully target those seeking to plunder Australia’s marine resources.”
The Indonesian crew arrived in Darwin earlier today.
10 October 2017
Media release from the Australian Fisheries Management Authority and Department of Immigration and Border Protection
Maritime Border Command (MBC) together with the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) have apprehended an Indonesian fishing vessel about 190 nautical miles off the Northern Territory coast, suspected of illegally fishing inside the Australian Fishing Zone (AFZ).
MBC, a multi-agency task force within the Australian Border Force (ABF), tasked HMAS Pirie to intercept the vessel after it was spotted by an MBC Dash-8 aircraft on Saturday 7 October.
HMAS Pirie intercepted and boarded the vessel and found approximately 200kg of fish, including whole shark. Officers also found about 100kg of baitfish on board.
INDONESIAN FISHING VESSEL APPREHENDED NORTH OF DARWIN OCTOBER 2017
Two longlines, each carrying 200 hooks, were also located near where the vessel was first spotted inside the AFZ.
The five crew have been brought to Darwin for further investigation by AFMA over possible breaches of Australian fisheries laws.
MBC Commander Rear Admiral Peter Laver said the significant aerial and surface surveillance capability within the AFZ is having a noticeable impact on illegal fishing in Australian waters.
“No matter where these fishermen are from or what methods they use, if they are inside our waters we will be watching them and if they are found to be doing the wrong thing they will be intercepted and will face the full force of the law,” Rear Admiral Laver said.
“Illegal fishers risk losing their vessel and being brought to Australia to face significant fines or even jail time – it’s just not worth it.”
AFMA’s General Manager Fishing Operations Peter Venslovas said that thanks to surveillance and capacity building with our regional partners, there had been a dramatic reduction in illegal foreign fishing over the last decade. Numbers have plummeted from 367 a year to just 15 last year.
“Not only do Australian government agencies work together to combat illegal foreign fishing, but we share information and provide training to our international counterparts,” Mr Venslovas said.
“These levels of cooperation are essential if we are to continue to successfully target those seeking to plunder Australia’s marine resources.”
The Indonesian crew arrived in Darwin earlier today.
Aboriginal Rangers Connect Kids To Country In 360-Degree Videos
October 11, 2017: NSW OE&H
School children across NSW can climb inside the twisting branches of a giant strangler fig at Dorrigo National Park or scale the rushing waterfalls at Blue Mountains National Park with an Aboriginal ranger - without even leaving the classroom!
Aboriginal Discovery Ranger Uncle Dean Kelly at Goat Island. Photo: OEH
The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has launched seven 360-degree educational videos to encourage children to develop a deeper understanding of Aboriginal peoples' connection to Country.
WilderQuest Manager, Simon Stroud said the state-of-the-art videos were filmed at six national parks across NSW, including Sydney Harbour National Park and Coffs Coast Regional Park.
"These remarkable videos provide lifelong learning opportunities to encourage the next generation to value their local environment, shared culture and heritage," Mr Stroud said.
An Aboriginal digital agency provided Aboriginal Discovery rangers with specialist training in advanced 360-degree video and drone technology for virtual reality production.
"This new technology and skill development broadens the channels for our Aboriginal Discovery rangers to share their knowledge and allows children across the state to partake in a unique adventure," Mr Stroud said.
"Children could be learning about ancient footprints with Aunty Tanya in Mungo National Park one day, and exploring caves in the home of the Walgalu people at Kosciuszko National Park with Uncle Shane the next," said Mr Stroud.
The 360-degree educational video adventures are part of the award-winning WilderQuest Learning program, which helps teachers foster a desire to protect and appreciate national parks in children aged five to 12.
Since launching in January 2016, WilderQuest Learning has seen a phenomenal uptake with more than 1,200 schools across NSW using the innovative program.
The Aboriginal Storytelling videos can be enjoyed in the classroom on individual computers, interactive whiteboards, tablets or through VR goggles for a complete virtual reality experience.
For more information about using the 360-degree videos in the classroom head to WilderQuest Aboriginal Campfire.
To learn about other WilderQuest Learning resources, including the iPad App and desktop game, or to visit a NSW national park for a school excursion with Aboriginal Discovery rangers, go to WilderQuest Learning.
360-degree Aboriginal Storytelling was funded as part of the WilderQuest Learning grant from the NSW Environmental Trust.
Ready to begin?Visit the WilderQuest Learning digital resource and register as a teacher to start using WilderQuest Learning. You can also book a WilderQuest school excursion in a national park near you.
Embark on an adventure to learn about the living world in this part of Blue Mountains National Park - WilderQuest Learning WildThings Blue Mountains National Park. Photo: Nick Cubbin/OEH
October 11, 2017: NSW OE&H
School children across NSW can climb inside the twisting branches of a giant strangler fig at Dorrigo National Park or scale the rushing waterfalls at Blue Mountains National Park with an Aboriginal ranger - without even leaving the classroom!
Aboriginal Discovery Ranger Uncle Dean Kelly at Goat Island. Photo: OEH
The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has launched seven 360-degree educational videos to encourage children to develop a deeper understanding of Aboriginal peoples' connection to Country.
WilderQuest Manager, Simon Stroud said the state-of-the-art videos were filmed at six national parks across NSW, including Sydney Harbour National Park and Coffs Coast Regional Park.
"These remarkable videos provide lifelong learning opportunities to encourage the next generation to value their local environment, shared culture and heritage," Mr Stroud said.
An Aboriginal digital agency provided Aboriginal Discovery rangers with specialist training in advanced 360-degree video and drone technology for virtual reality production.
"This new technology and skill development broadens the channels for our Aboriginal Discovery rangers to share their knowledge and allows children across the state to partake in a unique adventure," Mr Stroud said.
"Children could be learning about ancient footprints with Aunty Tanya in Mungo National Park one day, and exploring caves in the home of the Walgalu people at Kosciuszko National Park with Uncle Shane the next," said Mr Stroud.
The 360-degree educational video adventures are part of the award-winning WilderQuest Learning program, which helps teachers foster a desire to protect and appreciate national parks in children aged five to 12.
Since launching in January 2016, WilderQuest Learning has seen a phenomenal uptake with more than 1,200 schools across NSW using the innovative program.
The Aboriginal Storytelling videos can be enjoyed in the classroom on individual computers, interactive whiteboards, tablets or through VR goggles for a complete virtual reality experience.
For more information about using the 360-degree videos in the classroom head to WilderQuest Aboriginal Campfire.
To learn about other WilderQuest Learning resources, including the iPad App and desktop game, or to visit a NSW national park for a school excursion with Aboriginal Discovery rangers, go to WilderQuest Learning.
360-degree Aboriginal Storytelling was funded as part of the WilderQuest Learning grant from the NSW Environmental Trust.
Ready to begin?
Visit the WilderQuest Learning digital resource and register as a teacher to start using WilderQuest Learning. You can also book a WilderQuest school excursion in a national park near you.
Embark on an adventure to learn about the living world in this part of Blue Mountains National Park - WilderQuest Learning WildThings Blue Mountains National Park. Photo: Nick Cubbin/OEH
2017 WOMEN'S QUALIFYING SERIES SET FOR MASSIVE FINALE AT PORT STEPHENS TOYOTA NSW PRO.
SYDNEY -Thursday, 12 October 2017From Surfing NSWAfter a gruelling year battling it out around the world, the World Surf League (WSL) Women’s Qualifying Series (QS) will culminate at Birubi Beach at the 2017 Port Stephens Toyota NSW Pro. With 6000 points up for grabs, some of the world’s best female surfers will be on hand trying to consolidate themselves a spot on the 2018 elite Championship Tour (CT). Novocastrian, Philippa Anderson has been competing on the QS for a number of years now, with the dream of elevating herself to the CT. In 2016, this dream almost became reality, with Anderson only narrowly missing the qualification cut off. The stylish natural footer’s best result of 2016, came at the final QS6,000 of the year. In 2017, Anderson approaches the final event in a similar position and is hoping to go one better and take the win on home soil to achieve her lifelong goal of competing on the ‘Dream Tour.’ “This is the last QS6,000 event of the year so it is super important,” Anderson said. “There are only six events of this size in the season so a solid result at a couple of them is essential. There are a handful of girls all needing a big result here, so it is sure to be exciting. Having the final event of the year in Australia is great, but the fact that it is so close to my home is amazing. I surf at Birubi a bit and it can get really good. It’s a great setup for a contest and it will be awesome to see the world’s best out there. I’m really glad this event has come together and can’t wait for it to get underway.”
After successfully running the final Women’s QS6,000 event of the 2016 season at Cronulla, it was an obvious decision to keep the event based in New South Wales. Collaborating with WSL, Destination NSW and Port Stephens Council was Luke Madden and the Surfing NSW team who knew the Birubi Beach at Port Stephens would be the ideal location to decide the qualifiers for the 2018 CT. “The Toyota Port Stephens NSW Pro has been a successful collaborative effort between Surfing NSW, WSL, Destination NSW and Port Stephens Council and we couldn’t be more proud to see it kick off its maiden year in 2017. To have the world’s best female surfers in Port Stephens as they attempt to cement their position on the 2018 World Championship Tour is the perfect way to finish the Qualifying Series year and we couldn’t be more excited for it to all kickoff.” Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter, Scot MacDonald MLC said the Port Stephens NSW Pro is a major international event that will see competitors from all over the world travel to the region. “Port Stephens is one of the most famed surf spots in Australia and I am looking forward to welcoming some of the world’s best surfers to our stunning region in just a few weeks,” Mr MacDonald said. “The Port Stephens NSW Pro women’s field alone has 114 competitors and as the last major point-scoring opportunity of the year, will play a major role in determining who qualifies for the 2018 World Surf League (WSL) Women’s Championship Tour.” NSW Minister for Tourism and Major Events Adam Marshall said with so many international surfers visiting the region, the event will provide a significant boost for local businesses, hotels, restaurants and tourism operators. “The Port Stephens NSW Pro will be huge, with more than 1,000 surfers and visitors expected to travel to the region, injecting around $910,000 into the local visitor economy over the next two years,” Mr Marshall said. “This event is a key component of a packed events calendar for the Hunter region, which this year has included the WSL sanctioned Australian Boardriders Battle, Matildas vs Brazil international football friendly and the upcoming Newcastle 500 just to name a few.” WSL Australia / Oceania Regional Manager Will Hayden-Smith is excited to see what the new location has to offer for the most important event of the Women’s QS season. "This is the most important women's QS of the season as it decides who will be on the 2018 Championship Tour. WSL would like to pass on a huge thank you to our event partners Destination NSW, Port Stephens Toyota, Port Stephens Council and Surfing NSW for helping us pull this together. We look forward to showing the world what Port Stephens has to offer." Janelle Gardner, Tourism Development and Event Coordinator for Port Stephens Council is thrilled that the surfing worlds eyes will be on the beautiful Birubi Beach and its surroundings. "Port Stephens Council is very excited to be hosting this prestigious event. The Port Stephens Toyota NSW Pro provides a fantastic opportunity to promote Port Stephens, our beautiful beaches, National Parks and the amazing Worimi Conservation Lands to surfers and surfing fans from around the world. Port Stephens Council looks forward to working with the WSL and Surfing NSW to ensure the 2017 Port Stephens Pro is a great success and continues in Port Stephens for many years to come.” The 2017 Port Stephens Toyota NSW Pro will run from November 2 – 5. For more information on the event and to watch it live, head towww.worldsurfleague.com or check out the WSL App.
Picture - Novocastrian, Philippa Anderson (Merewether, NSW) has been competing on the QS for a number of years now, with the dream of elevating herself to the CT. Photo by Ethan Smith / Surfing NSW.
SYDNEY -Thursday, 12 October 2017
From Surfing NSW
After a gruelling year battling it out around the world, the World Surf League (WSL) Women’s Qualifying Series (QS) will culminate at Birubi Beach at the 2017 Port Stephens Toyota NSW Pro. With 6000 points up for grabs, some of the world’s best female surfers will be on hand trying to consolidate themselves a spot on the 2018 elite Championship Tour (CT).
Novocastrian, Philippa Anderson has been competing on the QS for a number of years now, with the dream of elevating herself to the CT. In 2016, this dream almost became reality, with Anderson only narrowly missing the qualification cut off. The stylish natural footer’s best result of 2016, came at the final QS6,000 of the year. In 2017, Anderson approaches the final event in a similar position and is hoping to go one better and take the win on home soil to achieve her lifelong goal of competing on the ‘Dream Tour.’
“This is the last QS6,000 event of the year so it is super important,” Anderson said. “There are only six events of this size in the season so a solid result at a couple of them is essential. There are a handful of girls all needing a big result here, so it is sure to be exciting. Having the final event of the year in Australia is great, but the fact that it is so close to my home is amazing. I surf at Birubi a bit and it can get really good. It’s a great setup for a contest and it will be awesome to see the world’s best out there. I’m really glad this event has come together and can’t wait for it to get underway.”
After successfully running the final Women’s QS6,000 event of the 2016 season at Cronulla, it was an obvious decision to keep the event based in New South Wales. Collaborating with WSL, Destination NSW and Port Stephens Council was Luke Madden and the Surfing NSW team who knew the Birubi Beach at Port Stephens would be the ideal location to decide the qualifiers for the 2018 CT.
“The Toyota Port Stephens NSW Pro has been a successful collaborative effort between Surfing NSW, WSL, Destination NSW and Port Stephens Council and we couldn’t be more proud to see it kick off its maiden year in 2017. To have the world’s best female surfers in Port Stephens as they attempt to cement their position on the 2018 World Championship Tour is the perfect way to finish the Qualifying Series year and we couldn’t be more excited for it to all kickoff.”
Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter, Scot MacDonald MLC said the Port Stephens NSW Pro is a major international event that will see competitors from all over the world travel to the region.
“Port Stephens is one of the most famed surf spots in Australia and I am looking forward to welcoming some of the world’s best surfers to our stunning region in just a few weeks,” Mr MacDonald said. “The Port Stephens NSW Pro women’s field alone has 114 competitors and as the last major point-scoring opportunity of the year, will play a major role in determining who qualifies for the 2018 World Surf League (WSL) Women’s Championship Tour.”
NSW Minister for Tourism and Major Events Adam Marshall said with so many international surfers visiting the region, the event will provide a significant boost for local businesses, hotels, restaurants and tourism operators.
“The Port Stephens NSW Pro will be huge, with more than 1,000 surfers and visitors expected to travel to the region, injecting around $910,000 into the local visitor economy over the next two years,” Mr Marshall said. “This event is a key component of a packed events calendar for the Hunter region, which this year has included the WSL sanctioned Australian Boardriders Battle, Matildas vs Brazil international football friendly and the upcoming Newcastle 500 just to name a few.”
WSL Australia / Oceania Regional Manager Will Hayden-Smith is excited to see what the new location has to offer for the most important event of the Women’s QS season.
"This is the most important women's QS of the season as it decides who will be on the 2018 Championship Tour. WSL would like to pass on a huge thank you to our event partners Destination NSW, Port Stephens Toyota, Port Stephens Council and Surfing NSW for helping us pull this together. We look forward to showing the world what Port Stephens has to offer."
Janelle Gardner, Tourism Development and Event Coordinator for Port Stephens Council is thrilled that the surfing worlds eyes will be on the beautiful Birubi Beach and its surroundings.
"Port Stephens Council is very excited to be hosting this prestigious event. The Port Stephens Toyota NSW Pro provides a fantastic opportunity to promote Port Stephens, our beautiful beaches, National Parks and the amazing Worimi Conservation Lands to surfers and surfing fans from around the world. Port Stephens Council looks forward to working with the WSL and Surfing NSW to ensure the 2017 Port Stephens Pro is a great success and continues in Port Stephens for many years to come.”
The 2017 Port Stephens Toyota NSW Pro will run from November 2 – 5. For more information on the event and to watch it live, head towww.worldsurfleague.com or check out the WSL App.
Picture - Novocastrian, Philippa Anderson (Merewether, NSW) has been competing on the QS for a number of years now, with the dream of elevating herself to the CT. Photo by Ethan Smith / Surfing NSW.
It’s Magpie Swooping Season
by BirdLife AustraliaIt’s that time of year again. As the days gradually begin to grow longer and the weather warms up, many birds begin to build their nests and lay their eggs. Their number includes Australian Magpies.
Because magpies are one of the most common birds in built-up areas, as well as in rural environments, they often come into contact with us. For most of the year, people are happy to interact with magpies, but with the arrival of the breeding season, the situation’s not always so happy.
Magpie breeding season is dreaded by many people because of the perception that at this time of year the birds relentlessly swoop at people, both on foot or riding bicycles, as well as dogs and anything else that moves.
Though wide-held, this perception is not altogether accurate.
Although it’s true that spring is magpie swooping season, it should be noted that not all magpies swoop at people. In fact, it is generally quite a small proportion of them that are aggressive towards humans. Most of the birds that attack are males, though, indeed, most male magpies don’t attack, and those that do usually only become aggressive when people venture too close to the nest tree.
Although the timing of swooping behaviour varies between the different regions of Australia, most swooping activity occurs in mid- to late spring, during the brief period when there are magpie chicks in the nest, with the intensity of attacks increasing gradually as the nestlings grow. Few magpies attack before their eggs have hatched, and the attacks usually drop off after the chicks have fledged (left the nest). It’s a brief window, but one that can be traumatic for people being swooped.
There are a few things you can do to prevent being swooped, but nothing is guaranteed to work.- The most sensible method is to avoid walking or riding near trees where magpies are nesting.
- If you can’t avoid the area, try wearing a hat or carrying an umbrella for protection; cyclists can attach a forest of cable-ties to their helmets.
- Attach eye spots to the back of your hat.
- Wave a stick above your head as you walk past.
- Keep an eye on the bird; he’s much less likely to attack if he knows he’s been sussed.
- Above all, don’t harass the birds. Though tempting, it will only make them more aggressive. And remember, harming magpies is against the law.
For more information, see Magpie Alert, by Darryl Jones (UNSW Press, Sydney).
by BirdLife Australia
It’s that time of year again. As the days gradually begin to grow longer and the weather warms up, many birds begin to build their nests and lay their eggs. Their number includes Australian Magpies.
Because magpies are one of the most common birds in built-up areas, as well as in rural environments, they often come into contact with us. For most of the year, people are happy to interact with magpies, but with the arrival of the breeding season, the situation’s not always so happy.
Magpie breeding season is dreaded by many people because of the perception that at this time of year the birds relentlessly swoop at people, both on foot or riding bicycles, as well as dogs and anything else that moves.
Though wide-held, this perception is not altogether accurate.
Although it’s true that spring is magpie swooping season, it should be noted that not all magpies swoop at people. In fact, it is generally quite a small proportion of them that are aggressive towards humans. Most of the birds that attack are males, though, indeed, most male magpies don’t attack, and those that do usually only become aggressive when people venture too close to the nest tree.
Although the timing of swooping behaviour varies between the different regions of Australia, most swooping activity occurs in mid- to late spring, during the brief period when there are magpie chicks in the nest, with the intensity of attacks increasing gradually as the nestlings grow. Few magpies attack before their eggs have hatched, and the attacks usually drop off after the chicks have fledged (left the nest). It’s a brief window, but one that can be traumatic for people being swooped.
There are a few things you can do to prevent being swooped, but nothing is guaranteed to work.
- The most sensible method is to avoid walking or riding near trees where magpies are nesting.
- If you can’t avoid the area, try wearing a hat or carrying an umbrella for protection; cyclists can attach a forest of cable-ties to their helmets.
- Attach eye spots to the back of your hat.
- Wave a stick above your head as you walk past.
- Keep an eye on the bird; he’s much less likely to attack if he knows he’s been sussed.
- Above all, don’t harass the birds. Though tempting, it will only make them more aggressive. And remember, harming magpies is against the law.
For more information, see Magpie Alert, by Darryl Jones (UNSW Press, Sydney).
Avalon Boomerang Bags: An Idea That's Spreading To Stop Plastic Bag Use
Avalon Boomerang Bags
Tuesdays
11am-5pm @ sewcraft cook Unit 20/14 Polo Ave Mona Vale
Boomerang Bags is a bag-share initiative involving the installation of a number of ‘Boomerang Bag’ boxes throughout any given business district, shopping centre, street or market. Each box is stocked with re-useable bags for customers to borrow if they have forgotten to bring their own.
Unlike the traditional purchase-and-keep approach, Boomerang Bags are free, and local community members are responsible for returning the bags once they’re no longer required. The availability of free re-useable bags reduces the reliance of local businesses to supply bags to all customers, and encourages a mentality of re-use among local communities, thereby reducing the amount of plastic bag material entering our landfills and waterways.
So who makes the Boomerang Bags? Well, you do! Boomerang Bags are made by local communities for local communities, and are sewn from recycled and donated materials.
Get in touch if you'd like to donate materials, join us making bags, or implement Boomerang Bags in your own local area!
Tuesdays
11am-5pm @ sewcraft cook
Unit 20/14 Polo Ave Mona Vale
Boomerang Bags is a bag-share initiative involving the installation of a number of ‘Boomerang Bag’ boxes throughout any given business district, shopping centre, street or market. Each box is stocked with re-useable bags for customers to borrow if they have forgotten to bring their own.
Unlike the traditional purchase-and-keep approach, Boomerang Bags are free, and local community members are responsible for returning the bags once they’re no longer required. The availability of free re-useable bags reduces the reliance of local businesses to supply bags to all customers, and encourages a mentality of re-use among local communities, thereby reducing the amount of plastic bag material entering our landfills and waterways.
So who makes the Boomerang Bags? Well, you do! Boomerang Bags are made by local communities for local communities, and are sewn from recycled and donated materials.
Get in touch if you'd like to donate materials, join us making bags, or implement Boomerang Bags in your own local area!
Kooragang Liquefied Petroleum Gas Storage Facility
Buildings And Precincts To Go Carbon Neutral
$3 Million In Grants Now Available For Commuity Recycling Centres
Asparagus Fern
Navigation Warning - NSW Coastal Waters: Whale Migration Season
Energy Locals For 100% Carbon Neutral Plans
From Surf Life Saving NSW Interested in 100% carbon neutral plans, huge solar feed in tariffs and Australian owned and operated in your energy provider? Look no further than SLSNSW's newest partner Energy Locals to see how they will revolutionise your energy plan: energylocals.com.au/providers/slsnsw
From Surf Life Saving NSW
Interested in 100% carbon neutral plans, huge solar feed in tariffs and Australian owned and operated in your energy provider? Look no further than SLSNSW's newest partner Energy Locals to see how they will revolutionise your energy plan: energylocals.com.au/providers/slsnsw
Myna Action Group
Pittwater Natural Heritage Association (PNHA)
Indian Mynas - what a pest - like flying rats. Contact us on pnhainfo@gmail.com for more information and have a look athttps://www.facebook.com/MynaProblems/
Indian Mynas are displacing our native birds. They often nest in and around shops where their food source is. I took this one down this morning in Avalon (no chicks or eggs but I disturbed the female). There were literally hundreds of tiny bits of plastic in the nest which makes you think that all this plastic would be swilling down the stormwater drains into the sea.
Pittwater Natural Heritage Association (PNHA)
Indian Mynas - what a pest - like flying rats.
Contact us on pnhainfo@gmail.com for more information and have a look athttps://www.facebook.com/MynaProblems/
Indian Mynas are displacing our native birds. They often nest in and around shops where their food source is. I took this one down this morning in Avalon (no chicks or eggs but I disturbed the female). There were literally hundreds of tiny bits of plastic in the nest which makes you think that all this plastic would be swilling down the stormwater drains into the sea.
Living Ocean
Website: www.livingocean.org.au
Living Ocean was born in Whale Beach, on the Northern Beaches of Sydney, surrounded by water and set in an area of incredible beauty.Living Ocean is a charity that promotes the awareness of human impact on the ocean, through research, education, creative activity in the community, and support of others who sustain ocean health and integrity.
And always celebrating and honouring the natural environment and the lifestyle that the ocean offers us.
Our whale research program builds on research that has been conducted off our coastline by our experts over many years and our Centre for Marine Studies enables students and others to become directly involved.
Through partnerships with individuals and organizations, we conceive, create and coordinate campaigns that educate all layers of our community – from our ‘No Plastic Please’ campaign, which is delivered in partnership with local schools, to film nights and lectures, aimed at the wider community.
Additionally, we raise funds for ocean-oriented conservation groups such as Sea Shepherd.
Donations are tax-deductable Wildlife Carers and Organisations in Pittwater:
Sydney Wildlife rescues, rehabilitates and releases sick, injured and orphaned native wildlife. From penguins, to possums and parrots, native wildlife of all descriptions passes through the caring hands of Sydney Wildlife rescuers and carers on a daily basis. We provide a genuine 24 hour, 7 day per week emergency advice, rescue and care service.
As well as caring for sick, injured and orphaned native wildlife, Sydney Wildlife is also involved in educating the community about native wildlife and its habitat. We provide educational talks to a wide range of groups and audiences including kindergartens, scouts, guides, a wide range of special interest groups and retirement villages. Talks are tailored to meet the needs and requirements of each group.
Found an injured native animal? We're here to help.
Keep the animal contained, warm, quiet and undisturbed. Do not offer any food or water. Call Sydney Wildlife immediately on 9413 4300, or take the animal to your nearest vet. Generally there is no charge. Find out more at: www.sydneywildlife.org.au
Southern Cross Wildlife Care was launched over 6 years ago. It is the brainchild of Dr Howard Ralph, the founder and chief veterinarian. SCWC was established solely for the purpose of treating injured, sick and orphaned wildlife. No wild creature in need that passes through our doors is ever rejected.
People can assist SCWC by volunteering their skills ie: veterinary; medical; experienced wildlife carers; fundraising; "IT" skills; media; admin; website etc. We are always having to address the issue of finances as we are a non commercial veterinary service for wildlife in need, who obviously don't have cheque books in their pouches. It is a constant concern and struggle of ours when we are pre-occupied with the care and treatment of the escalating amount of wildlife that we have to deal with. Just becoming a member of SCWC for $45 a year would be a great help. Regular monthly donations however small, would be a wonderful gift and we could plan ahead knowing that we had x amount of funds that we could count on. Our small team of volunteers are all unpaid even our amazing vet Howard, so all funds raised go directly towards our precious wildlife. SCWC is TAX DEDUCTIBLE.
Find out more at: southerncrosswildlifecare.org.au/wp/
Website: www.livingocean.org.au
Living Ocean was born in Whale Beach, on the Northern Beaches of Sydney, surrounded by water and set in an area of incredible beauty.Living Ocean is a charity that promotes the awareness of human impact on the ocean, through research, education, creative activity in the community, and support of others who sustain ocean health and integrity.
And always celebrating and honouring the natural environment and the lifestyle that the ocean offers us.
Our whale research program builds on research that has been conducted off our coastline by our experts over many years and our Centre for Marine Studies enables students and others to become directly involved.
Through partnerships with individuals and organizations, we conceive, create and coordinate campaigns that educate all layers of our community – from our ‘No Plastic Please’ campaign, which is delivered in partnership with local schools, to film nights and lectures, aimed at the wider community.
Additionally, we raise funds for ocean-oriented conservation groups such as Sea Shepherd.
Donations are tax-deductable
Wildlife Carers and Organisations in Pittwater:
Sydney Wildlife rescues, rehabilitates and releases sick, injured and orphaned native wildlife. From penguins, to possums and parrots, native wildlife of all descriptions passes through the caring hands of Sydney Wildlife rescuers and carers on a daily basis. We provide a genuine 24 hour, 7 day per week emergency advice, rescue and care service.
As well as caring for sick, injured and orphaned native wildlife, Sydney Wildlife is also involved in educating the community about native wildlife and its habitat. We provide educational talks to a wide range of groups and audiences including kindergartens, scouts, guides, a wide range of special interest groups and retirement villages. Talks are tailored to meet the needs and requirements of each group.
Found an injured native animal? We're here to help.
Keep the animal contained, warm, quiet and undisturbed. Do not offer any food or water. Call Sydney Wildlife immediately on 9413 4300, or take the animal to your nearest vet. Generally there is no charge. Find out more at: www.sydneywildlife.org.au
Southern Cross Wildlife Care was launched over 6 years ago. It is the brainchild of Dr Howard Ralph, the founder and chief veterinarian. SCWC was established solely for the purpose of treating injured, sick and orphaned wildlife. No wild creature in need that passes through our doors is ever rejected.
People can assist SCWC by volunteering their skills ie: veterinary; medical; experienced wildlife carers; fundraising; "IT" skills; media; admin; website etc. We are always having to address the issue of finances as we are a non commercial veterinary service for wildlife in need, who obviously don't have cheque books in their pouches. It is a constant concern and struggle of ours when we are pre-occupied with the care and treatment of the escalating amount of wildlife that we have to deal with. Just becoming a member of SCWC for $45 a year would be a great help. Regular monthly donations however small, would be a wonderful gift and we could plan ahead knowing that we had x amount of funds that we could count on. Our small team of volunteers are all unpaid even our amazing vet Howard, so all funds raised go directly towards our precious wildlife. SCWC is TAX DEDUCTIBLE.
Find out more at: southerncrosswildlifecare.org.au/wp/
Major Reforms To Make Private Health Insurance Simpler And More Affordable
October 13, 2017: Media Release - The Hon Greg Hunt MP, Minister for Health
The Australian Government has announced a wide ranging package of reforms to make private health insurance simpler and more affordable for Australians.
We know that every dollar matters to Australian families and these reforms will get better value for families and make policies easier to understand.
Private health insurance is an essential and valuable part of the Australia’s health system.
We are encouraging younger Australians to take up private health insurance by allowing insurers to discount hospital insurance premiums for 18 to 29 year olds by up to 10 per cent. The discount will phase out after people turn 40.
People with hospital insurance that does not offer full cover for mental health treatment will be able to upgrade their cover and access mental health services without a waiting period on a once-off basis. This will significantly enhance the value of private health insurance for young people.
To support Australians in regional and rural areas, insurers will be able to offer travel and accommodation benefits for people in regional and rural areas that need to travel for treatment.
We’re helping to reduce rising costs for health insurers – which would otherwise be passed on through higher premiums.
To achieve this, we have entered into an agreement with the Medical Technology Association of Australia to lower the price of implanted medical devices from 1 February next year. This will have immediate benefits for consumers in the form of lower premiums from April.
We know that many people would like to be able to select a higher excess in exchange for lower premiums.
That’s why we will increase the maximum excess consumers can choose under their health insurance policies for the first time since 2001. This will allow many consumers to reduce their premium increase in 2019.
And we know that many people find private health insurance confusing. We will act to simplify private health insurance by requiring insurers to categorise products as gold/silver/bronze/basic, and use standardised definitions for treatments to make it clear what is and isn’t covered in their policies.
The privatehealth.gov.au website will be upgraded to make it easier to compare insurance products, and insurers will be able to provide personalised information to consumers on their product every year.
We’re also boosting the powers of the Private Health Insurance Ombudsman and increasing its resources to ensure consumer complaints are resolved clearly and quickly.
After consultation with the private health insurance and medical sector, the Government has agreed to stop insurers from offering benefits for a range of natural therapies, such as Bowen therapy or Rolfing.
The Turnbull Government is committed to private health insurance and we’re committed to supporting the more than 13 million Australians that have taken out cover.
We are investing around $6 billion every year in the private health insurance rebate to help keep premiums affordable.
By contrast, Labor hates private health insurance and has already confirmed that they will cut the rebate. This will hurt millions of Australian families.
In Government, Labor cut $4 billion from the private health insurance rebate and means tested it. And now they’ve confirmed they want to do it again.
The Turnbull Government is committed to improving private health insurance into the future, and our reform work will continue.
The Private Health Ministerial Advisory Committee will continue to examine issues such as risk equalisation, and we will work with the medical profession on options to improve the transparency of medical out-of-pocket costs.
Committees will be established to review funding methodologies for rehabilitation care and day-only mental health care to ensure that insurers fund the most efficient models of care.
The second tier default benefit, providing a safety net for consumers attending non-contracted hospitals, will continue, but the administration of eligibility will be transferred to the Department of Health.
Australia’s health system is one of the best in the world where every Australian has access to the best doctors, nurses, hospitals and medicines.
It is essential for the health of our nation that we continue to maintain a strong and competitive private health insurance market and I believe these reforms will do just that.