Avalon Boomerang Bags Update: May 2018
Geological And Bioregional Assessment Of Beetaloo Sub-Basin
Nominations Open For 2018 NSW Green Globe Awards
Microbeads Successfully Phasing Out In Cosmetics And Personal Care Products
Please Help: Contribute To Significant Trees Register For Our Area
Significant trees listings wanted
Avalon Preservation AssociationThe next step in the Avalon Preservation Association's Avalon Cultural Audit is to identify and list significant trees in the area.
Roger Sayers has nominated the Spotted Gums in the reserve opposite Careel Bay Wharf.
Please help us by contributing your pick of significant trees in the area so we can map them and enter into our database.
You can either post a picture/s on the APA Facebook page and identify location of tree/s and species type if known or email us with same at secretary@avalonpreservationassociation.org.au
Our new Avalon Preservation Association Noticeboard is finally installed on corner of Belle Property Building near Herforts Chemist Old Barrenjoey Rd Avalon Beach. Many thanks to Mark Griffin Belle Property for use of wall and Robert Adema for installation.
Significant trees listings wanted
Avalon Preservation Association
The next step in the Avalon Preservation Association's Avalon Cultural Audit is to identify and list significant trees in the area.
Roger Sayers has nominated the Spotted Gums in the reserve opposite Careel Bay Wharf.
Please help us by contributing your pick of significant trees in the area so we can map them and enter into our database.
You can either post a picture/s on the APA Facebook page and identify location of tree/s and species type if known or email us with same at secretary@avalonpreservationassociation.org.au
Our new Avalon Preservation Association Noticeboard is finally installed on corner of Belle Property Building near Herforts Chemist Old Barrenjoey Rd Avalon Beach. Many thanks to Mark Griffin Belle Property for use of wall and Robert Adema for installation.
Permaculture Northern Beaches 2018 Events
Manly • Warringah • Pittwater | Sydney
Permaculture Northern Beaches (PNB) is an active local group based on Sydney's Northern Beaches. Our parent body is Permaculture Sydney North.
PNB hold monthly permaculture related events on the 4th Thursday of each month at 7:15pm at the Nelson Heather Community Centre, Banksia Room, 5 Jacksons Rd, Warriewood
SMALL SPACE GARDENING WORKSHOP
Saturday, May 12, 2018: 10:00am – 1:00pm
BIG IDEAS FOR SMALL SPACESThere are many scenarios where garden space is minimal including rental properties; apartments with balconies; townhouses with small courtyards; retirement homes; caravan parks; community garden allotments and many suburban blocks.
This workshop on small space gardening is to help you make the most of the space you have. You will learn techniques such as stacking, hanging pots, lattices, using narrow niches and wall and fence spaces, portable grow bags, clever plant choices such as dwarf varieties and low maintenance plants that take up minimum space with a high yield.
Design your garden to optimise your space. Join Angela Penn, kitchen garden teacher at Manly West Primary School; and science teacher for this workshop at Manly Vale Community Garden.
Organised by PNB in cooperation with Backyard in a Box. Bookings are essential inquiries: kiri@backyardinabox.com.au
Manly • Warringah • Pittwater | SydneyPermaculture Northern Beaches (PNB) is an active local group based on Sydney's Northern Beaches. Our parent body is Permaculture Sydney North.
PNB hold monthly permaculture related events on the 4th Thursday of each month at 7:15pm at the Nelson Heather Community Centre, Banksia Room, 5 Jacksons Rd, Warriewood
SMALL SPACE GARDENING WORKSHOP
Saturday, May 12, 2018: 10:00am – 1:00pm
BIG IDEAS FOR SMALL SPACES
There are many scenarios where garden space is minimal including rental properties; apartments with balconies; townhouses with small courtyards; retirement homes; caravan parks; community garden allotments and many suburban blocks.
This workshop on small space gardening is to help you make the most of the space you have. You will learn techniques such as stacking, hanging pots, lattices, using narrow niches and wall and fence spaces, portable grow bags, clever plant choices such as dwarf varieties and low maintenance plants that take up minimum space with a high yield.
Design your garden to optimise your space. Join Angela Penn, kitchen garden teacher at Manly West Primary School; and science teacher for this workshop at Manly Vale Community Garden.
Organised by PNB in cooperation with Backyard in a Box. Bookings are essential inquiries: kiri@backyardinabox.com.au
World Environment Day 2018 - Beat Plastic Pollution: If You Can’t Reuse It, Refuse It
Newcastle Region - Vital Places For Australian Birds
Wetland Nightlife Walk
Draft Plans Of Management For NSW Reserves, State And National Parks: Have Your Say
Woolworths To End Single Use Plastic Bags From June 20th, 2018
Woolworths: We've set the date for the end of single-use plastic bags.
The removal of single-use plastic bags has been a really important topic for our customers and our team. Which is why, Woolworths committed to phase out all single-use plastic bags at our checkouts nationally.
After listening to our customers and working with our teams, we're proud to announce that from the 20th of June 2018 all Woolworths stores will be single-use plastic bag free. We are committed to playing our part in reducing plastic usage and believe that this is the right thing to do for our environment.
This means that we, from the 20th of June, will no longer provide ‘free’ plastic bags at our checkouts in store. We've always encouraged the use of reusable bags and with this change it's now more important than ever for customers to bring in their own bags from home or pick up one of our reusable bags in store.
The Woolworths team continues to work hard to reduce our impact on the environment by supporting the reduction and recycling of plastics throughout our stores. Other initiatives include reducing the amount of plastic packaging on fruits and vegetables; introducing the new Australasian Recycling Label to help educate our customers on what can be recycled and where, as well as the expansion of our soft plastic recycling program.
Photo - Notice at Woolworths checkouts, Avalon Beach - A J Guesdon, May 2018
Woolworths: We've set the date for the end of single-use plastic bags.
The removal of single-use plastic bags has been a really important topic for our customers and our team. Which is why, Woolworths committed to phase out all single-use plastic bags at our checkouts nationally.
After listening to our customers and working with our teams, we're proud to announce that from the 20th of June 2018 all Woolworths stores will be single-use plastic bag free. We are committed to playing our part in reducing plastic usage and believe that this is the right thing to do for our environment.
This means that we, from the 20th of June, will no longer provide ‘free’ plastic bags at our checkouts in store. We've always encouraged the use of reusable bags and with this change it's now more important than ever for customers to bring in their own bags from home or pick up one of our reusable bags in store.
The Woolworths team continues to work hard to reduce our impact on the environment by supporting the reduction and recycling of plastics throughout our stores. Other initiatives include reducing the amount of plastic packaging on fruits and vegetables; introducing the new Australasian Recycling Label to help educate our customers on what can be recycled and where, as well as the expansion of our soft plastic recycling program.
Photo - Notice at Woolworths checkouts, Avalon Beach - A J Guesdon, May 2018
Student's Shrimp Bioplastic A Big Splash In USA
May 4, 2018: CSIROWhen 15-year-old Sydney Girls High School student Angelina Arora started investigating bioplastics almost two years ago, she never imagined her investigations would earn her world-wide attention.
Now, Angelina and her shrimp bioplastic will be representing Australia at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania alongside over 1,800 high school students from 75 countries, regions, and territories.
After becoming a finalist in the 2017 BHP Billiton Foundation Science and Engineering Awards for her research into the commercial viability of bioplastics, she decided to refine her research and worked with a CSIRO mentor to develop a completely biodegradable plastic made from prawn shell and sticky protein from the silk of silkworms.
It was this research that won her the Innovator to Market Award in the 2018 BHP Billiton Foundation Science and Engineering Awards, a partnership between the BHP Billiton Foundation, CSIRO and the Australian Science Teachers Association.
Angelina said her project was inspired by being asked to pay for a plastic bag at a shop which prompted her to think of a way people could still have the convenience of plastic, without the harmful environmental effects.
"I'm driven by wanting to help – whether it's people, the environment or animals. It was amazing after months of research that I found a plastic that was suitable," she said.
"I was always a curious child asking why things work and this developed into a love of science. I believe science is the key to all the worlds' mysteries.
"I couldn't imagine a future where it isn't part of my life. I think I'd like to go into medicine as it is all about helping people."
Angelina will be in good company at ISEF with 2018 BHP Billiton Foundation Science and Engineering Awards student finalists Caitlin Roberts, Kavinya Welikala, Ella Cuthbert, Cassandra Dods, Ashley Cain and teacher winner Adele Hudson also representing Australia at the fair.
All of their projects will be on show at the competition.
CSIRO Education and Outreach Director Mary Mulcahy said showcasing Australia's brilliant science, technology, engineering and mathematics projects on the world stage was a key part in enabling Australia to adapt for a rapidly changing future.
"The world is changing faster than many of us can keep up with, but science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) can guide that future through innovation," Ms Mulcahy said.
"These students are showing on a world stage that Australian students are prepared more than ever for the future."
The Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (Intel ISEF), a program of Society for Science & the Public is the world's largest international pre-college science competition. Each year over 1800 high school students from more than 75 countries, regions, and territories are awarded the opportunity to showcase their independent research and compete for on average $4 million in prizes. The BHP Billiton Foundation and Intel Foundation provide support for the BHP Billiton Foundation Science and Engineering Awards Australian delegation attending the fair.
Angelina Arora winner of the Innovator to Market award.
May 4, 2018: CSIRO
When 15-year-old Sydney Girls High School student Angelina Arora started investigating bioplastics almost two years ago, she never imagined her investigations would earn her world-wide attention.
Now, Angelina and her shrimp bioplastic will be representing Australia at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania alongside over 1,800 high school students from 75 countries, regions, and territories.
After becoming a finalist in the 2017 BHP Billiton Foundation Science and Engineering Awards for her research into the commercial viability of bioplastics, she decided to refine her research and worked with a CSIRO mentor to develop a completely biodegradable plastic made from prawn shell and sticky protein from the silk of silkworms.
It was this research that won her the Innovator to Market Award in the 2018 BHP Billiton Foundation Science and Engineering Awards, a partnership between the BHP Billiton Foundation, CSIRO and the Australian Science Teachers Association.
Angelina said her project was inspired by being asked to pay for a plastic bag at a shop which prompted her to think of a way people could still have the convenience of plastic, without the harmful environmental effects.
"I'm driven by wanting to help – whether it's people, the environment or animals. It was amazing after months of research that I found a plastic that was suitable," she said.
"I was always a curious child asking why things work and this developed into a love of science. I believe science is the key to all the worlds' mysteries.
"I couldn't imagine a future where it isn't part of my life. I think I'd like to go into medicine as it is all about helping people."
Angelina will be in good company at ISEF with 2018 BHP Billiton Foundation Science and Engineering Awards student finalists Caitlin Roberts, Kavinya Welikala, Ella Cuthbert, Cassandra Dods, Ashley Cain and teacher winner Adele Hudson also representing Australia at the fair.
All of their projects will be on show at the competition.
CSIRO Education and Outreach Director Mary Mulcahy said showcasing Australia's brilliant science, technology, engineering and mathematics projects on the world stage was a key part in enabling Australia to adapt for a rapidly changing future.
"The world is changing faster than many of us can keep up with, but science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) can guide that future through innovation," Ms Mulcahy said.
"These students are showing on a world stage that Australian students are prepared more than ever for the future."
The Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (Intel ISEF), a program of Society for Science & the Public is the world's largest international pre-college science competition. Each year over 1800 high school students from more than 75 countries, regions, and territories are awarded the opportunity to showcase their independent research and compete for on average $4 million in prizes. The BHP Billiton Foundation and Intel Foundation provide support for the BHP Billiton Foundation Science and Engineering Awards Australian delegation attending the fair.
Angelina Arora winner of the Innovator to Market award.
Study Reveals New Antarctic Process Contributing To Sea Level Rise And Climate Change
April 17, 2018: University of TasmaniaA new IMAS-led study has revealed a previously undocumented process where melting glacial ice sheets change the ocean in a way that further accelerates the rate of ice melt and sea level rise.
Led by IMAS PhD student Alessandro Silvano and published in the journal Science Advances, the research found that glacial meltwater makes the ocean's surface layer less salty and more buoyant, preventing deep mixing in winter and allowing warm water at depth to retain its heat and further melt glaciers from below.
"This process is similar to what happens when you put oil and water in a container, with the oil floating on top because it's lighter and less dense," Mr Silvano said.
"The same happens near Antarctica with fresh glacial meltwater, which stays above the warmer and saltier ocean water, insulating the warm water from the cold Antarctic atmosphere and allowing it to cause further glacial melting.
"We found that in this way increased glacial meltwater can cause a positive feedback, driving further melt of ice shelves and hence an increase in sea level rise."
The study found that fresh meltwater also reduces the formation and sinking of dense water in some regions around Antarctica, slowing ocean circulation which takes up and stores heat and carbon dioxide.
"The cold glacial meltwaters flowing from the Antarctic cause a slowing of the currents which enable the ocean to draw down carbon dioxide and heat from the atmosphere.
"In combination, the two processes we identified feed off each other to further accelerate climate change."
Mr Silvano said a similar mechanism has been proposed to explain rapid sea level rise of up to five metres per century at the end of the last glacial period around 15,000 years ago.
"Our study shows that this feedback process is not only possible but is in fact already underway, and may drive further acceleration of the rate of sea level rise in the future.
"Currently the ice shelves resist the flow of ice to the ocean, acting like a buttress to hold the ice sheet on the Antarctic continent.
"Where warm ocean waters flow under the ice shelves they can drive rapid melting from below, causing ice shelves to thin or break up and reducing the buttressing effect.
"This process leads to rising sea levels as more ice flows to the ocean.
"Our results suggest that a further increase in the supply of glacial meltwater to the waters around the Antarctic shelf may trigger a transition from a cold regime to a warm regime, characterised by high rates of melting from the base of ice shelves and reduced formation of cold bottom waters that support ocean uptake of atmospheric heat and carbon dioxide," Mr Silvano said.
Alessandro Silvano, Stephen Rich Rintoul, Beatriz Peña-Molino, William Richard Hobbs, Esmee van Wijk, Shigeru Aoki, Takeshi Tamura, Guy Darvall Williams. Freshening by glacial meltwater enhances melting of ice shelves and reduces formation of Antarctic Bottom Water. Science Advances, 2018; 4 (4): eaap9467 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aap9467
This is the Mertz Glacier in January 2017. Credit: Alessandro Silvano
April 17, 2018: University of Tasmania
A new IMAS-led study has revealed a previously undocumented process where melting glacial ice sheets change the ocean in a way that further accelerates the rate of ice melt and sea level rise.
Led by IMAS PhD student Alessandro Silvano and published in the journal Science Advances, the research found that glacial meltwater makes the ocean's surface layer less salty and more buoyant, preventing deep mixing in winter and allowing warm water at depth to retain its heat and further melt glaciers from below.
"This process is similar to what happens when you put oil and water in a container, with the oil floating on top because it's lighter and less dense," Mr Silvano said.
"The same happens near Antarctica with fresh glacial meltwater, which stays above the warmer and saltier ocean water, insulating the warm water from the cold Antarctic atmosphere and allowing it to cause further glacial melting.
"We found that in this way increased glacial meltwater can cause a positive feedback, driving further melt of ice shelves and hence an increase in sea level rise."
The study found that fresh meltwater also reduces the formation and sinking of dense water in some regions around Antarctica, slowing ocean circulation which takes up and stores heat and carbon dioxide.
"The cold glacial meltwaters flowing from the Antarctic cause a slowing of the currents which enable the ocean to draw down carbon dioxide and heat from the atmosphere.
"In combination, the two processes we identified feed off each other to further accelerate climate change."
Mr Silvano said a similar mechanism has been proposed to explain rapid sea level rise of up to five metres per century at the end of the last glacial period around 15,000 years ago.
"Our study shows that this feedback process is not only possible but is in fact already underway, and may drive further acceleration of the rate of sea level rise in the future.
"Currently the ice shelves resist the flow of ice to the ocean, acting like a buttress to hold the ice sheet on the Antarctic continent.
"Where warm ocean waters flow under the ice shelves they can drive rapid melting from below, causing ice shelves to thin or break up and reducing the buttressing effect.
"This process leads to rising sea levels as more ice flows to the ocean.
"Our results suggest that a further increase in the supply of glacial meltwater to the waters around the Antarctic shelf may trigger a transition from a cold regime to a warm regime, characterised by high rates of melting from the base of ice shelves and reduced formation of cold bottom waters that support ocean uptake of atmospheric heat and carbon dioxide," Mr Silvano said.
Alessandro Silvano, Stephen Rich Rintoul, Beatriz Peña-Molino, William Richard Hobbs, Esmee van Wijk, Shigeru Aoki, Takeshi Tamura, Guy Darvall Williams. Freshening by glacial meltwater enhances melting of ice shelves and reduces formation of Antarctic Bottom Water. Science Advances, 2018; 4 (4): eaap9467 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aap9467
This is the Mertz Glacier in January 2017. Credit: Alessandro Silvano
Indigenous Artwork To Be Enshrined In Print
May 2nd, 2018: GBRMPAA local artist’s stunning acrylic on canvas piece will be showcased on the cover of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s first Reconciliation Action Plan — scheduled for release later this year.
Titled ‘Step of Change’, the work is a creation of Nicky Bidju Pryor, a Juru Traditional Owner from the Burdekin-Bowen area and a descendant of the Birrigubba and Gunggandji nations.
The artwork features traditional depictions of marine life and a symbolic ‘step forward’ set against waves of striking blues and teal.
Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority reef protection branch general manager Dr Simon Banks said the artwork was selected from a wide range of high-quality designs submitted during an Expressions of Interest callout earlier this year.
“The piece perfectly captures the meaning and importance of reconciliation and the Great Barrier Reef,” Dr Banks said. “The Reconciliation Action Plan will demonstrate our commitment to strengthening relationships, respect and opportunities for our staff that identify as First Australians, and with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.”
Mr Pryor said the Great Barrier Reef played a significant role in his life, having spent part of his childhood enjoying various forms of fishing and educational activities with his family.
“As an adult, I have been on conservation trips with family to learn more about turtles and what is being done to conserve our Traditional Land,” he said.
“I hope my work brings about intercultural understanding for the many people that see it and therefore contributes to reconciliation.”
A ‘Step of Change’ contains multiple symbolic elements including:- A foot – shown as a group of islands. It depicts the step we need to take to make positive changes for the Reef
- Background blues – these colours represent a ripple in the water, indicating the change that will happen if we take a step now
- Animals – representing life in and around the Reef
- Teal lines – represent recovery and the Reef coming to life.
Mr Pryor's artwork will be displayed in a prominent location in the Marine Park Authority’s Townsville office to emphasise the commitment of the organisation to reconciliation.
Reconciliation Action Plans are strategic documents that include practical actions that will drive an organisation’s contribution to reconciliation both internally and in the communities in which it operates.
From left: Marine Park Authority Senior Project Manager Rachel Reese and Reef Protection Branch General Manager Dr Simon Banks, artist Nicky Bidju Pryor with his work ‘Step of Change’, Marine Park Authority Indigenous Compliance Manager Peta Rossand Special Projects Manager Eliza Glasson. Image: Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.
May 2nd, 2018: GBRMPA
A local artist’s stunning acrylic on canvas piece will be showcased on the cover of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s first Reconciliation Action Plan — scheduled for release later this year.
Titled ‘Step of Change’, the work is a creation of Nicky Bidju Pryor, a Juru Traditional Owner from the Burdekin-Bowen area and a descendant of the Birrigubba and Gunggandji nations.
The artwork features traditional depictions of marine life and a symbolic ‘step forward’ set against waves of striking blues and teal.
Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority reef protection branch general manager Dr Simon Banks said the artwork was selected from a wide range of high-quality designs submitted during an Expressions of Interest callout earlier this year.
“The piece perfectly captures the meaning and importance of reconciliation and the Great Barrier Reef,” Dr Banks said. “The Reconciliation Action Plan will demonstrate our commitment to strengthening relationships, respect and opportunities for our staff that identify as First Australians, and with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.”
Mr Pryor said the Great Barrier Reef played a significant role in his life, having spent part of his childhood enjoying various forms of fishing and educational activities with his family.
“As an adult, I have been on conservation trips with family to learn more about turtles and what is being done to conserve our Traditional Land,” he said.
“I hope my work brings about intercultural understanding for the many people that see it and therefore contributes to reconciliation.”
A ‘Step of Change’ contains multiple symbolic elements including:
- A foot – shown as a group of islands. It depicts the step we need to take to make positive changes for the Reef
- Background blues – these colours represent a ripple in the water, indicating the change that will happen if we take a step now
- Animals – representing life in and around the Reef
- Teal lines – represent recovery and the Reef coming to life.
Mr Pryor's artwork will be displayed in a prominent location in the Marine Park Authority’s Townsville office to emphasise the commitment of the organisation to reconciliation.
Reconciliation Action Plans are strategic documents that include practical actions that will drive an organisation’s contribution to reconciliation both internally and in the communities in which it operates.
From left: Marine Park Authority Senior Project Manager Rachel Reese and Reef Protection Branch General Manager Dr Simon Banks, artist Nicky Bidju Pryor with his work ‘Step of Change’, Marine Park Authority Indigenous Compliance Manager Peta Rossand Special Projects Manager Eliza Glasson. Image: Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.
PITTWATER YHA OFFERS FREE BEDS FOR GREEN HEARTS
Pittwater YHA opens its doors to green-hearted and green-thumbed guests who'll save the gorgeous Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park from imminent asparagus fern invasion. Yes, seriously.
WHAT IS IT?
Bush Regeneration sees eco-conscious, kind hearted humans restore and rehabilitate the gorgeous, sprawling Aussie bush from its weed-infested, degraded state into a healthy, thriving plant community, which will prosper and delight forevermore. Far from just weed removal; Regenerators focus on habitat, drainage, weed sources and establishing native communities. These are big words which probably don’t make much sense – but we have an interactive learning opportunity for you!
WHERE IS IT?
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, Sydney’s protected north coast, is home to rock engravings, red ochre rock paintings, the fuzziest wildlife you ever did see and the most breathtaking views a Sydneysider or visitor could comprehend; and is currently under threat from invasive asparagus fern; which needs removing. Who knew your Auntie’s fave veggie could be so aggressive?
ALRIGHT - SIGN ME UP!
The blissed-out, babbling-brooked, spectacular-viewed, fresh-aired oasis that is our Pittwater YHA, alongside the Northern Beaches Council, are offering you fine green-thumbed and hearted folk the opportunity to volunteer alongside professional Regenerators for a weekend of Pittwater Restoration from May 11 – 13, 2018. Spend two mornings of tending to the gorgeous surrounds and you’ll be rewarded with two nights’ accommodation, two days of meals (morning teas, BBQ lunches and evening dinners) and kayak use throughout your stay. Plus, you’ll be chuffed with yourself for doing your bit for the planet and our futures.
Along with your towels, two sheets, a pillowcase and, sturdy shoes, sunscreen and your breakfasts; you’ll need a $20 contribution for the weekend. For all the T&Cs; head to Pittwater YHA, shoot them an email or give them a ring on (02 9999-5748) – the only thing those guys love more than a regenerated bushland is chatting to ladies and gentleman who are keen on the idea!
Pittwater YHA opens its doors to green-hearted and green-thumbed guests who'll save the gorgeous Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park from imminent asparagus fern invasion. Yes, seriously.
WHAT IS IT?
Bush Regeneration sees eco-conscious, kind hearted humans restore and rehabilitate the gorgeous, sprawling Aussie bush from its weed-infested, degraded state into a healthy, thriving plant community, which will prosper and delight forevermore. Far from just weed removal; Regenerators focus on habitat, drainage, weed sources and establishing native communities. These are big words which probably don’t make much sense – but we have an interactive learning opportunity for you!
WHERE IS IT?
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, Sydney’s protected north coast, is home to rock engravings, red ochre rock paintings, the fuzziest wildlife you ever did see and the most breathtaking views a Sydneysider or visitor could comprehend; and is currently under threat from invasive asparagus fern; which needs removing. Who knew your Auntie’s fave veggie could be so aggressive?
ALRIGHT - SIGN ME UP!
The blissed-out, babbling-brooked, spectacular-viewed, fresh-aired oasis that is our Pittwater YHA, alongside the Northern Beaches Council, are offering you fine green-thumbed and hearted folk the opportunity to volunteer alongside professional Regenerators for a weekend of Pittwater Restoration from May 11 – 13, 2018. Spend two mornings of tending to the gorgeous surrounds and you’ll be rewarded with two nights’ accommodation, two days of meals (morning teas, BBQ lunches and evening dinners) and kayak use throughout your stay. Plus, you’ll be chuffed with yourself for doing your bit for the planet and our futures.
Along with your towels, two sheets, a pillowcase and, sturdy shoes, sunscreen and your breakfasts; you’ll need a $20 contribution for the weekend. For all the T&Cs; head to Pittwater YHA, shoot them an email or give them a ring on (02 9999-5748) – the only thing those guys love more than a regenerated bushland is chatting to ladies and gentleman who are keen on the idea!
Powerful Owl Release
March 18, 2018: Avalon Preservation AssociationPNHA's Jacqui Marlow has advised that a Powerful Owl chick has been released in Plateau Park following its recuperation in Taronga Park.
If you see it there being harassed, or even if you see it at all, can you please phone her on 0458 194 127.
Powerful owl family - photo courtesy PNHA
March 18, 2018: Avalon Preservation Association
PNHA's Jacqui Marlow has advised that a Powerful Owl chick has been released in Plateau Park following its recuperation in Taronga Park.
If you see it there being harassed, or even if you see it at all, can you please phone her on 0458 194 127.
Powerful owl family - photo courtesy PNHA
Australian Paramedics Find Better Drug To Tame Violent Patients
May 2nd, 2018: Emergency Medicine Foundation (Australia)
Australian paramedics are leading the world by introducing a new drug, droperidol, to quickly and safely calm violent patients fueled by alcohol and drugs.
With backing from the Emergency Medicine Foundation (EMF) Australasia, the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) has also conducted the world's first comparison of the standard sedative, midazolam, with droperidol in a prehospital setting.
QAS found droperidol sedated patients nearly 70 per cent quicker, was three times safer and significantly fewer patients needed additional sedation either in the ambulance or once in hospital in comparison to midazolam.
Within a week of the data being published, QAS had received requests for further information from ambulance services in the United Kingdom and New Zealand, according to QAS Executive Manager Clinical Policy Development, Lachlan Parker ASM.
"Midazolam is the accepted standard internationally, but it can have significant side-effects so there's been a huge gap in paramedics' ability to safely sedate violent patients," said Mr Parker.
"Our paramedics and emergency department staff welcome the impact droperidol is having and there are some amazing stories of how it quickly it works to calm really aggressive and violent patients.
"It's also simple to administer, there are much fewer side-effects, it rarely over-sedates and patients wake up much nicer. We're so happy to finally have a safe drug to use.
"And because we've also collated data on comparing droperidol with midazolam outside the hospital setting, we've produced one of the true practice-changing pieces of research. We can now demonstrate to other paramedics just how effective the drug is for us. I believe we'll see droperidol embedded extensively in ambulance services around the world."
Queensland Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Steven Miles said research projects just like this pave the way for positive change across the healthcare system.
"Sadly, there are thousands of incidents each year where frontline healthcare workers are subject to violent outbursts, mostly as a result of alcohol and drug abuse," he said.
"It's fantastic to see Queensland research making a positive impact in protecting our first responders and emergency department clinicians. Projects like this highlight the importance of investing in medical research and finding new, more effective and more efficient ways of providing vital health services to Queenslanders."
The QAS introduced droperidol in 2016 as one of several initiatives to reduce the escalating violence against paramedics, mostly by drunken patients.
Mr Parker championed the uptake of droperidol based on research involving Princess Alexandra Hospital emergency physician and clinical toxicologist, Dr Colin Page. Dr Page, who has $450,000 Noel Stevenson Fellowship from EMF, led the evaluation of the QAS droperidol roll out.
Dr Page said the real value of this latest research was in confirming that droperidol was safer and more effective in the prehospital setting, which mirrored previous results in the emergency department environment.
"The days of repeated doses of midazolam being given by paramedics are over, it just takes too long to sedate patients using this drug and it is more dangerous," he said.
"We're now pushing for paramedics and clinicians to administer the droperidol intramuscularly -- there is no need for people to use it intravenously -- and to stop mixing different sedatives.
"Based on our extensive research, the standard protocol for violent patients should be 10 mg droperidol (65 to 75 per cent effective) followed by second dose of 10 mg (which is 95 per cent effective) and then ketamine."
EMF Chair, Dr Anthony Bell said the QAS-led research showed the importance of evaluating changes in treatment protocols.
"A Queensland-led initiative is set to change treatment protocols globally and lead to better patient care because there was research funding available for an evaluation," said Dr Bell.
The QAS research comparing droperidol with midazolam is available in the 2018 March edition of the Journal of Prehospital Emergency Care.
EMF's Queensland Research Program is funded by Queensland Health.
Colin B. Page, Lachlan E. Parker, Stephen J. Rashford, Emma Bosley, Katherine Z. Isoardi, Frances E. Williamson, Geoffrey K. Isbister. A Prospective Before and After Study of Droperidol for Prehospital Acute Behavioral Disturbance. Prehospital Emergency Care, 2018; 1 DOI: 10.1080/10903127.2018.1445329
Australia’s First Research Hub For Eating Disorders Launched In NSW
April 30, 2018: NSW Health
Earlier diagnosis, improved evidence-based treatment and ongoing support during recovery for people living with an eating disorder will be the focus of a new collaborative partnership between NSW researchers.
Minister for Mental Health Tanya Davies and Federal Minister for Health Greg Hunt today launched the InsideOut Institute for Eating Disorders and announced it would be home for the NSW research team and the first national research hub dedicated to eating disorders.
“The Institute’s renewed research agenda is really exciting. We’ve worked closely with the Institute since 2013 to deliver the country’s first dedicated Service Plan for Eating Disorders and it’s been a game-changer for improving the care we provide patients and families.”
“Today’s announcement complements the NSW Government’s commitment to improving access to evidence-based care for people with eating disorders,” Mrs Davies said.
The NSW Government has committed more than $400,000 per year to the Institute for the continued implementation of the NSW Service Plan for Eating Disorders, which includes specialist training for frontline staff and workforce development. An additional $1.2 million has also funded ongoing projects.
The Institute, formerly known as the Centre for Eating and Dieting Disorders, is a collaboration between Sydney Local Health District and the University of Sydney.
Mr Hunt expressed support for the Institute and its commitment to helping the more than one million Australians living with an eating disorder.
“Bringing eating disorders out of the dark and into the light of public discourse is essential to drive change and I applaud the InsideOut Institute’s mission to further transform the Australian treatment landscape for eating disorders,” Mr Hunt said.
Institute Director Dr Sarah Maguire said today’s launch at the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Centre was an important step in driving forward a national research agenda for eating disorders.
“Eating disorders have one of the highest mortality rates of any mental illness – fortunately, they are
solvable. Our research work will explore innovative treatments and better ways to intervene with early intervention,” she said.
The NSW Government’s total investment in services for people living with an eating disorder in 2017- 18 is $5.8 million.
If you or someone you know needs help contact the NSW Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511, for crisis support phone Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Gonski Review To Achieve Educational Excellence In Australian Schools Report Released
April 30, 2018
PRIME MINISTER OF AUSTRALIA
The Hon Malcolm Turnbull MP
The Federal Government has released a landmark report on Australia’s schooling system and accepted its recommendations in principle.
The Government commissioned Mr David Gonski AC to undertake the Review to Achieve Educational Excellence in Australian Schools alongside a panel of seven eminent education and policy experts to determine how Australia can improve student achievement and school performance.
The Review finds that Australia’s education system needs to reform for the future.
While many other countries have been changing their education systems to keep pace with the challenges they face, the performance of Australia’s schools has stagnated and declined, both in comparison to other nations and in real terms. For example, between 2000 and 2015, the OECD’s Programme for International Student Assessment shows Australia dropped from 4th in the world for literacy to 16th, 7th in mathematics to 25th and 4th in science to 14th.
The Government has implemented the needs-based schools funding model Mr Gonski recommended in 2011, however, we have said all along that establishing fair funding arrangements alone do not produce better results. In fact, Australia already invests more per student than other countries that outperform us.
We need to get better outcomes for the record and growing funding we are investing.
The Review makes it clear Australia’s education system should make fundamental changes that would improve the prospects for every student across every school:
“Australian students should receive a world-class education, tailored to their individual learning needs, and relevant to a fast-changing world. They should be challenged and supported to progress and excel in their learning every year of school, appropriate to their starting point and capabilities.”
Australia must focus on creating an education system that gives each student the opportunity to excel and to be their individual best.
The Review identifies 23 recommendations under five themes:
- Laying the foundations of learning before the school years and in the home environment
- Equipping every student to grow and succeed with the knowledge they need and a focus on growing each individuals’ skills
- Creating, supporting and valuing a profession of expert educators including building on the Government’s reforms to date in teacher education
- Empowering and supporting school leaders with experience and autonomy
- Lifting aspirations with quality assurance, data and evidence-based research
The Review’s findings and recommendations are informed by extensive consultation with education, policy and business leaders as well as 279 submissions.
The recommendations outline a blueprint for everyone involved in school education, charting clear opportunities for federal leadership while respecting state and territory autonomy. Together, we can ensure Australia’s education system is a world leader for generations to come.
The Government thanks Mr Gonski and the Review panel for their diligent work.
Mr Gonski will brief state and territory education ministers at a special meeting of the COAG Education Council this Friday.
The Government will work with states and territories and non-government school systems to determine how the reforms set out in the Review should be delivered. A new reform agreement between the Commonwealth and jurisdictions will be negotiated this year to come into effect from 2019.
This Review is an opportunity for all levels of government, educators and families to turn around Australia’s performance and build a stronger school system. This is an opportunity we all must grasp to ensure this and future generations of students get the opportunities they need to succeed.
Through growth to achievement; Report of the Review to Achieve Educational Excellence in Australian Schools is available atwww.education.gov.au/review-achieve-educational-excellence-australian-schools.
Archibald Prize Finalists 2018: Finalists And Packing Room Prize Announced
Australia’s most extraordinary art event: NSW Art Gallery
The Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prizes is an annual exhibition eagerly anticipated by artists and audiences alike.
The Archibald Prize, first awarded in 1921, is Australia’s favourite art award, and one of its most prestigious. Awarded to the best portrait painting, it’s a who’s who of Australian culture – from politicians to celebrities, sporting heroes to artists.
The Wynne Prize is awarded to the best landscape painting of Australian scenery, or figure sculpture, while the Sulman Prize is given to the best subject painting, genre painting or mural project in oil, acrylic, watercolour or mixed media.
Each year, the trustees of the Art Gallery of NSW judge the Archibald and Wynne, and invite an artist to judge the Sulman. The 2018 judge is Angela Tiatia.
Visit the exhibition to vote for your favourite portrait in the ANZ People’s Choice award before voting closes on 12 August and see the work of budding artists aged 5-18 on display in the Young Archies.
Winner: Packing Room Prize 2018
Jamie Preisz
Title: Jimmy (title fight)
Medium: oil on canvas
Dimensions: 153 x 116.5 cm
Further information
Jamie Preisz’s subject is rock star Jimmy Barnes, who has a massive following both as the lead singer of Cold Chisel and as a solo performer. His two memoirs – Working class boy (2016) andWorking class man (2017) – are both bestsellers.
‘Jimmy has never been afraid to stand up and fight; he’s fought for his career, his family and even his life,’ says Preisz.
‘His dad, Jim Swan, was a prize-fighter in Glasgow and that formed part of my inspiration to depict him as a boxer. After losing my sister to suicide, I was touched deeply when I saw an interview with Jimmy speaking about his own suicide attempt. To me, he was fighting against the stigma of mental health issues by speaking so publicly about his own struggles, especially to generations of men who don’t feel that having emotional intelligence is a masculine quality.
‘The red drapery in the background is a reference to Caravaggio’s Judith beheading Holofernes, a painting often considered to represent triumph over tyranny. The drapery also suggests backstage – a place Jimmy knows well.’
Born in 1990 in Sydney, where he still lives and works, Preisz studied at the College of Fine Art. This is his first time in the Archibald Prize.
Jamie and Jimmy - (Supplied: Art Gallery of NSW)
The exhibitions for the Archibald, Wynne (landscape) and Sulman (subject, genre or mural painting) prizes runs from May 12 to September 9.
If you or someone you know needs help contact the NSW Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511, for crisis support phone Lifeline on 13 11 14.