Pittwater Online News

Front Page Issue 237:  NO FORCED AMALGAMATION RALLY at Winnererremy Bay Park Thursday 29 October 5pm + Great News From, About and BY Residents

SLSA Awards of Excellence 2015: Warriewood and Avalon Beach Life Savers Receive Meritorious Awards

Aquatics: Yachting Australia Awards 2015: Pittwater Sailors Nominees and Finalists

The Narrabeen Beach Challenge -  First in the 2015 Sydney Ocean Swim Series: Dive Into Supporting Narrabeen Beach SLSC on Saturday 31 October by Deidre McAlinden

Eddie's Paddling For A Cause: NBI Pittwater Paddle - 8th November 2015 

Held over:

KEEPING COMPANY: SALTWATER - new works by 45 Northern Beaches artists + 'Metamorphosis': exhibition of ceramics by fourteen students graduating from Northern Beaches Campus in Brookvale @ Manly Art Gallery & Museum 30 October — 29 November 2015

Profile: Palm Beach Longboarders share the classic way to ride a wave + The Old Log - Old Mal Rally  November 7th - HEAPS of family fun

History: Pittwater Reserves - The Green Ways: Mona Vale's Village Greens a Map of the Historic Crown Lands Ethos Realised in The Village, Kitchener and Beeby Parks -  Pittwater reserves adjoin our beaches where small green spaces have been set aside so people may picnic, swing, play cricket, tennis, golf, soccer and rugby..or hold markets, let their horses graze...have a dance...

Artist of the Month: Artist of the Month October 2015 - Nat Bromhead: Pittwater Photography - Award winning  photo-journalist with a passion for beautiful Pittwater shares a few glorious images and a story about a drone that flew away...and didn't come back!

Dear Community Members 

As you are aware IPART has released its report on all Council submissions in response to the Fit for the Future process.

What does this mean for Pittwater?

Pittwater, Warringah and Manly Councils have all been declared 'unfit' on the basis that they do not reach the scale and capacity benchmark. Indeed 60% of Sydney metropolitan Councils are in this category. Consequently IPART recommended a merger of all three Council's to form one mega Council for the northern beaches.

Pittwater Council remains opposed to forced amalgamation. Pittwater Council has continually reiterated this position as it believes that there will be negative consequences for the community if we were to become one mega Council on the northern beaches which include a reduced voice in planning matters and less democratic representation.

What can you do?

A range of activities are currently being planned to ensure that the community has a voice. A response to the NSW Government is due by 18 November and this means we need to mobilise action as quickly as possible.

No Forced Amalgamation event - Thursday 29 October 5pm sharp, Winnererremy Bay, Mona Vale (near Flying Fox Café)

Council invites as many members of the community as possible to be part of a fun and innovative photo opportunity. Council has engaged drone and video photography to capture a human NO. We will be distributing blue caps to all who participate to accentuate to shape of NO that will be seen from the air. The visuals captured at the event will be distributed broadly through media channels and a dedicated social media campaign will be implemented to reinforce our NO Forced Amalgamation stance. 

Council will also be hosting a BBQ at this event for all who attend to galvanise our collective efforts.

Mona Vale Market Day - 1 November 

Pittwater Council and Pittwater Forever will have stalls at the market day. A photo booth capturing community sentiment and postcard campaign directed to the Premier Mike Baird will be amongst the activities to give the community an opportunity to voice their opinion on that day.

Updates will be made to the website about future activities and information as it becomes available: www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/cou…/local_government_reform

Jane Mulroney, Manager – Community Engagement & Corporate Strategy - Pittwater Council: October 24, 2015

Pittwater hasn't escaped amalgamation yet

21 Oct 2015

Pittwater Deputy Mayor Kylie Ferguson has expressed her utmost disappointment with the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) report that ruled Pittwater as being one of Sydney’s councils that has been declared ‘unfit’.

IPART released its report yesterday that deemed Pittwater does not meet the Fit for the Future scale and capacity criteria due to its population size. Council did however meet every other financial criterion incorporating sustainability, infrastructure and efficiency measures.

“Our community has spoken time and time again—they don’t want Pittwater to be amalgamated,” Cr Ferguson said.

“The State Government says they have given us 30 days to ‘reconsider the benefits of merging’ and have offered cash benefits. These include up to $25 million for the combined Council’s that include $10 million to cover the costs of a merger. $15 million would come from the newly announced Stronger Communities fund to provide funding for community infrastructure projects. However, amalgamation may come at great cost and our community has to date rejected amalgamations.

“The Council will need to consider a report and its options for the way forward.

“Now that IPART has delivered its recommendation to State Government, it’s time for our community to have one last say before the government determines our fate.

“Council’s preference is to stand alone, remain committed to a strong, independent Pittwater Council providing local representation and delivery of local services to the people of Pittwater on the existing boundaries. Council also remains opposed to forced amalgamations.

“Results from independent research and Pittwater Council’s community engagement have consistently demonstrated overwhelming support for the status quo.

“Pittwater’s independence remains front and centre in our community with a whopping 89 per cent supporting us to stand alone” she added.

To stay informed, please visit www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/reform

	PBLB 2015 OMLR Entry Form.pdf Size : 119.493 Kb  Type : pdf

Bushcare in Pittwater - October 2015:Pittwater Council's Cooee Newsletter - October 2015: HERE

For further information or to confirm the meeting details for below groups, please contact Council's Bushcare Officer on 9970 1367

Sun Oct 25 
Bungan Beach 9-12pm 
Winn Bay 9-12pm 
Kundibah Reserve 8:30-11:30am 

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary 2015

November

November 7 Pittwater place, Mona Vale, 9am to 3pm - Craft, sewing, knitting, bric-a-brac.

November 14 Sausage sizzle, Bunnings, Narrabeen, 8am to 4pm

November 20 Mona Vale Hospital foyer,9am to 3pm - Baking, craft, sewing, knitting

December

December 5 Pittwater Place, Mona Vale, 9am to 3pm - craft, sewing, knitting, bric-a-brac

December 12 Sausage sizzle, Bunnings, Narrabeen 8am to 4pm     

Southern Cross Wildlife Care 

       Critter of the Month- October 2015: 

 Springtime Slitheries

Spring is a wonderful time of year!  The flowers are blooming, cute baby animals are emerging, people are just happier!  And Spring-time is when all our beautiful scaly creatures start getting active again.  

Not everyone is a fan of snakes, but mostly because they are a very misunderstood species…  They are essential to a healthy ecosystem.  Without them we would be overrun with rodents and other pests.  By keeping down the quantity of rodents, they reduce the occurrence of diseases carried by these and other pests.  

General Behaviour:

•    Contrary to popular belief, snakes are not out to ‘get us’ nor are they hiding and waiting to ambush us. 

•    They want nothing to do with us and tend to be shy and secretive.•    Their first line of defence is to slither away as fast as possible.  If we continue to pester them, they give warnings, such as hissing and ‘neck-flattening’.  If we still torment them, they might ‘strike’ or head-butt with a closed mouth.  In the case of venomous snakes, if they do bite, it is often a ‘dry’ bite i.e. no venom is injected.  Hospital statistics show that around 60% of patients submitted with snake bites turn out to have ‘dry’ bites.•    In pet-and-snake encounters, our domesticated pets are always the instigators.  Snakes won’t attack dogs or cats but will defend themselves if pounced upon. 

Interesting Snake Facts

•    There are roughly 3,000 species of snakes in the world.

•    Snakes are found on every continent except Antarctica  (and New Zealand only has sea-snakes).•    Snakes have no eyelids.•    All snakes are carnivores.•    Snakes have flexible jaws that allow them to eat prey bigger than their head!•    Snakes ‘smell’ with their tongue.•    Snakes don’t have external ears.•    Snakes are mistakenly called ‘cold-blooded’.  They are, in fact, ectothermic, which means that they rely on the outside environment for the temperature of their blood.•    Most snakes have no maternal instincts (with the exception of some pythons).  Finding a baby snake does not mean that ‘the mother and father must be close-by’.•    Not all snakes lay eggs.  Some give birth to live young e.g. red-bellied black snakes, death adders.•    An ‘expectant’ snake is referred to as being gravid, not pregnant.•    Most snakes are solitary animals and only get together during breeding season.•    Extreme fear of snakes is called Ophidiophobia.

The Most Common Species of Snakes on the Northern Beaches:

Diamond Python

 Morelia spilota spilota

Harmless and non-venomous

Diamond pythons are predominantly black in colour with yellow spots arranged in diamond-like shapes.  The average adult size is between 2m and 3m.

Diamond pythons are typically placid in nature and reluctant to bite.  They are mostly arboreal (tree-dwelling) but have been seen on roof-tops, curled up under trees or draped over fence-tops.  They prey on rodents, lizards, birds and mammals such as possums.  They are constrictors. 
 

Green Tree Snake

Dendrelaphis punctulata

Harmless and non-venomous

The Green Tree Snake is very slender, is greenish-blue on the body and bright yellow on the belly.  They have big black eyes and a very long, thin, prehensile tail.  They reach lengths of around 1.2m.

They are often seen on the ground which surprises people – given that they are tree snakes.  They come to ground to prey on frogs, skinks and fish. Gorgeous little creatures!

Golden-crowned Snake

Cacophis squamulosus

Mildly venomous – not considered dangerous

These little snakes are very secretive and are nocturnal so you’d be lucky to encounter one.  They’re dark brown to grey in colour with a pink belly.  They have a yellowish ‘halo’ or crown – hence their name.  Golden-crowned snakes tend to reach lengths of between 50cm – 75cm. They feed predominantly on lizards and occasionally frogs.

They are wonderful little snakes but they often get into trouble when cats pounce on them and bring them inside.  

Photo by Glenn Addison

Red-bellied Black Snake

Pseudechis porphyriacus

Venomous but very reluctant to bite or engage with humans or animals

The Red-bellied Black Snake is a gorgeous glossy black on top and red on the lower sides and belly.  The average-sized specimen is 1.2m - 1.5m.  They are often found near water and are excellent swimmers!   Their diet consists primarily of frogs.  

They are not an aggressive species and their first form of defence is always to escape.   They are often just moving through your property and should just be left alone.

How to Behave if you Encounter a Snake:

•   Snakes love to lie out on warm surfaces, basking in the sun.  You are most likely to encounter them on concrete walkways, on roads, on bush pathways or on warm rocks.  Snakes will almost always slither away into the nearby bushes if they see or feel you approaching.

•    If, however, they are asleep (which is hard for you to see as they don’t have eyelids to close) and don’t sense your approach – just stomp loudly from a good few metres away and they should awaken and slither away.

•    NEVER poke them with a stick, or attempt to hit them with an implement, don’t step on them or do anything to enter their strike-zone.  This is the only time they will become defensive and possibly strike.

What to do if you are bitten:

Unless you are trying to catch a snake or kill it, you are unlikely to ever be bitten.  However, in the unlikely event that you are, follow these 3 easy steps:

•   Do NOT wash the area of the bite – the hospital will take a swab at the bite site for the Venom Detection Kit (VDK).

•   Use a compression bandage at the bite site and then bandage all the way up the limb and down again.  

•   Sit down – don’t panic – and call an ambulance.

Never apply a torniquet!

There is no need to identify the snake.  The Venom Detection Kit in the hospital will process the venom from the swab and identify which antivenom is required. 

60% of snake-bites are ‘dry’ bites i.e. no venom is injected.

What to do if a Snake enters your Home or Property:
1.  Do not panic
2.  Keep people, children and pets away from the snake
3.  If the snake is outside, keep an eye on it and call for advice
4.  If the snake is in a room, close the door to that room and call Sydney Wildlife
 
Snakes have every right to be here and should be treated with respect. 
 
Do NOT attempt to kill ANY snake!!!  It is illegal and dangerous.  Generally, a snake will only become defensive if it is threatened.  Leave them and they will tend to move off of their own accord.  Or call Sydney Wildlife to have the animal relocated.
 

Sydney Wildlife:  9413 4300

Southern Cross Wildlife Care’s Dr Howard Ralph will treat any injured snake – venomous or non-venomous.

By Lynleigh Greig

Southern Cross Wildlife Care

 SHOROC Gets Grant to Help Business Reduce Waste Bills and Increase Recycling

October 16, 2015

SHOROC and its partner councils – Manly, Mosman, Pittwater and Warringah – have been awarded a $200,000 NSW Government grant to help businesses measure their waste, reduce their waste bills, increase recycling and reduce their impact on the environment.

The Recycling at Work project funds waste assessments for small and medium sized businesses and produces tailored action plans to assist businesses reduce waste and increase recycling. Businesses are assessed by an experienced waste management consultant and eligible businesses can access funding to cover up to half the costs of equipment to enhance their recycling capacity.

SHOROC President and Mayor of Mosman, Cr Peter Abelson says the program will provide free advice and support on how businesses can reduce waste and lower costs by identifying recycling opportunities.

“There are 34,500 businesses in the SHOROC region, some of which could benefit from an independent waste assessment that will help them save money on waste disposal costs and reduce the amount of waste that they send to landfill,” Cr Abelson said.

The program will kick off in Pittwater.

Businesses are invited to register for a FREE waste assessment or find out more by contacting project officer, Ian Mackay a trecyclingatwork@shoroc.com or 0418 602 114. A. Prince Consulting, who has a proven track record in delivering results to businesses has been engaged to conduct assessments of 200 small to medium businesses.

NSW businesses send more than 2.5 million tonnes of waste to landfill each year and more than 70 per cent of this is valuable material, such as food, wood, textiles and plastics that could be recycled.

Small to medium sized businesses generate around 45 per cent of business waste. Reducing their waste makes good business sense and saves valuable water, energy and raw materials. The NSW Government is targeting a 70 per cent recycling rate for business waste by 2021.

To date more than 7,000 businesses across NSW have benefited from the free waste assessment and implemented Waste Reduction Action Plans.

This project is a NSW EPA Waste Less, Recycle More initiative funded from the waste levy and is part of SHOROC’s Too Good to Waste strategy.

Seeking Pittwater's local heroes

Nominations are now open for Pittwater’s 2016 NSW Local Citizen of the Year Awards to be announced at next year’s Australia Day celebrations.

Residents are encouraged to nominate outstanding citizens who have contributed to their community in one of three categories: Pittwater Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year and Sportsperson of the Year.

Deputy Mayor Kylie Ferguson applauded the many volunteers who give their time generously for the benefit of others.

“These people are often considered experts in their fields which cover bushcare, aged care, lifesaving, emergency services, coastal patrol and youth and community services to name just a few,” she said.

“It is a great opportunity to recognise residents who work tirelessly behind the scenes making a significant contribution to their community.”

“This is our opportunity to acknowledge their contribution and to say thank you,” added Cr Ferguson.

Winners will be announced at an Australia Day Awards Reception and at celebrations at Bert Payne Reserve, Newport on 26 January 2016.

Nomination forms for the Awards can be completed online or downloaded at www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/australia_day_awardsPrinted copies are also available from Council’s customer service centres and libraries at Avalon and Mona Vale.

Entries for the Awards close on Friday 27 November 2015.Nominations can be mailed to: Community Relations Team, Pittwater Council, PO Box 882 Mona Vale, NSW 1660 or emailed toPittwater_council@pittwater.nsw.gov.au.

Enquiries relating to the Awards or Pittwater’s Australia Day event can be directed to the Community Relations Team on 9970 1172.

 $2.8 Million For Pittwater’s Public Schools

23 October 2015

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes today announced over $2.8 million to help support learning initiatives in Pittwater’s eleven public schools.

The funding has been made possible by NSW signing the Gonski funding agreement and means Pittwater’s public schools will receive an average of $257,000 in needs-based support funding in 2016.

School principals are able to determine how this additional funding is spent to best support student outcomes. This could include employing specialist teachers or speech pathologists to help target key learning areas.

“This is a fantastic boost for our local schools,” Rob Stokes said today.

“Pittwater is really fortunate to have exceptional local schools – yet extra funds are always helpful to expand and improve student opportunities.

“There’s over 7000 students attending public schools throughout Pittwater and every dollar spent is a great investment.

“School principals are best placed to determine how this extra funding is spent - so the decision is entirely up to them.

“This initiative is an important part of the many financial reforms being made possible by the NSW Government signing up to the Gonski funding agreement.

“I look forward to learning of the new opportunities being introduced by our local schools as a result of this extra funding,” Rob Stokes said.

Pittwater Paddle 2015

Show your support on Sunday 8th November 2015 for 2nd annual Pittwater Paddle for NBI, the Northern Beaches' premier community paddling event.

Want to join in the fun this year but don't have a craft? No problemo! 

You can hire a kayak or sup as part of the online registration process and it will be delivered to the event ready for you on the day! 

How good is that?! 

Register NOW at: www.pittwaterpaddle.org.au

 UPDATE ON THE PROPOSED LANDSCAPING AND PARK STRUCTURES AT THE PLATYPUS SITE, NEUTRAL BAY

21 October 2015: Sydney Harbour Federation Trust

The Sydney Harbour Federation Trust recently placed a proposal for landscaping and park structures at northern end of the former HMAS Platypus site, Neutral Bay on public exhibition.

Following consideration of submissions from the community and stakeholders, the Harbour Trust has approved the landscaping and wharf repair components of the proposal. The approved works comprise planting, creating a paved plaza and reinstating the (lowered) northern end of the wharf.

These landscaping works are the final stage of the remediation works at Platypus, Neutral Bay and will create a new park in the northern area of Platypus.

The assessment of the spiral walkway structure has been deferred. This component was proposed to be undertaken as a separate stage and is currently unfunded. The spiral walkway will be assessed separately.

The works are expected to commence in late 2015 and will take approximately five months to complete.

Click here for more information about the proposal and the planning process.

 Sunset orange glows on Australia's newest coloured circulating coin ahead of Remembrance Day

Thursday 22 October 2015

In the lead-up to Remembrance Day, Australia’s newest coloured circulating coin marks one hundred years since the unforgettable poem In Flanders Fieldswas first heard.

Announced today at the Royal Australian Mint (the Mint) by the Assistant Minister to the Treasurer, the Hon Alex Hawke MP, over two million coins of the2015 $2 Coloured Circulating Coin – Remembrance Day are being produced and will allow many Australians to share the meaning behind Remembrance Day and the memorable poem.

“Continuing the tradition of sharing the Anzac story, the Royal Australian Mint has created a beautifully crafted and meaningful coin that will encourage conversation and education about Remembrance Day,” said Mr Hawke.

“My announcement today marks the official release of these coins which means they are now able to be distributed to banks for circulation. However, it is important to note it can take weeks, even months, to start seeing it in your area.”

The coin features an inscription of text from the In Flanders Fields poem as well as sculpted larks surrounding the soft orange coloured rings reminiscent of the sunset glow cited in the poem.

Royal Australian Mint CEO Mr Ross MacDiarmid said coloured circulating coins have become a wanted item by many, helping to enforce the powerful message that the coin portrays.

“Commemorative coins play a significant role in reaching many Australians and conveying an important message – everyone who finds this coin in their change will be able to reflect on the Anzac Centenary and Remembrance Day,” said Mr MacDiarmid.

“As a result of a huge demand for the red coloured circulating coin in April we have created some additional programs to help ensure the coin is accessible in a number of different ways.” said Mr MacDiarmid.

For a limited time only, the public will be able to buy a pack of 5 circulating coins at face value ($10) plus postage and handling by heading online to eshop.ramint.gov.au A collectible version in special themed packaging is also available for $12.50.

 Do Not Leave Valuables in Your Car: Thieves Are About

STEAL FROM MOTOR VEHICLE OFFENCES 

October 2015 - Northern Beaches LAC - NSW Police Force

Northern Beaches Police have received 6 reports of motor vehicles that have been broken into in the Mona Vale area over night. Please ensure that you lock your vehicle and remove all valuables. A friendly reminder that it is an offence to not secure your vehicle properly.

Don't tempt thieves by leaving wallets, purses, laptops, sun glasses, bags, IPods, IPads, cash etc in your vehicle. Be on the look out for any suspicious persons loitering around vehicles. If you see anyone please contact police.

 Pittwater High School 30 Year Reunion in November

Pittwater High School 30 Year Reunion is on very soon. For Year 12 students from 1985 – our 30 year reunion is creeping up fast! So we need you to buy tickets by 15th October or we may have to cancel the event. That’s less than 2 weeks away!!

So get your tickets fast so we can keep planning for a fantastic catch-up at Bayview Golf Club on 7th November. 

All you have to do is click here  and follow the instructions.

Tickets are $70 till 15th October and then the price goes up to $75. But we need you to buy now so we don’t risk cancelling the event.

Where – Bayview Golf Club

When – Sat 7th November

Cost - $70 till 15th October, then $75.

Includes – Food & Entertainment, drinks @ club prices

Who – everyone who was in year 10 in 1983, or in year 12 in 1985

 Police issue warning about taxation scams

October 2015 

Police are urging members of the community to be on the lookout for taxation scams following an increase in people being targeted around the state.

Commander of the NSW Police Force Fraud and Cybercrime Squad, Detective Superintendent Arthur Katsogiannis, said fraudsters were contacting members of the public by phone and tricking them into paying sums of cash.

“These scam artists will call people on their landline telephone or mobile and claim they work for the Australian Tax Office,” he said.

“They tell the person they have an outstanding tax debt and that if they don’t pay up quickly they will be arrested, taken to court and fined thousands of dollars.

“The victim is told to make a payment via the post office or Western Union to avoid prosecution; by all accounts the offenders are quite convincing.

“Reports have been widespread and, in more recent times, have occurred in remote parts of the state including Hay, Broken Hill and Griffith.”

Det Supt Katsogiannis said there had been an initial spike in this scam at the end of the financial year, but it had re-emerged as an issue just recently.

He said while there had been 80 reported incidents of people being targeted and losing money in NSW this year, it was thought the true figure would be higher as people were often reluctant to report fraud offences.

“The Fraud and Cybercrime Squad has established a strike force and we are keen to hear from anyone with information to assist us,” he said.

“In particular, we would like to hear from anyone who has fallen victim through this scam. If you have received a similar call and made a payment, please contact us.

“Local police recently arrested three men in southern NSW in relation to this type of activity, but we believe there is a larger criminal syndicate operating on our shores with possible overseas links.”

If you are contacted by anyone purporting to be from the Australian Tax Office and saying you owe money, police urge you to do the following:

-Check with your Tax Agent.

-Hang up the phone and contact the ATO yourself

-If you suspect it is a scam, report the matter to your local police station immediately. 

More information about this scam can be found online at:

Australian Taxation Office – Online services: 

Report a Scam

Australian Competition and Consumer Commission – Scamwatch 

Police are urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: nsw.crimestoppers.com.au/ 

Information you provide will be treated in the strictest of confidence. We remind people they should not report crime information via our Facebook and Twitter pages.

Layne Beachley Foundation launches national scholarship grants for girls and women with two new categories for 2016

“ Academia and Education” and “ Science and Technology”.

The Layne Beachley Foundation “Aim For The Stars” has announced the launch of their 2016 national scholarship program for girls and women looking for that extra financial support to achieve their goals in their chosen field of pursuit - and this year they are looking to double their grants. The program open to *girls and women across Australia, offers scholarships for individuals and for groups with a keen focus this year on seven fields of pursuit: Academia and Education, Arts, Media and Entertainment, Business and Leadership, Culture and Community, Environment and Sustainability, Science and Technology, and Sport. Since its 2003 launch, The Layne Beachley Foundation has transformed dreams into reality for more than 400 females Australia-wide in a diverse range of areas including opera, ballet, marine science, diving, literacy education, rally driving, BMX, equestrian, environment and hockey.

Says Layne Beachley, “this program is my way of giving back to a community that supported me in a catalyst moment, when I was working extreme hours, had little time to train and had the world championships in my vision. A $3,000 grant was the catalyst moment which allowed me to travel internationally and for the first time not sleep in my surfboard bag but in a hotel”. 

“To this day I remember this moment that changed my life, and now through my foundation I want to support the goals and dreams of aspiring girls and women, emerging leaders in their field that have the potential to reach their dreams and at the same time put back into their field of pursuit and mentor the next generation” said Beachley.

For students keenly following their field of pursuit, The Layne Beachley Foundation provides a solid platform for engagement and advocacy for girls and women looking to learn, to grow and to succeed with a spotlight in 2016 on Science and Technology, and Academia and Education.

The Foundation focuses on assisting girls and women to achieve their goals, while matching grant recipients with a mentor for the year, and flying them to meet Layne in Sydney and attend a 2-day mentoring workshop, with further online materials across the 12 month period.

“Any hard-working female who is committed to pursuing her passion and needs financial support deserves a helping hand and can apply for an Aim for the Stars 2016 Scholarship by the due date.”

Successful applicants will receive a financial grant in accordance with the following amounts and conditions: $4,000 – ‘Individual’ Scholarship, 1 person 12 years and above and $6,000 – ‘Group’ Scholarship, 2 or more people 12 years and above

In recognition of where it all started for Layne and her quest to win her first world championship, the Foundation through the generous support of Clubs NSW are excited to announce the inaugural Layne Beachley Foundation Scholarship.

This $4,000 grant will be awarded to a girl or young women living in the Manly Warringah area, who is looking for that extra financial support to pursue her dreams and aspirations.

To be eligible applicants must be 12 years of age and above, be an Australian resident and have the passion and drive to achieve a dream their dream.

Applications are also open in the following areas:

- Academia and Education

- Arts and Entertainment

- Business and Leadership

- Culture and Community Development

- Environment and Sustainability

- Science and Technology

- Sport

To apply:

1. Go to the scholarship application page

2. Select 'Foundation' from the Pursuit Category drop down box

3. Complete the required fields and click SUBMIT

Applications close on 13 November 2015

If you have any further questions please email Kelly Holcroft, Head of Scholarships, Grants and Alumni or phone 0422 600 733.

Applications close November 13th, 2015, and can be completed online at www.aimforthestars.com.au.

 Palm Beach Sailing Club - Beware the Bullets Regatta 2015 

To be held in conjunction with F18 Association - NSW Travellers Series 21st and 22nd November 2015 at Sand Point, Iluka Road, Palm Beach 

Saturday 21st November 

11:00am Briefing 

12:30pm First race (not before this time) 

Sunday 22nd November 

9:30am Briefing 

11:00am First race. No racing start after 3pm 

Organising Authority & Venue: Palm Beach Sailing Club Inc., cnr Barrenjoey and Iluka Rds, Palm Beach NSW. Rigging and briefings will be held on the beach at Sand Pt, end of Sand Pt Lane, Palm Beach. Racing will be held within Pittwater and/or the enclosed waters of Broken Bay, NSW. 

All off the beach boats welcome and forms part of the NSW F18 Travellers Series. Come and enjoy 2 days of awesome racing on stunning Pittwater amongst a friendly, welcoming Club. Please feel free to pass this invitation on to any fellow sailors who may be interested. Look forward to welcoming you all

Eligibility: 

All off-the-beach multihulls are eligible to compete. At least one member of each crew has to be a member of a sailing club or class association with ISAF affiliation. 5 boats constitutes a class, any classes with fewer than 5 boats will race in a miscellaneous division decided on yardstick.

Find out more at: www.pbsc.org.au and on Facebook page

 Time To Prepare For Bushfire Season

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes is urging local residents to ensure their properties are prepared for this year’s bushfire season.

With a considerably hot and dry season expected, the NSW Rural Fire Service is warning residents in vulnerable areas to regularly clear their gutters, remove woodpiles, vegetation cuttings and flammable materials from around their homes, ensure easy access to long-length garden hoses and prepare a bushfire survival plan. 

“This is a crucial time of the year for all homeowners to inspect their properties and carry out any necessary works,” Rob Stokes said today.  

“A small effort now can make a huge difference in the event of an approaching fire.

“Bushfires have devastating impacts on communities and laziness can make the risks even greater. 

“The more preparation that’s done now the better protected we’ll be. 

“The frightening bushfires which swept through our community in 1994 are still fresh in the minds of many Pittwater residents and no one ever wants to see this repeated.

“More information on bushfire safety precautions and advice is available by visiting the NSW Rural Fire Service websitewww.rfs.nsw.gov.au 

“With the bushfire season upon us it’s vital we all heed the warnings and take necessary precautions to help protect our community,” Rob Stokes said.

 NEW SATURDAY NORTH FORT TOURS

October 2015:  Sydney Harbour Federation Trust

Commencing Saturday 7 November, and continuing over Summer, the Harbour Trust is now offering Saturday guided tours for our very popular North Fort tours. Our regular Sunday tours continue but you can now experience the WWII tunnels and more on Saturdays too. Visit our North Fort Tours page for more information.         

Want to see underground WWII tunnels? Take a 70 minute (approx) guided tour through WWII tunnels, gun emplacements and more at North Fort. Hear how North Fort contributed to the Defence of Sydney and enjoy magnificent views of the harbour.

When: Every Sunday (all year) & every Saturday (Summer from November to end February).

Times: Sundays - 10:30am, 11:30am, 1:00pm, 2:00pm.  Saturdays – 10:30am & 1pm 

Cost: $7 adult, $5 child/concession, $20 family (two adults and up to three concessions).  Please note payments can be made in cash or via EFTPOS but there is no ATM on site. 

Bookings: Saturdays & Sundays on site for that day only (Please note maximum participant numbers per tour apply).  

Where: North Fort - North Head Scenic Drive, Manly.

By car: Drive along North Head Scenic Drive, through Parkhill Archway and past roundabout. Continue for approx 2 kms. The entrance to North Fort is on your left and signposted. Follow the driveway through the stone wall to the car park inside. The Visitor Centre is next to the car park near the stone wall.

By foot: As above or if coming from Shelly Beach, walk through North Head Sanctuary (former School of Artillery) along the internal North Fort Rd and through the stone wall. Follow the road around to your right. The Visitor Centre is on your right below the car park.      

Conditions: Tour includes bush tracks, steep stairs and underground tunnels. A moderate level of fitness and reasonable mobility is required and visitors must wear sensible footwear.

Group Tours: Group tours are also available Mon - Fri by appointment. Minimum group size of 15, subject to guide availability.

Tel: (02) 8969 2100 - Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm

Please note in the event that a fire danger rating of extreme or catastrophic in the Greater Sydney region (area 4) is in place, as advised by Rural Fire Service, North Head will be closed.

Run a marathon in Japan

If you have ever held a burning desire to run in a marathon in Japan – now’s the time!   Mona Vale Library is seeking two Pittwater residents to run in the 2016 Senshu International City Marathon.

Pittwater Council’s friendship with the Tadaoka Town Government in Japan provides local runners with a chance to participate in the marathon in Tadaoka on 21 February 2016.

It’s an exciting opportunity for entrants who must be Pittwater residents, aged 18 and over. 

Mona Vale Library Services Manager, Cathy Howie said the exchange visit was a great chance for local runners to experience Japanese culture.

Last year’s participant from Avalon, Lachlan Arnold, couldn’t speak more highly of the warm and hospitable welcome he and his fellow participant, Lisa Tyndall received.

“The people of Tadaoka, from Mayor Wada to all of the people who cheered us on were so welcoming and treated us with the highest level of respect and kindness,” said Mr Arnold.

Mrs Howie said entrants would have their airfare from Sydney to Osaka paid for, along with the costs of accommodation. The period entrants would be away is from 18-23 February 2016.

Participants are expected to have run at least one marathon before and to be Australian citizens.

Those interested can pick up an application pack (with the selection criteria) from Mona Vale Library or download one form the website:www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/library

Please express your interest by email toheather_thomson@pittwater.nsw.gov.au by Friday 6 November 2015.  For more information: Heather Thomson: 9970 1614

Imagine Mona Vale - Engagement Summary for Mona Vale Place Plan‏

Pittwater Council is pleased to share Imagine Mona Vale,Engagement Summary for Mona Vale Place Plan.  (PDF – 9.64MB) 

This engagement summary documents the ideas, inspiration and activations that have been generated for Mona Vale town centre over an 18 month period in consultation with the community and stakeholders. It summarises key elements of the Mona Vale place planning process undertaken between January 2014 and June 2015.

Imagine Mona Vale - Engagement Summary follows on from Mona Vale Snapshot. Mona Vale Snapshot is a scoping document, which provides baseline information about how Mona Vale town centre is operating and offers an explanation of the place planning process that is being applied to Mona Vale.

Feedback has been grouped into themes presented through the recent Urban Talks Series and community engagement activities. These themes have provided the framework for capturing key ideas about place planning. Sometimes overlapping, these themes are the fundamental components of what makes a successful, prosperous place.

Some of the key activations undertaken over this 18 month period were:

• Village Economies Summit and Mona Vale Long Lunch

• Q&A panels

• Workshops and open house

• Staff workshops

• Place making events

• Place audits

• Web and social media

For more details download the Engagement Summary document or visit our website.

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 19/10/2015 

click on Logo: 

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

 Gone Fishing Gallery at Waterfront Store Church Point

Open again TODAY in the top room Waterfront Store

Open mainly weekends as an addition to the waterfront cafe. 

Keep up to date on their Facebook page

 Folia - local artist Michelle Ball Exhibition‏

Painter Michelle Ball, stylist Vanessa Colyer Tay and photographer Sam Mcadam-Cooper join forces for Folia, their first show.

By day all three work in the magazine world and this exhibition was born from their mutual passion for the Australian bush.

Meet the artists at the opening on Thursday, October 22, at 6pm. 

The Shop Gallery, 112 Glebe Point Road, Glebe NSW.

Open 10am-6pm until October 30

For more information email: theshopgalleryglebe@gmail.com

Michelle Ball

Michelle grew up in Sydney, on the edge of coastal bush land. She studied art and filmmaking at Central, School of Art, Perth, WA, while spending time in Margaret River and on the Abrohlis Islands.

Shortly after, Michelle spent ten years living in New York where she worked as an Art Director and studied watercolour in her spare time.

She now lives with her family, on the edge of Ku ring gai Chase National Park and has become a passionate bush regenerator who studies and paints the landscape that surround her.

Currently, she is working towards a show called FOLIA exploring as she walks the bush tracks on Pittwaters Western foreshores, searching for images that share her emotions. With images of regrowth she intends to give the viewer a feeling of hope and optimism in a burnt out landscape.

“My intention is to continue drawing and painting details of what I see everyday, creating a poetic invitation that use nature to tell a story.”

DoggieRescue.com

Pet of the Week

Malinka  

AGE/SEX: 2 years 

BREED: English Staffy x

Malinka was a hit and run victim early in April and was brought to our vets with a fractured radius and ulna. She has had this plated and pinned and recovering well. Malinka is a sensitive sweet girl who loves to have her humans around her. She has a smooth coat and weighs 12.5kg. She comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. Her adoption cost is $400.

For further details or to meet all dogs at call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email monika@DoggieRescue.com. Visit www.DoggieRescue.com to see all our dogs. www.facebook.com/doggierescue 

 Newport Beach Arts Market

The NEWPORT BEACH ARTS MARKET is the launch event for the annual Newport Sculpture Trail, with the market’s theme “inspired by the sea”.

In 2015 the beach arts market will take place in the heart of Newport from 6 to 9pm on Friday the 13th of November.

For the event, we are looking for street performing artists and market stallholders offering arts, crafts, homewares or services “inspired by the sea”.

We are also offering an opportunity for schools, artist collectives and other community groups to participate in the launch event by creating light sculpture installations to showcase their organisations and work at the launch event for free. Read more here.

For performing artist enquiries call 0415 662 918 or emailinfo@beachartsmarket.com

For market stallholder information and application forms click here

 Fairer, simpler Medicare Safety Net to help more patients

21 October 2015 

More Australians could have faster access to simpler safety net protections against large medical expenses under a Government proposal introduced into Parliament on 21 October 2015.

Minister for Health Sussan Ley said the proposed legislation would ensure concession card holders received greater taxpayer support once their out-of-pocket medical costs hit $400 for the year, as opposed to $638 under the current system – a difference of $238. 

Non-concessional families and singles will also significantly benefit, with their safety net thresholds falling from $2000 to $1000 and $700 respectively, while new online tools would make it easier for family members to combine their safety net payments so they are all counted as one. 

Dependent children aged 16 to 25 who are temporarily unable to work or study due to illness will also receive reprieve, with this package allowing their medical costs to count towards their family’s Medicare Safety Net, rather than being considered as a single individual. 

Ms Ley said the Turnbull Government’s proposed package also aimed to create a more transparent fee system that would allow patients to better understand their out-of-pocket costs and compare prices, while at the same time encouraging health providers to set more competitive prices. 

“Like Medicare itself, the Medicare Safety Net is, at its core, about protecting our most vulnerable and ensuring they can afford to access essential health services,” Ms Ley said. 

“Unfortunately constant chopping and changing over the past decade has seen the safety net become overly-complex for patients to understand and not always targeted towards those who need it most. 

“With one in two Australians now suffering from a chronic disease, it’s essential we have safety nets designed to protect patients who need ongoing, costly primary care or hospitalisation. 

“These changes will ensure more patients receive faster access to a fairer Medicare Safety Net that is easier to understand and ensuring future investment is sustainable.”

Today’s Bill amends the Health Insurance Act 1973 to remove the two existing Medicare safety nets and the Greatest Permissible Gap, and replace them with one new simplified Medicare Safety Net. This will set new, consistent thresholds for patients at:

• $400 – families and singles that are concession card holders

• $700 – families eligible for Family Tax Benefit A and non-concessional singles

• $1000 – non-concessional families

Ms Ley said the “responsible” policy closely integrated with work already underway as part of the Turnbull Government’s healthier Medicare Package, which is exploring new patient-centred primary care funding models and ensuring Medicare services reflected contemporary clinical practice. 

Government investment in the Medicare Safety Net was $414 million last year – double the $206 million forecast. 

Ms Ley said two independent reports commissioned under the previous Labor Government in 2009 and 2011 attributed this unexpected growth in Commonwealth safety net spending to key factors:

1. “A concern is that most ESMN (Extended Medicare Safety Net) benefits have flowed to services that are more often used by wealthier sections of the community.” (2009 - vii)

2. “The EMSN… provides benefits that increase with provider fees, regardless of how high those fees may be. This feature has resulted in significant increases in provider fees for some services and has meant that patients do not receive the full benefit of the EMSN.” (2009 – vii)

3.These fee increases have resulted in considerable leakage of government benefits towards providers’ incomes, rather than reduced costs for patients.” (2009 – vi)

The review also found that for some services, as much as 78 cents in every $1 spent through the Extended Medicare Safety Net were going to medical providers in the form of increased fees, whilst only 22 cents were assisting patients with their out-of-pocket costs.

This led Labor to place caps on the amount that could be claimed for some Medicare services once patients reached their safety net threshold, with 500 or so restrictions now in place. 

However, with more than 5700 Medicare services currently available, Ms Ley said the evidence suggested a fragmented system risked some health providers transferring higher fees to uncapped services to compensate, keeping out-of-pocket costs high for patients. 

“While most health providers charge reasonable fees for their services, other providers have used the Extended Medicare Safety Net to underwrite excessive fees. This has increased patient out-of-pocket costs for some patients,” Ms Ley said. 

Ms Ley said this had led to the Government rethinking the way patients could be supported, with today’s package proposing to offer patients up to 1.5 times (150%) the value of the Medicare schedule fee for a medical procedure once they reach their safety net. 

“If the Medicare fee is $100 for a medical service or procedure, then you will receive a total of up to $150 in Medicare benefits to help cover the doctor’s bill. If it’s $1000, you will receive up to $1500. If it’s $10,000, you will receive up to $15,000 in Medicare benefits,” Ms Ley said. 

“This will allow patients to know upfront how much the Government’s contribution towards their medical cost will be before they set foot in a medical consult room and to shop around if there are additional out-of-pocket costs. 

“It will also restrict excessive fee inflation by medical providers and hopefully encourage current billing practices by some health providers to become more proportionate to Medicare fees.”

However, Ms Ley said while a cap would be placed on how much could be claimed for an individual Medicare service or procedure once the safety was reached, the total amount that could be claimed by patients in a year would remain uncapped. 

The current Medicare Safety Net system pays patients an uncapped 80 cents for every dollar of treatment once they reach their threshold – allowing health provider fees to charge as much as 10 times the value of the Medicare schedule fee paid. 

Ms Ley said taxpayers expected to save $266.7 million over five years as a result of the proposed changes, all of which would be reinvested into securing the future health of Australians through the Government’s landmark Medical Research Future Fund.

“This package will also allow families to register and manage their combined safety net arrangements online for the first time as part of the Turnbull Government’s commitment to 21st Century Government and the digital economy,” Ms Ley said. 

Ms Ley said the Government had already begun consultations with Labor, the Greens and the cross-bench and would continue to do so with the hope of new changes starting January 2016. 

 Boomerang Bags: sewing the seeds of change

Our workshops are still continuing every Tuesday at the Avalon Rec Centre from 11am until 5pm. Please come down and find out more about how it all works.

You do not need to be a sewer to be involved. We have many non sewing jobs. 

For those who cannot make the Tuesday workshop but would like to help we have several options. For sewers we can drop off some "ready to sew" bags to be done in your own time. For non sewers contact us for more information on how you can help from home.

We also have some items for sale . You can buy a beautiful "Bought to Support" version of Boomerang Bags ( $10) and a lovely ceramic reusable coffee mug ($15.00). So start reducing your plastic use now. Contact us for more information. 

For anyone who is on Facebook we now have a group. Search forBoomerang Bags Avalon. 

 LEGO AT THE LIBRARY

Local children will have the chance to join a club specialising in one of the most enduring playthings of childhood. Mona Vale Library has started a Lego club on the first Sunday of each month from 2pm to 4pm. Next is November 1st 2015. The club is open to children aged between seven and twelve years of age, with younger children welcome with parental supervision. If you are interested in attending a Lego at the Library session contact the library on 9970 1622 or book in person at the library, 1 Park Street, Mona Vale.

Click on logo above to visit their website.

New Season for Sailability Pittwater 

Sailability Pittwater is a volunteer organisation which provides sailing for people with a disability. Our main recreational sailing activities are at Rowland Reserve, Bayview, and we run competitive sailing for people with a disability out of RPAYC Newport.

We are currently looking for new volunteers for our Saturday morning program at Rowland Reserve and Tuesdays at RPA. Visit our website for more information at  www.sailability.org/au/pittwater or call John on 9982 5656

The NSW Government Gazette 

The New South Wales Government Gazette is the official channel for the circulation of Proclamations, Regulations, Government Notices, Private Legal Advertisements andther matters required to be published in the Government Gazette under the Statutes of New South Wales Government. The NSW Government Gazette contains: New South Wales Legislation, Notices (public and official announcements), and Official Government Notices from the New South Wales Government and Local Government Agencies, Cities and Shires. The NSW Government Gazette is available online on theN.S.W. Government website from 2pm each Friday.

Front Page Issue 236: Couta Week Begins - The Wattle Cup Races on Pittwater Next Weekend, Ingleside RFB Open Day 2015, Pittwater Residents Maintain NO Amalgamation Stance at Rosehill..., Bird Week 2015, Spring in Pittwater 2015

Keeping Pittwater Independent Stance Persists:  Media Releases Monday 12th October to Friday 16th October, 2015 relating to FFTF Reforms by LGNSW, IPART, State and Pittwater Council

Aquatics: The Coutas are coming! by Lisa Ratcliff: Inaugural Couta Week, October 16-25, 2015 on Sydney Harbour & Pittwater including the SASC’s Gaffers Day on Sunday 18th

Pittwater Dragon Boat Racing Club Members Win Silver medals at International Dragon Boat World Championships 2015 - Virginia Head, Septuagenarian,  brings home three!

Veterans Centre - Sydney Northern Beaches at Dee Why RSL Official Opening: October 16, 2015

The Man Who Saved Smithy - Fighter pilot, pioneer aviator, hero: the life of Sir Gordon Taylor MC, GC by Rick Searle - a few insights from the biographer of this new Allen&Unwin book on a local hero

Reflections by George Repin: THE HANDICRAFTS OF CHIANG MAI

Pictures: Maria Regina Bands Together at Pittwater Palms by Joanne Seve

Park Bench Philosopher: Bird Songs – poems about our birds by youngsters from yesterdays - for children Bird Week 2015: 19-25 October

Food: The Balcony Room at Palm Beach Golf Club - fresh Spring Fare, best Fish Tacos ever and a view to live for - perfect Sunday Lunch bliss

Held over:

Springtime Slitheries by Lynleigh Greig (Southern Cross Wildlife Care) - a guide to snakes on the Northern Beaches

KEEPING COMPANY: SALTWATER - new works by 45 Northern Beaches artists + 'Metamorphosis': exhibition of ceramics by fourteen students graduating from Northern Beaches Campus in Brookvale @ Manly Art Gallery & Museum 30 October — 29 November 2015

Profile: Pittwater Dragon Boat Racing Club - Pittwater Dragons is a competitive racing club and would love to hear from you if you enjoy training hard and racing hard! 

Members recently won silver medals at the International Dragon Boat Federation World Nations Championships held in Welland, Canada

History: Pittwater Reserves - The Green Ways: Mona Vale's Village Greens a Map of the Historic Crown Lands Ethos Realised in The Village, Kitchener and Beeby Parks -  Pittwater reserves adjoin our beaches where small green spaces have been set aside so people may picnic, swing, play cricket, tennis, golf, soccer and rugby..or hold markets, let their horses graze...have a dance...

Artist of the Month: Artist of the Month October 2015 - Nat Bromhead: Pittwater Photography - Award winning  photo-journalist with a passion for beautiful Pittwater shares a few glorious images and a story about a drone that flew away...and didn't come back!

 SHOROC Gets Grant to Help Business Reduce Waste Bills and Increase Recycling

October 16, 2015

SHOROC and its partner councils – Manly, Mosman, Pittwater and Warringah – have been awarded a $200,000 NSW Government grant to help businesses measure their waste, reduce their waste bills, increase recycling and reduce their impact on the environment.

The Recycling at Work project funds waste assessments for small and medium sized businesses and produces tailored action plans to assist businesses reduce waste and increase recycling. Businesses are assessed by an experienced waste management consultant and eligible businesses can access funding to cover up to half the costs of equipment to enhance their recycling capacity.

SHOROC President and Mayor of Mosman, Cr Peter Abelson says the program will provide free advice and support on how businesses can reduce waste and lower costs by identifying recycling opportunities.

“There are 34,500 businesses in the SHOROC region, some of which could benefit from an independent waste assessment that will help them save money on waste disposal costs and reduce the amount of waste that they send to landfill,” Cr Abelson said.

The program will kick off in Pittwater.

Businesses are invited to register for a FREE waste assessment or find out more by contacting project officer, Ian Mackay atrecyclingatwork@shoroc.com or 0418 602 114. A. Prince Consulting, who has a proven track record in delivering results to businesses has been engaged to conduct assessments of 200 small to medium businesses.

NSW businesses send more than 2.5 million tonnes of waste to landfill each year and more than 70 per cent of this is valuable material, such as food, wood, textiles and plastics that could be recycled.

Small to medium sized businesses generate around 45 per cent of business waste. Reducing their waste makes good business sense and saves valuable water, energy and raw materials. The NSW Government is targeting a 70 per cent recycling rate for business waste by 2021.

To date more than 7,000 businesses across NSW have benefited from the free waste assessment and implemented Waste Reduction Action Plans.

This project is a NSW EPA Waste Less, Recycle More initiative funded from the waste levy and is part of SHOROC’s Too Good to Waste strategy.

Seeking Pittwater's local heroes

15 October, 2015

Nominations are now open for Pittwater’s 2016 NSW Local Citizen of the Year Awards to be announced at next year’s Australia Day celebrations.

Residents are encouraged to nominate outstanding citizens who have contributed to their community in one of three categories: Pittwater Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year and Sportsperson of the Year.

Deputy Mayor Kylie Ferguson applauded the many volunteers who give their time generously for the benefit of others.

“These people are often considered experts in their fields which cover bushcare, aged care, lifesaving, emergency services, coastal patrol and youth and community services to name just a few,” she said.

“It is a great opportunity to recognise residents who work tirelessly behind the scenes making a significant contribution to their community.”

“This is our opportunity to acknowledge their contribution and to say thank you,” added Cr Ferguson.

Winners will be announced at an Australia Day Awards Reception and at celebrations at Bert Payne Reserve, Newport on 26 January 2016.

Nomination forms for the Awards can be completed online or downloaded at www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/australia_day_awardsPrinted copies are also available from Council’s customer service centres and libraries at Avalon and Mona Vale.

Entries for the Awards close on Friday 27 November 2015. Nominations can be mailed to: Community Relations Team, Pittwater Council, PO Box 882 Mona Vale, NSW 1660 or emailed toPittwater_council@pittwater.nsw.gov.au.

Enquiries relating to the Awards or Pittwater’s Australia Day event can be directed to the Community Relations Team on 9970 1172.

 Empowering Women Dinner Success: Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Inc.  

Thanks to everyone who came to our "Empowering Women" dinner this week. Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Inc., and Mackellar Z Club, are part of the worldwide service organisation Zonta International. These local clubs support women in need on the Northern Beaches by giving education grants to women, assisting high school students to stay at school, supporting the local Womens’ Refuge and Manly Womens’ Shelter amongst other projects.

The “Empowering Women” Dinner focussed on the empowerment of women in many areas with specific focus on domestic violence and the “Zonta Says No” campaign.

Our guest speaker, Natalie Isaacs, spoke about the empowering of women in her organisation “I Million Women” and discussed approaches and ideas on empowering women generally. 

Natalie is the founder and joint CEO of “1 Million Women”, the Australian movement of women who take practical action to fight dangerous climate change by changing the way they live.  In 2013, in acknowledgement of the empowering of women in this area, the United Nations selected “1 Million Women” as one of six women-led grassroots climate action programs - selected from hundreds around the world - to be highlighted as ‘lighthouse activities’ for the planet.

What an inspiring event. Many thanks to the hard working team of organisers, and wonderful to have the ZClub at Mackellar Girls involved.

Avalon Art Carnival 

You’re invited to Avalon’s first twilight laneway party to celebrate the opening of Avalon Art Carnival: THE GAME

Join us in Wickham Lane, Avalon’s newest laneway venue, when the rules of The Game will be revealed by our mystery carnival game host.

Date: Friday 6 November

Time: 6.30pm – 8pm

Location: north end of Wickham Lane Avalon

Wickham Lane will come alive with music and atmosphere. Be the first to see the featured laneway artworks for the art carnival ... all with some surprise creative touches!

The event is FREE but you need to register now and get an entry pass.

Be quick, numbers are limited!

Pittwater Paddle 2015

Show your support on Sunday 8th November 2015 for 2nd annual Pittwater Paddle for NBI, the Northern Beaches' premier community paddling event.

Want to join in the fun this year but don't have a craft? No problemo! 

You can hire a kayak or sup as part of the online registration process and it will be delivered to the event ready for you on the day! 

How good is that?! 

Register NOW at: www.pittwaterpaddle.org.au

 Do Not Leave Valuables in Your Car: Thieves Are About

STEAL FROM MOTOR VEHICLE OFFENCES 

October 14 - Northern Beaches LAC - NSW Police Force

Northern Beaches Police have received 6 reports of motor vehicles that have been broken into in the Mona Vale area over night. Please ensure that you lock your vehicle and remove all valuables. A friendly reminder that it is an offence to not secure your vehicle properly.

Don't tempt thieves by leaving wallets, purses, laptops, sun glasses, bags, IPods, IPads, cash etc in your vehicle. Be on the look out for any suspicious persons loitering around vehicles. If you see anyone please contact police.

 Pittwater High School 30 Year Reunion in November

Pittwater High School 30 Year Reunion is on very soon. For Year 12 students from 1985 – our 30 year reunion is creeping up fast! So we need you to buy tickets by 15th October or we may have to cancel the event. That’s less than 2 weeks away!!

So get your tickets fast so we can keep planning for a fantastic catch-up at Bayview Golf Club on 7th November. 

All you have to do is click here  and follow the instructions.

Tickets are $70 till 15th October and then the price goes up to $75. But we need you to buy now so we don’t risk cancelling the event.

Where – Bayview Golf Club

When – Sat 7th November

Cost - $70 till 15th October, then $75.

Includes – Food & Entertainment, drinks @ club prices

Who – everyone who was in year 10 in 1983, or in year 12 in 1985

 Police issue warning about taxation scams

Friday, 16 October 2015 

Police are urging members of the community to be on the lookout for taxation scams following an increase in people being targeted around the state.

Commander of the NSW Police Force Fraud and Cybercrime Squad, Detective Superintendent Arthur Katsogiannis, said fraudsters were contacting members of the public by phone and tricking them into paying sums of cash.

“These scam artists will call people on their landline telephone or mobile and claim they work for the Australian Tax Office,” he said.

“They tell the person they have an outstanding tax debt and that if they don’t pay up quickly they will be arrested, taken to court and fined thousands of dollars.

“The victim is told to make a payment via the post office or Western Union to avoid prosecution; by all accounts the offenders are quite convincing.

“Reports have been widespread and, in more recent times, have occurred in remote parts of the state including Hay, Broken Hill and Griffith.”

Det Supt Katsogiannis said there had been an initial spike in this scam at the end of the financial year, but it had re-emerged as an issue just recently.

He said while there had been 80 reported incidents of people being targeted and losing money in NSW this year, it was thought the true figure would be higher as people were often reluctant to report fraud offences.

“The Fraud and Cybercrime Squad has established a strike force and we are keen to hear from anyone with information to assist us,” he said.

“In particular, we would like to hear from anyone who has fallen victim through this scam. If you have received a similar call and made a payment, please contact us.

“Local police recently arrested three men in southern NSW in relation to this type of activity, but we believe there is a larger criminal syndicate operating on our shores with possible overseas links.”

If you are contacted by anyone purporting to be from the Australian Tax Office and saying you owe money, police urge you to do the following:

-Check with your Tax Agent.

-Hang up the phone and contact the ATO yourself

-If you suspect it is a scam, report the matter to your local police station immediately. 

More information about this scam can be found online at:

Australian Taxation Office – Online services: 

Report a Scam

Australian Competition and Consumer Commission – Scamwatch 

Police are urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: nsw.crimestoppers.com.au/ 

Information you provide will be treated in the strictest of confidence. We remind people they should not report crime information via our Facebook and Twitter pages.

Layne Beachley Foundation launches national scholarship grants for girls and women with two new categories for 2016

“ Academia and Education” and “ Science and Technology”.

The Layne Beachley Foundation “Aim For The Stars” has announced the launch of their 2016 national scholarship program for girls and women looking for that extra financial support to achieve their goals in their chosen field of pursuit - and this year they are looking to double their grants. The program open to *girls and women across Australia, offers scholarships for individuals and for groups with a keen focus this year on seven fields of pursuit: Academia and Education, Arts, Media and Entertainment, Business and Leadership, Culture and Community, Environment and Sustainability, Science and Technology, and Sport. Since its 2003 launch, The Layne Beachley Foundation has transformed dreams into reality for more than 400 females Australia-wide in a diverse range of areas including opera, ballet, marine science, diving, literacy education, rally driving, BMX, equestrian, environment and hockey.

Says Layne Beachley, “this program is my way of giving back to a community that supported me in a catalyst moment, when I was working extreme hours, had little time to train and had the world championships in my vision. A $3,000 grant was the catalyst moment which allowed me to travel internationally and for the first time not sleep in my surfboard bag but in a hotel”. 

“To this day I remember this moment that changed my life, and now through my foundation I want to support the goals and dreams of aspiring girls and women, emerging leaders in their field that have the potential to reach their dreams and at the same time put back into their field of pursuit and mentor the next generation” said Beachley.

For students keenly following their field of pursuit, The Layne Beachley Foundation provides a solid platform for engagement and advocacy for girls and women looking to learn, to grow and to succeed with a spotlight in 2016 on Science and Technology, and Academia and Education.

The Foundation focuses on assisting girls and women to achieve their goals, while matching grant recipients with a mentor for the year, and flying them to meet Layne in Sydney and attend a 2-day mentoring workshop, with further online materials across the 12 month period.

“Any hard-working female who is committed to pursuing her passion and needs financial support deserves a helping hand and can apply for an Aim for the Stars 2016 Scholarship by the due date.”

Successful applicants will receive a financial grant in accordance with the following amounts and conditions: $4,000 – ‘Individual’ Scholarship, 1 person 12 years and above and $6,000 – ‘Group’ Scholarship, 2 or more people 12 years and above

In recognition of where it all started for Layne and her quest to win her first world championship, the Foundation through the generous support of Clubs NSW are excited to announce the inaugural Layne Beachley Foundation Scholarship.

This $4,000 grant will be awarded to a girl or young women living in the Manly Warringah area, who is looking for that extra financial support to pursue her dreams and aspirations.

To be eligible applicants must be 12 years of age and above, be an Australian resident and have the passion and drive to achieve a dream their dream.

Applications are also open in the following areas:

- Academia and Education

- Arts and Entertainment

- Business and Leadership

- Culture and Community Development

- Environment and Sustainability

- Science and Technology

- Sport

To apply:

1. Go to the scholarship application page

2. Select 'Foundation' from the Pursuit Category drop down box

3. Complete the required fields and click SUBMIT

Applications close on 13 November 2015

If you have any further questions please email Kelly Holcroft, Head of Scholarships, Grants and Alumni or phone 0422 600 733.

Applications close November 13th, 2015, and can be completed online at www.aimforthestars.com.au.

 Palm Beach Sailing Club - Beware the Bullets Regatta 2015 

To be held in conjunction with F18 Association - NSW Travellers Series 21st and 22nd November 2015 at Sand Point, Iluka Road, Palm Beach 

Saturday 21st November 

11:00am Briefing 

12:30pm First race (not before this time) 

Sunday 22nd November 

9:30am Briefing 

11:00am First race. No racing start after 3pm 

Organising Authority & Venue: Palm Beach Sailing Club Inc., cnr Barrenjoey and Iluka Rds, Palm Beach NSW. Rigging and briefings will be held on the beach at Sand Pt, end of Sand Pt Lane, Palm Beach. Racing will be held within Pittwater and/or the enclosed waters of Broken Bay, NSW. 

All off the beach boats welcome and forms part of the NSW F18 Travellers Series. Come and enjoy 2 days of awesome racing on stunning Pittwater amongst a friendly, welcoming Club. Please feel free to pass this invitation on to any fellow sailors who may be interested. Look forward to welcoming you all

Eligibility: 

All off-the-beach multihulls are eligible to compete. At least one member of each crew has to be a member of a sailing club or class association with ISAF affiliation. 5 boats constitutes a class, any classes with fewer than 5 boats will race in a miscellaneous division decided on yardstick.

Find out more at: www.pbsc.org.au and on Facebook page

 LGNSW Board Elections

Media Statement: 14 October 2015

Local Government NSW today held productive discussions with the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) to determine the most appropriate and timely way to resolve an issue currently delaying the finalisation of its new Board.

Voting to determine the LGNSW Board was conducted at LGNSW’s Annual Conference at Rosehill Racecourse, in Sydney’s west, on Monday 12 October.

While the AEC formally declared the positions of President and Treasurer on Tuesday 13 October, the declaration of other positions was placed on hold after Hawkesbury City Council was incorrectly categorised as a rural-regional council.

The categorisation meant the Council’s four votes for Vice President and Director positions were lodged in the rural regional category, rather than urban-metropolitan. The causative issue was one of document control. 

Preliminary legal advice has identified that the next step is an application to the Federal Court for an Election Inquiry. While current electoral law does not permit the Association to lodge its own application, it may make a submission to the AEC asking the Commission to do so as soon as possible. 

It is understood neither the President nor Treasurer positions are impacted by the misclassification because they are voted on by the Association as a whole, irrespective of classification. 

However the positions of Urban-Metropolitan Vice President and Rural-Regional Vice President are impacted due to tight margins of less than four votes, and the potential flow of preferences. 

The election of Urban-Metropolitan and Rural-Regional Directors is similarly impacted.

LGNSW Board Elections 

The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) has declared the results of the 2015 LGNSW board and office holder elections. The results were declared in the following elections: • President • Treasurer • Vice President (Metropolitan/Urban) • Vice President (Rural/Regional) • Directors (Metropolitan/Urban) • Directors (Rural/Regional) 

The results are as follows: 

• President – Cr Keith Rhoades AFSM 

• Treasurer – Cr Scott Bennison 

• Vice President (Metropolitan/Urban) – Cr Bill Pickering 

• Vice President (Rural/Regional) – Cr Greg Matthews 

• Directors (Metropolitan/Urban) – Cr George Glinatsis, Cr Mazhar Hadid, Cr Paul Hawker, Cr Julie Hegarty, Cr Yvonne Keane, Cr Leo Kelly and Cr Linda Scott 

• Directors (Rural/Regional) – Cr Lindsay Brown, Cr Ruth Fagan, Cr Phyllis Miller, Cr Denise Osborne, Cr Ben Shields, Cr Mark Troy and Cr Darriea Turley 

Note: The elections of the Vice President (Metropolitan/Urban), Vice President (Rural/Regional), Directors (Metropolitan/Urban) and Directors (Rural/Regional) may be subject to an inquiry by the Federal Court under the Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Act. 

LGNSW is working with the AEC to bring about a quick resolution and will keep members informed.

 Time To Prepare For Bushfire Season

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes is urging local residents to ensure their properties are prepared for this year’s bushfire season.

With a considerably hot and dry season expected, the NSW Rural Fire Service is warning residents in vulnerable areas to regularly clear their gutters, remove woodpiles, vegetation cuttings and flammable materials from around their homes, ensure easy access to long-length garden hoses and prepare a bushfire survival plan. 

“This is a crucial time of the year for all homeowners to inspect their properties and carry out any necessary works,” Rob Stokes said today.  

“A small effort now can make a huge difference in the event of an approaching fire.

“Bushfires have devastating impacts on communities and laziness can make the risks even greater. 

“The more preparation that’s done now the better protected we’ll be. 

“The frightening bushfires which swept through our community in 1994 are still fresh in the minds of many Pittwater residents and no one ever wants to see this repeated.

“More information on bushfire safety precautions and advice is available by visiting the NSW Rural Fire Service websitewww.rfs.nsw.gov.au 

“With the bushfire season upon us it’s vital we all heed the warnings and take necessary precautions to help protect our community,” Rob Stokes said.

 Top Water Athletes Gather In The Tweed

Thursday 15 October 2015: SLS NSW

Over 30 of the state’s top surf sport athletes will be put through their paces in a gruelling three-day program at the Surf Australia High Performance Centre located at Casuarina on the NSW Tweed Coast from Friday.

The high performance program is targeted at those who will compete in the age groups from under 15s through to opens in all water disciplines in the 2015/16 season.

Competition for places at the camp was fierce with proven performance at previous carnivals or the potential to push for higher honours a crucial factor in gaining selection.

With the camp coming just weeks into the lifesaving season, it’s an opportunity for the athletes to fine tune their preparations ahead of what promises to be a busy summer campaign of surf sports.

It’s also a chance for the athletes to renew friendships with their fellow competitors from around the state while also refine their technique under the watchful and experienced eyes of NSW Head Coach Jeff Mowbray.

Mowbray a veteran of many representative campaigns will undoubtedly be casting a keen eye on the athlete’s form with a view on potential selection for next season’s Surf Interstate team. NSW Surf Sports Manager Rob Pidgeon feels the camp will provide everything the athletes need to take their performances to the next level.

“We’ve got a really good mix of youth and experience selected for the program this year. Already some of these up and coming athletes have achieved exceptional results at NSW Country, State and National level,” Mr Pidgeon said.

“It’s a wonderful chance for those selected to fine-tune their preparations for the season while also seeing the results of their hard winter work.

“The centre and its facilities are first class and reflect an elite environment for the athletes that will certainly help them improve. I have no doubt that those selected will benefit from their time at the camp and many will subsequently push for higher honours,” he concluded.

Far North Coast

Caitlin Callahan – Byron Bay

Scout Hembrow – Bryon Bay

Jy Timperley – Byron Bay

Zoe Hughes - Byron Bay

North Coast

Tahlia Kollen - Sawtell

Hunter

Daniel Collins – Redhead

Lily Costello – Redhead

Jye Lehmann - Catherine Hill Bay

Central Coast

Harry Armstrong – Avoca Beach

Keeley Booth – Avoca Beach

Finn Flaherty – Avoca Beach

Beau Jeffries - Avoca Beach

Claire Gaffney – Umina

Jemma Smith – Umina

Callum Sutton – Terrigal

Harry Braddish - Umina

Sydney Northern Beaches

Jackson Borg – Newport

Ollie Signorini – Newport

James Finn – Newport

Hugh McAlpine - Newport

Emily Doyle – Manly

Thomas Doyle – Manly

Naomi Scott – Manly

Callum Lowe-Griffiths – Queenscliff

Sydney

Ben Highfield - North Cronulla

Katherine Conder – Elouera

Chris King – Elouera

Brooke Dixon – Wanda

Ethan Garland – North Cronulla

Kira Hood – North Cronulla

Lachlan Moyle – North Cronulla

South Coast

Matthew Sperring – Warilla-Barrack Point

Head Coach: Jeff Mowbray – Swansea Belmont

Assistant Coach: Scott McCartney – Cudgen Headland

The 2015 SLSNSW High Performance Academy Program runs from Friday 16 – Sunday 18 October at the Surfing Australia High Performance Centre in Casuarina Beach.

 NEW SATURDAY NORTH FORT TOURS

October 2015:  Sydney Harbour Federation Trust

Commencing Saturday 7 November, and continuing over Summer, the Harbour Trust is now offering Saturday guided tours for our very popular North Fort tours. Our regular Sunday tours continue but you can now experience the WWII tunnels and more on Saturdays too. Visit our North Fort Tours page for more information.         

Want to see underground WWII tunnels? Take a 70 minute (approx) guided tour through WWII tunnels, gun emplacements and more at North Fort. Hear how North Fort contributed to the Defence of Sydney and enjoy magnificent views of the harbour.

When: Every Sunday (all year) & every Saturday (Summer from November to end February).

Times: Sundays - 10:30am, 11:30am, 1:00pm, 2:00pm.  Saturdays – 10:30am & 1pm 

Cost: $7 adult, $5 child/concession, $20 family (two adults and up to three concessions).  Please note payments can be made in cash or via EFTPOS but there is no ATM on site. 

Bookings: Saturdays & Sundays on site for that day only (Please note maximum participant numbers per tour apply).  

Where: North Fort - North Head Scenic Drive, Manly.

By car: Drive along North Head Scenic Drive, through Parkhill Archway and past roundabout. Continue for approx 2 kms. The entrance to North Fort is on your left and signposted. Follow the driveway through the stone wall to the car park inside. The Visitor Centre is next to the car park near the stone wall.

By foot: As above or if coming from Shelly Beach, walk through North Head Sanctuary (former School of Artillery) along the internal North Fort Rd and through the stone wall. Follow the road around to your right. The Visitor Centre is on your right below the car park.      

Conditions: Tour includes bush tracks, steep stairs and underground tunnels. A moderate level of fitness and reasonable mobility is required and visitors must wear sensible footwear.

Group Tours: Group tours are also available Mon - Fri by appointment. Minimum group size of 15, subject to guide availability.

Tel: (02) 8969 2100 - Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm

Please note in the event that a fire danger rating of extreme or catastrophic in the Greater Sydney region (area 4) is in place, as advised by Rural Fire Service, North Head will be closed.

Run a marathon in Japan

If you have ever held a burning desire to run in a marathon in Japan – now’s the time!   Mona Vale Library is seeking two Pittwater residents to run in the 2016 Senshu International City Marathon.

Pittwater Council’s friendship with the Tadaoka Town Government in Japan provides local runners with a chance to participate in the marathon in Tadaoka on 21 February 2016.

It’s an exciting opportunity for entrants who must be Pittwater residents, aged 18 and over. 

Mona Vale Library Services Manager, Cathy Howie said the exchange visit was a great chance for local runners to experience Japanese culture.

Last year’s participant from Avalon, Lachlan Arnold, couldn’t speak more highly of the warm and hospitable welcome he and his fellow participant, Lisa Tyndall received.

“The people of Tadaoka, from Mayor Wada to all of the people who cheered us on were so welcoming and treated us with the highest level of respect and kindness,” said Mr Arnold.

Mrs Howie said entrants would have their airfare from Sydney to Osaka paid for, along with the costs of accommodation. The period entrants would be away is from 18-23 February 2016.

Participants are expected to have run at least one marathon before and to be Australian citizens.

Those interested can pick up an application pack (with the selection criteria) from Mona Vale Library or download one form the website:www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/library

Please express your interest by email toheather_thomson@pittwater.nsw.gov.au by Friday 6 November 2015.  For more information: Heather Thomson: 9970 1614

Imagine Mona Vale - Engagement Summary for Mona Vale Place Plan‏

Pittwater Council is pleased to share Imagine Mona Vale,Engagement Summary for Mona Vale Place Plan.  (PDF – 9.64MB) 

This engagement summary documents the ideas, inspiration and activations that have been generated for Mona Vale town centre over an 18 month period in consultation with the community and stakeholders. It summarises key elements of the Mona Vale place planning process undertaken between January 2014 and June 2015.

Imagine Mona Vale - Engagement Summary follows on from Mona Vale Snapshot. Mona Vale Snapshot is a scoping document, which provides baseline information about how Mona Vale town centre is operating and offers an explanation of the place planning process that is being applied to Mona Vale.

Feedback has been grouped into themes presented through the recent Urban Talks Series and community engagement activities. These themes have provided the framework for capturing key ideas about place planning. Sometimes overlapping, these themes are the fundamental components of what makes a successful, prosperous place.

Some of the key activations undertaken over this 18 month period were:

• Village Economies Summit and Mona Vale Long Lunch

• Q&A panels

• Workshops and open house

• Staff workshops

• Place making events

• Place audits

• Web and social media

For more details download the Engagement Summary document or visit our website.

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 19/10/2015 

click on Logo: 

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Mona Vale Library values mental health this month

Mona Vale Library is profiling a number of free events during October for Mental Health Month.

Mental Health Month NSW is part of a national mental health promotion campaign held throughout October each year.

The timing of the campaign centres on World Mental Health Day, which happens each year on 10 October.

This year’s theme is ‘Value Your Mind’ and the events the library has planned – help you do just that.

There’s a range of mental health and wellbeing topics which will provide food for thought as well as access to a wide range of resources.

Pittwater Council’s Mayor, Jacqui Townsend said this was another fine example of Mona Vale Library being a social hub for our community.

“Local residents are invited to come along to a variety of events ranging from laughter yoga to Bridge and all things in between,” added Cr Townsend.

Choose from one or all of the following events during October:

Literary lunch - Thursday 22 October 12 noon – 1.30pm

Bettina Deda, Interior stylist and author of Downsizing with Style, will talk about how empty nesters can maintain wellbeing whilst downsizing with style and function. www.bdcolourdesign.net.au

Wellbeing Walk - Wednesday 28 October 10am – 12 noon

Sonja Elwood will lead you on a  relaxing walk through Warriewood Wetlands, where you’ll see them come alive with wildlife and spring flowering plants.

Bookings are open for all our FREE events – book now as spaces are limited! Ph: 9970 1600

For full details on all these events visit the library’s website at:www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/library

Learn more about Mental Health Month at: 

www.mental-health-month-nsw

 Gone Fishing Gallery at Waterfront Store Church Point

Open again TODAY in the top room Waterfront Store

Open mainly weekends as an addition to the waterfront cafe. 

Keep up to date on their Facebook page

 Folia - local artist Michelle Ball Exhibition‏

Painter Michelle Ball, stylist Vanessa Colyer Tay and photographer Sam Mcadam-Cooper join forces for Folia, their first show.

By day all three work in the magazine world and this exhibition was born from their mutual passion for the Australian bush.

Meet the artists at the opening on Thursday, October 22, at 6pm. 

The Shop Gallery, 112 Glebe Point Road, Glebe NSW.

Open 10am-6pm until October 30

For more information email: theshopgalleryglebe@gmail.com

Michelle Ball

Michelle grew up in Sydney, on the edge of coastal bush land. She studied art and filmmaking at Central, School of Art, Perth, WA, while spending time in Margaret River and on the Abrohlis Islands.

Shortly after, Michelle spent ten years living in New York where she worked as an Art Director and studied watercolour in her spare time.

She now lives with her family, on the edge of Ku ring gai Chase National Park and has become a passionate bush regenerator who studies and paints the landscape that surround her.

Currently, she is working towards a show called FOLIA exploring as she walks the bush tracks on Pittwaters Western foreshores, searching for images that share her emotions. With images of regrowth she intends to give the viewer a feeling of hope and optimism in a burnt out landscape.

“My intention is to continue drawing and painting details of what I see everyday, creating a poetic invitation that use nature to tell a story.”

DoggieRescue.com

Pet of the Week

Neville

AGE/SEX: 10 years / M

BREED: Maltese x

When Neville came from the pound he needed to stay at our vets for quite a while. He had the worst mouth our vet had ever seen. He was skinny and also had a double perineal hernias. After several surgeries Neville had all his teeth removed and his hernias repaired. He has gained weight and his hair has regrown. His ear infections have cleared. He is a sweet happy boy now. He has a non-shedding coat. He comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. His adoption cost is $350. 

For further details or to meet all dogs at call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email monika@DoggieRescue.com. Visit www.DoggieRescue.com to see all our dogs. www.facebook.com/doggierescue 

Front Page Issue 235: 

MC38 Spring Regatta, October 10-11, 2015 hosted Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, part of IdS weekend: day 1 and Day 2: Ginger earns highest honour at MC38 Spring Regatta by Lisa Ratcliff

Pictures: Lion Island Challenge 2015 - 10th Year of MEGA Paddle

Springtime Slitheries by Lynleigh Greig (Southern Cross Wildlife Care) - a guide to snakes on the Northern Beaches

KEEPING COMPANY: SALTWATER - new works by 45 Northern Beaches artists + 'Metamorphosis': exhibition of ceramics by fourteen students graduating from Northern Beaches Campus in Brookvale @ Manly Art Gallery & Museum 30 October — 29 November 2015

Lock Crowther Multihull Regatta 2015: 20th Anniversary and Presentation Dinner: Xena Takes the Trophy!

Australian Predators of the Sky by Penny Olsen - published by National Library of Australia: In Pittwater we are lucky to have both aquatic and land based raptors; more inspiration for National Bird Week 19 October to 25 October and the 2015 Bird Count

New Mental Health Study Supports Planning and Innovation in Services for Northern Beaches:  Mona Vale-based Partners in Recovery recently launched a new publication that shows the way forward for mental health on the Northern Beaches

Aquatics: State of the Beaches 2014–2015 Report: NSW Beach Scorecards Will Whet Summers' Appetite

Profile: Pittwater Outrigger Racing Club - The Pittwater Outriggers Canoe Club is 20 years old in 2015. The club is always keen to welcome new members whether they want to paddle socially to keep fit and meet new people or to compete in regattas around Australia.  The club has training sessions to suit absolute beginners, returning and competitive paddlers. This week an insight and Celebration into a Pittwater success story.

History: Pittwater Reserves - The Green Ways: Mona Vale's Village Greens a Map of the Historic Crown Lands Ethos Realised in The Village, Kitchener and Beeby Parks -  Pittwater reserves adjoin our beaches where small green spaces have been set aside so people may picnic, swing, play cricket, tennis, golf, soccer and rugby..or hold markets, let their horses graze...have a dance...

Artist of the Month: Artist of the Month October 2015 - Nat Bromhead: Pittwater Photography - Award winning  photo-journalist with a passion for beautiful Pittwater shares a few glorious images and a story about a drone that flew away...and didn't come back!

 Pittwater High School 30 Year Reunion in November

Pittwater High School 30 Year Reunion is on very soon. For Year 12 students from 1985 – our 30 year reunion is creeping up fast! So we need you to buy tickets by 15th October or we may have to cancel the event. That’s less than 2 weeks away!!

So get your tickets fast so we can keep planning for a fantastic catch-up at Bayview Golf Club on 7th November. 

All you have to do is click here  and follow the instructions.

Tickets are $70 till 15th October and then the price goes up to $75. But we need you to buy now so we don’t risk cancelling the event.

Where – Bayview Golf Club

When – Sat 7th November

Cost - $70 till 15th October, then $75.

Includes – Food & Entertainment, drinks @ club prices

Who – everyone who was in year 10 in 1983, or in year 12 in 1985

 Spithill and Jackson team-up for Extreme 40 showdown in Sydney 

October 7, 2015

Match racing champion Kate Spithill and Volvo Ocean Race sailor Stacey Jackson will head-up an all Australian crew as the wild card entry for the 2015 Extreme Sailing Series™ Act 8, Sydney presented by Land Rover.

It will be the first time an Extreme 40 team has been led by a female skipper since double Olympic gold medallist Shirley Robertson in 2009, and the duo will take on the fleet of eight elite Extreme 40s as they battle it out at the end of season showdown, from the 10–13 December. Spithill and Jackson will be joined onboard ‘33 South Racing’ (33SR) by multiple A-class world champion Steve Brewin and World Match Racing Tour sailor Henry Kernot, with a fifth crew member to be announced in the coming weeks.

Lining up alongside 40 of the world’s best sailors from 12 nations, the competition will be tough. “We know there are going to be some highly polished teams in the fleet. We are going to use every available minute in the build up to focus on preparing for the challenge that lies ahead,” said Spithill.

Training on Sydney Harbour throughout November in preparation for the Act, the 33SR crew will be hoping that home water advantage will play in their favour, after seeing Series heavyweights The Wave, Muscat walk away with the penultimate Act win last week in Istanbul with two races to spare.

After finishing her navigation around the world competing with Team SCA in the latest edition of the Volvo Ocean Race, Jackson is ready for the next challenge, trading in the open ocean for Stadium Racing within metres of the shore.

“To be able to sail in front of a home crowd with a completely Australian Team is really exciting, hopefully we will be able to hear the supporters cheering from the shore,” commented Jackson.

The Extreme Sailing Series Act 8, Sydney presented by Land Rover Race Village will be open to the public from Friday 11 December, located at Mrs Macquaries Point. It is free to enter and spectators can watch the unique Stadium Racing and cheer on their home team as the fleet fight to be crowned 2015 Extreme Sailing Series champions.

Find our more at www.extremesailingseries.com

Crew list

Kate Spithill (AUS) – Skipper

Stacey Jackson (AUS) - Bow/Trimmer

Steve Brewin (AUS) - Main

Henry Kernot (AUS) – Trimmer

 Time To Prepare For Bushfire Season

8 October 2015

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes is urging local residents to ensure their properties are prepared for this year’s bushfire season.

With a considerably hot and dry season expected, the NSW Rural Fire Service is warning residents in vulnerable areas to regularly clear their gutters, remove woodpiles, vegetation cuttings and flammable materials from around their homes, ensure easy access to long-length garden hoses and prepare a bushfire survival plan. 

“This is a crucial time of the year for all homeowners to inspect their properties and carry out any necessary works,” Rob Stokes said today.  

“A small effort now can make a huge difference in the event of an approaching fire.

“Bushfires have devastating impacts on communities and laziness can make the risks even greater. 

“The more preparation that’s done now the better protected we’ll be. 

“The frightening bushfires which swept through our community in 1994 are still fresh in the minds of many Pittwater residents and no one ever wants to see this repeated.

“More information on bushfire safety precautions and advice is available by visiting the NSW Rural Fire Service websitewww.rfs.nsw.gov.au 

“With the bushfire season upon us it’s vital we all heed the warnings and take necessary precautions to help protect our community,” Rob Stokes said.

 Dolphins At Avalon

By Lachlan Peknice: Published on Oct 4, 2015

Found this playful pod of dolphins while recording at Avalon. Taken with Phantom 3 in 4K (uploaded in 1080p). Enjoy......

 NEW SATURDAY NORTH FORT TOURS

02 October 2015:  Sydney Harbour Federation Trust

Commencing Saturday 7 November, and continuing over Summer, the Harbour Trust is now offering Saturday guided tours for our very popular North Fort tours. Our regular Sunday tours continue but you can now experience the WWII tunnels and more on Saturdays too. Visit our North Fort Tours page for more information.         

Want to see underground WWII tunnels? Take a 70 minute (approx) guided tour through WWII tunnels, gun emplacements and more at North Fort. Hear how North Fort contributed to the Defence of Sydney and enjoy magnificent views of the harbour.

When: Every Sunday (all year) & every Saturday (Summer from November to end February).

Times: Sundays - 10:30am, 11:30am, 1:00pm, 2:00pm.  Saturdays – 10:30am & 1pm 

Cost: $7 adult, $5 child/concession, $20 family (two adults and up to three concessions).  Please note payments can be made in cash or via EFTPOS but there is no ATM on site. 

Bookings: Saturdays & Sundays on site for that day only (Please note maximum participant numbers per tour apply).  

Where: North Fort - North Head Scenic Drive, Manly.

By car: Drive along North Head Scenic Drive, through Parkhill Archway and past roundabout. Continue for approx 2 kms. The entrance to North Fort is on your left and signposted. Follow the driveway through the stone wall to the car park inside. The Visitor Centre is next to the car park near the stone wall.

By foot: As above or if coming from Shelly Beach, walk through North Head Sanctuary (former School of Artillery) along the internal North Fort Rd and through the stone wall. Follow the road around to your right. The Visitor Centre is on your right below the car park.      

Conditions: Tour includes bush tracks, steep stairs and underground tunnels. A moderate level of fitness and reasonable mobility is required and visitors must wear sensible footwear.

Group Tours: Group tours are also available Mon - Fri by appointment. Minimum group size of 15, subject to guide availability.

Tel: (02) 8969 2100 - Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm

Please note in the event that a fire danger rating of extreme or catastrophic in the Greater Sydney region (area 4) is in place, as advised by Rural Fire Service, North Head will be closed.

 Green Army to help natural disaster recovery efforts

Media release; 6 October 2015  The Hon. Greg Hunt MP, Minister for the Environment

The Australian Government's Green Army is set to roll out in communities affected by natural disaster and severe storm damage - carrying out work that will see real improvements to the local environment.

I am pleased to announce that 44 projects under the Natural Disaster Recovery Round have been approved to commence over the next two years.

These projects will tackle recovery efforts across 16 Local Government Areas in New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria.

Projects will assist with vital environmental clean-up and rehabilitation works through re-establishing native vegetation, protecting threatened species and restoring aquatic ecosystems.

In Port Stephens, Green Army teams will be involved in erosion control that will not only restore vegetation to extensively damaged areas, but also build resilience to future natural disaster events.

Flood debris and invasive weeds will be removed from the Kooragang Ramsar wetland in the Hunter Valley in New South Wales which will restore habitat in these sensitive riparian zones.

At Mary River in Queensland, teams will work to reduce sediment and debris entering the catchment through revegetation and embankment rehabilitation.

These are just some examples of the important projects to be undertaken in partnership with groups such as Landcare and local councils that will help to rehabilitate local areas affected by natural disasters while providing young Australians with an opportunity to gain practical skills and training.

The Green Army is a major Government initiative with more than $700 million budgeted over four years. It is already a huge success with over 700 projects announced since it was launched and more that 400 projects already rolled out.

Green Army projects include restoring native vegetation, heritage restoration, protecting animal habitats and regenerating wetlands in urban, rural and remote areas.

A full list of approved Natural Disaster Recovery round projects is available at: www.australia.gov.au/greenarmy 

From this List:

Coastal Dune Recovery at Newport Beach through Restoration and Revegetation #1 #2 #3

This project will repair storm damage to the coastal dune system at Newport Beach, NSW, and a section of the Bicentennial Coastal Walkway at the northern end of the beach. The Green Army will focus primarily on invasive weed removal located over the dune system to ensure gaps created by the storm are not overrun. This will help to build resilience in the endemic species to out-compete the invasive species, provide stabilised dune system and native vegetation to inhibit wind and storm erosion and provide habitat for locally significant and migratory bird species.- NSW Pittwater Council Service Provider: Manpower

	PBLB 2015 OMLR Entry Form.pdf Size : 119.493 Kb  Type : pdf

Southern Cross Wildlife Care 

       Critter of the Month- October 2015: 

 Springtime Slitheries

Spring is a wonderful time of year!  The flowers are blooming, cute baby animals are emerging, people are just happier!  And Spring-time is when all our beautiful scaly creatures start getting active again.  

Not everyone is a fan of snakes, but mostly because they are a very misunderstood species…  They are essential to a healthy ecosystem.  Without them we would be overrun with rodents and other pests.  By keeping down the quantity of rodents, they reduce the occurrence of diseases carried by these and other pests.  

General Behaviour:

•    Contrary to popular belief, snakes are not out to ‘get us’ nor are they hiding and waiting to ambush us. 

•    They want nothing to do with us and tend to be shy and secretive.•    Their first line of defence is to slither away as fast as possible.  If we continue to pester them, they give warnings, such as hissing and ‘neck-flattening’.  If we still torment them, they might ‘strike’ or head-butt with a closed mouth.  In the case of venomous snakes, if they do bite, it is often a ‘dry’ bite i.e. no venom is injected.  Hospital statistics show that around 60% of patients submitted with snake bites turn out to have ‘dry’ bites.•    In pet-and-snake encounters, our domesticated pets are always the instigators.  Snakes won’t attack dogs or cats but will defend themselves if pounced upon. 

Interesting Snake Facts

•    There are roughly 3,000 species of snakes in the world.

•    Snakes are found on every continent except Antarctica  (and New Zealand only has sea-snakes).•    Snakes have no eyelids.•    All snakes are carnivores.•    Snakes have flexible jaws that allow them to eat prey bigger than their head!•    Snakes ‘smell’ with their tongue.•    Snakes don’t have external ears.•    Snakes are mistakenly called ‘cold-blooded’.  They are, in fact, ectothermic, which means that they rely on the outside environment for the temperature of their blood.•    Most snakes have no maternal instincts (with the exception of some pythons).  Finding a baby snake does not mean that ‘the mother and father must be close-by’.•    Not all snakes lay eggs.  Some give birth to live young e.g. red-bellied black snakes, death adders.•    An ‘expectant’ snake is referred to as being gravid, not pregnant.•    Most snakes are solitary animals and only get together during breeding season.•    Extreme fear of snakes is called Ophidiophobia.

The Most Common Species of Snakes on the Northern Beaches:

Diamond Python

 Morelia spilota spilota

Harmless and non-venomous

Diamond pythons are predominantly black in colour with yellow spots arranged in diamond-like shapes.  The average adult size is between 2m and 3m.

Diamond pythons are typically placid in nature and reluctant to bite.  They are mostly arboreal (tree-dwelling) but have been seen on roof-tops, curled up under trees or draped over fence-tops.  They prey on rodents, lizards, birds and mammals such as possums.  They are constrictors. 
 

Green Tree Snake

Dendrelaphis punctulata

Harmless and non-venomous

The Green Tree Snake is very slender, is greenish-blue on the body and bright yellow on the belly.  They have big black eyes and a very long, thin, prehensile tail.  They reach lengths of around 1.2m.

They are often seen on the ground which surprises people – given that they are tree snakes.  They come to ground to prey on frogs, skinks and fish. Gorgeous little creatures!

Golden-crowned Snake

Cacophis squamulosus

Mildly venomous – not considered dangerous

These little snakes are very secretive and are nocturnal so you’d be lucky to encounter one.  They’re dark brown to grey in colour with a pink belly.  They have a yellowish ‘halo’ or crown – hence their name.  Golden-crowned snakes tend to reach lengths of between 50cm – 75cm. They feed predominantly on lizards and occasionally frogs.

They are wonderful little snakes but they often get into trouble when cats pounce on them and bring them inside.  

Photo by Glenn Addison

Red-bellied Black Snake

Pseudechis porphyriacus

Venomous but very reluctant to bite or engage with humans or animals

The Red-bellied Black Snake is a gorgeous glossy black on top and red on the lower sides and belly.  The average-sized specimen is 1.2m - 1.5m.  They are often found near water and are excellent swimmers!   Their diet consists primarily of frogs.  

They are not an aggressive species and their first form of defence is always to escape.   They are often just moving through your property and should just be left alone.

How to Behave if you Encounter a Snake:

•   Snakes love to lie out on warm surfaces, basking in the sun.  You are most likely to encounter them on concrete walkways, on roads, on bush pathways or on warm rocks.  Snakes will almost always slither away into the nearby bushes if they see or feel you approaching.

•    If, however, they are asleep (which is hard for you to see as they don’t have eyelids to close) and don’t sense your approach – just stomp loudly from a good few metres away and they should awaken and slither away.

•    NEVER poke them with a stick, or attempt to hit them with an implement, don’t step on them or do anything to enter their strike-zone.  This is the only time they will become defensive and possibly strike.

What to do if you are bitten:

Unless you are trying to catch a snake or kill it, you are unlikely to ever be bitten.  However, in the unlikely event that you are, follow these 3 easy steps:

•   Do NOT wash the area of the bite – the hospital will take a swab at the bite site for the Venom Detection Kit (VDK).

•   Use a compression bandage at the bite site and then bandage all the way up the limb and down again.  

•   Sit down – don’t panic – and call an ambulance.

Never apply a torniquet!

There is no need to identify the snake.  The Venom Detection Kit in the hospital will process the venom from the swab and identify which antivenom is required. 

60% of snake-bites are ‘dry’ bites i.e. no venom is injected.

What to do if a Snake enters your Home or Property:
1.  Do not panic
2.  Keep people, children and pets away from the snake
3.  If the snake is outside, keep an eye on it and call for advice
4.  If the snake is in a room, close the door to that room and call Sydney Wildlife
 
Snakes have every right to be here and should be treated with respect. 
 
Do NOT attempt to kill ANY snake!!!  It is illegal and dangerous.  Generally, a snake will only become defensive if it is threatened.  Leave them and they will tend to move off of their own accord.  Or call Sydney Wildlife to have the animal relocated.
 

Sydney Wildlife:  9413 4300

Southern Cross Wildlife Care’s Dr Howard Ralph will treat any injured snake – venomous or non-venomous.

By Lynleigh Greig

Southern Cross Wildlife Care

Australia Day Awards 2016 

Nominate someone you know for their outstanding contribution to the Pittwater community. Entries in the Australia Day Awards are now open.

There are three award categories; the Pittwater Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year (under 26 years) and Sportsperson of the Year. 

Nominations close Friday 27 November 2015. Winners will be announced at an Australia Day Awards function in January.

Online nomination form

Printable nomination form

At:  www.pittwater.australia_day_awards 

Run a marathon in Japan

If you have ever held a burning desire to run in a marathon in Japan – now’s the time!   Mona Vale Library is seeking two Pittwater residents to run in the 2016 Senshu International City Marathon.

Pittwater Council’s friendship with the Tadaoka Town Government in Japan provides local runners with a chance to participate in the marathon in Tadaoka on 21 February 2016.

It’s an exciting opportunity for entrants who must be Pittwater residents, aged 18 and over. 

Mona Vale Library Services Manager, Cathy Howie said the exchange visit was a great chance for local runners to experience Japanese culture.

Last year’s participant from Avalon, Lachlan Arnold, couldn’t speak more highly of the warm and hospitable welcome he and his fellow participant, Lisa Tyndall received.

“The people of Tadaoka, from Mayor Wada to all of the people who cheered us on were so welcoming and treated us with the highest level of respect and kindness,” said Mr Arnold.

Mrs Howie said entrants would have their airfare from Sydney to Osaka paid for, along with the costs of accommodation. The period entrants would be away is from 18-23 February 2016.

Participants are expected to have run at least one marathon before and to be Australian citizens.

Those interested can pick up an application pack (with the selection criteria) from Mona Vale Library or download one form the website:www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/library

Please express your interest by email toheather_thomson@pittwater.nsw.gov.au by Friday 6 November 2015.  For more information: Heather Thomson: 9970 1614

Imagine Mona Vale - Engagement Summary for Mona Vale Place Plan‏

Pittwater Council is pleased to share Imagine Mona Vale,Engagement Summary for Mona Vale Place Plan.  (PDF – 9.64MB) 

This engagement summary documents the ideas, inspiration and activations that have been generated for Mona Vale town centre over an 18 month period in consultation with the community and stakeholders. It summarises key elements of the Mona Vale place planning process undertaken between January 2014 and June 2015.

Imagine Mona Vale - Engagement Summary follows on from Mona Vale Snapshot. Mona Vale Snapshot is a scoping document, which provides baseline information about how Mona Vale town centre is operating and offers an explanation of the place planning process that is being applied to Mona Vale.

Feedback has been grouped into themes presented through the recent Urban Talks Series and community engagement activities. These themes have provided the framework for capturing key ideas about place planning. Sometimes overlapping, these themes are the fundamental components of what makes a successful, prosperous place.

Some of the key activations undertaken over this 18 month period were:

• Village Economies Summit and Mona Vale Long Lunch

• Q&A panels

• Workshops and open house

• Staff workshops

• Place making events

• Place audits

• Web and social media

For more details download the Engagement Summary document or visit our website.

 Newport Public School FeteOctober 17 

The Newport school fete is one fun family day not to be missedSaturday 17th October 10-3pm! 

Rides, Live Entertainment, Haunted House, Side Show Alley, Tombola, Food stalls, Dunking Machine, Raffles, Auctions, a Photo Comp, Books and Plant stalls, Show bags, Craft corner and more...hope to see you there. 

Thank you to our major sponsors LJ Hooker Newport Winning Appliances

 Bus Rapid Transit Interchange at Mona Vale 

Mona Vale Residents Association

September 22 , 2015 

Investigative Drilling is currently being undertaken in Beeby Park Mona Vale and Village Park Mona Vale by Transport NSW. They are looking at potential sites to build the bus rapid transit interchange. A number of sights are being looked at around the MV CBD.

MVRA contact Transport NSW this week and found out there are 5-6 sites under investigation around Mona Vale.

The state owned Bus depot in Darley Strett is also being looked at as a potential transport hub. This is a site that the Mona Vale Residents Association think should be seriously considered as it will not have an impact on green open space and will be far better for traffic movements. 

We are now seeking a meeting regarding this matter with Transport NSW. It is disappointing that communication with the community had completely been ignored. 

Pictures courtesy Mark Horton

Mona Vale Library values mental health this month

2 October, 2015

Mona Vale Library is profiling a number of free events during October for Mental Health Month.

Mental Health Month NSW is part of a national mental health promotion campaign held throughout October each year.

The timing of the campaign centres on World Mental Health Day, which happens each year on 10 October.

This year’s theme is ‘Value Your Mind’ and the events the library has planned – help you do just that.

There’s a range of mental health and wellbeing topics which will provide food for thought as well as access to a wide range of resources.

Pittwater Council’s Mayor, Jacqui Townsend said this was another fine example of Mona Vale Library being a social hub for our community.

“Local residents are invited to come along to a variety of events ranging from laughter yoga to Bridge and all things in between,” added Cr Townsend.

Choose from one or all of the following events during October:

The Body in Emotional Balance - Monday 12 October, 10.30am – 12noon

David Hall will hold an experiential talk on the Feldenkrais Method and explore how it can be used to enhance wellbeing and emotional health. www.bodylogic.net.au

Author talk - Thursday 15 October 6.30pm - -8pm

Sophie Hardcastle will discuss her book Running Like China, a memoir which describes her struggle with Bipolar Disorder and her quest to change the lives of young people living with mental illness. Come early to enjoy the refreshments provided.www.sophiehardcastle.com

Bridge - Friday 16 October, 10.30am – 12 noon

Cath Whiddon speaking about Bridge - the world’s most popular mind sport! Start learning and playing this fascinating game.

Literary lunch - Thursday 22 October 12 noon – 1.30pm

Bettina Deda, Interior stylist and author of Downsizing with Style, will talk about how empty nesters can maintain wellbeing whilst downsizing with style and function. www.bdcolourdesign.net.au

Wellbeing Walk - Wednesday 28 October 10am – 12 noon

Sonja Elwood will lead you on a  relaxing walk through Warriewood Wetlands, where you’ll see them come alive with wildlife and spring flowering plants.

Bookings are open for all our FREE events – book now as spaces are limited! Ph: 9970 1600

For full details on all these events visit the library’s website at:www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/library

Learn more about Mental Health Month at: 

www.mental-health-month-nsw

 Gone Fishing Gallery at Waterfront Store Church Point

Open again TODAY in the top room Waterfront Store

Open mainly weekends as an addition to the waterfront cafe. 

Keep up to date on their Facebook page

Bilgola Plateau Public School Celebrating 50 Years: 16 October 2015 4:00pm - 8:00pm

Bilgola Plateau Public School is fabulous and fifty! The amazing school on the hill will celebrate its 50th Anniversary with a Twilight Celebration on Friday 16 October.  The 50th Anniversary Twilight Celebration will begin at 4:00pm and conclude at 8:00pm.

During the celebration current and past Bilgola Plateau Public School community members are encouraged to explore the school via the 50 th Anniversary Student Art Exhibition Trail, visit our newly created museum and view our Bilgola Plateau Public School Movie and BilgolaFest student movie offerings. Food vans will be onsite with delicious dinner options and lots of rides are on offer to entertain the children. 

The official 50th Anniversary Ceremony will occur at 5:30pm. During the ceremony we will cut the cake, reveal the contents of the time capsule buried in 1988 during Bicentenary celebrations and enjoy performances from our talented students. Our choir will sing a school song medley and our dance groups and bands will take you back in time by dancing and performing some sixties hits.  All three bands will play along with a premiere performance of the Bilgola Plateau Public School Reunion Band. All past band members are encouraged to bring their instrument to the Twilight Celebration and join in a mass band performance. Please email the school at bilgolapla-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au if you are a past Bilgola Plateau Public School Band member and you are interested in joining the Reunion Band performance.

If you are a past Bilgola Plateau Public School student please come and help us celebrate 50 years of being amazing. Please spread the word to your school mates!

 Folia - local artist Michelle Ball Exhibition‏

Painter Michelle Ball, stylist Vanessa Colyer Tay and photographer Sam Mcadam-Cooper join forces for Folia, their first show.

By day all three work in the magazine world and this exhibition was born from their mutual passion for the Australian bush.

Meet the artists at the opening on Thursday, October 22, at 6pm. 

The Shop Gallery, 112 Glebe Point Road, Glebe NSW.

Open 10am-6pm until October 30

For more information email: theshopgalleryglebe@gmail.com

Michelle Ball

Michelle grew up in Sydney, on the edge of coastal bush land. She studied art and filmmaking at Central, School of Art, Perth, WA, while spending time in Margaret River and on the Abrohlis Islands.

Shortly after, Michelle spent ten years living in New York where she worked as an Art Director and studied watercolour in her spare time.

She now lives with her family, on the edge of Ku ring gai Chase National Park and has become a passionate bush regenerator who studies and paints the landscape that surround her.

Currently, she is working towards a show called FOLIA exploring as she walks the bush tracks on Pittwaters Western foreshores, searching for images that share her emotions. With images of regrowth she intends to give the viewer a feeling of hope and optimism in a burnt out landscape.

“My intention is to continue drawing and painting details of what I see everyday, creating a poetic invitation that use nature to tell a story.”

 Newport Beach Arts Market

The NEWPORT BEACH ARTS MARKET is the launch event for the annual Newport Sculpture Trail, with the market’s theme “inspired by the sea”.

In 2015 the beach arts market will take place in the heart of Newport from 6 to 9pm on Friday the 13th of November.

For the event, we are looking for street performing artists and market stallholders offering arts, crafts, homewares or services “inspired by the sea”.

We are also offering an opportunity for schools, artist collectives and other community groups to participate in the launch event by creating light sculpture installations to showcase their organisations and work at the launch event for free. Read more here.

For performing artist enquiries call 0415 662 918 or emailinfo@beachartsmarket.com

For market stallholder information and application forms click here

 Greater transparency in local rezoning decisions

September 2nd, 2015: Ministerial Media Release; The Hon. Rob Stokes MP, Minister for Planning

Planning Minister Rob Stokes today announced the government will replace the Pre-Gateway review process with a simpler, faster and clearer rezoning assessment.

The current process, known as the Pre-Gateway review, allows a review where a council refused or failed to respond to an application to amend local planning rules. 

Reforms for the new rezoning review process include:

.Strengthening the test for the review of an existing zoning to ensure rezonings only proceed where they exhibit clear strategic merit;

.Review requests to the Department of Planning will be referred to Joint Regional Planning Panels or the Planning Assessment Commission within three days;

.Ensuring the council is aware a rezoning request has been sent to the Department within five days of receipt;

.Increasing the independence of the process by the Panel or the Commission, carrying out the assessment and determine the rezoning; and

.Making the Panel or Commission the Relevant Planning Authority where a council refuses a request to act as the Relevant Planning Authority, or does not respond to that request within 42 days.

“We’ve listened to community concerns about unexpected rezonings undermining confidence in local planning. That’s why we will reform the process of reviewing a council’s decision with a presumption against rezoning unless there is a compelling reason for change,” Mr Stokes said.

“While it’s appropriate that council decisions can be tested before an independent panel, this opportunity needs to be transparent and balanced.

“We need a planning system that supports sustainable growth in a timely, independent and orderly process, which is exactly what this reformed rezoning review is designed to achieve.

“These reforms will stop the revolving door of planning proposals going back and forth between councils and the community by strengthening the test for a review, making the process faster, simpler and clearer.”

To view the report, go to www.planning.nsw.gov.au/onexhibition

_________________________

View the proposed changes to the pre-Gateway review (PDF: 921.41 kb) and read the FAQs for more information. 

Comments can be made by emailing:pregatewayreview@planning.nsw.gov.au  

or writing to the Executive Director, Regions, Department of Planning and Environment, GPO Box 39, Sydney, NSW 2001.

Comments on the proposed changes are invited up to 14 October 2015.

 NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR 2016 AUSTRALIA COUNCIL AWARDS

07 October 2015

The Australia Council is calling for nominations to recognise the outstanding achievements and significant contributions made by individuals to the arts across seven art forms at the 2016 Australia Council Awards. 

These prestigious national awards pay tribute to the remarkable accomplishments of leading Australian artists to our arts and cultural landscape in the fields of music, literature, community arts and cultural development, visual arts, theatre, dance, and emerging and experimental arts.

Australia Council Chief Executive Officer Tony Grybowski said the awards were the highest accolade the Council could bestow, and recognising the contributions made by eminent artists in their respective art forms was an important part of the Council’s mandate to invest in and champion Australian arts and artists. 

“The awards are an acknowledgement of the significant achievements and contribution an artist has made to the vibrancy of Australian arts,” Mr Grybowski said.

“Previous recipients include some of Australia’s most esteemed artists who are highly respected by their peers and audiences.  

“These awards give us the opportunity to reflect on their considerable body of work and the impact they have had on the arts in Australia and internationally.”

Nominations are being sought for the following categories:

• Australia Council Award for Lifetime Achievement in Literature

• Australia Council Don Banks Music Award

• Australia Council Visual Arts Award

• Australia Council Award for Outstanding Achievement in Emerging & Experimental Arts

• Australia Council Award for Outstanding Achievement in Dance

• Australia Council Award for Outstanding Achievement in Theatre

• Ros Bower Award (Community Arts and Cultural Development)

• Kirk Robson Award (Community Arts and Cultural Development)

Nominations close on Thursday, 12 November and the winners will be announced at a ceremony in March. 

For more information go to: australiacouncil.gov.australia-council-awards

ABOUT THE AWARDS

The Australia Council Award for Lifetime Achievement in Literature, formerly the Writers’ Emeritus Award, acknowledges the achievements of eminent literary writers over the age of 60 who have made an outstanding and lifelong contribution to Australian literature.  Past winners include Thomas Keneally (2015), Frank Moorhouse AM (2013), Herb Wharton (2012), the late Christopher Koch (2007) and Ruby Langford Ginibi (2005).

The Australia Council Don Banks Music Award honours a distinguished artist aged over 50 who has made an outstanding and sustained contribution to music in Australia.  It is named in honour of Don Banks, acclaimed Australian composer, performer and the first Chair of the Council’s Music Board.  Past winners include Archie Roach (2015) Mike Nock (2014), Kev Carmody (2013), Jon Rose (2012), Belinda Webster (2011) and Warren Fahey (2010).

The Australia Council Visual Arts Award acknowledges the exceptional achievements of an Australian visual artist who has made an outstanding contribution to the development of Australian art.  Past winners include Judy Watson (2015), Fiona Foley (2014), Tracey Moffatt (2012), and Fiona Hall (2011).

The Ros Bower Award is given to artists with a proven record of high achievement in community arts and cultural development, driven by the principles of equality, respect, and diversity.  It is named in honour of Ros Bower, a journalist, television producer, community arts pioneer and founding Director of Council’s first Community Arts Board.

The Kirk Robson Award recognises outstanding leadership from young artists and arts professionals working in community arts and cultural development, particularly in reconciliation and social justice. It was established to honour the memory of Kirk Robson, recipient of the Council’s Young and Emerging Artists Initiative. Past winners of the Ros Bower and Kirk Robson awards include Tony Doyle, Lockie McDonald, Alyson Evans and Alysha Hermann.

The Australia Council Award for Emerging & Experimental Arts

The Australia Council Award for Dance

The Australia Council Award for Theatre

These three awards were first presented in 2015 to recognise the outstanding achievements and considerable contribution of artists in these three art forms. The inaugural awards were given to Stelarc for Emerging and Experimental Arts, Garry Stewart for Dance and Bruce Gladwin for Theatre

DoggieRescue.com

Pet of the Week

Rex

AGE/SEX: 1 year 

BREED: Schnauzer x Terrier

Rex is a lively but affectionate boy. He is social with other dogs. Very active on a walk to start with but calms down after 5 mins and is very affectionate. He enjoys cuddles and can be picked up by strangers. He licks walkers faces. He has a scruffy terrier coat and weighs 9-10kg. He comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. His adoption cost is $350.

For further details or to meet all dogs at call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email monika@DoggieRescue.com. Visit www.DoggieRescue.com to see all our dogs. www.facebook.com/doggierescue 

 Boomerang Bags: sewing the seeds of change

Our workshops are still continuing every Tuesday at the Avalon Rec Centre from 11am until 5pm. Please come down and find out more about how it all works.

You do not need to be a sewer to be involved. We have many non sewing jobs. 

For those who cannot make the Tuesday workshop but would like to help we have several options. For sewers we can drop off some "ready to sew" bags to be done in your own time. For non sewers contact us for more information on how you can help from home.

We also have some items for sale . You can buy a beautiful "Bought to Support" version of Boomerang Bags ( $10) and a lovely ceramic reusable coffee mug ($15.00). So start reducing your plastic use now. Contact us for more information. 

For anyone who is on Facebook we now have a group. Search forBoomerang Bags Avalon. 

Click on logo above to visit their website.

 LEGO AT THE LIBRARY

Local children will have the chance to join a club specialising in one of the most enduring playthings of childhood. Mona Vale Library has started a Lego club on the first Sunday of each month from 2pm to 4pm. Next is October 4th 2015. The club is open to children aged between seven and twelve years of age, with younger children welcome with parental supervision. If you are interested in attending a Lego at the Library session contact the library on 9970 1622 or book in person at the library, 1 Park Street, Mona Vale.

Front Page Issue 234: 

NO Amalgamation Chant Becomes Louder in Pittwater: Rally at Local MP's Office

ASC, BYRA, and RPAYC Youth Sailors at 2015 Yachting NSW Youth Championships This Long Weekend - Day 1 and Day 2 Reports by Lisa Ratcliff

Submariner, sailor and boating safety advocate take out NSW Maritime Awards: Manly's Captain Tim Swales, Avalon's David Lyall, and Peter Hunter 

Hawaii Champion To Compete in Pittwater Ocean Swim Series 2015/16 by John Guthrie

National Bird Week October 19-25  and the 2015 the Aussie Back Yard Bird Count: Australia's First Bird Counts - a 115 Year Legacy - with a small insight into our first zoos

Surf Lifesavers Make The Most Of Development Camp by Surf Life Saving NSW

Collector's Corner:  Commanderie St. John: An Ancient Wine - From 1927 with Lineage to Cyprus in 1210/92 and Methods of Production to Greece in 800 B.C. 

Reflections by George Repin: GALLERY OF PHOTOGRAPHS III

Pictures: Royal Motor Yacht Club Broken Bay Mutihull Division Hosts the 2015 Lock Crowther Regatta on Pittwater

Aquatics: Darren Bundock and Nina Curtis Win Silver Medal at 2015 Nacra 17 European Championship in Barcelona

Food: Cafe Edelweiss and The German Butchery at Mona Vale: Hidden Gems of Authentic German finesse

DIY Ideas: BOM Forecasts for Hot Dry Summer Weather - Keeping Your Garden and Home Cool in Hot Weather

Profile: Meet the Four New Presidents and A New Club Captain in our Sydney-Northern Beaches Branch by SLS SNB: Andy Cross (South Narrabeen SLSC) Richard Cole (Avalon Beach SLSC) Frank Traugott (North Steyne SLSC), Peter Kinsey (Long Reef SLSC) and New Club Captain: Alex Tyrrell (Palm Beach SLSC)

History: Pittwater Reserves: The Green Ways Bilgola Beach - The Cabbage Tree Gardens and Camping Grounds - Includes Bilgola - The Story Of A Politician, A Pilot and An Epicure by Tony Dawson and Anne Spencer  Pittwater reserves adjoin our beaches where small green spaces have been set aside so people may picnic, swing, play

Artist of the Month: Artist of the Month October 2015 - Nat Bromhead: Pittwater Photography - Award winning  photo-journalist with a passion for beautiful Pittwater shares a few glorious images and a story about a drone that flew away...and didn't come back!

 Daylight Saving began today – it may be later than you think!

4 Oct 2015 - Daylight Saving Time Starts

Sunday, 4 October 2015, 2:00:00 AM clocks are turned forward 1 hour to Sunday, 4 October 2015, 3:00:00 AM local daylight time instead

Sunrise and sunset will be about 1 hour later on 4 Oct 2015 than the day before. There will be more light in the evening

 2015 Surf Life Saving Australia National Awards of Excellence

Newport, Warriewood, Palm Beach, North Narrabeen and Avalon Beach SLSC Members are Nominees in the lists published this week by Surf Life Saving Australia for the 2015 Surf Life Saving Australia National Awards of Excellence:   

SLSA Athlete of the Year  -  Georgia Miller, Newport slsc

SLSA Coach of the Year - Trent Herring

Meritorious Awards 

Name          Club 

Elena Damianopoulos  Floreat SLSC 

Avan Christie  Evans Head/Casino SLSC 

Bruce Kelly          North Narrabeen SLSC 

Richard Garney  Cronulla SLSC 

Lucas Toms          South Marboura 

Graham Toms  South Marboura 

Craig Zulian          Towradgi SLSC 

Adriaan Van der Wallen  Palm Beach SLSC 

Emma Jackson  Kurrawa SLSC 

Desleigh Jones  Dicky Beach SLCS 

Bev Tilbury          Warriewood SLSC 

Russell Lamb  Warriewood SLSC 

Jen Spencer          Warriewood SLSC 

Kerry McEwan  Avalon Beach SLSC 

Kate Munro          Avalon Beach SLSC 

Donna Wishart  Avalon Beach SLSC 

Danny Smyth          ALS WA 

Pete Geal          ALS WA 

Janek Ferrandi          ALS WA 

Wesfarmers Lifesaving Team Albany SLSC 

North Bondi SLSC 

Redhead SLSC 

Macksville-Scotts Head SLSC

A number of dedicated volunteers will be finalists in the National Recognition Awards. Hear their stories, share your own, catch up with old friends and enjoy the company of fellow surf lifesavers. We are all working towards saving lives, creating great Australians and building better communities now and in the future.

Date: Saturday 24 October, 2015

When: 5:00pm for a 6:00pm start

Where: Awards Ceremony: Sydney City Recital Hall, 2-12 Angel Pl Sydney NSW 2000

Cocktail Function: Sunroom (Level 3) The Ivy, 330 George Street Sydney NSW 2000

Cost: $120 per person (inc GST)

Dress: Cocktail including a splash of red or yellow

RSVP: Friday 16 October, 2015

Tickets at:  sls.com.au/national-awards-excellence-2015

Top: Adriaan Van der Wallen

Hungover? You’re Over

30 Sep 2015

Over the long weekend, revellers are being asked to embrace the “Walk of Shame.”

The “Hungover? You’re Over” campaign evolved in response to a significant proportion of drink drive offences occurring the morning after a big night out and encourages drinkers to plan their next day transport arrangements ahead of time.

A hangover occurs as our body tries to reset all the changes alcohol has caused it to undergo, however a hangover is not a sign that the alcohol has gone from our bloodstream, the symptoms are just part of the withdrawal process.

Physical “morning after” symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors, shaking and sweating. However disturbed sleep, fatigue, anxiety, irritability and decreased concentration, mean that your performance on the road is likely to be less than legal. 

Superintendent Dave Darcy, of NSW Police explained “If you have a Blood Alcohol Concentration of just 0.05, you will double your chances of a crash, combine this with the fatigue of a late night and being hungover and your chances are even higher.”

The NSW Police conduct random breath testing at all times of the day and night. Double demerits also apply over the long weekend, so considering the mid-range drink drive penalty is 6 months loss of licence and a possible $2,200 fine; it would be wiser to call a cab.

Tag a friend who’s had a big night out on the “Hungover? You’re Over” Facebook Page, and get them to embrace the Walk of Shame and visit  www.ruoverit.com.au where you can calculate how long you should leave before getting behind the wheel.

Almost 15,000 drivers in NSW have blown over the legal blood alcohol limit between 5am and 1pm over the past 5 years, (NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research) people know they mustn’t drink and drive but just don’t appreciate how long it takes to be alcohol free.

Manly, Pittwater and Warringah Councils are working with the Northern Sydney Local Health District and Northern Beaches Liquor Accord to spread the message and offer simple advice.

• Plan your next day activities carefully

• Use public transport to get around or arrange for a friend or family member to give you a lift…as long as they weren’t drinking with you the night before!

• Take time to recover from your hangover

• Embrace the Walk of Shame.

Australia Day Awards 2016 

Nominate someone you know for their outstanding contribution to the Pittwater community. Entries in the Australia Day Awards are now open.

There are three award categories; the Pittwater Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year (under 26 years) and Sportsperson of the Year. 

Nominations close Friday 27 November 2015. Winners will be announced at an Australia Day Awards function in January.

Online nomination form

Printable nomination form

At:  www.pittwater.australia_day_awards 

Run a marathon in Japan

30 Sep 2015

If you have ever held a burning desire to run in a marathon in Japan – now’s the time!   Mona Vale Library is seeking two Pittwater residents to run in the 2016 Senshu International City Marathon.

Pittwater Council’s friendship with the Tadaoka Town Government in Japan provides local runners with a chance to participate in the marathon in Tadaoka on 21 February 2016.

It’s an exciting opportunity for entrants who must be Pittwater residents, aged 18 and over. 

Mona Vale Library Services Manager, Cathy Howie said the exchange visit was a great chance for local runners to experience Japanese culture.

Last year’s participant from Avalon, Lachlan Arnold, couldn’t speak more highly of the warm and hospitable welcome he and his fellow participant, Lisa Tyndall received.

“The people of Tadaoka, from Mayor Wada to all of the people who cheered us on were so welcoming and treated us with the highest level of respect and kindness,” said Mr Arnold.

Mrs Howie said entrants would have their airfare from Sydney to Osaka paid for, along with the costs of accommodation. The period entrants would be away is from 18-23 February 2016.

Participants are expected to have run at least one marathon before and to be Australian citizens.

Those interested can pick up an application pack (with the selection criteria) from Mona Vale Library or download one form the website:www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/library

Please express your interest by email toheather_thomson@pittwater.nsw.gov.au by Friday 6 November 2015.  For more information: Heather Thomson: 9970 1614

Imagine Mona Vale - Engagement Summary for Mona Vale Place Plan‏

Pittwater Council is pleased to share Imagine Mona Vale,Engagement Summary for Mona Vale Place Plan.  (PDF – 9.64MB) 

This engagement summary documents the ideas, inspiration and activations that have been generated for Mona Vale town centre over an 18 month period in consultation with the community and stakeholders. It summarises key elements of the Mona Vale place planning process undertaken between January 2014 and June 2015.

Imagine Mona Vale - Engagement Summary follows on from Mona Vale Snapshot. Mona Vale Snapshot is a scoping document, which provides baseline information about how Mona Vale town centre is operating and offers an explanation of the place planning process that is being applied to Mona Vale.

Feedback has been grouped into themes presented through the recent Urban Talks Series and community engagement activities. These themes have provided the framework for capturing key ideas about place planning. Sometimes overlapping, these themes are the fundamental components of what makes a successful, prosperous place.

Some of the key activations undertaken over this 18 month period were:

• Village Economies Summit and Mona Vale Long Lunch

• Q&A panels

• Workshops and open house

• Staff workshops

• Place making events

• Place audits

• Web and social media

For more details download the Engagement Summary document or visit our website.

	PBLB 2015 OMLR Entry Form.pdf Size : 119.493 Kb  Type : pdf

 Ingleside RFB Member Completes Breathing Apparatus course - Members Continue Assisting in Hazard Reduction

Ingleside Rural Fire Brigade: October 3, 2015  

Ingleside recently had a volunteer on the Breathing Apparatus course, which also included the Advanced Structural Fire-fighting component. This course runs over 6 full days, including night time training sessions. It's not just bushfire RFS volunteers confront, but many other incidents such as house fires and other areas where we can work in toxic environments such as vehicle & truck fires. Congrats Ben.....

The course is both the general Breathing Apparatus course plus the Advanced Structural Fire-fighting course. So 6 full weekend days of instruction which includes theory and practical components.

On Saturday, October 3rd 2015, Ingleside and Belrose NSWRFS volunteers from ‪Warringah‬ and ‎Pittwater‬ District are assisting the Hills ‪‎RFS‬ District at Glenorie with a 174Ha Hazard Reduction Burn today. 20 trucks, bulk water and a helicopter‬ involved.

Photos courtesy Ingleside RFB

 THE CAR IS SAFE - NO HOLE-IN-ONE AT SNB GOLF DAY

October Shorebreak Newsletter 2015 - SLS SNB

Avalon Beach SLSC took out the handicap

Drop-Out Ambrose at the annual SLS Sydney Northern Beaches Golf Day at the Bayview Club last month.

As the main fundraiser for the Sydney Northern Branch team to contest the NSW Interbranch Championships at Cape Hawke later in the year, the Bill Buckle Group provided a VW Polo as the big prize if anyone could hit a hole in one.

Alas, it didn’t happen.

Newport had the best scratch score at the event on September 18. Young Sea Eagles prop Jake Trbojevic was a member of that team. ‘’I haven’t been playing golf very long but the Ambrose is a lot of fun,’’ Jake said.

Other prize winners included Collaroy Beach Club, Built Constructions, representing North Curl Curl, Freshwater SLSC and the Mortgage Professionals.

Organiser Bob Langbein thanked all players for their support and made special mention of sponsors Bill Buckle and the North Curl Curl SLSC. They were presented with special certificates. “North Curl Curl’s contribution over the past 10 years has been magnificent. They have provided most teams during that period,’’ said Bob.

BILL BUCKLE EXTENDS SPONSORSHIP FOR TWO MORE YEARS

Sydney Northern Beaches Branch is pleased to announce that the Bill Buckle Group has come on board as major sponsor of the Branch Open Championships for a further two years.

Northern Beaches Jaguar Landrover have had the naming rights for the past two years. “But as far as a broader appeal for people, this year we are going to align Bill Buckle Subaru,’’ says Dealer Principal Andrew Brown. “In agreeing to sponsor the sport for two more years, it means we will have made a four year commitment.’’

The Branch Open Championships will be held at Palm Beach on February 13.

“The Subaru provides a broader range of product and a broader range to the general community. Therefore, there is that broader appeal, from the Subaru Impreza, Forester, XV and Liberty and into Outback,’’ says Mr Brown.

“What we want to do is put back into the community as well and we find, particularly in this area, that surf life saving is a good cause for us.

“What we get back out of that we’d like to think that there would be some loyalty come back from that and we already know that many of surf lifesavers on the northern beaches are customers of ours. So, in some respects, it is paying back to the community.’’ As part of the annual SNB Golf Day at

Bayview Golf Club on September 18, Bill Buckle put up aVW Polo as a prize if anyone could hit a hole in one. The car went back to the Brookvale showroom.

Apart from the Branch, Mr Brown said Bill Buckle will also be sponsoring the North Curl Curl Nipper Program and Bill Buckle Toyota will be major sponsors of the Freshwater Australia Day carnival.

“This is the first time we’ve been involved in that,’’ he said.

“The fact that a majority of staff are northern beaches people and over 70 per cent of vehicles we sell on the northern beaches, it is only right for us to get more community involved .

“And we are looking to do a lot more in a lot of areas going forward.’’

Picture (above Andrew Brown (left) with SNB Director Lance Barnes, Branch President Doug Menzies and Kevin Green at the Golf Day.

 Newport Public School FeteOctober 17 

The Newport school fete is one fun family day not to be missedSaturday 17th October 10-3pm! 

Rides, Live Entertainment, Haunted House, Side Show Alley, Tombola, Food stalls, Dunking Machine, Raffles, Auctions, a Photo Comp, Books and Plant stalls, Show bags, Craft corner and more...hope to see you there. 

Thank you to our major sponsors LJ Hooker Newport Winning Appliances

 Statewide safe boating operation heralds new boating season

29 September 2015: RMS

Boaters are urged to check their vessel and equipment are in good operating condition with the first statewide boating education and compliance campaign under way to coincide with the start of the new boating season this weekend.

Roads and Maritime Services General Manager Boating Operations said Operation Boatsafe: Be Prepared would continue through until Monday 5 October.

“Roads and Maritime Services Boating Safety Officers and Boating Education Officers across NSW will be engaging with people on the water and at boat ramps, clubs and other waterside locations to promote safe and responsible boating,” Mr Hunter said.

“Boating is a popular pastime with almost 500,000 people who hold a NSW boat licence, many thousands more who enjoy boating as passengers or crew and almost 240,000 registered vessels.

“With the arrival of spring and the next boating season starting on the October long weekend, now is the time to check the boat, motor and equipment are in good working order as the major causes of breakdown at sea are engine failure, fuel shortage or contamination, mechanical failure and battery failure.

“It is also the time to check all lifejackets, especially inflatable models, to ensure they are in good condition and have been serviced according to the manufacturer’s requirements. People should wear a lifejacket when boating, especially in smaller craft.

“Other boating safety equipment should also be carefully inspected and items like flares, distress beacons and fire extinguishers should be replaced if they have passed their expiry date.

“Now is also the time to pay attention to the condition of boat trailers, with appropriate maintenance or service. Boats kept on moorings should have their moorings serviced at least annually or more frequently if subject to specific mooring conditions.

“Roads and Maritime strongly recommends the service be carried out by a professional mooring contractor.

“Boaters should ensure up-to-date charts and local boating maps are on board for each and every new waterway being explored, and ensure boating lights are in working order regardless of whether a boat trip is only planned for the day time.”

For a complete list of the safety equipment that must be carried on your boat, check your copy of the Boating Handbook  (PDF: 1.13MB) 

 Bus Rapid Transit Interchange at Mona Vale 

Mona Vale Residents Association

September 22 , 2015 

Investigative Drilling is currently being undertaken in Beeby Park Mona Vale and Village Park Mona Vale by Transport NSW. They are looking at potential sites to build the bus rapid transit interchange. A number of sights are being looked at around the MV CBD.

MVRA contact Transport NSW this week and found out there are 5-6 sites under investigation around Mona Vale.

The state owned Bus depot in Darley Strett is also being looked at as a potential transport hub. This is a site that the Mona Vale Residents Association think should be seriously considered as it will not have an impact on green open space and will be far better for traffic movements. 

We are now seeking a meeting regarding this matter with Transport NSW. It is disappointing that communication with the community had completely been ignored. 

Pictures courtesy Mark Horton

Mona Vale Library values mental health this month

2 October, 2015

Mona Vale Library is profiling a number of free events during October for Mental Health Month.

Mental Health Month NSW is part of a national mental health promotion campaign held throughout October each year.

The timing of the campaign centres on World Mental Health Day, which happens each year on 10 October.

This year’s theme is ‘Value Your Mind’ and the events the library has planned – help you do just that.

There’s a range of mental health and wellbeing topics which will provide food for thought as well as access to a wide range of resources.

Pittwater Council’s Mayor, Jacqui Townsend said this was another fine example of Mona Vale Library being a social hub for our community.

“Local residents are invited to come along to a variety of events ranging from laughter yoga to Bridge and all things in between,” added Cr Townsend.

Choose from one or all of the following events during October:

Colouring in for Adults  - Tuesday 6 October 10am - 6 pm & Tuesday 20 October

The perfect way to relax, relieve stress and be creative! Can you stay between the lines? Books and pencils will be provided. Location: The Beaton Room

Suicide awareness talk - Wednesday 7 October 12 - 1.30pm

Local Counsellor and Psychotherapist Liz Whyte will give an introductory talk on suicide awareness.  A light lunch will be provided.

Laughter Yoga - Thursday 8 October 11 -11.45am

Oxygenate your body and brain: Laughter Yoga with Jackie Curran. Feel the benefits of a complete wellbeing workout.http://laughterlawyer.com.au

Location: Mona Vale Village Park or Mona Vale Library (wet weather alternative)

The Body in Emotional Balance - Monday 12 October, 10.30am – 12noon

David Hall will hold an experiential talk on the Feldenkrais Method and explore how it can be used to enhance wellbeing and emotional health. www.bodylogic.net.au

Author talk - Thursday 15 October 6.30pm - -8pm

Sophie Hardcastle will discuss her book Running Like China, a memoir which describes her struggle with Bipolar Disorder and her quest to change the lives of young people living with mental illness. Come early to enjoy the refreshments provided.www.sophiehardcastle.com

Bridge - Friday 16 October, 10.30am – 12 noon

Cath Whiddon speaking about Bridge - the world’s most popular mind sport! Start learning and playing this fascinating game.

Literary lunch - Thursday 22 October 12 noon – 1.30pm

Bettina Deda, Interior stylist and author of Downsizing with Style, will talk about how empty nesters can maintain wellbeing whilst downsizing with style and function. www.bdcolourdesign.net.au

Wellbeing Walk - Wednesday 28 October 10am – 12 noon

Sonja Elwood will lead you on a  relaxing walk through Warriewood Wetlands, where you’ll see them come alive with wildlife and spring flowering plants.

Bookings are open for all our FREE events – book now as spaces are limited! Ph: 9970 1600

For full details on all these events visit the library’s website at:www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/library

Learn more about Mental Health Month at: 

www.mental-health-month-nsw

 Gone Fishing Gallery at Waterfront Store Church Point

Open again TODAY in the top room Waterfront Store

Open mainly weekends as an addition to the waterfront cafe. 

Keep up to date on their Facebook page

Bilgola Plateau Public School Celebrating 50 Years: 16 October 2015 4:00pm - 8:00pm

Bilgola Plateau Public School is fabulous and fifty! The amazing school on the hill will celebrate its 50th Anniversary with a Twilight Celebration on Friday 16 October.  The 50th Anniversary Twilight Celebration will begin at 4:00pm and conclude at 8:00pm.

During the celebration current and past Bilgola Plateau Public School community members are encouraged to explore the school via the 50 th Anniversary Student Art Exhibition Trail, visit our newly created museum and view our Bilgola Plateau Public School Movie and BilgolaFest student movie offerings. Food vans will be onsite with delicious dinner options and lots of rides are on offer to entertain the children. 

The official 50th Anniversary Ceremony will occur at 5:30pm. During the ceremony we will cut the cake, reveal the contents of the time capsule buried in 1988 during Bicentenary celebrations and enjoy performances from our talented students. Our choir will sing a school song medley and our dance groups and bands will take you back in time by dancing and performing some sixties hits.  All three bands will play along with a premiere performance of the Bilgola Plateau Public School Reunion Band. All past band members are encouraged to bring their instrument to the Twilight Celebration and join in a mass band performance. Please email the school at bilgolapla-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au if you are a past Bilgola Plateau Public School Band member and you are interested in joining the Reunion Band performance.

If you are a past Bilgola Plateau Public School student please come and help us celebrate 50 years of being amazing. Please spread the word to your school mates!

 Chief Planner for NSW appointed

29.09.2015 - Departmental Media Release: Department of Planning and Environment

The Department of Planning and Environment has today appointed Gary White as the State’s Chief Planner to provide deeper rigour and oversight of strategic planning for the State and assessment of major projects. 

Mr White has held various Local and State Government senior planning roles in Queensland for more than 30 years before entering the private sector in 2012 where he became Chief Planner and Strategic Advisor for MacroPlan Dimasi.

A spokesperson said the appointment of a Chief Planner was recognition of the central role the Department plays in setting a course for the future of cities and regional communities.

“The NSW Government has moved the State’s planning system into top gear. Mr White will provide expert oversight on an ambitious program of work as we deliver on the goals and priorities set by the Premier,” a spokesperson said.

“As Chief Planner, Mr White will oversee projects to make the planning system more efficient and to get the best outcomes for local communities as we plan for the communities of tomorrow. 

“Mr White will be a tremendous asset for the Department in helping us achieve these important goals for NSW.” 

Mr White holds a Bachelor in Regional Town Planning (UQ) and Postgraduate Diploma Business Administration (QUT) and is a Life Fellow of the Planning Institute of Australia and Corporate Member of the Property Council of Australia.

He will commence with the Department on 9 November this year

 Newport Beach Arts Market

The NEWPORT BEACH ARTS MARKET is the launch event for the annual Newport Sculpture Trail, with the market’s theme “inspired by the sea”.

In 2015 the beach arts market will take place in the heart of Newport from 6 to 9pm on Friday the 13th of November.

For the event, we are looking for street performing artists and market stallholders offering arts, crafts, homewares or services “inspired by the sea”.

We are also offering an opportunity for schools, artist collectives and other community groups to participate in the launch event by creating light sculpture installations to showcase their organisations and work at the launch event for free. Read more here.

For performing artist enquiries call 0415 662 918 or emailinfo@beachartsmarket.com

For market stallholder information and application forms click here

 Greater transparency in local rezoning decisions

September 2nd, 2015: Ministerial Media Release; The Hon. Rob Stokes MP, Minister for Planning

Planning Minister Rob Stokes today announced the government will replace the Pre-Gateway review process with a simpler, faster and clearer rezoning assessment.

The current process, known as the Pre-Gateway review, allows a review where a council refused or failed to respond to an application to amend local planning rules. 

Reforms for the new rezoning review process include:

.Strengthening the test for the review of an existing zoning to ensure rezonings only proceed where they exhibit clear strategic merit;

.Review requests to the Department of Planning will be referred to Joint Regional Planning Panels or the Planning Assessment Commission within three days;

.Ensuring the council is aware a rezoning request has been sent to the Department within five days of receipt;

.Increasing the independence of the process by the Panel or the Commission, carrying out the assessment and determine the rezoning; and

.Making the Panel or Commission the Relevant Planning Authority where a council refuses a request to act as the Relevant Planning Authority, or does not respond to that request within 42 days.

“We’ve listened to community concerns about unexpected rezonings undermining confidence in local planning. That’s why we will reform the process of reviewing a council’s decision with a presumption against rezoning unless there is a compelling reason for change,” Mr Stokes said.

“While it’s appropriate that council decisions can be tested before an independent panel, this opportunity needs to be transparent and balanced.

“We need a planning system that supports sustainable growth in a timely, independent and orderly process, which is exactly what this reformed rezoning review is designed to achieve.

“These reforms will stop the revolving door of planning proposals going back and forth between councils and the community by strengthening the test for a review, making the process faster, simpler and clearer.”

To view the report, go to www.planning.nsw.gov.au/onexhibition

_________________________

View the proposed changes to the pre-Gateway review (PDF: 921.41 kb) and read the FAQs for more information. 

Comments can be made by emailing:pregatewayreview@planning.nsw.gov.au  

or writing to the Executive Director, Regions, Department of Planning and Environment, GPO Box 39, Sydney, NSW 2001.

Comments on the proposed changes are invited up to 14 October 2015.

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 1/10/2015 

click on Logo: 

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

DoggieRescue.com

Pet of the Week

Chilli

AGE/SEX: 6 months / F

BREED: Mini Foxy x Cattle

Paprika, Peppers, Cinnamon, Basil, Ginger and Chilli are a litter who came to us without Mum. They are lively happy boys and girls who have a real zest for life. Their energy is more like that of a Foxy and need a garden to run in. They have been attending puppy classes and are well socialised. She comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. Her adoption cost is $400.

For further details or to meet all dogs at call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email monika@DoggieRescue.com. Visit www.DoggieRescue.com to see all our dogs. www.facebook.com/doggierescue 

Front Page Issue 233: 

Bennett brings it home in Australian Women’s Match Racing Championship Hosted by RPAYC by Lisa Ratcliff

Te Arawa and Quickstep: Designed by Two Generations of Crowthers and Sailed by Three Generations of Geddes - The RMYC Multhull Division's Lock Crowther Regatta runs next weekend - October 2 to 4 - a small insight into two entrants

RPAYC Hosts 2015 Australian Women’s Match Racing Championships: September 25 to 27 by Stephen Collopy

Time Capsule Unearthed at Bilgola Plateau Public School‏ - If you are a past Bilgola Plateau Public School student please come and help us celebrate 50 years of being amazing - The Bilgola Plateau Public School P&C committee

Late entry fee waived for Yachting NSW Youth Championships by Lisa Ratcliff

The Peregrine Falcon by Warwick Dalzell - one of the stories from The John Street Heroes - holiday reading!

Maria Regina Grandparents & Special Friends Day 2015 by Peta Wise

Park Bench Philosopher: Seagull Songs by Agnes Littlejohn (of Manly), Ivy Moore (of Mosman) and Dorothea MacKellar (of Pittwater)

Pictures: BL's Blast Off 2015: The 10th Celebration of Surfing Gromfest 

Aquatics: El Niño and La Niña will exacerbate coastal hazards across entire Pacific: Coastal erosion of Australia's beaches could be worse than previously predicted- new study

Held over:

Start Sailing! The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club Open House Sunday 27 September, 2015

Manly Arts Festival turns 22: from Friday 18 September to Sunday 27 September 2015 + Manly Jazz: from Friday 25 September to Monday 5 October

Profile: Nat Bromhead A Mackerel Beach gentleman since a toddler, Nat Bromhead stuck to what interested him, what keeps his mind moving and worked at it until a love of fishing and a gift for English saw his first byline appear in Bush 'n Beach Fishing Newspaper in 1998. Nat kept working, became a journalist, online editor and photographer for other Queensland-based newspapers and now is an established Editor and photojournalist.

History: Pittwater Reserves: The Green Ways Bilgola Beach - The Cabbage Tree Gardens and Camping Grounds - Includes Bilgola - The Story Of A Politician, A Pilot and An Epicure by Tony Dawson and Anne Spencer  Pittwater reserves adjoin our beaches where small green spaces have been set aside so people may picnic, swing, play

Artist of the Month: Artist of the Month October 2015 - Nat Bromhead: Pittwater Photography - Award winning  photo-journalist with a passion for beautiful Pittwater shares a few glorious images and a story about a drone that flew away...and didn't come back!

Congratulations Councillors Jacqueline Townsend and Kylie Ferguson 

The Mayoral vote took place on Monday September 21st at the Pittwater Council Meeting

Our Mayor for 2015-2016 is Cr. Jacqueline Townsend. Vote 5-4

Deputy Mayor Cr. Kylie Ferguson. Vote 5-4.

Minutes from Monday’s Meeting may be read HERE

 Bus Rapid Transit Interchange at Mona Vale 

Mona Vale Residents Association

September 22 , 2015 

Investigative Drilling is currently being undertaken in Beeby Park Mona Vale and Village Park Mona Vale by Transport NSW. They are looking at potential sites to build the bus rapid transit interchange. A number of sights are being looked at around the MV CBD.

MVRA contact TRasnport NSW thisa week and found out there are 5-6 sites under investigation around Mona Vale.

The state owned Bus depot in Darley Strett is also being looked at as a potential transport hub. This is a site that the Mona Vale Residents Association think should be seriously considered as it will not have an impact on green open space and will be far better for traffic movements. 

We are now seeking a meeting regarding this matter with Transport NSW. It is disappointing that communication with the community had completely been ignored. 

Pictures courtesy Mark Horton

 Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club Open House 2015

Sunday, September 27 at 10:00am

Ever wanted to know or learn more about our Sailing programs for children or adults or are you already a sailor but wish to sharpen your skills or knowledge? 

Come and visit the Club in the new Jack Gale Centre to learn all about what The Alfred's can offer you.

The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club - RPAYC

Mitala Street, Newport, New South Wales, Australia 2106.

FREE

 Lock Crowther Regatta 2015 – RMYC Multihull Division

Lock Crowther was regarded as a world class Australian pioneer of multihull yacht design. We recognise his dedication to the development of the modern multihull and name a Regatta in his honour.

The Lock Crowther Regatta has been hosted by the RMYC since 1996 and offers multihull owners both exciting racing and cruising programs.

Once again the regatta will be held over the October long weekend on the beautiful waters of Pittwater and Broken Bay, NSW - starting with an optional Blue Water Classic ocean race on Friday 2 October 2015 for Safety Category 4 equipped boats with 4 inshore races to be sailed over Saturday and Sunday 3-4 October 2015.

And for the second year running, "off the beach" multihulls are invited to attend!

For the tenth year running APC Logistics, a major Australian-based international freight forwarding company, has signed on as principal and title sponsor of the 2015 event. We acknowledge and thank them warmly for their ongoing, generous support.

Here's an outline of what we have arranged for the weekend:

•  Five races over three days •  Exciting prize pool on offer

•  First class marina facilities •  PHS, OMR & VYC handicap formats

•  Launching area for trailable boats •  Family entertainment facilities including swimming pool

•  Trailer storage area •  Courtesy bus to shops/chandlery

•  Friday evening welcome BBQ •  Breakfast and take-away lunch available

•  Free skipper's regatta shirt •  "off the beach" entries welcome

All this for only $150 entry fee unchanged from last year!

Don't miss it!

Please click HERE  for the 2015 Notice of Race, online Entry Form and regatta shirt ordering information.

The online Entry Form includes help instructions. And you can pay securely online as well as upload a photo and other details of your boat if you wish!

"Off the Beach" boats, please choose the OTB Regatta Entry Form.

Sailing Instructions will be available for download towards the end of September 2015

Stop the supply – you're a parent not a mate

23 Sep 2015

A strong message is being sent to parents and guardians across the northern beaches to ‘Stop the supply of alcohol to minors’.

The Northern Beaches Community Drug Action Team (CDAT) is launching their Stop the Supply campaign, which raises awareness about secondary supply of alcohol to underage young people.

The Northern Beaches CDAT is a unified group of government and non-government agencies who work together to identify local problems and issues to improve the community’s health and wellbeing.

Pittwater Council Mayor Jacqui Townsend said the Stop the Supply campaign informs our community members about the laws and dangers of supplying alcohol to young people (also known as secondary supply).

Mayor Townsend said the education campaign aims to empower parents, friends and sporting organisations to say ‘no’ to secondary supply of alcohol.

“The message from Northern Beaches CDAT is a strong one – supplying alcohol to minors is against the law. 

“Parents, and coaches are not ‘mates’ and the consequences of supplying alcohol to minors may cost them $1,100 or up to $11,000 and/or 12 months imprisonment,” Mayor Townsend reiterated.

Northern Sydney Local Health District Health Promotion Officer, Melissa Palermo said research shows that excessive alcohol can cause major problems for our community; however the risks are exacerbated for our young people.

“In fact, growing evidence indicates that the brain keeps developing up to the age of 25 and is adversely affected by excessive alcohol consumption,” added Ms Palermo.

Ms Palermo reminded parents and guardians that the National Alcohol Guidelines state that children under the age of 15 are at the greatest risk of harm from drinking, and for those aged between 15 and 17, the safest option is for them to delay drinking for as long as possible.

Updates of the campaign will be posted on the Stop the Supply Facebook page.  More information can be found on the website:www.stopthesupply.org.au

 Palm Beach Longboarding Club Inc Old Mal – Old Log Rally 2015

	PBLB 2015 OMLR Entry Form.pdf Size : 119.493 Kb  Type : pdf