June 17 - 23, 2018: Issue 364


Articles This Week 

Front Page Issue 364

Golf Avenue Mona Vale Now A Car Park Due To B-Line Commuter Growing Pains + Newport B-Line webpage advises 'proposed solution to extend B-Line services to Newport will be presented in the Review of Environmental Factors planned for public display mid-2018' 

Pictures: The Barrenjoey High School Winter Night Market: A 50th Anniversary Celebration by Sally Mayman and Sean Mulcahy

First Pittwater Determination by Sydney North Planning Panel: to amend the Pittwater Local Environmental Plan 2014 to facilitate Seniors Housing Development on Crystal Bay Newport and E4 be re-zoned R2 to 'allow the proposed use as well as other suitable uses' for all adjacent blocks

Aquatics: Pittwater Winter Regatta Incorporating The NSW 2.4mR Class Championships Hosted By Sailability Crystal Bay  + Invictus Games Training Sessions To Be Held On Pittwater This Week

DIY Ideas: Johnson Bros. Trade Day 2018 - this Thursday June 21st  in our Mona Vale store, starts from noon, open to the public, CPD points for Tradies + Pallet alley +lots more! 

Reflections by George Repin: LAKE ARGYLE

From The Oceans To The Skies (Almost): A team of lifeguards from the Australian Lifeguard Service (ALS) recently got a first-hand look at the intense training professional helicopter crews put themselves through in order to save lives on the state’s beaches - by Surf Life Saving NSW

The Hawkesbury River Railway Bridge: Timely Winter Anniversaries and Commemorations For A Septuagenarian and her Predecessor

Park Bench Philosopher Antarctica In 2070: What Future Will We Choose? - Nature this week publishes a series of articles and recent studies discussing this and other issues that are emerging an overview of three of these studies, one of which stems from Australia

Pittwater Friends Of Soibada July 2018 Visit: Fundraising To Get The People and Medical Supplies We Need To Take Over - by Tamara Sloper Harding OAM

New Facility Will Help Abandoned and Neglected Dogs Learn How To Trust And Play Again: The DoggieRescue Freedom Park Fundraiser!!

Profile: Barry Leef - Barry Leef has been entertaining local audiences since moving to Sydney from New Zealand in 1969. 'Baz' has made a name for himself as Sydney’s number one session singer for deacdes, his repertoire including jingles for major corporations such as McDonalds, KFC and Coca-Cola. 

He has fronted legendary Aussie bands Bakery and Supermarket, led the in-house band at the Sydney Musicians Club, performed with Frank Zappa, Elvin Bishop, Tom Jones and Jeff 'Skunk' Baxter to name a few. But it's playing rhythm guitar he is most well known for - that and superb vocals. After decades of being one of the voices in Sydney Mr. Leef has released an album of ten tracks in ‘Rhythmized’ - with a local gig launch coming up Friday June 29th in Brookvale. 

This week a small insight into the long and colourful career of one Barry 'Baz' Leef.

History: The Roads and Tracks Of Yesterday: How The Avalon Beach Subdivisions Changed The Green Valley Tracks - a look at how the landscape was changed by turning cow paddocks and bush into backyards

Artist of the Month: June 2018: Barry Leef - New CD Rhythmized  - available now, local gig in June, hear the story behind this great new set of tracks from the man whose story this is and hear one track + a few other samples

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 14/6/2018 

click on Logo: 

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

The Hon. Rob Stokes Congratulates Barrenjoey High School on 50th

Published on 7 Jun 2018 by Barrenjoey High School
Thanks to The Hon Rob Stokes for congratulating Barrenjoey on 50 fabulous years

The Goat's Surf Forecast

Surf forecast issued Thursday 14 June 2018: Seven day outlook for Sydney:

Most people seemed to be happy that the weather and waves of the past week have passed by, judging by the number of smiling faces who turned up today at the right tide/time combination, despite the chilly wind.  The water temp was fine.

A deceptive little surf.  It looked flat to very small early on, then lines started to show, but the waves were still pleasantly sized and quality brushed by the offshore wind...

Until the sets arrived every so often, with a size and punch quite different to the average (after you left Ray).

If you were unfortunate to be under them (tick, more than once) you had a good workout today...which meant some of us had lower than desirable energy levels when more suitable waves came. Those who caught 'em had fun.  But all that wasn't long lasting and by twilight it looked like it had calmed down a lot.

Friday: should have calmed down even more than today, say to about 1 metre or so North East, but there should be a little pulse at times from the East

Saturday: W/NW/N winds will eventually flatten it, but there maybe little NE waves.. (or maybe not)

Sunday: waves out to sea, headed toward NZ, but inshore it'll be all calm.  Disappointing, but you won't really be disappointed with a 14 max air temp forecast and the windchill keeping that down to an Uncomfortable for an Aussie level.

Monday: what happens from here depends on what a Low expected to form down south does...possibly starting some SW swell.  Got that? SW swell - not much happening inshore at first... then building up later through the day, and into the night while you're asleep

Tuesday: Depending on the Low... could be in the 2-3 metre range , or more, at places open to dead South swell... with wind (or not, if it goes somewhere else)

Wednesday: Ditto proviso... maybe 2-3 metres South East, with wind

Thursday: could be similar South East, with some punchy sets.

The whales have started up again in earnest after the rough conditions... saw 9 today, between 5-15 ks out and moving along, keen to get to their holiday up north.

The Goat
(aka Roger Sayers)

Sportsfield death by neglect plan met with outrage

June 13, 2018: by LGNSW
Councils across NSW are outraged at the revelation that the business case behind NSW Government's controversial plans to rebuild Allianz Stadium relies on stealing football fixtures away from locally-owned sportsgrounds.

Local Government NSW (LGNSW) President Linda Scott said the business case, prepared by KPMG and released to the public yesterday, suggested at least two council sportsgrounds would be allowed to deteriorate sufficiently to force NRL games to be played at a rebuilt Allianz Stadium.

The two iconic grounds -  Manly Warringah Sea Eagles' home ground Lottoland, at Brookvale, and Leichhardt Oval, spiritual home of the West's Tigers - have been identified.

Both are council-owned.

"The KMPG business case is based on the need for the Allianz Stadium at Moore Park to draw more fixtures from council suburban grounds," Clr Scott said today.

"Local Government NSW is disappointed the State Government's business case states they won't be funding venues they don't own, raising the prospect of death by neglect for a range of council-owned community grounds.

"Opinion polling consistently shows NSW voters want to focus firmly on local infrastructure, rather than building big stadiums in Sydney.

"The local government sector simply does not believe it is in the best interests of the state to have sporting funding directed to elite stadiums when that money could be spent in a fairer way across the state on tennis courts, basketball courts or pools."

Clr Scott said locally-based stadiums were necessary for the public good.

"The backroom deals on stadiums seem to be getting worse and worse for councils and communities," she said.

The business case shows that even with the theft of NRL fixtures from home grounds, the state's investment in the Moore Park Allianz Stadium would not return a positive cost benefit.

"This means further taxpayer subsidies as locally-based sport drifts further and further from the community," Clr Scott said.

Whale Beach Road, Whale Beach

To help improve pedestrian safety and access along Whale Beach Road, Whale Beach, council are proposing to build a new walkway from Norma Road to the existing stairs leading down to Palm Beach.

Design features include:
  • New 1.0-1.5 meter wide footpaths
  • Fibre reinforced plastic (FRP) boardwalk/ stairs
  • Look outs/ viewing sites
Drop-In Sessions
To learn more about the proposal, come along to one of our drop-in sessions at the Beach Reserve, corner of Ocean Road and Ocean Place Palm Beach (opposite shops).
  • Thursday 14 June,10.30 - 12.00
  • Saturday 23 June, 12.30 - 2.00
How can I be involved?
council would like to hear your feedback on the proposed options, materials and look-out locations.

To learn more and have your say;
Comments close Wednesday 27 June 2018
If you have any questions please contact Gynt Drinan, Project Manager on 9942 2812.

Sydney Harbour Trust to Launch Reconciliation action Plan (RAP)

The Harbour Trust is pleased to announce the forthcoming launch of our inaugural Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).

When: Friday, 29 June from 10am until 11am
Venue: The Landship Gallery, Headland Park Artist Precinct, Mosman

The RAP will outline the Harbour Trust’s vision for reconciliation, including the initiatives we plan to undertake to realise this vision. In adopting an Innovate RAP, the Harbour Trust is committing to deepening our relationship with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across the entire organisation, from employment and procurement through to ecological and heritage management. 

The Harbour Trust’s RAP will be formally unveiled on Friday, 29 June at the Landship Gallery, Headland Park Artist Precinct, Mosman, following a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony. Afterwards, the RAP will be available on the Harbour Trust website. 

The RAP launch runs will coincide with the opening of the Serving Country portrait exhibition at the Landship Gallery. Open to the public from 11am to 3pm, every Friday through Sunday until 29 July, the exhibition will feature more than 200 images and stories paying tribute to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who have served in Australia’s Defence forces over the past century and counting. 

The Harbour Trust acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands and waters of Sydney Harbour, and of the ten sites under our stewardship: the Borogeggal, Birrabirrigal, Cammeraygal, Gadigal, Gayamagal, Wallumedegal and Wangal people. 

If you would like to attend the RAP launch, please RSVP by 22 June 2018 to sydneyevents@harbourtrust.gov.au

170 New And Upgraded Schools Across NSW

June 14, 2018
The NSW Government will invest a staggering $6 billion over the next four years to deliver more than 170 new and upgraded schools to support communities throughout NSW – representing the largest investment into schools by any state government in history.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian, Treasurer Dominic Perrottet and Education Minister Rob Stokes today announced next week’s Budget would include funding for an extra 20 new and upgraded schools, taking the total education capital program to 170 projects.

“We are in the midst of a school building program NSW has never before experienced and this year’s Budget takes this to a whole new level,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“I am proud that our Government is making this unprecedented investment into schools and our students.”

Mr Perrottet said the Government’s strong economic management had allowed it to invest heavily into schools and this would be at risk if Labor returned to the Treasury benches.

“The NSW Government is investing more on school infrastructure over the next four years than Labor spent in their last 14 years in government.

“The previous Labor government closed more than 90 schools including Macquarie Boys High, Beacon Hill High, Maroubra High and Redfern Public School.”

Planning is set to begin this year on the 20 new projects including new primary schools at Rhodes East, Westmead, Green Square, Murrumbateman, Gregory Hills and Edmondson Park.

Planning will also get underway for a new Edmondson Park High School along with upgrades to Randwick Boys and Girls High Schools, Birrong Boys and Girls High Schools and Cecil Hills High School.

Other projects include an upgrade to Punchbowl Public School, and a joint upgrade to improve facilities for Carlingford West Public School and Cumberland High School students.

During the course of this year, work will commence on 40 new and upgraded school projects, and planning will also begin on a further 20 new and upgraded schools. This complements work that is currently underway on more than 110 ongoing major school infrastructure projects, bringing the total number of projects being delivered across the State to more than 170.

This means that the projects underway across the State will deliver a total of more than 43,500 new student places and more than 2000 new permanent classrooms.

Mr Stokes said all new and upgraded schools are being designed with sustainability in mind and to accommodate best practice in teaching and learning.

“There is more to do, but we remain dedicated to our goal of offering first-class education facilities to every student in NSW,” Mr Stokes said. 

Also announced today is a continued blitz on school maintenance, with $160 million set to be spent in 2018/19, as part of the record $747 million investment over four years announced last year.

A maintenance audit by the NSW Department of Education released earlier this year showed the maintenance backlog had been slashed by $200 million, or about a quarter, over an 18 month period.

Projects currently underway across the State include Arthur Phillip High School, the Inner Sydney High School, Ballina Coast High School, the Hunter Sports High School, Oran Park High School, and Picton High School. A number of primary schools projects are also continuing, including Bardia, Penshust, Gledswood Hills, Ultimo and Jordan Springs public schools.


New and Existing projects

Brookvale Public School Upgrade* 
Upgrade to existing school hall and two new permanent classrooms

Narrabeen Education Precinct 
Establishment of new education precinct including expanding both Narrabeen North Public School and Narrabeen Sports High School to provide additional permanent teaching space and core facilities upgrades to meet enrolment growth, including the provision of specialist sporting facilities for community access
* previously announced

Existing projects underway

Curl Curl North Public School Upgrade
Expand school to provide additional new permanent teaching spaces and upgrade core facilities to address enrolment growth

Warringah Expressway 1969

From the films of the past - by Roads and Maritime Services

Nominations are now open for the 2017/18 NSW Sailing Awards

June 6, 2018: Australian Sailing
These awards recognise the outstanding performances of sailors, volunteers, officials and clubs in NSW for the year ending 30th June 2018.

It’s a great chance for your club, its sailors, instructors, coaches, officials and volunteers to be recognised.

The nomination categories are
  • Coach of the year
  • Disabled sailor of the year
  • Female sailor of the year
  • Instructor of the year
  • Junior/Youth sailor of the year
  • Male Sailor of the year
  • Official of the year
  • Volunteer of the year
  • Club of the Year
Nominations for the NSW Sailing Awards close on June 30 2018.

The NSW Sailing Awards presentation will be held at Manly 16’ Skiff Sailing Club on the evening of Saturday 21st July 2018. Information on how to book tickets for the awards presentation event will be available shortly.

Nominations must be completed using the attached nomination forms.

Nominations must be submitted by midnight 30th June 2018.


If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact Declan Brennan Regional Manager on 02 8424 7409.

Ingleside Rider's Group

Instead of watching, why don't you come and join us? We have mid year membership for just $70 - this gives you access to free club events we hold, priority bookings for our clinics, reduced rates for all events and... you get to join a 'members only (closed) group.' PLUS! access to the grounds whenever takes your fancy!
What's not to like!

Find out more at: inglesideriders.


Readers Query: 'Bilgola Castle'

Dear Editor,
I’m presently undertaking a personal research project about Dalley’s Castle when I came across this little story in SMH on Trove, and I’m now fascinated to see if there is still any of the seawall of Mrs. Jack Lindsay’s home in Bilgola still standing. Do you think anyone associated with ‘Pittwater Online News’ or any of your readers could shed some light on the mystery of ‘Castle in Bilgola’.
 
‘Mr. Oswald Cheeke and Mr. Patrick Bellew were other guests. Mr. Cheeke has been buying bricks from his uncle's old home. Dalley Castle, at Manly, which is now being demolished. The bricks will form the sea wall at the Bilgola home of Mrs. Jack Lindsay, who also is a relative of the one-time Australian states man, W. B. Dalley, builder of Dalley’s Castle.’ from: Spotlight on Society (1939, June 1). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 31. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article230891587
 
Any help would be greatly appreciated.

D. Bell

If anyone has any insights they can share with Mr. Bell, please email us and we will forward to him. Thank you! - AJG, Ed.

Avalon Amnesty Film Event

CHAUKA PLEASE TELL US THE TIME
filmed in Manus detention.
Amnesty  International  has said that the detention of Asylum Seekers is a form of torture, and certainly that is used to deter other refugees from attempting to come to Australia.   What is more this method is being adopted by other countries as a way to stop refugees seeking refuge.  

"Chauka Please Tell Us The Time" was  filmed by Behrouz Boochani  a journalist who spent several years in Manus detention and watched men suicide in despair.  This film shows us the hopelessness of life in detention where the men waited to hear the bird Chauka sing to know the days were passing - a symbol of despair to the imprisoned men, where it was the name of the solitary confinement unit.  At the same time the Chauka is a symbol of beauty to the people of Manus. 

This amazing film taken in detention shows the despair and sadness, but the film-maker wants to show that refugees are human beings, that they deserve better treatment, and that their suffering is destroying them.


Behrouz interviews another detainee

Come to Avalon Baptist Church, 2 George St. on Sunday 1st July at 5pm.  Free entry but voluntary donations to Amnesty are welcome. Free supper.  

We are hoping to have a Q & A with a representative from Amnesty International.        

Note that Australia at present has 1600 adults and 140 children in various detention centres! 

Kath Moody  
Avalon Amnesty Group 

Manly to Seaforth Flood Study

Council have prepared a draft flood study for the Manly to Seaforth catchment to understand flood risks, draining to Middle Harbour, North Harbour and the Tasman Sea. The study includes the suburbs of Balgowlah Heights, Clontarf and parts of Balgowlah, Fairlight, Manly and Seaforth.

The Draft Manly to Seaforth Flood Study is on public exhibition. You are invited to participate in the study by providing your comments.

Copies of the Flood Study are available for viewing at Customer Service Centres, Council’s libraries and online.

View the Draft Manly to Seaforth Flood Study (note some of these files are very large)

If you would like to book a one-on-one information session or require property specific information please contact Patrick Stuart on 9976 1606 or patrick.stuart@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au 

One on one information sessions will be held at:
  • Manly Town Hall: Tuesday 19 June 2018, 4 – 7pm, Saturday 23 June 2018, 9am – 4pm
  • Seaforth Village Community Centre: Thursday 21 June 2018, 4pm - 7pm,
Have your Say
In writing Northern Beaches Council, PO Box 82,Manly NSW 1665, marked ‘Submission – Draft Manly to Seaforth Flood Study’
By email council@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au, marked ‘Submission – Draft Manly to Seaforth Flood Study’
Submissions close Friday 13 July 2018

DoggieRescue.com

Pet of the Week

Tasha

AGE/SEX: 3-4 years / F
BREED: Sharpei X Lab

Tasha is a very loving, affectionate girl. She walks well on loose lead and stays close to her carer but she can also run like the wind! Off the leash with her carer, she gets on with other dogs but is a little timid at first. She is well mannered when left alone in the house. She barks at Mynah birds and runs around excitedly. She can get spooked by loud noises like machinery noises or by random objects which sometimes which will make her bark loudly; this is triggered by fear of something foreign. Her greetings of people can be exuberant, as she tends to jump up or leap around..but this is improving a lot with training. Overall, she is a beautiful dog, full of life, a touch of mischievous but she has a very good nature. She looks super healthy, with the most beautiful shiny short coat. She weighs 24.4kg 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 $450.  

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

BHS: Call out to all ex students!

We are going to hold an exhibition in the lead up to the Golden Ball in September.

Do you have anything we could use for an exhibition in the lead up to the Golden Ball? Things like old school uniforms, school magazines, images, medals or trophies. Fun things that will take people back. 

Do you have, or know others who might have items like this? We would return them after the exhibition.

Images could be sent to kalinda.hawson@det.nsw.edu.au

15 June – The Barrenjoey Night Market.  There will be food stalls, market stalls, little rides and games.  Centre stage will present some of Barrenjoey’s finest musicians from past and present.  To end the evening there will be fireworks.  this is a family-friendly event. More information will appear here.

29 September – The Golden Ball  All ex students and staff are invited to the Golden Ball.  Plans are being finalised and tickets will go on sale in Term 2.  Keep your eye here for more information as it comes to hand.

If you wish to keep informed about the festivities please go to the Alumni page and register your interest.


Entries Now Open for Northern Beaches Art Prize

Fancy yourself as the next Brett Whitely or maybe Picasso? Now is your chance to make your artistic talents known to the wider world.

Northern Beaches Council is calling for artists to enter the annual Northern Beaches Art Prize.

With more than $24,000 in prizes on offer, it is the region’s most prestigious art competition.

Northern Beaches General Manager Planning, Place & Community David Kerr said the competition provides an excellent opportunity for artists to showcase their talents.

“It’s very important we foster and nurture arts and culture at the local level,” he said.

The Northern Beaches Art Prize (formerly Warringah Art Prize) began in 1955 and is open to all Australian residents as young as 10.

The competition has four main categories; General, Small Sculpture, Waste to Art, and Youth.

Mona Vale sculptor Suzanne Davey won last year’s Art Prize in the sculpture category.

She said winning the prize boosted her artistic efforts after several years of creating, experimenting and developing her ideas.

“It was really affirming and shows that hard work, application and focus does pay. It gave me a feeling of validation and that I was on the right path; the journey continues.”

Entries open on Tuesday 1 May and close on Sunday 24 June and can be completed online through the Northern Beaches Council website.

The competition’s entries will be on display at the Creative Space in North Curl Curl from 10 August to 19 August for General and Small Sculpture, and 24 August to 2 September for Youth and Waste to Art.


Suzanne Davey - Gathering Shadows (award winner) 

Zonta Birthing Kit Packing Day 2018

Saturday 18 August 2018
Would you like to assist?
The Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Inc and Barrenjoey High School are organising a day to pack Birthing Kits for women in developing countries. Members of the local community are invited to help.  We plan to pack 2000 kits.



With an estimated 385,000 women dying annually in childbirth, many from infections acquired during childbirth, there is a great need for these birthing kits.  Most women need assistance due to isolation, cultural choice or poor transport and have little or no assistance during childbirth. Many mothers and babies die from preventable infections. By providing a clean birthing kit, and training in how to use it, these mothers will have the resources to reduce infection.

Birthing Kits are assembled under the auspices of the Birthing Kit Foundation (Australia)  - a not-for-profit non-government organisation (NGO) that provides birthing kits and education in clean birthing practices. BKFA originated from the Zonta Clubs of Adelaide Hills and has grown to be supported by Zonta Clubs across Australia. 

Well over 100,000 kits are assembled and distributed each year.  Each birthing kit is made up of six simple items assembled into a small plastic bag.

A donation of just $3 buys the materials for one kit and the training program for its delivery.  You can help us by making a donation on the day.  For full details of the Birthing Kit Program see the BKFA website at https://www.bkfa.org.au/.  

The Packing Day at Barrenjoey High School will run from 1pm to approximately 4pm.  
Please contact Margaret White on 0416 182 393 or email marg.white@me.com  if you are able to assist or you would like more information.

Update on the Ingleside Planned Precinct

May 11, 2018: From NSW Dept. of Planning
We have reviewed the submissions and feedback received on the draft Land Use and Infrastructure Implementation Strategy, which was exhibited from December 2016 to February 2017, and are working through the next phase of the planning process. A summary of the submissions received and our responses is available here.

In response to issues raised by the community and to comply with the draft Planning for Bushfire Protection Policy 2017, a Bushfire Risk Assessment is being prepared. We have also undertaken other additional technical work including:
  • traffic and transport modelling, especially around Mona Vale Road
  • planning for infrastructure provision
  • water cycle management and flooding assessment
  • assessment of environmental impacts including additional surveys, for example around biodiversity across the precinct and along the proposed ecological corridors.
We are working with Northern Beaches Council and other Government agencies throughout this process. 

Next steps
We aim to release the revised Land Use and Infrastructure Implementation Plan (known as the Precinct Plan) in late 2018. 

A draft Local Character Statement (LCS) is also being prepared to define the existing character of the area and capture the community’s values and aspirations. The draft LCS will be based on the extensive community consultation undertaken to date and will be an essential reference guide for the Department to use in finalising the draft plan for Ingleside.  

More opportunities to have your say
There will be more opportunities for the community to provide feedback. 

The revised Precinct Plan, draft Local Character Statement and supporting documents will open for public comment when they are released later in 2018, and the Department will have a range of ways available for you to have your say. 

More information
Call us on 1300 305 695

Throw in your line! Apply for gone fishing day grants

The fourth annual NSW Gone Fishing Day will be held in just six months’ time and recreational fishing clubs and organisations are being encouraged to apply for grants to host fishing activities on October 14.

NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Coordinator Community Programs, Dee Payne, said applications for grants of up to $2,000 are now open until July 16.

“Gone Fishing Day celebrates our love of fishing in NSW and encourages everyone to get out on the water and enjoy this healthy outdoors activity,” Ms Payne said.

“It doesn’t matter if you haven’t fished before or if you’re the keenest of anglers, Gone Fishing Day is for everyone.”

Applications for activities such as casting and fishing workshops, information sessions and fish habitat restoration will be considered.

“Grants of up to $2,000 are now available for recreational fishing clubs, organisations and community groups to run fishing events as part of the Day. The money can be spent on event items such as fishing gear, bait, food and drinks and equipment hire,” Ms Payne said.

“This year we also have the option to apply for a package of fishing gear and giveaways as an alternative to a funding grant.”

Fishing clubs simply need to fill out the application form which is available online at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/recreational/resources/go-fishing-nsw

Clubs or organisations can also apply to carry out fish habitat restoration activities including replanting or weeding their local waterway or creek banks.

DPI-staffed major events for the Day will once again be scheduled at six locations across the state.

“We know there are around 850,000 people that love wetting a line each year in NSW and we hope this state-wide day will promote fishing as a vital part of our lifestyle to even more local residents and communities,” Ms Payne said.

“The more fishing activities we can hold across the state, the greater the opportunity to spark an interest that may become a lifetime of recreational fishing enjoyment. I urge all clubs to get involved and apply for a Gone Fishing Day grant before July 16.”

For more information email go.fishing@dpi.nsw.gov.au or phone (02) 4424 7428.

The imminent threat to Newport and Avalon…

The congestion. All the new apartments. Traffic jams, even between Newport and Mona Vale. Not to mention the shemozzle at Narrabeen bridge. And now the B Line is about to turn Newport Beach into a bus depot. The simple answer is:
The B Line must terminate at Mona Vale

Didn’t we all come here, kilometres away from the city, for the trees, the blue sea and the beach? Well, you might say, it’s only a bus service but, the threat to our way of life this represents is really serious. Consider these four reasons why the B Line termination at Newport, or Avalon or Palm Beach, would wreck the character and amenity of the far north peninsula:
  1. B Line buses are large. Creating a massive roundabout at Newport for these buses means removing trees, widening roads and making an ugly mess of the beach area of Newport. With queues of diesel buses, congestion would be terrible, for the people of Newport and all places further north. 
  2. If the B Line were to go further, negotiating the bends at Bilgola and the Avalon Kamakaze roundabout would be absolute chaos. Particularly congestion at Avalon shops would be unacceptable. 
  3. The government’s stated intention is for increased density. Extending the B Line to Newport invites further development north of Mona Vale. We’ve all noticed the huge increase in congestion between the northern suburbs and Mona Vale. 
  4. If termination is at Newport, the beach parking would be forever filled up. Newport would become a parking station, its beach, its ambiance and its character destroyed.
Bus services north of Mona Vale must be improved

The service is now decidedly worse with the introduction of the B Line. Such is the way all this has been organised, it seems the E88 is now faster from Mona Vale to the city than the B Line.

In some cases, yes , it would be necessary to change at Mona Vale if you are city bound, but everything is a trade-off. If we want to keep the far peninsula as a liveable place, to retain its character and to hold on to a community we all love, the B Line must terminate at Mona Vale. 

At the same time, we must have an improved bus service for the far north peninsula. Make no mistake, the government will make a roundabout at Newport unless we make ourselves heard.

What can we do?
We’ll be talking to the community on the corner of Robertson
road and Barrenjoey road on Saturday mornings from 10.00
to 1.00. Please come and see us. We would welcome your
suggestions as to how to counter this threat.

Friends of Newport Community Group. 
Please email us at friendsofnewport@gmail.com
NB: The authors do not represent that the contents are complete, current and free from error and accept no liability.

The purpose of  www.westpittwater.com.au  - is best defined by the vision of the West Pittwater Community Association.

To be a supportive community, encouraging and promoting civic pride, interest in community affairs and goodwill amongst residents.

To protect local fauna and flora and generally preserve West Pittwater and its environs.

To secure essential facilities including public wharves and reserves and to protect private and public property.

To speak with one voice and represent the interests of the Western Foreshore community when in discussion with Pittwater Council and other relevant government bodies. The WPCA website provides a forum for the better realisation of these objectives. Visit: www.westpittwater.com.au

Petition: Save Ingleside from Over-Development

PROPOSED INGLESIDE DEVELOPMENT
We the undersigned, write in connection with the above proposal and wish to object strongly and respectfully to the development of the area in the proposed manner.

Ingleside is a dispersed settlement where development proposals should be considered very carefully: infilling could ruin the character of the area but estate development will not only overwhelm it but also overwhelm the vast majority of residents living from Narrabeen to Palm Beach who will travel through or near Ingleside every day.

Naturally, we understand that the State Government has a determined growth strategy. However, the overwhelming increase in immediate population and thoroughfare traffic will have a devastating effect upon the existing population who live here and contribute to Sydney as a city and as a defined demographic already. 

Pressure for the development in the region is considerable, mainly for housing city commuters, but has been successfully resisted for more than 30 years for the same reasons as now. The infrastructure was not in place and as can be seen by the impact of development in Warriewood, remains at an unsupportive level. The reasons for rejecting those schemes also included the inadequacy of the minor roads apart from Mona Vale Road to accommodate even small increases in traffic. 

Reference is made to the over one thousand comments on the supporting website, mostly by residents of Pittwater external to the immediate area of Ingleside who have failed to have a voice but as your constituents have equal right to be represented as bearing the impact of the development. With the above in mind, we request that the development be reviewed to take into account the residents of Pittwater, whom you represent. Rather than telling them why it will be good for them, consider the voice of the residents and understand why it will be bad for them. 

 

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. For more information at  www.sailability.org/au/pittwater or call John on 9982 5656

Pittwater Community Groups: 


Sports (plus Social Members)

Gardens and Environment

Rural Fire Brigades
Services

Arts and Social

Vale Captain David McFall

Capt. David McFall, whom many would remember as the director of the The Maritime Model Museum (At Mona Vale), has recently passed away after a battle against cancer for a few years. 

His wife Jenny has been in touch with Pittwater Online this week to inform us that sadly she must close the museum. Details below.

A full tribute will run next Issue.

Newport residents association June Meeting

The next meeting of the Newport Residents Association will be held on Tuesday 19th June 2018 at the Newport Community Centre, The Boulevard Newport at 7 pm.

At this meeting we will be having presentations from representatives of the Northern Beaches Hospital followed by presentations from Doctors from Mona Vale Hospital about what will be happening at Mona Vale once the new NBC hospital commences. Please invite your friends to hear these presentations and ask your questions.

YOUR HOSPITAL:  Coming & Going
Attend the Newport Residents Association monthly meeting
at Newport Community Centre
7.00pm Tuesday 19th June
to hear presentations on Northern Beaches Hospital
presented by Nicola Pellegrini of Northern beaches Hospital Project Team
 
and on the future of Mona Vale Hospital
presented by Dr Andy Ratchford, Mona Vale Hospital head of ED, speaking on the Mona Vale Hospital Urgent Care Centre, etc

All community members are encouraged and are most welcome to attend.

To find out more visit: newport.org.au

Caves Beach Pumped For Thrilling IRB's Finale

Thursday 14 June 2018 by SLS NSW
The hours of slogging it out on the water in the chill of an early morning have been ticked off, the highly-tuned motors have been cleaned, the competitor’s bags are about to be packed, and it’s all for this moment; the final round of the 2018 NSW Sharkskin IRB Premiership Series.

This weekend a hardy bunch of more than 300 competitors will make the journey to Caves Beach for what promises to be a thrilling two-days of Inflatable Rescue Boat racing.

Although the State and National Championships are yet to be held it is the challenge of being consistent over a series of meetings that really stokes the competitive fire of those souls who count themselves as members of the IRB family.

Thanks to the intervention of Mother Nature that forced Round 3 at Umina Beach to be cancelled, it’s been nearly a month since the IRB crews were last able to enjoy a competitive race.

And there is a feeling that something very special will happen this weekend when the competitors are finally unleashed.

Hosts Caves Beach SLSC will be out to make history and crown their season to remember on their own break.

Another strong performance in these familiar waters will be enough to see it declared overall winners of the Premiership Series, ending a 6-year-winning streak compiled by Kiama Downs SLSC.

Rivals on the beach, but friends off it, 2018 has been somewhat of a rebuilding year for the South Coast powerhouse.

The defending champions have managed to overcome the loss of a number of experienced competitors this season, and their results thus far, barring a dramatic final round, should ensure a top-two finish.

From there it’s anyone guess with a chasing pack consisting of Terrigal, Queenscliff, North Cronulla, Woonona, and South Maroubra keen to make their mark.

In the rest of the field the teams from Bilgola, Bungan Beach, and Mona Vale are unavailable for this weekend’s competition due to other commitments, while Stockton SLSC will make their return.

This weekend marks the fourth time that Caves Beach SLSC has hosted a Premiership Round in its current format, with the club very much looking forward to welcoming competitors from across the state.

“In the past we’ve held the opening round of the season so it makes a nice change for us to be able to hold the last round of the series,” said Troy Grieves Competition Manager for Caves Beach SLSC.

“Preparations have been going really well and the beach looks great. The forecast at the moment is for 1.2 metres of swell so hopefully it will hold steady and we can get a good weekend of racing.

“It’s been a fantastic season for our club with our very young team performing especially well in the U23 races. Some are now making their mark in open competition so it’s certainly exciting to watch them perform on their home beach,” he said.

If this winner-takes-all competition isn’t enough to whet the appetite, this weekend also marks one final opportunity for the competitors to put their names at the forefront of the minds of the selectors before the NSW IRB Interstate team to travel to Thirroul next month is announced in the coming weeks.

The following clubs will be competing in Round 4 of the 2018 NSW Sharkskin IRB Premiership Series;
Avalon Beach SLSC, Catherine Hill Bay SLSC, Caves Beach SLSC, Coogee SLSC, Cooks Hill SLSC, Forster SLSC, Helensburgh-Stanwell Park SLSC, Kiama Downs SLSC, Maroubra SLSC, Newcastle SLSC, Newport SLSC, Nobbys SLSC, North Avoca SLSC, North Cronulla SLSC, Ocean Beach SLSC, Queenscliff SLSC, Soldiers Beach SLSC, South Maroubra SLSC, Stockton SLSC, Terrigal SLSC, Thirroul SLSC, Umina SLSC, Woonona SLSC.

Racing at Caves Beach on Saturday 16 June is slated to commence from 8am AEST

Below: Off and racing in Round 4 Day 1 of the NSW IRB Championships. Video courtesy Avalon Beach SLSC

Reminder: Woolworths End Single Use Plastic Bags On June 20th, 2018


Woolworths: We've set the date for the end of single-use plastic bags.

The removal of single-use plastic bags has been a really important topic for our customers and our team. Which is why, Woolworths committed to phase out all single-use plastic bags at our checkouts nationally.

After listening to our customers and working with our teams, we're proud to announce that from the 20th of June 2018 all Woolworths stores will be single-use plastic bag free. We are committed to playing our part in reducing plastic usage and believe that this is the right thing to do for our environment.

This means that we, from the 20th of June, will no longer provide ‘free’ plastic bags at our checkouts in store. We've always encouraged the use of reusable bags and with this change it's now more important than ever for customers to bring in their own bags from home or pick up one of our reusable bags in store.

The Woolworths team continues to work hard to reduce our impact on the environment by supporting the reduction and recycling of plastics throughout our stores. Other initiatives include reducing the amount of plastic packaging on fruits and vegetables; introducing the new Australasian Recycling Label to help educate our customers on what can be recycled and where, as well as the expansion of our soft plastic recycling program.

PFOS Meeting

Monday, June 25 at 7 PM - 8:30 PM
Hosted by Pittwater Friends of Soibada
Avalon Beach RSL Club
1 Bowling Green Lane, Avalon Beach
It is time we all caught up to discuss the many amazing things going on with our projects and plan the way ahead. 

Pittwater Friends of Soibada is a diverse group of local individuals who are committed to forging a lasting friendship between communities on Sydney's Northern Beaches and those in the Central Timor Leste province of Soibada.  Our key objective is to support the local people in their efforts to achieve sustainable development in their region.  All our projects are initiated by the people of Soibada themselves.

Moveable Heritage Management Policy (draft)

Council are seeking comments on the draft Moveable Heritage Management Policy. Moveable heritage is defined as any natural or manufactured object of heritage significance (excluding archaeological relics found underwater or underground) that by its nature can be moved and is highly portable.

The draft policy seeks to identify and protect moveable objects of heritage significance to the Northern Beaches.

If you would like to provide feedback on the draft Policy, make a submission

In writing - addressed to the General Manager, ‘Moveable Heritage Management Policy’ Northern Beaches Council, PO Box 882, Mona Vale NSW 1660
Submissions close Sunday 24 June

A million visits to Government comparator site as consumers search for a better deal

15 June 2018: Media release - The Hon. Josh Frydenberg MP, Minister for the Environment and Energy
The Turnbull Government is continuing to help consumers lower their energy bills.

Australians have used the Energy Made Easy price comparator website more than one million times since the Government's meetings with energy retailers in August last year.

This means many more Australians are taking charge of their energy bills and shopping around to reduce their energy costs.

Visits to the government-run comparator help households get a better energy deal. Consumers can save hundreds of dollars by switching from an average standing offer to the best market offer.

As part of the Turnbull Government's ongoing efforts to improve outcomes for energy consumers, the Government provided extra funding for the site to make it simpler to use and easier to compare and choose between deals.

This complements actions already taken by the Government as part of our plan to deliver more affordable energy for Australian households, including:
  • requiring retailers to write to around 1.6 million households to tell them better deals are available. As a result of this, there are now around 260,000 fewer customers on market offers with expired discounts;
  • a rule change requiring energy retailers to notify their customers when their discounts are about to finish or change;
  • a rule change proposal requiring retailers to provide their customers with advance notice of price changes; and
  • rule change proposals to allow consumers to submit self-reads of their energy meters and to reduce the time it takes to install new meters.
To search for a better energy deal, visit www.energymadeeasy.gov.au or, in Victoria, https://compare.switchon.vic.gov.au/.

Increasing Access To Cataract Surgery

June 14, 2018: The Hon Brad Hazzard, NSW Minister for Health
Experts from across the State will meet at NSW Parliament House in August, tasked with finding ways to improve access to surgery for people suffering from cataracts.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard announced the forum will examine new ways to better assist the one in three people aged over 65 who have clinically significant cataracts.

“The NSW Government is committed to supporting our older citizens to age safely and independently,” Mr Hazzard said.

“NSW does well in the urgent and semi urgent surgery categories where people typically receive surgery in one to six weeks, but I do want people to get faster access in the non-urgent category – that was why last year we did a $3 million blitz to get more people through in cataract, hip and knee surgery.”

In NSW public hospitals, there were 24,502 cataract operations in 2016/17 with almost 99 per cent performed within a clinically appropriate time. This is an improvement from 2010/11 when just over 91% had their surgery performed within a clinically appropriate time under Labor.

“I acknowledge the hard work and dedication of our clinicians and managers across NSW Health in making NSW the best performing state for on-time elective surgery,” Mr Hazzard said.

“Gone are the dark days under the previous Labor government when on-time surgery blew out, and 19,000 people waited more than a year to get surgery – we’ve been able to reduce that to 210 people.”

The forum will be attended by frontline clinicians, managers, and executives from metropolitan and rural Local Health Districts, not-for-profit organisations, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmology and the Agency for Clinical Innovation.

Stakeholders interest in participating can register their interest with the NSW Ministry of Health via email to: SPB@doh.health.nsw.gov.au​

Palm Beach Longboarders July Comp

Next Winter Comp; Sunday July 1st
7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Set up and surfing by 7am. Location will be best practical break along Palmy.

About
We're a longboarding club of mature groms and grommets located on Sydney's northern beaches meeting beachside at 7am on the first Sunday of each month.

PBL is a Non-Profit club who meets once a month at Palm Beach to surf and have fun.


Communities silenced and councils in chaos as election funding laws rammed through Parliament

May 23, 2018: Media release - The Greens, NSW
The Liberal National government has shown just how afraid they are of losing the next election pushing new laws through the Parliament at 2:30am in the morning to stifle the voice of Unions NSW, GetUp! and other third parties in upcoming elections.

The new rules, say the Greens, will see ‘third party’ groups like Sea Shepherd and World Wildlife Fund see their spending caps halved to $500,000 while the old parties have given themselves a massive windfall in both money to run elections and money received after elections.

The Electoral Funding Bill 2018 includes some positive measures including the definition of prohibited donors, increased transparency and some spending caps in local government election but was a missed opportunity to clean up politics.

The spending caps for local government elections are ill thought out and will see massive overspending in some areas with a pittance in others. They must be fixed before the 2020 council elections.

Jamie Parker MP for Balmain and Greens anti-corruption spokesperson says:
“This law is simply designed to rig the election by gagging voices from the wider community who are critical of the government’s agenda.

It is outrageous to allow a political party to spend over $22m in an election campaign period while slashing by more than half the funds advocacy groups in the community can spend.

“If government wants to reduce the voice of unions and environmental groups by more than half they should reduce the amount political parties can spend proportionately.

“This Bill won’t cut the influence of big money; it denies unions and environmental groups the capacity to effectively participate in elections.

“There is a massive loophole for candidates to spend up to $60,000 outside of the donation cap on their own campaign. This means political parties be encouraged to endorse wealthy candidates who can afford to spend tens of thousands on their own campaign and will provide a back door way of avoiding donation caps for the Upper House,” Mr Parker said. 

"We tried to ban donations from mining corporations but that was rejected."

He added that while political parties are still able spend over $22m each for elections, the new law includes a provision for ‘admin spending’, which adds even more money to their campaigns.

As for real time donation disclosure, Parker said his party moved an amendment so that donations would be made public within 14 days from being received, but that too was rejected.

Greens MP and Local Government Spokesperson David Shoebridge said:
“The Greens support taking money out of politics and spending caps in local government elections are a good thing, but these caps are unworkable and irrational.

“The government’s model creates bizarre outcomes for councils across the state.

“Under these changes a party contesting a council election with 2,000 voters across 4 wards can spend $120,000 but if they are in a council with 200,000 votes and no wards they are limited to $30,000.
“A party running in the City of Sydney will only be able to spend 21 cents per voter, compared to $3.70 per voter in Woollahra, $50 per voter in Walcha and a whopping $100 per vote in the Central Darling.

“This government could have accepted our amendments and spent the time getting this formula right, but instead they’ve rammed these laws through Parliament in the early hours of the morning.

“Despite the amendments not succeeding, all parties acknowledged the serious problems with the Government’s local council election rules and the Greens’ amendments will be immediately reviewed by the Parliament’s Joint Standing Electoral Committee,” Mr Shoebridge said.

________________

When asked if a week was long enough for the opposition to digest and repose to a 150 page bill, Nationals MLC Ben Franklin replied, ‘This Bill has undergone a long and rigorous process of consultation over the past couple of years. It started with the Government establishing an independent panel to consider all issues surrounding electoral funding. (This was chaired by Kerry Schott, with Andrew Tink and John Watkins as the other members).’ ‘Submissions both verbal and written were made by parties and individuals. It was very thorough and ran for a number of months.

‘The government accepted 49 or the 50 recommendations in principle, but asked the Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters to consider this report.

‘Again, submissions were received and considered and a report was tabled. The report’s recommendations were almost entirely unanimous (with the exception of the third party cap issue).

Assented on Wed 30 May 2018 
Long Title: An Act to make provision for the disclosure, capping and prohibition of certain political donations and electoral expenditure for parliamentary and local government election campaigns; to make provision for the public funding of parliamentary election campaigns and other activities; and for other purposes.

_____________________________

Electoral Funding and Disclosure Reform Bill Update

In related news, at a Federal level (the Electoral Funding and Disclosure Reform Bill - see Community News February 2018), the Hands Off Our Charities alliance insist they will only support laws which adhere to five key principles laid out in a report released on Friday June 8th:
  • Charities and not-for-profit groups are able to use funding (including from overseas) for issues-based advocacy
  • There is a clear distinction between issues-based advocacy and politically partisan electioneering
  • Charities and not-for-profits are not subjected to more extensive regulations or stricter compliance measures
  • Donors of gifts not being used to promote or oppose a candidate or party for political office should not be subjected to new reporting or registration requirements
  • Charities and not-for-profits must be free to work with non-Australian citizens and non-permanent residents to advance issues of public interest.
Federal politicians will return to Canberra this week for eight sitting days before the winter break.

The DoggieRescue Freedom Park Fundraiser!!

DoggieRescue is faced with an increasing number of highly stressed, withdrawn and depressed dogs arriving from the council pounds. Dogs who have not only been abandoned or abused but who have then been deprived of physical exercise and stimulation after spending weeks or even months shut up within council compounds.

The no-kill charity, which has saved and re-homed over 12,600 dogs, has always dreamed of creating its own off-leash park area at its DoggieWood shelter at Ingleside on Sydney’s Northern Beaches.

“A lot of dogs come to us in a terribly stressed state. We work hard to turn their lives around and teach them to trust again. And part of this process includes giving them the opportunity to run, sniff and play. A space to rebuild their confidence and restore their spirits – somewhere where they are simply free to be a dog again” says Monika Biernacki, DoggieRescue Founder.

“It has always been my dream to have a safe and secure place for our dogs to exercise and today we are launching our appeal to help raise the funds to build our very own Freedom Dog Park. We want to make that dream a reality.”

The DoggieRescue Freedom Dog Park will be built on existing shelter land but requires installation of secure fencing and proper access gates. Construction costs have been estimated at $15,000. Once complete, as well as being a safe playground for general exercise, the facility will also provide space for specialist trainers to work with the dogs on socialisation and rehabilitation, increasing their chances of finding a new home.


The area set aside for the Freedom Park

“The Freedom Dog Park will help our doggies heal and get them ready for their new loving homes” says Monika. “Nothing would give me greater pleasure than to see these dogs running freely and releasing all their pent up energy. There is also so much potential for training and fun volunteering.”

To find out more about the DoggieRescue Freedom Dog Park visit www.doggierescue.com

To help make this dream become a reality you can donate to the building fund at https://give.everydayhero.com/au/freedom-dog-park.

About Monika's Doggie Rescue

DoggieRescue.com is Australia’s largest No-kill charity, in operation since 2001 with the primary objective of saving dogs from death row from council pounds. DoggieRescue has saved over 12,500 dogs and has more than 100 dogs looking for homes. It relies on dog lovers to keep its doors open and is largely a volunteer run organization. For more information call Doggie Rescue on 02 9486 3133. 

$1.5 million to help youth thrive

June 7, 2018
The NSW Government is urging organisations across NSW to apply for a share of $1.5 million to support projects that improve youth participation in the community.

Minister responsible for Youth, Ray Williams today announced applications for the NSW Government’s Youth Opportunities program are now open.

“The program provides one-off grants between $10,000 and $50,000 to not-for-profit organisations and local councils for youth-led and youth-driven community projects,” Mr Williams said.

“In this year’s funding round there will be an additional $400,000 available, meaning more young people will benefit.”

“Projects previously selected aim to upskill young people to provide them with greater opportunities for employment in a number of sectors, including hospitality, events planning or media.”

Musicians Making a Difference (MMAD) is one organisation benefiting from the last round of Youth Opportunities funding. The group have used the grant to run a spoken word poetry initiative for youth.

“Youth Opportunities has meant we have been able to create an avenue for young people to pursue their passion of poetry and discuss issues that affect them in a public forum,” Dominic Brook, MMAD CEO said.

“Our program has given young people a voice and an opportunity to develop valuable leadership, event management and marketing skills.”

Since the program was launched in 2012, Youth Opportunities has provided $9 million in funding to 177 projects across NSW.

Applications for grants under this year’s program close on Monday 16 July 2018.

To apply or to find further information about the program, visit: youth.nsw.gov.au/youth-opportunities

Youth Opportunities Grant Applications
Organisations seeking project funding from the Youth Opportunities program are to involve young people in all aspects of the project (initiating, leading, managing and participating).

Projects which are genuinely youth-led and youth-driven are those initiated by young people in response to what they have said they need. We are seeking applications which address young people’s identified needs in an innovative way and increase young people’s connections to the community.

Organisations must speak with young people and involve them in developing the project proposal prior to submitting an application.

Applicants are advised to read the Program Guidelines carefully before completing an application for funding. 

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary 2018 Stalls

 

July
7th: Stall, Pittwater Place, Mona Vale                          9am to 3pm
Sewing ,knitting, craft, books
 
14th: Bunnings, Narrabeen                                            8am to 3pm
Sausage sizzle
 
20th: Stall, Foyer Mona Vale Hospital                          9am to 3pm
Baking, Knitting, sewing, books

August
4th: Stall, Pittwater Place, Mona Vale                          9am to 3pm
Sewing, knitting, craft, books
 
11th: Bunnings, Narrabeen                                            8am to 3pm
Sausage sizzle
 
17th: Stall, Foyer Mona Vale Hospital                          9am to 3pm
Baking, knitting, sewing, books
 
31st: Stall, Outside ANZ Bank, Avalon Parade           9am to 3pm
Sewing, knitting, craft
 
September
1st: Stall, Pittwater Place, Mona Vale                          9am to 3pm
Sewing, knitting, craft, books
 
8th: Bunnings, Narrabeen                                              8am to 3pm
Sausage sizzle
 
21st: Stall, Foyer Mona Vale Hospital                          9am to 3pm
Baking, knitting, sewing, books
 
October
6th: Stall, Pittwater Place, Mona Vale                          9am to 3pm
Sewing, knitting, craft, books
 
13th: Bunnings, Narrabeen                                             8am to 3pm
Sausage sizzle
 
November
3rd: Stall. Pittwater Place, Mona Vale                          9am to 3pm
Sewing, knitting, craft, books
 
4th: Bunnings, Narrabeen                                               8am to 3pm
Sausage sizzle                                                    
 
December
1st: Stall, Pittwater Place Mona Vale                           9am to 3pm
Sewing, knitting, craft, books

Australian SAR Award

Nominations are now open for the 2018 Australian Search and Rescue Award. All nominations should be sent to the NATSAR Council Secretariat by 1 July 2018. The winner will then be announced at the 42nd NATSAR Council meeting in September 2018.

Award criteria
This prestigious award is in recognition of 'Outstanding contribution to Search and Rescue' within the Australian region. The successful nominee will have made a significant contribution to Australia's search and rescue ability or to the saving of a human life.

The award is open to any individual or organisation and may relate to a particular event or a sustained contribution to search and rescue over a period of time. Any person or organisation can nominate candidates for the SAR Award, and nominations should be completed using the official nomination form.

Award nominations relate to the financial year. An incident should have occurred during the period 1 July to 30 June.                                                                                                                                                       
History of the award
Awarded first in 1996, the inaugural winners being Senior Constable Aherne, Senior Constable Griffiths and MICA Officer Lamb of the Victorian Police Air Wing for their efforts in the rescue of three men stranded on a sinking trawler in Bass Strait on 23 August 1995. In the same year two Highly Commended Awards were presented to Mr Kevin Bald for his efforts in the rescue of a man off Kangaroo Island and to Sergeant Richard Mostard of the Bairnsdale Water Police, Victoria for the rescue of a person from an upturned trimaran south east of Gabo Island.

2017 recipients
Presented by the National Search and Rescue Council, the annual Australian Search and Rescue Award recognises outstanding contributions by individuals and groups to the Australian search and rescue system.

To recognise the importance of both professionals and non-professionals and the role they play in the search and rescue system, the award was separated this year to recognise contributions from both categories.

Presented by AMSA CEO, Mick Kinley, the 2017 Australian Search and Rescue Award was presented to the following recipients:
  • Professional Search and Rescue Award – New South Wales Police Force Marine Area Command Nemesis crew, who came to the rescue of two sailors whose yacht capsized off Sydney in one of the most publicised rescues of the year;
  • Non-professional Search and Rescue Award – Port Phillip Bay fisherman Wayne Kelly, who saved the lives of three kayakers upturned in the bay with no lifejackets;
  • Commendation Award – Western Australia Department of Fire and Emergency Service RAC Rescue helicopter 651 crew, who battled 90 km/hour winds and fading light to winch an injured cray fisherman in Israelite Bay to safety.
DOWNLOAD THE NIOMINATION FORM AT: https://natsar.amsa.gov.au/award.asp 

Return and Earn is at Pittwater RSL

Drink container litter makes up 44% of the volume of all litter in the state and costs more than $162 million to manage.
Return you empty bottles and cans to earn your 10c for every eligible container returned for recycling.
Eligible containers include:
- Drinks cans
- Glass bottles for beer, cider or soft drinks
- Plastic bottles for water, soft drinks or flavoured milk
- Single serve sized drinks cartons
(Wine and spirit bottles and casks, plain milk bottles and bottles for cordial or fruit juice are not eligible).

The returned containers are collected from us and then sorted for recycling.
You have three options of what to do with your refunds:
- Use the myTOMRA app (for iOS or Android) to deposit the funds straight into a PayPal account
- Donate to one of four charity partners (currently Cancer Council, Vinnies, Planet Ark or Surf Life Saving NSW)
- Take a voucher to redeem or spend at Woolworths

2018 AGM
The Annual General Meeting of Pittwater RSL will be held on Sunday 27th May at 10am in the Club's Auditorium.

Grants available to improve cricket facilities and participation

Cricket clubs and councils in NSW are encouraged to apply for grants to improve cricket facilities, increase female participation, and enable regional towns and cities to host elite cricket tournaments.
The NSW Government is committing $6 million over the next three years to support the growth of cricket participation in NSW. 

Funding is available for:
  • Infrastructure – The fund can be used to upgrade or create new wickets, ovals, amenities or facilities. Grants from $15,000 to $250,000 are available and may support up to 50 per cent of the net project costs.  
  • Programs and resources to grow female participation – The fund can be used to facilitate programs or purchase equipment aligned to growing female participation. Grants from $5000 to $50,000 are available and may support up to 50 per cent of the net project costs.  
  • Regional events – The fund can be used to assist regional councils to secure and deliver elite cricket tournaments. Grants from $20,000 to $100,000 are available and may support up to 50 per cent of the net project costs.  
Minister for Sport Stuart Ayres said the fund will help to improve the quality and quantity of community facilities, as well as attract world-class cricket matches to regional NSW. 

“The NSW Government is leading the way in its support of women’s sport in Australia and this fund will also improve participation pathways for female cricketers,” Mr Ayres said.

“We’re set to host more matches than any other host city for the ICC World T20 in 2020 which will generate more than $46 million in interstate and international visitor expenditure.” 

Applications close Friday 13 July 2018.

Learn more about the NSW ICC World T20 2020 Cricket Legacy Fund at: https://sport.nsw.gov.au/clubs/grants/worldt20fund

Funding Applications Open For Veterans' Health Week 2018

May 23, 2018: The Hon Darren Chester MP
Minister for Veterans' Affairs
Minister for Defence Personnel
Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for the Centenary of ANZAC
NUTRITION will be the theme for this year's Veterans' Health Week with funding for applications to support events highlighting the week now open for ex-service organisations (ESOs) and community groups.

Minister for Veterans' Affairs Darren Chester said Veterans' Health Week in September was a fantastic opportunity for ESOs and community groups to positively engage with veterans in their communities and promote the benefits of leading a healthy lifestyle.

"Nutrition plays a big part in being healthy and we know that it leads to improved wellbeing and is a part of achieving better lifestyle outcomes," Mr Chester said.

"Funding is available to support the development and delivery of Veterans' Health Week events and can include great initiatives like information sessions with dieticians and nutritionists, supermarket and grocery tours or learning more about food labels."

Mr Chester said organisations that provide ongoing support, engagement and information to the veteran and ex-service community are vital to the success of Veterans' Health Week.

"Any ESO or community group with a link to the broader veteran community is eligible to apply and encouraged to partner with other organisations that promote healthy, active and engaged lifestyles," Mr Chester said.

"Think outside the square and get creative, activities like cooking and sharing a meal are also a great way to learn new skills, meet people, share recipes and try fresh and healthy food options."

This year, Veterans' Health Week runs from Saturday, 22 September, to Sunday, 30 September 2018. Applications for funding close on 29 June 2018.

The Veterans' Health Week funding application form, resource guide and other documentation to assist event organisers are now available on the DVA website: 

Update: Remembrance Day Poppy Wall For Avalon Beach RSL 

If you liked the display in Avalon Beach RSL foyer this week of ANZAC comprised from crocheted and knitted poppies you may wish to get involved with the group that is knitting more of these for a larger display for Remembrance Day 2018. It is hoped enough are made to fill the garden and cover the garden fence of the RSL.

An donor has committed to providing the wool and another 150 balls have arrived on Thursday - all you need to do is join in!

Already 12 ladies are busy knitting and crocheting away. You can help by dropping made flowers into the Avalon Beach RSL Club or join the group in the club on Mondays at midday. Just look for Dannie Sloper.

Find out more at HERE


Planning Alerts

Planning applications: Pittwater  - Find out what's happening in your area. Get alerts of new applications near here straight in your email. It's free!

Residents Want 'Welcome to Pittwater' Sign Returned

Pittwater Online has been contacted by a number of residents this week expressing their dismay that the 'Welcome to Pittwater' sign as you come along Wakehurst Parkway has disappeared.

Although many of the former Pittwater Council logos are disappearing or being scrubbed out from the names of wharves, obviously to be replaced by the new 'design', readers have expressed this cheery sign made them many feel welcomed and gave those returning home a boost after a long day.

As Pittwater is now a Ward, with different boundaries, the wish expressed is that such a sign may be returned and placed where the new lines mark Pittwater's circumference so that good cheer may continue.
The Old
 The New?

Red Cross shop Newport

The Newport Red Cross shop desperately needs your quality, discarded clothing items. Now that spring is almost springing, perhaps you are all set to 'declutter' your offshore abode. But what to do with all those gems that are no longer you. Well donate them of course. The Red Cross shop at Newport is very excited to receive your cast offs. We also take small household items but alas, no electrical or furniture. 

Did you know that all profits from Red Cross shops stay in Australia? Profits from Red Cross shops support worthy programmes like providing breakfast for school kids, Telecross - a daily call to elderly people in need of contact, youth services, disaster relief, mental health services and much, much more.

Should you need assistance please feel free to call me or just leave your items in our boat. We live on the northern side of Lovett Bay between Now and Zen and Therese and John. The house is called 'Foreshore' and our boat is a Stabicraft for purposes of identification! 

Don't hesitate to call in to the Newport Red Cross shop with your donations - close to Woolworths petrol station at 334 Barrenjoey Rd Newport or call Lesley Scott to help with donations - 0410 687864



 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

Course for a Cause at Avalon

Just beyond the Bilgola Bends as you are about to enter the Avalon Village, nestled in behind a strip of nature that separates it from the often busy Barrenjoey Road – you have the Royal Avalon Golf Course.

Not only 9 holes of golf open to the public every day of the year, with no membership required but also one of the best located venues available for hire on the Northern Beaches, or even Sydney!

Recently we have begun a program called “Course for a Cause”. The initiative is designed to help local charities by offering free use of our facilities to raise money and/or awareness for a worthy cause.

Do you have a cause close to your heart?
Nominate your charity to become part of this program by calling 9918 2606 or emailing manager@avalongolfcourse.com.au

If you don’t want to play golf, but are still after a venue for your function, the clubhouse is available for extended hours. So with plenty of parking on sight, the time of day shouldn’t be a problem when promoting your personal cause. If you don’t have a charity, but are still looking for somewhere to party, the clubhouse can be hired to celebrate all kinds of occasions.

The bar is available and serving some of your favourite beer and wine, or take advantage of our BYO option. Day time events can always incorporate games to raise some extra money with the practice putting green beside the clubhouse being utilised for competitions or a bit of fun for the kids.

If you are interested in our Course for a Cause initiative OR would just like to hire Avalon Golf Course and clubhouse for a function, please email manager@avalongolfcourse.com.au or call 9918 2606