Profile of the Week The Kerry Gleeson Centre, Mona ValeFor more than 15 years, Kerry Gleeson has been a dedicated Lived Experience Practitioner supporting individuals and families across the Manly to Barrenjoey peninsula. Her work spans suicide prevention and postvention, grief support, trauma‑informed care, Mental health and community advocacy. Much of this support is provided voluntarily, especially to people who cannot access or have felt failed by funded services.
Kerry’s voluntary contributions include:
- Supporting families after suicide loss when aftercare services were unavailable
- Advocating for community members experiencing unsafe or inadequate care
- Assisting families facing homelessness after traumatic events
- Facilitating free anxiety support groups for Way Ahead Mental Health
- Co‑facilitating the Bereaved by Suicide group with Lifeline Northern Beaches
- Connecting bereaved parents to reduce isolation
- Chairing the Northern Beaches Council Mental Health Month wellbeing event, coordinating over 25 local services
- Assist Chair for Homelessness Interagency
- Serving on the Avalon Youth Hub Steering Group
- Contributing lived‑experience guidance to the National Suicide Prevention Strategy
Kerry has now establishing The Kerry Gleeson Centre, a not‑for‑profit designed to make this work sustainable and community‑led.
This Issue a few insights into the The Kerry Gleeson Centre, from Kerry Gleeson. Photo: Michale Mannington OAM
History Narrabeen Lakes Sailing Club History Celebration of 121 Summers Spent 'Messing About in Boats'Pittwater Offshore Newsletter:
May 1 2026 - includes: Noises Off: Why I like the play, and why I think you will too; Island Café; International Folk Dancing; Noises Off: tickets now on sale; Scotland Island Fire Brigade AGM; Flat for rent
Click on Logo to access the latest PON: 
To contact Roy: editor@scotlandisland.org.au
Mother's Day Matches: Mona Vale Raiders
Recovery is Prevention: Community Lunch
The Women's Resilience Centre and Mona Vale Chamber of Commerce are thrilled to announce our keynote speaker for Recovery is Prevention, A Community Lunch is Graeme Cowan.
Graeme is the Founding Director of RUOK, author of five books, host of The Caring CEO podcast, and one of Australia's leading voices on resilience, recovery, and the power of genuine human connection.
Graeme knows first-hand what it means to break down and rebuild. His story and the practical tools he shares are exactly what this event is about.
May is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Across Australia, communities come together to raise awareness of domestic and family violence, to call for justice, and to ensure women and families impacted have the support they need to move forward.
Details:
- When: Wednesday 28 May.
- Where: The Mona, Mona Vale.
- Cost: $65 per person, two-course lunch and keynote included.
Over $3,000 in raffle prizes drawn on the day. Our silent auction is also live now and open to everyone, bid today.
Secure your seat: womensresiliencecentre.com.au/events
Bid in our silent auction: here
2026 Sharkskin NSW IRB Premiership: Round 1
Surf Life Saving NSW is excited to confirm the dates and venues for the 2026 Sharkskin NSW IRB Premiership Series. The 2026 Series will see four rounds, culminating with the State Championships at Fingal Beach SLSC in July.
- Premiership Round 1: Warilla-Barrack Point SLS, South Coast on 1 – 3 May 2026
- Premiership Round 2: Terrigal SLSC, Central Coast on 16 – 17 May 2026
- Premiership Round 3: Queenscliff SLSC, on 30 – 31 May 2026
- Premiership Round 4: Swansea Belmont SLSC, Hunter on 20 – 21 June
Local Crews taking part
Three peninsula surf clubs are taking part this IRB Season, Bungan Beach, Newport and Queenscliff, with the number of female crews growing in this surf sport.
Those listed in Round 1 were:
- Bungan Beach Te Waka Whakatere
- Bungan Beach Chop King
- Bungan Beach Flying Bungholes
- Bungan Beach Jizzy
- Bungan Beach Shlonggy Bouys
- Bungan Beach Mini Me
- Bungan Beach Full Nelson
- Bungan Beach Aquaholics
- Newport Maroon
- Newport Masters of Disaster
- Newport Kylie
- Newport Gold
- Newport Odyssey
- Newport Joyride
- Newport Rehab Regulars
- Newport Changed
- Newport White
- Newport Knot a Chance
- Newport Knot Bad
- Newport I Can Knot
- Newport Nippy
- Newport Redline
- Newport Changing
- Newport Looking for the Buoy
- Newport Can You Knot
- Queenscliff Running on hopes and dreams
- Queenscliff Return To Shaw
- Queenscliff Cawfee for Wokren
- Queenscliff Tony Hawk
- Queenscliff Jaysons Baddies
- Queenscliff Not Our First Rodeo
- Queenscliff Masons Old Mate Reborn
- Queenscliff Chafing The Dream
- Queenscliff Why Not
- Queenscliff Just Finish It
- Queenscliff Ferrari
- Queenscliff Team B
Round 1 results
Caves Beach — 129
North Cronulla — 77
Bondi — 74
South Maroubra — 73
Thirroul — 73
Just behind:
Kiama Downs — 61
Newport — 58
Queenscliff — 49
SLS NSW states:
'Caves Beach aren’t just competitive — they’re dominant. The chase pack is tight (2nd–5th separated by just 4 pts). Kiama Downs slightly off their usual pace — but still right there.
And the big trend from 2025 is already showing:
- Depth across divisions is deciding results.
- Fast crews win races…
- Complete clubs win premierships.
This season is wide open.'
Photos of Bungan Beach S:SC crew and Queenscliff SLSC members in action by Alan Freeman
Underwater Photos pre-2000 sought
Dear community
I am part of the Centre for Marine Science and Innovation at UNSW and we are looking at what species have occupied our Sydney reefs over time.
I was wondering if anyone had any underwater photos or even any photos around our rocky shores pre 2000's. This page has been set up to upload any old diving photos: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/in-bygone-dives alternatively email me anything of interest at jack.vitnell@unsw.edu.au.
I am most interested in if you remember this golden species growing in Avalon, or if you remember swimming with the green fields of algae as a kid (second photo from South Av).
thank you
Jack Vitnell
East Coast Invitational hits North Narrabeen Beach Saturday, May 16th!
Join us on the sand for an epic showdown as the peninsula's top boardriding clubs will go head-to-head with the best of the East Coast to win $25K in cash and prizes. Expect big waves, big energy, and nonstop action all day long.
Then keep it going at the official Afterparty at The Mona, Mona Vale from 7:30pm with @theregoesmeofficial @social_strangersband and @coolangattaband
18+ | Free entry!
Don’t miss it!
Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week
Luka
7yo Pom X
Luka was found running in the bush and it took rangers a while to catch him. He was very scared and was covered in prickles and burrs. He had been recently rehomed and nobody wanted him. Since coming to us we have found him such a sweet gentle dog. He adores pats and cuddles. He has had a bath and had the worst matts cut out and still waiting for a professional clip. He is very social and friendly with other small dogs. He has a bright happy nature and loves his squeaky toys! He has a fluffy coat that needs regular brushing and grooming and he weighs 6.5kg. He is desexed , fully vaccinated, heartworm free and chipped. His adoption cost is $700.
Sailor
3yo Cocker Spaniel
Sailor is a typical friendly Cocker Spaniel who loves everybody and is also food possessed. He has a beautiful gentle nature. He is also very friendly with other small dogs. Sailor came from the pound with separation anxiety and vocalizing behaviour, often experienced with this breed. He would be best suited to a family who are used to the breed and anxiety issues. He has a medium coat that needs regular grooming and weighs 16.9kg. He is desexed , fully vaccinated, heartworm free and chipped. His adoption cost is $700.
For further details call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email Monika@DoggieRescue.com. RON R251000024
New movement guidelines for healthier adults
The Australian Government announced on Wednesday May 6 it has updated the national guidelines for physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep for adults.
An estimated 46 per cent of Australian adults and older adults don’t do enough physical activity and many don’t get good quality sleep.
The 24-hour movement guidelines provide specific advice around what makes a healthy 24 hours, taking an integrated approach that considers physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep.
Advice ranges from recommended time to spend engaged in moderate to vigorous activities, muscle-strengthening, mobility and balance activities, limiting sedentary behaviour and getting enough sleep.
The advice takes into account different populations including people with a disability and chronic conditions.
The Government commissioned a University of Wollongong-led research team to undertake extensive systematic reviews, expert consultations and community engagement to ensure the guidelines reflect contemporary lifestyles and address health inequities.
The process involved reviewing existing international guidelines, systemic review and updates of evidence, as well as expert consultation by a Guideline Development Group and stakeholders.
Further resources will soon be released to understand and apply the more technical guidelines.
Read the new guidelines here:
24-hour movement guidelines for adults & older adults (18 and over) – download brochure from the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing (PDF: 484kb)
Women Helping Women workshop 2026
What would you do during a storm if your roof started leaking?
We're excited to announce our Women Helping Women workshop 2026 will be on the 14th June 2-4:30pm at Warringah Pittwater NSW SES unit- Gate 3, Thompson Dr, Terrey Hills.
This FREE workshop is designed to support and encourage women to learn practical skills that could one day help protect their homes and family during a storm, flood or tsunami.
Sign up here: forms.office.com/r/nLPyga7EaS
NSW SES Warringah / Pittwater Unit
Community News + what ran in each Issue
Community News Pages list articles that ran each week as well as reports run in other pages: Inbox and Environment News archives etc.
March 2013 April 2013 May 2013 June 2013 July 2013 August 2013 September 2013 October 2013 November 2013 December 2013
January 2014 February 2014 March 2014 April 2014 May 2014 June 2014 July 2014 August 2014 September 2014 October 2014 November 2014 December 2014
January 2015 February 2015 March 2015 April 2015 May 2015 June 2015 July 2015 August 2015 September 2015 October 2015 November 2015 December 2015
January 2016 February 2016 March 2016 April 2016 May 2016 June 2016 July 2016 August 2016 September 2016 October 2016 November 2016 December 2016
January 2017 February 2017 March 2017 April 2017 May 2017 June 2017 July 2017 August 2017 September 2017 October 2017 November 2017 December 2017
January 2018 February 2018 March 2018 April 2018 May 2018 June 2018 July 2018 August 2018 September 2018 October 2018 November 2018 December 2018
January 2019 February 2019 March 2019 April 2019 May 2019 June 2019 July 2019 August 2019 September 2019 October 2019 November 2019 December 2019
January 2020 February 2020 March 2020 April 2020 May 2020 June 2020 July 2020 August 2020 September 2020 October 2020 November 2020 December 2020
January 2021 February 2021 March 2021 April 2021 May 2021 June 2021 July 2021 August 2021 September 2021 October 2021 November 2021 December 2021
January 2022 February 2022 March 2022 April 2022 May 2022 June 2022 July 2022 August 2022 September 2022 October 2022 November 2022 December 2022
January 2023 February 2023 March 2023 April 2023 May 2023 June 2023 July 2023 August 2023 September 2023 October 2023 November 2023 December 2023
January 2024 February 2024 March 2024 April 2024 May 2024 June 2024 July 2024 August 2024 September 2024 October 2024 November 2024 December 2024
January 2025 February 2025 March 2025 April 2025 May 2025 June 2025 July 2025 August 2025 September 2025 October 2025 November 2025 December 2025
Slow Down: Wildlife Crossing
Please contact Sydney Wildlife Rescue on (02) 9413 4300 for advice if you hit a native animal or come across an injured one while driving. It is helpful if you can provide an accurate location or landmark to assist our rescuers who will pouch check marsupials for joeys, so little lives like Phoebe can be saved.
Photo: Phoebe the Swamp Wallaby by Jane Notice
Mona Vale Residents Association
Mona Vale Residents Association is a community group encouraging involvement on important matters within the Mona Vale area. Email: mvrasydney@gmail.com
Facebook page: www.facebook.com/monavaleresidents
A tragic loss of two Marine Rescue Ballina volunteers
MRNSW Statement, Tuesday May 5 2026
Last night was the darkest night ever experienced by Marine Rescue NSW.
Marine Rescue NSW volunteers answer the call for help 24/7 and last night six members from Marine Rescue Ballina did just that. They launched with a single mission, to save lives on the water and assist a yacht, reported to be in difficulty off the South Ballina break wall.
Tragically, two of our volunteers lost their lives during the response.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Todd Andrews said the devastating loss is a solemn reminder of the risks faced by volunteers who serve their communities.
“These two men were serving their local community and have made the ultimate sacrifice to help others.
“Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of the deceased, their fellow crew members, the brave radio operators who handled the difficult communications during the incident, the entire Marine Rescue NSW family and the wider Ballina community during this incredibly difficult time.
“We are supporting our volunteers and their families through professional counselling and chaplaincy support,” Commissioner Andrews said.
For the coming days, on-water operations, including search and rescue missions will be supported by neighbouring Marine Rescue NSW units. The Marine Rescue Port Macquarie radio hub will manage radio communications for the area.
Marine Rescue NSW are assisting NSW Police with their investigation into the circumstances that led to this tragic incident, however our immediate focus remains on supporting those who have been affected.
We ask that the privacy of those involved and their families be respected during this difficult time.
Northern Beaches Police Area Command: Welcome to the team
Northern Beaches Police Area Command is proud to welcome 9 new Probationary Constables to our ranks.
Pictured here with Detective Superintendent John Duncan and Inspector Daniel Nugent at the iconic Avalon Beach, we wish each of them every success as they begin their policing careers.
Welcome — we’re glad to have you!
Photo: NBPAC
Class 368
On Friday, 01 May 2026 the NSW Police Force welcomed 349 new probationary constables, as Class 368 attests, becoming the largest class to graduate in 13 years.
NSW Police Force Commissioner Mal Lanyon was joined by Governor of NSW, Her Excellency, The Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, and Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, The Honourable Yasmin Catley MP, to welcome the new students.
The graduating students began their first day as sworn officers on Monday (4 May 2026), the same day nine cadets start their police cadetship program – the first since 1977.
The cadets – all aged 17 and 18 – have spent the last four weeks undergoing an induction.
For the next 12 months, the cadets will be placed at The Hills and Sutherland Shire Police Area Commands, where they will undergo paid experience, learning first-hand what life as a police officer involves.
Six police dogs were also attesting; three drug detection dogs named Horrace, Bachar and Quattro, and three general purpose dogs named Evie, Charger and Pride.
Class 368 is the last class to be graduating with Charles Sturt University, before the program begins with Western Sydney University.
In recognition of the long-standing relationship between the NSW Police Force and Charles Sturt University, a lecture hall at the NSW Police Force Academy has been renamed after the university.
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Yasmin Catley thanked every recruit for their commitment.
“To every officer attesting today, and every family standing behind them: thank you. NSW backs you, NSW is grateful, and we wish you a long, safe and rewarding career,” Minister Catley said.
“Every one of these 350 officers represents more support for the frontline and more protection for communities right across the state – and each of them have chosen duty, service and the responsibility of keeping NSW safe.
“The Minns Government is proud to be rebuilding the NSW Police Force. For too long, the former government failed to invest properly in our police. They capped wages, let recruitment slide and left the Force under pressure – and we know thousands of experienced officers left because it.
“There is more to do, but the momentum is real – the last class broke a 13-year record, and this class has broken it again.”
Commissioner Lanyon said he is incredibly proud to welcome Class 368 to the force.
“It is my privilege today to welcome part of a new generation of officers who will shape the future of the NSW Police Force,” Commissioner Lanyon said.
“Each recruit has already shown discipline, courage and commitment to becoming a police officer and I’m confident in their ability to serve the communities they have been placed in.
“I am proud to welcome the recruits to a career that will demand a lot of them but one that will make an impact.”
The Commissioner also presented a retired Senior Constable with the Commissioner’s Valour Award for his bravery during the pursuit and arrest of heavily armed offenders at Tugun in February 2015.
Class 368 facts and figures
A total of 349 recruits were being sworn in as probationary constables.
The class is made up of 259 men and 90 women. The youngest is 19 and the oldest is 46.
The students will attest with the rank of probationary constable.
The probationary constables’ first day on the job is Monday 4 May 2026, when they will report to stations across the state.
For the next 12 months, they will complete on-the-job training and study by distance education. At the end of the 12-month period, they will officially graduate with an Associate Degree in Policing Practice and will be confirmed to the rank of Constable.
Class 368 is made up of recruits from diverse backgrounds, including 20 First Nations recruits and 39 who were born overseas.
The graduating cohort also speak 12 languages other than English, including Assyrian, Cantonese, Arabic, Vietnamese, Korean, Macedonian, Kurdish, Afrikaans, Malayalam, Bengali and Dari.
Class 367 comprises of ages:
- 18-20 – 61
- 21-25 – 149
- 26-30 – 75
- 31-35 – 36
- 36-40 – 15
- Over 40 – 13
As part of Class 368, 49 probationary constables benefit from the recruitment initiative, Be a Cop in Your Home Town, which allows applicants to return and work in the community they live.
Eight recruits will also receive awards for outstanding academic, physical, marksmanship and practical policing achievements.
Class 368. Photo: NSW Police
Retired detectives honoured for courage shown during 1984 Spit Bridge incident
On Thursday May 7 NSW Police announced two retired detectives have been formally recognised with a Commissioner’s Commendation for Courage for their role in stopping an armed offender on Sydney’s Spit Bridge more than 40 years ago.
On Tuesday 31 January 1984, a major police response unfolded when a 35-year-old man allegedly carried out a spate of armed robberies across Sydney.
During the third incident, the offender used bystanders as human shields before commandeering a vehicle and forcing a hostage to drive him from the scene.
A lengthy pursuit followed, ending when officers intercepted the vehicle on the Spit Bridge.
As officers attempted to de-escalate the situation, the man allegedly discharged his weapon, prompting police to return fire. The man sustained fatal injuries.
In recognition of their professionalism, bravery, and decisive actions during the incident, Retired Detective Senior Sergeant Donald Stephen Parker and Retired Detective Sergeant Charles John Nagle have today been awarded the Commissioner’s Commendation for Courage.
NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon APM, said the outstanding bravery shown by former Detectives Parker and Nagle is a testament to their character and unwavering commitment to ensuring community safety.
“These two officers showed extraordinary courage on the day, while confronted with an armed offender, a hostage situation and an escalating threat to the public.
“Their actions without doubt saved lives and were selfless and unwavering in their pursuit to protect others in a moment of great danger.
“It was an honour to award them the Commissioner’s Commendation for Courage today and uphold them as an inspiring example of the very best in policing,” Commissioner Lanyon said.
Photo: NSW Police
Not done Yet: Award Winning Piemaker still at Careel Bay Shops until end of august
Daniel Roberts, the award winning piemaker who currently has Oliver's Pies at 1 Careel Head Road, stated this week he intends to keep making pies at this site until the end of his lease, which at this stage runs until the end of August 2026.
sm comm news page.jpg?timestamp=1777702786520)
Photo: AJG/PON
The council requested the developers include a separate entry to the childcare centre.
The developers are proposing one child care centre and 3 retail premises (one being a liquor store). An entry, separate from the liquor store, for the childcare centre, now forms part of the proposal.
The developer’s application to include a liquor store is still being assessed by Liquor and Gaming. Assessment takes 6 months so should be complete in the next 2 months.
From the Pittwater Online News December Community News page:
Application for Dan Murphy's at Careel Head Road
Application Details: Dan Murphy's at 1-3 Careel Head Road,, AVALON BEACH NSW 2107Application number: APP-0015360276
Date posted: 16 Dec 2025Submission period end date: 15 Jan 2026Application type: New licence - packaged liquor - bottle shopStatus: Under assessment
Details and provide feedback at: lngnoticeboard.onegov.nsw.gov.au//APP-0015360276
.jpg?timestamp=1766089263050)
Application Details: Dan Murphy's at 1-3 Careel Head Road,, AVALON BEACH NSW 2107
Application number: APP-0015360276
Date posted: 16 Dec 2025
Submission period end date: 15 Jan 2026
Application type: New licence - packaged liquor - bottle shop
Status: Under assessment
Details and provide feedback at: lngnoticeboard.onegov.nsw.gov.au//APP-0015360276
Marine Rescue Cottage Point: Return + Earn
Great news! You can now use your recycling efforts to donate to Marine Rescue Cottage Point!!
Donate Your Return and Earn Refund – It’s Easy!
Support Marine Rescue Cottage Point every time you return your bottles and cans.
Option 1: Use the Barcode
- Save the barcode to your phone (photos or files)
- Scan it at the Return and Earn machine before you start
- Your full refund from that session will be donated to our campaign
Option 2: Donate via the Return and Earn App
- Download and log in to the Return and Earn app
- Go to Charities → Browse charities
- Search for Marine Rescue Cottage Point
- Select Set as payout
- Scan your app barcode at the machine or depot before returning containers
Option 3: Donate at the Machine
- Return your eligible containers
- When finished, select Donate on the screen
- Choose Marine Rescue Cottage Point and confirm
- Every container helps keep our volunteers on the water!!
- Thank you for supporting us to support you on the water!
.jpg?timestamp=1733546206357)
MR CP 30 - the Chris Gillett
Over 3 Decades at APS: Celebration of Mrs Weber on her retirement
Lisa Weber is retiring from Avalon Public School after 32 years as classroom teacher, and Deputy Principal.
Family and friends are celebrating her long lasting impact and incredible career with a retirement party at Avalon Surf Club, and are opening the invitation up to past and present APS families to pop in and celebrate with us.
Details are:
Warriewood SLSC's Biggest Morning Tea 2026
We’re excited to invite our wonderful Warriewood community to come together for Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea — a chance to share a cuppa, connect, and support those impacted by cancer.
Where: Warriewood SLSC Members Area
Date: Sunday 21 June 2026
Time: 10am – 11.30am
Host: Cathy Milliken
Entry: $10 (cash/card)
Bring: Your own cup or mug
Provided: Tea, coffee, juice + delicious food to share
RSVP by: Friday 19 June via email: millikencathy@gmail.com
Donations, raffle prizes and shared food are warmly welcomed.
Let’s come together for a beautiful morning in support of the Cancer Council. 💛✨
