October 28 - November 30, 2024: Issue 636

 

James Spithill inducted into the Australian Sailing Hall of Fame: Australian Sailing Awards 2024

Arthur Spithill accepting James' Hall of Fame induction. Photo: Australian Sailing

Four new inductees to the Australian Sailing Hall of Fame (ASHoF) were announced at the Australian Sailing Awards and Hall of Fame Gala on Friday evening,  November 1, with those announced officially named as part of the top echelon of sailors in our nation’s history.

The top honour a sailor can receive in Australia, the ASHoF was established in 2017 to recognise the greats of the sport, those who have achieved at the highest level and contributed to make sailing what it is today, including those in supporting roles such as coaches and designers.

The first to be announced on the night was Pittwater's James (Jimmy) Spithill. A two-time America’s Cup winning skipper, world match-racing champion and multiple Sydney to Hobart Champion, James raced in his eighth consecutive America’s Cup last month. 

“It is an absolute shock and honour to be recognised in this way,” said Spithill.

“If you told me I'll be fortunate enough to skipper eight teams in eight America's Cup campaigns in a row and win a couple along the way, mate, I would have thought you were just downright crazy.

“I’d really like to thank Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club who have really supported me every step of the way, and also my family, my friends and my incredible team mates who I would not be here without.”

James' father Arthur accepted the award on his eldest sons behalf.

Growing up in Elvina Bay on Pittwater, Jimmy Spithill spent his youth surrounded by water. With no access by road, Jimmy’s home was only accessible by boat, so sailing became an everyday necessity.

“It was a way of life to spend hours on the water,” he says. “It’s like a surfer growing up at Sunset Beach.”

James started windsurfing at the age of five and when nine his father Arthur found an old abandoned wooden dinghy which they restored.

He then won the first race he entered at age 10 with his younger sister Katie. Younger brother Tom rounds out the trio of Spithill sailing excellence.

Precociously talented, James progressed to junior match-racing success before finishing third in the deadly 1998 Sydney to Hobart aboard the late Syd Fischer’s Ragamuffin.

A year later at 19 he was asked to helm Young Australia and at 20 became the youngest skipper in the history of the America’s Cup when he led the young crew into the 2000 Louis Vuitton Cup.

In 2003 and 2004 Spithill won back-to-back Nations Cup titles and in 2005 was the Match Racing World champion after a victory on home waters.

In 2003 he made the semifinals of the Louis Vuitton Cup aboard Oneworld, before being handed the reigns of the Italian syndicate Luna Rossa Challenge for the 2007 Cup which made it all the way to the Challenger Finals.

In 2010, Spithill again rewrote history as the youngest winner of the America’s Cup as helmsman and skipper of BMW Oracle Team.

“It was relief and ecstasy, like a huge weight came off my shoulders,” he said about the 2010 win.

Three years on he led one of the greatest sporting comebacks ever, as Oracle Team USA came from minus two behind to beat New Zealand 9-8 to claim his second America’s Cup victory.

He was again at the helm of Oracle’s 2017 defence Bermuda, where they lost to the innovative challenge from Emirates Team New Zealand by a score of 7-1.

Spithill then join the Challenger of Record entry, Luna Rossa Challenge and in 2021 he steered Luna Rossa to victory in the Prada Cup before losing in the Finals, and in 2024 Luna Rossa made the final of the Louis Vuitton Cup.

James Spithill, AC, Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team. Credit: Luna Rossa/Carlo Borlenghi

Spithill now holds the honour of winning the most races in the history of the America’s Cup as a skipper.

This sailing ace has also raced five Sydney Hobarts with his results including a line honours win in LDV Comanche in 2017.

He was also helmsman and CEO of the United States SailGP Team from 2020 to 2023 before departing to launch the Italy SailGP team.

During his stellar career he won Australian Male Sailor of the Year twice in 2006 and 2010 and was named Rolex World Sailor of the Year in 2014.

He's is also known locally as a really nice bloke, always has time for youngsters and goes out of his way to inspire and foster the next generation of sailors.

James at BYRA in 2023

James Spithill shared some great insights and inspirational messages - the young sailors of BYRA were stoked

The other three inducted into the ASHoF were the only sailor in history to defend an ILCA 7 gold medal at the Olympics, Matt Wearn OAM,  Australian great in Sailboarding with four Olympic appearances and multiple world titles to her name, Jessica Crisp, and Lindsay Cunningham AM, who was recognised with his induction as one of the greatest and most innovative multihull designers of all time. In addition to being an accomplished sailor, Cunningham’s contributions include the design of many of Australia’s best catamarans.

The Australia Sailing Awards were held in Sydney on November 1 2024, celebrating the best in this sport and the great achievements across the past year.

 

Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby Sworn In

Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby, taking the Pledge of Loyalty
On Tuesday November 12Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby was sworn in as a Member of the NSW Legislative Assembly.


In an email to residents the MP for Pittwater stated:

''I was walked into the chamber by my fellow independents Alex Greenwich (Independent Member for Sydney) and Michael Regan (Independent Member for Wakehurst). NSW now has the largest crossbench of independents in its history with 10 members

Taking the Pledge of Loyalty was a proud moment for me personally, but also a moment of humility reflecting on the enormous trust the people of Pittwater have placed in me and the responsibilities that come with that.

Now, it's officially time to get to work on delivering our priorities.

I promised to hit the ground running, with just over two years of this parliamentary term remaining there’s no time to waste, and I’m determined to make good on that promise.

I know our community wants to see an end to vape and tobacco shops that are potentially operating illegally. In the first few days of parliament, legislation has passed to protect our community against illegal tobacco sales and related crime, such as the break-in at the Friendly Grocer Avalon. I voted with the Coalition to increase the penalties for illegal tobacco operations and will continue to call on the government to do more.

I’ve met with Ministers, including the Minister for Roads in relation to Mona Vale Rd and the broader Northern Beaches Road Strategy and the Minister for Planning to fight against the Mid-Rise Housing Strategy allowing 6-7 storey buildings in R3 zones with further announcements anticipated prior to the end of the year. These fights will be long ones – but they have started.   

I’m excited to join an influential and effective cross bench to deliver for Pittwater and ensure our voice is heard on broader NSW issues. As an independent, serving my community instead of a political party is a key part of how I do politics differently.

I'm incredibly proud to be the new MP and represent the people of Pittwater. 

Constituents have had almost three months without an MP, so I'm keen to hear from you and help you resolve any state-related issues.

The electorate office is at Suite 1, 1725 Pittwater Rd, Mona Vale and will be open for visitors from Monday 18 November. 

In the meantime, you can contact me via pittwater@parliament.nsw.gov.au or ring the office on 02 9999 3599.

My inaugural speech in the NSW Parliament will be in February next year when parliament resumes, and I’ll let you know the date ASAP as it would be wonderful if you could make it.

As we embark on this journey, I’d like to thank everyone again for placing your trust in me.

My team and I will work hard to represent everyone in Pittwater by doing politics differently, free from party politics, listening and working together in the interests of this community. It’s a new way of doing things and I look forward to using my strong independent voice to benefit the people of Pittwater. '' Pittwater MP Scruby stated

At: www.jacquiscruby.com.au

Alex Greenwich, Independent Member for Sydney, and Michael Regan, Independent Member for Wakehurst, with Jacqui Scruby, Independent Member for Pittwater.

On November 7, 2024 the NSW Electoral Commission stated: ''We have returned the writs for the Epping, Hornsby and Pittwater State by-elections.''

The writs were signed and returned by the Acting Electoral Commissioner for New South Wales, Dr Matthew Phillips, to the Speaker of the NSW Legislative Assembly, the Hon. Greg Piper MP.

Results for Pittwater

Total Votes / Ballot Papers 48,700
Votes Distributed - 345 to Scruby, 667 to Ryburn
Exhausted Votes - 881
Informal - 1,250

RENNIE Doug LP - 1,893 First Preference Votes
RYBURN Georgia LIB - 19,852 First Preference Votes
SCRUBY Jacqui IND -  25,705 First Preference Votes

Progressive Totals
RYBURN Georgia LIB - 20,519; 44.06%
SCRUBY Jacqui IND - 26,050; 55.94%

View the by-election results and for more information: https://bit.ly/3YEO8GT

 

Remembrance Day in Pittwater 2024: The Service Conducted by Avalon Beach RSL Sub-Branch

Lieutenant Charlotte Menhinick, RAN, Avalon Beach Sub-Branch Member, and Avalon Beach RSL Sub-Branch Vice President and former RAN Lieutenant Commander Tamara Sloper-Harding OAM. Photo: AJG/PON

Remembrance Day Services were held across Pittwater on Monday November 11th 2024. 

At Avalon Beach RSL cenotaph there was standing room only. Elder Veterans of conflicts that occurred before some attending were born, were joined by members of local businesses, Legacy Widows and young children from Avalon Public school. 

Representing Mackellar MP Dr Sophie Scamps was Rebecca Clarke and Meredith Robinson, with another key staff member representing Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby. Cr. Rowie Dillon attended representing Mayor Sue Heins.

Pittwater MP Scruby attended an equally large Service at the Pittwater RSL Cenotaph, led by their Sub-Branch president Deborah Carter. 

A large contingent of students from local schools attended the Pittwater RSL Service, including students from Mona Vale Primary school, whose Honour Boards list almost 200 former students who have served Australia as Defence Service personnel since the school was inaugurated in 1906. 

Samantha Shaw led the hymns at Avalon. Prayers and Flag ceremonials were conducted by Avalon Ministers and Sub-Branch members.

Avalon Beach RSL Sub-Branch Vice President and former RAN Lieutenant Commander Tamara Sloper-Harding OAM conducted the Service and introduced the Guest Speaker, daughter of President Richard Menhinick RAN, and serving member of the RAN, Lieutenant Charlotte Menhinick.

Tamara Sloper Harding said in her introduction:

As our members know I’m constantly talking about welcoming the next generation of Service men and women to the RSL. It’s essential for the longevity of the League and in order for us to fulfil our Charter and purpose of looking after Veterans and their families. 

Our Sub-Branch is blessed to have a large number of contemporary Veterans and members in our membership. I’m of ten asked ‘where are they?’ at meetings and functions.

They are still serving our nation, they’re on Active Duty, deployed around the globe on land, air and sea. So what a wonderful connection they are for us to today’s ADF. They are perfectly placed to keep us abreast of current issues and challenges, and prepare us for the best ways to support our Veterans in the future.

Today we have the privilege to have one of them here to present the Remembrance Day Address. And I know that her father wishes he was here to introduce her.

Charlotte Menhinick was born and raised in Canberra. After her parents moved to the US for work she then attended Barker College in Sydney as a boarding student. This parting was good practice for her mother Michelle because Charlotte then joined the Royal Australian Navy for as a Gap Year Sailor in 2017.

On completion of Basic Training she then worked as a General Duties sailor in Cairns before applying successfully to be a Maritime Warfare Officer in 2018. She completed her training at HMAS Creswell and since then has served on a variety of ships. 

She gained her Bridge Watch Keeping Certificate at HMAS Watson in 2021 and then was posted to the guided missile destroyer HMAS Hobart as an Officer of the Watch. 

During her two years on Hobart Charlotte consolidated her skills as a Maritime Warfare Officer. Her time at sea included two regional deployments in the vicinity of northeast Asia and the south China sea. So, you can only imagine what that was like.

She was posted to the Sail Training Ship Young Endeavour as an Operations Officer in mid-2023. In this role she is part of an amazing team of Royal Australian Navy officers and sailors, who are specially trained to sail a square-rigged tall ship and deliver a youth development program for young Australians. 

So ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Lieutenant Charlotte Menhinick.

Lieutenant Charlotte Menhinick:

I’m sure most of you know my dad, I’m Lieutenant Charlotte Menhinick, I’ve been a Naval Officer for 8 years and have sailed on multiple operations on numerous ships.

It is my privilege this morning to deliver your Remembrance Day Address.

Since Federation Australia has been called on many times to serve in operations and conflicts. They have served on o under the sea, on the land and in the air.

In August 1914 Britain declared war against Germany and Australia, following in her wake, joined soon after. The First World War is remembered on land, for its brutal trench warfare, the use of artillery and machine guns; at sea for the big fleets and the mass use of submarines to disrupt trade. And of course, in the air; combat occurred for the first time ever, with dog fights between fighters and bombers and massive civilian deaths.

Known as the Great War, it remains one of the deadliest conflicts in history. In just over 4 years 17 million people were dead. Amongst the lives lost were more than 60 thousand Australian service personnel. 

For a young nation, still fresh from Federation, the loss of life was devastating for every community.

The fighting stopped when an Armistice between the Allied countries and Germany came into effect at 11 o’clock on the morning of the 11th of November 1918. 

The momentous announcement that fighting was over on the Western Front caused joyful celebrations around Australia – but that joy was not universal. Too many had died, too many were wounded and made ill by their war service. There was a schism that ran through society, with numerous families having lost loved fathers, husbands and sons. Others were maimed physically and mentally scarred for life.

It was out of this conflict the RSL was resolved. 

In 1919 King George V called for two minutes silence at 11am on the 11th of November. At the appointed hour people around Australia gathered before local memorials and paused together in reflection to remember the dead, beginning a tradition that we honour still today.

On Remembrance Day we gather not to glorify war but to remind ourselves that we value who we are and the freedoms we possess, and to acknowledge the courage and sacrifice of those who came before us. Those service men and women that contributed to shaping the identity we have as a nation, and those who continue to Serve.

In our modern world we are constantly confronted with devastating news about at any hour of the day. Some nights my phone will light up at 9pm, as I am getting ready to sleep, to politely inform me that Russia has dropped another bomb on a Ukrainian town or that tensions have once again escalated in the Middle East.

It is easy to grow apathetic in the face of an overwhelming barrage of bad news, but it is our duty to the fallen Australians, and the fallen Allies who have fought with us for over a century, to pause and honour them, and to not give into despair and apathy.

As my dad said last year; all of us here today are fortunate to live in a democratic country, where our government is decided at regular intervals via orderly ques of citizens, pieces of paper and a cardboard voting box. Not by guns, secret police or government terror. However, events in the world, and even some disgraceful behaviour recently at home, reminds us that a duty of being a citizen in a democratic country is to stay vigilant and to be active in the community; to ensure that those who wish to impose hatred, intolerance or violence on us are called out so that all in our society can live in harmony and peace in our beautiful land. 

The fact that we can enjoy a democracy sausage is due in large part to the sacrifices of those who have gone before us, who have fought against those who have fought and defeated those who sought to impose a totalitarian regime on us. 

We are fortunate to have access to quality education, where you have the right to learn and to speak freely and debate with your own ideas. We have unlimited access to news publications and the right to make up our own opinions based on what information is made available. These rights are held because those who have gone before us have fought those battles to ensure we have and keep these rights.

As I speak today, man and women of your Army, Navy and Air Force, decent everyday Australians with families and friends, are serving you, our country, and the cause of freedom here and all over the world. 

As I stand here today ships and submarines are serving, some in northeast Asia, as I was two years ago, ensuring the transport lines, such as freedom of navigation in international waters are maintained. We have pilots flying in international air space dong the same, and we have soldiers deployed across many regions of the world. 

Members of the Australian Defence Force are also diplomats, and beacons of hope of what it means to be Australian to people across the world. 

Australia beat England in the rugby yesterday; an amazing last minute breath-taking victory that the Wallabies managed to pull out for the ages and record books. [England vs Wallabies (37 - 42)]

But I wish to draw your attention to the pre-game ceremony; the Last Post, the Minute of Silence, the Reveille. There, in front of 80 thousand people, the collective sacrifice of two nations for freedom, liberty and humanity was honoured. There front and centre was an officer of the Australian Army, in full ceremonial dress and slouch hat carrying our flag alongside a comrade British Officer and their flag. 

This is showing what we are and why we have fought together for the world.

This is indicative of what the young Australians who serve today are doing for the world as part of our Defence Force do.

I think we are the same as those who have gone before us and take immense pride in how we serve. We have the memories and deeds of our forebears to look to and uphold.

This is the greatest country on earth, we just need to understand what makes it so great.

Together, as we remember 103 thousand dead Service Australians, and the Service of those who survived, and those who still Serve, take a moment to reflect on our country and how lucky we are to live in this place.

As you go back to your daily life, take a few minutes in your day to investigate the devices behind the divisive headline, to not give in to stereotypes, and seek to maintain a civilised dialogue in all our conversations with each other.

It is our duty to the fallen to care about our fellow Australians, to care about what is behind the stories people are trying to sell us, and to engage in our countries struggles in the world.

Thank you very much.

 

Bronze for Team Australia at 2024 ISA World Para Surfing Championships

Team Australia wins Bronze Medal. Photo: ISA/Pablo Franco

Australia has two new world champions, with Jocelyn Neumueller (Park Holme, SA) and Kai Colless (Burleigh Heads, QLD) winning gold medals in their divisions at the 2024 ISA World Para Surfing Championship, held November 3-9 US time at Huntington Beach, California.

The Irukandjis Para Surfing Team took home a total of eight individual medals and an overall bronze at Surf City USA, Huntington Beach. Joel Taylor (Lennox Head, NSW) claimed silver, while Emma Dieters (Mona Vale, NSW) and Cliff Gralton (Tuncurry, NSW) secured bronze. Mark 'Mono' Stewart (Byron Bay, NSW), Kirk Watson (Mona Vale, NSW) and Matt Formston  (Wamberal, NSW), each earned copper in their respective divisions. Chris Astill (St Leonards, NSW) and Chris Blowes (Netley, SA) also reached the Finals in their divisions.

Australia, fielding their strongest team in many years, claimed their first Team Medal since 2017 with Bronze. 

Jocelyn Neumueller said: "I am stoked that we were able to take out the World Championship title in the Prone 2 category in such challenging conditions. It really tops off what was a great week, scoring the top two highest heat totals of the comp, and is a testament to the hard work my whole team has put in this year.

"Getting to lead our team as co-captain and achieve a team bronze medal just took the experience to a whole new level! I couldn’t be prouder of the team and what we achieved together.

"Massive shout-out to Insurance Advisernet for backing us this season! Their support amped everyone up, and it was awesome to bring home our first team medal since I started in 2021."

Jocelyn Neumueller. Photo Credit: ISA / Pablo Franco

 Kai Colless. Photo Credit: ISA / Pablo Franco

Kirk Watson. Photo Credit: ISA / Sean Evans

Emma Dieters. Photo Credit: ISA / Pablo Franco

Kai Colless said: "It feels incredible to take the gold and be crowned 2024 ISA World Champion, but even more so in the same year as winning back-to-back AASP 2023 and 2024 Professional World Championships.

"Representing my country and being part of the Irukandjis Team has been an absolute honour. Being on the beach each day and celebrating all of our team's achievements has been amazing, and I’m really grateful for our team coach Josh and his input and encouragement this past week. I’m going home to graduate high school this coming Friday, so I’m looking forward to celebrating with all my family and friends."

Also competing as part of the Irukandjis Team were Lee Ferrier (Narrabeen, NSW), Michael Fonti (Nowra, NSW), and Annie Goldsmith (Erindale, SA). Joining them at Huntington Beach was Head Coach, Josh Fuller and Team Manager, Byron Hoskins.

The ninth edition of the ISA World Para Surfing Championship (WPSC) has come to a close after a massive week of action in ideal conditions at Huntington Beach. 

ISA President Fernando Aguerre said:

“What an amazing ISA World Para Surfing Championship, held and presented by Surf City Huntington Beach. It was incredible days, great waves. I remember at our very first Adaptive Surfing World Championships, which was the original name, one of the competitors was asked about their hope for the event. Their answer was simple: ‘I hope to bring home hope.’ And that’s what we all bring. We hope that you take hope home.

“We will continue our paddle for Paralympic Surfing. We will continue our paddle for a better world through surfing and para surfing, and we will continue to support this amazing community. Congratulations to every one of you. Thank you to Visit Huntington Beach and big, big thank you to all the volunteers and the staff of the ISA for making this event an amazing history-making event.”

MORE HERE

 

Australian Boardriders Battle Central Round at North Narrabeen: Freshwater Boardriders win 

Winning club Freshwater Boardriders. Photo Credit: Peter Balmer

The Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle Central NSW qualifier at North Narrabeen has been won by Freshwater Boardriders Club. After a great day in the sun at North Narrabeen Beach, the Australian Boardriders Battle Central NSW qualifier sees other local boardrider clubs qualify to progress. 

The crew from Freshwater Boardriders comprised Lex O'Connor, Fletcher Kelleher, Tommy Myers, Layne Beachley, and Sam Brown.

Freshwater had multiple standout moments as they progressed through heats, but it was team leader Tommy Myers who carried his team to victory.

"This is probably one of the sickest days of the whole year., " Myers said. "Congratulations to all the other finalists and teams. We traditionally haven't always been in the final, so it feels good to start to get a bit of momentum and have some great juniors coming up through Freshy!"

North Narrabeen, Queenscliff, Bungan, North Steyne, Freshwater, North Avalon, Avoca, and Curly United have now qualified for the Hyundai ABB Grand Final, which will be held on March 8-9, 2025, at Burleigh Heads, QLD.

Surfing NSW Contest Director Corey Ross said: "We were super excited to head to Narrabeen for stop number two of the NSW Regional Qualifiers for the Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle. 

We had a record 16 clubs locked in to compete for the prize of being the Central Region's best boardrider club. Waves were fun for the event, in the two-foot range with light winds all day. There was plenty of exciting action, along with a number of sponsor activations at the event, so there was lots to do for everyone."

As can be seen from the photos from Surfing Australia, the Australian Boardriders Battle rounds are proving to be a great family event for all ages and a chance to see some of the best local surfers in action.

Final Results:
1st - Freshwater Boardriders
2nd - North Narrabeen Boardriders
3rd - North Steyne Boardriders
4th - Avoca Boardriders

Awards:

  • Boost Mobile Wave of the Day Winner - Talia Tebb (Avoca)
  • Oakley Prize Performer Award - Jordy Lawler (North Narrabeen)
  • Dometic Top Performing Junior Award - Sol Gruendling (North Steyne)
  • Jim Beam Club Spirit Award - Freshwater Boardriders Club

Clubs that competed in the event included Merewether, Norah Head, Dee Why, Avoca, Freshwater, Wamberal, North Avalon, North Steyne, Curly United, East End, Queenscliff, North Narrabeen, Bungan, Long Reef, Mona Vale, and North Shelly.

Local team crews were:

North Avalon Surfriders Assoc (NASA)
Van Whiteman
Shane Carroll
Ollie Heinz
Molly Shepperd
Isaiah Vaeleki

Bungan Boardriders
Darcy Crump
Luca Elder
Milla Brown
Lucy Brown
Phil Hoile

Mona Vale Boardriders
Harry Stevenson
Jasper Welsh
Archie Hellmich
Mark Lacroski
Chloe Bosnjak

North Narrabeen Boardriders
Nathan Hedge
Davey Cathels
Jordy Lawler
Jesse Daish
Ruby Trew

Long Reef Surfers Association
Baxter Hurt
Steve Clements
Gabi Spake
Ruben Casteigt
Jonny Grainger

Dee Why Surf Fraternity
Ben Zanatta
Gor Ozharosky
Isaac Buckley
Luke McManus
Brooke Carlson

Curly United
Harley Ross
Brett Moore
Ed Aubrey
Mikel Bang
Lola Aspiosis

Freshwater Boardriders Club
Lex O'Connor
Fletcher Kelleher
Tommy Myers
Layne Beachley
Sam Brown

Queenscliff Boardriders
Sampson Coulter
Winter Vincent
Austin Ware
Hunter Sutcliffe
Georgia May Hicks

North Steyne Boardriders
Sol Gruendling
Blake Levett
Dayyan Neve
Izzy Higgs
Tiaan Cronje

There are more than 230 boardrider clubs across the country, where members gather regularly, often monthly, to organise grassroots competitions at world-class waves such as Burleigh Heads on the Gold Coast. The boardrider club phenomenon in Australia has made a significant contribution to the nation's competitive success on the global stage, fostering close-knit communities that support young surfers on their journeys to becoming the next World Champions.

Surfing Australia last year expanded the Grand Final format to include 42 boardrider clubs (previously 24) from across Australia, with more than $115,000 in total prize money up for grabs throughout the series.

There are three specialty awards presented at each regional round: The Jim Beam Club Spirit Award, Oakley Prizm Performer Award and Boost Mobile Wave of the Day.

The Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle Series is proudly supported by naming partner Hyundai and support partners Jim Beam, ACCIONA, Ruffie Rustic Foods, BC™ Protein Snacks, Kennards Hire, Oakley, Dometic, Boost Mobile, Blackroll and Surfers for Climate.  

The Hyundai ABB Gold Coast Grand Final is supported by Experience Gold Coast and the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland.

For more information, please visit australianboardridersbattle.com.

A few more happy snaps of the on sand variety:

Winning club Freshwater Boardriders. Photo Credit: Peter Balmer

Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby Sworn In

James Spithill inducted into the Australian Sailing Hall of Fame: Australian Sailing Awards 2024

Pittwater Chillies winners in Pan Pacs 2024

2025 NSW Australians of the Year Announced

Remembrance Day in Pittwater 2024: The Service Conducted by Avalon Beach RSL Sub-Branch - Address given by Lieutenant Charlotte Menhinick

Council Consultation on Special Variation to Rates to commence this week

From the Council Chamber - meeting November 12, 2024 by Pittwater Greens Councillor Miranda Korzy

Newport Beach to Bilgola Beach Coast Walk Tender Accepted to 'Design + Construct'

National anti-vaping program for young Australians: schools can register interest now

Bronze for Team Australia at 2024 ISA World Para Surfing Championships

Aquatics Australian Boardriders Battle Central Round at North Narrabeen: Freshwater Boardriders win

Pictures Turimetta Moods: November 2024 by Joe Mills

Entries open for Pantaenius Pittwater Regatta 2025 by Di Pearson

Park Bench Philosophers Troubled waters: how to stop Australia’s freshwater fish species from going extinct

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Issue 636 November 2024: Week Two

Profile of the Week: Pittwater Natural Heritage Association (PNHA) Celebrates 30 years by PNHA President Marita Macrae

History: Mona Vale Primary School's World War Two Honour Roll Board: The Stories Behind the Names

Surf Life Saving Australia’s National Awards of Excellence: Newport Wins Community Education Program of the Year 

A Turtle-y Awesome Rescue by Whale Beach SLSC + Shell us what you see this Summer: TurtleWatch needs your help!

Dr. Sophie Scamps, Mackellar MP, Tables 'Save the Aussie Bush' Petition in Parliament

Mackerel Beach Wharf Upgrade Design Open for Feedback: Submissions close Sunday December 4

Muogamarra by Dr Peter Mitchell OAM and John Illingsworth

Northern Beaches Hospital Nurses and Midwives walk off the job - reminder: Submissions to the public audit of Northern Beaches Hospital close Friday November 15

Australia Post urges councils to take strong action as dog attacks on Posties continue: Northern Beaches Council Dog Attack Numbers for 2023/24 Higher than LGAs with more than twice the number of registered dogs

Aquatics: Newport SLSC's Surf Boat Carnival on Saturday November 16 will be A Taste of Fantastic Local Surf Sports Carnivals for All Ages this 2024-25 Season: A few Local Surf Boat Carnivals from the 1920- 1960 Insights

Pictures: Careel Bay Marina Environs

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Issue 636 November 2024: Week One

Profile of the Week - Week One:  Kimbriki Open Day to Celebrate 50 years: 1974 to 2024 

History Week One November 2024:  Dr. Isobel Ida Bennett AO: Tasmanian Krill Research Aquarium to be named for Our Girl

State Government announces 'E-scooters kick toward legalisation in NSW', releases an E-Micromobility Plan: calls for Mandatory Registration, third-party insurance, 'keep them off footpaths' rise in response

Shearwaters washing up on local beaches for third year in a row: Mass Mortalities of Starving Birds attributed to Australia's Lose-Lose Policy on the Australian Environment

Pictures Halloween in Pittwater 2024 - some photos by Joanne Seve

Winners Crowned at the Rip Curl GromSearch National Final: Local Winners

Team Australia Wins Bronze at 2024 ISA World Masters Surfing Championship: NASA Surfer Shane Conwell Part of Irukandjis Masters

Aquatics Sydney Coastal Councils Group selected as Finalist in LGNSW 'Excellence in the Environment Award' for Manly's Little Penguin Education Campaign

Australian Government Announces Proposed Changes to student loan repayments

Covid-19 Inquiry Report Released: Government to deliver new Australian Centre for Disease Control

IPART seeks feedback on water pricing proposals: Submissions close December 9

Food Spinach (or Kale), Ricotta and Chicken (or Mushrooms) Cannelloni: Spring Dishes to give you Vim!

Narrabeen to Mona Vale: Proposed Roads and Walkways Safety Changes - NB: Council has updated their Draft Plans on Friday October 18, Feedback to Closes November 24

Avalon to Palm Beach: Proposed Roads and Walkways Safety Changes - Feedback to Council Closes November 24

Profile of the Week Peninsula Seniors Toy Recyclers: Call out for Toys - 50th Year to be Celebrated in 2025

Website: peninsulatoys

Pittwater Online News has been speaking to Terry Cook, president of the Peninsula Seniors Toy Recyclers, whose 50th Year commences in July 2025.

They have an urgent need for toys to meet demand this coming Christmas - some of these are sent overseas.

Ideally, they want to re-gift a toy in as new a condition as possible, so they are happy to thoroughly clean and repair where necessary.

However, toys that are badly damaged or are a safety risk, will probably end up being disposed of, so please, before you bring toys to them, consider if their condition is good enough to clean and repair and give to your children.

Toys needed include everything that youngsters would love to play with, from fluffy animals, to dolls, to board games, to puzzles, to musical instruments, to sports equipment, to electronic games, to bicycles and to dress-up clothes for girls and boys.

‘’We supply toys from ages of a few months up to 18 years.’’ Terry explains.

More in this week's Profile.

    History Boulton's Jetty on 'Old Mangrove Bay' + Newport hotel jetty + Newport Public wharf: Some history

    The installation of jetties and then a public wharf at Newport's Pittwater side provided access for farmers sending produce and goods to market, and provided access for landing to the thousands of excursionists who began arriving via steamers from the late 1860's on.

    With roads that were little more than tracks, Pittwater was alike a Venice of the south, with water access providing connections and communication. These also provided access across Pittwater for those who lived here. 

    Initially people were using private jetties with those building them having a commercial interest that required a jetty. As time went on, and public wharves were built by the state government, and then maintained by the council, recreation became a primary reason for these, although connection and communication remains at the core of these wharves today.

    Pittwater still has children who commute by ferry to school, we still have a connection to Brisbane Water and Patonga, along with all our glorious western shores and Scotland Island, via the ferries. People still need to transport food, themselves and needed items via private vessels and ferries to places where they need access to land via a decent wharf that will not leave them aground at low tide.

    Of the four that were originally at Newport, three were for commercial enterprise and one, after they became defunct, was for everyone.

    This page shares a few insights into the chronological sequence of those jetties and that public wharf.

    Community News Appeal for information after projectiles thrown at B-Line buses, Carols on the Green 2024 at Av. Bowlo, Libs Announce former RSL NSW President as 2025 Candidate for Mackellar, Boondah Road, Warriewood - Upgrade: feedback sought, Government ends unfair ticketless parking fine system, Peninsula Seniors Toy Recyclers: Call out for Toys, New information to support strata communities and assist with property owner strata debt, Australia Post unveils festive new stamp collection for Christmas 2024, Hon Michael Knight AO appointed to Statutory and Other Offices Remuneration Tribunal, Newport Community Garden, Elanora Heights Christmas Market: Saturday November 30, Just Launched: Living Ocean's OceanSounds!, Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week: Charlie + Cara, New household battery incentives now available for NSW, Boost for Faith community safety with $5 million funding, Legal matters made easier with new Legal Aid NSW client portal, Marine Rescue Broken Bay New Leading Crew, VXOne NSW State Championship 2024-2025, Avalon Boomerang Bags: Festive Bags,  Newport Residents Association Meeting: Guest Superintendent John Duncan,  Anticipation builds for the Hansa World and International Championships, Dippers at Warriewood Beach, Pittwater Ocean Swim Series 2025, Children's Art Class With Meredith Rasdall, Council's Draft Child Safe Policy and Child Safe Code of Conduct: Have your say,  Safer Neighbourhoods Program: Narrabeen to Mona Vale, Avalon Beach to Palm Beach Safety Zone - have your say, 2024 Spiral NSW State Championships: Pittwater, Shoosh for Youngsters: Calling all junior summer sports!, New technology to detect floods and bushfires: Grants open, Council's Draft Managing Unreasonable Conduct by Complainant Policy: Have Your Say, Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: November 2024,  Eramboo Artist in Residence program applications, Life-saving defibrillators available for NSW sports facilities, $5 million available for NSW Surf Clubs, 2024 Anzac Community Grants applications open, Marine Rescue Broken Bay: Christmas Raffle 2024, Whale Beach SLSC: Members Needed, Pittwater  Organisations, Sports, Social, Environment and Groups Lists

    Environment Ruskin Rowe Tree Vigil Update: November 2024, NCC: NSW must strengthen Biodiversity Offset laws as threatened species list grows: 48 uplisted in 2024, NSW Government Approves HumeLink transmission link, Framework to support NSW’s clean energy future announced, Birds at Our Window: Scaly-breasted Lorikeet, Helping map Monaro koala populations, Crown Reserves Improvement Fund Grants now open: Closes November 22, NSW Parliamentary Inquiry into the management of cat populations in New South Wales: open for submissions until November 22, Garigal National Park: ‘1080 pest management’, Events: Invitation to NBCAN Picnic and Soapbox Sunday 17 November + The Koalas: Film Screening at Collaroy - Nov. 17 + African Violet Show and sale + Introduction to Permaculture Course: Nov. 23-24 at Narrabeen, Avalon Film Festival 2024 + Silver Surfers + Ocean Festival 2024: 30 November - 8 December + Free Festive Fun at the Coastal Environment Centre: 1 December 2024 + Solar & Energy Roadshow – Narrabeen Tramshed: Dec 12, NSW Water Consultations open for Public Submissions:  Billabong Creek EIS; NSW Recycled Water Roadmap; Murrumbidgee water sharing plan; Gwydir water sharing plan; Macquarie/Wambuul water sharing plan; Namoi-Peel water sharing plan; Macquarie-Wambuul Water Security Project, Hunter Coast national parks now hiring, Science To Revive Our Oceans: SIM's has a PHD Opportunity - operation Crayweed, Discussion paper: Review and report into the NSW wildlife rehabilitation sector, ‘Catastrophic declines’: massive data haul reveals why so many plants and animals suffer after fire, ‘Death hotspot’: we found 145 koalas killed along a single Queensland highway last year, Tiny oceanic plankton adapted to warming during the last ice age but probably won’t survive future climate change – new study, The COP29 climate talks are about to kick off in Baku; Here’s what to expect, A single atom can change the colour of a bird; These are the genes responsible, Mangroves in the Maldives have been drowning as sea level rises – new study, You will soon be able to power your house with your electric car; Here’s how, If our hot water heaters ran off daytime solar we would slash emissions and soak up cheap energy, Orbital by Samantha Harvey wins the 2024 Booker prize – a short but powerful story urging us to save the planet, A beginner’s guide to greenwash and four ways to avoid falling for it, Scientific models trust the land to soak up lots of CO₂ – the reality is a lot more messy, Companies are buying up cheap carbon offsets − data suggest it’s more about green-washing than helping the climate, Authoritarian fossil fuel states keep hosting climate conferences – how do these regimes operate and what do they want?, Prime time for cicadas: what a once-in-1,547-year bug population surge tells us about the nature of reality,  Plastic Bread Ties For Wheelchairs, Volunteers for Barrenjoey Lighthouse Tours, Stay Safe From Mosquitoes, Mountain Bike Incidents On Public Land: Survey, Report fox sightings, Marine Wildlife Rescue Group on the Central Coast, Watch out - shorebirds about, Possums In Your Roof?: do the right thing, Aviaries + Possum Release Sites Needed, Bushcare in Pittwater: where + when, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment Activities, Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations in Pittwater, Ringtail Posses, Pittwater Reserves: histories + Notes + Pictorial Walks, Pittwater's Birds, + more

    Children  Sunday Cartoons: "Laika & Nemo" - by Jan Gadermann & Sebastian Gadow, All 4 One at Schools Spectacular first combined rehearsal, Christmas Ads 2024: clebrating the most wonderful time of the year, Curious Kids: how did spoken language start? + Why do we need soap? + What is dew? + How can Jupiter have no surface? A dive into a planet so big, it could swallow 1,000 Earths +  Why does everything look flat even though the Earth is round?, Stories this Issue:  If Mice Pulled the Sleigh (kids books read aloud) + 'Fresh Juice' read by Da'Vine Joy Randolph + More.

    Youth All 4 One at Schools Spectacular first combined rehearsal, Have a plan – 5 ways young people can stay safe at schoolies, National anti-vaping program for young Australians, TAFE Fee-free* courses - semester 1 2025 enrol now, TAFE NSW apprentice plumber gets a jump on career to join next-gen tradies, Natteisha waltzes into new career shaping young hearts and minds, Word Of The Week: Delightful, Government to impose ‘duty of care’ on digital platforms: Communications Minister Rowland, The Incas used mysterious stringy objects called ‘khipus’ to record data; We just got a step closer to understanding them, Why is the oboe used to tune an orchestra?; And other questions about tuning answered, A 41-million-digit prime number is the biggest ever found – but mathematicians’ search for perfection will continue, Meta now allows military agencies to access its AI software; It poses a moral dilemma for everybody who uses it, TikTok and WHO are getting together to help combat widespread health misinformation on social media, Stitched: from high-born women to crofters’ daughters, exhibition showcases two centuries of Scotland’s finest embroidered art, Five animals that behave differently in moonlight, Cacti are surprisingly fragile – and five other intriguing facts about these spiky wonders, Ancient Greece’s cultural rise started a century earlier than previously thought – new research, Can you sleep your way to better decision making?; Here’s what the science says, London: Lost Interiors – new book provides a rare look inside of Victorian, Edwardian and early 20th century houses, A distant planet seems to have a sulphur-rich atmosphere, hinting at alien volcanoes, + local services for you

    Seniors Pittwater Chillies winners in Pan Pacs 2024, Where and when no news is bad news, Ageing and Disability Commission data shows increased reports about abuse by relatives, Scam prevention framework crucial step towards protecting older Australians from scams, Report shows aged care providers’ concerns over Australia’s readiness for an ageing population, Aged & Community Care Providers Association requests delay in Nurses pay-rise, ASIC’s lawsuit against Cbus has put the big super funds on notice, Australia has backed away from plans to introduce local quotas on streaming platforms – again, Silver Surfers Event: November 29, Vale Leon Paroissien: the first director of the Museum of Contemporary Art who shaped how Australians experience art, AvPals Term 4 2024, Brain-training games remain unproven, but research shows what sorts of activities do benefit cognitive functioning, Local events, services, groups for you + more

    DIY Ideas Spring Garden Care + A Salad Garden For Children: Inspire them to Grow what they will Eat this Summer

    Spring has definitely Sprung, the air smells sweet, days are getting warmer, and people are wanting to get outdoors and enjoy the day.  This is a time to enjoy your garden and get ready for a brilliant crop of your own salad ingredients or just do those little chores that will mean your garden is a great place for the family and visitors to enjoy over the coming months. Children can be engaged in planting out 'mini' crops such as grape tomatoes or baby carrots or be helped to plant out luscious herbs such as parsley and basil to make great salads even better.

    For those aiming for a tick-free Spring and Summer, now is the time to put in some bird attracting native plants that will eat these insects ( Attracting Insectivore Birds to Your Garden: DIY Natural Tick Control ) or plant out some of those herbs and flowers that repel these biters (Reducing Ticks in Your Garden: Garden care, Plants that Repel, What to Wear Outdoors) or think about having a few chickens for fresh eggs - chooks also eat ticks.

    A few ideas about little things you can do now that will make a big difference for Spring and Summer runs this Issue

    Inbox News NDIS providers put on notice about consequences of misleading advertising: ACCC, ACCC publishes ‘free range’ labelling guidance for poultry industries for a potential H5N1 outbreak, Online games should not be included in Australia’s social media ban – they are crucial for kids’ social lives: USyd., Increased support for women with severe menopause symptoms, Applications open for program to boost women’s employment opportunities in NSW, New appointees to Venues NSW board, More paramedics and call takers to join NSW Ambulance, Free dental check-ups for NSW children, NSW to rollout new free RSV prevention program in 2025, Our new study shows teen vaping is linked to childhood trauma; Here’s why it might be harder to quit, ACCC to livestream public hearings for Supermarkets Inquiry, Domestic airfares increase amid reduced airline competition, Mail order company Magnamail in court for alleged misrepresentations to hundreds of thousands of consumers, Blackstone’s proposed acquisition of I’rom raises concerns, Sigma and Chemist Warehouse proposed merger not opposed; subject to undertaking, Shortsightedness is on the rise in children; There’s more we can do than limit screen time
    Events Carols-Carols-CAROLS!, Christmas Panto at MV for Littlies - get in quick, Introduction to Permaculture Course at Narrabeen, RPAYC and RMYC events, Regattas, Schools Hols sailing options, Solar & Energy Roadshow at Narrabeen Tramshed, Music -music - MUSIC!, Ocean Festival 2024, Christmas Markets, Book events, Flower Show, Local NYE options, Social Groups, Dancing classes + more.

     

    Spring in pittwater: November 2024 

    Pittwater Online News is Published Every Sunday Morning


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