November 1 - 30, 2025: Issue 648

 

Narrabeen's Mo'onia Gerrard Inducted To NSW Hall of Champions

Mo’onia Gerrard with her NSW Hall of Champions award. Photo supplied

Narrabeen Netball great Mo’onia Gerrard OAM is one of five NSW sports greats inducted into the NSW Hall of Champions this week.

Also inducted into the Hall of Champions are Graham Arnold (Football), Ricky Stuart AM (Rugby League), Naazmi Johnston (Gymnastics) and Mark “Mono” Stewart (Adaptive Surfing).

Netball great Liz Ellis AO was officially recognised as a Legend of NSW Sport at the prestigious NSW Champions of Sport Ceremony at The Star Event Centre, Pyrmont, on Monday, November 24.

Netball great Liz Ellis AO is the second Netball player to be elevated to Legend Status in the NSW Hall of Champions, located at the Quaycentre at Sydney Olympic Park.

As an NSW Hall of Champions Legend, Ellis joins the company of fellow Netball player, Anne Sargeant OAM, Sir Donald Bradman AC, Dawn Fraser AC MBE, Shane Gould AM MBE, Ian Thorpe AM, Louise Sauvage OAM and others in the highest echelon of NSW sport.

Liz Ellis AO and another local Netball Legend, Anne Sargeant OAM, at the 2025 NSW Champions of Sport Ceremony

Sport NSW Chief Executive, Stuart Hodge, paid tribute to Ellis and to the five new inductees.

“Liz’s tireless contribution and leadership, both on and off the court, has been immense over several decades. The sport of Netball and the wider NSW sporting fraternity owe Liz a huge debt of gratitude for her services, and we are delighted to see her elevated to Legend status in the NSW Hall of Champions,” said Hodge.

“We also congratulate Graham, Mo’onia, Naazmi, Mark and Ricky on entering the NSW Hall of Champions. They join other NSW sports greats who have served NSW and Australian sport with honour and distinction,” added Hodge. 

The gala Ceremony dinner also celebrated the achievements of NSW athletes, coaches, administrators, and organisations across 12 Award-winning categories including Athlete of the Year and Athlete of the Year with a Disability. 

MORE HERE

 

Tom ''turbo'' Trbojevic appointed Captain at Manly

Photo: Manly Warringah Sea Eagles

On Monday November 24 2025 the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles proudly announced that Tom Trbojevic has been appointed Captain for the 2026 NRL season.

A homegrown talent and one of the game’s elite players, Trbojevic takes on the role just weeks after extending his contract with the Club.

Sea Eagles coach Anthony Seibold is confident Tom will embrace the role.

''Tom leads through his actions on and off the field'' Mr. Seibold said, “On the field he is an elite player who has a big influence on team performance.

“Off the field, not only is he highly respected by his teammates but he is a highly regarded member of the local community.

“I know he’ll do a great job as captain.”

Trbojevic said he is excited to lead the team into a new season.

“This means a lot to me, and I’m thrilled to take on the captaincy,” Tom said.

“It’s a privilege and I feel very honoured to take on the role. It’s a proud moment.”

“The next few months of pre-season will be tough but it’s an exciting time for all of us as we prepare for the new season.”

In a media interview after the announcement Tom said while the captaincy announcement won't impact his future plans, it provides added motivation in his quest for a maiden NRL premiership.

"I’ve always said when I’m playing NRL I want to play here, obviously having grown up in this area I always wanted to put on the colours and I want to do it to the best of my ability," he said. "I signed for another year, which is great, but that’s what we want to do.''

"We want to win a premiership and I haven’t been able to do that. I’m back into pre-season this week and that’s what we’re working towards. ''

 

Jacqui Scruby - Council - Long Reef Boardriders - Maria Psillakis Call for Expanded Drone Surveillance to Improve Safety at Beaches

Drone and pilot. Photo: supplied by Surfing NSW 

Independent Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby is calling for an expansion of the Surf Lifesaving NSW and Surfing NSW Shark Mitigation Drone Programs, particularly for metro beaches, in the wake of another tragic death and serious injury from a shark attack.

Ms Scruby called for more funding in the 2026 NSW Budget.

“One of my key asks for the NSW Budget will be for expansion of these proven programs to metropolitan beaches. For a few million dollars we can have better data, surveillance and safety.”

“Metro beaches are missing out on drone surveillance for sharks and, after the tragic loss of Mercury Psillakis, we know we need this technology to keep the water as safe as possible for swimmers and surfers.”

See: Narrabeen to Manly Beaches Closed After Fatal Shark Incident

“Sharks are an inherent risk of entering the ocean - but it’s 2025 and too many beaches are missing out on the technology we know works. Metro beaches need the technology to spot sharks and relay real-time data for immediate management, if required.”

Ms Scruby was speaking in the aftermath of another death from a shark attack.

On November 27 two swimmers were attacked by a shark at Kylies Beach in the Crowdy Bay National Park, south of Port Macquarie.

The pair on the remote NSW beach have been confirmed as Swiss nationals Livia Mühlheim and Lukas Schindler.

Livia passed away as a result of her injuries and Lukas was seriously injured when he tried to fight off a 3m bull shark attacking her.

Despite his injuries, Mr Schindler dragged his partner more than 50 metres to shore, where bystanders rushed to help.

Emergency services were called around 6.30am but Ms Mühlheim succumbed to her injuries before paramedics arrived. Mr Schindler was stabilised by emergency services before being airlifted to John Hunter Hospital where he remains in critical condition.

Maria Psillakis, Long Reef Boardriders, NBC Call For Expanded Drone Safety Surveillance at Popular Beaches

This was the fifth fatal shark attack in Australia this year, and just three months after our community lost Mercury Psillakis, 57, who sustained critical injuries from a 3.5-metre great white shark attack at Long Reef.

Since this his boardriding club fellow members, Long Reef Boardriders Association, along with his much-loved wife, Maria, have been calling for an expansion of the existing drone surveillance program at beaches in NSW, especially at the more frequently used surf breaks and swimming spots in Sydney. 

Maria and Long Reef Boardriders members visited the NSW Parliament in October to speak to Independent local MP's Jacqui Scruby and Michael Regan about the need for shark mitigation, more safety drones at local surf and swim spots, along with dune stabilisation, seawalls, access to community assets like Surf Clubs and funding for surfing.

Maria's proposal has been raised directly with NSW Premier Chris Minns, according to Wakehurst MP Michael Regan, who has said the premier was “making sure” the idea is investigated.

Maria, Long Reef Boardrider members, Wakehurst MP Regan and Pittwater MP Scruby with Surfing NSW's Luke. Photo: LRBA

At the Tuesday November extra council meeting Northern Beaches Council held this week to clear Items not addressed in the monthly meeting the week before, NBC Councillors passed the Motion first tabled at the October 21 meeting by Cr.s Bingham and Harvey calling for 'increased drone surveillance and listening stations across all major patrolled beaches along the metropolitan Sydney coastline, to enhance swimmer safety and support proactive shark management'.

The now passed Motion includes that the NBC 'Write to the NSW Government requesting increased investment in shark-related drone surveillance for Surf Life Saving NSW (SLSNSW), as well as funding for training of all volunteer life savers to operate drones, jet skis for surveillance and boat patrols by the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries.

A copy of the correspondence has been sent to the Premier and local State Members of Parliament for their awareness and support.

Backgrounder: Development of the Use of UAV's/Drones as Surf Safety Equipment

UAV operations are primarily aerial surf safety patrols using drones to provide additional surveillance of the beach environment to enhance the safety of the public. This includes monitoring surf zones, identifying rips, swimmers in difficulty and looking for other hazards such as sharks.

MORE HERE

 

Council Stands With Community on Objections to State Significant Development at Ocean Street Narrabeen - Culturally Significant Black Bean Trees to be destroyed - Site is Adjacent to Former grave of 'Narrabeen Man'

Signs of the Times at Narrabeen, November 1 2025. Pic: ELG/PON

On Thursday Thursday, 27 November 2025 the Northern Beaches Council confirmed it has joined the local community in voicing opposition to the proposed State Significant Development at Ocean Street, Narrabeen, citing issues with size, height, traffic and  scale inappropriate for the location.

State Significant Development (SSD) applications are determined by the NSW Minister for Planning, the Independent Planning Commission (IPC) or a delegate of either, essentially sidelining the council from the decision-making process and local planning controls that have been formed in consultation with the community.

In a letter to the New South Wales Government, and as part of formal submission the council stated it has raised numerous issues regarding the Ocean Street development and is seeking an extension to the community feedback period to provide residents additional time to review and respond to the plans.

Key issues raised by the council include: 

 •  significant concerns with the scheme include its height, scale, streetscape context, setbacks, overshadowing impacts, potential view impacts, traffic impacts and lack of appropriate response to relevant controls 

•  that the proposal in its current form is an overdevelopment of the site, is inconsistent with the character of the area and would have unacceptable impacts on adjacent developments and surrounding area. 

Mayor Sue Heins reaffirmed the council’s commitment to advocating for the community’s interests throughout this process.

“The scale of the proposed development at Ocean Street, Narrabeen, has raised significant concerns across our community. It’s crucial that local voices are not only heard, but genuinely considered in any planning decisions.  

“We urge the State Government to work with us in addressing the concerns raised and to give our residents a real voice in shaping the future of Narrabeen.

“The character and liveability of our suburbs are at stake, and we must ensure that any development genuinely benefits our community,” Mayor Heins said.

The council stated the ''community can view the council’s formal submission here and on the Department of Planning's website. There is also a community petition that people can sign here''.

The proposal fills 156-164 Ocean St, 8 Octavia St, and 81 & 81A Lagoon St, Narrabeen. The construction proposes a 5 to 6 storey seniors housing development of over 21 metres in height, with 3 levels of basement car parking spaces (192 in total including 7 for visitors and up to 11m of excavating to provide this), 149 independent living units listed as 44 x 2B units; 59 x 2B + study units; and 46 x 3B units, and a 10 bed residential care facility.

Among the 746 responses are a number submissions of support from Narrabeen, Collaroy and Mona Vale residents and several from 'Caringbah South' and Oyster Bay in southern Sydney by respondents who work in the industry and even some from Queensland who think the trees are 'being kept'. Numerous supporters state the proposal, for 149 units, will free up larger housing for others as retirees 'downsize'.

Objections point out this is luxury housing for more privileged residents, sits within mapped Coastal Environment and Coastal Vulnerability Areas (on a sandspit), an excavation over 11m deep poses flooding, groundwater, and structural risks, and that the BASIX assessment barely meets minimum standards with little passive design or energy efficiency.

Culturally Significant Trees+ 'Narrabeen Man'

A comment from a previous owner of 8 Octavia Street Narrabeen wanted to make it known there are two significant black bean trees side-by-side on the property which are of considerable value to the ecology and history of this site. 

''It would be of great benefit to the area if they could be retained.'' the prior owner commented

This pair of culturally significant black bean trees are to be destroyed, as listed (35 and 36) in the Arboricultural Impact Appraisal and Method Statement lodged with the NSW Planning Department, as part of the proposal. 

The Botanic Gardens of Sydney states genetic studies of Castanospermum australe (the black bean) discovered that its unexpected distribution pattern in New South Wales is the result of humans deliberately dispersing this tree to new places.

''The black bean tree is a culturally important riparian (growing near a river) tree that produces toxic but highly nutritious water-dispersed seeds. It is common in the understorey of old-growth forests, growing up to 40 metres high, and producing long orange to red flowers. Its large fruit pods are buoyant and salt tolerant, and the seeds within them are known to have been detoxified and consumed by rainforest dwellers in the Australian wet tropics for at least 2,500 years.''  - Botanic Gardens of Sydney 

Castanospermum australe flower. Photo: Jan Smith, Brisbane.

Due to its importance as a food, the black bean tree,(also known as the Moreton Bay chestnut), was a seasonal gathering point for Aboriginal peoples, and this acted as a catalyst for ceremonies. Songlines featuring the black bean seeds have been collected. The bark fibre has been used for fish and animal traps, nets and baskets, and the empty seed pods have been used as toy boats. The wood was/is used by Aboriginal people for spear-throwers. Additionally, the tree has been used as a seasonal signal for when to hunt jungle fowl.

The project seeks to remove 69 trees (24 of which are significant) and will retain 13 trees (7 significant trees and 6 non-significant). The trees to be retained are neighbouring trees and those on the periphery of the site including the well-established Norfolk Island Pine trees located along the Ocean Street and Octavia Street frontage. Any understory of these trees will likely be removed and re-landscaped, the EIS states.

Another contractor is undertaking the Aboriginal community consultation and preparing an Aboriginal cultural heritage assessment report (ACHAR) to meet the Secretary's environmental assessment requirements (SEARs) for the proponent. 

A report lodged so far found that is 'no built environmental heritage' the proposal may impact on. The ACHAR may be a different matter, and would require taking into account potentially uncovering First Nations peoples materials and objects should the 'up to 11m of excavations' go ahead.

MORE HERE

 

Narrabeen Ambulance Station Site Redevelopment Confirmed: Jacqui Scruby MP states New Narrabeen Ambulance Station will save lives

Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby at Narrabeen Ambulance compound.

On Monday November 24 2025 NSW Minister for Health Ryan Park confirmed the community will benefit from a new ambulance station, with the current Narrabeen Ambulance Station set to be replaced on its existing site.

The new Narrabeen Ambulance Station is one of 30 additional ambulance stations being delivered as part of the Government’s $615.5 million NSW Ambulance Infrastructure Program.

The new and purpose-built ambulance station will boost frontline health infrastructure and support local paramedics to provide the best emergency and mobile medical care now and into the future for the growing region of Sydney.

The existing site on Pittwater Road was confirmed as the most suitable location to optimise response performance and meet the future emergency health needs of the community following an extensive land search across Dee Why and the Manly to Barrenjoey peninsula.

Pittwater MP: New Narrabeen Ambulance Station will save lives

Jacqui Scruby MP for Pittwater says a new ambulance station at Narrabeen announced this week will save lives by ensuring we have locally based paramedic services.

“This is a huge win for Pittwater. We will retain a station with Intensive Care Paramedics, which was at risk of being lost to Dee Why when I first came to office. 

“Losing Narrabeen Ambulance Station was one of the first issues I raised with the Health Minister, challenging the assumption that a mobile network of ambulances would adequately meet our needs. I stressed that being on a peninsula on the outskirts of Sydney, we simply can’t leverage the radius of available ambulances - we are one road in, one road out and Narrabeen must remain.

“I am appalled by the state of this station. It’s been neglected for decades - with busted windows, ambulances that don’t fit inside being prepped in the rain, and lax security with scheduled prescription drugs. It is 65 years old and former governments and local Liberal MPs have failed to upgrade and provide safe work conditions. It  is shameful.

“I’d like to pay tribute to the ambulance crews and their Health Services Union (HSU) representatives whose actions blacklisting the site were the catalyst for this announcement from the Government. The whole community will benefit from their advocacy, as well as their ongoing service.

“Our ambulance workers deserve safe and fit-for-purpose stations, and investment in Narrabeen is long-overdue. 

“I’ll push the government to commence works as soon as possible and to work with the HSU representatives to make sure the site is fit for purpose, including drainage works to prevent flooding. 

“This is a vital upgrade, which will ensure more paramedics and faster response times across Pittwater and the Northern Beaches. It will undoubtedly save lives,” said Ms Scruby.

Minister Park has confirmed our community will continue to have 24/7 ambulance coverage during planning and construction of the new Narrabeen Ambulance Station. NSW Ambulance is consulting with staff about temporarily relocating crews to Mona Vale Ambulance Station throughout the construction timeframe to maintain service levels.

new ambulance station was opened at Mona Vale Hospital campus late in 2021.

MORE HERE

 

Independent MP Zali Steggall calls for urgent action to support Warringah’s craft brewers and distillers: excise Tariff Amendment Bill Falls short

Photo: Zali Steggall MP with John O'Connor, founder of Brookvale-based Goodradigbee Distillers, at Parliament House in September 2024

Independent Warringah MP Zali Steggall has called for stronger support for independent alcohol producers, warning that excise tax pressures and rising costs threaten the future of small brewers and distilleries.

The Albanese government has introduced a bill to pause beer excise indexation for two years. But this applies only to tap beer – not to beer in the bottles and cans most commonly used by independent brewers. And the measure offers no assistance to spirits distillers.

Warringah is home to a vibrant craft brewing and distilling scene, including Freshwater Brewing Company, Four Pines and Manly Spirits Co. Distillery.

On Tuesday, November 25 Steggall told Parliament that breweries and distillers are “a cornerstone of the Warringah community”, employing local people and underpinning community events such as BrookieFest.

“But in recent years they have grappled with pandemic-era debt, soaring inflation and an ever-increasing excise burden,” Ms Steggall said.

More than 50 independent brewing businesses entered voluntary administration or closed in the two years to April 2025, according to the Independent Brewers Association. 

In her speech, moving an Amendment to the Excise Tariff Amendment (Draught Beer) Bill 2025, Ms Steggall cited alarming figures showing:

  • excise on beer and spirits has risen by about 20% since February 2020
  • ingredient costs have skyrocketed - hop prices increased by up to 50% between 2020 and 2022, and malt costs rose nearly 20% between 2022-2023
  • utilities and storage costs have also surged, squeezing margins for small producers.

Breweries contribute almost $2 billion to the economy each year and distillers have the potential to grow to be a $1 billion export industry by 2035.

In September last year, Ms Steggall and other crossbench MPs wrote to the Treasurer advocating for alcohol excise relief for small alcohol producers – but these producers will see few benefits from the proposed legislation.

Steggall called on the government to expand relief to include independent alcohol producers, and undertake other measures to help new and independent players thrive against large industry incumbents.

MORE HERE

 

SLS SNB Premiership 2025-2026 Surf Boat Series Round 2 hosted by Palm Beach SLSC: The Boaties Family Continues to Thrive under Historic Barrenjoey Headland

The first two rounds of the Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches Brach 2025-2026 Surf Boat Premiership have been run, the first hosted by Freshwater SLSC on November 8, the second by Palm Beach SLSC on November 22, and see Palm Beach SLSC sitting atop the Leaderboard on 33 points, with South Curl Curl running next among local surf clubs on 19 and Mona Vale SLSC just two points behind them on 17.

Queenscliff at position 6, Collaroy at 7, Freshwater at 8, Avalon Beach at 9 and North Narrabeen at 10 round out the top rankings so far this Season. 

Visitor surf clubs and crews taking part in this carnival included Brook's As and Purds As from North Cronulla, MacMasters Meaty-Oars, MacMasters Fat Dads and MacMasters Martinis, Coogee DMG's, Coogee Commandos and Coogee Havachats, and South Maroubra Swingers. Elouera's Team A - Reserve Male Surf Boat, were scheduled to race but didn't make it.

The Freshwater Carnival saw visitors in the Gerringong Pearls and the Shabangs, an U23 Female Surf Boat crew from South Maroubra, make the trip for racing.

MacMasters SLSC's crews at Palm Beach

Two former Presidents, Matt Sheridan and Ashley (Ash) Cardiff, of Warriewood and Avalon Beach, and both long-term huge supporters of surf boats and local surf sports carnivals

Palm Beach SLSC Legends, including SLS SNB official and Alex Tyrell

Round 3 in the 2026 Boat Premiership takes place January 10 and 11 2026 at North Steyne, and then it's the Young Guns carnival hosted by Collaroy SLSC from January 24-25, before Branch Championships commence at Freshwater and Queenscliff, with the Boats Comp. at Queenscliff on Saturday February 7.

On February 13 to 15 the ASRL Interstate Open Boat Championships take place at Wanda this Season. The SLS NSW State Championships, back at Swansea-Belmont this Season, take place February 25 to March 1 for Boats. The AUSSIES Surfboats races take place at Tugan March 25 to 29.

None of this can take place without the volunteer officials who run these carnivals. Below is Avalon Beach SLSC's Melinda Akehurst and Tammy Carter, both also SLS SNB Officials at the Carnivals, who like many Branch officials, have worked for years at these, State and even at Aussies, paying their expenses of getting there and back from their own pockets, which amounts to thousands each year, to ensure these carnivals go ahead and the learning and team-man-and-woman-ship at the core of them, which saves lives, continues.

Mona Vale helping Newport

MORE HERE


Week Five November 2025 (November 24-30)

Narrabeen's Mo'onia Gerrard Inducted To NSW Hall of Champions

NSW Inquest examining whether meat allergy caused by Tick Bites Caused teenagers death: Pittwater has Highest Number of people living with this allergy

Jacqui Scruby - Council - Long Reef Boardriders - Maria Psillakis Call for Expanded Drone Surveillance to Improve Safety at Beaches

Council Stands With Community on Objections to State Significant Development at Ocean Street Narrabeen - Culturally Significant Black Bean Trees to be destroyed - Site is Adjacent to Former Grave of 'Narrabeen Man'

Australia Post Dog Attack Warning as Christmas Runs Begin - deliveries to a property or street will Cease if a Postie is threatened or injured by an aggressive dog - 2024-2025 Dog Attack Statistics for NSW Not Released + South Australia's Tougher Penalties for Dog Attacks Begin 

Aquatics A new lens on rock fishing safety through AI camera trial: Barrenjoey to Manly high risk rock fishing declared areas map - Lifejacket required

Independent MP Zali Steggall calls for urgent action to support Warringah’s Craft Brewers and Distillers: Excise Tariff Amendment Bill Falls short

State Government's Ticketless Parking Fines Data reveals Northern Beaches Council issued 11,658 Fines in September 2025 Quarter

Warringah Rugby Club female-friendly change facilities Opened: Caps off a HUGE Year for WRC

Narrabeen Ambulance Station Site Redevelopment Confirmed

Pictures  SLS SNB Premiership 2025-2026 Surf Boat Series Round 2 hosted by Palm Beach SLSC: The Boaties Family Continues to Thrive under Historic Barrenjoey Headland

Zali Steggall MP pays tribute in Parliament to Manly gender-equality trailblazer Sara Dowse

Wind gods in force at Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Short Ocean Racing Championship by Di Pearson

Manly's Beauty Features in 2025 Underwater Photography Competition winners Images

Council Appeal on Oxford Falls Seniors DA Successful: Errors on Questions of Law Grounds

Park Bench Philosophers Employer action drives drop in gender pay gap for 2025 - Women still earning 21% less than Men + Men earn nearly $10,000 more than women in bonuses and overtime pay, fuelling the gender pay gap: new data

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Week Four November 2025 (November 17-23)

Profile:  Deep North: Invites you to Dive into the First Weekend of Summer through a Music-Food-Talk-Activities-Art-Festival in Celebration of here

History:  The Peninsula Senior Citizens Toy Repair Group - A History for the 50th Anniversary  

Community Calls for Narrabeen Seniors Proposal to be Referred to IPC - Mona Vale Save Our Suburb Residents Group Formed - 2 Motions passed at council meeting

Regan Tables Development on Bushfire Prone Land Protection Bill 2025

Pictures Warriewood Community Centre Build: November 2025 Update by Joe Mills

Aquatics Another memorable Bullets Regatta! by Dick Clarke, Commodore of Palm Beach Sailing Club

Oscar Piastri and Layne Beachley Win the Don and Dawn Awards - Australia's Most Prestigious Sporting Honours: 2025 Sport Australia Hall of Fame Gala

Parli-Flicks Short Film Award 2025: Local Youngsters Film among Winners

Avalon PS Re-Opens Nura Djaroba by Geoff Searl OAM

Strata overhaul reaches 'final milestone' as fourth reform bill is introduced to NSW Parliament: Double-hit fees-council rates still not addressed - Issues Paper for review into strata managing agents Open for feedback (Until December 14)

Park Bench Philosophers CSIRO Announcement it will Cut more Staff sparks Concerns Over Future of Science in Australia with the loss of 20% of workforce in just 18 months - CSIRO Job Cuts Undermine Australia’s Future Prosperity and Security: Scamps

Kellie Sloane elected NSW Liberal Leader as Mark Speakman steps down

DIY Ideas Christmas Lights Safety Tips + Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 Black Friday Sale runs until November 30 – Perfect to Get Ready for Christmas - New Years 

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Week Three November 2025 (November 10-16)

Profile:  Australian Sailing Awards 2025 National Winners: RPAYC's Julia Hornsby Volunteer of the Year,  Saltwater Veterans Sailing Project Club of the Year,  Australian Sailing Lifetime Achievement Award to RPAYC's Ted Anderson

History:  Scotland Island's Public Wharves: Some History

Scruby slams government and opposition teaming up to make it easy for developers as NSW Planning System Reform Bill passes - community asks: who are these elected Representatives actually representing?

Pictures Palm Beach Sailing Club's 2025 Beware the Bullets Regatta

Aquatics  The Irukandjis WIN Eight Medals and Team Copper at the ISA World Para Surfing Championships!

Remembrance Day 2025: Commemorative Service at Palm Beach RSL Cenotaph

Marine Rescue NSW volunteers record busiest ever start to boating season + Marine Rescue Cottage Point, Broken Bay, Hawkesbury conduct joint Training Exercise 

Where is Surf Life Saving going World-Wise? by Warren Mitchell OAM

Newport Pool to Peak Kicks Off Pittwater Ocean Swim Series 2026

Avalon Baptist Peace Church kicked out of NSW Baptist Association over Marriage Equality

2026 Australians of the Year for New South Wales announced

Yule have a great time in Sydney this Christmas - lots of Free Family events, what's on where and when

Park Bench Philosophers MCA Australia announces artist line-up for its major summer exhibition Data Dreams: Art and AI + Ancient Feelings - until April 2026

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Week Two November 2025 (November 3-9)

Profile of the Week: Peter Watson, Founder of Men's Kitchen: Nominee for 2026 Senior Australian of the Year for NSW

History: The W. G. Taylor Memorial Home at Narrabeen: Some History  

2025 National Architecture Awards: Local Projects among Winners Include Babylon House

2026 Australian of the Year Awards Nominees for NSW Announced: includes Peter Watson - Dr. Jennifer Matthews

Australian Boardriders Battle Narrabeen Qualifier: 8 Teams into Final

Rotary NSW Police Officer of the Year Awards 2025

Kai Ellice-Flint  and Rachael Tilly Crowned 2025 World Longboard Champions Declan, Tully and Max get great wrap

Over the Top Narrabeen DA Draws Large Crowd to Peaceful Protest: 'This is about Community Standing up For Community'

Council's Open Coast & Lagoons Coastal Management Program (CMP's): Scoping Study Feedback until Dec. 14

Labor's Pro-mining - Pro-Logging 'Environment Protection Reform Bill 2025' passed by house of representatives - Mackellar - Warringah MP's addresses

Minns Condemns neo-Nazi rally: Calls Residents to reject neo-Nazis - Community Leaders ask all to reject hatred, division, extremism 

Bill to Stop Politicians Harvesting your Data Via Postal Votes Introduced: Petition to support Bill

Scamps Urges Minns Government to Urgently Engage with NBH Medical Staff on Private Services

Pictures New Pittwater Pathways films - Latest on NSW Planning Law Changes: Pittwater MP + Assoc. Prof. Tanya Latty on 'Saving the little critters that run the world' at PNHA AGM + Synthetic Turf: Myth Vs. Reality - Community Forum at Mona Vale by John Illingsworth 

Aquatics Graham "Sid" Cassidy to be inducted into the Australian Surfing Hall of Fame

Park Bench Philosophers  Art exhibition Celebrates Veterans’ Transitions Beyond Service 

Profile of the Week Tom ''Turbo'' Trbojevic appointed Captain at Manly

On Monday November 24 2025 the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles proudly announced that Tom Trbojevic has been appointed Captain for the 2026 NRL season.

A homegrown talent and one of the game’s elite players, Trbojevic takes on the role just weeks after extending his contract with the Club.

Trbojevic said he is excited to lead the team into a new season.

“This means a lot to me, and I’m thrilled to take on the captaincy,” Tom said. “It’s a privilege and I feel very honoured to take on the role. It’s a proud moment.”

In a media interview after the announcement Tom said while the captaincy announcement won't impact his future plans, it provides added motivation in his quest for a maiden NRL premiership.

"I’ve always said when I’m playing NRL I want to play here, obviously having grown up in this area I always wanted to put on the colours and I want to do it to the best of my ability," he said. "I signed for another year, which is great, but that’s what we want to do.''
History Pittwater's Ocean Beach Rock Pools: Southern or northern Corners Of Bliss for the first week of summer 2025-2026

The Rock pools that form a feature at the southern ends of Pittwater beaches remain one of the most popular places to meet up with friends and enjoy a dip or do laps. These are places our children learn to swim, places we can sit and relax, and places where those young and not so young anymore maintain fitness and good health all year round.

This week a dive into some of the best places to cool off as the Season heats up and their many changes.

Community News Council supports bushfire readiness for offshore residents, Tobacco closure orders register, Narrabeen NSHS P&C Car Boot Sale, You’re Invited: Family of League Christmas Party 2025, Avalon Bulldogs Announcement: Female Tackle Teams Kicking Off in 2026!, History in the Making: Female Tackle Coming to the Narrabeen in 2026!, Oppose the Planning Reforms: Petition, Barrenjoey Artwalk 2025,  Avalon Beach SLSC Stalwart Hand-Delivers 100 Years Book, Sharks in the news again for all the wrong reasons, Palm Beach Golf Club News, Turbo appointed Captain at Manly, Mona Vale Boardriders - Northern Beaches Para Surfer BC Presentation Night 2025, Bungan Boardriders Celebrates 10 Years -  Elects First Ever Female President, Avalon Beach Historical Society December 2025 Meeting, Lion Island Yacht Race 2025, NASA - North Avalon Surfriders Association: End of Year Preso., Community Grants Program Now Open, Pittwater High School P & C News, Marine Rescue Middle Harbour launches Club 500 fundraising programme, Productivity and Equality Commission releases Issues Paper for review into strata managing agents, Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week: Woody +Gem, 2025/26 Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program, Council meetings: new rules Will End the Public Forum Address, Proposed lease expansion at Church Point: Have your say, Mowanna Dads' Group, Petition: Stop Politicians from spamming & harvesting our data, James Griffin MP Launches ‘Future Manly’, Disability safeguards consultation: share your thoughts, Have your say: 2026-27  Pre-Budget submission, Marine Rescue Broken Bay Christmas Raffle 2025, Avoid the Christmas rush with Australia Posts last-sending dates,  Pittwater Residents Associations, Sports, Environment and Groups, Pittwater Offshore Newsletter

Environment NSW Inquest examining whether meat allergy caused by Tick Bites Caused teenagers death: Pittwater has Highest Number of people living with this allergy, Tawny Frogmouths in Pittwater, Mona Vale Dunes bushcare group Update: last work morning for 2025 will be on Thursday December 13, Seasonal Bushfire Outlook Summer 2025: Australian and New Zealand Council for fire and emergency services, The Bureau issues long-range forecast for Summer, Long-sought environmental law reform is finally here. But will the compromise deal actually protect nature? + More than 100 Australian conservation groups called for Labor’s environment law changes to be rejected + Scamps Measures Retained + Samuel 'delighted' + Grattan on Friday: when the music stopped, Greens had out-stepped flat-footed Liberals on environment deal, Birdwood Park Bushcare Group Narrabeen looking for members, Council's Open Coast & Lagoons Coastal Management Program (CMP's): Scoping Study Feedback invited until December 14, NSW Government invests $20 million to grow state’s aquaculture industry: submit ideas now, Emission reduction technology pilot for Appin coal mine approved, Crisafulli Government recommends approval for new koala killing - climate polluting coal mine: Lock the Gate, Adani vs Pennings: Victory Statement By Ben Pennings - heads south to Rising Tide 2025, Kosciuszko Wild Horse Heritage Repeal Bill 2025 Passes NSW Parliament, New data reveals how Australia’s threatened reptiles and frogs are disappearing – and what we have to do, ‘Forever chemicals’ contaminate more dolphins and whales than we thought – new research, New transmission towers are crucial for renewables – but contentious. Here’s where they should go, Long-awaited environment laws might get Australia sued. Here’s why, Politics with Michelle Grattan: Murray Watt on the compromises to pass new environmental laws before Christmas, We knew Ningaloo’s coral bleaching was severe. But what we found 6 months later was still a shock, This year’s climate talks saw real progress – just not on fossil fuels, Australia’s new National Food Council: lots of industry reps, at the cost of health and environment, The fast-fix for global warming that the UN climate summit can’t ignore, Sea level doesn’t rise at the same rate everywhere – we mapped where Antarctica’s ice melt would have the biggest impact, Impacts of colonisation on dingoes are ‘written in their bones’, new research finds, Magpies in Spring, Sydney Wildlife (Sydney Metropolitan Wildlife Services) Needs People for the Rescue Line, 2025-26 Seal Reveal underway, Thomas Stephens Resv., Church Point - boardwalk + seawall works commenced, Adopt your local beach program, This Tick Season: Freeze it - don't squeeze it, Notice of 1080 Poison Baiting, Weed of the Week, Solar for apartment residents: Funding, Volunteers for Barrenjoey Lighthouse Tours needed, Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 Recycling Batteries: at Mona Vale + Avalon Beach, Reporting Dogs Offleash - Dog Attacks to Council, Plastic Bread Ties For Wheelchairs, Stay Safe From Mosquitoes, Mountain Bike Incidents On Public Land, Report fox sightings, Marine Wildlife Rescue group, 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, Community Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations in Pittwater, Ringtail Posses, Pittwater Reserves, Environment History insights + Walks, Birds, + 

Aquatics A new lens on rock fishing safety through AI camera trial: Barrenjoey to Manly high risk rock fishing declared areas map - Lifejacket required

Children Sunday Cartoons and Animations - This Issue: Teatime by Nina Podlesnyak, Tawny Frogmouths in Pittwater, Christmas Adverts 2025, Santa's mailbox is open: Kids invited to hand-deliver their wishes in-store with Australia Post, Curious Kids: why does the light turn on? + what causes the northern lights? + how will the universe end? + what is a species? + how do ripples form and why do they spread out across the water?, Stories this week: Thanksgiving rules + 'Velma Gratch and the Way Cool Butterfly' read by Kyra Sedgwick, local clubs and activities for you

Youth Tawny Frogmouths in Pittwater, Christmas Adverts 2025, Turbo appointed Captain at Manly, Bungan Boardriders Celebrates 10 Years -  Elects First Ever Female President, NASA - North Avalon Surfriders Association: End of Year Preso, Pittwater High School P & C News, More than three million Australians about to receive 20 per cent student debt cut, Avalon Bulldogs Announcement: Female Tackle Teams Kicking Off in 2026!, History in the Making: Female Tackle Coming to the Sharks in 2026!, Manly's Beauty Features in 2025 Underwater Photography Competition winners Images, Warringah Rugby Club female-friendly change facilities Opened: Caps off a HUGE Year for WRC, Montreal's Ice Surfer: Winter River Surfing Short Film, Opportunities: New cadet traineeship program launched to encourage young people to join the NSW Police Force + Backing buskers: delivering a soundtrack to Sydney’s harbour precincts + Applications Now Open for 2026 NSW Youth Parliament + Lion Island Yacht Race 2025 + Newport Pool to Peak Kicks Off Pittwater Ocean Swim Series 2026 + Street League Skateboarding Announces Return to Sydney To Kick Off 2026 World Championship Tour, Financial help for young people, School Leavers Support, Word Of The Week: Adroit, 8 ways to drink less during the silly season, The uncompromising politics of Jimmy Cliff, Tattoos may raise the risk of melanoma skin cancer – new research, From blood sugar to gut bacteria; how beans can improve your health, Anthology 4 shows there’s still more to discover about the Beatles, Australia is about to ban under-16s from social media; Here’s what kids can do right now to prepare, Two teens have launched a High Court challenge to the under-16s social media ban. Will it make a difference?, Here’s what Black Friday sales shopping does to your brain, HMS Pandora is Australia’s most scientifically excavated shipwreck – yet it still holds secrets, Writing builds resilience by changing your brain; helping you face everyday challenges, Medieval peasants enjoyed a surprising range of sick, annual and bereavement leave benefits, How we created a climate change museum to inspire hope among eco-distressed students, How a desperate lie saved a Gustav Klimt portrait from the Nazis – and helped shape its record sale price, local groups and services for you

Seniors Zali Steggall, MP for Warringah, speaks on the hardships pensioners are facing, White hair syndrome – when you’re the last customer served, Inspector-General of Aged Care finds maze-like conditions in navigating My Aged Care: Final Report, My Aged Care is Failing Older Australians: COTA, Protecting electricity consumers from bill shock, Is locating retirement villages next to hospitals the answer?, COTA urges stronger action as super funds fail to meet retirement needs, Silver Surfers: at Manly + Palm Beach, Greens chair Aged Care inquiries - cost of care + future of system, Anthology 4 shows there’s still more to discover about the Beatles, AvPals Term 4 2025, Expensive and in bad shape: how housing precarity makes life hard for older Australians, How walking football is helping older adults stay fit, connected and competitive, Mineral vs chemical sunscreens? Science shows the difference is smaller than you think, From blood sugar to gut bacteria; how beans can improve your health, Manly Warringah Choir: Dec. 7, Local groups, clubs, events and services for you 

Inbox News Australians report nearly $260M in losses as shopping scams surge: Facebook-Instagram Users targeted, ASIC proposes to remake relief for fundraising and mergers and acquisitions, Balancing consumer protections and consumer demands in the fast-moving world of payments, Venues NSW Board Appointments, Announcing the winners of first ever NSW Music Prize, Data supports urgent need to build healthy masculinities, The key academic skill you’ve probably never heard of – and 4 ways to encourage it, Some patients wait 6 years to see a public hospital specialist. Here’s how to fix this, Aircraft noise from new runways will hit thousands more homes. Australia needs fairer solutions, BreastScreen NSW expands machine reading to all women following a successful roll out, AI chatbots are encouraging conspiracy theories – new research, ADHD stimulants are being used recreationally with consequences for users, Living with PFAS ‘forever chemicals’ can be distressing. Not knowing if they’re making you sick is just the start

DIY Ideas Christmas Lights Safety Tips + Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 Black Friday Sale runs until November 30 – Perfect to Get Ready for Christmas - New Years 

The Black Friday sale at Johnson Brothers means you can look at what you need without having to leave Pittwater or chance it via all those online sales. In fact, everything you may need over the upcoming weeks can be found locally from the family that has been looking after Pittwater for over 70 years.

On Tuesday November 18 2025 Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby tabled a Community Recognition Statement in the New South Wales Parliament paying tribute to that 70 years of service to the community. 

As we head into the last week of November, when so many of us set up our Christmas lights and try and get a few jobs done before the silly season commences, we’re also looking around for something great at a brilliant price for Christmas presents. The Black Friday sale presents an opportunity to save some dollars and still give just what loved ones wanted. 

This Issue, a few tips on safely Decking Your Halls with Lights of Jolly and the Black Friday sales Catalogue - just in case you haven't had a look at what can be found in your local Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 store.

Park Bench Philosophers Employer action drives drop in gender pay gap for 2025 - Women still earning 21% less than Men + Men earn nearly $10,000 more than women in bonuses and overtime pay, fuelling the gender pay gap: new data

Pictures  SLS SNB Premiership 2025-2026 Surf Boat Series Round 2 hosted by Palm Beach SLSC: The Boaties Family Continues to Thrive under Historic Barrenjoey Headland

Food Asparagus: Spring Vegetable recipe ideas

The new Spring asparagus crops have come in and with the price now cheaper than it was a month ago, and the peak of the variety now readily available, a few insights into this Spring vegetable and a few recipe ideas to try out as sides or main course celebrations of the many ‘fruits’ of Springtime. 

Events Deep North Invites you to Dive into the First Weekend of Summer,  Christmas Markets, Summer Sailing for youngsters, Regattas, Art Exhibitions, Author Talks, Music, Markets, Social Groups + Heaps more on!

 

Spring Becomes Summer in pittwater

Tawny Frogmouth (Podargus strigoides) - nocturnal birds (night birds). During the day, they perch on tree branches, often low down, camouflaged as part of the tree. Photographed November 27 2025 in PON yard (they have been here for years - they're near the west birdbath which they'd just had a drink from - 1 of 4 birdbaths in the yard). Pic: AJG/PON

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