Community News: April 2023

April 23 - 29  2023: Issue 580

This Issue: full list in Contents page 

Front Page Issue 580 

DA Proposal For Palm Beach Fish & Chip Site Refused: Residents Relieved - But Still Calling For A Return Of Pittwater Council

From The Council Chamber April 18, 2023 by Pittwater Greens Councillor Miranda Korzy

The Luck Of The Irish – Sinead Wins Whitsunday Ocean Swim Safari At Pittwater Ocean Swim Series

Aquatics: Montevideo Maru Found: Descendants Of Those Lost In World War Two Tragedy May Now Commence The Healing 

Pictures: Avalon JRLFC Kicks Off An A Grade Season 'For The Community'

Park Bench Philosophers Scientists Discover Pristine Deep-Sea Coral Reefs In The Galápagos Marine Reserve

DIY Ideas It's starting to get Cold: 11 Ways to keep your home warm, safe and save money this Autumn and Winter - what to look for in a heater; the list! 

Council Proposal To Install Soft-Fall Rubber + Synthetic Grass At Dee Why Beach Playground For Very Young Children - have your say

Survey For Feedback On Avalon Beach Shared Space Opens As Six Month Trial Begins - Closes Four Months Prior To Trial End - have your say by the end of May

North Narrabeen Surf Life Saving Club: Proposed Alterations and Extensions - feedback closes April 30

Environment  Protect Mona Vale's Bongin Bongin Bay - Establish An Aquatic Reserve, Deep Creek Reserve, Sulphur Crested Cockatoo Fledglings Update, A forgotten and neglected ecosystem covers a third of Earth’s coastlines with a collective value of $500 billion, Swamp Wallaby At Palm Beach, Clean Up Crew: Avalon Beach April 30, Permaculture - Upcoming Events, Report Fox Sightings, Weed Of The Season: Cassia - Please Pull Out and Save Our Bush, Antarctica’s heart of ice has skipped a beat; Time to take our medicine, Whale-watching guidelines don’t include boat noise; It’s time they did, Victoria’s plans for engineered wetlands on the Murray are environmentally dubious; Here’s a better option, Floods of nutrients from fertilisers and wastewater trash our rivers; Could offsetting help?, Plastic action or distraction?; As climate change bears down, calls to reduce plastic pollution are not wasted, We need a National Energy Transition Authority to help fossil fuel workers adjust, El Niño is coming and ocean temps are already at record highs – that can spell disaster for fish and corals, Poorer countries must be compensated for climate damage; but how exactly do we crunch the numbers?, A dive into the deep past reveals Indigenous burning helped suppress bushfires 10,000 years ago, The Surprising Science Behind Long-Distance Bird Migration, Coastal Species Persist On High Seas On Floating Plastic Debris, New Approach Estimates Long-Term Coastal Cliff Loss, Methane From Megafires: More Spew Than We Knew, We found out when the Nullarbor Plain dried out; splitting Australia’s ecosystems in half, Pittwater Environment groups and organisations, Bushcare, Reserves: Histories + Notes + Pictorial Walks, Where to Recycle plastic tags

Inbox News Research Sheds New Light On Self-Destructive Behaviour, Turning down the volume of pain – how to retrain your brain when you get sensitised, Pregnant this winter?; Here’s how to prepare for COVID and get vaccinated, Autism and ADHD assessment waits are up to 2 years’ long; What can families do in the meantime?, When did you have your last tetanus vaccine?; A booster dose may save your life, New Genetic Target For Male Contraception Identified, Time Out: We All Need A Three-Day Weekend, How Electricity Can Heal Wounds Three Times As Fast, Bank Branch Closures Spark Senate Inquiry and Regulator Review: have your say, COTA NSW April Webinar: Older Drivers, Volunteers In Aged Care Consultation Open, Research Reveals Older Australians’ Mental Health Hit Hard By Pandemic, AvPals Term 2 At Newport, Aged Care Worker Shortage — The Solution Is Simple: National Seniors, u3a At Newport Community Centre: Coming Up, How Music Can Prevent Cognitive Decline, Professor Brendan Murphy AC Retirement,  Loosely Woven concert in Avalon: April 30, People Who Think Positively About Aging Are More Likely To Recover Memory, The Men's Table meeting: Pittwater RSL May 30, Mitochondria Power-Supply Failure May Cause Age-Related Cognitive Impairment, Avalon Scottish Country Dancing, Research on 2,400 languages shows nearly half the world’s language diversity is at risk, Sonnet 29, When The War Came To Cowra, Council's Youth Voice Action Plan 2028 Gets The Green Light, Word Of The Week: Construct, Narrabeen Education Campus:  School Holiday Works Notification, Shakespeare by numbers: how mathematical breakthroughs influenced the Bard’s plays, Shakespeare’s First Folio turns 400: what would be lost without the collection? An expert speculates, The latest trends in video games from the 2023 global Game Developers Conference, Why arts degrees and other generalist programs are the future of Australian higher education, Unpapering the cracks: sugar, slavery and the Sydney Morning Herald, Why do people crave the approval of an abusive or narcissistic parent and what can they do about it?, From radical to reactionary: the achievements and legacy of the influential artist John Olsen, The first Asian screenwriter in Hollywood’s 1920s ‘dream factory,’ Winnifred Eaton, challenged its racism, Will AI ever reach human-level intelligence?; We asked 5 experts, From platypus to parsecs and milliCrab: why do astronomers use such weird units?

Profile of the Week Doug Ferris
The 2022/23 NSW beach volunteer patrol season started on Saturday 24 September 2022 and finishes on Tuesday 25 April 2023 (ANZAC Day). Our beaches and the volunteer surf club patrol members who look after others on the water and sand remain a place where 'democracy on the sand' occurs and you may mix with people of all ages and from many different backgrounds. Your local surf life saving club is a wonderful place to learn about and contribute to your community along with meeting people you will get to watch grow up if they are Nippers or Cadets and Freshers, and grow older with, if they are adults.

The gentleman who led out the 2023 carnival named for a founding member of Palm Beach SLSC and the 'father of Surf Life Saving', the Adrian Curlewis Masters Twilight Carnival, was Doug Ferris.

Doug commenced the carnival with the honorary ‘icebreaker’ swim, taking the stead of Ian Curlewis, Adrian’s son, who had done so for every year of the carnival until now. Ian passed away recently, and is much missed during Summer at Palm Beach. 

Doug, who knew him well, said, ’’I’m honoured to lead out the swim at this special carnival. Ian was a lovely chap and we’ll be thinking of him as we take part in this event today.’’

Doug Ferris has just completed 64 years as part of surf life saving and Palm Beach SLSC and looks forward to his 65th year as part of this surf club. In fact, being a part of this club features amongst Doug’s favourite memories – and now that has extended into a third generation of water-loving family members, with his children also serving the community on the beach during Patrol Season. 

As the flags are lowered over the 2022-2023 NSW Season a few insights from a gentleman who has been a rugby player, a car racer and fulfilled a lifetime of making some of Australia's best high quality shoes as the son of  Michael Farres of Meschell Faris Shoes, but who states his lovely family and his days on the beach at the Barrenjoey end of Pittwater are what is best about his life.

Pittwater RSL Sub-Branch will host its 2023 Anzac Day Dawn Service this coming Tuesday April 25th. President of the Sub-Branch Deborah Carter advises the Dawn Marchers will assemble at the lower cenotaph at 5.20am. 

Pittwater Sub-Branch Member, Sub Lieutenant Zamri Burns will present the 2023 ANZAC Address at Pittwater RSL. Sub-Lieutenant Zamri is a New Zealand born naval officer with a proud Australian indigenous heritage. He has multiple operational deployments to his name; both seagoing and land based.

This year's Pittwater RSL Commemorative Service will acknowledge the 50th Anniversary of the end of Australia’s involvement in Vietnam in particular, Long Tan Day; August 18th 1963. There are several Australian Vietnam Veterans in Pittwater RSL Sub-Branch, as well as two American Vets. Another important event happening on May 14th 2023 is the 80th Anniversary of the sinking of the hospital ship, Centaur. There were 332 people on board this ship. The ship had a Red Cross clearly visible on its stern and was torpedoed by a Japanese Submarine I-177. There were only 64 survivors, one being Army Nurse Sister Eileen Savage who lost 11 of her nursing colleagues.

President Carter states a Commemorative Service will be held at the Robert Dunn Reserve at Mona Vale Headland (southern end) on May 14th 2023 at 3:00pm. The significance of this location is that last October a Lost At Sea Memorial, was consecrated in honour of the POW’s, Nurses and Civilian Internees who lost their lives in the South Pacific ocean at the hands of the Japanese. 

Kylie Adams-Collier, an award-winning vocalist whose Grandfather lost his life on the ship Montevideo Maru (1942) will sing “Montevideo Maru 1942” as part of the Pittwater RSL Sub-Branch 2023 Anzac Day Service. On Saturday April 22nd, 2023 news broke that this ship has been found in the South China Sea. Stated by many to be Australia's worst maritime disaster, a US submarine torpedoed the ship unaware that it was packed with prisoners captured in Papua New Guinea. The Montevideo Maru sank in July 1942. An estimated 979 Australians died, along with 33 Norwegian sailors and 20 Japanese guards and crew.

Mona Vale south headland's Lost At Sea Memorial will serve as a poignant reminder of this on Tuesday, doubly so when you realise the gentleman behind it, former Pittwater RSL president Wal Williams OAM, worked with now retired Pittwater MP Rob Stokes to have the memorial placed on the opposite headland to where commemorates the Japanese submariners grave site off Bungan beach. 

Mr Williams was among the tens of thousands of Allied soldiers, nurses and civilians taken prisoner by the Japanese after the Fall of Singapore. Wal was interned at the notorious Changi prison camp before working along the infamous Burma-Thailand Railway. While Mr Williams was being transported to Japan in 1944, onboard the Rakuyō Maru, an American submarine fired a torpedo at the Japanese prison ship, unaware of the Allied prisoners onboard. After treading water for 24 hours and surviving overhead aerial attack, Mr Williams was among a small number of survivors pulled from the water and transported to labour camps in Japan. Mr Williams later survived the Allied firebombings of Tokyo and Yokohama, before finally returning home to Australia in October 1945 – on his 23rd birthday.

Mona Vale's and Bungan Beach headlands, and throughout Mona Vale and to Bayview feature as the second Anzac Day precursor for 2023 - this time focused on what was placed in and on the landscape of this area, as requested by reader Malcolm Tompson in May 2021, as defence works - the tank traps, and particularly the 'Bungan Bridge' across on of these deep wide ditches to safeguard the rest of Sydney against an invasion by Japanese forces. 

The first is available in: Avalon Beach Norfolk Pines: To Honour Those Who Served – Anzac Day 2023 History Precursors. Rear Admiral Rachel Durbin, CSC, RAN, will give the 11am 2023 Anzac Address at the Avalon Beach RSL Sub-Branch Commemorative Service. The full list of Anzac Day Commemorative Services in Pittwater runs in the Community News page this week.

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: April 1, 2023

Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Contents April 1st 2023 Issue: Cleaning Up Pittwater, Island Race: The Results, Two Catherines: A Twisted Scotland Island Tale, Easter Egg Hunt, International Folk Dancing, The Tuesday Discussion Group, Scotland Island Fire Shed Dinner, Scotland Island Café, Newcomers' Welcome, Anzac Day Memorial Service, Feast for Freedom, Seafarers' Shindig, Scotland Island Revive Retreat, Winter Market Day

Anzac Day In Pittwater: 2023 Services

Narrabeen RSL Sub-Branch
Sunday April 23: 11am
Muster at Narrabeen SLSC opposite Furlough House on Ocean streets, March to Cenotaph will commence at 11:30am. March will be led by the Warringah Pipe Band. Commemorative Service and wreath laying will take place at Narrabeen Cenotaph, corner of Ocean and Pittwater roads.

Pittwater RSL, Mona Vale
Anzac Day Dawn Service at 5:30 am at lower cenotaph. Please be seated 10 minutes prior to commencement. 
In the event of rain the Service will take place in the undercover car park of the RSL Club. 
2023 Anzac Address will be given by Pittwater Sub-Branch Member, Sub Lieutenant Zamri Burns
Breakfast within the club afterwards.

Church Point
Anzac Day Memorial Service Tuesday, 25 April, 10.45 am Thomas Stephens Reserve
Our traditional ANZAC Day service will be held at Thomas Stephens Reserve, Church Point on Tuesday, 25 April, commencing 10.45 am. The guest speaker will be announced shortly.  

Newport
5.30 am Anzac Day  Dawn Service at Newport Cenotaph in Trafalgar Park
All Welcome.

Bilgola Beach
8.30am: Bilgola Surf Life Saving Club
All families are invited to come down to Bilgola Beach from 8:30am for this year’s Anzac Day Surf Lifesaving Memorial service and March Past, a time honoured tradition of the SLS movement. Anzac Day also marks the end of the 2022/23 volunteer patrolling season.

Avalon Beach RSL Cenotaph
5.30am: Anzac Day Dawn Service - breakfast within club afterwards
11:00am March and Service. Please muster outside the Avalon Public School on Old Barrenjoey Road at 10.30 am for a 10:45 am start.
2023 Anzac Day Address will be given by Rear Admiral Rachel Durbin CSC RAN

Whale Beach Dawn Service: Anzac Day
Anzac Day Tuesday, 25 April 2023 06:00-07:00
by Palm Beach RSL Veterans Ocean Therapy
ANZAC Dawn Service at Whale Beach, breakfast at the Whale Beach Surf Club deck will be available immediately afterward.

Palm Beach RSL: Anzac Day 2023
Anzac Day 11am Service - Muster at northernmost corner of Iluka and Barrenjoey Roads at 10:45 am for March to outside the club for an 11am Commemorative Service at the Palm Beach RSL Cenotaph.
Service Members Luncheon afterwards. 2-up starts at 1pm.


Narrabeen Education Campus:  School Holiday Works Notification  

April 2023 - Notice by NSW Department of Education – School Infrastructure
We are upgrading Narrabeen North Public School and Narrabeen Sports High School with new and improved education facilities to support the student community.

Temporary school buildings
To accommodate upcoming works to Narrabeen North Primary School, 4 temporary school buildings will be installed next to the Narrabeen Sports High School playing field (see map below).
New decking and perimeter fencing will also be installed in the area for the safety and wellbeing of our students and teachers.

These works will start on Wednesday 5 April and will be completed by Saturday 22 April 2023.


Vehicle movements
The above works will involve large vehicle movements, including a mobile crane and trucks. Traffic control will be in place for the safety of motorists and the local community. Access will be maintained to all residential properties at all time.

Work hours
Working hours will be 7am to 6pm Monday to Friday, and 8am to 12pm Saturday. There will be no work on Sundays or Public Holidays unless otherwise notified.

The health, safety, and wellbeing of the school and the local community are our highest priority, and we will continue to keep the community updated.

Thank you for your patience as we deliver this important project for the Narrabeen community.

Contact us
If you have any questions about this project you can contact School Infrastructure NSW on email at schoolinfrastructure@det.nsw.edu.au or during business hours on 1300 482 651.

March 2023 Update: Project overview
A project is underway to upgrade Narrabeen North Public School and Narrabeen Sports High School with new and improved education facilities to support the student community.

At Narrabeen North Public School, the project will provide:
  • ▪ new flexible permanent learning spaces
  • ▪ upgraded learning spaces
  • ▪ new supported learning spaces
  • ▪ upgrades to core facilities, including the library, administration and hall.
At Narrabeen Sports High School, the project will provide:


Artist Impression of new works at Narrabeen Sports High School.  Image: SINSW


Narrabeen Sports High School Site Plan.  Image: SINSW

Edible Exhibition: 100 Cakes For 100 Years Of Manly CWA - Get Involved!

Would you like to help Manly CWA celebrate their centenary? We invite everyone to be involved in our Edible Exhibition.

On Saturday 26th August we are holding our Edible Exhibition at St Matthew’s Manly. It will be a celebration of Manly Branch of the Country Women’s Association throughout the last 100 years with an exhibition and sale of 100 different tea cosies and 100 aprons. The focus will be the 100 cakes – each representing a different year and an event in the history of our area, state or the world.

The Edible Exhibition is a celebration of 100 years of community support by Manly Branch of the Country Women's Association. You are invited to nominate yourself to create a cake. Once you are registered you will then be given a year and information of things that might be represented for that year. Think: 2000 - Sydney Olympics - make 5 ring cakes and decorate to look like the Olympic rings; 1966 - Decimal currency - create a cake that is a coin or a note from the new currency.

You are welcome to knit, crochet, or sew a tea cosy or make an apron to donate to our exhibition. Contact manlycwa@gmail.com if you have any questions.

For the centenary of cakes, you are requested to register online to participate and in early July you will be given a year to create in a baked form.  

To assist in your creative decisions a list of things that happened in the year you are given. Cake will be delivered on the morning of 26th August and displayed along with the aprons and tea cosies which will be available for sale to raise funds to assist women and families throughout New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory. 



Council's Youth Voice Action Plan 2028 Gets The Green Light

Wednesday, 19 April 2023
Council has adopted a new action plan co-designed with young people to improve youth wellbeing, build social cohesion and increase youth participation in community life.

The Youth Voice Action Plan 2028 – Shaping the Beaches’ Future sets a roadmap for young people on the Beaches, addressing social, cultural and economic issues across four focus areas. These range from social issues like ‘connection’ and ‘equity’, to the more pressing challenges of affordable housing and employment.

As a first step Council will be developing a monitoring an evaluation plan that ensures young people are continually involved in the implementation and delivery of the Plan.

This responds to one of the most frequently requested and mentioned themes throughout the exhibition period.

A key priority will be ensuring our processes and programs support the outcomes identified in the Plan by the large and diverse group of young people living on the Beaches.

Another focus will be on capacity building and skills development, particularly relating to life skills, financial literacy and soft skills, alongside more formal education and career/employment assistance and pathways. 

Northern Beaches Council Interim CEO Louise Kerr said the plan was drafted following an extensive consultation with more than 1,000 young people contributing over 1,100 comments.

“Some of the key themes to emerge from our discussions with young people were inclusion and diversity, mental health and cost of living pressures” Ms Kerr said.

“There was also strong interest from the community for greater intergenerational connection through mentoring, traineeships and skills development.

“Young people also told us that information about critical services for mental health and financial assistance should be easier to access.”

The plan maps out a series of positive actions for youth development and capacity building, which includes plans for up-skilling young people and ensuring their voices are heard.

The draft plan received 191 responses while on public exhibition and that feedback has informed the final action plan.

“Young people are active contributors and essential to a thriving and vibrant community,” Ms Kerr said.

“They are our current and future leaders, innovators, creatives, and environmental caretakers. We’ve walked alongside them throughout this project and with their help, created a plan that supports them in the ways that they need and want.”

For more information about the Youth Voice Action Plan 2028 - Shaping the Beaches' Future visit the Your Say webpage on same and read the Council Agenda for April 18 2023 report and the Attachment Booklet (Item 10.2, page 400) containing the community engagement report and the amended plan.

Careel Creek Improvements Funded

Council is pleased to share the news that it’s been successful in receiving approximately $25,000 from the State Government to fund improvements to the riparian vegetation condition of Careel Creek in North Avalon. Council is also committing funds to the project which will see almost $50,000 invested into the project in partnership with the NSW Department of Planning and Environment - Crown Lands as part of its Crown Reserves Improvement Fund. Careel Creek provides a green corridor and pedestrian way located between North Avalon and the suburb centre, and so engages users with the waterway and natural environment. 

In 2020, public concern about the condition of Careel Creek led Council to undertake sediment and weed removal works to improve its overall condition, including in sections identified as Crown Land with the support of Crown funding. Following the sediment and weed removal, bush regeneration works to improve the native vegetation condition continued.

To support Council works on Crown Land, Council successfully sought matching financial support from the Crown resulting in $24,545 being awarded for the period March 2023 until January 2024.

Careel Creek is exposed to nutrients, sediment and weed propagules captured by the Avalon stormwater system, and these collectively promote aggressive growth of non-native plant species. The vegetation management strategy for the site acknowledges these issues, so bush regeneration efforts will focus on bringing exotic vines under control with a view to eliminate them, plant and nurture canopy tree species, and promote grassy ground cover where weed removal is unproductive and time consuming.

Council works will continue beyond the end date of the grant funding, and further grant funding opportunities will be pursued if or when available.


In Tune With Tony B

In Tune is a radio programme about our local community, culture and home-grown music, hosted by TonyB. Each week, Tony plays great local music and he chats with guests from local community causes and charities, about how they make a difference.

In this week's programme Tony chatted with Craig Stevens from Community Northern Beaches, supporting vulnerable and at-risk people with a range of services for domestic & family violence, homelessness, refugees and families, youth and children. Here is a direct link to the programme one demand  InTuneWithTonyB and CNB

Next week, on Friday 28th April 2023 at 6pm, Tony chats with Stephen Wells from Radio Northern Beaches (a radio show about a radio show and the ins and outs of community radio).

The programme will also feature a great line up of predominantly home-grown music.
 
Radio Northern Beaches
Fridays at 6pm
FM 88.7 or 90.3
Or live stream at https://www.rnb.org.au
Previous programmes, on demand at https://www.mixcloud.com/InTuneWithTonyB
If you would like to chat with Tony on air about your community cause or your music, please feel free to message the Facebook page  In Tune - Radio Programme | Facebook and feel free to like and share the page.

Monika's Doggie Rescue: Pets Of The Week

Blueberry 


2yo American Staffy X
Blueberry is a very calm attentive girl. She is affectionate with people and does not mind other dogs. She walks well on loose lead. Our trainer says: "A lovely gentle dog who loves kids and people in general. She is very sweet and will snuggle up with kids. She takes treats very gently. Beautiful!!!!" She came from the pound with a low grade mast cell tumour and was going to be put down. We have had this excised with wide margins so should not re-occur.  She has a smooth coat and weighs 24.6kg. She suits a family with house and garden and copes with PT hours unattended. All our dogs come desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DoggieRescue Vet. Her adoption fee is $450. 


Happy


8yo Chihuahua X Corgi
Happy is the friendliest happy Chihuahua X you could imagine. He so enjoys pats and cuddles and loves being picked up. He is social with other small dogs. Happy came from the pound with a very sore mouth with ulcers and rotten teeth, and despite this he was still wagging his tail and being friendly! What a stoic little boy. He came in weighing 5.2kg but has slimmed to 4.5kg so far. He has grade 3 luxating patellas. He has a short coat. All our dogs come desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DoggieRescue Vet. His adoption fee is $600. 

To find out more call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email  Monika@DoggieRescue.com.  RON R251000024

Call For Artists: Council's Street Art

Council is currently looking for four new public artworks to add to its growing collection of Street Art. The four sites are:
  1. North Curl Curl Community Centre
  2. Mona Vale Memorial Hall
  3. Mona Vale Village Park
  4. Peninsula Carpark, Rialto Square Manly

The program is a chance to bring artists, residents, businesses, property owners and the community together to create quality new artworks in unexpected places in our town and village centres. As part of its Street Art program, Council has previously commissioned artists including, David Cragg, Otis Hope Carey, Elliott Routledge, Claire Foxton, Kentaro Yoshida, Bradley Eastman, Brentos, Helen Proctor and Studio Dennis.

This project is made possible thanks to a Graffiti Management Grant from the NSW Department of Communities and Justice.


Bank Branch Closures Spark Senate Inquiry And Regulator Review

April 20, 2023
Banks are being asked to justify the impact on communities when they close branches.
Australia’s banks are under increasing pressure to justify their performance across a range of services following policy decisions affecting their everyday customers.

These include mortgage rate rises, not passing on interest rate rises to all depositors (the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission is now investigating this), and the closure of bank branches and outlets across the nation.

More than 80 branches have closed since September 2022, and the financial services watchdog, APRA, reports that between June 2017 and June 2022, 30% of bank branches closed across cities and regional and remote communities. There has been a consistent percentage drop across all states and territories.

The number of ATMs in major cities and regional areas has more than halved to 4,329 and EFTPOS terminals dropped from 800,000 to 700,000.
Parliamentary inquiry

Community response to this has led to the establishment of a Senate inquiry into bank branch closures in regional areas – specifically the reasons for the closures and the impact on customers and communities.

Older people and those living in regional communities, including small business operators, have been particularly affected by branch closures given the often-poor state of online technology and the big travel distances to the nearest town with an operational bank branch.

Some banks have responded to public opinion and the inquiry by pausing the spate of closures but continue to explain the strategy as a necessary business response as more customers favour online banking.

Australian Banking Association chief executive Anna Bligh said: “I’m not surprised that, for some people, it’s a pretty big and quite difficult change to adjust to.”

However, she said foot traffic inside bank branches had declined by almost 70% in recent years.

Ms Bligh said banks were taking resources out of “bricks and mortar” and funnelling them into digital services, because that’s what customers were using.

APRA review
The ability of the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) to accurately measure the state of the banking sector, including closures, has been questioned, forcing it to review its processes and role in providing transparency into the financial sector.

As part of APRA’s regulation of the financial sector it measures how many physical banking outlets there are, notes their locations, and counts ATMs and EFTPOS machines. In part, APRA’s review of its own information-gathering has been forced by the growth of banking apps, which currently fall outside its scope.

Now APRA is asking stakeholders, including bank consumer groups, what other services should be included.

A discussion paper with information about APRA’s consultation, including how to make a submission, is available hereWritten submissions should be sent to APRA by Friday, 23 June 2023.

Subject to interest, APRA also proposes to host online forums to hear from local communities about how the Points of Presence data collection can be improved. Local governments or other community groups who wish to participate can email APRA at: pointsofpresence@apra.gov.au.  

Scam Alert: Telstra Impersonation Emails

From ACMA
Have you received an unexpected email from Telstra asking you to complete a form to avoid disruption or cancellation of your service? Be wary – it may be a scam!

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is aware of an emerging email scam that uses Telstra’s branding and advises recipients to complete a KYC (Know Your Customer) compliance form. The email falsely advises that this is required due to a new ACMA policy.

If you’ve received this email do not download or open the attachment or any links in the message.

If you are in any doubt about whether an email you have received from Telstra is genuine, contact Telstra via its publicly available contact details or verified app.

Telstra has more information about how to identify a legitimate email on their website: www.telstra.com.au/cyber-security-and-safety/active-scams

If you believe you are victim of a cybercrime, go to ReportCyber at cyber.gov.au: www.cyber.gov.au/acsc/report

Scammers target everyone. Learn more about how to protect yourself from phone scams on the ACMA website and make a report to Scamwatch


Finding Help To Pay Your Bills

For many it’s getting to the stage where you feel sick to your stomach walking to your letterbox or opening your email. You know there’s going to be yet another bill in there costing you more money that you don’t have. The bills are relentless.  

Take a deep breath. You have some options.  

At the end of the day, the biller just wants to be paid
When facing the constant, never-ending deluge of bills that we all receive, it is very easy to forget the fundamental truth: the biller just wants to be paid. Yes, they want to be paid their money in a timely manner, but as they consolidate their own debts, it is in their interest that you pay your money at a later point than not at all. 

As a person struggling to stay on top of your bills, it is always worth keeping this in mind. As long as a company wants to see its debt paid, there will always be a pathway forward.  

To encourage people to pay their bills on time, it is becoming increasingly common for bills to offer an ‘on-time’ discount. Pay your bills by the due date and you’ll pay less.  

On-time discounts are a strong incentive for many. But, for those struggling to find the money to pay those bills it makes little to no difference. 

Many government agencies and utility companies will offer the ability to apply for a bill extension or instalment plan to pay off a bill. If you know times are tough right now, but that you will have access to more money at a future date, then this can be a good way to defer your debts for a limited time period. You can usually find details about such deferral schemes on the back of the bill you receive or on the website of the biller. 

Different types of bills deliver different relief solutions
For many organisations when they talk about offering relief to people with difficulty meeting bill obligations, they will refer to their relief solutions. Quite often what they are talking about here is putting customers onto an instalment plan to pay off their bill. 

Bill payment relief can take multiple forms. For example, many Queensland local councils can refer citizens to the Independent Rates Relief Tribunal which can provide assistance to people having difficulty meeting basic living expenses. To be eligible for assistance like this, the applicants must reside at the residence where the rates are due and own just the one property, among several restrictions. 

Some companies are better about the level of support they offer than others. An example of a company that offers a really good service to its customers facing financial hardship is energy provider AGL. Ultimately, it is still a company which is doing what it can to see bills paid, but it goes the extra step with advice and options to try to keep ahead of debt. 

It offers the ‘Staying Connected’ program, where consultants assist customers with: 

Tailored plans that match the customer’s situation to put them on a payment plan. 
Advice on payment options, government assistance, and available concessions. 
Connecting customers with free and independent financial counselling and support services. 
Advice on energy efficiency to bring bill prices down. 

Real help you can use
Deferring payments or entering instalment plans is not a long-term solution. After all, it may fix the problem of the current bill, but next month or quarter, another bill will land in your letterbox. While deferring your immediate debts, you need to find a solution that can help you meet your bill obligations into the future. 

The best thing you can do is to call the government-run National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007. It runs Mon-Fri 9:30am - 4:30pm. They will help you with general financial suggestions, but also advise on consumer rights and other related issues. Indigenous Australians might prefer to call the similar Mob Strong Debt Helpline on 1800 808 488.  

You may also be able to access further assistance through charities and other community organisations who offer emergency relief services like: 
  • Food vouchers / supplies. 
  • Assistance with utility bills.
  • Clothing and furniture.
Don't let your health be impacted
Anyone who tries telling you that money doesn’t buy happiness is someone who hasn’t felt the mental stress of a debt spiral.  

People having trouble paying their bills can find that they: 
  • Are constantly stressed and irritable. 
  • Have difficulty sleeping. 
  • Find solace in substance abuse like alcohol and drugs.
  • Cease spending money on healthcare (therapies, medication, and other treatments) to try to pay off debt.
  • Overspend (often using credit cards) to feel better about the stress that they feel. 
Just as you can get free help to combat your debt, there are several services available to help you with your mental health. Beyond Blue is the largest and most well-known organisation that can help with mental health. You can talk to counsellors via their website www.beyondblue.org.au or over the phone 1300 22 4636.  

There are also other services that can help. If you are still in employment, many businesses offer their staff free access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAP). There are also specialised services like MensLine Australia that are focused on assisting with men’s mental health issues. 

Disclaimer
All insights and information provided should be considered general advice for educational purposes only. As we are unaware of your personal circumstances, the information in this article should not be misconstrued as personalised financial advice. We recommend seeking advice from a qualified financial professional before making any major financial decisions. 

Volunteers Needed: Red Cross Avalon Shop

Please talk to the people in the shop or telelphone if you can help out each week, for around 4 hours.
Address: Shop 4 & 5 / 48 Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon 2107 NSW; Phone: 02 9918 0952

Volunteers Needed: Meals On Wheels

Meals on Wheels have lost a lot of volunteers in the last few months due to COVID regulations etc. so they are desperate for some new people on the roster. The local service covers all the way from Manly Vale up to Palm Beach, so a run takes around 60-90mins. 

You leave from and return to the warehouse in Bassett Street, Mona Vale.
You don’t need to sign on to permanent shifts, even once a month would help them out greatly.
All drivers need an unrestricted license, must be fully vaccinated and will require a volunteer police check.
If you are able to assist please call Milly on 9457 3900 or email 
NBeachesVolunteer@kmow.org.au and she can give you more info and send you through training paperwork.


Report Hate Crimes

NSW Police Force: 
If you are subjected to hate on social media or online you should keep evidence by taking screen shots of the abuse including usernames, URLs and any other relevant information. 

You can report the abuse directly to the platform and report in person at any Police Station. 

If you witness a hate incident or hate crime but are not the victim, you can still make a report to the NSW Police.

In an Emergency call Triple Zero (000). If not urgent, you can report online at crimestoppers.com.au or call 1800 333 000 or report in person at any Police Station. 

JP Public Register

You can find a Justice of the Peace (JP) using the online Public Register. You can search by postcode, name of a JP, day of availability, language spoken and JP registration number. The register lists a JP’s location, availability and telephone number. Please note that JPs are volunteers and may not be available at all times. Click here to access the JP Public Register
NB: There are  3 J.P’s working in Pittwater RSL Sub-Branch office, we work every Monday (10:30am to 15:30)except on public holidays:
  1. Terry Jones J.P.
  2. Robert (Bob) Wood J.P.
  3. Deborah Hendy(Carter) J.P

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Needs Volunteers

The Auxiliary is looking for new members to help with our fund raising efforts.  New ideas and assistance with our stalls are very welcome.  Contact 0407 216 253 for more information.

The Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary members host a stall at Pittwater Place on the first Saturday of every month from 9am to 3pm selling knitting for babies and children, beanies, bedsocks and scarves for oldies, sewing items, craft and jams, raising funds for the rehabilitation and palliative care units.

Fire And Rescue NSW Warns Public To Safeguard Homes From Lithium-Ion Battery Risks: Balgowlah

April 18, 2023
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) investigators, examining the scene of Sydney’s latest Lithium-Ion battery fire, are urging the public to safely store and charge the cells, outside the home if possible.

Just after 9am on Friday 14 April, an e-bike battery, on charge in the loungeroom of a duplex in Sydney Road, Balgowlah, began to suddenly overheat in a process known as “Thermal Runaway.”



A family of four inside the home heard a ‘popping’ noise as the battery began disintegrating and they threw water on the cell, but it re-ignited and exploded moments later, sending burning debris almost three metres across the room.

The family escaped the home unharmed as firefighters arrived and placed the damaged battery in a bucket of water to prevent further re-ignition.

FRNSW Fire Investigation and Research Unit Inspector Chris Hughes inspected the scene and numerous impact points on the loungeroom walls and ceiling.

“When Lithium-Ion batteries go into Thermal Runaway and explode fiercely like this, the debris has potential to start numerous fires in the home,” Inspector Hughes said.

“Lithium-Ion batteries are particularly difficult to extinguish as they often re-ignite, causing further risk.

“In this case, the battery and charger were compatible.

“We’re urging the public to charge and store Lithium-Ion batteries outside the home where possible so if they do overheat and explode, the chances of harm are reduced and there’s less risk of homes burning down.

“Where it’s not practicable, charge lithium-ion batteries on a non-combustible surface and not in an entry/exit pathway, ensure your batteries and devices are in good condition and are compatible.

“Stick to reputable brands and ensure your home has a working smoke alarm and a fire escape plan, especially as we head into winter.”




Photos: FRNSW
For more please visit:

Double Demerits Period: Anzac Day 2023

  • Anzac Day: 21 April to 25 April 2023* 
*On Monday 24 April 2023, school zones will be in operation. Drivers are reminded additional penalties can apply for certain offences committed in school zones.

Double demerit periods typically fall during holiday periods or over long weekends. They run from midnight on the start date to midnight on the finish date and are enforced by police. 

The next double demerit period will in April is for the ANZAC Day public holiday. ANZAC Day falls on Tuesday, 25 April and double demerits will be in place over the weekend leading up to ANZAC Day from Friday, 21 April though to the end of Tuesday, 25 April. 

The demerit point system provides an incentive for drivers to improve their driving behaviour, obey road rules and comply with NSW traffic laws. The double demerit point scheme applies for the following types of offences:
  • Speeding
  • Illegal use of mobile phones
  • Not wearing a seatbelt
  • Riding without a helmet
According to the RMS website, any active demerits points you've accrued will remain on your record for a total of 3 years and 4 months.


NSW To Transition Away From COVID PCR Testing

April 19, 2023
NSW will transition to a pathology referral model for COVID-19 PCR testing, in line with changes already in place across all other Australian states and territories.

Minister for Health Ryan Park said it is the right time to move away from the current testing arrangements , which will end on 13 May 2023.

“I want to thank all of the healthcare staff who have worked tirelessly in testing clinics across the state to help keep the community safe during the pandemic.” Mr Park said.

“However, since January we’ve seen a significant reduction in demand for PCR testing driven by changes in health recommendations, testing behaviour and increased access to rapid antigen tests (RATs).”

“Over the next few weeks, we will be transitioning to a new model of COVID testing to support the current and future needs of the community.”

Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant said for the majority of the population, RATs are the most convenient and appropriate test. PCR testing is important for those most at risk of severe COVID and as recommend by treating clinicians.

“PCR testing requested by a medical or nurse practitioner will continue to be available at private pathology services with a referral form,” Dr Chant said.

“This will ensure effective, fast diagnosis so those who are most at risk are able to get timely access to antiviral therapies.”

NSW continues to provide free access to RATs. This includes distribution of RATs through health settings, non-government organisations, local councils, and Service NSW centres.

NSW Health works with stakeholders to ensure priority access to free RATs for groups in most need, including Aboriginal communities, the aged care and disability sectors, CALD communities, and rural and remote populations.


NSW Government Acts To Fix Cemeteries Mess

April 19, 2023
The NSW Government has begun addressing the serious challenges around cemeteries and crematoria policy inherited from the previous government. 

As a first step, the Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper announced a nationwide search to conduct an open recruitment process for a shared Administrator for 4 of Sydney’s Crown cemetery operators, collectively known as OneCrown. 

The future of these 4 cemetery operators – Northern Metropolitan Cemeteries, Rookwood General Cemeteries, Rookwood Necropolis and Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries – has been in limbo for years due to the failure of the former government to decide their future. 

Executive recruitment firm Meritos will undertake the open recruitment process for the administrator. 

“We’re looking for someone with commercial acumen and solid experience in people leadership, governance, financial and risk management to help us take the sector forward,” Mr Kamper said. 

“In a return to more normal government practices, the role will be advertised nationally so the market can be properly tested and the best available candidate identified. The current administrator has been invited to apply.” 

“For 2 years this process has been marred by procrastination and infighting, while the supply of available grave sites dwindled to alarming levels.” 

“I’m determined to provide a fresh start for our cemetery sector and to reassure the people of Sydney they will continue to have access to quality burial services,” Mr Kamper said. 

Mr Kamper said he will move swiftly to provide direction and certainty to the cemeteries and crematoria sector by: 
  • Publicly releasing the independent report into OneCrown. This report, prepared by O’Connor Marsden and Associates, is being finalised now for the minister’s review. 
  • Completing an audit into the supply of cemetery space in Sydney. 
Deciding on the amalgamation of the OneCrown operators to ensure they have a transparent and clear roadmap for the future, and moving towards a 2 public operator model for cemeteries in NSW. 

NSW Reconstruction Authority Regulation: Have Your Say

The NSW Reconstruction Authority is inviting public submissions on the Regulatory Impact Statement for the NSW Reconstruction Authority Regulation 2023. The regulation commenced on 3 February 2023 with special certification from the Premier under section 6(1)(b) of the Subordinate Legislation Act 1989.

The objects of the regulation are:
  • to prescribe actions in relation to which the NSW Reconstruction Authority may direct relevant entities
  • to require relevant entities and the NSW Reconstruction Authority to have regard to the State disaster mitigation plan and any relevant disaster adaptation plan in exercising prescribed functions
  • to prescribe exceptional circumstances in which the Minister may authorise the undertaking of development without consent or assessment under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979
  • to provide for the determination and payment of fees under the NSW Reconstruction Authority Act 2022launch.
The Regulatory Impact Statement should be read in conjunction with the regulation, which is available on the NSW legislation website.

A copy of the Regulatory Impact Statement is available on this page or on the NSW Reconstruction Authority website.

Have your say by Monday 15 May 2023.

Narrabeen Sharks JRLFC: Celebrating 90 Years Of The Narrabeen Sharks  

As the story goes, the Narrabeen Sharks JRLFC had its humble beginnings on March 7, 1932 in Jack McLean’s barber shop.   And so the rest is history. 

Recount the incredible stories, the memories, the pictures, and the spirit of this legendary club in a limited edition hardcover book.  

Hop on to our website and order your copy today.  Delivery or pick up is coming after Easter: https://narrabeensharks.com.au/shop/

We’ll also be hosting a book launch at the commencement of the A-Grade season – stay tuned for details.


Greendale Creek Flood Study

Northern Beaches Council is responsible for the identification of flood prone land in the Local Government Area (LGA).  Council have prepared the draft Greendale Creek Flood Study that outlines how flood waters move through the Greendale Creek catchment and flow down to Curl Curl Lagoon.

The study area includes parts of the suburbs of Beacon Hill, Brookvale, Curl Curl, Freshwater and North Curl Curl. The catchment is affected by flooding due to rainfall runoff, and in the lower parts from rising lagoon flood waters. The results of the study will update the flood information currently used by Council for planning.

Council appreciates there is a lot of technical information contained in the draft study and invite you to come along to talk to one of their flood specialists to understand what this might mean for you. Click here to make a booking or call the Floodplain Planning Team on 1300 434 434 (during business hours). Bookings are essential.

Council have presented the draft study in different ways on this page, including a study area map, a breakdown of the sections, and the full document. They also encourage you to view the Frequently asked questions.

You can provide feedback on the draft study by:

completing the submission form here
writing to marked ‘Draft Greendale Creek Flood Study', Northern Beaches Council, PO Box 82 Manly NSW 1655.

Submissions close Sunday 7 May 2023.

Winter Market Day: Scotland Island - Catherine Park Call Out For Makers

Sunday 25 June, 10 - 1 pm: Calling all makers, artists and entrepreneurs! 
 
Do you have something you’d like to sell at a market stall at the June island café? It could be artwork, pottery, clothes, candles, books or... well, pretty much anything. 
 
Tables are $20. To book, please email floydcbg@ozemail.com.au


Letters To The Editor

Letters should preferably be 150 to 175 words, but considering the magazines inability to word limit itself - that remains optional.
Letters must include the writer's address and phone number and 'permission to publish'.
Letters should not contain attachments - these will be requested if required to illustrate content/subject.
Letters should be exclusive to Pittwater Online News.

The editor's prerogative includes editing letters for length, grammar or legal reasons, among other considerations. 

Conservation Zones Review And Technical Studies Update

We are writing to let you know that the following reports are available on our project website:
There are three reports:
  1. Snapshot of the consultation report – A quick overview of the issues raised in the submissions and the engagement approach.
  2. Consultation Report – A complete summary of the key issues raised in the submissions and Council’s response.
  3. Submissions – All of the submissions received during the consultation.
What are we doing now?
  • We are currently investigating changes to the methodology that could address concerns raised by the community.
  • We are meeting with the Department of Planning and Environment to discuss the Review, the submissions received, and possible changes. This is important because the Department will have the final say about any proposed zoning changes resulting from the Review.
  • We will be undertaking site inspections in certain circumstances where a dispute remains about the mapping of criteria used in the Conservation Zones Review methodology. We will be engaging appropriate consultants to assist with these inspections, which we expect will commence in May 2023. We will contact relevant landowners about any proposed site inspections.
The next steps will involve: 
  • Finalising changes to the methodology of the Review, in conjunction with the Department of Planning and Environment and relevant state agencies.
  • Undertaking site inspections with relevant landowners to resolve remaining mapping disputes.
  • Preparing a Planning Proposal for the new Northern Beaches Local Environmental Plan (LEP) which incorporates the outcomes from this work to be considered by Council and subsequent public exhibition and community feedback in 2023/2024.
Thank you for your continued interest in this project. If you require any assistance, please contact:
Strategic and Place Planning team
Ph: 1300 434 434 

Australia Post At The Crossroads

Your chance to tell the government which postal services matter most.
Technology has changed the way we live, affecting all parts of the community from individuals to social groups and corporations. 

Jobs and entire industries have disappeared as “smart” devices revolutionise the way things are done.  

One enterprise facing huge challenges is Australia Post, which is expected to register a loss this financial year – its first since 2015. Projections indicate that further, deeper losses will eventuate if changes are not made. 

Australia Post, and the Postmaster General’s Office before it, has served us well since federation in 1901, connecting people over vast distances by the prompt delivery of letters and packages. 

But advances in technology — from telegrams to telephones, faxes, emails and instant messaging — have fundamentally changed the postal service’s business model and maybe even its raison d'être. 

The volume of letters being sent through traditional mail has dropped significantly in recent years, but Australia Post is obliged by law to deliver a daily postal service to 98% of households.  

The current cost of a stamp — $1.20 — does not reflect the actual cost of delivery. 

Meanwhile, the boom in internet shopping has created greater demand for parcel delivery – an area in which Australia Post competes with private operators.  

With this in mind, the federal government has begun public consultation on the future of Australia Post. 

Communications Minister Michelle Rowland said the government wanted broad feedback before it started considering various options. 

She said the consultation “will ensure Australia Post maintains the long-term financial stability it needs to continue supporting small businesses and providing essential community services — particularly in our rural, regional and remote communities”. 

Join the Conversation
Which postal services matter most to you? The Australian Government wants to hear from you about the postal services you want and need now, and into the future. 

Your input will help the government understand how to modernise postal and related services so that Australia Post can deliver the services people want, while also supporting its long-term financial sustainability. 

You can have your say by: 

• Visiting the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts website and adding a comment in the “short comment” box. Visit:  www.infrastructure.gov.au/have-your-say/postal-services-modernisation

• Uploading a submission to the website or emailing it to postalconsultation@infrastructure.gov.au. 

• Writing to: Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts GPO Box 594 Canberra ACT 2601, marking it Attention: Director, Postal Policy — Communications Services and Consumer Division. 

Submissions close on 27 April 2023. 

Rig Recycle: Fishing Gear Items

Are you tired of seeing fishing gear and packaging waste end up in landfill? (or killing local seabirds and turtles?)
Rig Recycle is the first Australian initiative that collects recreational fishing and packaging items and diverts them from landfill through a repair, reuse and recycle framework.

In partnership with Recycle Mate, they've made it even easier to recycle your fishing gear waste! Simply search for your nearest Rig Recycle bin on their app. 

Don't have one at your local fishing store? Let them know and they will reach out to them themselves.♻️
Visit their website for more information. Visit: www.rigrecycle.org
More in this Issue's Aquatics Feature.


Mona Vale Residents Association

Mona Vale Residents Association is a community group encouraging involvement on important matters within the Mona Vale area.



Become A Volunteer Radio Operator: MRNSW

Are you looking for a new challenge? With the busy summer boating season coming up Marine Rescue NSW units up and down the coast want to hear from you! And if you live in Sydney, our State Communications Centre in Belrose is especially keen to hear from you, just drop a line to: base.sydney@marinerescuensw.com.au 

Prior radio and boating experience is not required, and as a Radio Operator you'll play a vital role in helping to keep our waterways safer. If you want to take the plunge and join a dedicated volunteer team helping to save lives on our waterways, then go here for more information: 
www.marinerescuensw.com.au/become-a-volunteer/ or contact your local Marine Rescue NSW unit directly.

April 16 - 22  2023: Issue 579

This Issue: full list in Contents page 

Front Page Issue 579 

Clear Breach Of Height Limit In DA Recommended For Approval On Old Palm Beach Fish & Chip Site + Rezoning Of Pittwater Plans Ignite Renewed Calls For A Return Of Pittwater Council

Wesley Taylor Narrabeen To Close – Will Be Sold To Developers: Multiple Closures Of Local Aged Care Facilities In Past 2 Years May See Some Residents Having To Move Away From Family Members + A Few History Insights Into The 93 Year Run Of This Home For The Elderly

Millions Left Stranded By Cancelled Bus Services: New Labor Government Transport Minister Delves Into Privatisation Contracts, Finds Companies Make More By Leaving You On The Side Of The Road

Council Proposal To Install Soft-Fall Rubber + Synthetic Grass At Dee Why Beach Playground For Very Young Children

Survey For Feedback On Avalon Beach Shared Space Opens As Six Month Trial Begins - Closes Four Months Prior To Trial End

Aquatics: Aussies 2023 Wrap: Members From Local Clubs Shine A Brilliant Light On Surf Life Saving Skills In W.A.

Pictures: Mona Vale Road East Upgrade Update: April 2023 Pictures Vs. December 2022 Photos

Environment Protect Mona Vale's Bongin Bongin Bay - Establish An Aquatic Reserve, Autumn: Gum Blossom - Fungi Time, Environmental Impact Reports Hugely Underestimate Consequences For Wildlife, We rely on expert predictions to guide conservation but even experts have biases and blind spots, Nature is in crisis. Here are 10 easy ways you can make a difference, Scientists Show How We Can Anticipate Rather Than React To Extinction In Mammals, Swamp Wallaby At Palm Beach, Northern Beaches Clean Up Crew: Avalon Beach April 30, Permaculture Northern Beaches - Upcoming Events, Report Fox Sightings, Weed Of The Season: Cassia - Please Pull Out and Save Our Bush, New 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, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment Activities, Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations In Pittwater, 'Nature Prescriptions' Can Improve Physical And Mental Health: Study, Seven ways to recycle heat and reduce carbon emissions, In the turbulent Drake Passage, scientists find a rare window where carbon sinks quickly into the deep ocean, Can a ‘nature repair market’ really save Australia’s environment? It’s not perfect, but it’s worth a shot, Australia’s main iron ore exports may not work with green steelmaking; Here’s what we must do to prepare, Dingo attacks are rare – but here’s what you need to know about dingo safety, Pragmatism versus idealism? Behind the split between environmental groups and the Greens on the safeguard mechanism, Monsters or masters of the deep sea? Why the deepest of deep-sea fish aren’t as scary as you might think, Ice Sheets Can Collapse Faster Than Previously Thought Possible, New research shows how rapidly ice sheets can retreat – and what it could mean for Antarctic melting, The UN is asking the International Court of Justice for its opinion on states’ climate obligations; What does this mean?, Capitalising on climate anxiety: what you need to know about ‘climate-washing’, Countries agreed to ban ozone-depleting chemicals in the 1980s – but we found five CFCs increasing to record levels in the atmosphere, Batteries won’t cut it – we need solar thermal technology to get us through the night, At The End Of The Dry Season: CO2 Pulses Over Australia,  Pittwater Reserves: Histories + Notes + Pictorial Walks, Where to Recycle plastic tags

Inbox News How can I help my teen quit vaping?, Fasting Diet Reduces Risk Markers Of Type 2 Diabetes, Predatory Dinosaurs Such As T. Rex Sported Lizard-Like Lips, Corporate social responsibility: Why family businesses get more bang for their buck than non-family firms, New Findings That Map The Universe's Cosmic Growth Support Einstein's Theory Of Gravity, This Elephant's Self-Taught Banana Peeling Offers Glimpse Of Elephants' Broader Abilities, A Miniature Heart In A Petri Dish: Organoid Emulates Development Of The Human Heart, Resistance-Fighting Antimalarial Drug Candidate Enters The Clinic, Iron Link Offers New Treatment Hope For Incurable Blood Cancer, Don’t Lock Vulnerable Older Australians Out Of Banking: COTA, History Of The Suspension Bridge / Northbridge Tramline Of The Sydney Tramway System, Covid Cases Increasing In Aged Care Homes, Priority Groups Urged To Book In For Free Influenza Vaccine, Go-It-Alone Pharmacists’ Prescribing Not The Answer To GP Shortages: AMA, Flu Season 2023: What You Need To Know, StewartBrown Aged Care Financial Performance Survey (December 2022), Australia Post At The Crossroads, AMA (NSW) Urges Newly Elected Labor Government To Step Up To Healthcare Challenges, 'Nature Prescriptions' Can Improve Physical And Mental Health: Study, Australia Post Keeps The Torch Burning For Legacy, Rockin' for Variety 2023 with Beryl, Loosely Woven: new concert this April, History of the Suspension Bridge / Northbridge Tramline of the Sydney Tramway System, Word Of The Week: Suffrage, 3 reasons you feel hungrier and crave comfort foods when the weather turns cold, As the global musical phenomenon turns 50, a hip-hop professor explains what the word ‘dope’ means to him, Seven tips for a healthier relationship with your phone, Why reading books is good for society, wellbeing and your career, Guide to the classics: steeped in the arboreal sublime, Thomas Hardy’s The Woodlanders carries a startling urgency, ‘Like blood, then turned into darkness’: how medieval manuscripts link lunar eclipses, volcanoes and climate change, A ‘next-generation’ gamma-ray observatory is underway to probe the extreme Universe, Since the late 19th century adventurous female ‘eclipse chasers’ have contributed to science in Australia, Jupiter’s moons hide giant subsurface oceans – two upcoming missions are sending spacecraft to see if these moons could support life, First near-complete sauropod dinosaur skull found in Australia hints at ancient links between continents, How the world’s oldest known meteorite impact structure changed the chemistry of Earth’s crust,  Book Of The Month - April 2023: Poor Man's Orange by Ruth Park

North Narrabeen Surf Life Saving Club: Proposed Alterations and Extensions - feedback closes April 30, drop-in information sessions Thursday 20 April, 10am-12pm and Saturday 22 April, 10am-12pm

Park Bench Philosophers UN General Assembly Adopts Resolution Requesting International Court Of Justice Provide Advisory Opinion On States’ Obligations Concerning Climate Change: The Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change Led Campaign

North Narrabeen Surf Life Saving Club: Proposed Alterations and Extensions - feedback closes April 30, drop-in information sessions Thursday 20 April, 10am-12pm and Saturday 22 April, 10am-12pm

Avalon Beach Norfolk Pines: To Honour Those Who Served – Anzac Day 2023 History Precursors

2023 Environmental Art & Design Prize + 2023 Creative Open: Call For Artists Now Open For Your Entries + Ideas - Creative Open entries close April 21 -  Environmental Art & Design Prize entries close Sunday, May 14

Profile of the Week Ringtail Posse 3  - April 2023: Jeffrey Quinn: Kookaburra, Tom Borg McGee: Kookaburra, Stephanie Galloway-Brown: Bandicoot, Joe Mills: Noisy Miner

Definition from
Ringtail: from the 'Common Ringtail Possum' which is not so common anymore in urban areas. The Ringtail Possum is found along the entire eastern part of Australia and south west Western Australia. They are also found throughout Tasmania. The western ringtail possum is a threatened species under State and Commonwealth legislation. In Western Australia the species is listed as Critically Endangered fauna under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016.

Posse: noun. 1 : a large group often with a common interest 2 : a body of persons summoned by a sheriff to assist in preserving the public peace usually in an emergency 3 : a group of people temporarily organised to make a search (as for a lost child) 4 : one's attendants or associates.

In recent years news about the development of robotics and robots that speak has been prevalent. However, a Mona Vale Toymaker had a robot 'toy' that could speak long before many of the modern versions of talking dolls and robots came along. Built over a year in his Mona Vale home's workshop, 'Luke the Talking Robot' brought together many of the skills Lewis Pimblett had acquired throughout his life, and which commenced working in his father's Coach making business in Beaufort, Victoria.

Although this history insight has been penned for youngsters who like building things over the school holidays, older readers will certainly remember some of the inventions of Lewis Pimblett or 'Pims toys'.

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: April 1, 2023

Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Contents April 1st 2023 Issue: Cleaning Up Pittwater, Island Race: The Results, Two Catherines: A Twisted Scotland Island Tale, Easter Egg Hunt, International Folk Dancing, The Tuesday Discussion Group, Scotland Island Fire Shed Dinner, Scotland Island Café, Newcomers' Welcome, Anzac Day Memorial Service, Feast for Freedom, Seafarers' Shindig, Scotland Island Revive Retreat, Winter Market Day

Mona Vale Public School Upgrade: February 2023 Update

The Mona Vale Public School Upgrade Project update of February 2023 provided by School Infrastructure NSW states:

Work continued over the summer school holidays on external landscaping and the refurbishment of Blocks A (new student library), B (4 classrooms and a shared practical activity area) and H (teachers’ resource library, storeroom, and shared office space). These works were completed in time for students and staff to enjoy from Day 1 Term 1 2023.

Funded by the school, a sunshade structure over the new centralised amphitheatre was built, which will allow for enriched student learning and play while being sun safe.

New walkways were finished to provide better accessible connections throughout the school. This includes connections from the main entrance to Block B, the canteen and hall, and Block D lower level classrooms. Accessible walkways connecting the centralised amphitheatre and upper-level Block D classrooms to the new library in Block A and the Emma Street gate were also finished.

The time capsule and Heritage Bell were reinstated at the end of the 2022 school year, in time for the traditional bell ringing for the Year 6 leavers. The heritage pavers were laid adjacent to the Heritage Bell along with new pavers provided by the school community.

Work on the new performance space (Block S) continued with external wall cladding, landscaping and work on the interior progressing well.

6 demountable classrooms which are no longer needed were removed from the oval.

Work started on an upgrade to the Emma Street teachers’ carpark.

Next steps
  • Work will continue on the Emma Street teachers’ carpark upgrade, which is expected to be finished and ready for use by March 2023.
  • Work on the lift to Block E will continue and is on track to be finished by February 2023.
  • Construction of the new performance space will continue and is expected to be finished by March 2023.
The Mona Vale PS project will deliver a new administration and classroom building (Block R), a new performance space (Block S), and upgrades and refurbishment of Blocks A, B, D, E, H and N, including new staff and administration spaces.

Photos taken Monday April 10 2023 by Pittwater Online:




'6 demountable classrooms which are no longer needed' still on the oval.

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Needs Volunteers

The Auxiliary is looking for new members to help with our fund raising efforts.  New ideas and assistance with our stalls are very welcome.  Contact 0407 216 253 for more information.

The Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary members host a stall at Pittwater Place on the first Saturday of every month from 9am to 3pm selling knitting for babies and children, beanies, bedsocks and scarves for oldies, sewing items, craft and jams, raising funds for the rehabilitation and palliative care units.

Vale Terry O'Sullivan



It is with sadness we inform you of the passing of Terry O’Sullivan, better know as Tezza to family and friends.

Terry was a great friend and supporter of both Warringah and Newport rugby, as well as Avalon rugby league through his business “Barrenjoey Signs” at Mona Vale. He was always happy to help with sponsorship and nothing was too much trouble.

His smiling face, with beer in hand was missed at the Newport BB's games on Saturday.
The club held a one minute's silence prior to the beginning of the A Grade game to honour Terry.



Terry O'Sullivan aka T-Rex, Tezzy or Bad Grandpa passed away in his home on Easter Sunday morning, 9 April 2023. He was found peacefully asleep in his favourite chair.

His family have asked everyone to come along and celebrate his life with them at the Northern Suburbs Crematorium on Wednesday 19th April at 10:15am and a wake will be held at the Avalon Bowlo from 1pm. 

The family have said:
We ask that you bring your cherished memories of him (and your naughty one’s too…..we know there’ll be a few)

If Tezzy touched your life in any way we'd love to see you there. 

From his daughters,
Aja, Cassie and Rachael

Newport Breakers: New Womens' Change Rooms To Be Opened By Australian Women's 7s

Newport Breakers new women's change rooms have been completed and are set for an official opening on Friday April 28th 2023 with rugby great Sharni Williams and other womens' rugby greats attending.



Pittwater Online spoke to new Newport Breakers President Steve Hewitson on Saturday April 15. Steve said he's looking forward to building a strong bond between old and new players this year, half of Newport's team members across the grades are new, and replicating the success the club had during the 2022 Season.

The club had its first games for the Season with a clean sweep in all grades in their matches against Briars.
  • 3rd Grade against Briars 24 - 7
  • Colts had a 58 - 19 win
  • 2nd Grade match resulted in a 14 - 12 win 
  • 1st Grade - Newport have opened their defence of the the Barraclough Cup with a big 60 - 7 win
More Breakers News Sunday week, April 23rd, after the school holidays break, including more action from today's games - look out for the full report in Issue 580.


Rockin’ For Variety: Beryl Driver For Variety 2023 B To B

Beryl Driver is once again heading off to Outback Australia in August for her beloved charity Variety - the Children’s Charity. To raise funds for this year's B to B the 3rd Age Rock Orchestra has again jumped on the band wagon to help with a Rock ’n Roll concert to be held at Club Palm Beach RSL on Saturday April 22.  

Tickets for the concert are $25 each and available from Beryl - phone 0410 478 897. 

This year’s Variety B to B Bash rally will be an epic journey from Bathurst in NSW to the beautiful Batavia Coast in WA. The journey covers 5,500km of open farmland, rugged mountain ranges, deserts and bush tracks through stations and towns. Along the way, those taking part will visit towns and schools and see the direct impact of their fund raising activities with a range of educational, health and mobility equipment donated to local schools and organisations.

The 3rd Age Rock Orchestra is a group of 35 Seniors who come together weekly to enjoy playing and singing ballads and rock songs from the 50’s to the present day. The Orchestra has been together for five years. Members belong to U3A and are amateur singers and musicians who have a love of popular music. They rehearse under the leadership of Harvey Broadbent AM, who has a wealth of musical experience having played in bands and music groups since his early teens. The Orchestra rehearses in Narrabeen and performs several public concerts each year. 

They are BRILLIANT! 

So, as Molly Meldrum used to say; 'do yourself a favour' - get up and get down to these sweet sounds, Rockin' for Variety; the Children's charity and our own very sweet and very wonderful Beryl D!


Beryl with her grand daughter Ruby and son in law Andy on last year’s Bash, clowning around.


The 3rd Age Rock Orchestra.

Careel Creek Improvements Funded

Council is pleased to share the news that it’s been successful in receiving approximately $25,000 from the State Government to fund improvements to the riparian vegetation condition of Careel Creek in North Avalon. Council is also committing funds to the project which will see almost $50,000 invested into the project in partnership with the NSW Department of Planning and Environment - Crown Lands as part of its Crown Reserves Improvement Fund. Careel Creek provides a green corridor and pedestrian way located between North Avalon and the suburb centre, and so engages users with the waterway and natural environment. 

In 2020, public concern about the condition of Careel Creek led Council to undertake sediment and weed removal works to improve its overall condition, including in sections identified as Crown Land with the support of Crown funding. Following the sediment and weed removal, bush regeneration works to improve the native vegetation condition continued.

To support Council works on Crown Land, Council successfully sought matching financial support from the Crown resulting in $24,545 being awarded for the period March 2023 until January 2024.

Careel Creek is exposed to nutrients, sediment and weed propagules captured by the Avalon stormwater system, and these collectively promote aggressive growth of non-native plant species. The vegetation management strategy for the site acknowledges these issues, so bush regeneration efforts will focus on bringing exotic vines under control with a view to eliminate them, plant and nurture canopy tree species, and promote grassy ground cover where weed removal is unproductive and time consuming.

Council works will continue beyond the end date of the grant funding, and further grant funding opportunities will be pursued if or when available.


In Tune With Tony B

In Tune is a radio programme about our local community, culture and home-grown music, hosted by TonyB. Each week, Tony plays great local music and he chats with guests from local community causes and charities, about how they make a difference.

In his next programme on Friday 21st April 2023 at 6pm, Tony chats with Craig Stevens from Community Northern Beaches, supporting vulnerable and at-risk people with a range of services for domestic & family violence, homelessness, refugees and families, youth and children.  

Special thanks to Ian Stuart of Rotary Matters, for bringing us this interview.

The programme will also feature a great line up of predominantly home-grown music.
 
Radio Northern Beaches
Fridays at 6pm
FM 88.7 or 90.3
Or live stream at https://www.rnb.org.au
Previous programmes, on demand at https://www.mixcloud.com/InTuneWithTonyB
If you would like to chat with Tony on air about your community cause or your music, please feel free to message the Facebook page  In Tune - Radio Programme | Facebook and feel free to like and share the page.

Canopy Keepers: Advocates For Pittwater's Trees

At the March 2023 Meeting a bunch of Keepers attended the council chambers in support of member Jane's address to the councillors, seeking an answer about the status of the long-awaited Urban Tree Canopy Plan for the Northern Beaches.  Jane was following up Keeper Leigh's address to council last July regarding the plan (which has been promised since way back in 2018).

We are happy to hear it is finished and will be available to us this month.
Fingers crossed!

We were also there in support of Clr. Kristyn Glanville's motion to council to increase compliance development and building control.

Of most interest to us is the apparently frequent incidence of unauthorised clearing of trees and vegetation on both private and public land, and the ongoing non compliance when it comes to tree replacement.

We are happy to hear that this motion was supported, and look forward to a conversation about better ways to protect our precious trees.

More in: From The Council Chamber March 28, 2023 by Pittwater Councillor Miranda Korzy


Photo Canopy Keepers members outside the council chamber at March 28, 2023 meeting. Photo: Canopy Keepers

Call For Artists: Council's Street Art

Council is currently looking for four new public artworks to add to its growing collection of Street Art. The four sites are:
  1. North Curl Curl Community Centre
  2. Mona Vale Memorial Hall
  3. Mona Vale Village Park
  4. Peninsula Carpark, Rialto Square Manly

The program is a chance to bring artists, residents, businesses, property owners and the community together to create quality new artworks in unexpected places in our town and village centres. As part of its Street Art program, Council has previously commissioned artists including, David Cragg, Otis Hope Carey, Elliott Routledge, Claire Foxton, Kentaro Yoshida, Bradley Eastman, Brentos, Helen Proctor and Studio Dennis.

This project is made possible thanks to a Graffiti Management Grant from the NSW Department of Communities and Justice.


Monika's Doggie Rescue: Pets Of The Week

Rocky 

12yo Pom x Shihtzu


Rocky is a sweet affectionate boy. He is very social with other small dogs. Rocky's former owner could no longer care for him. Rocky is quite active for his age and has had recent vet checks including a dental with removal of a fractured tooth and umbilical hernia repair. He does have a heart murmur but does not need any medication. Rocky comes when called but is not a fan of being picked up. He walks well on lead. He needs an experienced confident person to pick him up. He has a calm nature and is good for grooming. Rocky weighs a chunky 8.8kg and has a low shedding coat. Rocky suits apartment living and copes with FT hours alone but does need a family with rescue experience. All our dogs come desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DoggieRescue Vet. His adoption fee is $400.

Maple 

7mth Kitten Domestic Short Hair


Maple is one of Hazel’s kittens. They came from the pound. Loves to play and investigate! She has a short coat and weighs 1.9kg. All our cats come desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV/FeLV tested and microchipped. Her adoption fee is $220. 

To find out more call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email  Monika@DoggieRescue.com.  RON R251000024

Energy Efficient Grants For Local Businesses

From Dr Sophie Scamps - MP for Mackellar
If you're a small to medium business looking to upgrade inefficient equipment, now is the time to consider applying for the Energy Efficiency Grants for Small and Medium Sized Enterprises. 

These grants will support businesses to upgrade equipment to improve their energy efficiency, reduce their energy use and manage energy cost volatility in the long term. 

Visit bit.ly/3FyTPgU for more information on eligibility and how to apply. 

Closes Wednesday 19 April 2023.


Scam Alert: Telstra Impersonation Emails

From ACMA
Have you received an unexpected email from Telstra asking you to complete a form to avoid disruption or cancellation of your service? Be wary – it may be a scam!

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is aware of an emerging email scam that uses Telstra’s branding and advises recipients to complete a KYC (Know Your Customer) compliance form. The email falsely advises that this is required due to a new ACMA policy.

If you’ve received this email do not download or open the attachment or any links in the message.

If you are in any doubt about whether an email you have received from Telstra is genuine, contact Telstra via its publicly available contact details or verified app.

Telstra has more information about how to identify a legitimate email on their website: www.telstra.com.au/cyber-security-and-safety/active-scams

If you believe you are victim of a cybercrime, go to ReportCyber at cyber.gov.au: www.cyber.gov.au/acsc/report

Scammers target everyone. Learn more about how to protect yourself from phone scams on the ACMA website and make a report to Scamwatch


Finding Help To Pay Your Bills

For many it’s getting to the stage where you feel sick to your stomach walking to your letterbox or opening your email. You know there’s going to be yet another bill in there costing you more money that you don’t have. The bills are relentless.  

Take a deep breath. You have some options.  

At the end of the day, the biller just wants to be paid
When facing the constant, never-ending deluge of bills that we all receive, it is very easy to forget the fundamental truth: the biller just wants to be paid. Yes, they want to be paid their money in a timely manner, but as they consolidate their own debts, it is in their interest that you pay your money at a later point than not at all. 

As a person struggling to stay on top of your bills, it is always worth keeping this in mind. As long as a company wants to see its debt paid, there will always be a pathway forward.  

To encourage people to pay their bills on time, it is becoming increasingly common for bills to offer an ‘on-time’ discount. Pay your bills by the due date and you’ll pay less.  

On-time discounts are a strong incentive for many. But, for those struggling to find the money to pay those bills it makes little to no difference. 

Many government agencies and utility companies will offer the ability to apply for a bill extension or instalment plan to pay off a bill. If you know times are tough right now, but that you will have access to more money at a future date, then this can be a good way to defer your debts for a limited time period. You can usually find details about such deferral schemes on the back of the bill you receive or on the website of the biller. 

Different types of bills deliver different relief solutions
For many organisations when they talk about offering relief to people with difficulty meeting bill obligations, they will refer to their relief solutions. Quite often what they are talking about here is putting customers onto an instalment plan to pay off their bill. 

Bill payment relief can take multiple forms. For example, many Queensland local councils can refer citizens to the Independent Rates Relief Tribunal which can provide assistance to people having difficulty meeting basic living expenses. To be eligible for assistance like this, the applicants must reside at the residence where the rates are due and own just the one property, among several restrictions. 

Some companies are better about the level of support they offer than others. An example of a company that offers a really good service to its customers facing financial hardship is energy provider AGL. Ultimately, it is still a company which is doing what it can to see bills paid, but it goes the extra step with advice and options to try to keep ahead of debt. 

It offers the ‘Staying Connected’ program, where consultants assist customers with: 

Tailored plans that match the customer’s situation to put them on a payment plan. 
Advice on payment options, government assistance, and available concessions. 
Connecting customers with free and independent financial counselling and support services. 
Advice on energy efficiency to bring bill prices down. 

Real help you can use
Deferring payments or entering instalment plans is not a long-term solution. After all, it may fix the problem of the current bill, but next month or quarter, another bill will land in your letterbox. While deferring your immediate debts, you need to find a solution that can help you meet your bill obligations into the future. 

The best thing you can do is to call the government-run National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007. It runs Mon-Fri 9:30am - 4:30pm. They will help you with general financial suggestions, but also advise on consumer rights and other related issues. Indigenous Australians might prefer to call the similar Mob Strong Debt Helpline on 1800 808 488.  

You may also be able to access further assistance through charities and other community organisations who offer emergency relief services like: 
  • Food vouchers / supplies. 
  • Assistance with utility bills.
  • Clothing and furniture.
Don't let your health be impacted
Anyone who tries telling you that money doesn’t buy happiness is someone who hasn’t felt the mental stress of a debt spiral.  

People having trouble paying their bills can find that they: 
  • Are constantly stressed and irritable. 
  • Have difficulty sleeping. 
  • Find solace in substance abuse like alcohol and drugs.
  • Cease spending money on healthcare (therapies, medication, and other treatments) to try to pay off debt.
  • Overspend (often using credit cards) to feel better about the stress that they feel. 
Just as you can get free help to combat your debt, there are several services available to help you with your mental health. Beyond Blue is the largest and most well-known organisation that can help with mental health. You can talk to counsellors via their website www.beyondblue.org.au or over the phone 1300 22 4636.  

There are also other services that can help. If you are still in employment, many businesses offer their staff free access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAP). There are also specialised services like MensLine Australia that are focused on assisting with men’s mental health issues. 

Disclaimer
All insights and information provided should be considered general advice for educational purposes only. As we are unaware of your personal circumstances, the information in this article should not be misconstrued as personalised financial advice. We recommend seeking advice from a qualified financial professional before making any major financial decisions. 

Volunteers Needed: Red Cross Avalon Shop

Please talk to the people in the shop or telelphone if you can help out each week, for around 4 hours.
Address: Shop 4 & 5 / 48 Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon 2107 NSW; Phone: 02 9918 0952

Volunteers Needed: Meals On Wheels

Meals on Wheels have lost a lot of volunteers in the last few months due to COVID regulations etc. so they are desperate for some new people on the roster. The local service covers all the way from Manly Vale up to Palm Beach, so a run takes around 60-90mins. 

You leave from and return to the warehouse in Bassett Street, Mona Vale.
You don’t need to sign on to permanent shifts, even once a month would help them out greatly.
All drivers need an unrestricted license, must be fully vaccinated and will require a volunteer police check.
If you are able to assist please call Milly on 9457 3900 or email 
NBeachesVolunteer@kmow.org.au and she can give you more info and send you through training paperwork.


JP Public Register

You can find a Justice of the Peace (JP) using the online Public Register. You can search by postcode, name of a JP, day of availability, language spoken and JP registration number. The register lists a JP’s location, availability and telephone number. Please note that JPs are volunteers and may not be available at all times. Click here to access the JP Public Register
NB: There are  3 J.P’s working in Pittwater RSL Sub-Branch office, we work every Monday (10:30am to 15:30)except on public holidays:
  1. Terry Jones J.P.
  2. Robert (Bob) Wood J.P.
  3. Deborah Hendy(Carter) J.P

Rotary Upper Northern Beaches: Get Involved In Something Positive

At Rotary Upper Northern Beaches, we are always welcoming new members. We find that new members bring new ideas, energy and opportunities. There is something for everyone in Rotary and you can apply your skills for the betterment of our community. This can include anything from cooking a BBQ, to managing a fundraising project, to helping with marketing and social media. You can even get the opportunity to serve on our Board.

We have been quite active in the community over recent and coming weeks, including;
      - Pre Christmas community projects, such as the Tree of Joy (Warriewood Square) and Carols In The Park at Village Park, Mona Vale.
      - Australia Day Breakfast at Newport Beach 
      - Annual Art Show at Mona Vale Memorial Hall (24 - 26 February) raised much needed funds for worthy charities
      - An evening of collaboration with other Northern Beaches Rotary Clubs brainstorming strategies for member engagement and growth (21 February)
      - The Bobbo (Bobbin Head Cycle Classic, Sunday 26 March). Another great collaboration with other Rotary Clubs based on the North Shore
      - Our Annual Charity Golf Day (6 April at Monash Country Club)
    
These are just a few examples of our fund raising and community activities. If you are looking for a way to give back to the community, while meeting some great people and having some fun with it, please come and check us out. We meet most Wednesday nights at The Sands Hotel Narrabeen (except for the 2nd Wednesday if each month, which is at Avalon RSL (6pm Dinner in the bistro for 7pm Rotary meeting upstairs at both venues). 

If you would like to know more about Rotary and how you can get involved, please contact us on 02 8005 0711 or email contact@rotaryuppernorthernbeaches.org


Please Slow Down: Wildlife Crossing

Phoebe the Swamp Wallaby weighed less than a kilogram when she was orphaned on the roadside after her mother was hit and killed by a vehicle. Fortunately, Phoebe was uninjured, taken to a local vet and raised and then released by Sydney Wildlife volunteer Jane.

While Phoebe was fortunate, other native birds and animals are not so lucky. So, if you’re returning home after your summer holiday (or just out and about on Australia Day), please slow down - particularly at dawn and dusk and in areas identified with wildlife crossing signs, for your safety and the welfare of our wildlife.

Please contact Sydney Wildlife Rescue on (02) 9413 4300 for advice if you hit a native animal or come across an injured one while driving. It is helpful if you can provide an accurate location or landmark to assist our rescuers who will pouch check marsupials for joeys, so little lives like Phoebe can be saved. 



 
Photo: Phoebe the Swamp Wallaby by Jane
Notice by Sydney Wildlife Rescue

Speed Humps On McCarrs Creek Rd: Please Share Wildlife Data 

Local wildlife rescuers are asking all members of the public to report any roadkill on McCarrs Ck Rd or any other road in the NB (Wakehurst Parkway or Mona Vale Road for instance) on www.wildlifemapping.org

It records the GPS position, date, sex, species. Photos can be added as they help in identification
The data is then forwarded to OEH and Transport NSW as it can help establish the best places to place  mitigation. Thanking you all in advance for your help with this. There is so much wildlife on the move in our area at present due to various pressures. Although we have had pictures sent to us, many of these have no date or location. There is a database that volunteers maintain but this needs three pieces of information:
  1. The position via GPS or road and suburb
  2. The date
  3. The animal
The details can be entered into the database directly by you at: www.wildlifemapping.org

Community News

Community News Pages list articles that ran each week as well as reports run in other pages: Inbox and Environment News archives etc.

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Double Demerits Period: Anzac Day 2023

  • Anzac Day: 21 April to 25 April 2023* 
*On Monday 24 April 2023, school zones will be in operation. Drivers are reminded additional penalties can apply for certain offences committed in school zones.

Double demerit periods typically fall during holiday periods or over long weekends. They run from midnight on the start date to midnight on the finish date and are enforced by police. 

The next double demerit period will in April is for the ANZAC Day public holiday. ANZAC Day falls on Tuesday, 25 April and double demerits will be in place over the weekend leading up to ANZAC Day from Friday, 21 April though to the end of Tuesday, 25 April. 

The demerit point system provides an incentive for drivers to improve their driving behaviour, obey road rules and comply with NSW traffic laws. The double demerit point scheme applies for the following types of offences:
  • Speeding
  • Illegal use of mobile phones
  • Not wearing a seatbelt
  • Riding without a helmet
According to the RMS website, any active demerits points you've accrued will remain on your record for a total of 3 years and 4 months.


Anzac Day In Pittwater: 2023 Services

Narrabeen RSL Sub-Branch
Sunday April 23: 11am
Muster at Narrabeen SLSC opposite Furlough House on Ocean streets, March to Cenotaph will commence at 11:30am. March will be led by the Warringah Pipe Band.Commemorative Service and wreath laying will take place at Narrabeen Cenotaph, corner of Ocean and Pittwater roads.

Pittwater RSL, Mona Vale
Anzac Day Dawn Service at 5:30 am at lower cenotaph. Please be seated 10 minutes prior to commencement. In the event of Rain the Service will take place inside the RSL Club. Breakfast within the club afterwards.

Church Point
Anzac Day Memorial Service Tuesday, 25 April, 10.45 am Thomas Stephens Reserve
Our traditional ANZAC Day service will be held at Thomas Stephens Reserve, Church Point on Tuesday, 25 April, commencing 10.45 am. The guest speaker will be announced shortly.  

Newport
5.30 am Anzac Day  Dawn Service at Newport Cenotaph in Trafalgar Park
All Welcome.

Avalon Beach RSL Cenotaph
5.30am: Anzac Day Dawn Service - breakfast within club afterwards
11:00am March and Service. Please muster outside the Avalon Public School on Old Barrenjoey Road at 10.30 am for a 10:45 am start.

Whale Beach Dawn Service: Anzac Day
Anzac Day Tuesday, 25 April 2023 06:00-07:00
by Palm Beach RSL Veterans Ocean Therapy
ANZAC Dawn Service at Whale Beach, breakfast at the Whale Beach Surf Club deck will be available immediately afterward.

Palm Beach RSL: Anzac Day 2023
Anzac Day 11am Service - Muster at northernmost corner of Iluka and Barrenjoey Roads at 10:45 am for March to outside the club for an 11am Commemorative Service at the Palm Beach RSL Cenotaph.
Service Members Luncheon afterwards.


Narrabeen Sharks JRLFC: Celebrating 90 Years Of The Narrabeen Sharks  

As the story goes, the Narrabeen Sharks JRLFC had its humble beginnings on March 7, 1932 in Jack McLean’s barber shop.   And so the rest is history. 

Recount the incredible stories, the memories, the pictures, and the spirit of this legendary club in a limited edition hardcover book.  

Hop on to our website and order your copy today.  Delivery or pick up is coming after Easter: https://narrabeensharks.com.au/shop/

We’ll also be hosting a book launch at the commencement of the A-Grade season – stay tuned for details.


Greendale Creek Flood Study

Northern Beaches Council is responsible for the identification of flood prone land in the Local Government Area (LGA).  Council have prepared the draft Greendale Creek Flood Study that outlines how flood waters move through the Greendale Creek catchment and flow down to Curl Curl Lagoon.

The study area includes parts of the suburbs of Beacon Hill, Brookvale, Curl Curl, Freshwater and North Curl Curl. The catchment is affected by flooding due to rainfall runoff, and in the lower parts from rising lagoon flood waters. The results of the study will update the flood information currently used by Council for planning.

Council appreciates there is a lot of technical information contained in the draft study and invite you to come along to talk to one of their flood specialists to understand what this might mean for you. Click here to make a booking or call the Floodplain Planning Team on 1300 434 434 (during business hours). Bookings are essential.

Council have presented the draft study in different ways on this page, including a study area map, a breakdown of the sections, and the full document. They also encourage you to view the Frequently asked questions.

You can provide feedback on the draft study by:

completing the submission form here
writing to marked ‘Draft Greendale Creek Flood Study', Northern Beaches Council, PO Box 82 Manly NSW 1655.

Submissions close Sunday 7 May 2023.

Winter Market Day: Scotland Island - Catherine Park Call Out For Makers

Sunday 25 June, 10 - 1 pm: Calling all makers, artists and entrepreneurs! 
 
Do you have something you’d like to sell at a market stall at the June island café? It could be artwork, pottery, clothes, candles, books or... well, pretty much anything. 
 
Tables are $20. To book, please email floydcbg@ozemail.com.au


Priority Groups Urged To Book In For Free Influenza Vaccine

April 11, 2023
Priority groups are encouraged to book in now for their free influenza vaccine, ahead of the flu season.

While everyone aged 6 months and over is urged to get their influenza vaccine as soon as possible, it is particularly important for those at higher risk of severe illness from the virus.

The influenza vaccine is free for priority groups, including children aged 6 months to under 5 years, people aged 65 and over, Aboriginal people from 6 months of age, pregnant women and those with serious health conditions such as diabetes, cancer, immune disorders, obesity, severe asthma, kidney, heart, lung or liver disease.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said vaccination is the best way to protect yourself from the harmful effects of flu.

“Influenza is highly contagious and can be deadly for some people, so if you are in one of these priority groups, please take advantage of the free flu vaccine as soon as possible,” Mr Minns said.

NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said influenza vaccines are available through GPs for any age group, as well as through pharmacies for everyone aged 5 years and over.

“When people book, they should ask their pharmacist or GP if they are eligible for a free flu vaccine.

 There is plenty of stock available throughout the state, so now is the time to book your shot,” Mr Park said.

NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant said it is difficult to predict the full impact of the flu season ahead, but vaccination is the way to ensure you are protected.

“If you are aged 65 and over, or at higher risk of severe illness, we also recommend you receive a 2023 COVID-19 vaccine booster, as both flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be given at the same time,” Dr Chant said.

All adults can get a 2023 COVID-19 vaccine booster if it’s been 6 months or longer since their last COVID-19 booster or confirmed infection (whichever is most recent) for additional protection against severe illness from COVID-19.

More advice on COVID-19 booster vaccines can be found at the NSW Health Booster vaccination page.

We can all take steps to help protect ourselves and our loved ones from COVID-19 and flu, including:
  • Stay up to date with your recommended flu and COVID-19 vaccinations
  • Stay home if you have cold or flu symptoms and get tested
  • Wear a mask in crowded, indoor places
  • Get together outdoors or in large, well-ventilated spaces with open doors and windows
  • Wash or sanitise your hands often
  • Talk with your doctor now if you are at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19 or flu to make a plan about what to do if you get sick, including what test to take, and discussing if you are eligible for antiviral medicines
  • Don’t visit people who are at higher risk of severe illness if you have cold or flu symptoms or have tested positive to COVID-19 or flu.
  • Take a rapid antigen test to test for COVID-19 before visiting vulnerable loved ones.

Letters To The Editor

Letters should preferably be 150 to 175 words, but considering the magazines inability to word limit itself - that remains optional.
Letters must include the writer's address and phone number and 'permission to publish'.
Letters should not contain attachments - these will be requested if required to illustrate content/subject.
Letters should be exclusive to Pittwater Online News.

The editor's prerogative includes editing letters for length, grammar or legal reasons, among other considerations. 

Conservation Zones Review And Technical Studies Update

We are writing to let you know that the following reports are available on our project website:
There are three reports:
  1. Snapshot of the consultation report – A quick overview of the issues raised in the submissions and the engagement approach.
  2. Consultation Report – A complete summary of the key issues raised in the submissions and Council’s response.
  3. Submissions – All of the submissions received during the consultation.
What are we doing now?
  • We are currently investigating changes to the methodology that could address concerns raised by the community.
  • We are meeting with the Department of Planning and Environment to discuss the Review, the submissions received, and possible changes. This is important because the Department will have the final say about any proposed zoning changes resulting from the Review.
  • We will be undertaking site inspections in certain circumstances where a dispute remains about the mapping of criteria used in the Conservation Zones Review methodology. We will be engaging appropriate consultants to assist with these inspections, which we expect will commence in May 2023. We will contact relevant landowners about any proposed site inspections.
The next steps will involve: 
  • Finalising changes to the methodology of the Review, in conjunction with the Department of Planning and Environment and relevant state agencies.
  • Undertaking site inspections with relevant landowners to resolve remaining mapping disputes.
  • Preparing a Planning Proposal for the new Northern Beaches Local Environmental Plan (LEP) which incorporates the outcomes from this work to be considered by Council and subsequent public exhibition and community feedback in 2023/2024.
Thank you for your continued interest in this project. If you require any assistance, please contact:
Strategic and Place Planning team
Ph: 1300 434 434 

Australia Post At The Crossroads

Your chance to tell the government which postal services matter most.
Technology has changed the way we live, affecting all parts of the community from individuals to social groups and corporations. 

Jobs and entire industries have disappeared as “smart” devices revolutionise the way things are done.  

One enterprise facing huge challenges is Australia Post, which is expected to register a loss this financial year – its first since 2015. Projections indicate that further, deeper losses will eventuate if changes are not made. 

Australia Post, and the Postmaster General’s Office before it, has served us well since federation in 1901, connecting people over vast distances by the prompt delivery of letters and packages. 

But advances in technology — from telegrams to telephones, faxes, emails and instant messaging — have fundamentally changed the postal service’s business model and maybe even its raison d'être. 

The volume of letters being sent through traditional mail has dropped significantly in recent years, but Australia Post is obliged by law to deliver a daily postal service to 98% of households.  

The current cost of a stamp — $1.20 — does not reflect the actual cost of delivery. 

Meanwhile, the boom in internet shopping has created greater demand for parcel delivery – an area in which Australia Post competes with private operators.  

With this in mind, the federal government has begun public consultation on the future of Australia Post. 

Communications Minister Michelle Rowland said the government wanted broad feedback before it started considering various options. 

She said the consultation “will ensure Australia Post maintains the long-term financial stability it needs to continue supporting small businesses and providing essential community services — particularly in our rural, regional and remote communities”. 

Join the Conversation
Which postal services matter most to you? The Australian Government wants to hear from you about the postal services you want and need now, and into the future. 

Your input will help the government understand how to modernise postal and related services so that Australia Post can deliver the services people want, while also supporting its long-term financial sustainability. 

You can have your say by: 

• Visiting the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts website and adding a comment in the “short comment” box. Visit:  www.infrastructure.gov.au/have-your-say/postal-services-modernisation

• Uploading a submission to the website or emailing it to postalconsultation@infrastructure.gov.au. 

• Writing to: Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts GPO Box 594 Canberra ACT 2601, marking it Attention: Director, Postal Policy — Communications Services and Consumer Division. 

Submissions close on 27 April 2023. 

Rig Recycle: Fishing Gear Items

Are you tired of seeing fishing gear and packaging waste end up in landfill? (or killing local seabirds and turtles?)
Rig Recycle is the first Australian initiative that collects recreational fishing and packaging items and diverts them from landfill through a repair, reuse and recycle framework.

In partnership with Recycle Mate, they've made it even easier to recycle your fishing gear waste! Simply search for your nearest Rig Recycle bin on their app. 

Don't have one at your local fishing store? Let them know and they will reach out to them themselves.♻️
Visit their website for more information. Visit: www.rigrecycle.org
More in this Issue's Aquatics Feature.


Report Hate Crimes

NSW Police Force: 
If you are subjected to hate on social media or online you should keep evidence by taking screen shots of the abuse including usernames, URLs and any other relevant information. 

You can report the abuse directly to the platform and report in person at any Police Station. 

If you witness a hate incident or hate crime but are not the victim, you can still make a report to the NSW Police.

In an Emergency call Triple Zero (000). If not urgent, you can report online at crimestoppers.com.au or call 1800 333 000 or report in person at any Police Station. 

Mona Vale Residents Association

Mona Vale Residents Association is a community group encouraging involvement on important matters within the Mona Vale area.



Become A Volunteer Radio Operator: MRNSW

Are you looking for a new challenge? With the busy summer boating season coming up Marine Rescue NSW units up and down the coast want to hear from you! And if you live in Sydney, our State Communications Centre in Belrose is especially keen to hear from you, just drop a line to: base.sydney@marinerescuensw.com.au 

Prior radio and boating experience is not required, and as a Radio Operator you'll play a vital role in helping to keep our waterways safer. If you want to take the plunge and join a dedicated volunteer team helping to save lives on our waterways, then go here for more information: 
www.marinerescuensw.com.au/become-a-volunteer/ or contact your local Marine Rescue NSW unit directly.

April 2 - 15  2023: Issue 578

This Issue: 

Front Page Issue 578

Marine Rescue Broken Bay Volunteers Will Be On Duty This EasterPlease Log On – Log Off + a look inside the new MRBB Base

New Pittwater MP Will Be Rory Amon - 2023 NSW State Election Results Signal A Change In Pittwater Voters

From The Council Chamber March 28, 2023 by Pittwater Councillor Miranda Korzy

Aquatics: Pittwater To Coffs Yacht Race 2023

Pictures: Avalon Soccer Club Kicks Off Its 2023 Season Home Games: A Catch-Up With The Green & Red Pre-Season

North Narrabeen Surf Life Saving Club: Proposed Alterations and Extensions - feedback closes April 30, drop-in information sessions Thursday 20 April, 10am-12pm and Saturday 22 April, 10am-12pm

Park Bench Philosophers Whether You’re A Snorkeler Or CEO You Can Help Save Our Vital Kelp Forests

DIY Ideas Autumn School Holidays 2023: DIY Project Ideas For Youngsters, Older Youngsters & The Young At Heart - Lava Lamp (60th year of this invention), Wood Building Blocks for Toddlers and Older, Let's go Fly a Kite, Basic Wood Bookshelf, Sundial, Make a rope and wood swing, Making Your Own Windchimes + more

Corellas Of Pittwater

Avalon Beach Norfolk Pines: To Honour Those Who Served – Anzac Day 2023 History Precursors

Environment Protect Mona Vale's Bongin Bongin Bay - Establish An Aquatic Reserve, More Runoff Pollution: Narrabeen-Collaroy Beachfront, Rainbow Lorikeet Pair Feasting On Palm Flowers, New Handrail Installed At North Avalon Beach, Swamp Wallaby At Palm Beach, Westleigh Park - Critically Endangered Forest - POM Open For Feedback By Hornsby Council Until April 8, Calling All Citizen Scientists: Hunt For Shark Egg Cases Launches In Australia, Cat Owners Encouraged To Keep Their Pets Safe At Home, Black Summer Vigil For Wildlife: April 2nd, Permaculture Northern Beaches - Upcoming Events, Northern Beaches Clean Up Crew: Avalon Beach April 30, Report Fox Sightings, Weed Of The Week: Cassia - Please Pull Out and Save Our Bush, Federal Government States It Is Using Every Tool In The Box To Conserve More Of Our Iconic Landscapes; Invites Feedback On Framework, Australia’s safeguard mechanism deal is only a half-win for the Greens and for the climate, Greens will back Labor’s safeguard mechanism without a ban on new coal and gas, Australia will have a carbon price for industry – and it may infuse greater climate action across the economy, Why Western Sydney is feeling the heat from climate change more than the rest of the city, 2022 was a good year for nature in Australia – but three nasty problems remain, Torrents of Antarctic meltwater are slowing the currents that drive our vital ocean ‘overturning’ and threaten its collapse, Indigenous knowledge offers solutions but its use must be based on meaningful collaboration with Indigenous communities, What can’t bees do? Unique study of urban beehives reveals the secrets of several cities around the world, Attention plant killers: new research shows your plants could be silently screaming at you, Is ‘climate anxiety’ a clinical diagnosis? Should it be?, Marsupials and other mammals separately evolved flight many times and we are finally learning how, A rare video of wombats having sex sideways offers a glimpse into the bizarre realm of animal reproduction, I realised the fat-tailed dunnart was under threat; Here’s how I got the species officially listed, Ghost rodents: get ready to fall in love with Australia’s albino rats and mice, New 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, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment Activities, Pittwater Reserves: Histories + Notes + Pictorial Walks, Pittwater Gardens and Environment Groups, Recycle plastic tags

Inbox News Preserving The Stars: Light Pollution And What You Can Do About It, Severe Respiratory Infections Linked To Some Congenital Cardiovascular Defects: UNSW Study, Our new study provides a potential breakthrough on school bullying, NSW Labor unlikely to win majority after flopping on pre-poll votes, What is a paraben and why are so many products advertised as ‘paraben-free’?, TGA review strengthens case for much tighter vape restrictions at the border, Diet And Exercise Programs Alone Won't Tackle Childhood Obesity, Dieting: Brain Amplifies Signal Of Hunger Synapses, Phthalate Alternative May Harm Brain Development and Health, Youth Week 2023, TEXStyle 2023, Art or Sailing during school holidays, School Holidays Movie: Genius, Word Of The Week: Autumn, What are auroras and why do they come in different shapes and colours?, Big-picture thinking: in The Bell of the World Gregory Day listens to the music of common things, The yolk’s on you: a brief history of throwing food and drink on people as protest, Kenzaburō Ōe: a writer of real humanity and the real Japan, This Buddhist sculpture probably won’t ‘rewrite history’ – Western Australia already has a rich Chinese past, Pip Williams shows how World War I transformed women’s lives in a new novel that captures the ‘poetic materiality’ of books, A new study on Australian volcanoes has changed what we know about explosive ‘hotspot’ volcanism, For the first time astronomers have linked a mysterious fast radio burst with gravitational waves, Book Of The Month - April 2023: Poor Man's Orange by Ruth Park, Expanded Access To Subsidised Oral Antiviral Paxlovid And Other COVID-19 Supports, Tasmanian Tapestry (1953), A Higher Dose Of Magnesium Each Day Keeps Dementia At Bay, Applications Now Open For Inaugural $10,000 Military History Prize, How to get more women on bikes? Better biking infrastructure, designed by women, 80% Of Over 50s Hit By Cost-Of-Living, How To Apply For The Age Pension, Older people have eating disorders too – but they’re a largely ignored group, Woolworths is getting into telehealth – but patients need to be treated as more than customers

Food Easter Feast Some insights into the history and some ideas for young and not so young to cook up an Easter Feast this year

Art News: April 2023 - Mural Painting At Mona Vale, Narrabeen Artist Releases New Music: 'Hill',  StreetWork NB + Community NB Art, 2023 Environmental Art & Design Prize + 2023 Creative Open: Call For Artists Now Open, Pittwater Artists & Craftsman Exhibition April 2023, ART Gallery On Palm Beach Award winning Artists works in a gallery run by Artists 

2023 Environmental Art & Design Prize + 2023 Creative Open: Call For Artists Now Open For Your Entries + Ideas - Creative Open entries close April 21 -  Environmental Art & Design Prize entries close Sunday, May 14

Profile of the Week Sally Mayman

On March 1st 2023 retiring Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes announced acclaimed artist and youth mentor Sally Mayman as the 2023 Pittwater Woman of the Year.

Sally is a celebrated artist and photographer, volunteer surf life saver, Youth off the Streets Artist in Residence, and a proud contributor to student wellbeing and excellence at Barrenjoey High School and Avalon Primary School.

Sally has experienced and is experiencing a coalescing of all her inner aims manifesting through the ideas and projects she implements through her practice. Whether it’s one of her dawn strolls to the beach just to capture the candid unposed happening to communicate the essence of time and place and people, or her larger projects, framed to allow those who are struggling to express what is within in a way that is unlocking their very individual and unique and special selves; their inner voice. It's like an architecture for the soul, a way and means of navigating life itself.

This Issue a few insights into a local working Artist who is quietly making a difference in our community.

In recent years news about the development of robotics and robots that speak has been prevalent. However, a Mona Vale Toymaker had a robot 'toy' that could speak long before many of the modern versions of talking dolls and robots came along. Built over a year in his Mona Vale home's workshop, 'Luke the Talking Robot' brought together many of the skills Lewis Pimblett had acquired throughout his life, and which commenced working in his father's Coach making business in Beaufort, Victoria.

Although this history insight has been penned for youngsters who like building things over the school holidays, older readers will certainly remember some of the inventions of Lewis Pimblett or 'Pims toys'

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: April 1, 2023

Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Contents April 1st 2023 Issue: Cleaning Up Pittwater, Island Race: The Results, Two Catherines: A Twisted Scotland Island Tale, Easter Egg Hunt, International Folk Dancing, The Tuesday Discussion Group, Scotland Island Fire Shed Dinner, Scotland Island Café, Newcomers' Welcome, Anzac Day Memorial Service, Feast for Freedom, Seafarers' Shindig, Scotland Island Revive Retreat, Winter Market Day

Vale Robert H Grace – ‘Bob’

May 17, 1935 - March 23, 2023

Beloved uncle of his many nephews and nieces and godson and their families.



It is with sadness we inform the community of the passing of Bob Grace. A feisty, cheerful fighter for our community over many decades.

Bob studied to become a pharmacist. However, Bob failed chemistry twice. He became a roaming salesman while studying law. Fifty years of service to those in need of legal advice opened Bob's eyes to the numerous individuals unable to express their voice, muted by financial or legal complexities. 

Bob served on Warringah Council before ‘getting out of there’ to serve on Pittwater Council— and continued to be a passionate member of the Pittwater community, advocating for the return of Pittwater Council after it was forcibly amalgamated into the organisation we have today. He cited a loss of democracy, environment and a local voice among his reasons.

Since 1998 Robert Grace served as a Councillor in Pittwater. 

A practicing Barrister who was actively involved in Whale Beach Surf Life Saving Club for 43 years, and a member of Palm Beach Golf Club for over 30 years, and fond of Elanora GC, many of us have long seen Bob waving to us as he zipped along in his red MG. A long-term supporter of the Avalon Bulldogs, instrumental in the Victorian Bushfire appeal (this club helped raise $500), Bob spent a lot spare Saturdays and Sundays looking after those he represents.

He epitomised enjoying being in this beautiful place and how it inspires us all to ensure what is Pittwater continues.

A service will be held for Bob at 11.30 am, Wednesday 5 April at St Joseph’s Catholic Church, 21 Lagoon St, Narrabeen. All welcome to attend.

Vale Douglas J  Mulray

December 1 1951 –  March 30 2023

Affectionately known as "Uncle Doug", he grew up in Dee Why and was well-known for his bawdy humour and charismatic larrikinism, with his style of free quips, parodies and 'unbridled naughtiness'.

Mr. Mulray started his early years as a salesman travelling in Europe, before his father, a lawyer, suggested a career in broadcasting.

He began his radio career at 2AD in Armidale, after doing a broadcasting course at the Digamae (Rod Muir's) Radio School. From there he grafted his way south, securing a spot with Central Coast station 2GO Gosford. During the mid-1970s he worked on 3AW Melbourne with a program called "Mulray & The Man".

In the late 1970s, he started a permanent job in Sydney with the newly formed 2JJ (Double Jay), where he built up a sizeable following. In 1982 he was poached by then new station, Triple M. 

Many may remember his "I'm a Punk" / "Doug's Dub" (as The Rude Band) release of the same year.

Doug moved into television, hosting talk show series Beauty and the Beast, as "The Beast''. In 1992 he hosted the infamous the Australia's Funniest Home Videos's spin-off Australia's Naughtiest Home Videos, although it was pulled from broadcast by Nine Network owner Kerry Packer after 34 minutes.

He was inducted into the Commercial Radio Hall of Fame in 2009. Mulray was married to wife Lizzie Muir. 


Doug Mulray, Mrs Mulray (left) and Danielle Barnes at Songs for Soibada, PFOS, 2011

Palm Beach Fish & Chip Shop DA Proposal Update: New Plans Submitted

On March  27 the proponents submitted new plans that look the same as old plans (DA2022/0469) for 1102 Barrenjoey Road Palm Beach. The only change is the over height roof and third storey has been reduced by 40cm, has removed some columns and resubmitted the same design.

At the Meeting of the NBPP held on February 15th 2023 the Northern Beaches Local Planning Panel, on behalf of Northern Beaches Council as the consent authority, deferred further consideration of Application No. DA2022/0469 for construction of shop top housing on land at Lot 11 DP 1207743, 1102 Barrenjoey Road, Palm Beach, to give the applicant the opportunity to submit to Council by Wednesday March 15th 2023 the following:

a) Amended plans that reduce the overall height, bulk and scale including removal of the mansard roof to reduce the massing created by the proposed roof form. Consideration should be given to materiality, upper level set back and the form of the roof to achieve a upper level which is more recessive and an overall compatible development with surrounding development particularly Barrenjoey House.
b) Amended plans to reduce the overly strong vertical influence of the balcony columns and their impact on bulk and scale.
c) Amended plans to redesign the mechanical plant enclosure to minimize the height of the screening and the provision of rooftop landscape screen.

If the requested information was not received by the set date, the Panel may proceed to determine the application on the material before it. The Chair will have the discretion to extend the above date if reasonable grounds are provided by the applicant.

Following receipt of this information, the report states, the Panel will determine the application electronically, unless the Chair determines that a further public meeting is required.

NBPP's REASONS FOR DEFERRAL:
The Panel’s preliminary view is that proposed development is generally acceptable however the Panel is concerned that the proposed roof form creates a top heavy building form due to the expanse of roof and that this could be overcome by a redesign of the proposed mansard roof form.

Additionally the proposed roof form is unnecessarily high to screen the roof plant and adds to the unacceptable bulk of the proposal. The Panel also considered that the vertical columns overly dominated the street appearance and a more acceptable appearance could be achieved through a finer and light detailing outcome.

The Palm Beach Whale Beach Association, the local residents group, and the neighbour immediately adjacent, state the amended DA2022/0469 plans lodged on 26th September 2022 for this site still represent a gross overdevelopment of the site with unacceptable amenity impacts on the Community, the streetscape and importantly on the neighbouring heritage property Barrenjoey House and should be refused. 

The proposal exceeds the 8.5m height limit by 3.0m or 35%, solicitors for the neighbour state.

If residents wish to lodge a submission the council webpage will no longer allow you to do so. You need to email an objection to planningpanels@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au citing DA2022/0469 ASAP. 

 

Plateau Road Gas Fire Incident

On Thursday 30 March, a contractor engaged by Council to undertake stabilisation road works on Plateau Road, Bilgola Plateau struck a gas line, resulting in a fire.

Gas supplier, Jemena, attended the site to shut off the gas supply to the affected area. Fire and Rescue (Hazmat Crews) also attended the scene, managed the incident and extinguished the fire once the gas was shut off.  Jemena is continuing to work on reinstating the gas service to houses in the street.

No one was injured in the incident and no houses were affected.

Council understands the inconvenience to residents and is working with all stakeholders to update residents and resolve the incident.

Incident status
Jemena has now reinstated the gas service to houses on the street.

Plateau Road reopened to limited traffic at approximately 6pm today.  Buses, residents and pedestrians can continue to use this road.

Given the expected wet weather over the weekend, the contractor will have traffic controllers on site and maintenance crews available to address any minor issues.

As a result of the incident and damage to machinery, Council are reviewing options to complete the road resurfacing works and will provide further information soon.

We are working with the contractor to recommence as soon as possible.

 

Photos: FRNSW, Cr. Miranda Korzy

Careel Creek Improvements Funded

Council is pleased to share the news that it’s been successful in receiving approximately $25,000 from the State Government to fund improvements to the riparian vegetation condition of Careel Creek in North Avalon.

Council is also committing funds to the project which will see almost $50,000 invested into the project in partnership with the NSW Department of Planning and Environment - Crown Lands as part of its Crown Reserves Improvement Fund. Careel Creek provides a green corridor and pedestrian way located between North Avalon and the suburb centre, and so engages users with the waterway and natural environment. 

In 2020, public concern about the condition of Careel Creek led Council to undertake sediment and weed removal works to improve its overall condition, including in sections identified as Crown Land with the support of Crown funding. Following the sediment and weed removal, bush regeneration works to improve the native vegetation condition continued.

To support Council works on Crown Land, Council successfully sought matching financial support from the Crown resulting in $24,545 being awarded for the period March 2023 until January 2024.

Careel Creek is exposed to nutrients, sediment and weed propagules captured by the Avalon stormwater system, and these collectively promote aggressive growth of non-native plant species. The vegetation management strategy for the site acknowledges these issues, so bush regeneration efforts will focus on bringing exotic vines under control with a view to eliminate them, plant and nurture canopy tree species, and promote grassy ground cover where weed removal is unproductive and time consuming.

Council works will continue beyond the end date of the grant funding, and further grant funding opportunities will be pursued if or when available.


Ingleside Rural Fire Brigade New Members

Sunday April 2nd, 2023: 
Congratulations to our newest volunteers, Nick, Nick and Matt, who today passed their initial RFS training Course in the rain today. They are now qualified and can participate operationally with the Brigade. Welcome.

 

Photos: Ingleside Rural Fire Brigade

Canopy Keepers: Advocates For Pittwater's Trees

Last Tuesday a bunch of Keepers attended the council chambers in support of member Jane's  address to the councillors, seeking an answer about the status of the long-awaited Urban Tree Canopy Plan for the Northern Beaches. 

Jane was following up Keeper Leigh's address to council last July regarding the plan (which has been promised since way back in 2018).

We are happy to hear it is finished and will be available to us this month.
Fingers crossed!

We were also there in support of Clr. Kristyn Glanville's motion to council to increase compliance development and building control.

Of most interest to us is the apparently frequent incidence of unauthorised clearing of trees and vegetation on both private and public land, and the ongoing non compliance when it comes to tree replacement.

We are happy to hear that this motion was supported, and look forward to a conversation about better ways to protect our precious trees.

More in: From The Council Chamber March 28, 2023 by Pittwater Councillor Miranda Korzy


Photo Canopy Keepers members outside the council chamber at March 28, 2023 meeting. Photo: Canopy Keepers

Dragon Boats DBNSW State Championships 2023 Gold For Bei Loon

Congratulations to Bei Loon's Senior Women’s B team - now officially NSW State Champions!! 2nd were the Pittwater DBRC!!

The 2023 State Championships took place on Sunday 26 March at the Sydney International Regatta Centre, Penrith. CATEGORIES: Junior Mixed, Junior Women, Junior Open. Premier Mixed, Premier Women, Premier Open.

Dragon Boats NSW; 
''What a fun and competitive day of racing at the DBNSW State Championships 2023! After having to cancel last year's Championships due to the weather, it was great to see clubs return on our grandest stage.''

Other results;
Senior A Open 20s -  2nd -  FFB FFB/Northern Beaches
Senior C Open 20s - 1st  Nowra Waterdragons Pittwater-Nowra


Call For Artists: Council's Street Art

Council is currently looking for four new public artworks to add to its growing collection of Street Art. The four sites are:
  1. North Curl Curl Community Centre
  2. Mona Vale Memorial Hall
  3. Mona Vale Village Park
  4. Peninsula Carpark, Rialto Square Manly

The program is a chance to bring artists, residents, businesses, property owners and the community together to create quality new artworks in unexpected places in our town and village centres.

As part of its Street Art program, Council has previously commissioned artists including, David Cragg, Otis Hope Carey, Elliott Routledge, Claire Foxton, Kentaro Yoshida, Bradley Eastman, Brentos, Helen Proctor and Studio Dennis.

The Street Art program is a great place to get your work noticed. 

This project is made possible thanks to a Graffiti Management Grant from the NSW Department of Communities and Justice.


Monika's Doggie Rescue: Pets Of The Week

Dottie 

2yo Jack Russell X Pug


Dottie is a very anxious girl who is finding everything new. She is trying hard to learn and follow some of her doggy pals. She is very affectionate and clingy with people she is comfortable with and has separation anxiety. Dottie is good with other small dogs but needs an experienced handler with the time to introduce her to things slowly. It is unlikely she has been walked on a lead before. She has a short coat and weighs 7.2kg. She is looking for a home based worker with house and garden who has experience with separation anxiety issues. All our dogs come desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DoggieRescue Vet. Her adoption fee is $700.

Cinnamon 

10yo Domestic Medium Haired Cat


Cinnamon is a very gentle affectionate cat. He is sweet and smoochy and he loves to climb onto your shoulders. He came in as a stray via another vet clinic. He had very itchy skin and it has taken time to get it under control at the vets. He also has had a dental with 5 extractions. Cinnamon is looking for a home where people understand he may have to be on a special diet for the rest of him life and potentially some sort of medication. He has a fluffy coat that needs brushing and he weighs 4.5kg. All our cats come desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV/FeLV tested and microchipped. His adoption fee is $220.

To find out more call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email  Monika@DoggieRescue.com.  RON R251000024

Energy Efficient Grants For Local Businesses

From Dr Sophie Scamps - MP for Mackellar
If you're a small to medium business looking to upgrade inefficient equipment, now is the time to consider applying for the Energy Efficiency Grants for Small and Medium Sized Enterprises. 

These grants will support businesses to upgrade equipment to improve their energy efficiency, reduce their energy use and manage energy cost volatility in the long term. 

Visit bit.ly/3FyTPgU for more information on eligibility and how to apply. 

Closes Wednesday 19 April 2023.


Scam Alert: Telstra Impersonation Emails

From ACMA
Have you received an unexpected email from Telstra asking you to complete a form to avoid disruption or cancellation of your service? Be wary – it may be a scam!

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is aware of an emerging email scam that uses Telstra’s branding and advises recipients to complete a KYC (Know Your Customer) compliance form. The email falsely advises that this is required due to a new ACMA policy.

If you’ve received this email do not download or open the attachment or any links in the message.

If you are in any doubt about whether an email you have received from Telstra is genuine, contact Telstra via its publicly available contact details or verified app.

Telstra has more information about how to identify a legitimate email on their website: www.telstra.com.au/cyber-security-and-safety/active-scams

If you believe you are victim of a cybercrime, go to ReportCyber at cyber.gov.au: www.cyber.gov.au/acsc/report

Scammers target everyone. Learn more about how to protect yourself from phone scams on the ACMA website and make a report to Scamwatch


Finding Help To Pay Your Bills

For many it’s getting to the stage where you feel sick to your stomach walking to your letterbox or opening your email. You know there’s going to be yet another bill in there costing you more money that you don’t have. The bills are relentless.  

Take a deep breath. You have some options.  

At the end of the day, the biller just wants to be paid
When facing the constant, never-ending deluge of bills that we all receive, it is very easy to forget the fundamental truth: the biller just wants to be paid. Yes, they want to be paid their money in a timely manner, but as they consolidate their own debts, it is in their interest that you pay your money at a later point than not at all. 

As a person struggling to stay on top of your bills, it is always worth keeping this in mind. As long as a company wants to see its debt paid, there will always be a pathway forward.  

To encourage people to pay their bills on time, it is becoming increasingly common for bills to offer an ‘on-time’ discount. Pay your bills by the due date and you’ll pay less.  

On-time discounts are a strong incentive for many. But, for those struggling to find the money to pay those bills it makes little to no difference. 

Many government agencies and utility companies will offer the ability to apply for a bill extension or instalment plan to pay off a bill. If you know times are tough right now, but that you will have access to more money at a future date, then this can be a good way to defer your debts for a limited time period. You can usually find details about such deferral schemes on the back of the bill you receive or on the website of the biller. 

Different types of bills deliver different relief solutions
For many organisations when they talk about offering relief to people with difficulty meeting bill obligations, they will refer to their relief solutions. Quite often what they are talking about here is putting customers onto an instalment plan to pay off their bill. 

Bill payment relief can take multiple forms. For example, many Queensland local councils can refer citizens to the Independent Rates Relief Tribunal which can provide assistance to people having difficulty meeting basic living expenses. To be eligible for assistance like this, the applicants must reside at the residence where the rates are due and own just the one property, among several restrictions. 

Some companies are better about the level of support they offer than others. An example of a company that offers a really good service to its customers facing financial hardship is energy provider AGL. Ultimately, it is still a company which is doing what it can to see bills paid, but it goes the extra step with advice and options to try to keep ahead of debt. 

It offers the ‘Staying Connected’ program, where consultants assist customers with: 

Tailored plans that match the customer’s situation to put them on a payment plan. 
Advice on payment options, government assistance, and available concessions. 
Connecting customers with free and independent financial counselling and support services. 
Advice on energy efficiency to bring bill prices down. 

Real help you can use
Deferring payments or entering instalment plans is not a long-term solution. After all, it may fix the problem of the current bill, but next month or quarter, another bill will land in your letterbox. While deferring your immediate debts, you need to find a solution that can help you meet your bill obligations into the future. 

The best thing you can do is to call the government-run National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007. It runs Mon-Fri 9:30am - 4:30pm. They will help you with general financial suggestions, but also advise on consumer rights and other related issues. Indigenous Australians might prefer to call the similar Mob Strong Debt Helpline on 1800 808 488.  

You may also be able to access further assistance through charities and other community organisations who offer emergency relief services like: 
  • Food vouchers / supplies. 
  • Assistance with utility bills.
  • Clothing and furniture.
Don't let your health be impacted
Anyone who tries telling you that money doesn’t buy happiness is someone who hasn’t felt the mental stress of a debt spiral.  

People having trouble paying their bills can find that they: 
  • Are constantly stressed and irritable. 
  • Have difficulty sleeping. 
  • Find solace in substance abuse like alcohol and drugs.
  • Cease spending money on healthcare (therapies, medication, and other treatments) to try to pay off debt.
  • Overspend (often using credit cards) to feel better about the stress that they feel. 
Just as you can get free help to combat your debt, there are several services available to help you with your mental health. Beyond Blue is the largest and most well-known organisation that can help with mental health. You can talk to counsellors via their website www.beyondblue.org.au or over the phone 1300 22 4636.  

There are also other services that can help. If you are still in employment, many businesses offer their staff free access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAP). There are also specialised services like MensLine Australia that are focused on assisting with men’s mental health issues. 

Disclaimer
All insights and information provided should be considered general advice for educational purposes only. As we are unaware of your personal circumstances, the information in this article should not be misconstrued as personalised financial advice. We recommend seeking advice from a qualified financial professional before making any major financial decisions. 

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Stalls 

The Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary members are having a stall at Pittwater Place on the first Saturday of every month from 9am to 3pm selling knitting for babies and children, beanies, bedsocks and scarves for oldies, sewing items, craft and jams, raising funds for the rehabilitation and palliative care units.

Volunteers Needed: Red Cross Avalon Shop

Please talk to the people in the shop or telelphone if you can help out each week, for around 4 hours.
Address: Shop 4 & 5 / 48 Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon 2107 NSW; Phone: 02 9918 0952

Volunteers Needed: Meals On Wheels

Meals on Wheels have lost a lot of volunteers in the last few months due to COVID regulations etc. so they are desperate for some new people on the roster. The local service covers all the way from Manly Vale up to Palm Beach, so a run takes around 60-90mins. 

You leave from and return to the warehouse in Bassett Street, Mona Vale.
You don’t need to sign on to permanent shifts, even once a month would help them out greatly.
All drivers need an unrestricted license, must be fully vaccinated and will require a volunteer police check.
If you are able to assist please call Milly on 9457 3900 or email 
NBeachesVolunteer@kmow.org.au and she can give you more info and send you through training paperwork.


JP Public Register

You can find a Justice of the Peace (JP) using the online Public Register. You can search by postcode, name of a JP, day of availability, language spoken and JP registration number. The register lists a JP’s location, availability and telephone number. Please note that JPs are volunteers and may not be available at all times. Click here to access the JP Public Register
NB: There are  3 J.P’s working in Pittwater RSL Sub-Branch office, we work every Monday (10:30am to 15:30)except on public holidays:
  1. Terry Jones J.P.
  2. Robert (Bob) Wood J.P.
  3. Deborah Hendy(Carter) J.P

Rotary Upper Northern Beaches: Get Involved In Something Positive

At Rotary Upper Northern Beaches, we are always welcoming new members. We find that new members bring new ideas, energy and opportunities. There is something for everyone in Rotary and you can apply your skills for the betterment of our community. This can include anything from cooking a BBQ, to managing a fundraising project, to helping with marketing and social media. You can even get the opportunity to serve on our Board.

We have been quite active in the community over recent and coming weeks, including;
      - Pre Christmas community projects, such as the Tree of Joy (Warriewood Square) and Carols In The Park at Village Park, Mona Vale.
      - Australia Day Breakfast at Newport Beach 
      - Annual Art Show at Mona Vale Memorial Hall (24 - 26 February) raised much needed funds for worthy charities
      - An evening of collaboration with other Northern Beaches Rotary Clubs brainstorming strategies for member engagement and growth (21 February)
      - The Bobbo (Bobbin Head Cycle Classic, Sunday 26 March). Another great collaboration with other Rotary Clubs based on the North Shore
      - Our Annual Charity Golf Day (6 April at Monash Country Club)
    
These are just a few examples of our fund raising and community activities. If you are looking for a way to give back to the community, while meeting some great people and having some fun with it, please come and check us out. We meet most Wednesday nights at The Sands Hotel Narrabeen (except for the 2nd Wednesday if each month, which is at Avalon RSL (6pm Dinner in the bistro for 7pm Rotary meeting upstairs at both venues). 

If you would like to know more about Rotary and how you can get involved, please contact us on 02 8005 0711 or email contact@rotaryuppernorthernbeaches.org


Please Slow Down: Wildlife Crossing

Phoebe the Swamp Wallaby weighed less than a kilogram when she was orphaned on the roadside after her mother was hit and killed by a vehicle. Fortunately, Phoebe was uninjured, taken to a local vet and raised and then released by Sydney Wildlife volunteer Jane.

While Phoebe was fortunate, other native birds and animals are not so lucky. So, if you’re returning home after your summer holiday (or just out and about on Australia Day), please slow down - particularly at dawn and dusk and in areas identified with wildlife crossing signs, for your safety and the welfare of our wildlife.

Please contact Sydney Wildlife Rescue on (02) 9413 4300 for advice if you hit a native animal or come across an injured one while driving. It is helpful if you can provide an accurate location or landmark to assist our rescuers who will pouch check marsupials for joeys, so little lives like Phoebe can be saved. 



 
Photo: Phoebe the Swamp Wallaby by Jane
Notice by Sydney Wildlife Rescue

Double Demerits Periods - Easter And Anzac Day 2023

  • Easter: 6 April to 10 April 2023 
  • Anzac Day: 21 April to 25 April 2023* 
*On Monday 24 April 2023, school zones will be in operation. Drivers are reminded additional penalties can apply for certain offences committed in school zones.

We advise motorists that double demerits are in place in NSW for 5 days over the Easter long weekend from Thursday, 6 April until Monday, 10 April inclusive.

Double demerit periods typically fall during holiday periods or over long weekends. They run from midnight on the start date to midnight on the finish date and are enforced by police. 

The next double demerit period will follow later in April for the ANZAC Day public holiday. ANZAC Day falls on Tuesday, 25 April and double demerits will be in place over the weekend leading up to ANZAC Day from Friday, 21 April though to the end of Tuesday, 25 April. 

The demerit point system provides an incentive for drivers to improve their driving behaviour, obey road rules and comply with NSW traffic laws. The double demerit point scheme applies for the following types of offences:
  • Speeding
  • Illegal use of mobile phones
  • Not wearing a seatbelt
  • Riding without a helmet
According to the RMS website, any active demerits points you've accrued will remain on your record for a total of 3 years and 4 months.


Aussies Wrap Will Run Issue 579

With so much to run on Super Sunday, April 2nd, and so many results coming in to compile into age divisions and sports areas, the Aussies 2023 'wrap' has been held over until the next Issue.

On Saturday April 1st Newport’s Blake Drysdale won the beach flags finals at the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships.

Blake claimed his fourth Australian title, his last win was back in 2019. 

“The first title was awesome but the fourth one feels just as special. They just get better, and better every time…I’m so happy.

“There wasn’t much in it overall, there was a stack of Japanese competitors as well which made it really tough. I just knew I had to switch it on in the last couple to get the job done,” said Drysdale. the prestigious Open crowns.

There have been great results in all divisions and all clubs across our area - you would be hard pressed to find a sport or age division that does not have a SLS SNB Branch member competing.

Surf Boat athletes from the SLS SNB Branch are racing today, April 2nd 2023 in Perth. Branch crews involved in Quarters, Semis and onwards today run below. Many thanks to Alex Salier Wymer for compiling the list.

Congratulations on making the Top 12/16 in the country in your divisions!

Open Men:
Queenscliff A Rollers 🔴🔵
South Curl Curl Death Riders 🔵🟡⚪️

Open Women:
South Curl Curl Shakers 🔵🟡⚪️
Collaroy Giants 🔴
Palm Beach Paddlers 🟢

Reserve Men:
Palm Beach Padlocks 🟢
Avalon Beach Pinkies 🟢🔴⚪️

Reserve Women:
Palm Beach Prickles 🟢
Palm Beach Pterodactyls 🟢

U23 Men:
Palm Beach Plumbers 🟢
Queenscliff New Direction 🔴🔵
South Curl Curl Underdogs 🔵 🟡⚪️
South Curl Curl Sneaky Nuts 🔵🟡⚪️

U23 Women:
Collaroy Crusaders 🔴
South Curl Curl Milk 🔵🟡⚪️
Palm Beach Peastmode 🟢

U19 Men:
Palm Beach Penitokos 🟢
South Curl Curl Burly 🔵🟡⚪️
Palm Beach Parmigianas 🟢
South Curl Curl Whompa 🔵🟡⚪️

U19 Women:
Collaroy Cobras 🔴
Long Reef Castaways ⚪️🔵
Newport Stingers 🟡🟣
Freshwater Freshie Fenderbenders ⚪️🟣
North Curl Curl Venom 🟢🟡

Autumn School Holidays Pittwater Online News Publication Schedule

Please be advised that Issue 578 will be published Sunday April 2nd and that Issue 579 will be published Sunday April 16th.

We hope everyone has a peaceful Easter and enjoys the Autumn school holidays break. Notices and events are welcome for Issue 579. The office will reopne Tuesday April 11.

Thank you very much.


Anzac Day In Pittwater: 2023 Services

Narrabeen RSL Sub-Branch
Sunday April 23: 11am
Muster at Narrabeen SLSC opposite Furlough House on Ocean streets, March to Cenotaph will commence at 11:30am. March will be led by the Warringah Pipe Band.Commemorative Service and wreath laying will take place at Narrabeen Cenotaph, corner of Ocean and Pittwater roads.

Pittwater RSL, Mona Vale
Anzac Day Dawn Service at 5:30 am at lower cenotaph. Please be seated 10 minutes prior to commencement. In the event of Rain the Service will take place inside the RSL Club. Breakfast within the club afterwards.

Church Point
Anzac Day Memorial Service Tuesday, 25 April, 10.45 am Thomas Stephens Reserve
Our traditional ANZAC Day service will be held at Thomas Stephens Reserve, Church Point on Tuesday, 25 April, commencing 10.45 am. The guest speaker will be announced shortly.  

Newport
5.30 am Anzac Day  Dawn Service at Newport Cenotaph in Trafalgar Park
All Welcome.

Avalon Beach RSL Cenotaph
5.30am: Anzac Day Dawn Service - breakfast within club afterwards
11:00am March and Service. Please muster outside the Avalon Public School on Old Barrenjoey Road at 10.30 am for a 10:45 am start.

Whale Beach Dawn Service: Anzac Day
Anzac Day Tuesday, 25 April 2023 06:00-07:00
by Palm Beach RSL Veterans Ocean Therapy
ANZAC Dawn Service at Whale Beach, breakfast at the Whale Beach Surf Club deck will be available immediately afterward.

Palm Beach RSL: Anzac Day 2023
Anzac Day 11am Service - Muster at northernmost corner of Iluka and Barrenjoey Roads at 10:45 am for March to outside the club for an 11am Commemorative Service at the Palm Beach RSL Cenotaph.
Service Members Luncheon afterwards.


NSW SES Warringah/ Pittwater Unit News

The Warringah/ Pittwater Unit  are excited to have a group of new recruits joining the Unit for 2023 intake. They have been enthusiastic and focused on the orientation activities and team building exercises. As SES is a volunteer organisation, it is critical to have new members to enrich the experiences and skills of the existing members. 

NSW SES Warringah/ Pittwater Unit  extends their welcome to all our new recruits. 


Narrabeen Sharks JRLFC: Celebrating 90 Years Of The Narrabeen Sharks  

As the story goes, the Narrabeen Sharks JRLFC had its humble beginnings on March 7, 1932 in Jack McLean’s barber shop.   And so the rest is history. 

Recount the incredible stories, the memories, the pictures, and the spirit of this legendary club in a limited edition hardcover book.  

Hop on to our website and order your copy today.  Delivery or pick up is coming after Easter: https://narrabeensharks.com.au/shop/

We’ll also be hosting a book launch at the commencement of the A-Grade season – stay tuned for details.


Newport Breakers Rugby Club First Home Game For 2023

Rugby gets underway for Season 2023 this weekend. The Newport Breakers Rugby Club have the 1st Round Bye, before kicking off defence of the Barraclough Cup vs Briars at Porters on Saturday 15th April. 

Make sure you’re at Porters in 2 weeks time!

Breaker! Breaker! Breaker!

Greendale Creek Flood Study

Northern Beaches Council is responsible for the identification of flood prone land in the Local Government Area (LGA).  Council have prepared the draft Greendale Creek Flood Study that outlines how flood waters move through the Greendale Creek catchment and flow down to Curl Curl Lagoon.

The study area includes parts of the suburbs of Beacon Hill, Brookvale, Curl Curl, Freshwater and North Curl Curl. The catchment is affected by flooding due to rainfall runoff, and in the lower parts from rising lagoon flood waters. The results of the study will update the flood information currently used by Council for planning.

Council appreciates there is a lot of technical information contained in the draft study and invite you to come along to talk to one of their flood specialists to understand what this might mean for you. Click here to make a booking or call the Floodplain Planning Team on 1300 434 434 (during business hours). Bookings are essential.

Council have presented the draft study in different ways on this page, including a study area map, a breakdown of the sections, and the full document. They also encourage you to view the Frequently asked questions.

You can provide feedback on the draft study by:

completing the submission form here
writing to marked ‘Draft Greendale Creek Flood Study', Northern Beaches Council, PO Box 82 Manly NSW 1655.

Submissions close Sunday 7 May 2023.

In Tune With Tony B

In Tune is a radio programme about our local community, culture and home-grown music, hosted by TonyB.
 
Each week, Tony plays great local music and he chats with guests from local community causes and charities, about how they make a difference.

In his next programme on Friday 7th April 2023, we hear from Lucy Hobgood-Brown of Handup Congo. Lucy will update us on the inspirational work she is doing to improve the lives of people living in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Micro finance loans, emergency medicine education and helping pygmies harvest honey, sustainably....and more.

Special thanks to Ian Stuart of Rotary Matters, for bringing us this interview.

The programme will also feature a great line up of predominantly home-grown music.
 
Radio Northern Beaches
Fridays at 6pm
FM 88.7 or 90.3
Or live stream at https://www.rnb.org.au
Previous programmes, on demand at https://www.mixcloud.com/InTuneWithTonyB
If you would like to chat with Tony on air about your community cause or your music, please feel free to message the Facebook page  In Tune - Radio Programme | Facebook and feel free to like and share the page.

Letters To The Editor

Letters should preferably be 150 to 175 words, but considering the magazines inability to word limit itself - that remains optional.
Letters must include the writer's address and phone number and 'permission to publish'.
Letters should not contain attachments - these will be requested if required to illustrate content/subject.
Letters should be exclusive to Pittwater Online News.

The editor's prerogative includes editing letters for length, grammar or legal reasons, among other considerations. 

Conservation Zones Review And Technical Studies Update

We are writing to let you know that the following reports are available on our project website:
There are three reports:
  1. Snapshot of the consultation report – A quick overview of the issues raised in the submissions and the engagement approach.
  2. Consultation Report – A complete summary of the key issues raised in the submissions and Council’s response.
  3. Submissions – All of the submissions received during the consultation.
What are we doing now?
  • We are currently investigating changes to the methodology that could address concerns raised by the community.
  • We are meeting with the Department of Planning and Environment to discuss the Review, the submissions received, and possible changes. This is important because the Department will have the final say about any proposed zoning changes resulting from the Review.
  • We will be undertaking site inspections in certain circumstances where a dispute remains about the mapping of criteria used in the Conservation Zones Review methodology. We will be engaging appropriate consultants to assist with these inspections, which we expect will commence in May 2023. We will contact relevant landowners about any proposed site inspections.
The next steps will involve: 
  • Finalising changes to the methodology of the Review, in conjunction with the Department of Planning and Environment and relevant state agencies.
  • Undertaking site inspections with relevant landowners to resolve remaining mapping disputes.
  • Preparing a Planning Proposal for the new Northern Beaches Local Environmental Plan (LEP) which incorporates the outcomes from this work to be considered by Council and subsequent public exhibition and community feedback in 2023/2024.
Thank you for your continued interest in this project. If you require any assistance, please contact:
Strategic and Place Planning team
Ph: 1300 434 434 

Winter Market Day: Scotland Island - Catherine Park

Sunday 25 June, 10 - 1 pm: Calling all makers, artists and entrepreneurs! 
 
Do you have something you’d like to sell at a market stall at the June island café? It could be artwork, pottery, clothes, candles, books or... well, pretty much anything. 
 
Tables are $20. To book, please email floydcbg@ozemail.com.au


Rotary Upper Northern Beaches: Supporting The Bobbo For Lifeline 

The Bobbin Head Cycle Classic, known as 'The Bobbo', is a popular annual cycling event, organised by the Rotary Club of Turramurra in collaboration with other Rotary Clubs. This year on Sunday 26 March, it was a great success and raised $100k for Lifeline and other worthy charities which support and carry out programs that benefit children and families in our community. These charities work to improve the mental health and wellbeing of people across Australia and these funds will make a huge impact on their efforts.
 
The Bobbo is a challenging ride, covering a distance of about 105km, starting and finishing at the Karuah Oval in Turramurra. Cyclists of all abilities are welcome and can choose to ride the 105km course, or join a shorter ride of 57km.


 
The event was well-attended, with more than 1440 cyclists participating, although The Bobbo is not just an event for cyclists. It is also a great opportunity for the community to come together for a good cause. Many locals came out to cheer on the participants, and volunteers served up delicious BBQs throughout the event. The Rotary Clubs were proud to partner with the event, providing volunteers and raising money through various fundraising activities. 
 
The Bobbo provides a great chance to give back to society, enjoy a scenic cycling route, and have some fun with the community. With such a great impact on mental health and community, The Bobbo is definitely an event to keep an eye on for next year. 
 
Rotary Upper Northern Beaches proudly supported the event with27 volunteers, who were responsible for marshalling, BBQing, and looking after the wellbeing of both cyclists and spectators.
 
If you would like to know more about Rotary and how you can get involved, please contact us on 02 8005 0711 or email contact@rotaryuppernorthernbeaches.org

Rig Recycle: Fishing Gear Items

Are you tired of seeing fishing gear and packaging waste end up in landfill? (or killing local seabirds and turtles?)
Rig Recycle is the first Australian initiative that collects recreational fishing and packaging items and diverts them from landfill through a repair, reuse and recycle framework.

In partnership with Recycle Mate, they've made it even easier to recycle your fishing gear waste! Simply search for your nearest Rig Recycle bin on their app. 

Don't have one at your local fishing store? Let them know and they will reach out to them themselves.♻️
Visit their website for more information. Visit: www.rigrecycle.org
More in this Issue's Aquatics Feature.


Report Hate Crimes

NSW Police Force: 
If you are subjected to hate on social media or online you should keep evidence by taking screen shots of the abuse including usernames, URLs and any other relevant information. 

You can report the abuse directly to the platform and report in person at any Police Station. 

If you witness a hate incident or hate crime but are not the victim, you can still make a report to the NSW Police.

In an Emergency call Triple Zero (000). If not urgent, you can report online at crimestoppers.com.au or call 1800 333 000 or report in person at any Police Station. 

Mona Vale Residents Association

Mona Vale Residents Association is a community group encouraging involvement on important matters within the Mona Vale area.



Become A Volunteer Radio Operator: MRNSW

Are you looking for a new challenge? With the busy summer boating season coming up Marine Rescue NSW units up and down the coast want to hear from you! And if you live in Sydney, our State Communications Centre in Belrose is especially keen to hear from you, just drop a line to: base.sydney@marinerescuensw.com.au 

Prior radio and boating experience is not required, and as a Radio Operator you'll play a vital role in helping to keep our waterways safer. If you want to take the plunge and join a dedicated volunteer team helping to save lives on our waterways, then go here for more information: 
www.marinerescuensw.com.au/become-a-volunteer/ or contact your local Marine Rescue NSW unit directly.


 

Click on logo above to visit their website.

Pittwater Community Groups: 


Sports (plus Social Members)

Gardens and Environment

Rural Fire Brigades
Services - Community Organisations

Arts and Social

Community News

Community News Pages list articles that ran each week as well as reports run in other pages: Inbox and Environment News archives etc.

March 2013  April 2013 May 2013  June 2013 July 2013 August 2013 September 2013 October 2013 November 2013  December 2013

January 2014 February 2014  March 2014  April 2014  May 2014 June 2014  July 2014  August 2014  September 2014 October 2014  November 2014  December 2014 

January 2015  February 2015 March 2015  April 2015 May 2015  June 2015  July 2015  August 2015  September 2015  October 2015 November 2015  December 2015 

January 2016  February 2016 March 2016 April 2016 May 2016 June 2016 July 2016  August 2016 September 2016 October 2016  November 2016  December 2016  

January 2017  February 2017  March 2017 April 2017 May 2017 June 2017 July 2017  August 2017 September 2017 October 2017  November 2017  December 2017 

January 2018  February 2018 March 2018  April 2018  May 2018  June 2018  July 2018 August 2018 September 2018 October 2018 November 2018  December 2018

January 2019  February 2019  March 2019  April 2019 May 2019  June 2019  July 2019  August 2019  September 2019  October 2019  November 2019   December 2019 

January 2020 February 2020 March 2020  April 2020 May 2020  June 2020  July 2020  August 2020  September 2020  October 2020  November 2020  December 2020

January 2021  February 2021  March 2021  April 2021  May 2021  June 2021  July 2021  August 2021  September 2021  October 2021  November 2021  December 2021

January 2022  February 2022  March 2022  April 2022  May 2022  June 2022  July 2022 August 2022  September 2022  October 2022  November 2022  December 2022

January 2023  February 2023  March 2023

Speed Humps On McCarrs Creek Rd: Please Share Wildlife Data 

Local wildlife rescuers are asking all members of the public to report any roadkill on McCarrs Ck Rd or any other road in the NB (Wakehurst Parkway or Mona Vale Road for instance) on www.wildlifemapping.org

It records the GPS position, date, sex, species. Photos can be added as they help in identification
The data is then forwarded to OEH and Transport NSW as it can help establish the best places to place  mitigation. Thanking you all in advance for your help with this. There is so much wildlife on the move in our area at present due to various pressures. Although we have had pictures sent to us, many of these have no date or location. There is a database that volunteers maintain but this needs three pieces of information:
  1. The position via GPS or road and suburb
  2. The date
  3. The animal
The details can be entered into the database directly by you at: www.wildlifemapping.org

Report Fox Sightings

Fox sightings, signs of fox activity, den locations and attacks on native or domestic animals can be reported into FoxScan. FoxScan is a free resource for residents, community groups, local Councils, and other land managers to record and report fox sightings and control activities. 

Council's Invasive species Team receives an alert when an entry is made into FoxScan. The information in FoxScan will assist with planning fox control activities and to notify the community when and where foxes are active.