Community News: April 2025

Week Three April 2025 (April 14 - 27)

Front Page Issue 641

Week Three April 2025 (April 14 - 27)

Pictures Anzac Day in Pittwater: 2025

Audit Office of NSW Report on Northern Beaches Hospital Released

Lifesaving Future in Good Hands with 2025 Junior Lifesavers of the Year - Congratulations to Max of Warriewood SLSC!

SLSA Masters Legends 2025 - Congratulations Ted Smithies of Newport SLSC

Aquatics Tragic Easter Long Weekend on NSW Coastline As flags come down for 2024-2025 Patrol Season

From the Council Chamber - meeting April 15, 2025 by Pittwater Greens councillor Miranda Korzy

People's Choice Winning Paintings from Northern Beaches Art Society Autumn Exhibition 2025

Park Bench Philosophers Australian Vehicle-to-Grid Technology: tried, tested, network ready​!

NSW Government launches updated strategy to support veterans and their families

Australia’s First Wildlife Specialist Teaching Hospital at Taronga

Currently flowering: Swamp Mahogany - Eucalyptus Robusta

Narrabeen's RSL ANZAC Village Renewal Project: Feedback Invited - History Insights Sought

DIY Ideas Pittwater's Noxious Weeds: A Great Time To Get Outdoors, Pull Them Out, Replace With Native Plants

Study Confirms Brookvale is an Urban Hot Spot in Need of Trees: Brookvale Structure Plan

Environment Narrabeen Lagoon Reflections, Weeds choking Warriewood Wetlands, Spotted: 3 Black Cockatoos winging their way to Bangalley Headland, Currently flowering: Swamp Mahogany - Eucalyptus Robusta, NSW Government’s call to action on illegal tree clearing, Crackdown on illegal tree clearing!: have your say until June 4, These 3 climate misinformation campaigns are operating during the election run-up; Here’s how to spot them, What would change your mind about climate change? We asked 5,000 Australians – here’s what they told us, Sniping koalas from helicopters: here’s what’s wrong with Victoria’s unprecedented cull, Alleged breach of Greater Glider protections in Brother State Forest (+New logging rules in NSW put the greater glider closer to extinction. When will we start protecting these amazing animals?: ran February 14, 2024), EPA states it requires surface and groundwater monitoring at Woodlawn Eco Precinct, Pet dogs do real environmental damage; NSW Pet Laws (dog and cat regulations) go under the microscope - Have your say until May 4, Superb fairy-wrens’ songs hold clues to their personalities; new study finds, Pittwater Natural Heritage Association - Autumn 2025 Newsletter, Have your say on the NSW Freshwater Fish Stocking Plan: closes April 30, The secret nightlife of an urban woodland - Saving our Species: Field Notes, Fossil fuel companies ‘poisoned the well’ of public debate with climate disinformation; Here’s how Australia can break free, Allowing forests to regenerate is a great way to restore habitat, How a new ‘Fishheart’ project is combining science, community and Indigenous art to restore life in the Baaka-Darling River, Australian honeybees are under attack by mites and beetles; Here’s how to keep your backyard hive safe, Most bees nest in the ground; Offering rocks and gravel is a simple way to help them thrive, How petrostates succeeded in watering down the world’s plan to cut shipping emissions, Lawsuits in the US seeking to address climate change have promise but face uncertain future, Wide variety of old-growth ecosystems across the US makes their conservation a complex challenge, Human connections to seagrass meadows date back 180,000 years, ‘Heavy metals’ contaminate 17% of the world’s croplands, A century after its discovery, scientists capture first confirmed footage of a colossal squid in the deep, ‘They are like my children’: research reveals 4 types of indoor plant owners. Which one are you?, Why healthy eating may be the best way to reduce food waste, Toxic chemical pollution continues on Isle of Man as government defends Unesco conservation status, Pollution scientist talks to freshwater ecologist who warned of Isle of Man toxic silt dumps, Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 Recycling Batteries: at Mona Vale + Avalon Beach, ‘1080 pest management’, Reporting Dogs Offleash - Dog Attacks to Council, Plastic Bread Ties For Wheelchairs, Volunteers for Barrenjoey Lighthouse Tours needed, Stay Safe From Mosquitoes, Mountain Bike Incidents On Public Land, Report fox sightings, marine wildlife rescue group on the Central Coast, Watch out - shorebirds about, Possums In Your Roof?: do the right thing, Aviaries + Possum Release Sites Needed, Bushcare in Pittwater: where + when, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment Activities, Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations in Pittwater, Ringtail Posses, Are turtles not safe in the estuary?, Pittwater Reserves: histories + Walks, Birds, + 

Inbox News Focusing on a child’s strengths can transform assessments – and help them thrive after an ADHD or autism diagnosis, Pope Francis has died, aged 88. These were his greatest reforms – and controversies, Three ways Pope Francis influenced the global climate movement, Tiny dips in sea level reveal flow of climate-regulating underwater waterfalls, Port of Darwin’s struggling Chinese leaseholder may welcome an Australian buy-out, A landmark ruling will tackle the gender pay gap for thousands of workers, A survey of Australian uni students suggests more than half are worried about food or don’t have enough to eat, 200 years ago France extorted Haiti in one of history’s greatest heists – and Haitians want reparations, Google loses online ad monopoly case. But it’s just one of many antitrust battles against big tech, Public toilets could be the jewels in our cities’ crowns – if only governments would listen, SLSA Masters Legends 2025: Congratulations Ted Smithies of Newport SLSC, 1 in 3 voters aged 60+: Seniors call to candidates ahead of election, Alleviating cost of living pressures key to older Australians’ vote: new polling - COTA, Artefacts reveal the courage and sacrifice 110 years on from Gallipoli, Should we halve the super drawdown rate?: National Seniors, New study finds no evidence technology causes ‘digital dementia’ in older people, Tremors, seizures and paralysis: this brain disorder is more common than multiple sclerosis – but often goes undiagnosed, A weird phrase is plaguing scientific papers – and we traced it back to a glitch in AI training data, Think your specialist is expensive? Look at what others are paying, Currently flowering: Swamp Mahogany - Eucalyptus Robusta, nSW Government’s call to action on illegal tree clearing: have your say, The secret nightlife of an urban woodland - Saving our Species: Field Notes, Are you thinking about doing an SBAT?, Opportunities: New free TAFE courses to deliver Australia’s manufacturing workforce + Palm Beach Band Comp., Council's 2025 Environmental Art & Design Prize - Entries open now, Word Of The Week: avoirdupois, Fossil teeth show extinct giant kangaroos spent their lives close to home – and perished when the climate changed, Feeling mad? New research suggests mindfulness could help manage anger and aggression, Scientists claim to have found evidence of alien life. But ‘biosignatures’ might hide more than they reveal, When rock music met ancient archeology: the enduring power of Pink Floyd Live at Pompeii, Why can’t I keep still after intense exercise?, ‘The pay is not worth the stress’: research finds 10% of lawyers plan to quit within a year, Why do scientists want to spend billions on a 70-year project in an enormous tunnel under the Swiss Alps?, Yoko Ono, ‘the first female punk rocker’, is an artist of benevolent magic, ‘We get bucketloads of homework’: young people speak about what it’s like to start high school, Want straighter teeth or a gap between? Don’t believe TikTok – filing them isn’t the answer, Once a bestseller, now forgotten – why William by E.H. Young deserves a revisit, One to One: John & Yoko – documentary shows how Lennon and Ono shaped protest music, pop culture and each other,

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Week Two April 2025 (April 7 - 13)

Profile of the Week The Australian Surf Life Saving Championships 2025: Finals Results + 'Wrap' 

History  Brown's Bay Public Wharf, on McCarrs Creek, Church Point: Some History

Happy Dance Time! Narrabeen Sports High School to receive new Performing Arts Hall as part of major upgrade

Electric Day 1 of 2025 Australian Boardriders Battle Grand Final - NASA, North Steyne into Quarterfinal rounds

Dr Scamps’ plan to protect Pittwater: Nomination For Heritage Listing

Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race 2025: The Race reports by Di Pearson

Mackellar - Warringah 2025 Candidates by Ballot draw + Record Voters this Election + Community Fed up with Juvenile behaviour during election campaigns + How Preferential Voting works: YOU Determine which way your vote flows

Healthscope Announces it Wants to Exit Northern Beaches Hospital, Return it to the Government

Manly to Barrenjoey Peninsula Tops Uptake of NSW Government's Household Battery Incentive + Mackellar MP's Residential Batteries Policy Adopted by Labor + Warringah MP Steggall's Comment + Labor’s home battery plan must be properly targeted to be fair

Our 1 billion pet dogs do real environmental damage; NSW Pet Laws (dog and cat regulations) go under the microscope - Have your say until May 4

ABSLSC 100th Anniversary Monthly Reflections in the Waves - April by Roger Sayers OAM

Aquatics: Risk of rip current deaths highest among young men at unpatrolled beaches: SLSA - UNSW's New Research

Cirque Du Joy – Reset the Dial: The Women’s Resilience Centre’s Most Critical Fundraising Event

Fewer rescues, smarter boaters: Marine Rescue NSW sees drop in March 2025 missions - Cottage Point tops local unit rescues

Partnership Expands Surf Lifesaving NSW's Drone Operations Out of Sight

Park Bench Philosophers: Roderic Quinn's Poems and Prose For Manly, Beacon Hill, Dee Why and Narrabeen - some Autumn School Holidays inspiration to enjoy our great outdoors

Mixed Results: Latest Telco Customer Complaint Performance Rankings from ACMA

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Week One April 2025 (March 31 - April 6)

NB: The 2025 Australian Surf Life Saving Championships 'wrap' will run Sunday April 13 

Profile of the Week: Richard Jeffery Is Working to Reinstall the North Bilgola Lookout Direction Indicator: photos of Surface or original Casting plans needed

History: Methodist Church at Church Point: The Chapel the Point is Named after - Some History 

Bilgola Big Winner in 2024-25 NSW Government's Surf Club Facilities Grants: Over 1.3 Million allocated to local clubs

Australian Boardriders Battle 2025 Grand Final: Seven Local Clubs Have Qualified - runs next weekend 12-13 April and will be broadcast LIVE

Pictures: McCarrs Creek Public Jetty, Brown's Bay Public Jetty, Rostrevor Reserve, Cargo Wharf, Church Point Public Wharf: a few pictures from the Site Investigations for Pittwater Public Wharves History series 2025

Aquatics: It’s on for young and old in Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race by Di Pearson

Bonnie Harvey announced as Greens Candidate for Warringah 2025

Marine Rescue NSW to host International Maritime Rescue Federation events in August

Food: The Waterfront Café & General Store: Lunch at 'On The Deck'

Park Bench Philosophers: Good news beach lovers: our research found 39% less plastic waste around Australian coastal cities than a decade ago - CSIRO

DIY Ideas: BOM's Autumn 2025 Forecast Makes this Season Great for Garden Care + What to Plant Now

2025 Federal Election Questions for Candidates: Send yours in now + Enrolment details (closes April 7) + Postal Votes + Key Dates from the AEC

ANZAC Day 2025 Commemoration Services: when and where

Council Review of Alcohol Free Zones: Feedback closes April 27 2025 - changes for some areas proposed

Digital Parking permits coming for across the Peninsula + CellOPark Dispute 2024-2025 + NSW Government's Ticketless Parking Reforms and Consultation on Equal Access to Beach Parking Permits (open until April 17 2025)

NSW Pet Laws (dog and cat regulations) go under the microscope - Have your say until May 4

Scamps' Call for Residential Battery Subsidies May Ease Council's EV-Charging Stations Dilemma + Solar for Apartment Residents incentive open until December 31 + EV and Hybrid vehicle data for our area by postcode + NSW Inquiry into Infrastructure for electric and alternative energy source vehicles in NSW (closing date for submissions is Friday 2 May 2025) + ‘A house battery you can drive around’: how a handful of Australians are selling power from their cars back to the grid 

Minns Government Announces 'Joe's Law' to End Private-Public Hospital Model As Inquiry into Safety and Quality of Services at Northern Beach Hospital Opens for Submissions Submissions close May 20 2025

Monika's Doggie Rescue: 3 x Chihuahua Pup Litters need ongoing care

Boaters reminded not to get complacent on the water: MRNSW's February 2025 Rescues - Boating Season Closes Anzac Day 2025

Profile of the Week Mackellar 2025 Candidates

This Saturday, May 3rd 2025, the 2025 Australian Election will be held. If people can’t vote on election day then they may vote at early voting centres now open across the Mackellar Electorate until Friday May 2nd.

Time to cast your Ballot

Your closest early voting centres in Mackellar are:

Avalon Recreation Centre - Activity Room 4, Level 1, 59A Old Barrenjoey Rd, Avalon Beach

Bilarong Community Hall - Bilarong Reserve, Wakehurst Pkwy, North Narrabeen

Terrey Hills Community Centre - Yulong Ave, Terrey Hills

Opening hours for all three centres are: 

Mon 28 Apr – Thu 1 May: 8:30 am–5:30 pm

Fri 2 May: 8:30 am–6 pm

For those voting on Saturday May 3rd you can find your nearest polling booth on the AEC's Where To Vote tool.

Although the AEC states over one million people have cast their ballots early, with over 18 million people voting this election, there are likely to be queues at some centres a certain times across the day. 

Postal Votes

The AEC is asking anyone who needs a postal vote, but has not yet applied, to do so ASAP. The latest urging from the AEC follows earlier advice for people to plan their vote early and, if needed, apply for a postal vote early in the election period.

''Australia has some of the best in-person voting options in the world. If a voter can turn up to a voting centre, then that is what they must do.'' the AEC states

While the legislated deadline for postal vote applications is this Wednesday 30 April, anyone who leaves it until the final week risks their postal vote pack not arriving in time.

People can apply for a postal vote on the AEC website.

As of COB on March 22, around 2.39m people had applied for a postal vote with 2.2m postal vote packs distributed so far.

This Issue the Mackellar 2025 Candidates responses to YOUR questions.


    This year's ANZAC Day Commemoration Services marked the 110th year of Australians landing at Gallipoli and provided residents with an opportunity to reflect on the legacy of courage and sacrifice that shaped our nation.

    One resident who returned here to serve others in any capacity he could for all of his days and even after he passed away on October 29th, 1970, was Carl Gow of the Gow-Gonsalves boatshed at Palm Beach.

    Carl was a founding member of the Palm Beach RSL Club, which held services at Whale Beach (dawn) and at the Palm Beach RSL cenotaph (11am) again this year.

    Carl served at Gallipoli and in France during WWI, returning an honorary Captain to Palm Beach to set up a store with fellow veteran Reginald Augustus Howlett, as well as work as a fisherman, boat hire shed and would set out to rescue others from the Gow's - Gonsalves boatshed, still in existence just north of the Palm Beach ferry wharf. In fact, the first 'Palm Beach RSL' commenced in the Gow-Gonsalves shed itself.

    Born Carl W J Beeston Gow at Newcastle in March 1889, the youngest son of Robert and Mary, his father was of the Pilot station at Newcastle. Carl was from a family whose contributions to saving lives in Australia, either as engineers on vessels, as Pilot Station attendees, as Lightkeepers at NSW Lighthouses, and as men who went out in their vessels to save others, could fill volumes.

    Palm Beach is still littered with traces of Carl; the first Palm Beach Lands Company jetty became Gow’s wharf and the boatshed, now of the Gonsalves family, remains a thriving business, Gow’s, his elder brother David Robert William and his father Robert, worked as a relieving and second  lighthouse keeper at Barrenjoey Lighthouse from 1912 to 1919. While the ship’s wheel from the Helen B Stirling, once in the foyer of Club Palm Beach (Palm Beach RSL), was a gift from Carl Gow.

    Mr. Gow was also among the Palm Beach residents who worked to establish the Palm Beach War Memorial Kindergarten.

    This Issue a few insights into a true Palm Beach gentleman.

    Pittwater Offshore Newsletter:

    April 1 2025

    The Coochie Bus: Tales of Two Islands; 'Wedding Island' Fiasco; Supporting Your Island Firies; Island Café notice; Robertson Boulevard Wall Party; Moon Dance: The Wall; Woody Point AGM; Feast for Freedom; Easter Egg Hunt; Anzac Day Memorial Service; International Folk Dancing; Wedding Island; Native plants for sale

    Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

    To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

    Young and old urged to get vaccinated before challenging winter season

    April 23, 2025
    The NSW Government is today launching its official winter vaccines campaign ahead of the peak respiratory virus season this winter.

    International experience indicates the possibility of a higher than usual influenza activity season this year.

    To ensure people have the essential services they rely on, the Minns Labor Government has worked to get the supply of vaccines out to doctors and pharmacists.

    Vaccination rates for vulnerable groups have been declining nationally as well as globally.

    In NSW, the influenza vaccine rate for six-month to five-year-olds has declined from 28.3 per cent in 2023 to 25 per cent in 2024, and for over 65s it was down from 62 per cent in 2023 to 60 per cent in 2024.

    Influenza vaccine is free under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for:
    • children aged 6 months to less than 5 years
    • people aged 65 years and older
    • aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and older
    • pregnant women
    • those with serious health conditions such as diabetes, cancer, immune disorders, obesity, severe asthma, kidney, heart, lung or liver disease.
    People can access flu vaccinations through their pharmacist or local GP.

    Last month, the NSW Government announced an investment of $16.6 million to ensure all newborns in NSW can be protected from serious illness from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

    It means newborns can either receive free protection from RSV through maternal vaccination or immunisation before they leave the hospital.

    The NSW Government has invested $15 million to improve vaccine access to vulnerable communities across NSW such as culturally and linguistically diverse groups.

    Acting Premier of New South Wales Prue Car said:

    “Today we are urging people across NSW to top up their yearly vaccinations ahead of the worst of the winter flu season.

    “Whether you’re a member of a vulnerable group, or you want to protect your family members from sickness, it’s important to stay up to date with your vaccinations.”

    Minister for Health Ryan Park said:  

    “We are today urging the community to get vaccinated ahead of the peak respiratory virus season this winter.

    “Respiratory viruses such as flu are expected to rise this winter – and we are expecting higher flu activity this season.

    “The best way to protect your loved ones is to get vaccinated.

    “That’s why we’re offering free flu vaccines for all children aged six months to under five years and people aged 65 years and older, as well as vulnerable individuals such as pregnant women and people with medical risk factors.”

    Warriewood SLSC 2025 Ocean Swim

    Scheduled for Sunday, 4th May starting at 10am, the first weekend after the end of the patrol season, let’s make this not only a great way to end the season, but also a regular event on the club’s event calendar.

    The swim will follow an approx. 1.5km course from Turimetta Beach round to our fabulous Warriewood Beach. 
    Prizes are available for winners of all age categories (minimum age 15).

    There is also a category for participants with wetsuits & fins.

    If not swimming, there are plenty of volunteer slots available for everyone covering water safety, registration, first aid, transfer swimmer’s possessions and set-up.

    Event Details

    Event:             Warriewood Ocean Swim
    Date:              Sunday, 4th May
    Time:              Race start at 10am
    Location:         Race check-in at Warriewood Beach before moving to Turimetta for the start.
    Race Entries:   Online: oceanswims.com/event/warriewood-swim
    Or Register on the day at Warriewood beach.

    Urgent repairs to Fisher Bay and Castle Rock sections of Manly to Spit Scenic Walkway

    Council will be doing critical repairs along the Manly to Spit Scenic walkway over the next three months and is urging the community and visitors to plan ahead and follow signs.

    Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins emphasised the importance of these repairs, stating, " while sections of this popular walk have been repaired over the years, it is now essential to undertake works that will ensure the area is safe for everyone and help us reduce costs on repairs in the long run."

    The works will comprise of two stages, stage 1 at Castle Rock and stage 2 at Fisher Bay, near the Spit Bridge end.

    The works will start at the Castle Rock boardwalk after Anzac Day and will include a 500m signposted detour to direct walkers up Barrabooka Street and onto Ogilvy Road before rejoining the scenic walk.

    After the completion of the first section, works will commence on the Fisher Bay section, which requires the reconstruction of the wooden staircase so walkers will need to follow the signposted path between Ellery’s Punt Reserve at the Spit Bridge and Sandy Bay near Clontarf. 

    It’s recommended that if travelling by bus to the Spit Bridge to commence the walk that you alight at Heaton Ave if travelling south and if travelling north you alight at the Spit Bridge and follow the signs.

    Full details of the closures and detours can be found at www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/recreation-area/manly-scenic-walkway

    Mayor Heins added, "We understand that these closures may cause some inconvenience, but the safety of our community is our top priority. We appreciate everyone's patience and cooperation as we work to enhance the quality and safety of our beloved Manly to Spit walkway."

    The Council encourages all track users to plan ahead and visit Council’s website for detour maps and up to date information on the status of each section.

    These works are part of Council's ongoing commitment to maintaining and improving the safety and accessibility of local tracks and trails across the Northern Beaches.

    Works are scheduled to take place from the end of April through to June 2025, weather permitting.

    Photo: Kevin Murray 

    Free parenting webinars

    The Council is offering free parenting webinars to help parents of children and teenagers gain the most out of life and education.

    For parents struggling to get their children and young people to attend school, the Complexity of School Refusal webinar will provide valuable support and guidance. Tune in on Wednesday 14 May to learn about this growing issue.  The evening webinar will explore causes and challenges of school refusal, with experts sharing practical strategies to help families manage school attendance.

    This webinar is designed for parents and carers of children and young people aged 10–16 years (approximately Years 5–10), as well as educators, social service providers, and community members looking to better understand and support students experiencing school attendance challenges.

    On Wednesday 28 May, parents of primary school children are invited to join the Screen Savvy Parent webinar to learn how to manage screen time for healthier outcomes.

    Join The Unplugged Psychologist, expert Brad Marshall, in a session designed to empower parents to reduce the risks of recreational screen use on children’s development. As one of Australia’s leading authorities on internet and screen use disorders, Brad will share the latest research and offer valuable insights to support parents

    Northern Beaches mayor Sue Heins said that sometimes we need support to help children and young people develop into happy, productive, and fulfilled adults

    “Navigating parenthood in today’s world can be challenging. Council is glad we can support our community by providing information and tools to help families guide our children and young people through these formative years.  

    “These free online webinars will be popular so book now as bookings are essential.”

    Wednesday, 14 May – online
    7 pm to 8:30 pm 
    Proudly presented by Northern Beaches Council and supported by the Northern Sydney Region Network of Councils including Lane Cove, Mosman, North Sydney, City of Ryde, Willoughby City, Hornsby, Ku-ring- gai and Hunters Hill Council. 
    Online, Free, Bookings Essential

    Wednesday, 28 May – online
    6:30 pm to 8 pm 
    Proudly presented by Northern Sydney Local Health District and supported by the Northern Sydney Region Network of Councils including Northern Beaches, Hornsby, Hunters Hill, Ku-ring-gai, Lane Cove, Mosman, North Sydney, Ryde, and Willoughby City.
    Online, Free, Bookings Essential

    Wedding Island

    Is there anything better than a Scotland Island wedding or a comedy in its Community Hall? In May 2025 we bring you both!
    The team who last year brought you 'Secret Island' returns with another hilarious comedy. Once again written by that elusive islander Bogue Anthill, 'Wedding Island' is directed by Elvina Bay resident Sophie Lepowic. 

    The cast includes (in order of appearance) May Blackband, Roy Baker, Alix Ah-Pet, Nettie Lodge, Sophie Lepowic, Mara Syngros, Jess McGowan, Larry Woods, Ian White and Lizzie Brand. Stage management is by Gilli Unwin.

    'Secret Island' was a sell-out, so don't miss 'Wedding Island'. A nubile couple, seventy rowdy guests and a frisky brush turkey. What could possibly go wrong?

    A special ferry will depart from the island (Tennis Court wharf) at the end of the first night's performance (9 May), returning audience members to the mainland (Church Point).



    2025 Environmental Art & Design Prize Entries Now open 

    Council has announced Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran (art) and Keinton Butler (design) as the judges for this year’s Environmental Art & Design Prize.

    Now in its fifth year, Environmental Art & Design Prize is open to artists and designers of all levels and diverse disciplines from across Australia. Submissions will be accepted to 19 May 2025.

    Mayor Sue Heins said the prize has developed into one of the leading competitions covering both art and design focusing on the environment.

    “Each year fascinating art works and designs are submitted for this environmentally thought-provoking prize.

    “The prize is an important platform for the natural environment to take centre stage, enabling artists and designers to share their work inspired by nature, climate change and sustainable living.

    “In past years we have seen impactful submissions from creatives including painters, ceramists and furniture designers. This year we would also love to see more contributions from architects, product, fashion and industrial designers.

    “We are looking forward to an amazing array of powerful artworks and designs for 2025,” Mayor Heins said.

    This year’s judges have vast experience in the art and design worlds. Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran is a contemporary artist with his work appearing in galleries across the globe. Keinton Butler is Senior Curator at Sydney’s Powerhouse Museum and the Creative Director of Sydney Design Week.

    There are four prizes on offer this year with prize money totalling $46000. 

    The visual arts and design winners will each receive $20,000. The people’s choice winners and the young artists/designers have a prize pool of $3,000 each.

    All finalists will be featured in an exhibition across the Council’s 3 galleries, Manly Art Gallery and Museum (MAG&M), Curl Curl Creative Space, and Mona Vale Creative Space Gallery from 1 August to 14 September 2025.

    Finalists will be announced on Friday 23 May and the winners will be announced on Friday1 August 2025.

    For more information, and to enter, visit Council's webpage at: https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/arts-and-culture/northern-beaches-environmental-art-and-design-prize   

    Island Café: Catherine Park, Scotland Island

    Consultation on Bus Stop Relocation: Barrenjoey Road Palm Beach

    Dear Editor,
    The council advises that development consent has been granted through the Land and Environment Court for a shop top housing development at No.s 1112-1116 Barrenjoey Road. 

    One of the conditions of development consent requires the developer to seek approval for the relocation of the bus stop to a new location outside No.1102 Barrenjoey Road in order for the developer to facilitate using the current bus stop position for their DA's proposed driveway to their underground carpark.

    The developer has, in liaison with TfNSW and its bus services contractor Keolis Downer prepared a concept plan for the required work.

    Barrenjoey Road is a State Road under the management of Transport for NSW (TfNSW), and they would ultimately be responsible for approving any required changes to the signposted parking and Bus Zone restrictions, but Council would like to provide an opportunity for the community to provide feedback on the proposed changes.

    We have been informed the concept plan, attached, is indicative only and may be subject to change following consideration of feedback:


    The project team would like residents feedback on this proposal by visiting the following URL: 
    You will then be directed to an online form.
    Comments close on 4 May 2025.

    For your response to be considered include your name and address. Please note that individual responses to submissions will not be given. 

    Once feedback has been reviewed, the feedback will be provided to TfNSW and a report noting their decision on the matter presented to the Local Traffic Committee for the information of the Committee.

    Could you please ensure the wider community is apprised of the mooted changes.

    Two Palm Beach Residents

    Patrol Flags come down Today

    The Surf Life Saving patrol season in NSW ends today, Sunday April 27th, 2025. This marks the end of the season for volunteer lifesavers patrolling beaches in the state.

    The 2024-2025 Surf Life Saving NSW patrol season, which began on September 28, 2024, has seen 21,000 lifesavers active on NSW beaches. 

    In the period from July 2024 to April 2025, Surf Life Saving NSW recorded a total of 46 coastal drowning deaths in NSW, with 6 deaths occurring over the Easter period alone. This includes a 9-year-old boy who drowned after being swept off rock shelves. The total number of coastal drownings across the whole state for this period was 61.

    During the whole Patrol Season, NSW volunteer lifesavers and ALS lifeguards have completed more than 4,600 rescues, made over 1 million preventative actions on our beaches, and delivered around 20,000 first aids – a monumental effort, with figures likely to increase as surf clubs complete the final logs of their season.

    The Surf Life Saving Australia Summer Coastal Drowning Report 2024-25, to February 28 2025, states 51 lives were tragically lost across the Australian coastline, each one with long lasting impacts to family and friends. Males, unpatrolled beaches, and rip currents were again highlighted as dominant risk factors.  

    This number, however, would have been far greater if not for the incredible efforts of Surf Life Saving services across Australia, who have performed more than 1.31 million preventative actions and 5,500 rescues over the summer months. 

    More than 29,000 people also completed Surf Life Saving Australia’s Beach Passport, a virtual water safety course that provides practical tips on how to keep safe when visiting the coastline. 

    nSW Government’s call to action on illegal tree clearing

    April 23 2025

    The Minns Labor Government has state it is responding to calls from local government to help address the growing number of cases of illegal tree clearing in NSW.

    An Explanation of Intended Effect (EIE) has been released today and offers stakeholders the opportunity to help shape reforms to the urban tree clearing framework.

    A new resource to help planners, developers and builders tackle urban heat has also been released.

    The EIE is aimed at protecting tree canopy by proposing stronger penalties for illegal tree and vegetation clearing.

    Under the proposed policy changes, additional enforcement powers would be given to councils and exemptions would be tightened for dead, dying and dangerous vegetation to close loopholes that have been open to abuse.

    The EIE responds to growing concerns among councils, the community and stakeholders that the current framework needs to be updated.

    In addition to the EIE, the new Cooler Places hub has also been launched today to help address urban heat.

    The NSW Government’s Cooler Places online resource has also been released to assist councils, residents and developers in accessing practical guidance to incorporate cooling measures into their homes and designs.

    Urban heat can have negative effects on communities’ wellbeing, creating hotter homes and streetscapes. Some features of our urban landscape, such as the large areas of hard and dark surfaces, contribute to rising temperatures and amplify heatwaves.

    The resource encourages cooling through low cost and innovative measures such as water saving features, trees, shrubs awnings and the use of materials and colours that absorb less heat.

    In 2020, a study from Macquarie University found shade provided by urban trees can lower temperatures at ground level by up to 6°C.

    Similarly, research from Wollongong University in 2019 showed that areas with at least 30 per cent tree canopy cover experience improved mental and physical health outcomes.

    Cooler Places will help deliver cooler, more resilient cities, precincts, streets, parks and homes.

    To read the illegal tree and vegetation clearing EIE and make a submission visit the Vegetation in non-rural areas web page.

    The consultation period closes on 5pm on Wednesday, 4 June 2025. HAVE YOUR SAY HERE

    For more information on Cooler Places visit the Cooler Places web page.

    Minister for Environment and Climate Change Penny Sharpe said:

    “NSW records some of the hottest temperatures on the planet and we need to minimise the impacts of urban heat and build climate resilience.

    “Tackling illegal tree clearing is an essential part of this.

    “Working with councils on these proposed measures will increase the ability to crack down on illegal activity.”

    Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

    “Communities have become increasingly frustrated by the growing number of instances of illegal tree clearing in urban areas, particularly on public land.

    “Our housing reforms have leant on the development of infill housing, near existing infrastructure and services because constant urban sprawl is not sustainable. These proposed changes will better protect the existing tree canopy as we deliver more homes in developed areas.

    “I encourage everyone to have their say on the proposed changes.

    “The Cooler Places resource contains tips and advice on how to design and build cooler homes and neighbourhoods, delivering better communities.”

    A Win for Councils - Crackdown on illegal tree clearing!

    April 23, 2025

    The state’s peak body for local government has welcomed the NSW Government’s proposed crackdown on illegal tree and vegetation clearing as a major win for councils, communities and the environment in urban areas across the state.

    Local Government NSW (LGNSW) President Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM congratulated the NSW Government on its announced consultation proposing stronger penalties. 

    Mayor Miller said the announcement showed the State Government had heard and acted upon councils’ calls for stronger protections. 

    “LGNSW and councils have long called for action to address illegal tree clearing, with this matter raised at our 2022, 2023 and 2024 Annual Conferences. One of our advocacy priorities for the current year is for the NSW Government to legislate to increase protection of trees, with increased penalties for illegal destruction and vandalism,” Mayor Miller said. 

    “The NSW Government’s proposed changes would strengthen councils’ ability to protect their communities’ urban canopy and natural environment," she said.

    The Government has said the proposed changes would:

    • Increase fines and penalties for illegal tree and vegetation clearing.
    • Ensure existing restrictions on complying development where illegal clearing has occurred and can be enforced.
    • Improve compliance and enforcement outcomes by making the policy clearer, giving councils the power to issue orders relating to vegetation clearing.
    • Close potential loopholes associated with the removal of dead, dying and dangerous vegetation.
    • Require tree clearing permits to include a condition to replace cleared vegetation.

    Mayor Miller thanked the NSW Government for listening to councils and communities.

    “Councils invest millions in planting and maintaining trees and urban greenery, making our communities cooler, greener and more liveable. Trees are also critical to protecting biodiversity,” Mayor Miller said. 

    “We know our communities love their trees, but we need to ensure that penalties for illegal clearing act as a sufficient deterrent for the small minority who think they're above the law,” she said. 

    “LGNSW looks forward to carefully reviewing the proposed reforms in consultation with councils and contributing to this important step forward,” Mayor Miller said.

    To read the details on the proposed measures to combat illegal tree and vegetation clearing and to make your submission, visit the State Government's website here. The consultation period closes at 5pm on Wednesday 4 June 2025.

    Appeal for assistance in historical armed robbery investigation - Narrabeen

    Tuesday, 22 April 2025
    Detectives have released images of a man who may be able to assist police with an historical armed robbery that occurred on Sydney’s northern beaches.

    Shortly before 8am on Friday 22 April 2011, officers from Northern Beaches Police Area Command responded to reports of an armed robbery at a service station on Pittwater Road, Narrabeen.

    Officers were informed that a man entered the store threatening a 20-year-old male staff member with a sawn-off rifle.

    The man left the store with an amount of cash and was last seen running west along Robertson Street.

    There were no reports of any person being injured.

    He was described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 25-years of age, 170cm tall, medium build, short spikey dark coloured hair and a tattoo of barbed wire on his right upper arm.

    At the time he was wearing white cap, a brown coloured jumper with red patterns on the sleeves, light blue track pants, black/blue coloured gloves and dark coloured shoes.

    Some of these clothing items were later located on The Esplanade.

    Despite extensive inquiries at the time the man was unable to be identified.

    Following a review of the case police have received fresh information.

    Northern Beaches Police Area Command, Crime Manager, Inspector Mick Boutouridis, said investigators were seeking public assistance about the case.

    “Today marks the 14th anniversary of when the hold-up occurred and we are asking for help from the public,” said Inspector Boutouridis.

    “Despite the passage of time we never give up on trying to solve serious offences especially when a firearm is produced.”

    “As part of our investigation into this incident we have released images of a man who may be able to assist with our inquiries.”

     

    “Someone must know something about this case, and we are calling on anyone who knows anything to call Manly Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.”

    Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or nsw.crimestoppers.com.au 
    Information is managed on a confidential basis. 

    Nominations open for the 2025 Public Education Awards

    Do you know someone who proudly demonstrates the values of public education?

    Or perhaps you’ve noticed a school community that has been quietly working to improve equity and build capacity for its students and their families?

    This is your chance to nominate them for the 2025 Public Education Foundation Awards.

    “Public education and its achievements deserve to be celebrated, as do the people and school communities that make those achievements happen,” said NSW Department of Education Secretary Murat Dizdar.

    “I encourage any staff member who knows a person or a school that’s deserving of recognition to nominate them for this year’s Public Education Foundation Awards.”

    The awards promote the exceptional work that takes place every day in the NSW public education system – by schools, students, teachers, staff, and volunteers.

    There are seven award categories, reflecting public education’s priorities of excellence, diversity, inclusion, belonging and living our values.

    “Each day, dedicated individuals within our public education system inspire and uplift those around them,” said Paul Somers, the Public Education Foundation’s Chief Operating Officer.

    “The Public Education Awards provide an opportunity to shine a spotlight on these unsung heroes who embody the values of commitment, equity, and excellence in education.”

    For further information including how to make a nomination, visit NSW Public Education Awards – Public Education Foundation

    Nominations close on Friday 9 May 2025 at 5pm.

    2025 Public Education Award Categories
    Open to all staff:
    • Secretary's Award for Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging 
    Recognising schools and school-based staff: 
    • Minister's Award for Excellence in Teaching 
    • Secretary's Award for Excellent Service 
    • Secretary's Award for Outstanding School Achievement
    Recognising students, parents and volunteers: 
    • Minister's Award for Excellence in Student Achievement
    • Public School Parent and Volunteer of the Year Award
    Recognising Education support staff:
    • Secretary's Award for Living Our Values

    More funding available for war memorials in NSW

    April 22, 2025
    Applications for the Community War Memorials Fund 2025/26 are open, with $250,000 in funding available for the protection and conservation of war memorials.

    The program supports the conservation, repair and protection of local memorials throughout NSW.

    This year sees changes to enhance the grant program and deliver greater funding opportunities to organisations seeking to undertake conservation work on war memorials in local communities across NSW.

    There is now one grant round per year with a total of $250,000 funding available. The maximum individual grant amount has also increased to $15,000.

    Applications can also be submitted under a new category for works to war memorial precincts, as well as the existing categories for condition assessments and physical works.

    Recipients of funding from previous rounds of the program include the Windsor and District RSL sub-Branch who received $6,700 for conservation works to two honour rolls at the Colo War Memorial dedicated to those from the local community who served in the First and Second World Wars. The memorial is a valuable part of the Colo community’s commemorative events honouring the service of its veterans, including Anzac Day services.

    To be eligible for funding, the memorial must be listed on the NSW War Memorials Register: www.warmemorialsregister.nsw.gov.au.

    More information on the program and details for how to apply are available here: www.veterans.nsw.gov.au/heritage/community-war-memorials-fund.

    The 2025/2026 round of the Community War Memorials Fund closes on 25 June 2025.

    Little things

    The new single "Little Things" by Pittwater girl Melanie Horsnell, and featuring Shane Nicholson was released April 11, 2025.  A love song to noticing daily little bits of beauty we encounter.

    Our daughter has released 11 albums since she graduated from Pittwater High School. This is her latest single. You can listen and buy direct from Melanie on her Bandcamp site or thru your regular streaming app. 

    Here's the bandcamp link as well:  melaniehorsnell.bandcamp.com/track/little-things

    Geoff-Sharon Horsnell

    ACMA welcomes commercial radio code of practice consultation

    The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has welcomed Commercial Radio & Audio’s (CRA) public consultation of its draft code of practice. On registration by the ACMA, this code would establish a revised set of rules for what can and can’t be broadcast on commercial radio.

    The ACMA has been encouraging CRA to review and update its code, which was last fully reviewed in 2017, to better respond to a changing media landscape and address contemporary audience expectations. 

    As part of the review process, the ACMA has shared with CRA its views on a range of issues based on its regulatory and research activities. We are pleased that some of these have been addressed through revisions to the draft code and we welcome CRA seeking the public’s views on other issues raised by the ACMA. 

    Codes of practice are drafted by the broadcasting industry but can only be registered if the ACMA is satisfied they provide appropriate community safeguards. Public submissions made to the consultation will be reviewed by the ACMA and may help inform its considerations for registration. 

    The consultation is open until Sunday, 18 May 2025. You can find more information about making a submission on CRA’s website.

    The ACMA’s views on the key issues it has raised with CRA in the code review process is available on the ACMA website.

    Artefacts reveal the courage and sacrifice 110 years on from Gallipoli

    April 23, 2025
    A powerful collection of wartime artefacts testifying to the enduring legacy of the ANZACs is on display at the Anzac Memorial as the nation marks 110 years since the landing at Gallipoli this week.

    Anzac Day is an opportunity to reflect on a legacy etched in courage and sacrifice that has shaped our nation and resonated through the generations for more than a century.

    These artefacts offer a tangible connection to those who served at Gallipoli, ensuring their stories are preserved for generations to come.

    Among the artefacts is an otherwise ordinary pocket Bible that saved the life of Corporal Alister Ross at Gallipoli. Carried in his breast pocket, the bible absorbed the full force of a bullet or high-velocity shrapnel fragment, its cover still bearing the imprint of that life-saving moment.

    A rare surviving trench periscope, acquired by light horseman Sergeant Roy Harris during the campaign, speaks to the remarkable ingenuity of soldiers who improvised solutions to the challenges of warfare in the trenches.

    The 9th Battalion’s marker pennant is a poignant remnant of the first battalion to land at Anzac Cove – among them, several hundred men from northern NSW who were part of that historic dawn landing.

    Visitors to the Anzac Memorial can see these and many more artefacts from over a century of service by Australian men and women, including the Treasures of the Anzac Memorial exhibition marking the Memorial’s 90th anniversary. Entry is free and open daily, 9am to 5pm.

    Many of the items in the exhibition can now be viewed digitally following the launch of the Memorial’s online collection on the Anzac Memorial website.

    Minister for Veterans David Harris said:

    “Anzac Day is a time for the NSW community to come together and pay tribute to the first ANZACs and to all the brave servicemen and servicewomen who have since followed in their footsteps.

    “Thanks to the generosity of those who returned from Gallipoli and the families of those who served, artefacts like these now sit in collections such as the Anzac Memorial’s, ensuring the stories of courage and sacrifice of those who landed at Anzac Cove 110 years ago can be shared with generations to come.

    “These artefacts hold a special place with my family, as my great great uncle Duncan Chapman served in the 9th battalion and was the first ashore at Gallipoli in 1915.

    “I want to encourage everyone to visit these artefacts but for those who are unable to visit in person, the online collection enables anyone to view the memorial virtually and experience the thousands of donated items.”

    Anzac Memorial’s Senior Historian and Curator Brad Manera said:

    “The Gallipoli campaign in 1915 saw the birth of the ANZAC legend. The gallantry of the Australian soldiers attracted international attention and created a reputation for military skill that is the foundation of a tradition enjoyed by the Australian Defence Force to this day.

    “The great-hearted men who fought at Gallipoli, and the women who nursed and supported them, are all long dead but the mementoes and souvenirs they acquired and entrusted to collections like those of the Anzac Memorial remain. These artefacts are tangible reminders of an extraordinary generation and their legacy of courage, endurance and sacrifice.”

    Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week

    Sally 

    11 weeks Staffy X PUP

    Cookie, Sally, Coral and Ginger, four girls were dumped in a night deposit box at the pound. Our vet thinks they might be from different litters. They are underweight and wormy but in bright spirits considering what they have been through. Little Coral, the smallest is the shyest of the litter but all have good appetites and are super affectionate and come running for attention. They all have short coats. Sally weighs 4.1kg. She suits a home-based worker with a garden. She comes with desexing , 3 puppy vaccinations, heartworm free and chipped. Her adoption cost is $800. 

    Lady 

    10yo Foxy X

    Lady is a very sweet gentle girl. She is quite agile for her age and happily jumps on chairs and couches. She has an affectionate nature and is very dog social with small dogs. She has a heart murmur which we are investigating and is lined up for a dental and will needs multiple extractions. She has a short coat and weighs 5.9kg. She suits apartment living and being left alone on a PT basis. All our dogs come with desexed, fully 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. 

    For further details call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133  or email  Monika@DoggieRescue.com.  RON R251000024

    Nominate a Volunteer Today: 2025 Awards

    Nominations have now opened for the 2025 NSW Volunteer of the Year awards which recognise the outstanding efforts of the 4.3 million volunteers in NSW.

    Member for Manly, James Griffin said volunteering is incredibly valuable to local communities, with a range of community groups including sporting organisations relying on the hard work of volunteers. 

    “Volunteers contribute $178 billion to the NSW economy, and I know here locally, our community just wouldn’t work as it does, without the dedication of volunteers,” Mr Griffin said.

    “In many ways, volunteers are the backbone of our communities, and that is particularly true in the Manly electorate.

    “From our service clubs, emergency services, church groups, hospital auxiliaries and sporting clubs, there are those who work tirelessly to make our part of the world a better place to live.

    “There are countless projects and initiatives in our electorate that simply would never have happened without the work of volunteers, and I sincerely thank everyone who sacrifices their time for the betterment of our communities,” Mr Griffin said.

    “If you know someone who deserves to be recognised as part of the 2025 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, I encourage you to lodge your nomination promptly,” he said.

    The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards are an annual program aimed at recognising the incredible dedication, effort and community service of our state’s volunteers, volunteer leaders and volunteer teams.

    Nominations for the 2025 awards are now open and close on Friday 23rd of May 2025.

    To learn more about the awards, please visit The Centre for Volunteering website at The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards - The Centre for Volunteering.

    Slow Down: Wildlife Crossing

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


     
    Photo: Phoebe the Swamp Wallaby by Jane Notice

    Letters to the Editor

    Letters should preferably be 150 to 175 words, but that remains optional. Letters must include the writer's address and phone number and 'permission to publish'.  The editor's prerogative includes editing letters for length, grammar or legal reasons.  Email: pittwateronlinenews@live.com.au

    Speed humps on McCarrs Creek Rd: 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

    This 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. There is so much wildlife on the move in our area at present due to various pressures. This database that volunteers maintain 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

    Week Two April 2025 (April 7 - 13)

    Front Page Issue 641

    Week Two April 2025 (April 7 - 13)

    Happy Dance Time! Narrabeen Sports High School to receive new Performing Arts Hall as part of major upgrade

    Electric Day 1 of 2025 Australian Boardriders Battle Grand Final - NASA, North Steyne into Quarterfinal rounds

    Dr Scamps’ plan to protect Pittwater: Nomination For Heritage Listing

    Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race 2025: The Race reports by Di Pearson

    Mackellar - Warringah 2025 Candidates by Ballot draw + Record Voters this Election + Community Fed up with Juvenile behaviour during election campaigns + How Preferential Voting works: YOU Determine which way your vote flows

    Healthscope Announces it Wants to Exit Northern Beaches Hospital, Return it to the Government

    Manly to Barrenjoey Peninsula Tops Uptake of NSW Government's Household Battery Incentive + Mackellar MP's Residential Batteries Policy Adopted by Labor + Warringah MP Steggall's Comment + Labor’s home battery plan must be properly targeted to be fair

    ABSLSC 100th Anniversary Monthly Reflections in the Waves - April by Roger Sayers OAM

    Aquatics: Risk of rip current deaths highest among young men at unpatrolled beaches: SLSA - UNSW's New Research

    Our 1 billion pet dogs do real environmental damage

    Cirque Du Joy – Reset the Dial: The Women’s Resilience Centre’s Most Critical Fundraising Event

    Fewer rescues, smarter boaters: Marine Rescue NSW sees drop in March 2025 missions - Cottage Point tops local unit rescues

    Partnership Expands Surf Lifesaving NSW's Drone Operations Out of Sight

    Park Bench Philosophers: Roderic Quinn's Poems and Prose For Manly, Beacon Hill, Dee Why and Narrabeen - some Autumn School Holidays inspiration to enjoy our great outdoors

    Mixed Results: Latest Telco Customer Complaint Performance Rankings from ACMA

    Environment Noisy Friarbirds Spotted in Local treed suburbs for the first time, Good boy or bad dog? Our 1 billion pet dogs do real environmental damage; NSW Pet Laws (dog and cat regulations) go under the microscope - Have your say until May 4, Kudos to Council workers: Blue Groper Rescued from Rockpool, Aussie Bird Count 2024 Results, Pittwater Natural Heritage Association - Autumn 2025 Newsletter, Have your say on the NSW Freshwater Fish Stocking Plan, Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 Recycling Batteries: at Mona Vale + Avalon Beach, ‘1080 pest management’, Reporting Dogs Offleash - Dog Attacks to Council, Plastic Bread Ties For Wheelchairs, Volunteers for Barrenjoey Lighthouse Tours needed, Stay Safe From Mosquitoes, Friday essay: in an uncertain world, ‘green relief’ offers respite, healing and beauty, Coalition plan to dump fuel efficiency penalties would make Australia a global outlier, Peter Dutton’s climate policy backslide threatens Australia’s clout in the Pacific – right when we need it most, We study ‘planktivores’ – and found an amazing diversity of shapes among plankton-feeding fishes, Reality check: coral restoration won’t save the world’s reefs, Fresh details emerge on Australia’s new climate migration visa for Tuvalu residents. An expert explains, Batteries for all, not just the rich? Labor’s home battery plan must be properly targeted to be fair, 98% of Queensland prawn areas at risk of inundation by rising seas this century, Biosecurity policies can be annoying – but a century of Antarctic data shows they work, Antarctica’s hidden threat: meltwater under the ice sheet amplifies sea-level rise, New satellite data shows NZ’s major cities are sinking – meaning rising seas will affect them sooner, Earth’s oceans once turned green – and they could change again, Drug pollution in water is making salmon take more risks – new research, Wave energy’s huge potential could finally be unlocked by the power of sound – new research, Mountain Bike Incidents On Public Land, Report fox sightings, marine wildlife rescue group on the Central Coast, Watch out - shorebirds about, Possums In Your Roof?: do the right thing, Aviaries + Possum Release Sites Needed, Bushcare in Pittwater: where + when, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment Activities, Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations in Pittwater, Ringtail Posses, Are turtles not safe in the estuary?, Pittwater Reserves: histories + Walks, Birds, + 

    Inbox News Pride and preservation: The Imperial Hotel listed on the NSW State Heritage Register, New free TAFE courses to deliver Australia’s manufacturing workforce, Do I need another COVID booster? Which one should I choose? Can I get it with my flu shot?, Reform clock is ticking – the big policy challenges the next government must urgently address, 3.5 million Australians experienced fraud last year; This could be avoided through 6 simple steps, New research shows digital technology is linked to reduced wellbeing in young kids. So what can parents do?, Selling your old laptop or phone? You might be handing over your data too, Albanese and Dutton both say they will return the Port of Darwin to Australian hands, Without women Australia’s defence force will struggle to recruit enough people, ‘Sometimes you need to eat an entire cucumber’: nutrition experts on the viral TikTok trend, MyMedicare promises better health care; But only 1 in 10 patients has signed up, From flowers to stalking: how ‘nice guy’ narratives can lead to male entitlement and violence against women, American liberators of Nazi camps got ‘a lifelong vaccine against extremism’ − their wartime experiences are a warning for today, Good Day Sunshine - A Winter's Tale (1974), $180,000 to support people living with macular disease, Big changes are planned for aged care in 2025; But you’d never know from the major parties, As more communities have to consider relocation we explore what happens to the land after people leave, New figures reveal older Australians skipping dental treatment, Innovative initiative reduces hospital length of stay for older patients, Call to action as retirees hit hard amid market volatility, Here’s a simple, science-backed way to sharpen your thinking and improve your memory, Can you spot a financial fake? How AI is raising our risks of billing fraud, Wit, charm and heart: novelist Kerry Greenwood, creator of Phryne Fisher, was a true original, Do I need another COVID booster? Which one should I choose? Can I get it with my flu shot?, Gold rush Melbourne and post-war boom: how Australia overcame housing shortages in the past, Tools like Apple’s photo Clean Up are yet another nail in the coffin for being able to trust our eyes, Happy Dance Time! Narrabeen Sports High School to receive new Performing Arts Hall as part of major upgrade, The Sydney Royal Easter Show Showbag Began as an Australian sample Bag, Out Front winner announced,  Forest High School opens NSW’s first in-school op shop, Killarney Heights High gets a dose of Tahitian culture, Are you thinking about doing an SBAT?, Good Day Sunshine - A Winter's Tale (1974), Opportunities: New free TAFE courses to deliver Australia’s manufacturing workforce + Band Comp. at Palm Beach + SHAPE 2025 + Council's 2025 Environmental Art & Design Prize Entries open now + Youth Week creative arts competition: ACYP + NSW Youth Week 2025 + Youth Advisory Council + 2025 Game Changer Challenge + Learner drivers benefit as more resources become available online  +School Leavers Support, Word Of The Week: Rest, Friday essay: in an uncertain world ‘green relief’ offers respite, healing and beauty, Social media before bedtime wreaks havoc on our sleep − a sleep researcher explains why screens alone aren’t the main culprit, 3.5 million Australians experienced fraud last year; This could be avoided through 6 simple steps, 47% of Gen Z mainly vote to avoid a fine; It’s a sign of younger Australians’ discontent with democracy, Do I need another COVID booster? Which one should I choose? Can I get it with my flu shot?, Tools like Apple’s photo Clean Up are yet another nail in the coffin for being able to trust our eyes, Do Inuit languages really have many words for snow? The most interesting finds from our study of 616 languages, Can we really resurrect extinct animals or are we just creating hi-tech lookalikes?, Next generation computer chips could process data at the speed of light – new research, The ‘morning shed’: a brief history of the sometimes dangerous lengths women have gone to look beautiful, Babe at 30: why this much-loved film is one of the best cinematic translations of a children’s book, Siena: The Rise of Painting, 1300-1350 at the National Gallery is a remarkable achievement

    ________________________

    Week One April 2025 (March 31 - April 6)

    NB: The 2025 Australian Surf Life Saving Championships 'wrap' will run Sunday April 13 

    Bilgola Big Winner in 2024-25 NSW Government's Surf Club Facilities Grants: Over 1.3 Million allocated to local clubs

    Australian Boardriders Battle 2025 Grand Final: Seven Local Clubs Have Qualified - runs next weekend 12-13 April and will be broadcast LIVE

    Pictures: McCarrs Creek Public Jetty, Brown's Bay Public Jetty, Rostrevor Reserve, Cargo Wharf, Church Point Public Wharf: a few pictures from the Site Investigations for Pittwater Public Wharves History series 2025

    Aquatics: It’s on for young and old in Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race by Di Pearson

    Bonnie Harvey announced as Greens Candidate for Warringah 2025

    Marine Rescue NSW to host International Maritime Rescue Federation events in August

    Food: The Waterfront Café & General Store: Lunch at 'On The Deck'

    Park Bench Philosophers: Good news beach lovers: our research found 39% less plastic waste around Australian coastal cities than a decade ago - CSIRO

    DIY Ideas: BOM's Autumn 2025 Forecast Makes this Season Great for Garden Care + What to Plant Now

    2025 Federal Election Questions for Candidates: Send yours in now + Enrolment details (closes April 7) + Postal Votes + Key Dates from the AEC

    ANZAC Day 2025 Commemoration Services: when and where

    Council Review of Alcohol Free Zones: Feedback closes April 27 2025 - changes for some areas proposed

    Digital Parking permits coming for across the Peninsula + CellOPark Dispute 2024-2025 + NSW Government's Ticketless Parking Reforms and Consultation on Equal Access to Beach Parking Permits (open until April 17 2025)

    NSW Pet Laws (dog and cat regulations) go under the microscope - Have your say until May 4

    Scamps' Call for Residential Battery Subsidies May Ease Council's EV-Charging Stations Dilemma + Solar for Apartment Residents incentive open until December 31 + EV and Hybrid vehicle data for our area by postcode + NSW Inquiry into Infrastructure for electric and alternative energy source vehicles in NSW (closing date for submissions is Friday 2 May 2025) + ‘A house battery you can drive around’: how a handful of Australians are selling power from their cars back to the grid 

    Minns Government Announces 'Joe's Law' to End Private-Public Hospital Model As Inquiry into Safety and Quality of Services at Northern Beach Hospital Opens for Submissions Submissions close May 20 2025

    Monika's Doggie Rescue: 3 x Chihuahua Pup Litters need ongoing care

    Boaters reminded not to get complacent on the water: MRNSW's February 2025 Rescues - Boating Season Closes Anzac Day 2025

    Profile of the Week The Australian Surf Life Saving Championships 2025: Finals Results + 'Wrap' 

    This year's Australian Surf Life Saving Championships 'wrap' of members efforts from the Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches Branch is a compilation of Surf Lifesaving Australia, Surf Life Saving New South Wales, Avalon Beach and Newport surf club reports.

    Newport SLSC excelled again this year, finishing the championships ranked 2nd on 249 points, with their Newport Kinghorn Academy Surf Racing Academy accounting for a swathe of those - although all local clubs had members winning points for their club in each Age Division or ensuring their club's colours were front and centre on the sand or in the water. 

    The peninsula also saw a large crew of officials heading north to ensure the championships could take place, happily giving their time, energy, and a fair amount of money, to be where they could support the events.

    On a special note during the week of Aussies, Newport's Life Member Gary Cook received a recognition award for his 30 years of service as an official which is an outstanding contribution to his club and lifesaving as a whole.

    Three great peninsula March Past teams made the Finals with the Collaroy Ladies being awarded the Gold, the Freshwater Maroon in 5th and the Collaroy Bears in 8th.

    Some of the biggest smiles came from more than 30 athletes hitting the beach for the Adaptive Program events on Day Eight of the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships.  

    Gold, Silver, Bronze, points and 'having a go' is still brimming over across all ages - it's a good thing everyone has an Autumn School Holidays break to wind down in.

    This Issue the full list of Finalists across all Age Divisions and Events.


      Despite being one of the earliest and smallest jetties on McCarrs creek, and later becoming the same site for the Brown's Bay Public Wharf, the official gazetting of the access way to the waterfront of this tucked away corner of Pittwater came much later than the jetty itself. 

      While the terms "wharf" and "jetty" are sometimes used interchangeably, a wharf is typically a long, flat, elevated structure parallel to the shoreline used for commercial docking and loading, while a jetty is a structure extending into the water, often serving as a breakwater or for a walkway, or both. Givcen the size of Brown's Bay Public Wharf most would term it a jetty.

      George Brown was granted 41 acres on McCarrs creek with the Certificate of Title registered on 14th of November 1879 and on what is the current site of Browns Bay. 

      The George Brown property here was called ‘Waterside’.  

      George Brown's 30 acres can be seen in the Certificate of Title Vol- Fol 499-41 - and was then on 'McGaa's Creek.
      This Issue a few insights into a little beauty of a public wharf.

      Pittwater Offshore Newsletter:

      April 1 2025

      The Coochie Bus: Tales of Two Islands; 'Wedding Island' Fiasco; Supporting Your Island Firies; Island Café notice; Robertson Boulevard Wall Party; Moon Dance: The Wall; Woody Point AGM; Feast for Freedom; Easter Egg Hunt; Anzac Day Memorial Service; International Folk Dancing; Wedding Island; Native plants for sale

      Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

      To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

      Avalon Quilters 'The Sum of Us' Raffle Quilt for Mito Foundation

      The Avalon Quilters with the 2025 raffle quilt, “The Sum Of Us”.

      The Avalon Quilters have an amazing raffle quilt they have made to raise funds for the Mito Foundation. 

      The quilt, appropriately named “The Sum Of Us”, was made last year by Avalon Quilter’s 25 members. It is completely handmade and totals over 4500 one-inch pieces, then finished off with hand quilting.

      Details show the personal and colourful choices made by Avalon Quilters for each piece, underlining the title of this beautiful quilt.

      Raffle tickets at $2 each, are available from members, who meet in the Uniting Church at Avalon every Thursday, 10-2.30,  at Patchwork on Pittwater at Mona Vale, and Avalon Fabrics and Craft, in Avalon Parade. 

      The raffle will be drawn at Easter.

      All tickets sales will go to the Mito Foundation, which Avalon Quilters have been supporting for over a decade through making raffle quilts. 

      The Mito Foundation supports people affected by mitochondrial disease (mito), funds essential research into the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cures of mitochondrial disorders, and increases awareness and education about mito. 

      Mitochondria are the power houses of the cell providing the body with over 90% of the energy it needs to sustain life. Mitochondria take in sugars and proteins from the food we eat and produce energy called ATP that our bodies use to function properly. Mitochondrial disease (mito) is a debilitating and potentially fatal disease that reduces the ability of the mitochondria to produce this energy. When the mitochondria are not working properly, cells begin to die until eventually whole organ systems fail and the patient's life itself is compromised.

      The Mito Foundation was founded in 2009 by Pittwater residents Doug and Margie Lingard, their friends, and experts in the field of mitochondrial disease (mito). 

      Autumn School Holidays - Easter Break

      Please note there will be no Issue on Sunday April 20 2025 - Easter Sunday - and no Issue Notice will be sent out.

      Week Two of the April 2025 Pittwater Online News Issues (April 7 to 13) includes Notices and Events that aim to run to include what has been sent in until the next full Issue is published.

      The Week Three Issue for April 2025 will be available Sunday April 27.

      Although items can be added in, we're looking forward to a break and time with youngsters and family, and usually follow an 'emails off/phones off' policy in order to get that family break.
      We hope all of you have a great Autumn break as well.

      Thank you very much.
      A J Guesdon, Editor.

      Public Meeting: Hear the Candidates Speak

      Pittwater Community Alliance has invited candidates for the Federal Election to make brief presentations on their policies, and to answer questions from the floor.

      This public information session will give candidates an opportunity to inform electors about their policies and electors a chance to hear from candidates, including how they can protect the unique character of Pittwater, before polling day on 3rd May 2025.

      Pittwater Community Alliance (PCA) is a group of 14 major resident and community associations in Pittwater.

      We assist in representing their interests to protect and preserve the unique environment of Pittwater.

      PCA is independent and has no political allegiance or bias.
      PO Box 1180 Newport NSW 2106.

      When: Wednesday April 23, 2025 commencing at 6.45pm
      Where: Newport Community Centre, 11-13 The Boulevarde, Newport

      Newport Community Centre entrance. Pic: AJG/PON

      Meet + Greet 2025

      In the lead up to the upcoming federal election, Dr Sophie Scamps can be seen out and about all over the electorate chatting to the community about their views and values.  

      She encourages the community to keep an eye on her website and social media for up-to-date details of events and campaign activities.  

      Sophie is also always happy to hear from the community by email sophie.scamps.mp@aph.gov.au or by calling her team at the electorate office on 02 9913 9566.  

      Sophie will be attending the Pittwater Community Alliance Public Meeting at 6.45pm on Wednesday 23 April at the Main Hall, Newport Community Centre, The Boulevard, Newport NSW.

      Little things

      The new single "Little Things" by Pittwater girl Melanie Horsnell, and featuring Shane Nicholson was released April 11, 2025.  A love song to noticing daily little bits of beauty we encounter.

      Our daughter has released 11 albums since she graduated from Pittwater High School. This is her latest single. You can listen and buy direct from Melanie on her Bandcamp site or thru your regular streaming app. 

      Here's the bandcamp link as well:  melaniehorsnell.bandcamp.com/track/little-things

      Geoff-Sharon Horsnell

      Narrabeen Lakes Sailing Club Last Sail for the Season

      It was a bittersweet (bitter really!) day on Sunday April 6 2025 as we had our last day for this season. This last day was on par with the last 8 months: brilliant! Nice fair winds, a beautiful sunshine and an amazing spirit on the water and on shore.
      • - Our Learn to Sail kids and Intermediate Squad kids took part to their very first race.
      • - Dev Squad did some more training ahead of CHS and had a nice adventure in some areas we rarely explore.
      • - Mums and daughters (no grand-mother this year) had a nice contest for the coveted Ladies Champion title.
      • - Afternoon sailing was as pleasant as it is possible to be.
      • - And everyone helped to prepare the club for winter!
      We wish those who venture to other sports good luck and we look forward to seeing everyone to celebrate the season it was at our presentation evening on 7th June.

      Have your say on the NSW Freshwater Fish Stocking Plan

      April 2, 2025

      Recreational fishers are invited to have their say on what NSW waterways they would like their favourite freshwater fish species to be stocked into by the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).

      DPIRD Aquaculture Director Ian Lyall said there are numerous impoundments and reservoirs across NSW suitable for freshwater fish stocking, resulting in many excellent recreational fisheries being established.

      “DPIRD works with fishers and communities to release key sportfishing species such as Murray Cod, Australian Bass, Golden Perch and Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout into public impoundments each year during the stocking season,” Mr Lyall said.

      “DPIRD has developed a new plan for recreational stocking of reservoirs for the 2025-2026 season and would like feedback on what is proposed.

      “This is a great opportunity for recreational fishers to recommend where they would like fish stockings to take place over coming seasons.

      “They can also nominate new dams for stocking, which can be considered if there is practical public access and fishing is permitted.”

      Mr Lyall said all fish stockings in NSW are managed for sustainability via a Fisheries Management Strategy (FMS) and associated Environmental Impact Statement and all proposals will be reviewed to ensure that stocking is consistent with the FMS.

      “The 2023-24 stocking season saw more than 5.9 million fish released into NSW waters and this year is on track to be just as impressive, with more than 4.4 million fish already stocked across regional NSW so far”, Mr Lyall said.

      “Recreational fishing in NSW is a multi-billion-dollar industry and fish stockings plans an important role in building our inland recreational fisheries to provide exciting recreational fishing opportunities, contributing to regional economies and helping boost our fishing assets.

      “DPIRD have native fish hatcheries located throughout NSW that produce freshwater fish species for stocking, including Narrandera Fisheries Centre, Port Stephens Fisheries Institute, Grafton Aquaculture Centre, as well as Dutton and Gaden trout hatcheries.

      “These freshwater fish stockings are another great example of recreational fishing license fees at work.”

      Recreational fishers are encouraged to email their feedback on the draft plan to fish.stocking@dpird.nsw.gov.au by 30 April 2025.

      To view the NSW Freshwater Fish Stocking Plan and for more information visit https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/recreational/resources/stocking/enhanced-fish-production

      A map of fish stocking locations in NSW can be found on the DPIRD website - https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/recreational/resources/stocking

      ACMA welcomes commercial radio code of practice consultation

      The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has welcomed Commercial Radio & Audio’s (CRA) public consultation of its draft code of practice. On registration by the ACMA, this code would establish a revised set of rules for what can and can’t be broadcast on commercial radio.

      The ACMA has been encouraging CRA to review and update its code, which was last fully reviewed in 2017, to better respond to a changing media landscape and address contemporary audience expectations. 

      As part of the review process, the ACMA has shared with CRA its views on a range of issues based on its regulatory and research activities. We are pleased that some of these have been addressed through revisions to the draft code and we welcome CRA seeking the public’s views on other issues raised by the ACMA. 

      Codes of practice are drafted by the broadcasting industry but can only be registered if the ACMA is satisfied they provide appropriate community safeguards. Public submissions made to the consultation will be reviewed by the ACMA and may help inform its considerations for registration. 

      The consultation is open until Sunday, 18 May 2025. You can find more information about making a submission on CRA’s website.

      The ACMA’s views on the key issues it has raised with CRA in the code review process is available on the ACMA website.

      Showbags given green light for 2025 Royal Easter Show

      Families heading to the Sydney Royal Easter Show can rest easy knowing this year’s showbags are child friendly with NSW Fair Trading inspectors testing the nearly 400 bags to make sure the toys and cosmetic items meet strict standards.

      With an impressive overall compliance rate, traders have demonstrated their commitment to consumer safety, with only three showbags requiring minor adjustments to meet Australian Consumer Law.

      A total of 397 showbags were inspected, with just three identified as having non-compliant products. These included:
      • A doll tea set unsuitable for children under 36 months due to small parts presenting a potential choking hazard, which the trader has agreed to remove from the showbag.
      • A children’s bow and arrow set missing the mandatory warning label: “WARNING: Do not aim at eyes or face.” In this case the trader has agreed to affix the required label to ensure compliance.
      • Two children’s cosmetic products lacking mandatory ingredient labelling which the trader has now agreed to affix to the products.
      A final check of the bags has been carried out on Friday April 11 by inspectors confirming the required changes have been made.

      Further inspections will be carried out across the Easter Show precinct to ensure all products sold comply with Australian safety standards.

      Beyond inspections, NSW Fair Trading is also on hand at the Easter Show to chat with visitors about their consumer rights.

      Whether you have a burning question about your rental agreement, need tips on avoiding dodgy used car deals, lithium-ion battery safety, or just want to know more about your rights around property and strata matters, NSW Fair Trading’s friendly team will be on hand to help with expert advice at their stand, located in the Home and Lifestyle Pavilion.

      Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong said:

      “Families can enjoy the magic of the Easter Show knowing that NSW Fair Trading has checked every showbag to make sure the products inside meet the highest safety standards.

      “Traders have done an excellent job this year, with only a handful of products requiring minor adjustments to meet compliance – a testament to their commitment to consumer safety.

      “Showbag inspectors have been on the beat at the Royal Easter Show since the 1960s and our inspectors continue to make sure kids and kids-at-heart can enjoy their showbags safely.”

      Fair Trading Commissioner Natasha Mann stated:

      “NSW Fair Trading’s stall at the Easter Show is a great opportunity for people to get answers to their consumer rights questions, whether it’s about renting, buying a car, or understanding product safety.

      “The team is here to help consumers make informed choices – from ensuring they get a fair deal on a used car to knowing what their landlord can and can’t do.

      “If you’ve ever had a consumer rights question but didn’t know who to ask, now’s your chance to chat with the friendly team at the Easter Show.”

      The gates are officially open for the 2025 Show! 

      Heading to Sydney Showground today? Here’s everything you need to know. 

      Main Gate opens: 8:30AM

      Need tickets? They're still available! Grab yours at eastershow.com.au

      🚆 Public transport is included in your ticket. Extra bus and train services are running, plan your trip at eastershow.com.au/public-transport  AND:  transportnsw.info/events/2025/04/sydney-royal-easter-show

      Plan ahead as you’ll need to purchase a ticket for a specific day you wish to visit the Show. Tickets are non-transferable to other Show days as strict daily limit of tickets are in place. 

      For more information and to purchase your Show ticket, visit Easter Show – tickets. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds, especially if you’re visiting with young children.  

      Route: To Sydney Olympic Park and return
      1A Narrabeen, Collaroy, Dee Why, Beacon Hill, Forestville, Roseville, Chatswood West, North Ryde and Top Ryde
      1B Warriewood, Mona Vale, Terrey Hills, St Ives, West Pymble, Macquarie Park and Top Ryde

      Route 1A: 
      • Weekdays: between 6.46am and 2.14pm approximately. 
      • Weekends: between 7.05am and 2.35pm approximately. 
      Route 1B: 
      • Weekdays: between 6.57am and 2.17pm approximately. 
      • Weekends: between 7.12am and 3.04pm approximately. 
      Parking is SOLD OUT

      To find out what's on, when and where at this year's Royal Easter Show, please visit: eastershow.com.au

      Classics, Hot Rod and Bikes Show 2025

      The Pittwater Motor Enthusiasts' Association and Northern Beaches Hot Rod Club are jointly staging the Northern Beaches Classics, Hot Rod and Bikes Show at Pittwater RSL on Sunday the 27th of April.

      We have a 150+ cars and motorcycles registered.

      This will raise greatly needed funds for our featured charities, namely Mens Shed Australia (Men's Health) -Pittwater Senior Toy Repair Group Northern Beaches and the local Ingleside Rural Fire Service-RFS. 

      Club volunteers will collect 'gold coin' entry donations from the public at two different entry gates.

      During the morning, Pittwater Pelicans Bowling Club will be running a sausage sizzle in the grounds surrounding the car show, available to purchase for $5.00. Several coffee vans will be also onsite during the morning.

      When: Sunday 27 April; 9:00 am - 1:00 pm AEST
      Where: Pittwater RSL, Mona Vale Road, Mona Vale
      Cost: gold coin entry.

      Vroom - VROOM!

      Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week

      Hera 

      11mth Small Kelpie X

      Hera is a sweet affectionate girl who walks well on lead and has good dog social skills. Being working breed she is an active smart girl who is looking for an active family who want to involve her in their activities. She is fully grown and weighs 13kg but is currently underweight.  She has a short coat. She is just a sweetheart! She suits a family with house and garden and PT hours. She comes desexed , vaccinated, heartworm free and chipped. Her adoption cost is $450. 

      Doris 

      12 years Scruffy Terrier X 

      Doris came from the pound terribly scared, and they reported her as snappy. She is a very nervous girl who is just looking for the quiet life. Doris never barks and needs a calm person with experience to take her under their wing. Despite her age, she can still run! She can still see and hear reasonably well and despite loss of muscle mass on hind legs she can certainly move. She has been used to eating tinned food and we are slowly getting her used to cooked chicken, rice and veggies. We have also commenced nutraceuticals to help her joints and mobility. Doris is social with other small quiet dogs. She is afraid of being picked up but copes with it once she knows you. It does take time to build that relationship. She has just had a dental and is enjoying her food more. Doris never asks for anything. She has a scruffy coat and weighs 4kg. She comes desexed , vaccinated, heartworm free and chipped. Her adoption cost is $500. 

      For further details call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133  or email  Monika@DoggieRescue.com.  RON R251000024

      2025 Environmental Art & Design Prize Entries Now open 

      Council has announced Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran (art) and Keinton Butler (design) as the judges for this year’s Environmental Art & Design Prize.

      Now in its fifth year, Environmental Art & Design Prize is open to artists and designers of all levels and diverse disciplines from across Australia. Submissions will be accepted to 19 May 2025.

      Mayor Sue Heins said the prize has developed into one of the leading competitions covering both art and design focusing on the environment.

      “Each year fascinating art works and designs are submitted for this environmentally thought-provoking prize.

      “The prize is an important platform for the natural environment to take centre stage, enabling artists and designers to share their work inspired by nature, climate change and sustainable living.

      “In past years we have seen impactful submissions from creatives including painters, ceramists and furniture designers. This year we would also love to see more contributions from architects, product, fashion and industrial designers.

      “We are looking forward to an amazing array of powerful artworks and designs for 2025,” Mayor Heins said.

      This year’s judges have vast experience in the art and design worlds. Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran is a contemporary artist with his work appearing in galleries across the globe. Keinton Butler is Senior Curator at Sydney’s Powerhouse Museum and the Creative Director of Sydney Design Week.

      There are four prizes on offer this year with prize money totalling $46000. 

      The visual arts and design winners will each receive $20,000. The people’s choice winners and the young artists/designers have a prize pool of $3,000 each.

      All finalists will be featured in an exhibition across the Council’s 3 galleries, Manly Art Gallery and Museum (MAG&M), Curl Curl Creative Space, and Mona Vale Creative Space Gallery from 1 August to 14 September 2025.

      Finalists will be announced on Friday 23 May and the winners will be announced on Friday1 August 2025.

      For more information, and to enter, visit Council's webpage at: https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/arts-and-culture/northern-beaches-environmental-art-and-design-prize   

      Renewing the water main in Old Barrenjoey Road

      Construction update – Friday 11 April 2025

      This week we carried out some further potholing and geotechnical investigation work along Old Barrenjoey Road to confirm ground conditions and prepare for installing the new water main.
       
      Next week we will continue potholing on Old Barrenjoey Road between Avalon Parade and the Crescent. This will help us confirm the location of property connection points and other underground services.
       
      Our work will involve: 
      • temporary closure of Old Barrenjoey Road, between Avalon Parade and The Crescent during our night work hours– see map below. 
      • general traffic will be diverted via local streets. 
      • access to driveways, businesses and parking spaces will be maintained for local traffic at all times. Our traffic controllers will be on site to assist and to help keep traffic flowing safely.
      • vacuum trucks (also known as ‘sucker trucks’) will be used for potholing. 

      As a reminder, our night work hours are 8 pm to 5 am, Monday nights to Friday mornings. We will not work on Public Holidays, Friday, Saturday or Sunday nights.
       
      There will be some noise from our equipment and machinery as our work progresses along Old Barrenjoey Road. The level of noise you may experience will vary based on how far you live from our work area and what type of property you live in.
       
      We will make every effort minimise noise where possible. We will finish the noisiest work (including saw cutting or jackhammering) by midnight, avoid unnecessary loud noises where possible and turn off vehicles when not in use. 
       
      At the end of each shift, we will temporarily restore Old Barrenjoey Road to allow for continued use during the day. 
       
      We would like to sincerely thank you for your patience and understanding while we do this essential work.


      Contact us  
      For more information on our work along Old Barrenjoey Road, please visit our website.

      If you have any questions or concerns or would like to know more about this work – you can contact our community engagement team on 1800 943 119 or confluence@sydneywater.com.au. For other Sydney Water repairs or faults, please call 13 20 90 (24 hours). 

      Thank you again for your understanding during this essential work. 

      Sydney Water & Confluence Water project team 

      Nominate a Volunteer Today: 2025 Awards

      Nominations have now opened for the 2025 NSW Volunteer of the Year awards which recognise the outstanding efforts of the 4.3 million volunteers in NSW.

      Member for Manly, James Griffin said volunteering is incredibly valuable to local communities, with a range of community groups including sporting organisations relying on the hard work of volunteers. 

      “Volunteers contribute $178 billion to the NSW economy, and I know here locally, our community just wouldn’t work as it does, without the dedication of volunteers,” Mr Griffin said.

      “In many ways, volunteers are the backbone of our communities, and that is particularly true in the Manly electorate.

      “From our service clubs, emergency services, church groups, hospital auxiliaries and sporting clubs, there are those who work tirelessly to make our part of the world a better place to live.

      “There are countless projects and initiatives in our electorate that simply would never have happened without the work of volunteers, and I sincerely thank everyone who sacrifices their time for the betterment of our communities,” Mr Griffin said.

      “If you know someone who deserves to be recognised as part of the 2025 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, I encourage you to lodge your nomination promptly,” he said.

      The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards are an annual program aimed at recognising the incredible dedication, effort and community service of our state’s volunteers, volunteer leaders and volunteer teams.

      Nominations for the 2025 awards are now open and close on Friday 23rd of May 2025.

      To learn more about the awards, please visit The Centre for Volunteering website at The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards - The Centre for Volunteering.

      New Wyong Safe Haven offers mental health support

      The Minns Government officially opened a new Safe Haven at Wyong on Friday 11 April 2025, providing additional free support for people who are experiencing mental health distress in the Central Coast.

      The Wyong Safe Haven will offer immediate support for people seeking support for suicidal thoughts or distress, offering a safe and welcoming alternative to emergency departments.

      The new service is the second Safe Haven available in the region and will provide support closer to home for people living in the northern part of the Central Coast.

      The service will have a strong focus on providing culturally safe care delivered by Aboriginal suicide prevention peer workers, to support the region’s Aboriginal community.

      There is no need for an appointment or a medical referral to attend Wyong Safe Haven – everyone is free to drop in. Carers can also access the service for support in helping their loved ones.

      Wyong Safe Haven features a peaceful outdoor area and yarning circle, along with a calming space featuring local Aboriginal artwork, creating a sense of connection and belonging for local Aboriginal residents visiting the haven.

      People attending will be greeted by a peer worker and can use the space in a way that is most helpful to them at the time. This might be having a cuppa and a yarn or having a quiet moment in the outdoor space. 

      Wyong Safe Haven is located on the grounds of Wyong Hospital, near Wyong Mental Health Centre.

      The Safe Haven is currently open from 9 am to 3:30 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with hours to increase in the coming months. The service is expected to be open five days per week by mid-year.

      The Mental Health Line is also available 24/7 on 1800 011 511 to connect people to other mental health services. In an emergency, please call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

      Wyong Safe Haven is part of the NSW Government’s Towards Zero Suicides initiative. 

      Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said:

      “We are committed to increasing suicide prevention supports for regional communities, including those in the Central Coast, as part of our aim to reduce the suicide rate across NSW.

      “This will be the 22nd Safe Haven located on or near hospital grounds across NSW, providing a refuge for anyone struggling with mental health challenges to come and seek help in a quiet, welcoming and non-judgemental space.

      “Central Coast residents who are feeling distressed are encouraged to access help at Wyong or Gosford Safe Havens, where they will be able to talk to peer workers who have a lived experience with suicide and recovery.”

      Minister for the Central Coast and Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris said:

      “In the last year there have been 1,600 presentations to the Safe Haven at Gosford Hospital. This reinforces how important these services are.

      “It is great to see the Safe Haven service now available and more easily accessible for everyone living in the northern parts of the Central Coast.

      “With Aboriginal identified peer workers among the staff it will help us close the gap by supporting a cultural social-emotional and wellbeing perspective approach to a suicide crisis.”

      National worker registration scheme feedback

      The Australian Government is seeking views on the design of a national registration scheme to support personal care workers employed in aged care, including new training and mandatory minimum qualification requirements.

      The scheme will support the growth of a strengthened and skilled aged care workforce, where personal care workers are better valued for the important role they perform, and with greater professional development opportunities and improved conditions.
       
      It will also play an important role in ensuring aged care is a safe place with appropriate protections for older people.
       
      Older people, their friends and family, supporters, advocates, care and support providers and workers, and training organisations and providers are invited to have their say by completing a short survey or providing a written submission by email.
       
      To find out more, visit Have your say on the design of a national registration scheme for personal care workers in aged care - Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care - Citizen Space
       
      The consultation is open until 17 April 2025.

      Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 Recycling Batteries: at Mona Vale + Avalon Beach

      Over 18,600 tonnes of batteries are discarded to landfill in Australia each year, even though 95% of a battery can be recycled!

      That’s why we are rolling out battery recycling units across our stores! Our battery recycling units accept household, button cell, laptop, and power tool batteries as well as mobile phones! 

      How To Dispose Of Your Batteries Safely: 

      1. Collect Your Used Batteries: Gather all used batteries from your home. Our battery recycling units accept batteries from a wide range of products such as household, button cell, laptop, and power tool batteries.
      2. Tape Your Terminals: Tape the terminals of used batteries with clear sticky tape.
      3. Drop Them Off: Come and visit your nearest participating store to recycle your batteries for free (at Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 Mona Vale and Avalon Beach).
      4. Feel Good About Your Impact: By recycling your batteries, you're helping support a healthier planet by keeping hazardous material out of landfills and conserving resources.

      Environmental Benefits

      • Reduces hazardous waste in landfill
      • Conserves natural resources by promoting the use of recycled materials
      • Keep toxic materials out of waterways 

       

      Click on logo above to visit their website.

      Wedding Island

      Is there anything better than a Scotland Island wedding or a comedy in its Community Hall? In May 2025 we bring you both!
      The team who last year brought you 'Secret Island' returns with another hilarious comedy. Once again written by that elusive islander Bogue Anthill, 'Wedding Island' is directed by Elvina Bay resident Sophie Lepowic. 

      The cast includes (in order of appearance) May Blackband, Roy Baker, Alix Ah-Pet, Nettie Lodge, Sophie Lepowic, Mara Syngros, Jess McGowan, Larry Woods, Ian White and Lizzie Brand. Stage management is by Gilli Unwin.

      'Secret Island' was a sell-out, so don't miss 'Wedding Island'. A nubile couple, seventy rowdy guests and a frisky brush turkey. What could possibly go wrong?

      A special ferry will depart from the island (Tennis Court wharf) at the end of the first night's performance (9 May), returning audience members to the mainland (Church Point).



      Island Café: Catherine Park, Scotland Island

      Pittwater Vessel Thefts: Appeal for Information

      Broken Bay Water Police are investigating a recent spate of vessel thefts and attempted thefts from the Careel Bay, Clareville and Bayview areas of Pittwater.

      Several vessels have been targeted for high-powered 200 and 300 hp Yamaha and Mercury engines as well as some engine legs. 

      Offenders are targeting vessels in the early hours of the morning, removing the engines from the vessels whilst still on the water.  

      Police are currently reviewing CCTV footage provided by several witnesses in an attempt to identify the perpetrators.

      Police are appealing to members of the community with any information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Broken Bay Water Police directly - Phone: 02 9910 7899.



      Photos: Marine Area Command - NSW Police Force

      Marine Rescue Broken Bay News 

      Saturday April 12 2025
      Congratulations to Michael Clinen for receiving his 10 year service medal. Thankyou for your years of volunteering. 


      Congratulations to Steph Minshall for achieving the Coxswain Restricted rating. Well done Steph.


      Photos: MRBB Unit

      Partnership Expands Drone Operations Out of Sight

      The exciting future of drone operations in emergency response continues to evolve, with a partnership between Surf Life Saving NSW (SLSNSW) and Babcock Australasia (Babcock) exploring a series of short and long-term goals for the lifesaving technology. 

      A MOU signed on 10 April proposes, at its core, the potential to enhance the air observation and intelligence-gathering capabilities of the Australian Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle Service (AUAVS) – SLSNSW’s drone services arm – for search and rescue, environmental monitoring and maritime operations. 

      Babcock – a trusted platform provider in the fields of defence, aviation and critical services, aiding the Australian and New Zealand Defence Forces, among other clients – will also work to support and boost existing service deliveries and expand operations into the Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) space. 

      “This partnership presents some really exciting opportunities for the Australian UAV Service to continue to harness and expand the potential of drones as a lifesaving device,” AUAVS Manager, James Bassam said. 

      “Perhaps most exciting is that this doesn’t just mean along the coastline either.   

      “It’s an opportunity for us to enhance the scale and quality of our existing services, but also push ourselves into the next phase of operations and expand beyond lifesaving services, which hopefully will put us at the forefront of drone-enabled disaster management and emergency response.” 

      In leveraging Babcock’s long-range Remote Pilot Aircraft System (RPAS), the AUAVS is well-positioned to take the learnings from the NSW Government-funded ‘Long Range UAV Project’ – which most notably included a week-long testing phase of the effectiveness of various operating systems in key drone operations in mid-2023 – and progress naturally through to the next phase of development. 

      Recent initiatives such as the Drone in a Box (DIAB) capability have aimed to position the AUAVS for long term deployment of a comprehensive and multi-purpose Long Range BVLOS capability. 

      Babcock now takes on a major role in this process, both in the immediate future and longer term.  

      The AUAVS stands to benefit from modernised and expanded coastal capabilities. In search and rescue response specifically, this will manifest as greater operational agility, real-time data collection, and increased reach. 

      On a broader level, the pathway to further evolution also intends to position the AUAVS as a national disaster prevention asset. 

      “We know how important surveillance along our beaches and waterways can be, particularly in summer, so we welcome the opportunity to partner with AUAVS and utilise our aviation expertise to develop and deliver transformative long-range technologies and services that will help save lives,” Babcock Australasia CEO, Andrew Cridland said.  

      “It forms part of Babcock’s commitment to creating a safe and secure world, together.” 

      “Proactive and reactive missions, such as search and rescue, will benefit from greater operational agility, real-time data collection, and increased reach,” SLSNSW CEO, Steve Pearce said. 

      “This will substantially improve detection, response times and success rates in both localised and large-scale incidents. 

      “The partnership will modernise and extend the capabilities of Surf Life Saving’s coastal and emergency response operations.” 

      Expert youth crime panel announced for Applied Research in Crime and Justice Conference

      BOCSAR is excited to announce the fourth keynote session at this year’s Applied Research in Crime and Justice Conference. 

      Our Expert Youth Crime Panel will consider patterns in youth crime and discuss how policy and practice can be reformed to improve outcomes for community and young people. Panellists include:  
      • Anne Hollonds Australia’s National Children’s Commissioner
      • Peta MacGillivray Senior Research Fellow UNSW - Yuwaya Ngarra-li Partnership
      • Superintendent Greg Moore Commander - NSW Police
      • Judge Nell Skinner President of the NSW Children’s Court
      • Jackie Fitzgerald Executive Director – BOCSAR
      • Dr Garner Clancey Associate Professor in Criminology – University of Sydney
      Register now to secure your place at the two-day conference and take advantage of significant early-bird discounts! Tickets sold out in both 2023 and 2024 so get in soon. 

      The Applied Research in Crime and Justice Conference will be held 4 & 5 August 2025 at the International Convention Centre, Sydney.

      Consultation on Bus Stop Relocation: Barrenjoey Road Palm Beach

      Dear Editor,
      The council advises that development consent has been granted through the Land and Environment Court for a shop top housing development at No.s 1112-1116 Barrenjoey Road. 

      One of the conditions of development consent requires the developer to seek approval for the relocation of the bus stop to a new location outside No.1102 Barrenjoey Road in order for the developer to facilitate using the current bus stop position for their DA's proposed driveway to their underground carpark.

      The developer has, in liaison with TfNSW and its bus services contractor Keolis Downer prepared a concept plan for the required work.

      Barrenjoey Road is a State Road under the management of Transport for NSW (TfNSW), and they would ultimately be responsible for approving any required changes to the signposted parking and Bus Zone restrictions, but Council would like to provide an opportunity for the community to provide feedback on the proposed changes.

      We have been informed the concept plan, attached, is indicative only and may be subject to change following consideration of feedback:


      The project team would like residents feedback on this proposal by visiting the following URL: 
      You will then be directed to an online form.
      Comments close on 4 May 2025.

      For your response to be considered include your name and address. Please note that individual responses to submissions will not be given. 

      Once feedback has been reviewed, the feedback will be provided to TfNSW and a report noting their decision on the matter presented to the Local Traffic Committee for the information of the Committee.

      Could you please ensure the wider community is apprised of the mooted changes.

      Two Palm Beach Residents

      Proposed Road Reserve Closure - Council Land Sale Avalon Beach

      Friday March 28, 2025
      Notice is hereby given that Council proposes to close the council public road reserve adjoining 9 Careel Head Road and 38 Burrawong Road Avalon Beach.

      The purpose of the proposed road reserve closure is to enable the sale of the subject land to the adjoining owner, subject to retaining the same number of public car park spaces (including in any future development of the site) to be controlled by Council.

      The road reserve adjoining Lot 1 DP 622354 is a parallelogram with dimensions of 12.58 metres by 22.86 metres and an area of 251.5 square metres.

      The road reserve adjoining SP 16792 is approximately a parallelogram, with one curved edge, with dimensions of 12.575 metres by 19.43 metres by 9.525 metres by 16.38 metres and an area of 211.6 square metres. 

      Please refer to notification plan identifying the proposed road reserve closure:


      This road reserve land, containing public car parking spaces, was dedicated to the then Warringah Shire Council at no cost on 21 August 1979 and 20 April 1982 as part of Building Application approvals for development (3986/78 and A1126/76), specifically for public car parking.

      If the land is disposed of by sale, the proceeds of sale (less the costs of the sale) are to be paid to Council. Money received by Council from the proceeds of sale of the land is not to be used by Council except for acquiring land for public roads or for carrying out road work on public roads.

      Any person is entitled to make submissions concerning the proposal within 28 days of the date of this public notice. 
      Submissions close Saturday April 26 2025.

      You can make a submission in one of the following ways:

      In writing: Northern Beaches Council, PO Box 82, Manly NSW, 1655.

      Once the submission period is completed, Council will consider all duly made submissions before deciding whether to continue with the road reserve closure proposal.

      This public notice is in accordance with Section 38B of the Roads Act 1993.

      ANZAC Day 2025 Commemoration Services

      Sunday 13 April:

      • Dee Why RSL – 3pm Commemoration Service, Club Memorial Garden

      Forestville RSVL – 2.40pm March to RSL Club followed by service from 3 - 3.40pm

      Information: March steps off at 1440 on Sunday 13 April and heads South on Starkey Street to Violet Street then West on Violet Street and Bushland Ave to the RSL Club on Melwood Ave. The march will be led by the Manly Warringah Pipe Band and will include veterans, cadets, guides and scouts, the Davidson Bush Fire Brigade and NSW police escorts.

      Information: The Commemoration Service will be held in the carpark of the RSL Club on Sunday 13 April, following the march

      Narrabeen RSL Sub-Branch ANZAC Day 2025 Commemoration

      Time: 11.30am march from Narrabeen Surf Club to Narrabeen Cenotaph, followed by service.

      Date: Sunday April 20

      Wednesday 23 April

      RSL LifeCare ANZAC Village (The War Vets) – 9.30-10am village march and service

      Friday 25 April

      Forestville ANZAC Day 2025 Commemoration

      Dawn Service

      Address: 22 Melwood Avenue, Forestville NSW, Australia View on Google Maps

      Time: 5:30 am

      Date: Friday 25 April

      Information: The Dawn Service will be conducted around the Forestville RSL Club Cenotaph and will be followed by breakfast in the Club for all attendees who wish to participate.

      Collaroy RSL sub-Branch ANZAC Day 2025 Commemoration

      Address: Collaroy Beach, New South Wales, Australia View on Google Maps

      Time: 5:00 pm

      Date: Friday 25 April

      Information: Sunset Service on the Beach.

      RSL LifeCare ANZAC Village (The War Vets) Dawn Service

      Date: 6am Veterans Parade Cenotaph

      Pittwater RSL sub-Branch ANZAC Day 2025 Commemoration

      Date: Friday 25th April Anzac Day 2025 

      Address: 82 Mona Vale Rd, Mona Vale

      Please join us at the lower cenotaph at 5:20am for the Dawn Service in remembrance and gratitude to honour Anzac Day - Breakfast to follow at 6.30am . ALL WELCOME!

      Newport Anzac Day Dawn Service 2025

      Time: 5.30 am

      Address: Trafalgar Park Cenotaph, Gladstone Street, Newport

      This year we are delighted to welcome Brigadier Georgina Whelan to deliver the address at the Newport Anzac Day Dawn Service. 

      The community with gather once again under the trees (and the kookaburras) to remember those who have served our wonderful country.

      Church Point

      On Anzac Day, April 25th, there will be a commemoration service at Thomas Stephens Reserve in Church Point, starting at 10:45 am. All Welcome.

      Bilgola

      8.30am for an 8.45am start, Surf Life Saving (SLS) Anzac Day Memorial Service and March Past, outside Bilgola Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC), The Serpentine, Bilgola Beach. Bar open at 1.00pm, with Two-up in the BBQ area. Hosted by Bilgola SLSC.

      Avalon Beach RSL sub-Branch ANZAC Day 2025 Commemoration

      Avalon Beach RSL sub-Branch

      Address: Avalon Beach RSL Club 1 Bowling Green Lane AVALON BEACH NSW 2107

      Email: Avalon-BeachSB@rslnsw.org.au

      Phone: 02 9883 9815

      Dawn Service

      Address: Dunbar Park, Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon Beach NSW, Australia View on Google Maps

      Time: 5:30 am

      Date: Friday 25 April

      Service: 0550 am – Members Assemble 0540 am – Dawn Service Commences This service will be conducted by Commodore Richard Menhinick AM,CSC, RAN, the President of Avalon Beach RSL Sub Branch, assisted by Paul Sinclair, the President of Avalon Beach RSL Club Limited. After the ceremony is complete, please join us veterans in the RSL Club and enjoy an egg and bacon roll for a small donation.

      March

      Address: Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon Beach NSW, Australia View on Google Maps

      Time: 11:00 am

      Date: Friday 25 April

      Information: The march will gather at 1030 for an 1100 start out front of Avalon Public School on Old Barrenjoey Rd, it will then turn left onto Avalon Parade and right onto Bowling green Lane. From there those marching will turn into Dunbar Park and disperse into the arranged seating.

      Main Service Address: Dunbar Park, Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon Beach NSW, Australia View on Google Maps

      Time: 11:40 am

      Date: Friday 25 April

      Information: Once the March has concluded, our service will be conducted by Commodore Richard Menhinick AM, CSC, RAN, the President of Avalon Beach RSL Sub-Branch. He will be joined by LCDR Tamara Sloper-Harding, Vice-President of Avalon Beach RSL Sub-Branch and our Guest Speaker, Colonel Brad Robertson CSC, president of the veteran’s charity, Carry On. Once completed, please join our veterans in the RSL Club and enjoy refreshments, lunch and later on Two Up from 1.00pm to 7.00pm in the Surf Lounge on level 1 - if you wish and are 18 or older.

      Whale Beach

      ANZAC DAY dawn service will be held at Whale Beach at 6am in front of the Surf Club.  Conducted by Palm Beach RSL sub-Branch and Whale Beach SLSC.

      Palm Beach RSL sub-Branch ANZAC Day 2025 Commemoration

      1087 Barrenjoey Road, Palm Beach

      March

      Time: 10.45am March from Iluka road to Palm Beach RSL, followed by Service.

      Date: Friday 25 April

      Followed by Veterans Lunch in the club.

      Two-Up from 1pm in back paddock.

      Slow Down: Wildlife Crossing

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


       
      Photo: Phoebe the Swamp Wallaby by Jane Notice

      Letters to the Editor

      Letters should preferably be 150 to 175 words, but that remains optional. Letters must include the writer's address and phone number and 'permission to publish'.  The editor's prerogative includes editing letters for length, grammar or legal reasons.  Email: pittwateronlinenews@live.com.au

      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 Residents Association

      Mona Vale Residents Association is a community group encouraging involvement on important matters within the Mona Vale area. Email: mvrasydney@gmail.com


      Report Hate Crimes

      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.  

      Week One April 2025 (March 31 - April 6)

      Front Page Issue 641

      Week One April 2025 (March 31 - April 6)

      NB: The 2025 Australian Surf Life Saving Championships 'wrap' will run Sunday April 13 

      Bilgola Big Winner in 2024-25 NSW Government's Surf Club Facilities Grants: Over 1.3 Million allocated to local clubs

      Australian Boardriders Battle 2025 Grand Final: Seven Local Clubs Have Qualified - runs next weekend 12-13 April and will be broadcast LIVE

      Pictures: McCarrs Creek Public Jetty, Brown's Bay Public Jetty, Rostrevor Reserve, Cargo Wharf, Church Point Public Wharf: a few pictures from the Site Investigations for Pittwater Public Wharves History series 2024-25

      Aquatics: It’s on for young and old in Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race by Di Pearson

      Bonnie Harvey announced as Greens Candidate for Warringah 2025

      Marine Rescue NSW to host International Maritime Rescue Federation events in August

      Food: The Waterfront Café & General Store: Lunch at 'On The Deck'

      Park Bench Philosophers: Good news beach lovers: our research found 39% less plastic waste around Australian coastal cities than a decade ago - CSIRO

      DIY Ideas: BOM's Autumn 2025 Forecast Makes this Season Great for Garden Care + What to Plant Now

      Environment Whale Entanglement Rescue Training: Marine Rescue Broken Bay & Cottage Point, Beach Clean - North Narrabeen: Sunday April 6 at 4pm, Flooding at Middle Creek Reserve /Boat Ramp  Cycle/Footpath + Narrabeen Lagoon update, Pittwater Natural Heritage Association - Autumn 2025 Newsletter, Billions of litres of polluted coal mine water flowing into Great Barrier Reef + Olympic rowing venue, UNSW researchers take to the skies with airborne sensor for environmental studies, Australia’s first Renewable Energy Zone, Government’s $2.5 million co-investment fund to unearth new critical minerals deposits, Central Coast Wetlands – Pioneer Dairy parkrun back on track, Environmental water for Gol Gol Lake, Have your say on the NSW Freshwater Fish Stocking Plan, Update on EPA debris balls investigation, Recovering corellas returning home, Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 Recycling Batteries: at Mona Vale + Avalon Beach, ‘1080 pest management’, Reporting Dogs Offleash - Dog Attacks to Council, Plastic Bread Ties For Wheelchairs, Volunteers for Barrenjoey Lighthouse Tours needed, Stay Safe From Mosquitoes, Mountain Bike Incidents On Public Land, Report fox sightings, marine wildlife rescue group on the Central Coast, Watch out - shorebirds about, Possums In Your Roof?: do the right thing, Aviaries + Possum Release Sites Needed, Bushcare in Pittwater: where + when, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment Activities, Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations in Pittwater, Ringtail Posses, Are turtles not safe in the estuary?, What are Labor and the Coalition offering on the energy transition, climate adaptation and emissions this election?, Australians want nature protected; These 3 environmental problems should be top of the next government’s to-do list, It’s not easy being a street tree but this heroic eucalypt withstands everything we throw at it, Scientists worked with Warlpiri to track down bilby poo – and uncover clues to help conserve these iconic animals, Flies are masters of migration – it’s about time they got some credit, 1 trillion species over 3 billion years: how we used AI to trace the evolution of bacteria on Earth, Hosting the UN climate summit is far from ‘madness’ – here’s how Australia stands to benefit, Brisbane 2032 is no longer legally bound to be ‘climate positive’; Will it still leave a green legacy?, Under a Coalition government the fate of Australia’s central climate policy hangs in the balance, Torrential rains created devastating inland seas in outback Queensland; Soon they will fill Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre, Global warming of more than 3°C this century may wipe 40% off the world’s economy, Pittwater Reserves: histories + Walks, Birds, + 

      Inbox News Public Health Warning: Nitazenes found in counterfeit oxycodone tablets in NSW, Nasa’s Curiosity rover has found the longest chain carbon molecules yet on Mars. It’s a significant finding in the search for alien life, New intake of paramedics and control staff for NSW Ambulance, Bega Water Treatment Plant now open, Heroin found in cocaine and ‘ice’ and snorting a line can be lethal, Rise in motorcyclist deaths to be addressed at upcoming NSW roundtable, Launch of in-house expert network continues NSW Government’s efforts to rein in consultant costs, Minns NSW Government launches Publicly accessible State agency league tables, What are caretaker conventions and how do they limit governments during election periods?, Fitting the ‘missing puzzle pieces’ – research sheds light on the deep history of social change in West Papua, ‘It is a seriously difficult role and only getting harder’: school principals speak about stress, violence and abuse in their jobs, Menthol cigarettes will be banned from April 1. Here’s why – and what else is changing, Why do I get headaches when I exercise; even when I drink lots of water?, A ban on price gouging and new powers to break up supermarkets are on the table this election. Would either work?, ‘Shame, disgust, horror’: Kate Grenville faces her family history of stolen land in Australia – and asks us to feel it with her, ‘Sorry mate, I didn’t see you’: when drivers look but don’t see cyclists on the road, Keep an eye on the Senate – the people elected to it this year will have immense power for years to come, Cancer patients from migrant backgrounds have a 1 in 3 chance of something going wrong in their care, ‘Behind every claim is a grieving family’. Death benefits inquiry demands change but lacks penalties, 2025 Federal Election Statement: COTA, Manly-Warringah Choir: 50 Years Concerts, Do infectious diseases cause dementia? UNSW's AI will be looking into it, Rent assistance needs boost as research shows too many locked out of rentals: COTA, A new COVID variant is on the rise; Here’s what to know about LP.8.1, Astronomers listened to the ‘music’ of flickering stars – and discovered an unexpected feature, ‘Curiosity-driven research’ led to a recent major medical breakthrough; But it’s under threat, Flu vaccines are now available for 2025; What’s on offer and which one should I get?, Margot Robbie’s Wuthering Heights dress is inaccurate but not because it’s white – an expert explains, People are getting costly stem cell injections for knee osteoarthritis; But we don’t know if they work, The lore of ‘lore’ – how fandoms created an online phenomenon from an Old English word, New South Wales Win Inaugural Pathways Interstate Championships, New strategy to boost university pathways and workforce readiness in NSW, Through Education and Commemoration ANZAC Day Serves as a Bridge Between Past and Present, RSL and Schools Remember ANZAC Commemoration Address by Abby Peterson-Hampshire,  Careers in the NSW Marine Estate - Fisheries Manager Shane McGrath, Opportunities: Band Comp. at Palm Beach, SHAPE 2025 + Council's 2025 Environmental Art & Design Prize judges announced - Entries open now, Youth Week creative arts competition: ACYP + NSW Youth Week 2025 + NSW Youth Advisory Council: applications open until April 20 + 2025 Game Changer Challenge + Learner drivers benefit as more resources become available online + NSW History Awards 2025: Submissions are now open, Word Of The Week: Motto, The lore of ‘lore’ – how fandoms created an online phenomenon from an Old English word, The bizarre-looking dinosaur challenging what we know about the evolution of fingers, Astronomers listened to the ‘music’ of flickering stars – and discovered an unexpected feature, Margot Robbie’s Wuthering Heights dress is inaccurate, but not because it’s white – an expert explains, Is TikTok right? Do I need to eat more protein?, What are caretaker conventions and how do they limit governments during election periods?, Step length, a devastating finish and ‘springs in his spikes’: the science behind Gout Gout’s speed, Meta allegedly used pirated books to train AI. Australian authors have objected, but US courts may decide if this is ‘fair use’, ChatGPT’s Studio Ghibli-style images show its creative power – but raise new copyright problems, Why do I get headaches when I exercise even when I drink lots of water?, The best space telescope you never heard of just shut down, In Ancient Greece and Rome, who were the harpies, and why did they stink so much?

      2025 Federal Election Questions for Candidates: Send yours in now + Enrolment details (closes April 7) + Postal Votes + Key Dates from the AEC

      ANZAC Day 2025 Commemoration Services: when and where

      Council Review of Alcohol Free Zones: Feedback closes April 27 2025 - changes for some areas proposed

      Digital Parking permits coming for across the Peninsula + CellOPark Dispute 2024-2025 + NSW Government's Ticketless Parking Reforms and Consultation on Equal Access to Beach Parking Permits (open until April 17 2025)

      NSW Pet Laws (dog and cat regulations) go under the microscope - Have your say until May 4

      Scamps' Call for Residential Battery Subsidies May Ease Council's EV-Charging Stations Dilemma + Solar for Apartment Residents incentive open until December 31 + EV and Hybrid vehicle data for our area by postcode + NSW Inquiry into Infrastructure for electric and alternative energy source vehicles in NSW (closing date for submissions is Friday 2 May 2025) + ‘A house battery you can drive around’: how a handful of Australians are selling power from their cars back to the grid 

      Minns Government Announces 'Joe's Law' to End Private-Public Hospital Model As Inquiry into Safety and Quality of Services at Northern Beach Hospital Opens for Submissions Submissions close May 20 2025

      Monika's Doggie Rescue: 3 x Chihuahua Pup Litters need ongoing care

      Boaters reminded not to get complacent on the water: MRNSW's February 2025 Rescues - Boating Season Closes Anzac Day 2025

      Profile of the Week Richard Jeffery Is Working to Reinstall the North Bilgola Lookout Direction Indicator: photos of Surface or original Casting plans needed

      Those who visited the North Bilgola Lookout during the 1980’s and early 1990’s will remember a direction marker or toposcope of brass installed on the stone plinth that still stands in the centre of this lookout today.

      The original, made of brass, was unveiled in June 1988 as a present to the community from the Rotary Club of Pittwater.

      Having seen it and photographed, but now being unable to locate those images (yet), we recall it as being a simple version flat version with lines pointing to geographical features alike that atop Barrenjoey headland.

      Others recall something more elaborate, alike that raised surface map at Long Reef point.

      Around 20 years later, someone stole it - probably due to the value of material it had been cast from. 

      Now Richard Jeffery, who has been looking after the lookout for years, wants the North Bilgola Direction Indicator replaced. But first he needs to locate either a photo of the surface which shows how it was or the plans used to cast the sphere. 

      This Issue a few insights from Richard on this project.


        Placed where Pittwater road merges with Mc Carr’s Creek road at 1 McCarrs Creek Road, on the high side, and overlooking Pittwater, was one of our earliest landmarks was a wooden chapel constructed to serve the people of Bayview and Church Point. Measuring 25 feet by 18 feet and built in 1872 a congregation moved from services under loquat trees to hymns within this structure. 

        The structure is reported to have given its name to the land as ‘Chapel Point’. However, soon the site was known as Church Point. The Aboriginal name is recorded as ‘Whurra Whurra’ although this is listed elsewhere as meaning ‘go away’ and ‘go home’ and may have been misinterpreted. 

        The land, as 'God's acre' was gifted to the community from a land grant to William Oliver. 

        The original joint tenants, as per the Certificate of Title, dated November 8, 1871, were George McIntosh, William Oliver, James Jones, Thomas Oliver, John Alderton, William Baker, all following the occupation of farmers, and residing at Pittwater, and William Henry McKeown, of Lane Cove, also a farmer.

        This Issue a look into how this little chapel became the first 'Pittwater school' on the estuary and how the community saved its cemetery from being sold during the 1970's to 1981.

        Pittwater Offshore Newsletter:

        April 1 2025

        The Coochie Bus: Tales of Two Islands; 'Wedding Island' Fiasco; Supporting Your Island Firies; Island Café notice; Robertson Boulevard Wall Party; Moon Dance: The Wall; Woody Point AGM; Feast for Freedom; Easter Egg Hunt; Anzac Day Memorial Service; International Folk Dancing; Wedding Island; Native plants for sale

        Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

        To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

        Avalon Quilters 'The Sum of Us' Raffle Quilt for Mito Foundation

        The Avalon Quilters with the 2025 raffle quilt, “The Sum Of Us”.

        The Avalon Quilters have an amazing raffle quilt they have made to raise funds for the Mito Foundation. 

        The quilt, appropriately named “The Sum Of Us”, was made last year by Avalon Quilter’s 25 members. It is completely handmade and totals over 4500 one-inch pieces, then finished off with hand quilting.

        Details show the personal and colourful choices made by Avalon Quilters for each piece, underlining the title of this beautiful quilt.

        Raffle tickets at $2 each, are available from members, who meet in the Uniting Church at Avalon every Thursday, 10-2.30,  at Patchwork on Pittwater at Mona Vale, and Avalon Fabrics and Craft, in Avalon Parade. 

        The raffle will be drawn at Easter.

        All tickets sales will go to the Mito Foundation, which Avalon Quilters have been supporting for over a decade through making raffle quilts. 

        The Mito Foundation supports people affected by mitochondrial disease (mito), funds essential research into the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cures of mitochondrial disorders, and increases awareness and education about mito. 

        Mitochondria are the power houses of the cell providing the body with over 90% of the energy it needs to sustain life. Mitochondria take in sugars and proteins from the food we eat and produce energy called ATP that our bodies use to function properly. Mitochondrial disease (mito) is a debilitating and potentially fatal disease that reduces the ability of the mitochondria to produce this energy. When the mitochondria are not working properly, cells begin to die until eventually whole organ systems fail and the patient's life itself is compromised.

        The Mito Foundation was founded in 2009 by Pittwater residents Doug and Margie Lingard, their friends, and experts in the field of mitochondrial disease (mito). 

        Wedding Island

        Is there anything better than a Scotland Island wedding or a comedy in its Community Hall? In May 2025 we bring you both!
        The team who last year brought you 'Secret Island' returns with another hilarious comedy. Once again written by that elusive islander Bogue Anthill, 'Wedding Island' is directed by Elvina Bay resident Sophie Lepowic. 

        The cast includes (in order of appearance) May Blackband, Roy Baker, Alix Ah-Pet, Nettie Lodge, Sophie Lepowic, Mara Syngros, Jess McGowan, Larry Woods, Ian White and Lizzie Brand. Stage management is by Gilli Unwin.

        'Secret Island' was a sell-out, so don't miss 'Wedding Island'. A nubile couple, seventy rowdy guests and a frisky brush turkey. What could possibly go wrong?

        A special ferry will depart from the island (Tennis Court wharf) at the end of the first night's performance (9 May), returning audience members to the mainland (Church Point).



        Island Café: Catherine Park, Scotland Island

        Pittwater Vessel Thefts: Appeal for Information

        Broken Bay Water Police are investigating a recent spate of vessel thefts and attempted thefts from the Careel Bay, Clareville and Bayview areas of Pittwater.

        Several vessels have been targeted for high-powered 200 and 300 hp Yamaha and Mercury engines as well as some engine legs. 

        Offenders are targeting vessels in the early hours of the morning, removing the engines from the vessels whilst still on the water.  

        Police are currently reviewing CCTV footage provided by several witnesses in an attempt to identify the perpetrators.

        Police are appealing to members of the community with any information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Broken Bay Water Police directly - Phone: 02 9910 7899.


        Photos: Marine Area Command - NSW Police Force

        Hard courts at Winnererremy Bay Park: Build Commences

        The Council announced on Wednesday April 2 that construction for a hard court facility at Winnererremy Bay Park Mona Vale has commenced.

        The new hard courts will be suitable for a range of sports, including basketball, netball, handball and pickleball.

        Mayor Sue Heins said the project aims to enhance the recreational facilities of the area, providing numerous benefits for the local community.

        “The project has been developed in consultation with the local community, ensuring the improvements will provide a fantastic space for residents of all ages to enjoy." Mayor Heins said. 

        "We are committed to creating vibrant and inclusive spaces for our community. 

        “These upgrades will not only enhance the recreational opportunities available but also improve the overall aesthetics and functionality of the area.”

        The project is part of the Council's broader Let’s Play! Open Space and Outdoor Recreation Strategy to invest in local infrastructure and promote active lifestyles. 

        The works are expected to be completed by the end of June 2025 and are funded by the NSW Government and Northern Beaches Council. 

        For more information, please visit the Council's project webpage. 

        Repairs for Palm Beach Rockpool To Commence

        Council stated on Tuesday April 1st the pool at Palm Beach will be out of action from Tuesday 8 to 11 April while it undertakes critical repairs to ensure its longevity and functionality.

        'The primary focus of the repairs at Palm Beach rockpool will be on replacing the broken valve that allows it to open and close the pool for its weekly spruce up.' council stated

        'The current valve is at risk of not being able to be kept closed so a new stainless-steel version, which promises a longer lifespan, will be installed. 

        'Patch repair work will also be carried out on the pool floor to address persistent leaks that have caused water loss and led to the pool's closure last year.'

        'Sydney’s northern beaches is home to 15 rockpools, that range anywhere from 50 to 100 years old. Despite a regular maintenance schedule these beloved community treasures have parts that wear out especially in harsh environments.

        Council is committed to maintaining and improving its recreational facilities to provide the long-term functionality, safety and best possible experience for residents and visitors. '

        'The rockpool will be closed during the works and reopened on Friday 11 April, weather and swell permitting.' the advice reads

        NSW Government receives Drug Summit report

        Thursday April 3, 2025: NSW Government Statement
        The NSW Government has today received the Drug Summit report from Co-Chairs Hon. Carmel Tebbutt and John Brogden AM.

        The Drug Summit delivered on an election commitment from the Minns Labor Government to bring together those with lived and living experience, frontline workers and experts in addiction and illicit drug use.

        The summit listened to over 400 participants as well as 3,600 written submissions, over four days across metropolitan Sydney, Griffith and Lismore.

        It sought to reflect the many different parts of our community touched by this challenge – healthcare, justice, housing, social services and those disproportionately impacted by illicit drugs.

        Not everyone agreed on everything, but we sought to have every voice listened to.

        I want to thank the Co-Chairs John Brogden and Carmel Tebbutt for their tireless efforts in facilitating discussion and reporting on it.

        The report has put forward 56 recommendations across key areas including prevention, early intervention, community support, stigma, workforce and reform.

        The Government will now carefully consider these findings and respond in due course.

        The report of the Drug Summit Co-Chairs is available on the NSW Drug Summit 2024 web page

        residential eating disorders centre opens in Charlestown

        April 4, 2025
        People living with eating disorders in NSW can now access specialist residential care with the opening of a new $13.5 million Residential Eating Disorders Centre in Newcastle.

        Named Baiyangbaiyaang, an Aboriginal name meaning ‘Butterfly - the one who flutters’, the two-storey, 12-bed facility in Charlestown is the first publicly funded service of its kind in NSW.

        Suitable for people aged 16 and older with a diagnosed eating disorder, the centre provides evidence-based interventions in a nurturing, home-like environment.

        Baiyangbaiyaang is designed to bridge the gap between community-based care and hospital admission, offering personalised service for those who are ready to take an active role in their recovery and enhance their quality of life.

        Residents may stay at the centre for up to three months, depending on their progress. They will receive individualised support from a multi-disciplinary team of specialists including psychiatrists, psychologists, dietitians, nurses, occupational therapists, exercise physiologists and social workers.

        A range of support and daily wellness activities will help residents increase their independence and continue their recovery journey at home, including psychotherapy, grocery shopping, cooking classes, and gentle movement sessions.

        The funding is part of a $63 million Commonwealth commitment to deliver seven eating disorder care centres nationally.

        Residential care will begin in the coming weeks, helping provide support for people across NSW. All referrals to the facility must be completed online by a treating practitioner. Admissions will be based on clinical presentation and need.

        The centre will complement other eating disorder services across NSW, including local health district day programs and community-based therapies.

        Residents and their families travelling long distances to the centre may also be eligible for travel and accommodation subsidies under the IPTAAS scheme.

        If you, or anyone you know, is experiencing an eating disorder or body image concerns, contact the Butterfly Foundation National Helpline on 1800 33 4673 (ED HOPE) or visit the Butterfly Foundation.

        NSW Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said:
        “This centre represents a massive step forward in how we support people living with eating disorders.

        “For the first time in NSW, those in need will have access to dedicated, publicly funded services to provide the care they deserve, supporting individuals and their families at a crucial point in their recovery journey.”

        Member for Charlestown Jodie Harrison MP said:
        “Baiyangbaiyaang is an important addition to the supports available to people living with eating disorders in Charlestown and the Newcastle area.

        “It presents a next step for them on the road to independence and improved wellbeing. It’s a great example of all levels of governments working together on important health issues in our communities.”

        The Hon. Emily Suvaal said:
        “Facilities like this can have a lasting positive impact and I’m very proud to see increased support for people with eating disorders.

        “Baiyanbaiyaang will offer life-saving support to people in a calm, safe and welcoming environment, guiding them on the road to recovery.”

        Director Mental Health Services, Hunter New England Local Health District Dr Anand Swamy said:
        “The centre will complement existing services, such as the state-wide Eating Disorders Day Program and community-based services.”

        CEO of the Butterfly Foundation Dr Jim Hungerford said:
        “For too long, people with eating disorders in NSW have struggled to access the specialised care they need. The Butterfly Foundation will continue to share our learnings and insights with the service.”

        Harmful LGBTQ+ conversion practices now banned in NSW

        April 4, 2025
        The NSW Government has announced LGBTQ+ conversion practices will be banned from today, Friday April 4 2025.  

        The Conversion Practices Ban Act 2024 makes conversion practices, which can include 'conversion therapy' and suppression practices, a crime punishable by up to five years’ imprisonment. 
         
        It also creates a scheme allowing civil complaints about conversion practices to be made to Anti-Discrimination NSW. 
         
        Conversion practices are based on the false ideology that LGBTQ+ people have a ‘disorder’ or require treatment.  
         
        This can include psychological or medical interventions, counselling, or subtle and repeated messages that LGBTQ+ people can change or suppress their sexual orientation or gender identity with faith or effort. 
         
        Anti-Discrimination NSW can investigate complaints about conversion practices occurring from 4 April 2025, and, if appropriate, try to resolve the matter through conciliation.  
         
        It can also refer matters to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal in certain circumstances. 
         
        It will also deliver information sessions and resources about the new law including free online videos and tools and referrals to support services.  
         
        Conversion practices inflict significant harm on members of the LGBTQ+ community. 
         
        People who deliver or preform conversion practices that cause substantial mental or physical harm face up to five years’ jail.  
         
        Taking someone out of NSW to deliver 'conversion therapy' carries a maximum three-year jail sentence.  
         
        The ban does not prevent general religious teaching or expressions of religious principles, or parental discussions with their children related to sexual orientation, gender identity, sexual activity or religion.  
         
        It is targeted at a practice, treatment or sustained effort directed at someone to change their sexual orientation or gender identity. 
         
        This follows ongoing work by the NSW Government to progress reforms that ensure all members of our community feel valued, respected and equal. 
         
        The Premier issued a formal apology last year to people convicted under discriminatory laws that criminalised homosexual acts, and the Government passed legislation that meant more of these offences were able to be extinguished. 
         
        In September, the NSW Government supported all 19 recommendations delivered by the Special Commission of Inquiry into LGBTIQ hate crimes, which examined the unsolved deaths of LGBTIQ people and found shortfalls in historical responses by the NSW Government. 
         
        The Government established the inaugural LGBTIQ+ Advisory Council, which is working to develop NSW’s first LGBTIQ+ Inclusion Strategy. 
         
        The Government supported the amended Equality Bill which passed NSW Parliament after being introduced by the Independent Member for Sydney Alex Greenwich. 
         
        Attorney General Michael Daley said on Friday:  
        “So-called ‘conversion therapy’ inflicts real and significant harm on members of the LGBTQ+ community.  
         
        “Everyone deserves to be respected for who they are. There is nothing ‘wrong’ with LGBTQ+ people. They do not need ‘fixing’ or to be ‘saved’. 
         
        “We are indebted to the survivors of this insidious practice who shared their experiences and advocated for this important reform.”  
         
        Minister for Health Ryan Park said:  
        “These sorts of practices are incredibly harmful and dangerous, and they have severe and lasting health impacts. 
         
        “Today, we’re bringing an end to them. 
         
        “I want to thank the many individuals and groups who engaged with the Government on this legislation, to make this ban a reality.” 
         
        Founder and CEO of Ambassadors and Bridge Builders International (ABBI) Anthony Venn-Brown OAM said:  
        “The ban on dangerous and discredited LGBTQA conversion practices is a welcome move.  
         
        “I grew up when being gay was a criminal offence and mental health professionals believed they could cure people of homosexuality.  
         
        “It caused me great stress and anxiety. I did everything to change it, including conversion ‘therapy’.  
         
        “I often thought of suicide. 
         
        “After coming out, I’ve spent decades supporting people who were told they were broken and needed ‘fixing’. Today, people are still taking their lives – or contemplating it – over this issue.  
         
        “LGBTQA people should be celebrated, accepted and affirmed. This law will protect vulnerable people from harm, save lives and make NSW a safer place for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.”  
         
        CEO of Equality Australia Anna Brown OAM said:  
        "We stand with victim survivors in welcoming this law which prohibits these archaic and harmful practices, which have already caused untold harm to LGBTQA people. 
         
        "Abuse dressed up as pastoral care or guidance is a breach of trust and power. Telling someone they are broken or sick because of who they are is profoundly psychologically damaging. 
         
        "Not only will this law save countless people from a lifetime of pain – and in some cases save lives – it also sends a powerful message that LGBTQA people are whole and valid, just as we are." 

        Consultation on Bus Stop Relocation: Barrenjoey Road Palm Beach

        Dear Editor,
        The council advises that development consent has been granted through the Land and Environment Court for a shop top housing development at No.s 1112-1116 Barrenjoey Road. 

        One of the conditions of development consent requires the developer to seek approval for the relocation of the bus stop to a new location outside No.1102 Barrenjoey Road in order for the developer to facilitate using the current bus stop position for their DA's proposed driveway to their underground carpark.

        The developer has, in liaison with TfNSW and its bus services contractor Keolis Downer prepared a concept plan for the required work.

        Barrenjoey Road is a State Road under the management of Transport for NSW (TfNSW), and they would ultimately be responsible for approving any required changes to the signposted parking and Bus Zone restrictions, but Council would like to provide an opportunity for the community to provide feedback on the proposed changes.

        We have been informed the concept plan, attached, is indicative only and may be subject to change following consideration of feedback:


        The project team would like residents feedback on this proposal by visiting the following URL: 
        You will then be directed to an online form.
        Comments close on 4 May 2025.

        For your response to be considered include your name and address. Please note that individual responses to submissions will not be given. 

        Once feedback has been reviewed, the feedback will be provided to TfNSW and a report noting their decision on the matter presented to the Local Traffic Committee for the information of the Committee.

        Could you please ensure the wider community is apprised of the mooted changes.

        Two Palm Beach Residents

        Change to Western Sydney Airport night time flight paths: now over Palm Beach! 

        Dear Pittwater Online News,

        This information has been provided by an eagle-eyed resident. Could you please ensure the community is aware of what is currently proposed.

        According to the revised Aircraft Noise Technical Paper (attached PDF 12MB - October 2024 document), all the departing night flights (and remember it is a 24 hour airport) after turning at Richmond RAAF base will fly in a direct line towards Barrenjoey Lighthouse at Pittwater.  

        This is currently Sydney's only listed urban dark sky area. While the details of the heights of the aircraft flights haven't been looked into by our diligent resident, in times of low cloud and inclement weather the aircraft fly lower. Has anyone noticed how low some aircraft are flying over Hornsby at times?  

        While the reports do not mention specific suburbs in the documentation read so far, our kind and helpful resident has worked out the following -

        All night time departures (11pm - 5.30am) from all runways from Western Sydney airport will be flying over Glenorie, Cowan, Berowra Waters and Muogamarra Nature Reserve then over West Head to just north of and over Barrenjoey Lighthouse and flying out to sea. The good folk of Palm Beach are in for a surprise!

        Only Runway 5 day time departures (5.30am - 11pm) will fly over Marramarra National Park, Mount White and then will fly over Copacabana and fly out to sea. 

        The reason given for the change is to reduce the impact on the Lower Blue Mountains community along the Great Western Highway. 

        To date there hasn't been anything in the media about this change. Might be time for people to be asking our Federal representative about this and putting it on local social media pages.

        Thank you for running this and remaining a news service, that is For, About and BY your community.

        The documents for the flight paths are able to be viewed at

        regards, 
        K.E., March 28, 2025

        Proposed Road Reserve Closure - Land adjoining 9 Careel Head Road and 38 Burrawong Road Avalon Beach

        Friday March 28, 2025
        Notice is hereby given that Council proposes to close the council public road reserve adjoining 9 Careel Head Road and 38 Burrawong Road Avalon Beach.

        The purpose of the proposed road reserve closure is to enable the sale of the subject land to the adjoining owner, subject to retaining the same number of public car park spaces (including in any future development of the site) to be controlled by Council.

        The road reserve adjoining Lot 1 DP 622354 is a parallelogram with dimensions of 12.58 metres by 22.86 metres and an area of 251.5 square metres.

        The road reserve adjoining SP 16792 is approximately a parallelogram, with one curved edge, with dimensions of 12.575 metres by 19.43 metres by 9.525 metres by 16.38 metres and an area of 211.6 square metres. 

        Please refer to notification plan identifying the proposed road reserve closure:


        This road reserve land, containing public car parking spaces, was dedicated to the then Warringah Shire Council at no cost on 21 August 1979 and 20 April 1982 as part of Building Application approvals for development (3986/78 and A1126/76), specifically for public car parking.

        If the land is disposed of by sale, the proceeds of sale (less the costs of the sale) are to be paid to Council. Money received by Council from the proceeds of sale of the land is not to be used by Council except for acquiring land for public roads or for carrying out road work on public roads.

        Any person is entitled to make submissions concerning the proposal within 28 days of the date of this public notice. 
        Submissions close Saturday April 26 2025.

        You can make a submission in one of the following ways:

        In writing: Northern Beaches Council, PO Box 82, Manly NSW, 1655.

        Once the submission period is completed, Council will consider all duly made submissions before deciding whether to continue with the road reserve closure proposal.

        This public notice is in accordance with Section 38B of the Roads Act 1993.

        Coles Newport Re-opening: Wednesday  April 9

        New technology brings interpreters on every police beat

        April 2, 2025
        The NSW Government has unveiled new technology that allows every police officer across NSW to access interpreting services 24/7.

        Language+ is a mobile application designed to facilitate more effective communication between police and community members who may not be fluent in English.

        The app features over 200 commonly used phrases translated and recorded in 29 languages.

        It also provides officers with direct access to a dedicated team of certified interpreters, ensuring critical information can be conveyed quickly and accurately.

        The app was soft launched last week and is now on 12,000 police devices.

        In that time, more than 1,500 users accessed the app.

        The Language+ app was developed by Multicultural NSW specifically for the NSW Police Force and in consultation with community and frontline officers.

        The app enables more effective communication between police and the community, fostering trust, improving engagement in day-to-day interactions, as well as being important in critical incidents.

        According to the 2021 Census, about 30 per cent of the people in NSW were born overseas, and more than one in four speak a language other than English at home.

        The app also helps streamline police resources, enabling officers to respond to incidents more quickly and efficiently, allowing them to move on to the next task.

        Minister for Police Yasmin Catley said:
        “The NSW Government and NSW Police Force are dedicated to supporting every community and as our multicultural landscape evolves, we're evolving the systems that help police do their job more effectively.

        "Being a police officer is more demanding than ever, but with new technology, we're making it easier for them to serve and protect the community.

        "Language+ gives every front-line officer instant access to professional Multicultural NSW interpreters, 24/7 - so they have the tools and confidence to keep our communities safe."

        NSW Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said:
        “The new Language+ app ensures more effective communication between police and the community, breaking down language barriers and fostering trust.

        “It provides frontline officers with instant access to pre-recorded phrases and 24/7 interpreters, ensuring those who need support feel heard, understood, protected, and respected.

        “This initiative is a great example of the NSW Government’s multi-agency approach to strengthening social cohesion in our diverse state.

        “The Language+ app is the result of a strong collaboration between NSW Police and Multicultural NSW to deliver better services for the people of NSW.”

        Multiculturalism Corporate Sponsor and South West Region Metropolitan Region Commander, Assistant Commissioner Brett McFadden said:
        “We hope this app will help build trust with communities by minimising misunderstanding and reducing stress and frustration during emergencies.

        “The app should help officers save valuable time when communicating with members of the community.

        “The phrases have also been specifically designed by certified interpreters for everyday interactions between police and people, whether they are victims or witnesses.”

        ANZAC Day 2025 Commemoration Services

        Sunday 13 April:

        • Dee Why RSL – 3pm Commemoration Service, Club Memorial Garden

        Forestville RSVL – 2.40pm March to RSL Club followed by service from 3 - 3.40pm

        Information: March steps off at 1440 on Sunday 13 April and heads South on Starkey Street to Violet Street then West on Violet Street and Bushland Ave to the RSL Club on Melwood Ave. The march will be led by the Manly Warringah Pipe Band and will include veterans, cadets, guides and scouts, the Davidson Bush Fire Brigade and NSW police escorts.

        Information: The Commemoration Service will be held in the carpark of the RSL Club on Sunday 13 April, following the march

        Narrabeen RSL Sub-Branch ANZAC Day 2025 Commemoration

        Time: 11.30am march from Narrabeen Surf Club to Narrabeen Cenotaph, followed by service.

        Date: Sunday April 20

        Wednesday 23 April

        RSL LifeCare ANZAC Village (The War Vets) – 9.30-10am village march and service

        Friday 25 April

        Forestville ANZAC Day 2025 Commemoration

        Dawn Service

        Address: 22 Melwood Avenue, Forestville NSW, Australia View on Google Maps

        Time: 5:30 am

        Date: Friday 25 April

        Information: The Dawn Service will be conducted around the Forestville RSL Club Cenotaph and will be followed by breakfast in the Club for all attendees who wish to participate.

        Collaroy RSL sub-Branch ANZAC Day 2025 Commemoration

        Address: Collaroy Beach, New South Wales, Australia View on Google Maps

        Time: 5:00 pm

        Date: Friday 25 April

        Information: Sunset Service on the Beach.

        RSL LifeCare ANZAC Village (The War Vets) Dawn Service

        Date: 6am Veterans Parade Cenotaph

        Pittwater RSL sub-Branch ANZAC Day 2025 Commemoration

        Date: Friday 25th April Anzac Day 2025 

        Address: 82 Mona Vale Rd, Mona Vale

        Please join us at the lower cenotaph at 5:20am for the Dawn Service in remembrance and gratitude to honour Anzac Day - Breakfast to follow at 6.30am . ALL WELCOME!

        Newport Anzac Day Dawn Service 2025

        Time: 5.30 am

        Address: Trafalgar Park Cenotaph, Gladstone Street, Newport

        This year we are delighted to welcome Brigadier Georgina Whelan to deliver the address at the Newport Anzac Day Dawn Service. 

        The community with gather once again under the trees (and the kookaburras) to remember those who have served our wonderful country.

        Church Point

        On Anzac Day, April 25th, there will be a commemoration service at Thomas Stephens Reserve in Church Point, starting at 10:45 am. All Welcome.

        Bilgola

        8.30am for an 8.45am start, Surf Life Saving (SLS) Anzac Day Memorial Service and March Past, outside Bilgola Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC), The Serpentine, Bilgola Beach. Bar open at 1.00pm, with Two-up in the BBQ area. Hosted by Bilgola SLSC.

        Avalon Beach RSL sub-Branch ANZAC Day 2025 Commemoration

        Avalon Beach RSL sub-Branch

        Address: Avalon Beach RSL Club 1 Bowling Green Lane AVALON BEACH NSW 2107

        Email: Avalon-BeachSB@rslnsw.org.au

        Phone: 02 9883 9815

        Dawn Service

        Address: Dunbar Park, Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon Beach NSW, Australia View on Google Maps

        Time: 5:30 am

        Date: Friday 25 April

        Service: 0550 am – Members Assemble 0540 am – Dawn Service Commences This service will be conducted by Commodore Richard Menhinick AM,CSC, RAN, the President of Avalon Beach RSL Sub Branch, assisted by Paul Sinclair, the President of Avalon Beach RSL Club Limited. After the ceremony is complete, please join us veterans in the RSL Club and enjoy an egg and bacon roll for a small donation.

        March

        Address: Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon Beach NSW, Australia View on Google Maps

        Time: 11:00 am

        Date: Friday 25 April

        Information: The march will gather at 1030 for an 1100 start out front of Avalon Public School on Old Barrenjoey Rd, it will then turn left onto Avalon Parade and right onto Bowling green Lane. From there those marching will turn into Dunbar Park and disperse into the arranged seating.

        Main Service Address: Dunbar Park, Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon Beach NSW, Australia View on Google Maps

        Time: 11:40 am

        Date: Friday 25 April

        Information: Once the March has concluded, our service will be conducted by Commodore Richard Menhinick AM, CSC, RAN, the President of Avalon Beach RSL Sub-Branch. He will be joined by LCDR Tamara Sloper-Harding, Vice-President of Avalon Beach RSL Sub-Branch and our Guest Speaker, Colonel Brad Robertson CSC, president of the veteran’s charity, Carry On. Once completed, please join our veterans in the RSL Club and enjoy refreshments, lunch and later on Two Up from 1.00pm to 7.00pm in the Surf Lounge on level 1 - if you wish and are 18 or older.

        Whale Beach

        ANZAC DAY dawn service will be held at Whale Beach at 6am in front of the Surf Club.  Conducted by Palm Beach RSL sub-Branch and Whale Beach SLSC.

        Palm Beach RSL sub-Branch ANZAC Day 2025 Commemoration

        1087 Barrenjoey Road, Palm Beach

        March

        Time: 10.45am March from Iluka road to Palm Beach RSL, followed by Service.

        Date: Friday 25 April

        Followed by Veterans Lunch in the club.

        Two-Up from 1pm in back paddock.

        Veteran wellbeing must remain national priority for long term: RSL NSW   

        The state’s largest ex-service organisation is seeking an assurance from all candidates in the lead up to the federal election that veteran health and wellbeing will remain a top national priority moving forward.   
          
        The Returned and Services League NSW (RSL NSW) is calling on all sides of politics to commit to implementing in full the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide’s recommendations, which seek to improve health and wellbeing outcomes for serving and ex-serving Australian Defence Force personnel, and their families.     
          
        The League also wants to see sustained investment in the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) to ensure it can appropriately service the Defence and veteran community; timely access to essential healthcare; greater access to fee-free advocates; and a ‘People First’ approach to Australia’s Defence capability with increased funding to respond to current and future challenges in an increasingly uncertain geopolitical environment.  
          
        RSL NSW President Mick Bainbridge said cross-party support is needed to drive the long-overdue cultural and systemic reform required to improve the lives and livelihoods of veterans, and their families.      
          
        “The men and women of our navy, army and air force, past and present, have made unique sacrifices in service of our nation and deserve to be looked after throughout their military and post-military life,” Mr Bainbridge said.   
          
        “The Royal Commission has already led to significant positive change, including a streamlining of veterans’ compensation and rehabilitation laws; the elimination of the backlog of unprocessed DVA claims; and progress towards standing up an independent oversight body to monitor reforms – but there is still a lot more work to be done and it’s imperative that all sides of politics work together to ensure the recommendations of this landmark inquiry are implemented in full.  
          
        “The health and wellbeing of veterans, and their families, must remain a keen focus for the next Government but ultimately, it’s up to every MP and senator to hold Government to account and ensure the issue of veteran suicide doesn’t drop off the radar. Too many lives have already been lost,” he said.  
          
        Mr Bainbridge said several key recommendations should be acted on immediately, including the establishment of a new agency within DVA dedicated to veteran wellbeing; an appropriately funded and resourced peak body for ex-service organisations; and ongoing funding for the network of Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs.  
          
        “These are just some of the key initiatives we believe will have the biggest impact in driving improved health and wellbeing outcomes for current and former servicemen and women – and we see day in and day out the positive impact our veterans’ and families’ hubs in Albury, the Hawkesbury, Hunter, Narrabeen, Nowra, the Riverina and the Tweed have through the delivery of much-needed grassroots services,” Mr Bainbridge said.   
          
        RSL Australia and RSL NSW have written to the nation’s political leaders, as well as candidates in key marginal seats across NSW to seek their support for five key election priorities:      
        1. Full implementation of the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide: RSL Australia urgently calls for cross-party, long-term commitment to fully implement all 122 recommendations of the Royal Commission.  
        2. Increased access to quality fee-free advocacy: RSL Australia asks the incoming Government to fully fund and empower the Institute of Veterans’ Advocates to establish a nationally coordinated, regulated, and accessible fee-free advocacy system available to all veterans, and their families.   
        3. Improved access to healthcare for veterans, and their families: RSL Australia urgently requests the incoming government review and uplift the outdated DVA fee schedule and streamline administrative processes to eliminate barriers to essential healthcare for veterans and their families.   
        4. Sustained investment in the Department of Veterans’ Affairs: RSL Australia urges the incoming government to commit to sustained, long-term funding for DVA, safeguarding the health and wellbeing of veterans and their families and preventing a recurrence of the claims backlog.   
        5. ‘People first’ approach to Australia’s Defence Capability: RSL Australia calls on the incoming Government to prioritise the health, wellbeing, and support of Defence personnel and increase investment to ensure a strong, capable, and resilient force that can meet both current and future security challenges.    
        RSL NSW is a member-based charity comprising some 30,000 members attached to more than 300 sub-Branches across New South Wales, providing support to veterans, and their families – and advocating for improved public policy outcomes.  
          
        See RSL Australia’s election asks document: https://www.rslaustralia.org/election-asks    
        ____________________________________________________________________________________________________

        2025 Election Questions for Candidates: Send yours in now + Key Dates Enrolment details 

        The 2025 federal election has been announced for Saturday 3 May 2025.

        The Pittwater Online News 2025 Election Profiles on Candidates will run as the Profile of the Week feature on Sunday April 27. 

        Residents can send in their questions for the Candidates from now until Sunday April 13.

        Please send these into the news service via email: pittwateronlinenews@live.com.au with header '2025 Election Q's'

        NB: 'Why should I vote for you?' is already on the list.

        Those who have nominated for the seat of Mackellar so far are:
        • Dr. Sophie Scamps, Independent and incumbent member
        • James Brown, Liberal Party
        • Jeffrey Quinn, Labor Party
        • Ethan Hrnjak, Australian Greens
        No others have advised they are standing for the seat as yet.

        On Friday March 28 Australian Electoral Commissioner Jeff Pope said the announcement serves as the starter’s gun for the AEC’s work to deliver Australia’s largest ever election.

        “There are more voters on the electoral roll than ever before, there’ll be more voting venues than ever - both within Australia and overseas, there’ll be greater accessibility options than we’ve ever had, and we again need around 100,000 staff to deliver it,” Mr Pope said.

        Key statistics:
        • 710,000 more people on the electoral roll (2022 federal election – end 2024)
        • 570 early voting centres
        • 7,000 polling places
        • 100+ overseas voting centres
        • 100,000 staff needed, 240,000 vests
        • 250,000 pencils, 250,000 lengths of string
        • 40,000 transport routes, 90,000 transport containers, 5,000 rolls of tamper proof tape
        • 80,000 ballot boxes, 1.4 millions security seals
        “We’re ready to go. You also need to be ready as well – check your enrolment now and please consider putting up your hand for paid election work. aec.gov.au allows you to do those things in just minutes.”

        Enrolment
        • Enrolment closes at 8pm local time on Monday 7 April 2025.
        • If you are an Australian citizen and over 18 years of age, it is compulsory by law to enrol and vote.
        • Enrolling or updating your details is easy via the AEC website and takes five minutes to complete.
        • Australia’s enrolment rate is the envy of most democratic nations with the last estimate at 97.8% completeness (end 2024).
        • The AEC expects to process hundreds of thousands of enrolment transactions in the next week.
        • The final enrolment number and rate for this federal election is highly likely to be a record high.
        Postal voting applications
        • Applications for postal votes are now open on the AEC’s website.
        • You are eligible to apply for a postal vote if you are unable to get to a polling place on polling day.
        • The AEC expects around 2.5 million Australians will apply for a postal vote.
        • Voters are encouraged to consider their eligibility and apply for a postal vote as early as possible.
        • Postal delivery timeframes may mean voters who wait until the final week of the election period to apply – especially voters in regional areas – may miss out.
        • While it is legal for political parties to mail postal vote application forms to voters, the AEC is continuing to urge voters to apply directly through the AEC.
        • The AEC cannot send your postal voting pack until the ballot papers have been printed. Printing will occur after the Declaration of Nominations at 12pm local time on Friday 11 April 2025. The Declaration of Nominations determines the order candidates will appear on the ballot paper.
        Election jobs available
        • The AEC needs around 100,000 temporary staff to run the election.
        • Workers are needed across the country but particularly in regional areas.
        • There are roles available for a single day (Election Day) or for several weeks before, on and after voting day.
        • It is paid employment, good for the CV and will ensure locals the opportunity to vote close to home.
        • Register interest online now.
        Voting Options
        • Australia’s access to voting options is significantly better than most democratic nations.
        • Australians can vote on election day, during the two weeks before election day, interstate, in-person overseas, overseas via international courier, via domestic post, through a mobile voting team at some hospitals and residential care facilities, via a remote area voter services team and via phone (for people who are blind or have low vision or in Antarctica).
        • Full details of voting options will be made available on the AEC website as they are confirmed.
        Australian Electoral Commissioner Jeff Pope said:
        “A federal election is Australia’s great festival of democracy, and no matter what your circumstances are the Australian Electoral Commission has voting options available.”

        “Today is an important reminder to all Australians who are eligible to vote to visit the AEC’s website, check your enrolment and make sure it is up to date.”

        “Australia’s electoral roll is already sitting at an incredible 97.8% of eligible voters enrolled, but we know the announcement of an election will be an incentive for new voters in particular to get enrolled.”

        “Enrolling takes less than five minutes and can be done online. For the first time at a federal election, you can now use your Medicare card to enrol – it’s never been easier.”

        Key Dates


        Graphic: AEC

        Autumn School Holidays - Easter Break

        Please note there will be no Issue on Sunday April 20 2025 - Easter Sunday - and no Issue Notice will be sent out.

        Week Two of the April 2025 Pittwater Online News Issues (April 7 to 21) will include Notices and Events from those dates.

        If you have a News Notice, Event or other listing you want in for that Week Two of April 2025 Issue, please have it in to the news service no later than Friday April 11 2025. 

        Although items can be added in, staff are looking forward to a break and time with youngsters and family, and usually follow an 'emails off/phones off' policy in order to get that family break.

        Please email us your Notices and Events posters ASAP at:

        Thank you very much.

        Whale Entanglement Rescue Training: Marine Rescue Broken Bay & Cottage Point

        Last week, our BB30 vessel and crew along with 2 members from Marine Rescue Cottage Point has the pleasure of supporting NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service in their annual Whale Disentanglement training day.  

        This critical activity is designed to practice their operational response to large whales entangled in rope, floats and fishing gear, whilst also focusing on safety of both the mammal and people involved in the rescue.  

        An enjoyable experience to be working together and sharing knowledge and skills. 

        Marine Rescue Broken Bay

        Photos: MRBB

        Beach Clean - North Narrabeen: Sunday April 6 at 4pm

        The Surfrider Foundation surfrider.org.au organise an Adopt-a-Beach campaign, to clean up Sydney’s beaches and get rid of some of the plastic pollution that we all hate to see. Last year, clearing up 3 of our beaches at 9 events, they retrieved 3775 items - totalling 104kg of debris including 4kg of microplastics.

        Clean up’s are held on the first Sunday of the month from 4-5pm on Sunday 6th of April with North Narrabeen's volunteers meeting at 4pom on the Grass Reserve next to North Narrabeen SLSC (cnr. Ocean Street & Malcolm Street) for an hours work on Sunday afternoon

        Last month we had another bunch of fantastic volunteers who did a great job cleaning up litter from around the club, the rockpool, the beach in front of the club, Birdwood Park (kiddy’s corner) and the entrance to the lake. We collected 13.2kg of rubbish, including a large number of glass and plastic bottles, cans, broken glass, cigarette butts, food wrappers, single use plastic, hairbands, bits of microplastic, etc.

        Buckets and gloves will be provided.

        More information can be seen here: www.surfrider.org.au/impact/adoptabeach

        North Narrabeen SLSC

        Flooding at Middle Creek Reserve /Boat Ramp  Cycle/Footpath

        Here are some pics I took this morning, Wednesday April 2 2025, on my way for a swim at the Sports Academy.  The lake level went right into the edge of the carpark, and covered all the footpaths.  Cyclists were pedalling through about 6 inches (15 cm) of water.

        The pics were mostly taken from the top of the boat ramp, which was the gap between the trees.

        I believe it was due to a high tide and a big storm swell the previous night.  A friend visited Turimetta Beach and said the previous high tide went to the base of the southern steps at the back of the beach. Incredible nature? 

        Photos and report by Joe Mills (of Turimetta Moods pictorials)

        Narrabeen Lagoon update: Council

        The Council stated on Wednesday April 2, 2025 ''The huge swells and high tides over the last few days have been pushing up water levels in the ocean. At times the ocean levels have been so high that water has been flowing back into the lagoon. 

        During these situations it makes it very difficult to open the entrance even during low tide. 

        Our crews have been continuing to monitor conditions, and have machinery on standby to move in as soon the ocean level drops.  

        We anticipate the swell conditions will ease tomorrow and we will endeavour to open the entrance on the falling tide.''

        ____________________________________________________

        Have your say on the NSW Freshwater Fish Stocking Plan

        April 2, 2025

        Recreational fishers are invited to have their say on what NSW waterways they would like their favourite freshwater fish species to be stocked into by the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).

        DPIRD Aquaculture Director Ian Lyall said there are numerous impoundments and reservoirs across NSW suitable for freshwater fish stocking, resulting in many excellent recreational fisheries being established.

        “DPIRD works with fishers and communities to release key sportfishing species such as Murray Cod, Australian Bass, Golden Perch and Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout into public impoundments each year during the stocking season,” Mr Lyall said.

        “DPIRD has developed a new plan for recreational stocking of reservoirs for the 2025-2026 season and would like feedback on what is proposed.

        “This is a great opportunity for recreational fishers to recommend where they would like fish stockings to take place over coming seasons.

        “They can also nominate new dams for stocking, which can be considered if there is practical public access and fishing is permitted.”

        Mr Lyall said all fish stockings in NSW are managed for sustainability via a Fisheries Management Strategy (FMS) and associated Environmental Impact Statement and all proposals will be reviewed to ensure that stocking is consistent with the FMS.

        “The 2023-24 stocking season saw more than 5.9 million fish released into NSW waters and this year is on track to be just as impressive, with more than 4.4 million fish already stocked across regional NSW so far”, Mr Lyall said.

        “Recreational fishing in NSW is a multi-billion-dollar industry and fish stockings plans an important role in building our inland recreational fisheries to provide exciting recreational fishing opportunities, contributing to regional economies and helping boost our fishing assets.

        “DPIRD have native fish hatcheries located throughout NSW that produce freshwater fish species for stocking, including Narrandera Fisheries Centre, Port Stephens Fisheries Institute, Grafton Aquaculture Centre, as well as Dutton and Gaden trout hatcheries.

        “These freshwater fish stockings are another great example of recreational fishing license fees at work.”

        Recreational fishers are encouraged to email their feedback on the draft plan to fish.stocking@dpird.nsw.gov.au by 30 April 2025.

        To view the NSW Freshwater Fish Stocking Plan and for more information visit https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/recreational/resources/stocking/enhanced-fish-production

        A map of fish stocking locations in NSW can be found on the DPIRD website - https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/recreational/resources/stocking

        Update on EPA debris balls investigation

        The NSW EPA’s expanded investigation into the source of debris balls that washed up on multiple NSW beaches between last October and January this year is progressing.

        A team of technical pollution experts and specialist investigators have been exploring multiple lines of enquiry.

        We are working towards reaching an important milestone in our investigation.

        Our priority since the initial debris balls washed up at Coogee Beach last year has been to provide the public with regular updates on our chemical analyses of the balls and progress of our investigation. We have released 8 public announcements covering testing results and precautionary advice for the public over the past 6 months.

        In addition to the clean-up advice provided to local councils and government agencies, we shared initial basic analysis on the Eastern Suburbs’ debris balls with the Government response team, led by NSW Maritime, which helped guide advice to the public to avoid attending impacted beaches or handling the debris.

        In November and December last year, we shared test results identifying that the debris contained fatty acids and petroleum hydrocarbons, as well as organic and inorganic materials. Our analyses showed traces of bacteria (a collective term including E.Coli and enterococci) commonly associated with wastewater, and that the origin was likely a source that releases mixed waste.

        Our advice remains the same: people should avoid touching them and should report them immediately to either their local council or the EPA’s Environment Line on 131 555.

        Classics, Hot Rod and Bikes Show 2025

        The Pittwater Motor Enthusiasts' Association and Northern Beaches Hot Rod Club are jointly staging the Northern Beaches Classics, Hot Rod and Bikes Show at Pittwater RSL on Sunday the 27th of April.

        We have a 150+ cars and motorcycles registered.

        This will raise greatly needed funds for our featured charities, namely Mens Shed Australia (Men's Health) -Pittwater Senior Toy Repair Group Northern Beaches and the local Ingleside Rural Fire Service-RFS. 

        Club volunteers will collect 'gold coin' entry donations from the public at two different entry gates.

        During the morning, Pittwater Pelicans Bowling Club will be running a sausage sizzle in the grounds surrounding the car show, available to purchase for $5.00. Several coffee vans will be also onsite during the morning.

        When: Sunday 27 April; 9:00 am - 1:00 pm AEST
        Where: Pittwater RSL, Mona Vale Road, Mona Vale
        Cost: gold coin entry.

        Vroom - VROOM!

        NSW Government extends mental health support for first responders 

        April 4, 2025
        The Minns Government has launched a new mental health and wellbeing strategy for first responders which now recognises forestry workers, national park employees, and road and transport workers who put their lives on the line keeping communities safe.

        This is in addition to emergency services personnel including Ambulance NSW, Fire and Rescue NSW, NSW Police, NSW State Emergency Service and the NSW Rural Fire Service.

        First responders in NSW play an essential service protecting citizens and responding to a range of emergencies, from car crashes to bushfires and floods. 

        The new strategy sets out fifteen priority actions that agencies are implementing to improve the mental health and wellbeing of these workers and help them to better manage the psychological challenges associated with their vital work.

        First responders will get the support they need regardless of the agency they belong. The strategy requires agencies to ensure mental health services are accessible, particularly for those in regional and remote areas, providing holistic and tailored support for first responders throughout their careers.

        This Strategy takes a proactive approach, setting a new high baseline for mental health and wellbeing support across first responder organisations and providing training for managers to better recognise and support workers.

        The Government stated it is taking immediate action to support employees at key NSW agencies including Forestry Corporation of NSW (FCNSW), National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), and Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW). 

        The government has introduced the following measures:
        • Psychological First Aid (PFA) Training: The agencies will be required to implement PFA training for all employees, including managers. This training aims to better support individuals impacted by emergencies, disasters, or traumatic events by connecting them to appropriate support services.
        • Referral to Clinical Care: Employees impacted by traumatic incidents will receive referrals to timely and appropriate clinical care, ensuring they have access to the necessary resources to address their mental health needs.
        • Peer-Support Services: The strategy includes the establishment of a peer-support service that is informed by evidence-based, trauma-informed training programs tailored to the specific needs of first responders. These services will incorporate the principles of PFA to provide ongoing support.
        The NSW Government stated it is committed to ensuring the wellbeing of first responders and recognises the unique challenges they face in their line of work.

        The government’s strategy is about driving long-term improvement in the sector to ensure these workers have the assistance they need to perform their critical roles effectively and sustainably.

        The First Responders Mental Health Strategy can be found on the NSW Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy for First Responders webpage.

        Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said:
        "We ask our first responders to run towards distressing scenes, so we need to support them with policies like this one.

        "This is about giving more first responders more support.

        "We are promoting mental wellbeing and preventing psychological injuries for these essential workers."

        Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis said:  
        “I welcome this strategy that ensures road workers, national park employees and forestry workers all have access to the same psychological support offered to other first responders.

        “Workplace mental ill health is estimated to cost Australian businesses up to $39 billion each year, due to lost participation and productivity. 

        “The NSW Government is committed to preventing psychological harm and promoting mental health as part of a mentally healthy workplace.”

        Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:
        “First responders are heroes in NSW communities, often putting themselves in harm’s way to protect others.

        “This strategy ensures the NSW Government is looking after the people who look after us, giving them the tools and support they need to stay mentally healthy.

        “By addressing the unique challenges our first responders face, we’re ensuring they have the mental health support they need to perform their roles safely and effectively.”

        Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said:
        “It’s incredibly important that our frontline workers are given appropriate training and support for their mental health and wellbeing. 

        “Unfortunately, some of these essential jobs can expose workers to highly stressful or traumatic events, and we want to protect people from experiencing psychological harm at work.

        “That’s why this initiative is firmly based in evidence-based and trauma-informed measures and will ensure people can lean on their peers and managers to prevent injury.”

        Minister for Roads and Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said:
        “Our first responder road and transport workers help ensure community members are kept safe each and every day.

        “It’s important we look after all workers who do so much to look after everyone on our road and transport networks. By developing the new mental health and wellbeing strategy, the government is ensuring worker safety is made an even higher priority.”

        AWU NSW Branch Secretary Tony Callinan said:
        “First responders provide an essential service to the community, protecting citizens and responding to a range of emergency situations. 

        “I support this strategy which will improve the mental health outcomes for all participants.”

        Black Dog Institute Executive Director & Chief Scientist Samuel Harvey said:
        “We welcome the release of this strategy and are pleased to see many of our recommendations reflected in its design and the priority actions— particularly the focus on tailored, evidence-based support, connecting first responders to clinical care and ensuring training for managers/ people leaders to support early interventions.

        “We know that first responders are at increased risk of mental health problems and over recent years, research has also begun to show the type of workplace supports and clinical programs that can help improve the mental health of this key group of workers and volunteers.

        “We look forward to the next stage of this work and assisting the Minns Government with implementing these actions to ensure first responders receive the highest standard of mental health support.”

        Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week

        Chuckles

        2yo French Bulldog

        Chuckles came from the pound in a bad way. He breathing is raspy and he sometimes regurgitated his food. With dogs he is a super friendly happy dog and is very easy to handle. He has a very affectionate nature. He is your typical Frenchie, full of antics and love.

        Our vets have said he is in urgent need of BOAS (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome) surgery to give him the best quality of life. Without this his life will be very short.

        With that in mind we have booked him in for this surgery on 17 April with our vet who has given us a discounted cost of $2,200. The recovery is about 3 weeks where he needs to be kept very quiet away from other dogs and excitement.

        Chuckles is looking for a committed Frenchie owner who upon adoption is happy to proceed and pay for the surgery at our vets and be able to give him the rehabilitation required post-surgery.

        Chuckles has a short coat and weighs 15.1kg. He suits apartment living and PT hours alone. He comes desexed , vaccinated, heartworm free and chipped. His adoption cost is $900. For further information call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email Monika@DoggieRescue.com. RON R251000024

        Carlos 

        7mths Domestic Medium Hair

        Belle came to us as a heavily pregnant stray cat. She gave birth to 7 beautiful kittens the boys being Jay, Ben, Carlos, Harry and girls are Dizzy, Uma and Evie. They are all sweet smoochy kittens. Carlos has a sweet easy-going nature and easy to handle. All our cats come desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV/FeLV tested if over 6 months old and microchipped. His adoption fee is $220. 



        For further details call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133  or email  Monika@DoggieRescue.com.  RON R251000024

        2025 Environmental Art & Design Prize judges announced - Entries open now

        Council has announced Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran (art) and Keinton Butler (design) as the judges for this year’s Environmental Art & Design Prize.

        Now in its fifth year, Environmental Art & Design Prize is open to artists and designers of all levels and diverse disciplines from across Australia. Submissions will be accepted to 19 May 2025.

        Mayor Sue Heins said the prize has developed into one of the leading competitions covering both art and design focusing on the environment.

        “Each year fascinating art works and designs are submitted for this environmentally thought-provoking prize.

        “The prize is an important platform for the natural environment to take centre stage, enabling artists and designers to share their work inspired by nature, climate change and sustainable living.

        “In past years we have seen impactful submissions from creatives including painters, ceramists and furniture designers. This year we would also love to see more contributions from architects, product, fashion and industrial designers.

        “We are looking forward to an amazing array of powerful artworks and designs for 2025,” Mayor Heins said.

        This year’s judges have vast experience in the art and design worlds. Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran is a contemporary artist with his work appearing in galleries across the globe. Keinton Butler is Senior Curator at Sydney’s Powerhouse Museum and the Creative Director of Sydney Design Week.

        There are four prizes on offer this year with prize money totalling $46000. 

        The visual arts and design winners will each receive $20,000. The people’s choice winners and the young artists/designers have a prize pool of $3,000 each.

        All finalists will be featured in an exhibition across the Council’s 3 galleries, Manly Art Gallery and Museum (MAG&M), Curl Curl Creative Space, and Mona Vale Creative Space Gallery from 1 August to 14 September 2025.

        Finalists will be announced on Friday 23 May and the winners will be announced on Friday1 August 2025.

        For more information, and to enter, visit Council's webpage at: https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/arts-and-culture/northern-beaches-environmental-art-and-design-prize   

        Honouring extraordinary efforts during major NSW floods

        March 28, 2025
        The NSW Government has today announced the establishment of the Premier’s Flood Emergency Citation to recognise the extraordinary response efforts during the major NSW flood events between 2021 and 2023.

        The citation will be awarded to organisations such as the members of the NSW State Emergency Service (SES), other emergency agencies, defence force personnel and other community-based organisations.

        It also includes individuals who were part of local ‘Tinny Army’ groups, who played a role in responding during flood emergencies across many parts of the state in an informal or spontaneous way.

        The citation honours those who were part of the operational response during those challenging times, including those who assisted with evacuations, or helped people or animals trapped by floodwater.

        This recognition is particularly significant given the unprecedented scale and duration of the operational response, with some regions experiencing over 100 consecutive days of emergency activities.

        The Premier’s Flood Emergency Citation will be administered by the NSW SES and includes the following specific events:
        • Southern and Western NSW floods: 9 November 2021 – 21 February 2022
        • Northern NSW and Hawkesbury Nepean Valley floods: 22 February 2022 – 8 April 2022
        • Greater Sydney and Hunter Valley floods: 27 June 2022 – 17 July 2022
        • Southern and Western NSW floods: 2 August 2022 – 8 March 2023
        Recipients of the citation will receive a letter and certificate co-signed by the NSW Premier, NSW Minister for Emergency Services and the NSW SES Commissioner, along with a citation pin.

        The NSW SES will contact eligible organisations directly to submit nominations on behalf of members.

        Informal or spontaneous volunteers, whose efforts were not as part of an eligible organisation, can self-nominate.

        This initiative follows the Bushfire Emergency Citation, ensuring that the unique and vital contributions of emergency responders and volunteers during emergencies are recognised.

        While the NSW Government remains focused on helping the communities recover and rebuild, the Premier’s Flood Emergency Citation underscores the Government’s commitment to also acknowledging the dedication and resilience of those who served the community in times of crisis.


        NSW Premier Chris Minns said:
        “Our emergency service personnel and volunteers showed immense courage and dedication during some of the most challenging conditions our state has ever faced.

        “The Premier’s Flood Emergency Citation is a testament to their tireless efforts and the critical role they played in keeping our communities safe.

        “This recognition is not just about honouring their hard work; it’s about ensuring they know that their contributions have made a real difference in the lives of so many people across NSW.”

        Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:
        “The response to these flood events was extraordinary and inspiring, with volunteers and emergency services personnel stepping up in the face of adversity to protect and assist their communities.

        “We know that many of those who served during these floods did so at great personal sacrifice, but they are motivated by a sense of service to others.

        “This citation is a symbol of our appreciation for their service and a reminder of the vital role they play in our society.”

        Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said:
        “I am pleased that Premier Chris Minns made the decision to formally honour our personnel and volunteers in uniform and our ‘Tinny Army’ who saved so many lives in the Northern Rivers three years ago.

        “I saw people in my community go above and beyond to get their neighbours to safety, and we saw ordinary people do the most extraordinary things to save lives in flood-affected communities right across the state.

        “I want to urge everyone who played their part in that community effort to self-nominate to make sure they receive their due recognition for the things they did in that difficult time. There is no cut-off date for this process.

        “I know I express the wishes of the entire community and say that we thank each and every one of our hero rescuers from the bottom of our hearts.”

        NSW SES Commissioner Michael Wassing AFSM said:

        “The major flooding events of 2022-2023 were felt right across NSW, with countless flood rescues and resupply missions in what was the longest flooding campaign in the state’s history.

        “Our volunteers and the community members who helped their neighbours alongside NSW SES members, who gave more than two million hours during these floods, deserve this recognition.”

        Renewing the water main in Old Barrenjoey Road

        Construction update – Friday 4 April 2025

        This week we carried out some potholing investigation work along Old Barrenjoey Road to confirm ground conditions and prepare for installing the new water main.
         
        Next week we will continue potholing along the alignment and begin geotechnical investigations near Woolworths to confirm conditions for the upcoming tunnelling in section 2. 
         
        Our work will involve: 
        • Night work with temporary lane and road closures, which will be done in sections, depending on where we’re working each night. This will include:  
          • making the north end Old Barrenjoey Road one-way southbound only – see map below. 
          • Access to driveways, the Woolworths carpark and parking spaces for local traffic will be maintained at all times. Our traffic controllers will be on site to assist and to help keep traffic flowing safely. 
          • temporary closure of Old Barrenjoey Road, between Avalon Parade and The Crescent – see map below. 
          • general traffic will be diverted via local streets 
          • access to driveways, businesses and parking spaces will be maintained for local traffic at all times. Our traffic controllers will be on site to assist and to help keep traffic flowing safely. 
        • vacuum trucks (also known as ‘sucker trucks’) will be used for potholing and a drill rig will be used for our geotechnical investigations. 

        As a reminder, our night work hours are 8 pm to 5 am, Monday nights to Friday mornings. We will not work on Friday, Saturday or Sunday nights.
         
        There will be some noise from our equipment and machinery as our work progresses along Old Barrenjoey Road. The level of noise you may experience will vary based on how far you live from our work area and what type of property you live in.
         
        We will make every effort minimise noise where possible. We will finish the noisiest work (including saw cutting or jackhammering) by midnight, avoid unnecessary loud noises where possible and turn off vehicles when not in use. 
         
        At the end of each shift, we will temporarily restore Old Barrenjoey Road to allow for continued use during the day. 
         
        We would like to sincerely thank you for your patience and understanding while we do this essential work.

        Contact us  
        For more information on our work along Old Barrenjoey Road, please visit our website.

        If you have any questions or concerns or would like to know more about this work – you can contact our community engagement team on 1800 943 119 or confluence@sydneywater.com.au. For other Sydney Water repairs or faults, please call 13 20 90 (24 hours). 

        Thank you again for your understanding during this essential work. 

        Sydney Water & Confluence Water project team 

        Nominate a Volunteer Today: 2025 Awards

        Nominations have now opened for the 2025 NSW Volunteer of the Year awards which recognise the outstanding efforts of the 4.3 million volunteers in NSW.

        Member for Manly, James Griffin said volunteering is incredibly valuable to local communities, with a range of community groups including sporting organisations relying on the hard work of volunteers. 

        “Volunteers contribute $178 billion to the NSW economy, and I know here locally, our community just wouldn’t work as it does, without the dedication of volunteers,” Mr Griffin said.

        “In many ways, volunteers are the backbone of our communities, and that is particularly true in the Manly electorate.

        “From our service clubs, emergency services, church groups, hospital auxiliaries and sporting clubs, there are those who work tirelessly to make our part of the world a better place to live.

        “There are countless projects and initiatives in our electorate that simply would never have happened without the work of volunteers, and I sincerely thank everyone who sacrifices their time for the betterment of our communities,” Mr Griffin said.

        “If you know someone who deserves to be recognised as part of the 2025 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, I encourage you to lodge your nomination promptly,” he said.

        The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards are an annual program aimed at recognising the incredible dedication, effort and community service of our state’s volunteers, volunteer leaders and volunteer teams.

        Nominations for the 2025 awards are now open and close on Friday 23rd of May 2025.

        To learn more about the awards, please visit The Centre for Volunteering website at The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards - The Centre for Volunteering.

        Consulting on payday super draft legislation

        The Australian Government will require super to be paid on payday to protect and grow the retirement incomes of millions of Australians.

        The Government is releasing draft legislation to implement this reform which will ensure workers earn more, keep more of what they earn, and retire with more as well.

        From 1 July 2026, employers will be required to pay their employees’ super at the same time as their salary and wages.

        This will tackle the scourge of unpaid super directly. While most employers do the right thing, the Australian Taxation Office estimates $5.2 billion worth of super went unpaid in 2021–22.

        Payday super will make it easier for employers to manage their payroll by paying super at the same time as salary and wages. The new law will also streamline the way super is paid by employers to make it easier to meet their obligations.

        The Superannuation Guarantee charge is being redesigned so that workers are fully compensated for any delay in receiving their super. Employers will also be prompted to rectify unpaid super quickly and face increasing penalties for longer, larger and repeated failures.

        This change will strengthen Australia’s superannuation system and help deliver a more dignified retirement to more Australian workers, in line with the objective of super.

        By switching to payday super, a 25‑year‑old median income earner currently receiving their super quarterly and wages fortnightly could be around $6,000 or 1.5 per cent better off at retirement.

        The Government invites submissions on the draft legislation with consultation closing on 11 April 2025.

        For more information on the public consultation process, visit the Treasury website. Submissions can be made to paydaysuper@treasury.gov.au 

        To read all associated documents please visit Payday super – exposure draft

        National worker registration scheme feedback

        The Australian Government is seeking views on the design of a national registration scheme to support personal care workers employed in aged care, including new training and mandatory minimum qualification requirements.

        The scheme will support the growth of a strengthened and skilled aged care workforce, where personal care workers are better valued for the important role they perform, and with greater professional development opportunities and improved conditions.
         
        It will also play an important role in ensuring aged care is a safe place with appropriate protections for older people.
         
        Older people, their friends and family, supporters, advocates, care and support providers and workers, and training organisations and providers are invited to have their say by completing a short survey or providing a written submission by email.
         
        To find out more, visit Have your say on the design of a national registration scheme for personal care workers in aged care - Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care - Citizen Space
         
        The consultation is open until 17 April 2025.

        Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 Recycling Batteries: at Mona Vale + Avalon Beach

        Over 18,600 tonnes of batteries are discarded to landfill in Australia each year, even though 95% of a battery can be recycled!

        That’s why we are rolling out battery recycling units across our stores! Our battery recycling units accept household, button cell, laptop, and power tool batteries as well as mobile phones! 

        How To Dispose Of Your Batteries Safely: 

        1. Collect Your Used Batteries: Gather all used batteries from your home. Our battery recycling units accept batteries from a wide range of products such as household, button cell, laptop, and power tool batteries.
        2. Tape Your Terminals: Tape the terminals of used batteries with clear sticky tape.
        3. Drop Them Off: Come and visit your nearest participating store to recycle your batteries for free (at Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 Mona Vale and Avalon Beach).
        4. Feel Good About Your Impact: By recycling your batteries, you're helping support a healthier planet by keeping hazardous material out of landfills and conserving resources.

        Environmental Benefits

        • Reduces hazardous waste in landfill
        • Conserves natural resources by promoting the use of recycled materials
        • Keep toxic materials out of waterways 

         

        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

        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 Residents Association

        Mona Vale Residents Association is a community group encouraging involvement on important matters within the Mona Vale area. Email: mvrasydney@gmail.com


        Report Hate Crimes

        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.  

        Speed humps on McCarrs Creek Rd: 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

        This 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. There is so much wildlife on the move in our area at present due to various pressures. 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

        Installation of fixed speed camera on Pacific Highway between Cowan and Brooklyn

        Motorists are advised of changed traffic conditions from Monday 7 April on the Pacific Highway between Cowan and Brooklyn.

        A fixed speed camera will be installed to monitor vehicle speed levels following requests from community members and Hornsby Shire Council to address speed-related incidents in the area.

        Work to install the camera will be over completed 16 night shifts between Monday 7 April 2025 and Wednesday 7 May 2025, between the hours of 8pm and 5am. Work will be paused over the Easter long weekend. 

        For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW App, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701.

        The work will take place at night to limit disruption for motorists and to ensure the safety of workers. Temporary lane closures and traffic control will apply during work hours.

        Motorists should observe temporary speed limits and follow directions from traffic controllers.

        The community will be notified prior to the camera becoming operational.

        Transport for NSW will also be installing 'No Stopping' signs along Pacific Highway between Muogamarra Field Studies Trail and Brooklyn Road, Cowan during standard work hours from Thursday 3 April to Thursday 17 April, weather permitting.

        Slow Down: Wildlife Crossing

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


         
        Photo: Phoebe the Swamp Wallaby by Jane Notice

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