Community News: August 2021

August 22 - 28, 2021: Issue 507

This Issue: full list in Contents page 

Front Page Issue 507 

The Rions Win triple j’s 2021 Unearthed High Comp.!!!

New Protections + Safety Rules To Carry NSW Through To Vaccination TargetsParents Strongly Encouraged To Keep Children Out Of Early Education and Care Services and At Home - Also: TGA Approves New COVID-19 Treatment For Use In Australia + Policing Strategies Disrupt Planned COVID-19 Protests

Mackellar MP Jason Falinski, Warringah MP Zali Stegall OAM, Wentworth MP David Sharma All Reiterate Their Opposition To PEP-11: New Bill To Be Introduced By Ms Steggall In October

Pictures Early Spring Bushflowers: Pittwater Is Blooming Beautiful photos by Selena Griffith

Aquatics  Manly's Seaweed Forests Festival Podcast Launch: Dive Deep Online 

Mackellar Voters Urged To Hold Morrison Government To Account On Climate By Independent Politicians and Climate Experts

Park Bench Philosopher Can Isometric Resistance Training Safely Reduce High Blood Pressure?

Food Australian Families Encouraged To Tuck Into A Healthy and Sustainable Challenge - A digital lunchbox launched this week by Australia's national science agency, CSIRO, aims to get people thinking about making both healthy and sustainable food choices and what they might be eating in the future.

DIY Ideas Early Spring Chores For Great A Summer Outdoors: Clean and Reseal Your Wooden Deck Area

Frenchs Forest Place Strategy Now On Public Exhibition For Feedback Until September 3rd 2021

Environment Time Of Ngoonungi, Powerful Owl Tree Hollow, Sick Turtles Coming Ashore, What's Happening To Our Frogs?: Attend Zoom Meeting To Find Out How You Can Help Out, Dead shrivelled frogs are unexpectedly turning up across eastern Australia; We need your help to find out why, We name the 26 Australian frogs at greatest risk of extinction by 2040 — and how to save them, It’s Magpie Swooping Season Once Again, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment August Newsletter, Forum & 2021 AGM, Local Environmental Plan And Development Control Plan: Feedback Closes September 4, Echidna Breeding Season, Reinstate The Marine Reserve From Rock Pool “Kiddies Corner” South Palm Beach: Petition, NSW Sustainability Awards Now Open For Entry, Green Light To More Batteries And Improved Internet Coverage, Empire Bay Marina Contamination Report Released, Better Futures Forum August 17th: NSW Environment Ministers' Address, Logging Near Towns Must Stop To Mitigate Extreme Bushfire, Australia Must Slash Climate Pollution This Decade, Andrew Forrest Backs Away From Kimberley Frack Plan, Damming New Undertaking Reveals Extent Of Maules Creek Mine Illegality, Looming Gas Supply Shortfall For East Coast Market, BHP’s offloading of oil and gas assets shows the global market has turned on fossil fuels, Some animals have excellent tricks to evade bushfire; But flames might be reaching more animals naïve to the dangers, Snorkellers discover rare giant 400-year-old coral – one of the oldest on the Great Barrier Reef, 1 in 2 primary-aged kids have strong connections to nature but this drops off in teenage years; Here’s how to reverse the trend, Meet the penis worm: these widespread yet understudied sea creatures deserve your love, Bushcare In Pittwater: when and where, Community Gardens, Groups, + Reserves 

Inbox News Sydney University 'Inroads' Program:  Anxiety And Alcohol Program Reaches Youth Via Social Media, Next Steps For Digital Agriculture In Australia, UQ Leads Climate Action As First Australian University To Provide Carbon Literacy Training, As the Taliban returns 20 years of progress for women looks set to disappear overnight, UNSW Partners With UK Government To Transform Ocean Accounting, Many More Meat-Free Mondays Needed To Sustain World Population Of 9 Billion, Pollinators: First Global Risk Index For Species Declines And Effects On Humanity, Histamine Could Be A Key Player In Depression, 'Missing Jigsaw Piece': Engineers Make Critical Advance In Quantum Computer Design

Residents of Pittwater are members of a maritime community or bushwalking fans that will take off for the less crowded waters and tracks of our western shores or the many vistas to be marvelled over after a good hike through Ku-run-gai Chase National Park. To so many it seems natural to seek places that remind us of what Pittwater was like over a century ago. 

With stay at home safety measures extended, this week a few historical photographic insights published in papers into one of the areas you can safely access for fresh air and leg stretching.

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: August 1st, 2021

Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

DV: Leave

Domestic Violence NSW
If you are experiencing domestic violence, current COVID-19 restrictions do not apply - you can leave your local area to get somewhere safe. Call the DV Line for help.

NB: Where to get help Fact Sheet is at base of this page. Simply click on PDF and 'save as' on your own device

People experiencing domestic violence can be assured police and frontline services are ready to support them and their families.

North Palm Beach SLSC New FB Page

North Palm Beach SLSC have launched their Facebook page this week where interested residents can keep up to date on all things NPBSLSC. 

Posted this week:
'We are so happy you’ve joined us and look forward to sharing our updates with you as we work to prevent drownings and educate the community from adults to children to be competent and safe in the beach/surf environment. 

Be sure to follow us on Instagram too and stay up to date with everything that’s happening in and out of the water - not only are we the real-life location of Home & Away’s Summer Bay, we are also home to the Kiosk that makes some of the best fish n chips on the Northern beaches. 

If you would like to get more involved, there’s something for everyone at our club, from becoming a  First Aider to training for your Bronze Medallion and so much more. Join the club and learn new skills, make new friends, stay fit and save lives.   

If you’d like to become a member click the link and find out more. 

We love our Clubhouse and it could be your clubhouse too. 

Imagine being able to sit on the balcony, Barrenjoey Headland to one side, overlooking our spectacular Palmy, the waves rolling in on a perfect Summer's day, surfers, kite surfers, families and friends swimming between the flags. Oh how wonderful it will be to get back there this Summer. Our home away from home !!!! 

Check out our new Facebook Page or click on the website link in our bio to register your interest in joining our club.

Illegal Fires At Allambie And Manly: Help Sought

The Northern Beaches Police Area Command is seeking help regarding two illegal fires lit in our bone dry reserves this week. Monday morning this week and reports started coming in of smoke rising from the bush at Allambie Heights.

Even in winter with temperatures still in the teens, Rural Fire Service crews needed several hours to douse the flames that burned through two hectares.

There was also a small fire at Manly Dam on Tuesday. Both fires were unauthorised and could easily have gotten out of control.

NBPAC is asking anyone with information about the origins of these fires to get in touch.
Call them on 9971 3399 and quote our reference: E84710116.

It's also not too early to remind people to ring Emergency Triple Zero (000) if you see smoke or flames in our bush.

With Spring just a week away and conditions getting warmer, controlling outbreaks like this is going to get harder.

Early warning is the key to controlling fires before they get out of hand.

Narrabeen Bridge Pedestrian And Cycle Works Update

Courtesy Cr. Vincent De Luca OAM: August 21, 2021
State Government Widening Works

A number of residents have contacted me asking for an update on the works to be undertaken on Narrabeen Bridge, which were subject to community consultation earlier.

I have been advised:
The Narrabeen Lagoon Pedestrian and Cycle Bridge is a project listed in the current capital works program. 

The scope of the project includes the construction of a new bridge over Narrabeen Lagoon on the western side of Pittwater Road. 

The bridge will link with the existing Narrabeen Lagoon Trail at its southern and northern approaches. 
The new bridge is a completely independent structure, offset from the existing road bridge by approximately 3m. This project is fully funded by a grant from Transport for NSW (TfNSW).

Council voted to accept the tender of SMC Marine Pty Ltd at the 23 February 2021 Council meeting.
Works are expected to commence on site in the coming months, once the bridge components have been fabricated off site. Completion of the new pedestrian and cycle bridge is expected in early 2022, weather permitting.

In relation to widening and a southbound dedicated busway, Wakehurst Parkway and Pittwater Road are State Roads under the control of TfNSW.

The widening of Pittwater Road to six lanes is a project that TfNSW have considered, produced concept plans for, but not yet committed to further developing or funding at this stage.


Update - New Warriewood Valley Community Centre

Courtesy Cr. Vincent De Luca OAM: August 18, 2021
The Development Application for the Warriewood Valley Community Centre was lodged in March 2021 and is currently under assessment. 

Whilst the Development Application has been under assessment detailed design for the new centre has progressed and is near complete. 

An Expression of Interest has also been sought from the market to build the new centre and suitable contractors have been shortlisted.

Once the Development Application has been approved an invitation to tender for the construction of the new Centre will be released to the shortlisted contractors. 

At this stage it is expected the invitation to tender will be released in late September 2021, subject to the receipt of Development Application approval.

It is anticipated that a tender recommendation will be brought to the February 2022 Council meeting. Subject to Council acceptance of a tender, construction would commence on site shortly after contract execution with the successful contractor.

The new centre is expected to take 15 - 18 months to build, weather permitting. Contractors will be required to submit a construction program with their tender submission, therefore the expected completion date will be confirmed as part of the tender report to Council.

A total of approximately $11.5m in funding has been allocated to date for the Warriewood Valley Community Centre.

Some photos of the Concepts from the Design competition.  Full community consultation was undertaken in September last year, courtesy Council.



Invitation To Join Worlds' Biggest Gig, Man; From Your Porch Next Saturday  

The hills are alive, with the sound of music....
Aaahhh la la lah
With songs they have sung for ten thousand years!

The bays ripple long, with a voice that is music
La, la la lah
With putt putting boats and sails that go flappity flaaaaap!

But seriously - details below; join in and let us know via FB or email in links.
Let's rock, croon and make swoon this joint!

Local Environmental Plan And Development Control Plan: Feedback Closes September 4 

Northern Beaches Council is required by the NSW Government to consolidate four planning control documents into one and has released a discussion paper.

Mayor Michael Regan said the preparation of a whole of Northern Beaches Local Environment Plan (LEP) and Development Control Plan (DCP) would be based largely on existing controls and was not seeking to increase heights in residential areas or increase densities in areas that have not already been identified.

“To be crystal clear, there are no plans for increasing densities beyond what has already been identified – our housing strategy made clear we only need to find an additional 275 dwellings,” Mayor Regan said.

“No one wants to see our area overdeveloped or the local character destroyed.

“Our aim is to ensure we maintain our great lifestyle, protect the local character and environment we so value, provide green space, infrastructure to support growth, and local employment for the future.”

One of the key topics explained in the recently released LEP/DCP Discussion Paper is how Council will implement their local housing strategy. A Council email forwarded this week by a resident subscriber to Council updates reads:

''While our housing targets are small, we still need to address housing affordability, provide a better mix of housing types and protect our local character and environment. The discussion paper outlines our proposed approach to planning controls, that will contribute to this, including:
  • permitting seniors housing, boarding houses and dual occupancies within 400m of (the) identified local centres of Avalon Beach, Newport, Warriewood, Belrose and Freshwater
  • prohibiting dual occupancies in the R2 Low Density Residential zone (currently permitted under Pittwater and Manly LEPs)
  • prohibiting attached, semi-detached and multi-dwelling housing in the R2 zone (currently permitted in the Manly LEP)
  • standardising the size and placement rules for granny flats
  • removing the floor space ratio controls for houses (currently required under the Manly LEP). 
To support local business and to provide an improved retail shopping experience and greater flexibility in the use of the space, Council’s Urban Design expert panel have suggested small height increases in business centres – no more than 1.5 metres. For example, the document proposes an 11-18-metre building height limit for the Frenchs Forest Business Park B7 zone.

To meet the demand for floor space in industrial zones the community is asked to comment on a an increase of building heights in industrial areas.

Among other things, the discussion paper also asks for community response to:
  • improved controls for development near waterways, foreshores, wetlands and riparian lands;
  • more water sensitive urban design and greater tree canopy;
  • performance standards for net-zero carbon emission buildings;
  • which water-related structures residents think are suitable adjoining waterways (NB: as well as noting that Action 1.8 of 'Towards 2040' proposes to expand the W2 zone to permit marina expansion)
  • provisions to restrict large scale retail in small retail centres.
The 190 page LEP and DCP is now available to read and provide feedback on. Feedback closes September 5th, 2021

What's Happening To Our Frogs?: Attend Zoom Meeting To Find Out How You Can Help Out

Something is killing our frogs. Here's a message from the Lead Scientist of FrogID,  Dr.Jodi Rowley:

It has been an incredibly tough few weeks as I have been collating hundreds of reports of dead and dying frogs from across Australia. I would like to send a huge thank you to everyone who has contacted FrogID to help us understand the extent of this mass frog mortality event.

While we suspect disease is responsible, I’m working with the Australian Registry of Wildlife Health, government biosecurity and environment agencies to understand the scale, cause and impact of this upsetting event.

To learn more and what you can do to help, I invite you to join myself and the Chief Scientist & Director of the Australian Museum Research Institute, Professor Kris Helgen, in our upcoming webinar:
Help save Australia's frogs
Date: Tuesday 24 August
Time: 3.00 pm AEST
Please register for the Zoom webinar through the link below. There will be an opportunity at the end of the webinar for you to ask me any questions about this current mortality event impacting our frogs.


Photo: Peron's tree frogs, also being impacted. AJG photo

Thank You For Your Service

Members from Warringah / Pittwater Headquarters Rural Fire Brigade have been busy providing COVID-safe food and essential supply drops to vulnerable members of the community on behalf of Resilience NSW and Foodbank Australia.

Thank you to our incredible members for continuing to rise up and assist where they can.
Warringah / Pittwater Headquarters Rural Fire Brigade photo


Increased Support For Learning From Home

August 19, 2021
New guided learning packs aim to help teachers and parents keep children engaged with their schoolwork.
Learning from home has become easier for parents and teachers of primary school students, with the introduction of guided learning packs in NSW public schools and additional training for teachers.

The guided learning packages are specifically designed for K–6 students and have been developed by a team of curriculum experts and designers to ensure they are easy to navigate for students, parents and carers.

Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell said the packs were helping teachers to keep their students engaged and connected.

“The packs are easy to use and cover all the essentials for teachers and students,” Ms Mitchell said.

“They include a full week of learning activities with stage-specific video content which includes teacher guidance, open-ended activities and wellbeing checks.

“All subjects within the K-6 curriculum are addressed on a weekly basis and each day begins with a student wellbeing activity, as well as a brain break during the day and additional activities for students who finish the work early.”

The packs are not mandatory but provide a great way for teachers to supplement what is already working for them.

Ms Mitchell said the department was also running new learning from home professional development courses designed using insights from last year and the current learning from home period.

“Teachers are committed to providing the best possible learning from home experience for their students, and thousands of teachers have engaged with the available professional development resources and webinars,” Ms Mitchell said.

“Teachers have told us that the support has been incredibly useful, helping to guide their students while learning from home and providing additional support for parents and carers navigating online systems.

“I know that learning from home can be challenging, and I’m incredibly proud of the work our principals, teachers, school staff and the department are doing to make this period as instructive, engaging, and supportive as possible.”

The Learning from Home Hub is also constantly being updated with great materials for students, teachers and parents with over 2 million visits last month.

Message From WRC President - Phillip Parsons

To all Warringah Rugby Club supporters
 
Firstly, thank you for your patience and support during this time.
 
This week, NSWRU confirmed the cancellation of all winter rugby competitions.

This announcement is in line with all winter sports and competitions affected including Sydney Junior Rugby Union, NSW Suburban Rugby Union, Sydney Rugby Union (including Charter Hall Shute Shield), Women’s Jack Scott Cup, Regular Schoolboy Competitions in Term 3 and the Illawarra Zone Junior and Senior competitions. 
 
There will be no Premierships or competition awards for 2021 Shute Shield.  
 
We feel for the participants and their families who have had two disrupted seasons.
 
Message from WRC President – Phillip Parsons
 
We would like to thank the players, coaches, managers and volunteers that make the game happen.
To our sponsors and partners, Friends Of Warringah and Northern Beaches Council for your continued support, and to our valued members and fans, we look forward to seeing you in 2022.

As in 2020, the continued support is absolutely critical for Warringah Rugby to ensure we are set up for a successful 2022 season.

Warringah Rugby Club cannot do anything about Covid, but can ensure that we remain in a strong position to guarantee our 2022 season is successful and again create those many memories that are so important to our community. 

We had such a great start to the 2021 season with strong performances on and off the field and this is reflected in the competition tables for each grade.

Off the field we celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the Battle of the Beaches, followed by a highly successful home derby.
 
We can't wait to see you back at Rat Park in 2022.

Take care of yourselves and each other and please reach out if the club can assist in any way.

Newport Rugby BBs 2021 Season Thank You + Message From President Jake Osbourne

Thank you so much to all the BBs that joined this year.
Your membership fee is a big part of the club’s finances, as well as your support on game day in cheering on the players.

And a big thank you to all the guys and girls working behind the Barbecue this year. Cheers from the BBs! You did a fantastic job in looking after us!
Sadly, guys there is not going to be a BBs and Sponsor’s day this year.

From the President
 
Hello BBs!

Unfortunately, but not surprisingly the season has been cancelled due to the COVID outbreak. Probably for the best! Speaking at the NSW Subbies Board Meeting, there was no clear way to continue without the risk of spreading the virus across Sydney and impacting our local community. We simply wouldn't put the northern beaches at risk to finish 2/3 games and nor would the other clubs in other LGAs. 

With 2021 now down as a DNF, I am reflecting on the season that "could have been" but certainly isn't without it's own success. 
  • After cleaning up Division 3 in 2020, I expected we would do OK in Division 2, but we weren't just holding our own. This year in some grades we threatened premierships and ran second on the club championships for the majority of the year, more than earning our spot back in the second division. 
  • We introduced everyone to THE BREAKETTES! That initial tunnel was one of the proudest moments I have had within our glorious club. Women's rugby in Subbies has had moments, but our community not only accepted the women's game, but embraced and supported the inaugural team as much as the men.
  • Community Spirit - Well isn't this just a reignited flame. There isn't a Saturday where we don't have new spectators come down to watch or a buzz around the village on the morning of a Breaker home fixture. It is this unified culture that will continue to grow our game and strengthen our club in times of uncertainty
  • Revenue is strong! We have turned our home games into something special, with bigger crowds and a great atmosphere. We are strong financially and the future of the club is bright. Our home games are the envy of Subbies rugby, with every single opposition President congratulating us on our Portress set up and "vibe".
  • WE GIVE MORE THAN WE ASK FOR! Last year it was Braidwood and this year the Fiji Fundraiser. Time and time again we ask our community to do more than just show up and drink beer. We have made a significant impact with $4k being sent to Fiji to buy basic food requirements for a village in need of assistance. Rugby is more than a game!
  • Our Unified Club is Coming Together! Whilst we are set to keep our entities separate, Newport Rugby as a whole continues to grow. BBs, Juniors, Seniors, Womens & Nasties, all working in harmony is the way to continue the growth of rugby in the northern part of the beaches. With the new building set to start construction soon, I am enthusiastic about our future! 
Unfortunately, we have a shift in leadership to set in this off season with the departure of club legends; Luke Duesbury (Club Captain & 3rd Grade Coach), Eddie Wayling (1st Grade Head Coach) and Jim Allen (Colts Coach). There will be time for me to thank these amazing men for their contribution to our community, but for all the BBs, we simply wouldn't be the rugby club we are without them. 

2022 is going to be a tough year for many clubs! Two half seasons will mean a drop in participation across the state, with a huge financial strain to come from lack of revenue (home games) and decreased in expected sponsorship contributions. Luckily, our club is looking somewhat steady. We will be fighting HARD on the field and we will ensure we can move forward off it. We will need the ever reliable support of our BBs next year and as always we will work to make you guys proud. 

Thank you for your 2021 support and years gone by. Without you, the club would look very different. 

We will update you on our "end of season" social, no idea when that might be at this stage. 

Enjoy the Beach! 

Jake Osborne
President of Newport Senior Rugby

Mona Vale Road East Upgrade: August Work Update - Design Modification

A recent traffic switch on Mona Vale Road diverting motorists to its northern lanes has allowed work to start on the southern lanes between Boundary and Daydream streets, Ponderosa Parade and Emma Street, and the Foley Street intersection.

We are making some changes to our design that will provide good outcomes for the local community. The changes include relocating the shared path for cyclists and pedestrians, and extending the heavy vehicle arrester bed further up the slope to slow heavy vehicles down. 

We expect the shared zone to be used by residents north of Mona Vale Road and west of Samuel St, and anyone wishing to access Lane Cove Road through the bush. Commuter cyclists and cycle groups are more likely to use the new 3m (approx.) wide shoulders to be constructed along Mona Vale Road between Manor Road and Daydream Street as observed along other sections of Mona Vale Road where wide shoulders have been provided. The realignment of the shared user path into the existing shared zone is to provide greater visibility for those who will use this route rather than be hidden between a noise wall and a fenced/vegetation border. 

These changes are outlined in the Addendum Review of Environmental Factors (REF) (PDF, 18.6Mb) review or download a copy at: mona-vale-road-addendum-ref-08-2021.pdf  - dated August 4, 2021

Display of the addendum review of environmental factors

This addendum REF is on display for 28 days. The documents are available as pdf files on the Transport for NSW website at: nswroads.work/mvreast

How can I make a submission?

To make a submission about this proposal, please send your written comments to:  monavaleroad@rms.nsw.gov.au

Submissions must be received by the closure of the display period. Submissions will be managed in accordance with the Transport for NSW Privacy Statement which can be found here: www.transport.nsw.gov.au/privacy-statement

Visit: roads-waterways.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/mona-vale-road/mvreast/index 

Garigal National Park: Notice Of 1080 Pest Management Of Foxes

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service will be conducting a baiting program using manufactured baits, fresh baits and Canid Pest Ejectors (CPEs) containing 1080 poison (sodium fluroacetate) for the control of foxes. The program is continuous and ongoing between Sunday 1 August 2021 and Monday 31 January 2022 in Garigal National Park.

Don’t touch baits or ejector devices. All baiting locations are identifiable by signs.

Domestic pets are not permitted in NSW national parks and reserves. Pets and working dogs may be affected (1080 is lethal to cats and dogs). Pets and working dogs must be restrained or muzzled in the vicinity and must not enter the baiting location. In the event of accidental poisoning seek immediate veterinary assistance.

Fox baiting in these reserves is aimed at reducing their impact on threatened species.

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the Forestville office 02 9451 3479 or Lane Cove office on 8448 0400.

Residents Concerned About Bilgola Bends Development Proposal 

Residents have written to PON this week expressing concern about a DA at 521 Barrenjoey Road, just south of the bends entrance. Objections to the scale and size of the compound, along with impacts on traffic, as well as a precedent it may set, are among their concerns. The application requires the removal of established trees on public land as well as and including the endangered Asterolasia elegans.

As the proposal would require significant excavations, stated to be undertaken over a 10 week period, the impact on traffic flow would also be affected during construction.

The Notification period for DA 2021/1164 runs 03/08/2021 to 31/08/2021



Image: 521 Barrenjoey road at present - Google maps image.

Palm Beach Café Extended Hours-Seating Proposal

Lodged this week with Council is a proposal to extend the trading hours until 8pm Sunday to Thursday and until 9.30pm on Fridays and Saturdays for this popular local café and modify the outside seating arrangements. 

Plans and Documents for the proposal at 1031 Barrenjoey Road Palm Beach to support the modifications are available on Council's website under  DA2021/1311 with the Notification period listed as 12/08/2021 to 26/08/2021 for feedback.


Free Community Pantry: Frenchs Forest Anglican Church

July 23, 2021
Today we set up a small Community Pantry with essentials, to help out during lockdown. Especially for the many of you who have had to go into 14 days isolation. 

We've got the basics: milk, bread, fruit, butter, soup, baked beans...etc.   And some toilet paper too. 

If you need something delivered, there are others from church willing to help.  Of course, if you know of neighbours in need, please let us know that so we can help there too.

Everything is undercover, milk and butter are in the fridge. You could even drive though if you wanted.  Just make sure you wait till the person in front of you is finished, so we keep safe by keeping our distance. 

Let's do our best to keep caring for one another and those around us at this time.

Blessings from the crew at Frenchs Forest Anglican

PH: 9975 5410

Pets Of The Week

Albert

AGE/SEX: 9 years / M
BREED: Sharpei X

Albert is a very friendly boy who is social with other dogs. He is super affectionate with people and loves attention. He is surprisingly active for his age. He loves walking and loves his dinner or chewing on a bone. He was very neglected and thin when he came from the pound. We have removed a few skin lumps. He has a short coat and weighed 17.5kg when he came in. He comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. His adoption cost is $400. 

Biscuit


Biscuit is a very nervous 3yo girl who likes to hide away from the world. She came from a hoarding environment and was possibly a street cat originally. She is happy to be stroked and touched but goes back to her little igloo bed. She needs an experienced cat owner who has patience and time let her gain confidence. She would do best in a quiet calm environment. She comes desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV/FeLV tested and microchipped. Her adoption fee is $220.

Please call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 if you are interested in meeting her or email  cats@doggierescue.com   - she is located at Ingleside.

Foster Carers Needed
Not everyone is in a position to adopt a dog, which is why DoggieRescue runs a foster program making it easy for caring dog lovers to make an immediate difference.

Meet our top ten doggies desperate for a foster home. These are most frequently doggies who have spent a long time in the shelter and are in urgent need of some quiet time in a loving home.

For further details or to meet all cats, rabbits and dogs at Doggie Rescue call 9486 3133 or email monika@DoggieRescue.com. Visit www.DoggieRescue.com to see all our dogs. www.facebook.com/doggierescue 
Rehoming Organisation No R251000024. 

Planning Proposal For Bowling Green Lane Avalon Beach

A Planning Proposal is an application to change legislation such as zoning or development controls that apply to land.

The first step in the process is a preliminary review and public notification in line with Council's Community Participation Plan.

Planning proposals must include an assessment of whether they give effect to the strategic direction set out in Towards 2040 - Local Strategic Planning Statement including all priorities and principles.

Planning proposals currently open include one for Bowling Green Lane in Avalon Beach - with feedback closing August 29 2021.

This is a Planning Proposal - rezone Green 3 of the Avalon Beach Bowling Club from R2 Low Density Residential to RE1 Public Recreation under the Pittwater Local Environmental Plan 2014.

Documents may be viewed and Feedback can be made at PEX2020/0002

Small Business Rebates For Hygiene Items

We hope the Northern Beaches community is staying safe and healthy during this time.

We understand that it has been a difficult time especially for our trade customers. However, there is some good news to share. Safe Work NSW is now providing safety rebates of up to $500 for eligible small businesses and sole traders for the purchases of hand sanitiser stations as it now a requirement for all construction sites to have an appropriate check-in facility and sanitiser station.

Before you apply for the rebate please ensure you complete the following: 
  1. check the terms and conditions to make sure you are eligible
  2. attend a free eligible event (online) advisory from a SafeWork NSW officer
  3. buy and install eligible safety items to address a safety problem in your workplace

To assist our customers with the new regulations we’re offering StandiTiser hand sanitiser stations for $169. These stands are easy to install, comply with the new rebate and are ideal for visitors and staff to check in and sanitise their hands. 



Watch this short video on how to claim the $500 small business rebate.

Virtual Zoo Lessons Available

The great people of Taronga Zoo are offering Virtual Zoo Lockdown Lessons streamed straight to your living room for FREE to help those teaching at home at present. Connect virtually with some of Taronga’s amazing animals with digital lessons led by a qualified member of our teaching staff that allows your students to be engaged by getting up close (digitally) to our fascinating animals via video link.

Virtual Zoo Lockdown Lessons will be running four times a week across Tuesdays and Fridays, with two virtual lessons per day.

In these engaging sessions, Taronga Educators will delve into a variety of animals, their habitats, needs, the challenges they face for survival and the amazing adaptations they possess.

These virtual sessions will be hosted via the Taronga Website, via Vimeo Livestream. No download is required, the livestream can be watched on a Taronga webpage link that you will be emailed after registering. Vimeo Livestream will allow multiple devices to be active at one time.

To register for these, please visit:

Help Shape The Future Of Animal Welfare Laws In NSW

Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall has released the NSW Animal Welfare Reform – Discussion Paper as the next step in the NSW Government’s commitment to modernise animal welfare legislation.

Mr Marshall said while the care of animals was a universal value, it was critical the state’s laws provide the right legal framework to protect all animals.

“I am calling on all members of the community to help shape the future of animal welfare in NSW,” Mr Marshall said.

“Expectations and animal welfare science have changed drastically in the 40 years since our existing laws were written. With the community’s help, three pieces of legislation will be replaced with one modern Act.

“The NSW Animal Welfare Reform – Discussion Paper outlines a series of proposals about the future of animal welfare legislation and it’s important all stakeholders, from farmers to mum and dad pet owners, have the opportunity to provide us their feedback.

“We now have Australia’s toughest set of animal cruelty penalties, but it is vital our legislation is in line with the best available science and community expectations.”

The feedback on the discussion paper will support legislation development to create an animal management framework that is easier to understand, closes loopholes and reflects new best-practice since the original legislation was developed 40 years ago.

This will be the second round of consultation on animal welfare reform and Mr Marshall said significant feedback had already been gathered.

“More than 1,100 stakeholders including key representative bodies and experts had their say in the first round of consultation and this has been used to develop a series of proposals outlined in the NSW Animal Welfare Reform – Discussion Paper,” Mr Marshall said.

Proposals in the Discussion Paper include:
  • Setting a minimum care requirement for those responsible for animals;
  • Clarifying what constitutes cruelty and who is responsible for the care of an animal;
  • Introducing a modern penalties framework with increased penalty amounts and new and enhanced offences; and
  • Providing updated powers and tools to protect animals.
If you would like to have your say, email your submission to animalwelfare.submissions@dpi.nsw.gov.au or visit the NSW Department of Primary Industries website.

Consultation is open until Friday, 3 September 2021.

Avalon Beach 100th Celebrations

Roger Treagus called an open meeting of interested community members on 10/6/21 hosted by Av Bowlo and assisted by Councillor McTaggart, to canvass ideas for the community to celebrate this event.

Some Ideas so far include asking the community to provide historical film/photos of living here to process into a movie for local screening, Tree Planting, Bands, Celebrating indigenous culture, A Guinness book event and more.
They will post updates to Avalon What’s On Facebook page.

Meanwhile Roger is keen to hear from anyone with film/pics to lend, celebration ideas or to volunteer help or resources.

A Facebook webpage has been set up to share information at www.facebook.com/Avalon-Beach-100

Contact:- Roger Treagus Convenor- Avalon Beach 100 Committee via email:-  rtreagus@optusnet.com.au

Sydney Wildlife Recycled Bottles For Wildlife 2021

Sydney Wildlife Rescue is registered for return and earn in NSW. This time it is accessed by an App called My Tomra  - which is the organisation that runs the recycling. 

Once you have downloaded the My Tomra App. Just search “Our Wildlife” you will see Sydney Wildlife Rescue listed. You can set that as the payout. 

So you just scan the bar code from the App  at the recycling machine and the 10c will be donated to Sydney Wildlife Rescue. The machines can be located anywhere in NSW.  

Please have a look it’s a good way to support us to care for wildlife and do your bit to keep Australia Beautiful.

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.

Domestic Violence Support 

NB: Where to get help Fact Sheet is below. Simply click on PDF and 'save as' on your own device

People experiencing domestic violence can be assured police and frontline services are ready to support them and their families.

Member for Manly James Griffin said the Northern Beaches community should not hesitate to seek help and support at this time. 

“If you are in danger or in an emergency call Triple Zero (000),” Mr Griffin said. “If you are in need of support services, such as housing or counselling, our hard working frontline staff are also available to help those suffering domestic violence.”  

“No person, whether they live on the Northern Beaches or anywhere in Australia, should in live in fear of violence and I urge people to seek the help they need when it is safe to do so.”

Mr Griffin added that perpetrators are on notice and that police have increased efforts to combat violence in the home including more proactive operations to enforce protection orders.  
“Police will continue to conduct Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) compliance checks to keep victims safe.”

NSW Police Force Domestic Violence Corporate Spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Mark Jones, said police are monitoring rates of domestic violence. 

“High-risk and repeat offenders are being targeted by specially trained police to ensure that all orders are strictly followed and complied with and offenders are arrested if violence is detected,” Assistant Commissioner Jones said.  “Police are also able to vary existing interim or final ADVOs if we know that violence is escalating, without needing to first go to court, so victims are immediately protected.
Where to get help - March 2020.pdfWhere to get help - March 2020.pdf
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Speed Humps On McCarrs Creek Rd: Please Share Wildlife Data 

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

It records the GPS position, date, sex, species. Photos can be added as they help in identification
The data is then forwarded to OEH and Transport NSW as it can help establish the best places to place  mitigation. Thanking you all in advance for your help with this.

We need your help. Thank you for reporting wildlife road fatalities. There is so much wildlife on the move in our area at present due to various pressures. Although we have had pictures sent to us, many of these have no date or location.

There is a database that volunteers maintain but this needs three pieces of information:
  1. The position via GPS or road and suburb
  2. The date
  3. The animal
The details can be entered into the database directly by you at:

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Stalls At Pittwater Place

Our Avalon Mothers’ Day stall was most successful raising $2,400 which we will spend on outdoor furniture for the new Palliative Care Centre.

“Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary members will be holding stalls at Pittwater Place, Mona Vale on the first Saturday of the month for the rest of the year, selling knitting, sewing, craft, jams and books, from 8am to 3pm.”

Free Mental Health Workshops For Parents And Carers

Parents, carers and community members supporting young people experiencing mental health challenges can register to attend a free mental health workshop hosted by headspace, thanks to a significant investment by the NSW Government in response to the ongoing COVID restrictions.

NSW Health Minister Mr. Hazzard said the workshops will help parents and carers better understand the unique challenges facing young people and how to access appropriate support.

“We want everyone in the community to have the opportunity to learn more about the experiences of young people so they can be supportive as well as becoming strong advocates for positive mental health through what is a difficult time for us all,” said Mr Hazzard.

“This is about improving mental health literacy for parents and carers so they can help them with their work or study and support them in areas such as learning shareable coping skills, accessing local support services and recognizing warning signs.”

Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor said the sessions will benefit the whole community.
“These sessions are for any parent or carer who is worried about their child and doesn’t know how to start a conversation about what’s going on in their lives,” said Mrs Taylor.

“We’re building a safer, stronger NSW, and these workshops will address local challenges, point the way to local support services and allow the community to ask questions about what they can do to help young people who are struggling.”

“We want parents and carers to be able to talk about mental wellbeing in a way that doesn’t inadvertently shame young people or encourage them to stay silent, but access the tools and supports that are available to them.”

Register for:

Pittwater NSW Parent and Carer mental health education session to be held on August 31 at:

MVR Upgrade Road Closure

Scheduled Roadwork; Road Upgrade and Lane Widening: Ingleside To Mona Vale - Mona Vale Road Between Manor Road and Ponderosa Parade/Samuel St: Monday 23 Aug 2021 to Friday 27 Aug 2021

Mona Vale Rd will be closed to all traffic except buses and heavy vehicles which will be allowed through under stop/slow traffic arrangements.
Mon (6:00am to 6:00pm); Road closed both directions
Tue (6:00am to 6:00pm); Road closed both directions
Wed (6:00am to 6:00pm); Road closed both directions
Thu (6:00am to 6:00pm); Road closed both directions
Fri (6:00am to 6:00pm); Road closed both directions

Diversions
Light vehicle detour via Powderworks Rd, Garden St and Pittwater Rd to return to Mona Vale Rd, or Chiltern Rd, Cicada Glen Rd and Cabbage Tree Rd to turn left into Mona Vale Rd.

VW Tradies Surfmasters To Return To Cronulla 

The 2021 Volkswagen Tradies Surfmasters will call Cronulla home on the 16th of October 2021 and is set to see some of the state's best and most senior surfers duke it out for a prestigious title.
 
The one-day event will see over 100 of NSW’s best shortboarders aged Over-28 competing on the southern Sydney beach.
 
The event will see five age divisions being contested with the Over-28 Men, Over-35 Men and Women, Over-45 Men and Women, Over-55 Men and Over-65 Men all competing.
 
Ryan Davies, Director of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Australia stated: “The Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles team and I are thrilled to be back on the beach at Cronulla for another year of Volkswagen Tradies Surfmasters, as part of our ongoing relationship with Surfing NSW.”
 
“Our connection to surfing goes right back to our original Kombi, and with a range of all-new camper vans now available in Australia, we can’t wait to check out the action and show surf fans why our vehicles are the perfect partner in the search for the endless summer.”
 
Several notable entrants will be surfing in the event with former Australian Title winners and contenders all fighting for a title.
 
Entries into the event will open at 5pm on Monday, 23rd August, 2021.  
 
The 2021 Volkswagen Tradies Surfmasters is proudly supported by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Australia, Tradies, Highland Property Group, Lean Performance, Sutherland Shire Council and Surfing NSW.


Teachers Coastal Education Week

by Surf Life Saving NSW 
Registrations are now open for the Teachers Coastal Education Week: 18-22 October 2021, proudly presented by Surf Life Saving NSW. 

We have designed a unique week of FREE, exciting and interactive coastal safety sessions aligned to core curriculum areas for Primary and Secondary school teachers in NSW. 

Learn from experts, expand your skills and have the opportunity to ask vital questions during a mix of online or on-beach sessions.

Visit our website to find out more about the sessions and to register your interest: https://bit.ly/2021TeachersCoastalEduWeek


Fee-Free TAFE NSW Courses Available

Member for Wakehurst, Brad Hazzard is encouraging locals to take advantage of new fee-free TAFE NSW courses to build their skills during the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Mental health, digital security, business administration and construction industry skill sets are just some of the 10 COVID rapid response courses on offer to people through the lockdown.

“Training will be delivered through either online, self-paced learning or teacher-led virtual classrooms, which means people can upskill from their own home, with the confidence they are completing high quality, accredited TAFE training,” Mr Hazzard said.

“This is a great opportunity for locals to pursue further training pathways to get a head-start towards a full qualification should they wish to continue studying down the track.”

Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education Geoff Lee said the fee-free training in employment growth areas was just one of the ways the NSW Government was supporting the community through the lockdown.

“Whether you are in lockdown in Greater Sydney, or in a regional community, I urge NSW residents to take advantage of the free training options available that will help build the skills needed to get a head start in a post-COVID economy,” Mr Lee said.

“TAFE NSW is committed to helping the people of NSW to grow their skills in a COVID-safe way.

The short courses are in addition to the hundreds of NSW Government fee-free training already available for those who meet eligibility criteria, such as Mature Aged Workers Scholarships, Women in Business, and the JobTrainer program.

If you are an Australian citizen, permanent resident, aged 15 years or older, no longer at school and living or working in NSW you may be eligible for the COVID rapid response courses.

The fee-free short courses include:
  • Reading plans for builders
  • Construction materials and work, health and safety
  • Digital security basics
  • Medical terminology
  • Business administration skills
  • Business skills for supervisors
  • Producing documents and spreadsheets
  • Food handling
  • Mental health
  • Alcohol and other drug work
For more information and to see if you are eligible, visit www.tafensw.edu.au/fee-free-short-courses or call 131 601.

NSW Government Extends Financial Support For Tenants And Landlords

August 16, 2021
The NSW Government has announced it will provide increased security for tenants and financial support for landlords by extending the Residential Tenancy Support package.

Minister for Better Regulation and Innovation Kevin Anderson said the Residential Tenancy Support package will now be paid for a second month and eligible landlords can now apply for up to $3,000 to cover the two months from 14 July 2021, assuming they have reduced rent for their tenant by at least that much.

“The NSW Government is ensuring both residential tenants and landlords have ongoing support by extending financial assistance for private landlords who pass on rent relief,” Mr Anderson said.

“Keeping people safe doesn’t just mean reducing the health threats of the virus. It is vital we help keep a roof over the heads of those who may be suffering financial hardship at this difficult time.”

Mr Anderson said landlords who have already applied can make an additional application and those who are yet to apply will be able to make one application for the total amount of rent waived, up to $1,500 a month.

“We have always encouraged landlords and tenants to work together to negotiate on rental agreements and the NSW Government has now made that conversation easier by supporting landlords so they can reduce rent for their tenants,” Mr Anderson said.

“It’s hard enough having to lockdown in your home while we stop the spread of the virus, but this NSW Government support means you can do that without fear of being evicted.”

Landlords will also have the option to apply for the COVID-19 land tax benefit instead of applying for the Residential Tenancy Support Payment, which is an offset of the land tax liability equal to the rent reduction granted.

Eligible COVID-19 impacted residential tenants who cannot meet their residential rent payments will be protected from eviction during the moratorium period commencing from 14 July and finishing at the end of 11 September 2021.

For more information on the package or to apply visit the NSW Fair Trading website

ADF Training In New South Wales From July To December 2021

NB: for those hearing aircraft/helicopters late a night and 2-3am- many thanks to Cr. De Luca for finding out what's going on

Australian Defence Force personnel will conduct maritime counter-terrorism training in Sydney Harbour and New South Wales coastal waters from the Central Coast to Jervis Bay from July to December 2021. 

The training will be conducted during the day and night. 

The public should not be alarmed if they see or hear military watercraft, vehicles, unmanned aerial surveillance systems and military personnel carrying weapons. 

Blank and paint ammunition will be used during some aspects of the training.

People who see the training should not be concerned that any of the locations are under any form of actual threat.

This essential training is vital to maintain Australia’s world-class military capability. It is not a part of the Australian Government’s COVID-19 response. The training is being conducted in a manner that accounts for COVID-19 restrictions and good health management processes.

Defence is unable to provide media access or further information, including specific timings, regarding this training in order to protect operational tactics, techniques and procedures.

New Policy To Drive Housing Choice And Supply

More diverse housing is on the way for NSW , with a new planning policy making it mandatory that boarding houses are affordable while introducing co-living as a new housing option.

The proposed Housing State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) will be the first principle-led, consolidated  Housing SEPP, and  is now  on exhibition for public comment.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the housing  options  offer new housing types and tenures to accommodate Sydney’s growing population.

“As our population grows and changes, so do our housing needs. Traditional housing arrangements are just not suitable for many, especially those on low incomes,” Mr Stokes said.

“The proposed SEPP has been developed following extensive consultation and we’re giving everyone a final chance to have their say to ensure we get it right.

“The changes streamline planning pathways in support of local strategic planning, so we get the right mix of housing types in the right locations.

“It is  part  of  our  wider  efforts  to  boost  housing  supply,  which  include progressing rezonings in key growth areas, particularly Greater Sydney, and establishing the Regional Housing Taskforce to identify roadblocks to housing supply  in regional NSW.”

The Housing SEPP also proposes that boarding houses would only be permitted  in  low density residential areas if councils allow it, while providing clarity around where seniors living is permitted.

The draft Housing SEPP contains new and updated provisions, including:
  • Boarding Houses – rooms will need to be rented at an affordable rate and managed by a registered community housing provider;
  • Co-living housing – housing designed for community living, with private spaces connected to community facilities, and includes student housing; and
  • Seniors Housing – setting out zones where seniors housing will be permissible to provide more certainty for councils and the community, and to encourage development in accessible locations.
For more information and to provide your feedback visit planning.nsw.gov.au/housing-sepp

Have your say
You can view the Housing SEPP consultation draft and supporting documents on the Planning Portal.
We encourage you to have your say and submit feedback on the Housing SEPP consultation draft via the NSW Planning Portal by 29 August 2021.

Calling All Artists!

We are inviting artists to submit artworks for our 2021 inaugural Rotary Art Exhibition and Auction to help raise funds for some very worthy charities, making a difference in our local and global community. 
For more information, please contact artshow@rotaryuppernorthernbeaches.org or Liz 0412 007 068 or Gill 0409 783 295.

This is a great example of how Rotary supports the community.  Even during lockdown, we continue to have productive meetings via zoom. We continue to make a difference and we enjoy each other’s company. We also have some great speakers lined up over the coming weeks. 

To find out more about Rotary and/or attend one of our meetings, please call Tony Butera on 0418 280 849.

Kimbriki: Essential Services Only

In line with current NSW Health Orders, and lockdown restrictions, Kimbriki is open for Essential Services ONLY.

The government advice is that residential customers wanting to drop household waste and recyclables to Kimbriki are NOT classified as “Essential” and we ask that any non-essential customers please delay visiting Kimbriki until the lockdown restrictions are lifted.

Please be aware that you risk incurring significant fines if your visit to Kimbriki is not essential in accordance with this list.

To view the current stay-at-home rules in place for greater Sydney please go to http://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/rules/greater-sydney

If you do need to make a trip to Kimbriki, and you meet one of the identified essential criteria, please be aware the following site changes and requirements in place:
  • Kimbriki is open seven days a week from 7am – 5pm for essential services only.
  • You MUST wear a mask at all times while onsite.
  • You MUST practice social distancing at all times.
  • You MUST not approach staff.
  • YOU MUST check in using the QR codes provided, or manual sign-in forms if you do not have a phone.
To view the full list of COVID related changes on-site at Kimbriki please go to www.kimbriki.com.

Please Dispose Of Single Use Masks At Home

On a short walk yesterday three masks were picked up of the ground within 10 metres. Same thing the day before. These probably dropped out of a pocket or something alike that after use  - but, these can impact on wildlife and cause death.

Let's look after our wildlife as well as each other during this latest challenge. 
Please be careful and ensure you take yours home so we don't see this:


Updated Noise Guide For Local Government Open For Comment

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has drafted an updated Noise Guide for Local Government for public consultation until 27 September 2021.

The Noise Guide for Local Government provides practical guidance to council officers on the day-to-day management of common neighbourhood noise problems and in the interpretation of existing policy and legislation.   

EPA Director Environmental Solutions Sonya Errington said the Guide assists councils to assess and apply the regulations to noise issues in the way that best suits their local government area.

“This new Guide gives clear advice on the regulatory and non-regulatory approaches to managing noise and community expectations,” Ms Errington said.

“The Guide assists council officers in managing neighbour-to-neighbour problems and those noise issues resulting from commercial or industrial premises.

“It also assists planners by including planning considerations that can prevent future noise problems, such as land-use planning to avoid or minimise noise from land-use conflict. Noise-generating activities and noise-sensitive areas should be separated where practicable. For example, situating commercial buildings, recreation space or similar between incompatible land uses provides a physical barrier and/or spatial separation,” Ms Errington added.

The key changes in the draft Noise Guide for Local Government include:
  • improved and easier to navigate three-part structure;
  • updated fact sheets for various common noise sources and summaries of which is the right regulatory authority;
  • up-to-date worked examples for common neighbourhood noise issues; and
  • consolidated and simplified technical and supporting information for council officers.
Once finalised, the Noise Guide for Local Government will replace the current Guide that was first published in 2013.

Have your say
Council staff and members of the community can:

Aspiring Writers Mentorship Program

Are you a budding writer?
Do you have a manuscript ready and would love to be published?
The Children's Book Council of Australia (CBCA) NSW Branch is pleased to announce that the Aspiring Writers Mentorship Program is being re-launched in 2021 with sponsorship by Cathie Tasker who will mentor the winner.  Fremantle Press will provide 2 runners-up with access to their online writing course plus the text How to be an author by Georgia Richter & Deborah Hunn.

The Aspiring Writers Mentorship Program aims to foster the talent of aspiring writers of children's literature across Australia and is open to all Australian citizens residing in Australia.

For the entry details and terms and conditions and to submit your entry by August 31, 2021 visit: https://www.cbcansw.org.au/aspiring-writers-mentorship-program

August 15 - 21, 2021: Issue 506

This Issue: full list in Contents page 

Front Page Issue 506 

Pittwater Councillors Fail To Respond To Demerger Poll Call

Increased Fines, Test and Isolate Payments + New Compliance Measures As NSW Battles Delta

Pictures The Fern Creek - Ingleside Escarpment To Warriewood Walk + Some History + The Local Government Act Sections and POM That  Protect This Place. Photos by Joe Mills and overview runs as this week's Pictorial - treat yourself to a stroll through this local treasure.

Park Bench Philosopher I’m A Luddite. You Should Be One Too

Aquatics  Drone Gives A New View On Coastal Stability - Turimetta: Narrabeen Lagoon entrance to Bungan Beach by Dr. Peter Mitchell and John Illingsworth

Science Week 2021: Take A Coastal Rock Platform Pool Tour To See What's In The Sea - For Youngsters

Science Week Runs August 14-22 2021 - A Cache Of Brilliant Online Events For All Ages + Downloadable Resource Books For Food: Different By Design Theme + Ideas To Do Locally!

Environment Kookaburra: Our Place, Resident Survey for Plateau Park: CABPRA, Big Shift Podcast Hits The Mark, Six Areas Begin Bush Fire Danger Period Early In NSW, It’s Magpie Swooping Season, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment August Newsletter, Forum & 2021 AGM, Discussion Paper To Encourage Views On Proposed Planning Controls, Echidna Breeding Season, Reinstate The Marine Reserve From Rock Pool “Kiddies Corner” South Palm Beach: Petition, NSW Sustainability Awards Now Open For Entry, Bandicoots Return To Sturt National Park After More Than A Century, Ground Breaking Recycling Projects To Roll Out Across NSW, Sustainability Of Energy Supply And Resources In NSW: Report, Whitehaven Fined “Chicken Scratch” For Environmental Vandalism At NW NSW Coal Mine, NSW EPA Reminds Residents To Be Safe Around Lead In Homes and Gardens, Newcastle Community Committee Meets To Consider Environment Issues, Man Charged Over Threats To Fisheries Officer, Reminder: New Yabby Net Rules Are Now In Place, Restrictions In Place To Protect Endangered Grey Nurse Sharks, EPA Fines Dangerous Goods Transporter For Signage Breach, This is the most sobering report card yet on climate change and Earth’s future; Here’s what you need to know, With the release of a terrifying IPCC report Australia must face its wilful political blindness on climate, Australia Must Stop More Climate Damage, IPCC Report: 2050 Is Too Late, Fossil fuel misinformation may sideline one of the most important climate change reports ever released, The Murrumbidgee River’s wet season height has dropped by 30% since the 1990s — and the outlook is bleak, Bushcare In Pittwater: when and where, Community Gardens, Groups, + Reserves 

Inbox News Yeah, nah: Aussie slang hasn’t carked it but we do want to know more about it, Physical Activity Protects Children From The Adverse Effects Of Digital Media On Their Weight Later In Adolescence, NSW DPIE Fast-Tracked Assessment Program: Audit Office Of NSW Report, New Report: COVID-19 Widens Australia's Stark Health Income Gap, Computational Evaluation Of Drug Delivery Reveals Room For Inhalers Improvement, New Mothers’ Sleep Loss Linked To Accelerated Aging, Problems In Thinking and Attention Linked To COVID-19 Infection, Growing Evidence Of Vitamin K Benefits For Heart Health, Starving Pneumonia-Causing Bacteria Of Its Favourite 'Food' Holds Promise For New Antibiotics

Profile of the Week Mark Ferguson OAM - for Vietnam Veterans Day 2021
This coming Wednesday, August 18th 2021, is Vietnam Veterans Day. Australia commemorates Vietnam Veterans' Day on the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan in 1966. We remember the sacrifices of those who died and say thank you to almost 60,000 Australians who served during the 10 years of our nation's involvement in the Vietnam War.

The Vietnam War was Australia's longest military engagement of the 20th Century. The arrival of the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam in South Vietnam during July and August 1962 marked the start of Australia’s involvement in the war.

By the time the war had come to an end, almost 60,000 Australians served during a decade of conflict between 1962 and 1972. Tragically, 521 of them died and 3000 were wounded.

On this day, Vietnam Veterans Day, we commemorate all the battles fought by Australians in Vietnam, from large-scale operations to platoon and section-level encounters. We remember the sailors of the Royal Australian Navy who supported land operations, and members of the Royal Australian Air Force who served in combat and transport roles.

For decades Mark Ferguson, President of Palm Beach RSL Sub-Branch, has worked for the betterment of his fellow veterans. His smile and friendly demeanour, his quick, alert and bright eyes take in all. 

For many years Mark was also President of the Manly Warringah Pittwater District Council of Sub-branches. He has spent many years in serving the RSL, as he states ‘it’s an excellent organisation for the Veterans to come and air their problems and get their pensions and welfare overseen. It’s there, available for all ex-service personnel…’

Mark's work in this regard has also extended to the community and providing education and materials for their use. The opening in 2017 of a Memorabilia and Military Heritage Library within Palm Beach RSL (Club Palm Beach) is just one of the works he is undertaken, supported by a great 'crew'. 

Along with other Vietnam Veterans Mark initiated and supported for years the Vietnam Veterans (Northern) Day, usually commemorated the Sunday prior to Vietnam Veterans Day annually and combining a march from Palm Beach ferry wharf to the Palm Beach RSL Cenotaph where a Commemorative Service was held at 11am.

Afterwards those attending, who came from near and far, would fill the hall in the RSL for a luncheon and a catch-up - a healing time for all and a chance to share a few laughs.

In 2020 Mark was recognised for his service to the community with an OAM being announced as part of the Australia day Honours. 

Although no Commemorative Service will be able to be held this year when Pittwater Online News spoke to Mark this week he stated the flag outside Palm Beach RSL and above the cenotaph will be at half-mast to recognise and honour all those who served in this conflict.

Mark served in Vietnam, joining the Army a few days after his 18th birthday. He trained at Wagga, then in Infantry Training at Holdsworthy for a further three months. He was in the 12th Platoon of the Delta Company of the 8th RAR (Royal Australian Regiment) which served at Malacca, Malaysia and then was sent to Vietnam, arriving November 17th, 1969.

This week a small insight into Mark's Service during this conflict.

John Goffage MBE (26 March 1909 – 27 May 1971), was known professionally as Chips Rafferty, and as an Australian actor was called "the living symbol of the typical Australian". His career ran from the late 1930s until his death in 1971, and during this time he performed regularly in major Australian feature films as well as appearing in British and American productions.

He also served in the Pacific theatre in WWII in New Guinea, lost a brother as a POW in the same conflict and supported a mate's family when he tragically lost his life at Church Point after the war.
Today is Victory in the Pacific Day, August 15, and commemorates Japan’s acceptance of the Allied demand for unconditional surrender [made on] 14 August 1945. For Australians, it meant that the Second World War was finally over.

The cost of the this conflict had been great, with 39,655 Australians having died as a result of wartime service. Additionally, 30,000 Australians had been taken prisoner, over 8,000 of whom died.

This year a VP Day Commemoration with some insights into a true Australian whose life was filled with service unto others.

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: August 1st, 2021

Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

DV: Leave

Domestic Violence NSW
If you are experiencing domestic violence, current COVID-19 restrictions do not apply - you can leave your local area to get somewhere safe. Call the DV Line for help.

NB: Where to get help Fact Sheet is at base of this page. Simply click on PDF and 'save as' on your own device

People experiencing domestic violence can be assured police and frontline services are ready to support them and their families.

Local Environmental Plan And Development Control Plan: Feedback Closes September 4 

Northern Beaches Council is required by the NSW Government to consolidate four planning control documents into one and has released a discussion paper.

Mayor Michael Regan said the preparation of a whole of Northern Beaches Local Environment Plan (LEP) and Development Control Plan (DCP) would be based largely on existing controls and was not seeking to increase heights in residential areas or increase densities in areas that have not already been identified.

“To be crystal clear, there are no plans for increasing densities beyond what has already been identified – our housing strategy made clear we only need to find an additional 275 dwellings,” Mayor Regan said.

“No one wants to see our area overdeveloped or the local character destroyed.

“Our aim is to ensure we maintain our great lifestyle, protect the local character and environment we so value, provide green space, infrastructure to support growth, and local employment for the future.”

One of the key topics explained in the recently released LEP/DCP Discussion Paper is how Council will implement their local housing strategy. A Council email forwarded this week by a resident subscriber to Council updates reads:

''While our housing targets are small, we still need to address housing affordability, provide a better mix of housing types and protect our local character and environment. The discussion paper outlines our proposed approach to planning controls, that will contribute to this, including:
  • permitting seniors housing, boarding houses and dual occupancies within 400m of (the) identified local centres of Avalon Beach, Newport, Warriewood, Belrose and Freshwater
  • prohibiting dual occupancies in the R2 Low Density Residential zone (currently permitted under Pittwater and Manly LEPs)
  • prohibiting attached, semi-detached and multi-dwelling housing in the R2 zone (currently permitted in the Manly LEP)
  • standardising the size and placement rules for granny flats
  • removing the floor space ratio controls for houses (currently required under the Manly LEP). 
To support local business and to provide an improved retail shopping experience and greater flexibility in the use of the space, Council’s Urban Design expert panel have suggested small height increases in business centres – no more than 1.5 metres. For example, the document proposes an 11-18-metre building height limit for the Frenchs Forest Business Park B7 zone.

To meet the demand for floor space in industrial zones the community is asked to comment on a an increase of building heights in industrial areas.

Among other things, the discussion paper also asks for community response to:
  • improved controls for development near waterways, foreshores, wetlands and riparian lands;
  • more water sensitive urban design and greater tree canopy;
  • performance standards for net-zero carbon emission buildings;
  • which water-related structures residents think are suitable adjoining waterways (NB: as well as noting that Action 1.8 of 'Towards 2040' proposes to expand the W2 zone to permit marina expansion)
  • provisions to restrict large scale retail in small retail centres.
The 190 page LEP and DCP is now available to read and provide feedback on. Feedback closes September 5th, 2021

Furore Over ‘Modern’ Swimming Trunks At Avalon Beach

Did you know that Avalon Beach was once the centre for a revolt over objections to those ‘new swimming trunks’? These were a form of the surf shorts that are so popular today.

With the development of new clothing materials, particularly latex and nylon, through the 1930s swimsuits gradually began hugging the body, with shoulder straps that could be lowered for tanning.
In the 1930’s men began going without shirts when swimming.  Bare-chested male swimwear became the norm by the end of the 1940s, including in competitive swimming events, in which men are not only bare-chested, but wear a swimming suit that is intended merely to meet public decency requirements. The norm of male bare-chestedness in swimwear extended to other competitive sports, such as professional boxing and professional wrestling.

From the newspapers of the past:

Warringah Ban Surf Trunks
WARRINGAH Shire Council decided last night to prohibit the wearing of trunks only in the surf on the beaches and reserves in the shire this season.
The matter came before the council in letters from several clubs, the honorary ranger of the shire (Mr. G. Dempster), Rev. Ebbs, of Manly, and Mr. E. L. Sanders, MLA. (Willoughby).
The surf clubs asked council to define its attitude on the new costumes. Mr. Sanders, M.L.A., drew attention to the "indecent costumes" worn by men at Avalon. The park ranger also referred to the new surf attire as "very indecent." Councillor Barber said that the question of the new costumes was very important. "It depends on the figure and the person wearing the costume," he said. ' "Men wore Vs. years ago." 
"Segregate Them" 
A voice: They did that here. 
Cr. Barber: If it was not bad in those days, why is it bad to-day? Let surfers dress as they like so far as they are decent. 
Cr. Hughes: If people wished to go into the water only in shorts they should be segregated. People bathing in public should wear a neck-to-knee costume. Warringah Bans Surf Trunks (1934, October 23). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1931 - 1954), p. 9. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article246677775 




SURF PATROL IN REVOLT
REFUSES TO POLICE SPOONER SHORTS BAN AND RESIGNS
OTHER CLUBS EXPECTED TO FOLLOW AVALON'S LEAD
MR. SPOONER'S determination to continue through the 1936 surf season the antique regulations forbidding trunks for men, is being met with revolt along the beaches. All the honorary beach inspectors of Avalon have resigned rather than participate in the enforcement of the distasteful provisions of Local Government Ordinance No. 52

The Avalon inspectors who have resigned are: G. Hanson, A. Rowe, and W. G. Simmonds (editor of "Surf in Australia"). They were followed by Mr. L. S. McDonald, honorary beach inspector of Freshwater. There are signs that others will refuse to play the part of unpaid censors of beach wear while the present regulations arc in force. The Newport Club last year refused to appoint beach inspectors, and will appoint none this year. Members of the Newport Life-Saving Club said last night that they refused to act as "amateur policemen." This fresh move against the Spooner compulsory chest-protector for male bathers serves further to expose the ridiculous legal anomalies created by Local Government Ordinance No. 52. 

"BEST COURSE" 
Lawyers have declared that shorts worn on the beach for sun-bathing are not Illegal under Mr. Spooner's regulations, yet trunks for swimming are still proscribed. "We are not in sympathy with the present costume regulations and don't feel disposed to enforce them," said Mr. Simmonds. "In these circumstances we thought our best course was to resign. "Last year, on the beach, quite a number of men rolled their costumes down to the waist, and we never had any complaints from the public. 

FILL IN FORMS
"We shall continue, of course, as members of the Avalon Surf Life-Saving Club."
Mr. Mr. R. G. Jamieson, Warringah Shire Clerk, said the council had written to all surf clubs in the shire, asking them to enforce the regulations, but Avalon was the only one that had replied so far. On Sunday week, Dee Why club-members will be asked to fill in the forms in which they undertake to enforce Local Government regulations on the beach. One of the officials of the club stated last night that it was most unlikely that any would accept the positions.

"REBEL" TALKS 
One of the rebel inspectors, Mr. L. S. McDonald (Freshwater) , last night said: — "If the clubs take this lying down they deserve what they get. They have the whole situation in their hands and can effectively show Mr. Spooner their feelings. "I would be one of the first to wear trunks in an organised protest." One of the best-known amateur surf-men in New South Wales. Mr. Rupert Michaelis, said he was glad to see that other club members were refusing to carry out duties that he had declined a couple of years ago. Mr. Michaelis was captain of Cronulla club for many years. He refused to act as an honorary beach inspector, as he did not feel disposed to order people to wear shorts over their costumes. SURF PATROL IN REVOLT (1936, November 26). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1931 - 1954), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article246977140 




Photos showing a mix of old and new styles in swimming trunks: 
1. Women in bathing suits on Collaroy Beach, 1908, photographed by Colin Caird,courtesy State Library of NSW, Image No.: a845001h - Models from left to right: M. Throwden, S. Norris, B. Emery, E. Williams, Ivy Throwden. 
2. Left to right. Miss Sue Russell, John (Jack) Ralston PBSLSC with Alrema Samuels on right circa 1934-36 with 9 foot surfboard. Image No.: hood_02985, courtesy State Library of NSW. 
3.  'The boat shot (our first) is from 1938 and although the nameplate reads ‘Avalon’ it was most probably the original “Akubra” which Wally Simmonds obtained from  his old club Queenscliff. The crew include Geoff Hanson (starboard side midships) brother Tom Hanson (sweep), Ted Sanders (Sanders Lane fame) on the port side in the hat and Peter Paterson (almost obscuring the sweep).' - Geoff Searl, February 2016

Congratulations Tom

While on Avalon Beach SLSC, members are stoked that Tom Waters, Director of Junior Activities (2018-2020) ABSLSC has been announced as the SLS Sydney Northern Beaches Volunteer of the Year and is now a Finalist for SLSNSW Volunteer of the Year.

Developing confidence in the water and having fun with your mates at the beach has underpinned an ’at home’ Nipper program led by Tom Waters over the past three seasons. Tom’s goal was to attract, retain and develop the skills of our youngest members (and their parents) and “build water warriors of the future”. 

To re-engage our Nippers and build their confidence in the often tricky conditions at Avalon Beach, Tom introduced the Palm Beach water development sessions, where age groups, on rotation, could build their board skills and confidence in calmer waters at Kiddies corner and also maximise their time in the water. To encourage those still not confident with waves, Tom introduced a snorkelling program to entice kids into the water, as well as supervised leaps from Jump Rock (how to get there safely and get out safely) and swims to shore at Palmy. 

Sustainability became a priority for Nippers and together with his team, Tom has driven or supported several initiatives to minimise the impact of hundreds of Nipper families on the beach each Sunday including:
  • partnering with Clean Oceans to setup a refillable water station enabling single use plastic water bottles to be banished from the canteen
  • byo cup for hot chocolate or milkshakes and online preordering of food for Nipper events to minimise wastage 
  • exchanging end of year disposable trophies and medals for all age groups for a weekly Bravery Award sponsored by local businesses in the form of a useable gift voucher.


He smashed his goal out of the park with an increase of 191 new members in the Junior Club and a whopping 70 Age Managers to support the program. 

Nipper parents also formed one of the largest squad of volunteers at the 2019 Carols at the Beach event and an increasing number of Nipper parents have undertaken their Bronze Medallion to provide Water Safety at Nippers or join a beach patrol. 

Our life saving future depends on the connection that our youngest members make with their beach and surf life saving community. A fun, diverse and educational Nipper program is key to fostering that lifelong enjoyment. 

Congratulations Tom on this outstanding achievement which has been deservedly recognised by the Surf Life Saving movement.

If you'd like to have a role in preventing drownings at Avalon Beach, the club is currently inviting the community to join them this summer. 

Learn some new skills, make some new friends, join the Club and join the lifestyle. Bronze Medallion course starts Sunday 17 October. Register your interest here.

Mona Vale Road East Upgrade: August Work Update - Design Modification

A recent traffic switch on Mona Vale Road diverting motorists to its northern lanes has allowed work to start on the southern lanes between Boundary and Daydream streets, Ponderosa Parade and Emma Street, and the Foley Street intersection.

We are making some changes to our design that will provide good outcomes for the local community. The changes include relocating the shared path for cyclists and pedestrians, and extending the heavy vehicle arrester bed further up the slope to slow heavy vehicles down. 

We expect the shared zone to be used by residents north of Mona Vale Road and west of Samuel St, and anyone wishing to access Lane Cove Road through the bush. Commuter cyclists and cycle groups are more likely to use the new 3m (approx.) wide shoulders to be constructed along Mona Vale Road between Manor Road and Daydream Street as observed along other sections of Mona Vale Road where wide shoulders have been provided. The realignment of the shared user path into the existing shared zone is to provide greater visibility for those who will use this route rather than be hidden between a noise wall and a fenced/vegetation border. 

These changes are outlined in the Addendum Review of Environmental Factors (REF) (PDF, 18.6Mb) review or download a copy at: mona-vale-road-addendum-ref-08-2021.pdf  - dated August 4, 2021

Display of the addendum review of environmental factors

This addendum REF is on display for 28 days. The documents are available as pdf files on the Transport for NSW website at: nswroads.work/mvreast

How can I make a submission?

To make a submission about this proposal, please send your written comments to:  monavaleroad@rms.nsw.gov.au

Submissions must be received by the closure of the display period. Submissions will be managed in accordance with the Transport for NSW Privacy Statement which can be found here: www.transport.nsw.gov.au/privacy-statement

Visit: roads-waterways.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/mona-vale-road/mvreast/index 

Garigal National Park: Notice Of 1080 Pest Management Of Foxes

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service will be conducting a baiting program using manufactured baits, fresh baits and Canid Pest Ejectors (CPEs) containing 1080 poison (sodium fluroacetate) for the control of foxes. The program is continuous and ongoing between Sunday 1 August 2021 and Monday 31 January 2022 in Garigal National Park.

Don’t touch baits or ejector devices. All baiting locations are identifiable by signs.

Domestic pets are not permitted in NSW national parks and reserves. Pets and working dogs may be affected (1080 is lethal to cats and dogs). Pets and working dogs must be restrained or muzzled in the vicinity and must not enter the baiting location. In the event of accidental poisoning seek immediate veterinary assistance.

Fox baiting in these reserves is aimed at reducing their impact on threatened species.

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the Forestville office 02 9451 3479 or Lane Cove office on 8448 0400.

Residents Concerned About Bilgola Bends Development Proposal 

Residents have written to PON this week expressing concern about a DA at 521 Barrenjoey Road, just south of the bends entrance. Objections to the scale and size of the compound, along with impacts on traffic, as well as a precedent it may set, are among their concerns. The application requires the removal of established trees on public land as well as and including the endangered Asterolasia elegans.

As the proposal would require significant excavations, stated to be undertaken over a 10 week period, the impact on traffic flow would also be affected during construction.

The Notification period for DA 2021/1164 runs 03/08/2021 to 31/08/2021



Image: 521 Barrenjoey road at present - Google maps image.

Palm Beach Café Extended Hours-Seating Proposal

Lodged this week with Council is a proposal to extend the trading hours until 8pm Sunday to Thursday and until 9.30pm on Fridays and Saturdays for this popular local café and modify the outside seating arrangements. 

Plans and Documents for the proposal at 1031 Barrenjoey Road Palm Beach to support the modifications are available on Council's website under  DA2021/1311 with the Notification period listed as 12/08/2021 to 26/08/2021 for feedback.


Free Community Pantry: Frenchs Forest Anglican Church

July 23, 2021
Today we set up a small Community Pantry with essentials, to help out during lockdown. Especially for the many of you who have had to go into 14 days isolation. 

We've got the basics: milk, bread, fruit, butter, soup, baked beans...etc.   And some toilet paper too. 

If you need something delivered, there are others from church willing to help.  Of course, if you know of neighbours in need, please let us know that so we can help there too.

Everything is undercover, milk and butter are in the fridge. You could even drive though if you wanted.  Just make sure you wait till the person in front of you is finished, so we keep safe by keeping our distance. 

Let's do our best to keep caring for one another and those around us at this time.

Blessings from the crew at Frenchs Forest Anglican

PH: 9975 5410

Pets Of The Week

Zali


AGE/SEX: 3 years / F
BREED: Staffy X Cattle

Zali is a very sweet affectionate girl who loves cuddles. Zali is DEAF. She is keen to walk and lunges playfully at other dogs and likes to jog. Walkers say: "such a sweet excited girl. Keen to play and interact with other dogs. Likes pats and cuddles." She has a short coat and weighs 20.3kg. She comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. Her adoption cost is $450.

Dennis & Rita


Rita 8yo and Dennis 7yo are a very sweet bonded short haired pair. They are both gentle cats. Dennis is a touch timid. They are looking for a quiet home together. Rita is 3.6kgand Dennis 4.6kg. They are desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV tested and microchipped. Their adoption fee together is $440.

Please call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 if you are interested in meeting them or email  cats@doggierescue.com

Foster Carers Needed
Not everyone is in a position to adopt a dog, which is why DoggieRescue runs a foster program making it easy for caring dog lovers to make an immediate difference.

Meet our top ten doggies desperate for a foster home. These are most frequently doggies who have spent a long time in the shelter and are in urgent need of some quiet time in a loving home.

For further details or to meet all cats, rabbits and dogs at Doggie Rescue call 9486 3133 or email monika@DoggieRescue.com. Visit www.DoggieRescue.com to see all our dogs. www.facebook.com/doggierescue 
Rehoming Organisation No R251000024. 

Planning Proposal For Bowling Green Lane Avalon Beach

A Planning Proposal is an application to change legislation such as zoning or development controls that apply to land.

The first step in the process is a preliminary review and public notification in line with Council's Community Participation Plan.

Planning proposals must include an assessment of whether they give effect to the strategic direction set out in Towards 2040 - Local Strategic Planning Statement including all priorities and principles.

Planning proposals currently open include one for Bowling Green Lane in Avalon Beach - with feedback closing August 29 2021.

This is a Planning Proposal - rezone Green 3 of the Avalon Beach Bowling Club from R2 Low Density Residential to RE1 Public Recreation under the Pittwater Local Environmental Plan 2014.

Documents may be viewed and Feedback can be made at PEX2020/0002

Virtual Zoo Lessons Available

The great people of Taronga Zoo are offering Virtual Zoo Lockdown Lessons streamed straight to your living room for FREE to help those teaching at home at present. Connect virtually with some of Taronga’s amazing animals with digital lessons led by a qualified member of our teaching staff that allows your students to be engaged by getting up close (digitally) to our fascinating animals via video link.

Virtual Zoo Lockdown Lessons will be running four times a week across Tuesdays and Fridays, with two virtual lessons per day.

In these engaging sessions, Taronga Educators will delve into a variety of animals, their habitats, needs, the challenges they face for survival and the amazing adaptations they possess.

These virtual sessions will be hosted via the Taronga Website, via Vimeo Livestream. No download is required, the livestream can be watched on a Taronga webpage link that you will be emailed after registering. Vimeo Livestream will allow multiple devices to be active at one time.

To register for these, please visit:

Updated Noise Guide For Local Government Open For Comment

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has drafted an updated Noise Guide for Local Government for public consultation until 27 September 2021.

The Noise Guide for Local Government provides practical guidance to council officers on the day-to-day management of common neighbourhood noise problems and in the interpretation of existing policy and legislation.   

EPA Director Environmental Solutions Sonya Errington said the Guide assists councils to assess and apply the regulations to noise issues in the way that best suits their local government area.

“This new Guide gives clear advice on the regulatory and non-regulatory approaches to managing noise and community expectations,” Ms Errington said.

“The Guide assists council officers in managing neighbour-to-neighbour problems and those noise issues resulting from commercial or industrial premises.

“It also assists planners by including planning considerations that can prevent future noise problems, such as land-use planning to avoid or minimise noise from land-use conflict. Noise-generating activities and noise-sensitive areas should be separated where practicable. For example, situating commercial buildings, recreation space or similar between incompatible land uses provides a physical barrier and/or spatial separation,” Ms Errington added.

The key changes in the draft Noise Guide for Local Government include:
  • improved and easier to navigate three-part structure;
  • updated fact sheets for various common noise sources and summaries of which is the right regulatory authority;
  • up-to-date worked examples for common neighbourhood noise issues; and
  • consolidated and simplified technical and supporting information for council officers.
Once finalised, the Noise Guide for Local Government will replace the current Guide that was first published in 2013.

Have your say
Council staff and members of the community can:

Leading Sydney Silk To Be Next NSW DPP

August 12, 2021
Leading Sydney criminal law silk Sally Dowling SC is to become the state’s next Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

Attorney General Mark Speakman congratulated Ms Dowling, who brings more than 25 years of legal experience and will be the first female to hold the role.

“Ms Dowling has a distinguished background in criminal law and has shown outstanding leadership and legal skills while arguing cases both as a prosecutor and as defence counsel,” Mr Speakman said.

“She is very well positioned to continue the dedicated work of Lloyd Babb SC, who finished his 10-year term on 17 July 2021. NSW has been fortunate indeed to have benefited from the expertise, professionalism and integrity Mr Babb brought to the position over the past decade.”

Ms Dowling was admitted as a legal practitioner in 1995 and appointed Senior Counsel in 2013. She served as a Crown Prosecutor for 16 years and has appeared as lead counsel in the High Court of Australia, the Federal Court of Australia and all jurisdictions in NSW.

In 2016 Ms Dowling SC was appointed Deputy Senior Crown Prosecutor and Head of the Appeals unit within the Office of the DPP. During her career she has appeared as lead counsel in more than 300 appeals in the High Court of Australia and the NSW Court of Criminal Appeal and in more than 65 jury trials in the NSW Supreme and District Courts.

In 2019 Ms Dowling was Senior Counsel assisting the Special Commission of Inquiry into the Drug 'Ice'. Since 2020 she has been a barrister in private practice at Wardell Chambers.

Ms Dowling said she was honoured to lead the independent agency, which employs more than 800 staff and prosecutes around 18,000 criminal matters a year.

“I look forward to representing our community and providing the public with a prosecution service that is strong, fair and fearless,” Ms Dowling said.

Ms Dowling will begin her 10-year term as the fourth NSW Director of Public Prosecutions on Monday, 16 August.

New Common Law Chief Appointed To Supreme Court

August 11, 2021
The Honourable Justice Robert Beech-Jones has been appointed as Chief Judge of the Common Law Division of the Supreme Court of New South Wales and a Judge of Appeal.

Attorney General Mark Speakman said Justice Beech-Jones’ long and exceptional legal career equips his Honour well for his new role.

“During Justice Beech-Jones’ 20 years at the Bar, he had carriage of a wide range of matters, in particular in the criminal law, immigration law, social security and administrative law and commercial law.

He is a man of great intellectual ability and integrity,” Mr Speakman said. Justice Beech-Jones gained his law degree with Honours from the Australian National University, also graduating with a Bachelor of Science. He was admitted as a solicitor in 1988 and was called to the Bar in 1992.

He was appointed a Judge of the Supreme Court of NSW in 2012.

Mr Speakman paid tribute to the retiring Chief Judge at Common Law, the Honourable Justice Clifton Hoeben AM RFD.

“Justice Hoeben was elevated to the Supreme Court bench in 2004 after a stellar career at the Bar. He is a man who has a formidable legal mind as well as deep insight and the highest of courtesy, and who will leave a long legacy in the legal sphere,” Mr Speakman said.

Justice Hoeben will retire from the Supreme Court bench on 31 August, when Justice Beech-Jones commences as Chief Judge at Common Law.

Help Shape The Future Of Animal Welfare Laws In NSW

Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall has released the NSW Animal Welfare Reform – Discussion Paper as the next step in the NSW Government’s commitment to modernise animal welfare legislation.

Mr Marshall said while the care of animals was a universal value, it was critical the state’s laws provide the right legal framework to protect all animals.

“I am calling on all members of the community to help shape the future of animal welfare in NSW,” Mr Marshall said.

“Expectations and animal welfare science have changed drastically in the 40 years since our existing laws were written. With the community’s help, three pieces of legislation will be replaced with one modern Act.

“The NSW Animal Welfare Reform – Discussion Paper outlines a series of proposals about the future of animal welfare legislation and it’s important all stakeholders, from farmers to mum and dad pet owners, have the opportunity to provide us their feedback.

“We now have Australia’s toughest set of animal cruelty penalties, but it is vital our legislation is in line with the best available science and community expectations.”

The feedback on the discussion paper will support legislation development to create an animal management framework that is easier to understand, closes loopholes and reflects new best-practice since the original legislation was developed 40 years ago.

This will be the second round of consultation on animal welfare reform and Mr Marshall said significant feedback had already been gathered.

“More than 1,100 stakeholders including key representative bodies and experts had their say in the first round of consultation and this has been used to develop a series of proposals outlined in the NSW Animal Welfare Reform – Discussion Paper,” Mr Marshall said.

Proposals in the Discussion Paper include:
  • Setting a minimum care requirement for those responsible for animals;
  • Clarifying what constitutes cruelty and who is responsible for the care of an animal;
  • Introducing a modern penalties framework with increased penalty amounts and new and enhanced offences; and
  • Providing updated powers and tools to protect animals.
If you would like to have your say, email your submission to animalwelfare.submissions@dpi.nsw.gov.au or visit the NSW Department of Primary Industries website.

Consultation is open until Friday, 3 September 2021.

Free Mental Health Workshops For Parents And Carers

Parents, carers and community members supporting young people experiencing mental health challenges can register to attend a free mental health workshop hosted by headspace, thanks to a significant investment by the NSW Government in response to the ongoing COVID restrictions.

NSW Health Minister Mr. Hazzard said the workshops will help parents and carers better understand the unique challenges facing young people and how to access appropriate support.

“We want everyone in the community to have the opportunity to learn more about the experiences of young people so they can be supportive as well as becoming strong advocates for positive mental health through what is a difficult time for us all,” said Mr Hazzard.

“This is about improving mental health literacy for parents and carers so they can help them with their work or study and support them in areas such as learning shareable coping skills, accessing local support services and recognizing warning signs.”

Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor said the sessions will benefit the whole community.
“These sessions are for any parent or carer who is worried about their child and doesn’t know how to start a conversation about what’s going on in their lives,” said Mrs Taylor.

“We’re building a safer, stronger NSW, and these workshops will address local challenges, point the way to local support services and allow the community to ask questions about what they can do to help young people who are struggling.”

“We want parents and carers to be able to talk about mental wellbeing in a way that doesn’t inadvertently shame young people or encourage them to stay silent, but access the tools and supports that are available to them.”

Register for:

Manly, NSW Parent and Carer mental health education session to be held on August 19 at:
Pittwater NSW Parent and Carer mental health education session to be held on August 31 at:

MVR Upgrade Road Closure

Scheduled Roadwork; Road Upgrade and Lane Widening: Ingleside To Mona Vale - Mona Vale Road Between Manor Road and Ponderosa Parade/Samuel St: Monday 23 Aug 2021 to Friday 27 Aug 2021

Mona Vale Rd will be closed to all traffic except buses and heavy vehicles which will be allowed through under stop/slow traffic arrangements.
Mon (6:00am to 6:00pm); Road closed both directions
Tue (6:00am to 6:00pm); Road closed both directions
Wed (6:00am to 6:00pm); Road closed both directions
Thu (6:00am to 6:00pm); Road closed both directions
Fri (6:00am to 6:00pm); Road closed both directions

Diversions
Light vehicle detour via Powderworks Rd, Garden St and Pittwater Rd to return to Mona Vale Rd, or Chiltern Rd, Cicada Glen Rd and Cabbage Tree Rd to turn left into Mona Vale Rd.

CABPRA Notice: Resident Survey For Plateau Park

August 4, 2021: The Clareville and Bilgola Plateau Residents Association
CABPRA has been contacted by Northern Beaches Councillor Alex McTaggart seeking the associations opinion of the current and future activities in the park.

Monitoring of social media platforms indicate some conflict between environmental damage to vegetation and recreational bike use.

Plateau Park is an important environmental and recreational area. Adjoining and local residents must be consulted before any changes are considered.

CABPRA seeks your feedback on the use and maintenance of YOUR local park.
CABPRA executives meet regularly with council officers so it is important to have a strong understanding of any issues regarding this park.

Please send any comments to cabpra@gmail.com by August 15.
More about CABPRA at: http://cabpra.wordpress.com



Photo: Powerful Owl Release in March 2018; a Powerful Owl chick was released in Plateau Park following its recuperation in Taronga Park. Photo of of two youngsters and a parent by Liz de Soyres provided to PNHA for use.
Powerful Owl Release into Plateau Park in 2018. PNHA photo

Fee-Free TAFE NSW Courses Available

Member for Wakehurst, Brad Hazzard is encouraging locals to take advantage of new fee-free TAFE NSW courses to build their skills during the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Mental health, digital security, business administration and construction industry skill sets are just some of the 10 COVID rapid response courses on offer to people through the lockdown.

“Training will be delivered through either online, self-paced learning or teacher-led virtual classrooms, which means people can upskill from their own home, with the confidence they are completing high quality, accredited TAFE training,” Mr Hazzard said.

“This is a great opportunity for locals to pursue further training pathways to get a head-start towards a full qualification should they wish to continue studying down the track.”

Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education Geoff Lee said the fee-free training in employment growth areas was just one of the ways the NSW Government was supporting the community through the lockdown.

“Whether you are in lockdown in Greater Sydney, or in a regional community, I urge NSW residents to take advantage of the free training options available that will help build the skills needed to get a head start in a post-COVID economy,” Mr Lee said.

“TAFE NSW is committed to helping the people of NSW to grow their skills in a COVID-safe way.

The short courses are in addition to the hundreds of NSW Government fee-free training already available for those who meet eligibility criteria, such as Mature Aged Workers Scholarships, Women in Business, and the JobTrainer program.

If you are an Australian citizen, permanent resident, aged 15 years or older, no longer at school and living or working in NSW you may be eligible for the COVID rapid response courses.

The fee-free short courses include:
  • Reading plans for builders
  • Construction materials and work, health and safety
  • Digital security basics
  • Medical terminology
  • Business administration skills
  • Business skills for supervisors
  • Producing documents and spreadsheets
  • Food handling
  • Mental health
  • Alcohol and other drug work
For more information and to see if you are eligible, visit www.tafensw.edu.au/fee-free-short-courses or call 131 601.

Councils Welcome Call To Send Infrastructure Contribution Rule Changes Back To Drawing Board

August 13, 2021
Controversial new planning laws expected to slash developer contributions to local community infrastructure have been rejected by a Parliamentary Committee today following Local Government NSW (LGNSW) intervention.

LGNSW President Linda Scott said the Committee recommended a hold on the proposed changes, which would have deferred and reduced the critical developer payments used by councils to deliver increased infrastructure to support new developments.

“The NSW Government tried to rush the changes through as part of a new Bill introduced during the busyness of State Budget Week, but LGNSW discovered it, pushed back and as a result it was sent to the NSW Upper House’s Inquiry Committee this week,” Cr Scott said.

“I spoke at the Inquiry last month – along with a number of mayors of all political persuasions from across NSW – and called for the rushed legislation to be withdrawn.

“It is unconscionable that our sector was not consulted when the Government tried to push through the new Environmental Planning and Assessment Amendment (Infrastructure Contributions) Bill 2021 – particularly considering the enormous consequences for our councils and our communities.

“Infrastructure contributions are the primary way councils fund the demand for increased infrastructure brought on by new developments in their areas.

“To delay or reduce payments would result in a consequential hit to important community infrastructure such as pools and parks, as well as investment and jobs that would have been generated through the design, development, delivery and operation of these public facilities.”

Cr Scott said there was a complete lack of detail in the Bill.

“We don’t know what will be in the Ministerial directions and regulations that are yet to be developed,” she said.

“Without these important details it is impossible to know the far-reaching financial implications for our councils and communities.”

The Upper House Infrastructure Contributions Bill Inquiry Committee Report, released this week (August 10), recommended the Bill’s proposed changes to infrastructure contributions not proceed until the draft regulations have been developed and released for consultation.

“The Committee also recommended the reviews into the rate pegging system, benchmarking and the essential works list be considered in any changes once they have been published by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal,” Cr Scott said.

“This is exactly the outcome we were seeking in presenting our case to the Inquiry.

“Councils welcome the Committee’s recommendation and together, we call on the NSW Government to withdraw the Bill to rewrite it completely.”

Small Business Rebates For Hygiene Items

We hope the Northern Beaches community is staying safe and healthy during this time.

We understand that it has been a difficult time especially for our trade customers. However, there is some good news to share. Safe Work NSW is now providing safety rebates of up to $500 for eligible small businesses and sole traders for the purchases of hand sanitiser stations as it now a requirement for all construction sites to have an appropriate check-in facility and sanitiser station.

Before you apply for the rebate please ensure you complete the following: 
  1. check the terms and conditions to make sure you are eligible
  2. attend a free eligible event (online) advisory from a SafeWork NSW officer
  3. buy and install eligible safety items to address a safety problem in your workplace

To assist our customers with the new regulations we’re offering StandiTiser hand sanitiser stations for $169. These stands are easy to install, comply with the new rebate and are ideal for visitors and staff to check in and sanitise their hands. 



Watch this short video on how to claim the $500 small business rebate.

NSW Government To Provide Council Financial Support To Save Jobs

August 13, 2021
Councils have welcomed the NSW Government’s agreement to provide financial support to the local government sector, but warned the money must flow quickly and efficiently if jobs are to be saved.

Local Government NSW (LGNSW) President Linda Scott welcomed this week’s announcement, which will see the reinstatement of last year’s Council Job Retention Allowance (CJRA).

“While businesses and individuals are able to access the State and Federal government’s $5.1 billion COVID support funding, local government has been ineligible for any of it,” Cr Scott said.

“As a result, our councils are being forced to stand down hundreds of staff due to the closure of libraries and recreational and other facilities and are struggling to keep people employed.

“This CJRA funding will not only save jobs, it will also ensure the retention of vital council services such as keeping parks and community facilities clean and safe in the middle of a pandemic.

“And there is a flow-on benefit for the private sector, as local government workers spend their wages to support small local businesses and help keep those jobs going.”

Cr Scott warned that the key to the success of these efforts was ensuring the money flowed quickly and efficiently, rather than sitting idle in Government coffers because the criteria was too restrictive.

“We need to take lessons from the last rollout of this money,” she said.

“The criteria for that CJRA rollout were so convoluted and restrictive that many councils could not take advantage of them.

“Only $479,000 out of an initial $112.5 million allocation could be accessed – that’s less than 1% of the total available funds.

“Making those unspent funds easily accessible now is urgent and important – but unless it gets out the door fast it will fail in its objective of saving jobs and supporting local communities.”

State Of Volunteering Report Reveals The True Value Of Volunteering To NSW Is $127 Billion

August 9, 2021
The true value of volunteering to communities across NSW has been uncovered in a first of its kind report showing a massive $127 billion in annual social and economic benefits from volunteering across the state.

The findings were contained in the NSW State of Volunteering Report released today by The Centre for Volunteering; an in-depth investigation into the value of volunteering across the state.

The report found that almost 4.9 million adults volunteered in NSW, giving more than 1.5 billion hours of their time in 2020. Their efforts delivered a return of $3.30 for every $1 invested in volunteering services across the state.

Around 28 percent of volunteers reported being badly impacted by COVID, while corporate volunteering also reduced by around 35 percent over the three years to 2020, with the impact of the pandemic a likely major source of the reduction.

While older people from NSW were less likely to volunteer due to COVID, young people and existing volunteers helped to maintain volunteer services over the period.

Overall, volunteering remained strong during 2020, with informal volunteering and online and digital volunteering programs helping to provide an overall increase in volunteering hours in 2020.

The report was undertaken by the Institute of Project Management which surveyed more than 1,100 volunteers and received more than 1,000 responses from volunteer involving organisations.

It tracked volunteering numbers, trends, attitudes and barriers and opportunities to grow volunteering and its benefits across the state.

It produced a detailed cost-benefit analysis of the social, cultural and economic impacts of volunteering on communities in NSW.

The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said:

“This report shows us that we have been under-valuing the contribution of volunteers in NSW,” Ms. Rygate said.

“The sector has never had this level of detailed insight into the value of volunteering. But now we know, we need to take action to recognize, support and grow this contribution.

“In particular, we need to find ways to support our volunteer managers who are taking on more and more work to support the sector.

“The private, government and community sectors all benefit from the contribution of volunteers; and so, it is right that we should all work together to support and grow volunteering across the state.”

NSW State of Volunteering Key findings
  • In 2020, nearly 4.9 million residents of New South Wales over 18 years of age gave time as a volunteer, or 75.9% of the adult population.
  • also gave of their time informally to other non-household or non-family members in 2020, through acts such as domestic work, transport and child-care.
  • They donated at least 1.5 billion volunteer hours to the community in 2020.
Other key insights
  • The volunteering sector is nearly four-times larger than the New South Wales public sector workforce and the same size as the private sector.
  • 87.6% of NSW residents aged 18-24 volunteered in 2020 – over 640,000 youth in total.
  • During 2020, 32% of volunteers reported they directly donated money to organisations they volunteered for – additional to donations of time or expenses.
  • 42.3% volunteers also reported making donations to other organisations or charities.
  • More non-volunteers were unsure as to how to go about volunteering (25.9%) than those who were genuinely not interested (21.7%).
  • Volunteers indicated that they are twice as likely to volunteer more over the next three years than less.
  • 82.4% of volunteer-involving organisations relied on volunteers aged over 65 years old; and
  • 49.6% included skilled professionals among the ranks of their volunteers.
Impacts of COVD-19 on volunteering
  • 27.9 percent of volunteers said their volunteering was negatively impacted by COVID-19.
  • The most frequently reported change to volunteering during 2020 was fewer older volunteers or those with under-lying health issues, while other notable changes mentioned included more young people and worker age volunteers.
  • Companies wanting to volunteer employees’ time decreased by 35.3% over the last three years – potential reasons for the decrease include impacts of COVID-19, remote working and the current economic environment.
The NSW State of Volunteering Report was supported and funded by the NSW Department of Communities and Justice.

ADF Training In New South Wales From July To December 2021

NB: for those hearing aircraft/helicopters late a night and 2-3am- many thanks to Cr. De Luca for finding out what's going on

Australian Defence Force personnel will conduct maritime counter-terrorism training in Sydney Harbour and New South Wales coastal waters from the Central Coast to Jervis Bay from July to December 2021. 

The training will be conducted during the day and night. 

The public should not be alarmed if they see or hear military watercraft, vehicles, unmanned aerial surveillance systems and military personnel carrying weapons. 

Blank and paint ammunition will be used during some aspects of the training.

People who see the training should not be concerned that any of the locations are under any form of actual threat.

This essential training is vital to maintain Australia’s world-class military capability. It is not a part of the Australian Government’s COVID-19 response. The training is being conducted in a manner that accounts for COVID-19 restrictions and good health management processes.

Defence is unable to provide media access or further information, including specific timings, regarding this training in order to protect operational tactics, techniques and procedures.

New Policy To Drive Housing Choice And Supply

More diverse housing is on the way for NSW , with a new planning policy making it mandatory that boarding houses are affordable while introducing co-living as a new housing option.

The proposed Housing State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) will be the first principle-led, consolidated  Housing SEPP, and  is now  on exhibition for public comment.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the housing  options  offer new housing types and tenures to accommodate Sydney’s growing population.

“As our population grows and changes, so do our housing needs. Traditional housing arrangements are just not suitable for many, especially those on low incomes,” Mr Stokes said.

“The proposed SEPP has been developed following extensive consultation and we’re giving everyone a final chance to have their say to ensure we get it right.

“The changes streamline planning pathways in support of local strategic planning, so we get the right mix of housing types in the right locations.

“It is  part  of  our  wider  efforts  to  boost  housing  supply,  which  include progressing rezonings in key growth areas, particularly Greater Sydney, and establishing the Regional Housing Taskforce to identify roadblocks to housing supply  in regional NSW.”

The Housing SEPP also proposes that boarding houses would only be permitted  in  low density residential areas if councils allow it, while providing clarity around where seniors living is permitted.

The draft Housing SEPP contains new and updated provisions, including:
  • Boarding Houses – rooms will need to be rented at an affordable rate and managed by a registered community housing provider;
  • Co-living housing – housing designed for community living, with private spaces connected to community facilities, and includes student housing; and
  • Seniors Housing – setting out zones where seniors housing will be permissible to provide more certainty for councils and the community, and to encourage development in accessible locations.
For more information and to provide your feedback visit planning.nsw.gov.au/housing-sepp

Have your say
You can view the Housing SEPP consultation draft and supporting documents on the Planning Portal.
We encourage you to have your say and submit feedback on the Housing SEPP consultation draft via the NSW Planning Portal by 29 August 2021.

Calling All Artists!

We are inviting artists to submit artworks for our 2021 inaugural Rotary Art Exhibition and Auction to help raise funds for some very worthy charities, making a difference in our local and global community. 
For more information, please contact artshow@rotaryuppernorthernbeaches.org or Liz 0412 007 068 or Gill 0409 783 295.

This is a great example of how Rotary supports the community.  Even during lockdown, we continue to have productive meetings via zoom. We continue to make a difference and we enjoy each other’s company. We also have some great speakers lined up over the coming weeks. 

To find out more about Rotary and/or attend one of our meetings, please call Tony Butera on 0418 280 849.

Kimbriki: Essential Services Only

In line with current NSW Health Orders, and lockdown restrictions, Kimbriki is open for Essential Services ONLY.

The government advice is that residential customers wanting to drop household waste and recyclables to Kimbriki are NOT classified as “Essential” and we ask that any non-essential customers please delay visiting Kimbriki until the lockdown restrictions are lifted.

Please be aware that you risk incurring significant fines if your visit to Kimbriki is not essential in accordance with this list.

To view the current stay-at-home rules in place for greater Sydney please go to http://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/rules/greater-sydney

If you do need to make a trip to Kimbriki, and you meet one of the identified essential criteria, please be aware the following site changes and requirements in place:
  • Kimbriki is open seven days a week from 7am – 5pm for essential services only.
  • You MUST wear a mask at all times while onsite.
  • You MUST practice social distancing at all times.
  • You MUST not approach staff.
  • YOU MUST check in using the QR codes provided, or manual sign-in forms if you do not have a phone.
To view the full list of COVID related changes on-site at Kimbriki please go to www.kimbriki.com.

Please Dispose Of Single Use Masks At Home

On a short walk yesterday three masks were picked up of the ground within 10 metres. Same thing the day before. These probably dropped out of a pocket or something alike that after use  - but, these can impact on wildlife and cause death.

Let's look after our wildlife as well as each other during this latest challenge. 
Please be careful and ensure you take yours home so we don't see this:


Aspiring Writers Mentorship Program

Are you a budding writer?
Do you have a manuscript ready and would love to be published?
The Children's Book Council of Australia (CBCA) NSW Branch is pleased to announce that the Aspiring Writers Mentorship Program is being re-launched in 2021 with sponsorship by Cathie Tasker who will mentor the winner.  Fremantle Press will provide 2 runners-up with access to their online writing course plus the text How to be an author by Georgia Richter & Deborah Hunn.

The Aspiring Writers Mentorship Program aims to foster the talent of aspiring writers of children's literature across Australia and is open to all Australian citizens residing in Australia.

For the entry details and terms and conditions and to submit your entry by August 31, 2021 visit: https://www.cbcansw.org.au/aspiring-writers-mentorship-program

August 8 - 14, 2021: Issue 505

This Issue: full list in Contents page 

Front Page Issue 505 

Campaigners Ask Pittwater Councillors For Demerger Poll

National Landcare Award Goes To Andrew Stewart + Floating Landcare Wins National Partnerships For Landcare Award

Mona Vale Road East Upgrade Update & Design Modification: August 2021

Pictures The Clareville/Long Beach Reserve: Some History Notes + Current Day Photos

Aquatics NSW Shark Meshing (Bather Protection) Program 2020/21 Annual Performance Report: 90% Of Northern Beaches Marine Animals Entangled Were Not Targeted Sharks, Included are Threatened or Protected Species Mortalities

Closing The Gap Implementation Plan - Address given by The Hon. Scott Morrison, MP, Prime Minister of Australia, August 5th, 2021 + more

Science Week Runs August 14-22 2021 - A Cache Of Brilliant Online Events For All Ages + Downloadable Resource Books For Food: Different By Design Theme + Ideas To Do Locally!

DIY Ideas Science Week 2021 Food Theme: A Salad Garden For Children 

Park Bench Philosopher Tongerlongeter — The Tasmanian Resistance Fighter We Should Remember As A War Hero

Environment CABPRA Notice: Resident Survey for Plateau Park, Hazard Reduction Burns For Sydneys National Parks, It’s Magpie Swooping Season Once Again, Whale Feeding Off Warriewood - August 3rd 2021, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment August Newsletter, Forum & 2021 AGM, Pittwater Natural Heritage Association (PNHA) Newsletter No: 88, Discussion Paper To Encourage Views On Proposed Planning Controls, Reinstate The Marine Reserve From Rock Pool “Kiddies Corner” South Palm Beach: Petition, Echidna Breeding Season Commences, Scientists Target 'Ross River' Mosquito, NSW Sustainability Awards Now Open For Entry, Work begins to Reconnect River Country in the Southern Murray-Darling Basin, BirdLife Australia News August 2021: Hooded Plover Biennial Count results are in + Grave news for Gang-gangs and Glossy Black-Cockatoos + World Heritage Listing for important shorebird site, Four Natural and Three Cultural Sites Added To UNESCO’s World Heritage List, Australia Must Slash Climate Pollution This Decade: Joint Statement, NSW Forest Logging Agreement Faces Legal Challenge Over Climate and Biodiversity, ARENA News, Australian Marine and Coastal Leaders Call For National Strategy To Protect Oceans, EPA fines coal company $30K for alleged water pollution offences, Shell CSG 1.1 million litres spill fine labelled a joke, Whitehaven Winchester South Coal Mine Would Wreck Water, Kill Koalas, Contribute To Climate Crisis State Critics, Plastic Creates 'Evolutionary Trap' For Young Sea Turtles, New Method To Detect Impact Of Sea Level Rise, Dodgy tree loppers are scamming elderly homeowners and hacking up healthy trees; Here’s what you need to know, Australians are 3 times more worried about climate change than COVID; A mental health crisis is looming, Complicated, costly and downright frustrating: Aussies keen to cut emissions with clean energy at home get little support, We asked landholders how they feel about biodiversity offsets, 5 things to watch for in the latest IPCC report on climate science, Emperor Penguins Increasingly Threatened By Climate Change; Recommended As Threatened Species Under US Endangered Species Act, Productivity Of Kelp Forests; Sans The Iconic Kelp, Overfishing and Other Human Pressures Are Severely Harming Many Marine Protected Areas Around The World,  Bushcare In Pittwater: when and where, Community Gardens, Groups, + Reserves 

Inbox News In Memory Of Hal Wootten; Founding Dean Of UNSW Law & Justice, NSW Government Powers On Hillston Radar, Learning Foreign Languages Can Affect The Processing Of Music In The Brain, Exercise Improves Health Through Changes On DNA, Testing and Treating Newborns For Spinal Muscular Atrophy: Saving Lives and Healthcare Costs, Reducing The Cost Of Medicines Through New PBS Listings, Why Uncertainty Makes Us Change Our Behaviour - Even When We Shouldn't, Common Weed Could Spell Bellyache For Gluten Intolerant, Pacific nations grapple with COVID’s terrible toll and the desperate need for vaccines, Accelerated jabs for younger people after Doherty modelling shows it’s vital to vaccinate them quickly

The NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment has announced this week that the unique Crown land reserve in the Central West that is home to an engineering marvel and stunning scenery has been reopened to the public after a 30 year hiatus.

Public access to Junction Reefs Recreation Reserve, near Mandurama, had been restricted by a gold mining lease on the site since 1991. Now the community is again officially welcome to visit the reserve after the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment – Crown Lands negotiated access with mining company OceanaGold and the Junction Reefs Land Manager Board.

Visitors can view the historic Junction Reefs Dam (also known as Belubula Dam) and its distinctive arches and brick curves, as well as a waterfall at the site located on the Belubula River.

The dam, which is listed on the State Heritage Register, is the only one of its type in NSW, and considered an engineering icon as the first multi-arched dam built in Australia. It was designed and built by civil engineer Oscar Shulze in a ravine above a crushing mill, to provide hydropower for gold extraction and water supply during the gold rush. This was the first hydro-electric power plant in NSW.

Oscar Shulze was the engineer for the Union Bridge Company of New York, who were the successful tenderers for the construction of the first Hawkesbury railway bridge. Biographical research compiled on this gentleman and the Beluba Dam itself runs in this compilation, however, this week an insight into this structure on the Hawkesbury first run in 2018 when repair works were being undertaken, provides a prelude to Science Week 2021, August 14-22, with a local focus. Engineering is the creative application of science and mathematics to solve complex problems.

The first Hawkesbury River bridge was opened on May 1st 1889, and the second on July 1st, 1946, meaning this great structure has just celebrated its 75th anniversary.

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: August 1st, 2021

Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches Branch Awards Of Excellence 2021 Winners Announced

The SLS SNB Branch Awards of Excellence were announced on Friday August 6, 2021  from among the hundreds of nominees in all categories and from all clubs. The event was held as an online  function  that provided an opportunity to congratulate winners on their achievements.  Branch winners announced progress to the SLSNSW Awards of Excellence which are being held virtually on the 28th of August.

The SLS SNB Awards of Excellence winners announced were:
Harry Ragan Outstanding Service Award - Cameron Powell of Warriewood
Raymond Matthew Brown Radio Operator Award - Ian Poole of Manly
President's Award - Peter Kinsey of Long Reef
Patrol Audit 97% - North Narrabeen SLSC
Patrol Audit 96% - Dee Why SLSC, Narrabeen Beach SLSC, Warriewood SLSC
Club of the Year - Warriewood SLSC

Congratulations to the following members who have been presented with Life Membership and Distinguished Service Awards for their contributions to Surf Life Saving

Life Membership:
Tracey Hare-Boyd of North Steyne
Tracey Lake of Narrabeen Beach
Tony Hilliger of North Narrabeen
Bernie Burrows of North Steyne
Gordon Lang of Palm Beach 
David Murray of North Curl Curl

Distinguished Service:
Kieran Menzies of Newport
Allen Lakeman of Dee Why
The late Annie Gleeson of Manly

Congratulations to the following 2021 Services Team and Community Education Award Winners:
Services Team - Nippers Dolphins & Marlins by Newport SLSC
Community Education Program - Community Resuscitation by Queenscliff SLSC

Congratulations to Victoria O'Halloran of Manly, who has won the 2021 Administrator of the Year Award.

Congratulations to the following 2021 Surf Sports Award Winners:
Athlete - Jemma Smith of Newport
Coach - Luke Morrison of Newport
Masters Athlete - Shannon Job of North Steyne
Official - Steve Haggett of North Narrabeen
Surf Sports Team - 6 Person R&R Team from Freshwater
Young Athlete - Dominque Melbourn of North Curl Curl

Congratulations to the following 2021 Education Award Winners: 
Assessor - Barry Antella OAM of Queenscliff
Facilitator - Peter Fenley of Bilgola
Trainer - Emily Buckle of Dee Why

Congratulations to the following 2021 Member Services Award Winners: 
Youth Volunteer - Sam Capell of Newport
Volunteer - Tom Waters of Avalon Beach
Innovation - 24 Hour Row by Nathan & Melissa Wellings of Avalon Beach

Congratulations to the following 2021 Lifesaving Award Winners:
Rescue of the Year - North Steyne SLSC, March 2021
Patrol Captain - Nick Fewtrell of Bungan Beach
Support Services Member - Peter Probert of Newport
Youth Surf Life Saver - Emily Thornton of Queenscliff
Youth Surf Life Saver (Highly Commended) - Anna le Blang of Mona Vale
Surf Life Saver - Rod McGibbon of Bungan Beach

CABPRA Notice: Resident Survey For Plateau Park

August 4, 2021: The Clareville and Bilgola Plateau Residents Association
CABPRA has been contacted by Northern Beaches Councillor Alex McTaggart seeking the associations opinion of the current and future activities in the park.

Monitoring of social media platforms indicate some conflict between environmental damage to vegetation and recreational bike use.

Plateau Park is an important environmental and recreational area. Adjoining and local residents must be consulted before any changes are considered.

CABPRA seeks your feedback on the use and maintenance of YOUR local park.
CABPRA executives meet regularly with council officers so it is important to have a strong understanding of any issues regarding this park.

Please send any comments to cabpra@gmail.com by August 15.
More about CABPRA at: http://cabpra.wordpress.com



Photo: Powerful Owl Release in March 2018; a Powerful Owl chick was released in Plateau Park following its recuperation in Taronga Park. Photo of of two youngsters and a parent by Liz de Soyres provided to PNHA for use.
Powerful Owl Release into Plateau Park in 2018. PNHA photo

Mona Vale Road East Upgrade: August Work Update - Design Modification

A recent traffic switch on Mona Vale Road diverting motorists to its northern lanes has allowed work to start on the southern lanes between Boundary and Daydream streets, Ponderosa Parade and Emma Street, and the Foley Street intersection.

We are making some changes to our design that will provide good outcomes for the local community. The changes include relocating the shared path for cyclists and pedestrians, and extending the heavy vehicle arrester bed further up the slope to slow heavy vehicles down. 

We expect the shared zone to be used by residents north of Mona Vale Road and west of Samuel St, and anyone wishing to access Lane Cove Road through the bush. Commuter cyclists and cycle groups are more likely to use the new 3m (approx.) wide shoulders to be constructed along Mona Vale Road between Manor Road and Daydream Street as observed along other sections of Mona Vale Road where wide shoulders have been provided. The realignment of the shared user path into the existing shared zone is to provide greater visibility for those who will use this route rather than be hidden between a noise wall and a fenced/vegetation border. 

These changes are outlined in the Addendum Review of Environmental Factors (REF) (PDF, 18.6Mb) review or download a copy at: mona-vale-road-addendum-ref-08-2021.pdf  - dated August 4, 2021

Display of the addendum review of environmental factors

This addendum REF is on display for 28 days. The documents are available as pdf files on the Transport for NSW website at: nswroads.work/mvreast

How can I make a submission?

To make a submission about this proposal, please send your written comments to:  monavaleroad@rms.nsw.gov.au

Submissions must be received by the closure of the display period. Submissions will be managed in accordance with the Transport for NSW Privacy Statement which can be found here: www.transport.nsw.gov.au/privacy-statement

Visit: roads-waterways.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/mona-vale-road/mvreast/index 

Garigal National Park: Notice Of 1080 Pest Management Of Foxes

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service will be conducting a baiting program using manufactured baits, fresh baits and Canid Pest Ejectors (CPEs) containing 1080 poison (sodium fluroacetate) for the control of foxes. The program is continuous and ongoing between Sunday 1 August 2021 and Monday 31 January 2022 in Garigal National Park.

Don’t touch baits or ejector devices. All baiting locations are identifiable by signs.

Domestic pets are not permitted in NSW national parks and reserves. Pets and working dogs may be affected (1080 is lethal to cats and dogs). Pets and working dogs must be restrained or muzzled in the vicinity and must not enter the baiting location. In the event of accidental poisoning seek immediate veterinary assistance.

Fox baiting in these reserves is aimed at reducing their impact on threatened species.

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the Forestville office 02 9451 3479 or Lane Cove office on 8448 0400.

Ruth Park Account Of A Storm At Collaroy When Living At ‘Wits End’ 

Past Profile of the Week and former Warriewood SLSC member Norman Godden writes from New Zealand last week to remind us of the account of Ruth Park of a storm she witnessed at Collaroy Beach in 1945.

Norman says;

‘’I read the amazingly researched article on Narrabeen, Collaroy and Narrabeen Lakes. What was really interesting was the information on the storms over the years which washed away homes along Collaroy Beach. I was aged 8 in 1945 when my Dad took me to Collaroy to have a look at the major destruction along the beach, resulting from an huge storm. The damage was far worse than resulted from later storms, including those which wrecked homes at Fisherman’s Beach at Collaroy. Whole houses had simply disappeared and those left were completely wrecked, some a pile of debris and others skeletons of their former selves. The beach was covered with stoves, toilets, kitchenware, tiles and so on. In those days, the beach was still covered with tank traps, many weighing tons having been moved by the power of the storm.

What might interest you is that two of Australia’s greatest authors, Ruth Park and D’Arcy Niland had to flee the storm from the boarding house “Wits End” where they were living with their young baby.  Like most budding authors, they were as poor as Church Mice, living from hand to mouth. The description of that night, as in her autobiography “Fishing in the Styx” (pages 108-112), is terrifying. They ended up standing on Pittwater Road with other refugees from the houses, with some blankets around them which they managed to salvage. 

Ruth Park went on to publish 50 books including “Harp in the South” and “Dear Hearts and Gentle People”, and D’arcy Niland many, including the famous “The Shiralee” and “Call me when the Cross Turns Over”. In later years Ruth lived at Balgowlah, quite near us.’’




Thank you for your input sir!

For those interested, in June 2016 John Illingsworth placed these words of Ruth’s in a short film he made about Narrabeen – Collaroy Coastal Erosion, available at and embedded below: https://youtu.be/FJlHH8OJMOI 

Photos: Ruth Park holding her cat outside her home in Balgowlah, 10 December 1962
By John Aloysius Mulligan courtesy National Library of Australia [nla.pic-an24574247] and cover of “Fishing in the Styx”

Council Provides Facts On The Collaroy Residents’ Seawall

Friday, 6 August 2021
Residents may have seen that the first group of homeowners on the beachfront at Collaroy are mid-way through constructing the seawall that will protect their properties should an east coast low recur on the scale that impacted this stretch of beach in June 2016.

As Council has already completed protection works on public land, and there’s been discussions about the owners’ seawall recently, the Council have summarised some key facts about the first of the Collaroy owners’ seawalls this week ands sent these out via a news update. These read:

1. It will improve beach access
You may not realise that there have been large volumes of rock protecting properties along Collaroy-Narrabeen beach for many decades. There are currently over 400 square metres of large rocks scattered across this part of the beach alone. Even at low tide when the beach is eroded, and especially during heavy swells, this can make it difficult to walk the full length of the beach. The rocks will be removed from the beach by Christmas 2021, including those at the end of Wetherill Street. Removing this hazard, which has been impacting the beach for more than 40 years, widens the beach and allows the community safer access.

2. It will support more natural beach processes
The works were subject to a rigorous review by independent expert coastal engineers and scientists. Protection works have been on this part of the beach for more than 40 years. The new works are set further towards the back of the beach than the old rocks. Removing the rocks and rubble reduces localised erosion and will allow for a wider beach in this area, in turn promoting more natural beach regeneration.

3. It's only just taller than the rock wall it replaces 
The owners are mid-construction so it’s hard to envisage what the end result will look like. The height of the wall under construction is similar to the level of the backyards of the properties it is protecting. During construction, the whole wall is exposed on both sides. Once this wall is complete, at least three quarters will be covered by sand, landscaped and integrated with the surrounding landscape, like the artist’s impression above.

4. The current works are entirely on private land
The owners selected this design because its narrow footprint, will prevent the works coming forward onto the public beach as has been the case historically. This becomes more beneficial to the beach as we move further north with even more rock removed. Alternative designs like a sloping rock wall (as installed in front of the Council car park further south) would have required more land, resulted in an unnatural alignment and taken space away from the public beach.

5. The residents are funding 80% of the works
As private properties are the substantial beneficiaries of the protection, it is reasonable that they bear most of the expense for protecting their land. Council and the NSW Government are contributing 10% each to the cost of the works.

6. It’s scheduled for completion before Christmas
By Christmas 2021, this work and the completed Collaroy car park works will account for around 450m of the 1.3km of the works needed to protect the private and public beachfront properties.  

7. It would be problematic and costly for Council to build these works for the resident
If Council was to build the private works, there is no simple mechanism to recover this expense from those who benefit. That means all ratepayers would foot the whole $25 million bill. Council has been lobbying for a change to legislation so that protection works in NSW can be built quickly and in accordance with community expectations but can also be assured that the costs can be recouped.

8. Council will continue to manage the beach into the future
Council will continue to move sand from the entrance to Narrabeen Lagoon to Collaroy as required. We are also working with the NSW Government and Sydney Coastal Councils Group on proposals to bring additional sand onto our beaches in response to climate change from offshore marine sand deposits or from clean terrestrial sand. These types of programs are new and require the highest levels of environmental scrutiny before they could be progressed.

Image: Artist Impression of completed sea wall- image courtesy NBC.

Residents Concerned About Bilgola Bends Development Proposal 

Residents have written to PON this week expressing concern about a DA at 521 Barrenjoey Road, just south of the bends entrance. Objections to the scale and size of the compound, along with impacts on traffic, as well as a precedent it may set, are among their concerns. The application requires the removal of established trees on public land as well as and including the endangered Asterolasia elegans.

As the proposal would require significant excavations, stated to be undertaken over a 10 week period, the impact on traffic flow would also be affected during construction.

The Notification period for DA 2021/1164 runs 03/08/2021 to 17/08/2021



Image: 521 Barrenjoey road at present - Google maps image.

Palm Beach Café Extended Hours-Seating Proposal

Lodged this week with Council is a proposal to extend the trading hours until 8pm Sunday to Thursday and until 9.30pm on Fridays and Saturdays for this popular local café and modify the outside seating arrangements. 

Plans and Documents for the proposal at 1031 Barrenjoey Road Palm Beach to support the modifications are available on Council's website under  DA2021/1311 with the Notification period listed as 12/08/2021 to 26/08/2021 for feedback.


Council's Plan For Stormwater Improvements In Garden Street

Council are planning on upgrading the infrastructure on the eastern side of Garden Street at Mullet Creek due to damage caused to the structure over the years by storms.
The proposal opened for feedback on July 19 and closes on August 8th

The proposed work includes:
  • renewing the headwall and wingwalls
  • upgrading the existing undersized apron and scour protection
  • upsizing the existing stormwater pipe connection to the southern wingwall
  • installing new pedestrian fence.
View the plans and have your say by:
Feedback closes Sunday 8 August 2021.

Council anticipate commencing planned work in Spring 2021. They will notify local residents at least two weeks before starting any work.

Traffic and pedestrian management will be in place during the proposed works as necessary to minimise any impact on road users.

It is anticipated that the existing pedestrian median island in Garden Street above the stormwater culverts will need to be temporarily relocated to facilitate adequate access for the construction works.

The site will be temporarily fenced off and pedestrians will be diverted around the work site. Fencing will also be in place on the western side of the culvert crossing to restrict access to the work site via the upstream end of the culvert.

Temporary relocation of the existing bus stop on the eastern side of Garden Street will be required. The bus stop will likely be relocated to the intersection of Garden Street and Irrawong Road approximately 50 metres to the south, pending approval from Transport for NSW.

Construction works will generally occur Monday to Friday between 7am and 5pm.

Free Community Pantry: Frenchs Forest Anglican Church

July 23, 2021
Today we set up a small Community Pantry with essentials, to help out during lockdown. Especially for the many of you who have had to go into 14 days isolation. 

We've got the basics: milk, bread, fruit, butter, soup, baked beans...etc.   And some toilet paper too. 

If you need something delivered, there are others from church willing to help.  Of course, if you know of neighbours in need, please let us know that so we can help there too.

Everything is undercover, milk and butter are in the fridge. You could even drive though if you wanted.  Just make sure you wait till the person in front of you is finished, so we keep safe by keeping our distance. 

Let's do our best to keep caring for one another and those around us at this time.

Blessings from the crew at Frenchs Forest Anglican

PH: 9975 5410

Pets Of The Week

Parker


AGE/SEX: 3 years / M
BREED: Staffy X Lab

Parker is a very sweet affectionate dog. He loves cuddles and walks on loose lead. He is calm around other dogs and people. Walker says: "He sits and gives you his paw on command. A pleasure to walk". Parker has epilepsy and it is controlled by medication. He has a short coat and weighs 37.5kg. He comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. His adoption cost is $400. 
 Please call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 if you are interested in meeting him.

Mr Berry


Mr Berry is a sweet relaxed boy who is affectionate and easy to handle. He is about 6yo. He came in with 3 broken canines and abscess. He has had a dental and abscess has healed. He has a medium coat and weighs 3.9kg.
He is located at Ingleside and comes desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV tested and microchipped. His adoption fee is $220. 
Please call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 if you are interested in meeting him or email  cats@doggierescue.com

Foster Carers Needed
Not everyone is in a position to adopt a dog, which is why DoggieRescue runs a foster program making it easy for caring dog lovers to make an immediate difference.

Meet our top ten doggies desperate for a foster home. These are most frequently doggies who have spent a long time in the shelter and are in urgent need of some quiet time in a loving home.

For further details or to meet all cats, rabbits and dogs at Doggie Rescue call 9486 3133 or email monika@DoggieRescue.com. Visit www.DoggieRescue.com to see all our dogs. www.facebook.com/doggierescue 
Rehoming Organisation No R251000024. 

$495,000 For Dredging At The Entrance

August 6 2021
Central Coast Council has been awarded $495,000 in NSW Government funding to dredge The Entrance channel.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said a long-term dredging strategy is required to address the natural shoaling of sand, which causes The Entrance channel to intermittently close.

“Dredging is needed to maintain tidal flows between Tuggerah Lake and the ocean, and to reduce the flood risk in low-lying areas around the Lake’s perimeter,” Mr Crouch said.

“I have made sure that all of the relevant authorities including Council, the EPA, the Maritime Infrastructure Delivery Office, Crown Lands and the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment proactively communicate and work together so that this dredging can happen.

“Our community expects and deserves dredging to be a priority at The Entrance and that is why the NSW Government is providing $495,000 for Council to get it done.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said he was pleased that grant funding had been confirmed for next year’s dredging program.

“The Entrance channel is a dynamic coastal environment with Council and consultant Manly Hydraulics Laboratory currently part way through developing an interim entrance management strategy for Tuggerah Lakes,” Mr Hart said.

“This funding will support the preparation of a dredging strategy and a small scale dredging program of the channel and sand berm area during 2022.”

Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance said Councils are responsible for delivering and managing their projects, which includes obtaining necessary approvals.

“All projects funded under the NSW Government’s Boating Access Dredging Program must be completed within 18 months of securing funding,” Mr Constance said.

Katoa Close Parking Problems: Council Looking For Solutions

Residents of Narrabeen report they have received a proposal from Council to try and address community concerns regarding the parking of trailers in the parking spaces leaving insufficient space for those who wish to access the reserve or for visitors to the street.

Council is proposing an 8P timed parking restriction from applying from 8am to 6pm every day on the reserve side of the street and invites feedback by August 13th, 2021.

Written submissions can be sent to PO Box 82, Manly, 1655 or emailed to Council@northernbeaches.gov.au.

Once the feedback has been reviewed by the Northern Beaches Council Traffic Committee will look into the matter and a decision will be available on council's website one week afterwards.

A concept plan was enclosed:


Discussion Paper To Encourage Views On Proposed Planning Controls

Northern Beaches Council is required by the NSW Government to consolidate four planning control documents into one and will release a discussion paper to collect community views.

Mayor Michael Regan said the preparation of a whole of Northern Beaches Local Environment Plan (LEP) and Development Control Plan (DCP) would be based largely on existing controls and was not seeking to increase heights in residential areas or increase densities in areas that have not already been identified.

He said the NSW Government requirement to review the documents provides an opportunity to introduce greater protection for our environment, raise the bar on sustainability and encourage local employment.

“To be crystal clear, there are no plans for increasing densities beyond what has already been identified – our housing strategy made clear we only need to find an additional 275 dwellings,” Mayor Regan said.

“No one wants to see our area overdeveloped or the local character destroyed.

“Our aim is to ensure we maintain our great lifestyle, protect the local character and environment we so value, provide green space, infrastructure to support growth, and local employment for the future.”

He encouraged members of the community to have their say during the six-week exhibition to inform the development of the draft LEP and DCP which will come back to the community for further consultation next year.

“Since amalgamation in 2016, the Northern Beaches has still been operating under four different planning instruments each with different planning controls,” Cr Regan said.

“We have an opportunity to use the government’s requirement to now consider ways to strengthen the protections for our environment, constrain development in inappropriate locations, incentivise affordable housing and support local job growth.

“The discussion paper considers these kinds of opportunities and asks the community for their ideas and input.”

To support local business and to provide an improved retail shopping experience and greater flexibility in the use of the space, Council’s Urban Design expert panel have suggested small height increases in business centres – no more than 1.5 metres.

And to meet the demand for floor space in industrial zones the community is asked to comment on a small increase of building heights in industrial areas.

“Our business centres and industrial areas are the employment heart of the Northern Beaches, providing an opportunity for residents to live locally and work locally.

“We are ruling out large height increases but asking the community for feedback on measures that could help rejuvenate industrial areas and support local jobs.”

Among other things, the discussion paper also asks for community response to:
  • improved controls for development near waterways, foreshores, wetlands and riparian lands;
  • more water sensitive urban design and greater tree canopy;
  • performance standards for net-zero carbon emission buildings;
  • reducing areas for permitted dual occupancy, boarding houses and seniors’ housing to reduce inappropriate development in sensitive locations;
  • provisions to restrict large scale retail in small retail centres.
Mayor Regan said the LEP and DCP is required to align with the State Government’s Greater Sydney Region Plan and North District Plan.

“This is the start of the process of creating a vision for a sustainable future for a great place to live, work and play,” he said.

NB: the Draft LEP and DCP is now available. Council documents/projects on display for feedback are stored HERE - Feedback closes September 5th, 2021

Help Shape The Future Of Animal Welfare Laws In NSW

August 3, 2021
Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall has today released the NSW Animal Welfare Reform – Discussion Paper as the next step in the NSW Government’s commitment to modernise animal welfare legislation.

Mr Marshall said while the care of animals was a universal value, it was critical the state’s laws provide the right legal framework to protect all animals.

“I am calling on all members of the community to help shape the future of animal welfare in NSW,” Mr Marshall said.

“Expectations and animal welfare science have changed drastically in the 40 years since our existing laws were written. With the community’s help, three pieces of legislation will be replaced with one modern Act.

“The NSW Animal Welfare Reform – Discussion Paper outlines a series of proposals about the future of animal welfare legislation and it’s important all stakeholders, from farmers to mum and dad pet owners, have the opportunity to provide us their feedback.

“We now have Australia’s toughest set of animal cruelty penalties, but it is vital our legislation is in line with the best available science and community expectations.”

The feedback on the discussion paper will support legislation development to create an animal management framework that is easier to understand, closes loopholes and reflects new best-practice since the original legislation was developed 40 years ago.

This will be the second round of consultation on animal welfare reform and Mr Marshall said significant feedback had already been gathered.

“More than 1,100 stakeholders including key representative bodies and experts had their say in the first round of consultation and this has been used to develop a series of proposals outlined in the NSW Animal Welfare Reform – Discussion Paper,” Mr Marshall said.

Proposals in the Discussion Paper include:
  • Setting a minimum care requirement for those responsible for animals;
  • Clarifying what constitutes cruelty and who is responsible for the care of an animal;
  • Introducing a modern penalties framework with increased penalty amounts and new and enhanced offences; and
  • Providing updated powers and tools to protect animals.
If you would like to have your say, email your submission to animalwelfare.submissions@dpi.nsw.gov.au or visit the NSW Department of Primary Industries website.

Consultation is open until Friday, 3 September 2021.

Sydney Wildlife Recycled Bottles For Wildlife 2021

Sydney Wildlife Rescue is registered for return and earn in NSW. This time it is accessed by an App called My Tomra  - which is the organisation that runs the recycling. 

Once you have downloaded the My Tomra App. Just search “Our Wildlife” you will see Sydney Wildlife Rescue listed. You can set that as the payout. 

So you just scan the bar code from the App  at the recycling machine and the 10c will be donated to Sydney Wildlife Rescue. The machines can be located anywhere in NSW.  

Please have a look it’s a good way to support us to care for wildlife and do your bit to keep Australia Beautiful.

 

Click on logo above to visit their website.

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.

Domestic Violence Support 

NB: Where to get help Fact Sheet is below. Simply click on PDF and 'save as' on your own device

People experiencing domestic violence can be assured police and frontline services are ready to support them and their families.

Member for Manly James Griffin said the Northern Beaches community should not hesitate to seek help and support at this time. 

“If you are in danger or in an emergency call Triple Zero (000),” Mr Griffin said. “If you are in need of support services, such as housing or counselling, our hard working frontline staff are also available to help those suffering domestic violence.”  

“No person, whether they live on the Northern Beaches or anywhere in Australia, should in live in fear of violence and I urge people to seek the help they need when it is safe to do so.”

Mr Griffin added that perpetrators are on notice and that police have increased efforts to combat violence in the home including more proactive operations to enforce protection orders.  
“Police will continue to conduct Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) compliance checks to keep victims safe.”

NSW Police Force Domestic Violence Corporate Spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Mark Jones, said police are monitoring rates of domestic violence. 

“High-risk and repeat offenders are being targeted by specially trained police to ensure that all orders are strictly followed and complied with and offenders are arrested if violence is detected,” Assistant Commissioner Jones said.  “Police are also able to vary existing interim or final ADVOs if we know that violence is escalating, without needing to first go to court, so victims are immediately protected.
Where to get help - March 2020.pdf

Where to get help - March 2020.pdf
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Speed Humps On McCarrs Creek Rd: Please Share Wildlife Data 

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

It records the GPS position, date, sex, species. Photos can be added as they help in identification
The data is then forwarded to OEH and Transport NSW as it can help establish the best places to place  mitigation. Thanking you all in advance for your help with this.

We need your help. Thank you for reporting wildlife road fatalities. There is so much wildlife on the move in our area at present due to various pressures. Although we have had pictures sent to us, many of these have no date or location.

There is a database that volunteers maintain but this needs three pieces of information:
  1. The position via GPS or road and suburb
  2. The date
  3. The animal
The details can be entered into the database directly by you at:

DV: Leave

Domestic Violence NSW
If you are experiencing domestic violence, current COVID-19 restrictions do not apply - you can leave your local area to get somewhere safe. Call the DV Line for help.

NB: Where to get help Fact Sheet is at base of this page. Simply click on PDF and 'save as' on your own device

People experiencing domestic violence can be assured police and frontline services are ready to support them and their families.

Census 2021

Census night is on Tuesday 10 August 2021.

In late July, paper forms will be delivered to households in some rural and regional areas. By early August, households will receive instructions on how to take part.

This year you can complete your Census as soon as you receive your instructions, if you know who will be home on Census night. This is different to past years when you had to fill in your form on Census night.

You can fill in your form online, on paper or with help from us.

Census staff will be working in remote communities. They can do face to face interviews with people living there between July and August 2021.

ABS staff will contact you by letter if you have not submitted your form by Thursday August 12th 2021.

Sydney Surf Pro Secures Dates For 2022 WSL Challenger Series

August 5th, 2021
The World Surf League is excited to announce it will be returning to Sydney’s Northern Beaches in 2022 with the Sydney Surf Pro Challenger Series event which will run at the iconic Manly Beach from May 17- 24. 

The eight-day event will see 160 of the world’s best surfers battle it out at Manly Beach as they look to secure their spot on the 2023 Championship Tour (CT). 

“We can’t wait to return to Sydney in 2022,” said WSL APAC General Manager Andrew Stark. “After an incredible one-off CT event at North Narrabeen this year and a strong debut Challenger Series event at Manly in 2020, to get back and continue our tradition at Manly is really exciting. Having one of only eight of the Challenger Series events globally at Manly is a testament to the importance of this place in the world of competitive surfing.”

The Sydney Surf Pro is supported by the NSW Government through Destination NSW. 

The second of three competitive tiers for the world’s best surfers, the 2022 WSL Challenger Series will feature 96-man and 64-woman fields, drawn from the seven WSL Regional Qualifying Series around the world. Challenger Series surfers will compete for a chance to advance to the elite WSL CT in 2023, with surfers counting their best five of eight results on the Challenger Series in hopes of finishing in the Top 10 men’s and Top 5 women’s spots by the end of the season.

The 2022 WSL Challenger Series will consist of eight events, beginning at Snapper Rocks on Australia’s Gold Coast, Australia from May 7 – 15 and concluding in Haleiwa, Hawai’i from November 26 – December 7.

The 2022 WSL Challenger Series Schedule*:

Gold Coast, Australia – May 7 – 15, 2022
Manly, Australia – May 17 – 24, 2022
Ballito, South Africa – July 20 – 27, 2022
Huntington Beach, USA – July 30 – August 7, 2022
Ericeira, Portugal – October 1 – 9, 2022
Landes, France – October 15 – 23, 2022
Piha, New Zealand – November 5 – 13, 2022
Haleiwa, Hawai’i – November 26 – December 7, 2022

NSW Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said: “The Sydney Surf Pro celebrates the features of our city and lifestyle that make Sydney an unforgettable destination to visit, and we’re looking forward to welcoming thousands of athletes, officials, and supporters to enjoy Manly next May.”

Member for Manly James Griffin said: “Manly has a long, proud history as an Australian surf capital for board riders of all abilities, from amateurs riding their first waves at local surf schools to the world’s best, who have been competing here since the first world championship in 1964.”

“We are thrilled to partner with the WSL and welcome the Surf Pro back to Manly next year,” said Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan. “The event is great for our local economy, gives our community a chance to see some of the best surfers in the world and our local surfers get to surf at home.”

COVID-19 Protocols
*All tour stops and dates are subject to change due to applicable COVID-19 related restrictions, including global travel restrictions. The health and safety of athletes, staff, and the local community are of the utmost importance and the WSL has a robust set of procedures in place to keep everyone safe. These plans are unique to each Tour stop.

Visit worldsurfleague.com/2022 for more information.

Photo: (L - R) NSW Minister for Tourism Stuart Ayres, Northern Beaches CS competitor Holly Wawn, WSL's Will Hayden-Smith, Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan, Surfing NSW CEO Luke Madden, Reigning Sydney Surf Pro winner Jordy Lawler and Member for Manly James Griffin prior to the 2020 Sydney Surf Pro. Photo: Ethan Smith/Surfing NSW.

2021 Australian IRB Championships Cancelled Due To COVID-19 Restrictions 

August 3, 2021
After closely monitoring the continuing COVID-19 situation across the country, Surf Life Saving Australia has today decided to cancel the 2021 Australian IRB Championships that were rescheduled to be held on September 9-12, at Fingal Bay, NSW. 

Due to the extended COVID-19 lockdown across NSW and border closures in place across multiple states and territories, SLSA has had to make the difficult decision to cancel the Australian IRB Championships for 2021. 

Surf Life Saving Australia National Sport Manager Wayne Druery said that due to the current circumstances it is currently unfeasible to be able to run the national championships or to again reschedule to a later date.  

“SLSA have explored a number of options to be able to run the Australian IRB Championship however after careful consideration all options were deemed unfeasible due to the current lockdowns and border closures in place across the country,” Druery said. 

“SLSA is working with states and territories to ensure that we can run as many events as possible subject of course to COVID-19 restrictions. 

“While there are no changes to any other events at this stage, we are exploring a range of potential contingencies across all of our events.”  

Surf Life Saving Australia will continue to monitor the continuing COVID-19 situation in consideration of the 2021 Coolangatta Gold and the 2021 Pool Rescue Championships, both scheduled to take place in October on 16-17 and 29-31, respectively on the Gold Coast, Queensland.   

At this stage there are no changes to these two events, but should circumstances require any change or adjustment, it will be communicated accordingly.  

For more information and national event updates please click here.   


Avalon Beach SLSC's Pete Carter. Photo: A J Guesdon.

Off To Canada To Fight Fires

Warringah / Pittwater Headquarters Rural Fire Headquarters Brigade would like to wish all the best to our very own NSW Rural Fire Service members, Captain Luke Robinson and Inspector Rolf Poole along with Captain Chelsea Varga from Coal & Candle Rural Fire Brigade. They are heading off to Canada later today (July 27, 2021)  as part of a combined NSW and WA response to a formal request from Canada to the National Resource Sharing Centre.

Significant fire activity is being experienced as a result of record temperatures and protracted heatwaves, resulting in hundreds of fires burning across the country. 




During the 2019/20 Bush Fires in NSW, firefighters from across North America including Canada headed down under to assist us during our time of need. 
All the best and stay safe all.

Review Of General Manager Remuneration – Consultation Paper

A consultation paper has been issued to seek the views of the local government sector and other stakeholders and the broader community.

Currently, councils are free to determine the remuneration they pay to their general managers and senior staff based on a range of considerations including the skills and experience applicants bring to the role, the size and operational complexity of the council, market conditions and industry benchmarks. Councils are required to publicly report on the remuneration they pay to their general managers and senior staff in their annual reports.

The consultation paper examines how executive remuneration is set in other jurisdictions and at other levels of government. It considers a range of options from maintaining the status quo through to introducing greater regulation of the remuneration councils may pay to their general managers and senior staff.


Send your written submission to:
Post:   Locked Bag 3015, NOWRA NSW 2541

Submissions should be labelled ‘Review of General Manager and Senior Staff Remuneration’ and marked to the attention of OLG’s Council Governance Team.

Submissions should be made by COB 9 August 2021.

For more information, please contact the OLG Council Governance Team on (02) 4428 4100 or via email at olg@olg.nsw.gov.au.

SLSA Urges The Public: “Lifejackets Save Lives” 

August 6, 2021
Surf Life Saving Australia is calling on the public to stay safe by taking more safety precautions and wearing a lifejacket on and around the water as fatalities continue to occur while boating, rock fishing or using personal watercraft on our coast. 

The recently released SLSA Coastal Safety Brief on Lifejackets has painted a grim picture on the number of coastal fatalities and drowning deaths that have occurred on the Australian coastline, an overwhelming majority of which were not wearing a lifejacket at the time of death. 

Boating, personal watercraft (PWC), rock fishing and non-powered watercraft (e.g. kayak, canoes, SUP) are popular coastal activities that recommend the use of lifejackets and since July 2004 there has been a total of 980 deaths recorded, 70% of which were not wearing a lifejacket. This number is potentially much higher with lifejacket status remaining unknown for 20% of incidents.  

Boating continues to record the highest numbers of coastal fatalities for these activities with a total of 671 deaths recorded since 2004 (390 were due to drowning). A lifejacket was not worn in 71% of these coastal fatalities. 

SLSA General Manager Coastal Safety, Shane Daw ESM said that, as the name implies, lifejackets are so important to keep you and your loved ones safe in, on or around the water.  

“Lifejackets are called that for a reason; they can save your life,” said Daw. 

“We continue to see an overwhelming number of deaths each year in activities like boating, rock fishing and personal watercraft, when lifejackets aren’t worn. 

“No one intends to get into trouble while they’re out on the water, but time and time again we see people who fall, slip, are washed off rocks, have an accident, have a medical incident or get into some type of trouble and were not wearing a lifejacket; with research showing that in many cases the result is fatal.” 

Daw said that the same logic that applies to seatbelts, should be applied to wearing a lifejacket while in, on or around the water when boating, fishing or using watercraft. 

“We all wear seatbelts, because we know that in the event that we have an accident, which in their nature are always unpredictable, we know that we have a much better chance of keeping ourselves safe and saving our lives – Why then don’t we apply this logic to wearing lifejackets?” Daw said. 

“Some of the biggest barriers to people not wearing a lifejacket include overestimating  ability and underestimating the unpredictability of the ocean, thinking it will never happen to me and some simply think they look unfashionable. Many are also unaware or unsure of the legislation around the use of lifejackets for a range of activities. 

“In a lot of boating scenarios lifejackets are on board, or are being carried, but are not worn and when something unpredictable happens, there is no time to put it on. You need to wear a lifejacket to actually protect or save yourself and your loved ones.”  

For more information on the statistics related to coastal fatalities, drowning and the importance of wearing a lifejacket to minimise these deaths, please see the SLSA Coastal Safety Brief on Lifejackets – Click here. 

  • There have been 980 coastal deaths due to boating, rock fishing, non-powered and personal watercraft activities – 70% of which were not wearing a lifejacket 
  • On average each year there are 61 deaths – 41 of these are due to drowning 
  • Of the 41 annual drowning deaths, 69% were not wearing a lifejacket 
  • Men are grossly overrepresented in the data accounting for 895 deaths since recording began in July 2004 – this is over 91% 
  • 25-39 year-olds and 60-74 year-olds are the two biggest at risk demographics recording 216 deaths and 259 deaths respectively since July 2004 
  • Boating deaths account for the majority of coastal fatalities with 671 deaths – in 71% of these incidents a lifejacket wasn’t worn 
  • Rock fishing, while accounting for fewer deaths than boating (206 deaths – 199 due to drowning), it has the highest percentage (80%) of coastal deaths that were not wearing a lifejacket 
Safety tips: 
  • Never underestimate the unpredictability of the ocean 
  • Check weather and ocean conditions before heading out boating, rock fishing or on water craft 
  • Don’t just carry a lifejacket, ensure you and those around you are all wearing one 
  • Ensure you know the legislation in your state relating to when lifejackets are mandated and recommended. Put one on anyway, it could save your life 
  • Know your limits 
  • STOP, LOOK, PLAN 

Bangalley/St Michael's Cave Rock Platform, June 17, 2021 - 4 rock fishers, 1 lifejacket. Photo: A J Guesdon 

Virtual Zoo Lessons Available

The great people of Taronga Zoo are offering Virtual Zoo Lockdown Lessons streamed straight to your living room for FREE to help those teaching at home at present. Connect virtually with some of Taronga’s amazing animals with digital lessons led by a qualified member of our teaching staff that allows your students to be engaged by getting up close (digitally) to our fascinating animals via video link.

Virtual Zoo Lockdown Lessons will be running four times a week across Tuesdays and Fridays, with two virtual lessons per day.

In these engaging sessions, Taronga Educators will delve into a variety of animals, their habitats, needs, the challenges they face for survival and the amazing adaptations they possess.

These virtual sessions will be hosted via the Taronga Website, via Vimeo Livestream. No download is required, the livestream can be watched on a Taronga webpage link that you will be emailed after registering. Vimeo Livestream will allow multiple devices to be active at one time.

To register for these, please visit:

NSW Sustainability Awards Now Open For Entry

August 6, 2021
The NSW Sustainability Awards are now open and accepting entries from eligible NSW participants across a range of categories from biodiversity to net zero initiatives.

Energy and Environment Minister Matt Kean said the awards will allow New South Wales to showcase some of our best and brightest minds on a national stage with winners automatically entered into the prestigious Banksia National Sustainability Awards.

"New South Wales leads the country when it comes to generating ideas on sustainability, these awards will not only showcase those ideas but also celebrate the people that are making our world better," Mr Kean said.

"Entrants for these awards will join a community of sustainability champions who are reimagining the future of New South Wales and the world."

Inspired by the United Nations 2030 Global Goals and NSW's commitment to reaching net zero by 2050, these awards will salute individuals, communities and businesses for their innovation and excellence in environmental and social leadership.

The 8 awards categories include:
  • NSW Net Zero Action Award
  • NSW Biodiversity Award
  • NSW Circular Transition Award
  • NSW Clean Technology Award
  • NSW Large Business Transformation Award
  • NSW Small to Medium Business Award
  • NSW Youth as our Changemakers Award
  • Minister's Young Climate Champion Award
The awards will be presented and run by the Banksia Foundation in partnership with the NSW Government. Entries for the awards are expected to close on September 15 with winners announced by the end of this year. The winners of the National Banksia awards will be announced in March 2022.

For more information or for registration of interest for the awards can be made at NSW Sustainability Awards.

Awards
  1. NSW Clean Technology Award: Recognises outstanding initiatives by an organisation or organisations in collaboration that show- case efficient resources through renewable energy, low emissions technology, and appreciable pollution reduction (beyond compliance) of Australia's water, air, and land.
  2. NSW Biodiversity Award: Recognises outstanding initiatives by an organisation or organisations in collaboration that protect our habitat, flora and/or fauna to ensure Australia's ecosystems are secured and flourish for future generations.
  3. NSW Circular Transition Award: Recognises outstanding achievements in innovative design in waste and pollution systems and products, through to regenerating strategies. The award will go to a company that has adopted a technology, initiative or project that is helping the business move from a linear to a circular model.
  4. NSW Large Business Transformation Award: Recognises outstanding achievements that demonstrate business and values alignment with multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals and by integrating sustainability principles and practices across business activities.
  5. NSW Youth as our Changemakers Award: Recognises young innovators aged between 18-35 years, who bring fresh perspectives, bold ideas and compelling initiatives that align with any or the multiple UN SDG's.
  6. NSW Net Zero Action Award: Recognises organisations, (company, business association, NGOs) that can demonstrate a tangible program or initiative that evidences transition toward a 1.5-Degree goal, through a publicly communicated net zero commitment, plus data, disclosures and investments to support it.
  7. NSW Small to Medium Business Award: Recognises outstanding achievements that demonstrate business and values alignment with multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals and by integrating sustainability principles and practices across business activities.
  8. Minister's Young Climate Champion Award: The Minister's Young Climate Champion Award recognises young innovators aged under 18 years who bring bold ideas for a safe and thriving climate future that align with any of the UN SDGs. Young and passionate minds who have taken outstanding actions that benefit the sustainability of their communities and help address climate change will be showcased in this award, which is a celebration of young people with drive, commitment and a passion for sustainability and the environment.

Updated Noise Guide For Local Government Open For Comment

August 2, 2021
The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has drafted an updated Noise Guide for Local Government for public consultation until 27 September 2021.

The Noise Guide for Local Government provides practical guidance to council officers on the day-to-day management of common neighbourhood noise problems and in the interpretation of existing policy and legislation.   

EPA Director Environmental Solutions Sonya Errington said the Guide assists councils to assess and apply the regulations to noise issues in the way that best suits their local government area.

“This new Guide gives clear advice on the regulatory and non-regulatory approaches to managing noise and community expectations,” Ms Errington said.

“The Guide assists council officers in managing neighbour-to-neighbour problems and those noise issues resulting from commercial or industrial premises.

“It also assists planners by including planning considerations that can prevent future noise problems, such as land-use planning to avoid or minimise noise from land-use conflict. Noise-generating activities and noise-sensitive areas should be separated where practicable. For example, situating commercial buildings, recreation space or similar between incompatible land uses provides a physical barrier and/or spatial separation,” Ms Errington added.

The key changes in the draft Noise Guide for Local Government include:
  • improved and easier to navigate three-part structure;
  • updated fact sheets for various common noise sources and summaries of which is the right regulatory authority;
  • up-to-date worked examples for common neighbourhood noise issues; and
  • consolidated and simplified technical and supporting information for council officers.
Once finalised, the Noise Guide for Local Government will replace the current Guide that was first published in 2013.

Have your say
Council staff and members of the community can:

Planning Proposal For Bowling Green Lane Avalon Beach

A Planning Proposal is an application to change legislation such as zoning or development controls that apply to land.

The first step in the process is a preliminary review and public notification in line with Council's Community Participation Plan.

Planning proposals must include an assessment of whether they give effect to the strategic direction set out in Towards 2040 - Local Strategic Planning Statement including all priorities and principles.

Planning proposals currently open include one for Bowling Green Lane in Avalon Beach - with feedback closing August 29 2021.

This is a Planning Proposal - rezone Green 3 of the Avalon Beach Bowling Club from R2 Low Density Residential to RE1 Public Recreation under the Pittwater Local Environmental Plan 2014.

Documents may be viewed and Feedback can be made at PEX2020/0002

ADF Training In New South Wales From July To December 2021

NB: for those hearing aircraft/helicopters late a night and 2-3am- many thanks to Cr. De Luca for finding out what's going on

Australian Defence Force personnel will conduct maritime counter-terrorism training in Sydney Harbour and New South Wales coastal waters from the Central Coast to Jervis Bay from July to December 2021. 

The training will be conducted during the day and night. 

The public should not be alarmed if they see or hear military watercraft, vehicles, unmanned aerial surveillance systems and military personnel carrying weapons. 

Blank and paint ammunition will be used during some aspects of the training.

People who see the training should not be concerned that any of the locations are under any form of actual threat.

This essential training is vital to maintain Australia’s world-class military capability. It is not a part of the Australian Government’s COVID-19 response. The training is being conducted in a manner that accounts for COVID-19 restrictions and good health management processes.

Defence is unable to provide media access or further information, including specific timings, regarding this training in order to protect operational tactics, techniques and procedures.

VIVID Sydney 2021 Cancelled: Planning Underway For 2022

Friday August 6, 2021
The NSW Government has made the difficult decision to cancel Vivid Sydney 2021 – but the world’s largest festival of light, music and ideas will shine brightly again in May-June 2022.

Given the ongoing uncertainty, the decision has been made to cancel Vivid Sydney 2021 to minimise the impact on event attendees, partners, artists, sponsors and suppliers.

Planning is now underway for next year, with Vivid Sydney to return from 27 May to 18 June 2022.
Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said Vivid Sydney would be a shining light for the community to look forward to next year.

“As we work together to contain the current outbreak and get our community vaccinated, we can all look forward to the return of major events like Vivid Sydney that bring us together in celebration,” Mr Ayres said.

“Vivid Sydney 2022 will shine brighter than ever – our artists and creative industries are so eager to put on a show and we can’t wait to see the Harbour City shining brightly again.

“We thank everyone who has contributed to the planning for Vivid Sydney 2021. Of course, it’s incredibly disappointing to cancel for the second year but the most responsible decision was to cancel early, giving everyone certainty and minimising impacts where possible.

“The health and safety of our community is our highest priority, which is why we’re encouraging everyone to get vaccinated so we can get back to enjoying COVID-safe events again soon.”

Expressions of interest for Vivid Sydney 2022 Light, Music and Ideas programs will open next week.
To submit and expression of interest for next year’s event, go to www.vividsydney.com

Image: Vivid Sydney 2018 - Credit: Destination NSW 

New Policy To Drive Housing Choice And Supply

More diverse housing is on the way for NSW , with a new planning policy making it mandatory that boarding houses are affordable while introducing co-living as a new housing option.

The proposed Housing State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) will be the first principle-led, consolidated  Housing SEPP, and  is now  on exhibition for public comment.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the housing  options  offer new housing types and tenures to accommodate Sydney’s growing population.

“As our population grows and changes, so do our housing needs. Traditional housing arrangements are just not suitable for many, especially those on low incomes,” Mr Stokes said.

“The proposed SEPP has been developed following extensive consultation and we’re giving everyone a final chance to have their say to ensure we get it right.

“The changes streamline planning pathways in support of local strategic planning, so we get the right mix of housing types in the right locations.

“It is  part  of  our  wider  efforts  to  boost  housing  supply,  which  include progressing rezonings in key growth areas, particularly Greater Sydney, and establishing the Regional Housing Taskforce to identify roadblocks to housing supply  in regional NSW.”

The Housing SEPP also proposes that boarding houses would only be permitted  in  low density residential areas if councils allow it, while providing clarity around where seniors living is permitted.

The draft Housing SEPP contains new and updated provisions, including:
  • Boarding Houses – rooms will need to be rented at an affordable rate and managed by a registered community housing provider;
  • Co-living housing – housing designed for community living, with private spaces connected to community facilities, and includes student housing; and
  • Seniors Housing – setting out zones where seniors housing will be permissible to provide more certainty for councils and the community, and to encourage development in accessible locations.
For more information and to provide your feedback visit planning.nsw.gov.au/housing-sepp

Have your say
You can view the Housing SEPP consultation draft and supporting documents on the Planning Portal.
We encourage you to have your say and submit feedback on the Housing SEPP consultation draft via the NSW Planning Portal by 29 August 2021.

Calling All Artists!

We are inviting artists to submit artworks for our 2021 inaugural Rotary Art Exhibition and Auction to help raise funds for some very worthy charities, making a difference in our local and global community. 
For more information, please contact artshow@rotaryuppernorthernbeaches.org or Liz 0412 007 068 or Gill 0409 783 295.

This is a great example of how Rotary supports the community.  Even during lockdown, we continue to have productive meetings via zoom. We continue to make a difference and we enjoy each other’s company. We also have some great speakers lined up over the coming weeks. 

To find out more about Rotary and/or attend one of our meetings, please call Tony Butera on 0418 280 849.

Kimbriki: Essential Services Only

In line with current NSW Health Orders, and lockdown restrictions, Kimbriki is open for Essential Services ONLY.

The government advice is that residential customers wanting to drop household waste and recyclables to Kimbriki are NOT classified as “Essential” and we ask that any non-essential customers please delay visiting Kimbriki until the lockdown restrictions are lifted.

Please be aware that you risk incurring significant fines if your visit to Kimbriki is not essential in accordance with this list.

To view the current stay-at-home rules in place for greater Sydney please go to http://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/rules/greater-sydney

If you do need to make a trip to Kimbriki, and you meet one of the identified essential criteria, please be aware the following site changes and requirements in place:
  • Kimbriki is open seven days a week from 7am – 5pm for essential services only.
  • You MUST wear a mask at all times while onsite.
  • You MUST practice social distancing at all times.
  • You MUST not approach staff.
  • YOU MUST check in using the QR codes provided, or manual sign-in forms if you do not have a phone.
To view the full list of COVID related changes on-site at Kimbriki please go to www.kimbriki.com.

Please Dispose Of Single Use Masks At Home

On a short walk yesterday three masks were picked up of the ground within 10 metres. Same thing the day before. These probably dropped out of a pocket or something alike that after use  - but, these can impact on wildlife and cause death.

Let's look after our wildlife as well as each other during this latest challenge. 
Please be careful and ensure you take yours home so we don't see this:


Avalon Beach 100th Celebrations

Roger Treagus called an open meeting of interested community members on 10/6/21 hosted by Av Bowlo and assisted by Councillor McTaggart, to canvass ideas for the community to celebrate this event.

Some Ideas so far include asking the community to provide historical film/photos of living here to process into a movie for local screening, Tree Planting, Bands, Celebrating indigenous culture, A Guinness book event and more.
They will post updates to Avalon What’s On Facebook page.

Meanwhile Roger is keen to hear from anyone with film/pics to lend, celebration ideas or to volunteer help or resources.

A Facebook webpage has been set up to share information at www.facebook.com/Avalon-Beach-100

Contact:- Roger Treagus Convenor- Avalon Beach 100 Committee via email:-  rtreagus@optusnet.com.au

Aspiring Writers Mentorship Program

Are you a budding writer?
Do you have a manuscript ready and would love to be published?
The Children's Book Council of Australia (CBCA) NSW Branch is pleased to announce that the Aspiring Writers Mentorship Program is being re-launched in 2021 with sponsorship by Cathie Tasker who will mentor the winner.  Fremantle Press will provide 2 runners-up with access to their online writing course plus the text How to be an author by Georgia Richter & Deborah Hunn.

The Aspiring Writers Mentorship Program aims to foster the talent of aspiring writers of children's literature across Australia and is open to all Australian citizens residing in Australia.

For the entry details and terms and conditions and to submit your entry by August 31, 2021 visit: https://www.cbcansw.org.au/aspiring-writers-mentorship-program

August 1 - 7, 2021: Issue 504

This Issue:  


Environment Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment August Newsletter, Forum & 2021 AGM, Pittwater Natural Heritage Association (PNHA) Newsletter No: 88, Discussion Paper To Encourage Views On Proposed Planning Controls, Echidna Breeding Season Commences, Reinstate The Marine Reserve From Rock Pool “Kiddies Corner” South Palm Beach: Petition, Repeat Offender Banned From Fishing For 5 Years, Fisheries Officers Crack Down On Illegal Fishing During Lockdown, New Expert Analysis Reveals NSW IPC Has “Comprehensively Failed” To Mitigate Greenhouse Emissions, NSW Government Introduces New Mining Rehabilitation Rules, Reckless Plans For Kosciuszko National Park Must Be Stopped, Drone Technology Keeping A Watchful Eye On Whales This Migration Season, Dead shrivelled frogs are unexpectedly turning up across eastern Australia; We need your help to find out why, You may have heard the ‘moon wobble’ will intensify coastal floods; here’s what that means for Australia, Climate change is causing tuna to migrate which could spell catastrophe for the small islands that depend on them, Artificial refuges are a popular stopgap for habitat destruction but the science isn’t up to scratch, Pest plants and animals cost Australia around $25 billion a year – and it will get worse, More livestock more carbon dioxide less ice: the world’s climate change progress since 2019 is (mostly) bad news, A wet winter, a soggy spring: what is the negative Indian Ocean Dipole, and why is it so important?, Bushcare In Pittwater: when and where, Community Gardens, Groups, Organisations + Reserves 

Inbox News Australia shouldn’t ‘open up’ before we vaccinate at least 80% of the population. Here’s why; new Grattan study, Chronic Pain Might Impact How The Brain Processes Emotions, Australian Bushfires; Not Pandemic Lockdowns, Had Biggest Impact On Global Climate In 2020, Excess Coffee: A Bitter Brew For Brain Health, A Naturally Inspired Reusable System That Purifies Water And Builds Itself, Cultural Biases Impact Native Fish, Pedestrians Should Get The Green Light On Traffic Signal Prioritisation, Public protest or selfish ratbaggery?; Why free speech doesn’t give you the right to endanger other people’s health, A wet winter, a soggy spring: what is the negative Indian Ocean Dipole and why is it so important?

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: August 1st, 2021

Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Vale Bert Brownlie
November 11, 1925 - July 30, 2021

It is our sad duty to inform this community on the passing of Pittwater RSL Sub Branch member and long-term Warriewood resident Bert Brownlie.

Our sincere condolences to his wife Dawn, daughter Kim and extended family members.

During WWII Bert volunteered for the RAAF because he wanted to be a pilot, but, education wise, it couldn’t be done, so he was trained as a Flight Mechanic. 

''I was based at two fields, at Deniliquin, at 7 S.F.T.S. (Service Flying Training School), where we learned to work on all sorts of aircraft there, and then I was posted to Tocumwal NSW. My air mechanic training occurred in Adelaide and Melbourne and covered Aircraft systems, engines, air screws and parachutes. At Tocumwal I was part of the 7 O.T.U. (Operational Training Unit), where we worked on the Liberation bombers, the B-24’s.''

After the war Bert met the girl of his dreams, Dawn, and they settled at Warriewood. 

For Bert's 2020 Profile he recalled;

''It was a lovely place when we first came here but now they have old age homes everywhere and all these townhouses all over the place like you wouldn’t believe. The swampland used to have lots of ducks and other wild birds there – there was cattle and horses over the road from us. There was a riding school right near the main road, little kids used to stay there for the weekend and learn to ride.
A day out would be going to Narrabeen Lakes; we’d go prawning and fishing there.''

Photo by Michael Mannington, Community Photography

Sean Keppie Nominated For Ken Stephen Medal

Monday July 26, 2021: Manly Warringah Sea Eagles News
Inspirational young Manly Warringah Sea Eagles forward Sean Keppie has been selected as the Club's nominee for the prestigious NRL Ken Stephen Medal.

The Ken Stephen Medal recognises the efforts of an NRL player who has not only achieved on the field, but has committed time off the field to community projects.

A player is nominated by their NRL club for going above and beyond in their involvement in charity work, youth development or community support. The nominated player will have consistently demonstrated their commitment to making a difference in their community and be seen as a role model in this area at their NRL club.

This year will be the 33rd instance that the Ken Stephen Medal will be awarded, with a host of worthy recipients receiving this prestigious award since Wayne Pearce won the inaugural medal in 1988, including Ryan James, Joel Thompson, Jonathan Thurston and Nathan Hindmarsh.

Sean Keppie, 23, was chosen by the Sea Eagles for his outstanding work with the Sunnyfield, Heroes with Ability, and What Ability Disability Services organisations.


Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles media photo

In between the Manly players' regular community Club commitments throughout the year, Sean also took the initiative to reach out and connect with local community organisations, volunteering his own time outside of his busy training commitments.

Prior to the Covid-19 stay-at-home safety measures, Sean would visit Sunnyfield Disability in Allambie Heights every Tuesday taking part in their music, art and sport classes, to spending time talking and connecting to everyone.

Through his regular weekly visits, he built strong connections and lasting positive impacts on those at Sunnyfield, who are excited to see watch him play in the NRL and also as part of his regular visits.

Outside of Sunnyfield, Sean also become an ambassador for Heroes with Ability organisation.

When the NSW Government implemented the stay at home order last month, Sean took time out of his weekend to jump on a Zoom call with some ‘Heroes with Ability’ clients to have a chat, answer their questions and put a smile on their faces during a difficult time for them.

Sean has also worked closely with What Ability for a number of years in various roles.

Newport Breakers Rugby: New Facilities Kindle 'Back In The Day' Memories

Great Newsletter from The Breakers this week, sharing some of the excitement about the new facilities for players and members and the community as well as a few memories:

Below is a council sketch of what the new facilities looks like, plus a few old photos of the past as well.
These are pictures of the first time we did improvements to the clubhouse in 1991/2.
We’d only just got ownership from the Harbord Diggers who’d paid for the original building.





More Time To Prepare For HSC

By NSW Dept. of Education
HSC students will be given more time to work on their major projects and to prepare for exams to reduce the impact of the current COVID-19 lockdown.

The NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) COVID-19 Response Committee has announced additional changes to the 2021 HSC timetable to give students additional time to prepare for upcoming HSC exams.

In recognition of the evolving COVID-19 situation and in line with health advice, NESA will:
  • Extend the hand in date for all major projects by two weeks. The hand-in date for Industrial Technology has been extended by four weeks
  • Reschedule Drama performance exams to run from 6 to 17 September
  • Music performance exam continue as scheduled, running from 30 August to 10 September
  • Reschedule the written exams to begin one week later on 19 October with HSC results out on 17 December.
Committee chair Professor Peter Shergold said students could still receive their results, ATAR and university offers this year despite written exams being delayed by a week.

“We know students want certainty about their exams, our priority is to limit disruption to HSC students,” he said.

“Our aim is to give students as much clarity as possible so they can focus on their studies, their goals and their personal wellbeing.

“We recognise that students and schools across the state are operating under a variety of different circumstances. We will outline a special illness and misadventure process and any other contingency arrangements needed to ensure equity and fairness for all students.”

NESA chief executive officer Paul Martin said the priority for NESA and the school sectors was providing considered advice to students that aligned with the health advice and was fair to the whole cohort.

“The changes to the exam timetables mean all students have some additional time to prepare for exams or complete their project,” Mr Martin said.

“We learnt a lot about our processes in the HSC last year and I am confident that we can apply those lessons this year.”

Earlier this week, oral language exams were rescheduled to start on 14 August.

COVID safe exam practices, including minimising school groups mixing, mandatory masks for everyone except the student during the exam, and Perspex screens will be in place at the oral language exams.

“Markers, many of whom are teachers, have an enormous undertaking ahead of them. I want to thank the teaching profession for all that they have done this year to support students,” Mr Martin said.

“I can assure markers and exam supervisors that their safety, as well as the students, is our priority.”

For regularly updated advice about the HSC see NESA’s COVID advice: educationstandards.nsw.edu.au/wps/portal/nesa/covid-19/coronavirus-advice/year-11-and-12

Teachers, students and parents can also contact the NESA COVID-19 support team on 1300 138 323 or covid19support@nesa.nsw.edu.au.

Council's Plan For Stormwater Improvements In Garden Street

Council are planning on upgrading the infrastructure on the eastern side of Garden Street at Mullet Creek due to damage caused to the structure over the years by storms.
The proposal opened for feedback on July 19 and closes on August 8th

The proposed work includes:
  • renewing the headwall and wingwalls
  • upgrading the existing undersized apron and scour protection
  • upsizing the existing stormwater pipe connection to the southern wingwall
  • installing new pedestrian fence.
View the plans and have your say by:
Feedback closes Sunday 8 August 2021.

Council anticipate commencing planned work in Spring 2021. They will notify local residents at least two weeks before starting any work.

Traffic and pedestrian management will be in place during the proposed works as necessary to minimise any impact on road users.

It is anticipated that the existing pedestrian median island in Garden Street above the stormwater culverts will need to be temporarily relocated to facilitate adequate access for the construction works.

The site will be temporarily fenced off and pedestrians will be diverted around the work site. Fencing will also be in place on the western side of the culvert crossing to restrict access to the work site via the upstream end of the culvert.

Temporary relocation of the existing bus stop on the eastern side of Garden Street will be required. The bus stop will likely be relocated to the intersection of Garden Street and Irrawong Road approximately 50 metres to the south, pending approval from Transport for NSW.

Construction works will generally occur Monday to Friday between 7am and 5pm.

Free Community Pantry: Frenchs Forest Anglican Church

July 23, 2021
Today we set up a small Community Pantry with essentials, to help out during lockdown. Especially for the many of you who have had to go into 14 days isolation. 

We've got the basics: milk, bread, fruit, butter, soup, baked beans...etc.   And some toilet paper too. 

If you need something delivered, there are others from church willing to help.  Of course, if you know of neighbours in need, please let us know that so we can help there too.

Everything is undercover, milk and butter are in the fridge. You could even drive though if you wanted.  Just make sure you wait till the person in front of you is finished, so we keep safe by keeping our distance. 

Let's do our best to keep caring for one another and those around us at this time.

Blessings from the crew at Frenchs Forest Anglican

PH: 9975 5410

Planning Proposal For Bowling Green Lane Avalon Beach

A Planning Proposal is an application to change legislation such as zoning or development controls that apply to land.

The first step in the process is a preliminary review and public notification in line with Council's Community Participation Plan.

Planning proposals must include an assessment of whether they give effect to the strategic direction set out in Towards 2040 - Local Strategic Planning Statement including all priorities and principles.

Planning proposals currently open include one for Bowling Green Lane in Avalon Beach - with feedback closing August 29 2021.

This is a Planning Proposal - rezone Green 3 of the Avalon Beach Bowling Club from R2 Low Density Residential to RE1 Public Recreation under the Pittwater Local Environmental Plan 2014.

Documents may be viewed and Feedback can be made at PEX2020/0002

Former Manly Hospital Site: Additional Uses

Planning Proposal PEX2020/0009 is a Planning Proposal to amend Schedule 1 of the Manly Local Environmental Plan 2013 to allow a range of additional permitted uses on the former Manly Hospital site to facilitate the delivery of a health and well-being precinct.

The document/report 'Community Needs Analysis and Social Strategy - 150 Darley Road Manly' lists the following range of uses as currently envisaged:
  • Adolescent and young adult hospice – as a key priority;
  • Seniors living accommodation;
  • Retail and personal services;
  • Food and beverage (F&B) uses;
  • Health and wellbeing uses, such as complementary and ancillary health services;
  • Education and training facilities;
  • Open space and civic domain enhancements, including pedestrian walkways, civic spaces, and semi-public courtyard spaces.
The proposal seeks to retain and adaptively reuse a number of existing heritage buildings and elements on the site.

Feedback closed on December 4th 2021 with a report being scheduled for July 27 2021 according to councils website.

View what documents are available at PEX2020/0009

Registration of Interest (ROI) is currently open until 30 September 2021 (approx.).
Going forward an indicative timeline provides;
  • Develop Site Master Plan, Site Specific Development Control Plan and Heritage Conservation Management Plan; 30 September – 31 December 2021
  • Planning Proposal Approved; 30 March 2022 (approx.)
  • Project Delivery; 2022 – 2024

WWII Patrols On Mona Vale Beach For Future History Pages

Pittwater Online News is currently finalising some research into Mona Vale Surf Club history for a future page, from the fishermen who went out to save people prior to any surf boat, to former Warringah Shire Council beach resumptions right through to 'ye olde sheds and clubhouses'. AJG would like to hear from anyone who knows anything about a Harbord gentleman, Mr. Alex Slater - sincere thanks in advance are extended - please email if you have any insights, memories or materials.

From the Herald of the past:

Beach Veteran's Task of Saving Lives
A man who has saved an average of 11 lives a year has just been honoured by residents of the Mona Vale district and members of the local life-saving club. 

For more than 20 years Mr. Alex Slater has carried out a self-imposed task of beach patrol duties in the district.

Although nearing his 66th birthday, Mr. Slater still carries on his work. Daily he journeys to Mona Vale from his home In Harbord, and for hours patrols the lonely beach. During the week-ends his efforts are supplemented by those of members of the Mona Vale Surf Life-saving Club.

Recognition of his services took a tangible form when residents and club members made a presentation to Mr. Slater.

"Last season Mr. Slater made several rescues, including some soldiers who had got into difficulties," said the club secretary, Mr. G. Wray, last night.

"He has saved hundreds of lives in his many years of voluntary patrol work, and although we have asked him to take a spell during the week-ends, he is most active."

The Surf Life-saving Association has arranged for its squad of demonstrators to visit Newport, Whale Beach, Mona Vale, and Avalon clubs on Sunday.

The squad, which will be in charge of the chief superintendent. Mr. J. Cameron, and the district supervisor, Mr. M. Brown, will Instruct on all phases of bronze medallion work, and demonstrate the newly-adopted rocking apparatus. 
Beach Veteran's Task of Saving Lives (1944, November 23). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article27940224 


Pets Of The Week

Iris


AGE/SEX: 10 years / F
BREED: Staffy X

Iris is a gentle sweet granny. She is affectionate and social with other dogs and good with kids. Our trainer says "Comes when called, likes pats but does not seek them out. Needs calm people as she is old and slow." She has just had a dental with 1 extraction. Out walking she walks with encouragement and ignores other dogs and cars. She walks at a good pace. She sits for treats. Walker says; "extremely well behaved". Iris would be best in a single level home. She has a smooth coat and weighs 23.8kg. She comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. Her adoption cost is $450.

Nutmeg


Nutmeg is a tortoise shell female. She was adopted from us as a kitten and recently returned at the age of 6-7 years old. She is a sweet very affectionate girl who has really come out of her shell and greets everyone who visits.
She comes desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV tested and microchipped. Her adoption fee is $220. She is at Ingleside.
Please call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 if you are interested in meeting her or email  
cats@doggierescue.com

Foster Carers Needed
Not everyone is in a position to adopt a dog, which is why DoggieRescue runs a foster program making it easy for caring dog lovers to make an immediate difference.

Meet our top ten doggies desperate for a foster home. These are most frequently doggies who have spent a long time in the shelter and are in urgent need of some quiet time in a loving home.

For further details or to meet all cats, rabbits and dogs at Doggie Rescue call 9486 3133 or email monika@DoggieRescue.com. Visit www.DoggieRescue.com to see all our dogs. www.facebook.com/doggierescue 
Rehoming Organisation No R251000024. 

Aspiring Writers Mentorship Program

Are you a budding writer?
Do you have a manuscript ready and would love to be published?
The Children's Book Council of Australia (CBCA) NSW Branch is pleased to announce that the Aspiring Writers Mentorship Program is being re-launched in 2021 with sponsorship by Cathie Tasker who will mentor the winner.  Fremantle Press will provide 2 runners-up with access to their online writing course plus the text How to be an author by Georgia Richter & Deborah Hunn.

The Aspiring Writers Mentorship Program aims to foster the talent of aspiring writers of children's literature across Australia and is open to all Australian citizens residing in Australia.

For the entry details and terms and conditions and to submit your entry by August 31, 2021 visit: https://www.cbcansw.org.au/aspiring-writers-mentorship-program


Smart Places Funding Available For Communities

Local councils and other place owners are encouraged to submit smart technology proposals via the Smart Places Acceleration Program to improve the built and natural environment across our State. 

Minister for Digital and Customer Service Victor Dominello said more than $40 million was still up for place owners wishing to deploy smart technology for the benefit of local residents, workers and visitors.  

“So far we’ve seen 75 ideas for smart place initiatives submitted, including using digital technology to improve kerbside parking in Liverpool City Council, analysis of passenger connectivity along the rail network, and insights into water consumption to drive greater water efficiencies,” Mr Dominello said.

In the latest initiative to receive funding the NSW Government will partner with Camden Council to deliver a dynamic 3D model of the entire area to assist local planners. 

“There’s been a surge in demand during the pandemic for technology solutions to everyday issues like contactless payment and checking in safely to venues via QR codes. We are calling on place owners to come forward with ideas that improve quality of life in your community and beyond,” Mr Dominello said.

“Whether you are a local council, government agency, property owner or regional organisation, the Smart Places Acceleration Program is designed to support the deployment of smart places technology trials. 

“NSW is the most digitally advanced jurisdiction in the country and this funding will help bolster our COVID recovery.”

The program complements the Government’s Smart Places Strategy and Smart Infrastructure Policy. To successfully access funding, interested parties should be able to demonstrate that they can meet and apply the foundational requirement established through the Smart Places Strategy. 

Visit the Department of Planning Industry and Environment website to learn more about the Smart Places Strategy and the process for submitting an expression of interest. For further information please email NSW planning

Sydney Wildlife Recycled Bottles For Wildlife 2021

Sydney Wildlife Rescue is registered for return and earn in NSW. This time it is accessed by an App called My Tomra  - which is the organisation that runs the recycling. 

Once you have downloaded the My Tomra App. Just search “Our Wildlife” you will see Sydney Wildlife Rescue listed. You can set that as the payout. 

So you just scan the bar code from the App  at the recycling machine and the 10c will be donated to Sydney Wildlife Rescue. The machines can be located anywhere in NSW.  

Please have a look it’s a good way to support us to care for wildlife and do your bit to keep Australia Beautiful.

Domestic Violence Support 

NB: Where to get help Fact Sheet is below. Simply click on PDF and 'save as' on your own device

People experiencing domestic violence can be assured police and frontline services are ready to support them and their families.

Member for Manly James Griffin said the Northern Beaches community should not hesitate to seek help and support at this time. 

“If you are in danger or in an emergency call Triple Zero (000),” Mr Griffin said. “If you are in need of support services, such as housing or counselling, our hard working frontline staff are also available to help those suffering domestic violence.”  

“No person, whether they live on the Northern Beaches or anywhere in Australia, should in live in fear of violence and I urge people to seek the help they need when it is safe to do so.”

Mr Griffin added that perpetrators are on notice and that police have increased efforts to combat violence in the home including more proactive operations to enforce protection orders.  
“Police will continue to conduct Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) compliance checks to keep victims safe.”

NSW Police Force Domestic Violence Corporate Spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Mark Jones, said police are monitoring rates of domestic violence. 

“High-risk and repeat offenders are being targeted by specially trained police to ensure that all orders are strictly followed and complied with and offenders are arrested if violence is detected,” Assistant Commissioner Jones said.  “Police are also able to vary existing interim or final ADVOs if we know that violence is escalating, without needing to first go to court, so victims are immediately protected.
Where to get help - March 2020.pdfWhere to get help - March 2020.pdf
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Speed Humps On McCarrs Creek Rd: Please Share Wildlife Data 

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

It records the GPS position, date, sex, species. Photos can be added as they help in identification
The data is then forwarded to OEH and Transport NSW as it can help establish the best places to place  mitigation. Thanking you all in advance for your help with this.

We need your help. Thank you for reporting wildlife road fatalities. There is so much wildlife on the move in our area at present due to various pressures. Although we have had pictures sent to us, many of these have no date or location.

There is a database that volunteers maintain but this needs three pieces of information:
  1. The position via GPS or road and suburb
  2. The date
  3. The animal
The details can be entered into the database directly by you at:

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Stalls At Pittwater Place

Our Avalon Mothers’ Day stall was most successful raising $2,400 which we will spend on outdoor furniture for the new Palliative Care Centre.

“Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary members will be holding stalls at Pittwater Place, Mona Vale on the first Saturday of the month for the rest of the year, selling knitting, sewing, craft, jams and books, from 8am to 3pm.”


The purpose of  www.westpittwater.com.au  - is best defined by the vision of the West Pittwater Community Association.

To be a supportive community, encouraging and promoting civic pride, interest in community affairs and goodwill amongst residents.

To protect local fauna and flora and generally preserve West Pittwater and its environs.

To secure essential facilities including public wharves and reserves and to protect private and public property.

To speak with one voice and represent the interests of the Western Foreshore community when in discussion with Pittwater Council and other relevant government bodies. The WPCA website provides a forum for the better realisation of these objectives. Visit: www.westpittwater.com.au

DV: Leave

Domestic Violence NSW
If you are experiencing domestic violence, current COVID-19 restrictions do not apply - you can leave your local area to get somewhere safe. Call the DV Line for help.

NB: Where to get help Fact Sheet is at base of this page. Simply click on PDF and 'save as' on your own device

People experiencing domestic violence can be assured police and frontline services are ready to support them and their families.

ADF Training In New South Wales From July To December 2021

NB: for those hearing aircraft/helicopters late a night and 2-3am- many thanks to Cr. De Luca for finding out what's going on

Australian Defence Force personnel will conduct maritime counter-terrorism training in Sydney Harbour and New South Wales coastal waters from the Central Coast to Jervis Bay from July to December 2021. 

The training will be conducted during the day and night. 

The public should not be alarmed if they see or hear military watercraft, vehicles, unmanned aerial surveillance systems and military personnel carrying weapons. 

Blank and paint ammunition will be used during some aspects of the training.

People who see the training should not be concerned that any of the locations are under any form of actual threat.

This essential training is vital to maintain Australia’s world-class military capability. It is not a part of the Australian Government’s COVID-19 response. The training is being conducted in a manner that accounts for COVID-19 restrictions and good health management processes.

Defence is unable to provide media access or further information, including specific timings, regarding this training in order to protect operational tactics, techniques and procedures.

New Policy To Drive Housing Choice And Supply

Saturday July 31 2021
More diverse housing is on the way for NSW , with a new planning policy making it mandatory that boarding houses are affordable while introducing co-living as a new housing option.

The proposed Housing State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) will be the first principle-led, consolidated  Housing SEPP, and  is now  on exhibition for public comment.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the housing  options  offer new housing types and tenures to accommodate Sydney’s growing population.

“As our population grows and changes, so do our housing needs. Traditional housing arrangements are just not suitable for many, especially those on low incomes,” Mr Stokes said.

“The proposed SEPP has been developed following extensive consultation and we’re giving everyone a final chance to have their say to ensure we get it right.

“The changes streamline planning pathways in support of local strategic planning, so we get the right mix of housing types in the right locations.

“It is  part  of  our  wider  efforts  to  boost  housing  supply,  which  include progressing rezonings in key growth areas, particularly Greater Sydney, and establishing the Regional Housing Taskforce to identify roadblocks to housing supply  in regional NSW.”

The Housing SEPP also proposes that boarding houses would only be permitted  in  low density residential areas if councils allow it, while providing clarity around where seniors living is permitted.

The draft Housing SEPP contains new and updated provisions, including:
  • Boarding Houses – rooms will need to be rented at an affordable rate and managed by a registered community housing provider;
  • Co-living housing – housing designed for community living, with private spaces connected to community facilities, and includes student housing; and
  • Seniors Housing – setting out zones where seniors housing will be permissible to provide more certainty for councils and the community, and to encourage development in accessible locations.
For more information and to provide your feedback visit planning.nsw.gov.au/housing-sepp

Have your say
You can view the Housing SEPP consultation draft and supporting documents on the Planning Portal.
We encourage you to have your say and submit feedback on the Housing SEPP consultation draft via the NSW Planning Portal by 29 August 2021.

Letterbox Theft During Rates/Stickers Issue Month

Residents at Narrabeen and Elanora Heights have noticed a spike in theft of mail from letterboxes this week, leading some to believe this may be related to people wanting the council issued parking stickers that come with the first Rates Notice for the 2021/22 document.

Opportunistic thefts of mail have become a part of what occurs unfortunately. 
The NSW Police Force Crime Prevention Series provides the following advice:

Modern life is all about easy access and convenience for the customer. This includes how we
receive and send goods and information. Items such as credit cards, drivers licences and utility statements sent out in the mail include vital personal details of you and your family.

In the wrong hands some of this information can be used to create false identifications and
used for crime. This type of crime costs millions of dollars each year and can have devastating
consequences for your financial reputation.

By following some of these simple tips we all can better protect ourselves from this type of crime.

Secure your mail
  • Always install a lockable mailbox.
  • Always use a quality lock on your mailbox.
  • Never allow your mailbox to become full or overflow.
Protect your mail
  • Always arrange to collect new credit cards from the bank or post office.
  • Always have mail held at the post office or collected by a friend when you’re away for
  • extended periods.
  • Always have your mail cleared daily.
Protect your identity
  • Always beware of ‘cold calling’ and confirm who you are talking to.
  • Never give any of your personal details to people you don’t know or trust.
  • Always contact your bank, financial institution or service provider if you think you have
  • been contacted by a scammer.
If you are aware of mail being stolen and used to obtain fraudulent identity, please contact Crime
Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppers.com.au

Calling All Artists!

We are inviting artists to submit artworks for our 2021 inaugural Rotary Art Exhibition and Auction to help raise funds for some very worthy charities, making a difference in our local and global community. 
For more information, please contact artshow@rotaryuppernorthernbeaches.org or Liz 0412 007 068 or Gill 0409 783 295.

This is a great example of how Rotary supports the community.  Even during lockdown, we continue to have productive meetings via zoom. We continue to make a difference and we enjoy each other’s company. We also have some great speakers lined up over the coming weeks. 

To find out more about Rotary and/or attend one of our meetings, please call Tony Butera on 0418 280 849.

Kimbriki: Essential Services Only

July 29, 2021: Kimbriki Resource Recovery Centre
In line with current NSW Health Orders, and lockdown restrictions, Kimbriki is open for Essential Services ONLY.

The government advice is that residential customers wanting to drop household waste and recyclables to Kimbriki are NOT classified as “Essential” and we ask that any non-essential customers please delay visiting Kimbriki until the lockdown restrictions are lifted.

Please be aware that you risk incurring significant fines if your visit to Kimbriki is not essential in accordance with this list.

To view the current stay-at-home rules in place for greater Sydney please go to http://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/rules/greater-sydney

If you do need to make a trip to Kimbriki, and you meet one of the identified essential criteria, please be aware the following site changes and requirements in place:
  • Kimbriki is open seven days a week from 7am – 5pm for essential services only.
  • You MUST wear a mask at all times while onsite.
  • You MUST practice social distancing at all times.
  • You MUST not approach staff.
  • YOU MUST check in using the QR codes provided, or manual sign-in forms if you do not have a phone.
To view the full list of COVID related changes on-site at Kimbriki please go to www.kimbriki.com.

Discussion Paper To Encourage Views On Proposed Planning Controls

Northern Beaches Council is required by the NSW Government to consolidate four planning control documents into one and will release a discussion paper to collect community views.

Mayor Michael Regan said the preparation of a whole of Northern Beaches Local Environment Plan (LEP) and Development Control Plan (DCP) would be based largely on existing controls and was not seeking to increase heights in residential areas or increase densities in areas that have not already been identified.

He said the NSW Government requirement to review the documents provides an opportunity to introduce greater protection for our environment, raise the bar on sustainability and encourage local employment.

“To be crystal clear, there are no plans for increasing densities beyond what has already been identified – our housing strategy made clear we only need to find an additional 275 dwellings,” Mayor Regan said.

“No one wants to see our area overdeveloped or the local character destroyed.

“Our aim is to ensure we maintain our great lifestyle, protect the local character and environment we so value, provide green space, infrastructure to support growth, and local employment for the future.”

He encouraged members of the community to have their say during the six-week exhibition to inform the development of the draft LEP and DCP which will come back to the community for further consultation next year.

“Since amalgamation in 2016, the Northern Beaches has still been operating under four different planning instruments each with different planning controls,” Cr Regan said.

“We have an opportunity to use the government’s requirement to now consider ways to strengthen the protections for our environment, constrain development in inappropriate locations, incentivise affordable housing and support local job growth.

“The discussion paper considers these kinds of opportunities and asks the community for their ideas and input.”

To support local business and to provide an improved retail shopping experience and greater flexibility in the use of the space, Council’s Urban Design expert panel have suggested small height increases in business centres – no more than 1.5 metres.

And to meet the demand for floor space in industrial zones the community is asked to comment on a small increase of building heights in industrial areas.

“Our business centres and industrial areas are the employment heart of the Northern Beaches, providing an opportunity for residents to live locally and work locally.

“We are ruling out large height increases but asking the community for feedback on measures that could help rejuvenate industrial areas and support local jobs.”

Among other things, the discussion paper also asks for community response to:
  • improved controls for development near waterways, foreshores, wetlands and riparian lands;
  • more water sensitive urban design and greater tree canopy;
  • performance standards for net-zero carbon emission buildings;
  • reducing areas for permitted dual occupancy, boarding houses and seniors’ housing to reduce inappropriate development in sensitive locations;
  • provisions to restrict large scale retail in small retail centres.
Mayor Regan said the LEP and DCP is required to align with the State Government’s Greater Sydney Region Plan and North District Plan.

“This is the start of the process of creating a vision for a sustainable future for a great place to live, work and play,” he said.

NB: the Draft LEP and DCP is now available. Council documents/projects on display for feedback are stored HERE - Feedback closes Septmebvr 5th, 2021

Council In Historic Coalition Of Councils To Recycle Kerbside Glass Into Local Roads

Tuesday, 27 July 2021
Northern Beaches Council has joined forces with 15 Sydney councils to drive a new age of sustainable road-making by prioritising the use of recycled crushed glass where feasible as a substitute for natural sand in local roads and footpaths. 

It is all part of the Southern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (SSROC), Paving the Way initiative. 

Starting in July 2021, Paving the Way is expected to recycle the equivalent of over 80 million glass bottles per year back into local roads, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to planting 14,000 trees per year. The recycled crushed glass is turned into a coarse sand which is used as a substitute for natural sand in asphalt, non-structural concrete and pipe bedding.

While most kerbside glass is currently recycled back into bottles, Paving the Way will ensure that remaining glass not fit for making bottles is recycled locally. 

Mayor Regan said Council was proud to be part of the largest local government-led procurement of its kind in NSW.  

“Paving the Way is helping to revolutionise our approach to recycling as councils take an increasingly proactive role in the supply chain to keep the cost of recycling down. Northern Beaches Council is proud to be taking the next step with our residents in building a more sustainable and resilient community.

“Our community also plays a pivotal role by ensuring that recycled waste is correctly separated from other recycling.  We need to work together so that the waste going into the yellow-lid bin serves as a valuable resource in building a more sustainable community.

“Together, we are paving the way for tomorrow.” 

Paving the Way is stimulating end markets for recycled glass while supporting local jobs and the development of essential recycling infrastructure in the region.  

Increasing the value of recyclable glass also supports the stabilisation of council recycling costs. 

Councils participating in Paving the Way include Bayside, Burwood, Canada Bay, Canterbury-Bankstown, City of Sydney, Georges River, Hornsby, Inner West, Lane Cove, Northern Beaches, Randwick, Ryde, Sutherland, Waverley, Willoughby and Woollahra. 

Council Support For Local Businesses

Wednesday, 28 July 2021
Northern Beaches Council will provide further support for local businesses battling their third COVID lockdown by extending the waiver on outdoor dining fees and merchandise display fees until 31 December 2021.

Mayor Michael Regan said it was Council's priority to ensure local businesses are supported through the crisis.

"The current Sydney lockdown has again hit our local business community hard. They have only just begun to get back on their feet following the Northern Beaches lockdown over Christmas and New Year.

"It's very important we continue to be there for them.

"I know from my regular discussions with the business chambers and local businesses that our more than $9 million in business support initiatives have assisted our local businesses during very difficult times.

“Our Business Support Service, implementation of 10 min parking for takeaway, webinars to build online capacity, the recent tradie forum, grants and the various fee, rates and rental waivers have made a difference and complemented the financial assistance provided by the state and federal governments.”

The fee waiver extension is estimated to cost $660,000.

Northern Beaches Council has provided $10.1 million (including this fee waiver extension) in financial support to the community and local businesses throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Please Dispose Of Single Use Masks At Home

On a short walk yesterday three masks were picked up of the ground within 10 metres. Same thing the day before. These probably dropped out of a pocket or something alike that after use  - but, these can impact on wildlife and cause death.

Let's look after our wildlife as well as each other during this latest challenge. 
Please be careful and ensure you take yours home so we don't see this:


Avalon Beach 100th Celebrations

Roger Treagus called an open meeting of interested community members on 10/6/21 hosted by Av Bowlo and assisted by Councillor McTaggart, to canvass ideas for the community to celebrate this event.

Some Ideas so far include asking the community to provide historical film/photos of living here to process into a movie for local screening, Tree Planting, Bands, Celebrating indigenous culture, A Guinness book event and more.
They will post updates to Avalon What’s On Facebook page.

Meanwhile Roger is keen to hear from anyone with film/pics to lend, celebration ideas or to volunteer help or resources.

A Facebook webpage has been set up to share information at www.facebook.com/Avalon-Beach-100

Contact:- Roger Treagus Convenor- Avalon Beach 100 Committee via email:-  rtreagus@optusnet.com.au

Council To Apply For State Heritage Status For Iconic Park

Wednesday, 28 July 2021
Northern Beaches Council will nominate the Manly Warringah War Memorial State Park for State Heritage status, recognising its environmental, Aboriginal cultural, and historical significance.

Council last night agreed to submit an application to the Heritage Council of NSW for consideration.

Mayor Michael Regan said the Park meets the criteria for State listing. 

"The heritage values of Manly Warringah War Memorial State Park have been recognised for a century. The Park is highly valued by the local community for its scenic beauty and as a recreation venue, conservation area and Aboriginal cultural site.

"It also includes the historic dam structure and significant ecological communities and populations of rare and endangered flora and fauna.

"State Listing is very important, because it recognises the State Park as a very significant place, and safeguards the environmental, economic and cultural benefits of this fantastic area for present and future generations."

The Park is approximately 377 hectares in size, with areas of remnant bushland, open water and modified landscape (including a golf course and picnic areas).

The Park is Crown land and Council is the Crown Land Manager.

Katoa Close Parking Problems: Council Looking For Solutions

Residents of Narrabeen report they have received a proposal from Council to try and address community concerns regarding the parking of trailers in the parking spaces leaving insufficient space for those who wish to access the reserve or for visitors to the street.

Council is proposing an 8P timed parking restriction from applying from 8am to 6pm every day on the reserve side of the street and invites feedback by August 13th, 2021.

Written submissions can be sent to PO Box 82, Manly, 1655 or emailed to Council@northernbeaches.gov.au.

Once the feedback has been reviewed by the Northern Beaches Council Traffic Committee will look into the matter and a decision will be available on council's website one week afterwards.

A concept plan was enclosed:


Council Helping Get Solar On Schools

Thursday, 29 July 2021
Council is trialling a program known as ‘Solar my School’ which makes it easier for local schools to install solar and shrink their carbon footprint.

In the initial roll out of the program Northern Beaches’ schools were invited to register their interest to fill one of three spots available as part of the trial.

Stella Maris College, Manly is the first local school to have panels installed through the program, with plans in the pipeline for both Balgowlah North Public School and Fisher Road School at Dee Why.

A 49kW system, with a total of 109 panels, has been installed on the roof of Stella Maris College’s Star of the Sea Theatre. It is the equivalent of powering 11 Australian homes; taking 19 cars off the road; or the energy used in over 307 school computers!

Director of Business Services at Stella Maris College, Zita Briones said the ‘Solar my School’ program was instrumental in helping us.

“From undertaking a feasibility assessment, providing recommendations on the most suitable installation for our needs, assisting with the grant application and helping with the tender process.”

“They have helped us realise an efficient and effective project from start to finish,” added Ms Briones.

The Council run ‘Solar my School’ Program was originally developed by Waverley, Randwick and Woollahra Councils in 2016 and is now available to other Councils.

The trial of the program will support Council’s community renewable energy and emission reduction commitments in the adopted Environment & Climate Change Strategy.
109 solar panels have been installed on the roof of Stella Maris College’s Star of the Sea Theatre as part of the 'Solar my School' program. 




Drone shot of the roof of the Stella Maris College’s Star of the Sea Theatre, as part of the 'Solar my 
School' program.