This Issue:
Profile of the Week Guyren SmithNewport SLSC's new president has some priorities for his 2022-2023 term, securing fit-for-purpose facilities in the 90 year old clubhouse and reengaging members and the community after two years of Covid lockdowns.
In 2014 Guyren Smith was named the Newport Surf Club 'Clubman of the Year' by Members.He served as Patrol Captain, Nipper Age Manager, Accredited Level 1 Official, Trainer Bronze Medallion and Probationary Assessor Trainer IRB, Vice Chairman Nippers, the IRB Racing Team Captain and IRB Captain.
Guyren has also consistently been a medal winner in the Champion Lifesaver competition at SLS NSW State Carnivals in the 40+ age division. He won the Gold in 2018, 2019, 2021 and took the bronze in 2020.
When the Summer Season ends Guyren commences engaging with club Members in taking part in the annual Winter IRB Competitions run by Surf Life Saving New South Wales that feed into the National Competition. Guyren, with others, reignited Newport becoming part of this around 20 years ago.
Newport Surf Club hosted the Finals in 2013, won Bronze in 2017 in the U23's and has improved with each successive Championship, making the Grand Final in a number of events during the 2022 Premiership and State Championships.
Guyren also undertakes Assessments for Bronzes for other clubs, and is a member of the Newport Emergency Response Team that is called out to respond to bushfires and flooding events. Mr. Smith also runs his own business atop being a 12 months of the year part of the Surf Life Saving Movement.
This Issue, a few insights into Newport's new surf club president.
Set atop Palm Beach on Pacific road is a home that only served as a place to enjoy summer but became a year round residence for this Sydney family and a place in which they entertained many prominent Australian Artists and visiting Artistes. Called by many 'The Pink House' this premises name via its owners was 'The Cabin', indicating its original size and use as a Summer refuge. The original owners were Dr. Robert Gordon and Maria Graeme Craig. our local crumbling cavern...
Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: December 1, 2022
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To contact Roy: editor@scotlandisland.org.au
2022-2023 Issues Of Pittwater Online News
Our last Issue for 2022 will be published Sunday December 11th.
Our first Issue for 2023 will be published Sunday January 15th.
Staff will still be meeting commitments for all community events and meetings where attendance/ photography/reports have been requested.
We have had requests for 'add ins' over the next few days and weeks and will accommodate these when and where possible. We realise we're 'clocking off' a week sooner than expected.
Thank you for all your contributions again this year - you have made your local news service shine with generous sharing of stories, photos and tips, and being unafraid to speak out when that is called for.
We'd like to wish you all the very best for a peaceful and restful Christmas and New Year and look forward to serving you again throughout 2023.
Please, look after yourselves and each other.
Thank you very much.
We remain:
For, About and BY Pittwater.
Christmas is a special time of the year and we’re blessed to live in an amazing part of the world to enjoy the festivities.
Joining together with family and friends over Christmas is something we’ve certainly learnt not to take for granted over recent years. It’s a cherished and enjoyable time, and an opportunity to give thanks for everything we’re grateful for.
For many, Christmas is also among the busiest times of the year - especially those who we rely and depend upon. This includes our emergency service personnel, key workers and volunteer organisations. These are the wonderful people that help make Pittwater such an incredible place to live.
I hope everyone can find time to take a break, relax and enjoy our spectacular natural environment over the festive season.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Rob Stokes, Member for Pittwater
It has been an honour for me and my team this year to have worked alongside the many organisations, community groups and constituents who, in so many ways, champion change to improve the lives of those in Mackellar.
Thank you so much for your hard work and dedication to supporting our community.
My warmest wishes to everyone in Mackellar for Christmas and the New Year. I look forward to continuing to work with you in 2023 in representing your voice as the Independent Member for Mackellar.
Dr. Sophie Scamps, MP For Mackellar
Mayor's End Of Year Message
2022 has been a challenging but rewarding year for the Northern Beaches. I’ve personally seen the community band together after a couple of tough years.
While the pandemic has continued to take its toll, and devastating rainstorms and flooding saw the Northern Beaches twice being declared a natural disaster zone, our community has continued to show great strength and resilience.
During the worst of it, we worked with our community conducting door-to-door welfare checks, facilitating hundreds of additional waste collections and supporting our local businesses in recovery.
I am very proud of my team and of all the local organisations who worked with us to do that, and to those who continue to strive every day to make this a wonderful place to live.
The feeling of life opening back up has been a cause for celebration, and on top of this – our hard work at Council is paying off.
We have received a spate of awards in recent months for delivering on our promise to serve the community better and to work on becoming a more sustainable local government area.
Looking back to the beginning of the year, after public health orders were lifted, we took every opportunity to reconnect our community and boost our economy through events.
Sun Run was the first mass participation event in NSW after COVID, we reshaped Taste of the Beaches and pulled off a massive new event, PLAY MANLY, rewarding Manly CBD with a 9% uplift in visitor spending during the festival.
In late 2022 Northern Beaches Council was awarded the AR Bluett Memorial Award, described as ‘the pinnacle of local government achievement’. The AR Bluett Memorial Award has been running since 1945 and it is a hotly contested competition that recognises the most progressive metropolitan and rural council out of 128 across NSW. Since amalgamation we have had a huge focus on repairing and renewing ailing infrastructure, delivering long term financial stability and putting the community at the centre of everything we do.
In 2022 alone, we delivered a solid $76 million capital works program despite the weather disruptions, including completing the Mona Vale Surf Club – an incredible and roundly welcomed new community asset. And next year Long Reef SLSC will open.
Our focus on resilience and sustainability has led to the rehabilitation of Careel Creek, installation of over 2000sqm of sustainable concrete, support for solar on schools and a diversion of more waste from landfill - up from 49% of domestic waste in 2018/19 to 66% in 2021/22.
Our continued focus on the customer saw our customer satisfaction score shift from 71% in 2019 to 88% this year. We have also won awards for being leaders in reducing our carbon emissions and we have saved money by switching to renewable energy sources at Council.
At Christmas, this is a time to really enjoy our beautiful clean beaches, connect with friends and family at our homes again and perhaps even enjoy some fireworks displays on 31 December along our foreshores, beaches and parks.
A huge thank you to all our staff and volunteers, Councillors, the CEO and Directors.
Our appreciation also goes out to you, the many great people in our community who gave feedback on draft projects, partnered to deliver events and initiatives, or sat on our working groups. You have all contributed to this wonderful year!
Looking ahead together 2023 is shaping up to be a fantastic year - with more initiatives to support local businesses, keep the friendly spirit of Northern Beaches alive and create healthy, connected communities.
Mayor Michael Regan
Northern beaches Council
Christmas Message From DoggieRescue
Dear Readers
We would like to wish all the readers a safe and happy Christmas and festive season. We all know what a hard year it has been and we also want to thank all you local supporters for helping to keep our doors open against the rising tide of increasing costs and the plethora of unwanted animals. Attached is a thank you from some of the dogs that found homes throughout the year.
If any of you are looking for gifts for your dog loving friends, please click here for a DoggieRescue calendar, only $20 which helps us save more lives!
Visit: https://doggierescue.com/
Wishing you all the very best.
Monika and all the DoggieRescue furkids!
Photos: Dogs Monika's DoggieRescue pets that found homes in 2022. Soldier with me saying Merry Christmas! Cover of 2023 Doggie Rescue Calendar.
Thank You: Friends Of Soibada
It has been a wonderful year of returning to normality – almost! It has been tough trying to maintain our usual level of support for Pittwater’s sister village Soibada in Timor Leste (formerly East Timor) during the Covid years. However, our great team of volunteers has managed to keep the momentum going and a surprising number of projects have been completed without us in the country.
After a frantic fundraising drive at the end of 2021 the interim Soibada Preschool opened early in the new year. Our community funded 10 scholarships and made it possible for pre-schoolers from Soibada Sub Villages (sucos) to attend. Wages for two qualified teachers were also raised. When the team visited in July it became apparent that the staff and Sisters had done an incredible job. The education standard at the preschool is so high that the local primary school children come up for extra lessons at the end of their classes.
We managed to send a group to Soibada in July and again in October. Much has changed in the village during our absence. The leaders we had worked with in the past have moved on and been replaced. A committee has been established to help us with our projects and lots of new relationships were formed. The way ahead looks very organised! We now have dedicated project managers on our team for Health and Medical, Education, and Women’s Small Business Development. There will be news about developments in these areas in January.
Hospitality and Training education has been going well at the centre that we previously funded. A traditional cooking competition was held in July, sponsored by Avalon Beach RSL Club. The uniforms for the centre have been donated by Dee Why RSL Club. A student from Mater Maria Catholic College was involved in this event.
One of our volunteers has taken on the onerous task of our website! So our marketing and media will be taken to the next level soon. In the meantime Facebook is the easiest way to keep up to date.
The blankets and baby clothes made by local volunteers were gratefully received. They are more than items of clothing or warmth, they are a symbol of our love and care for the families in our sister village. The Soibada Knitters and Crocheters meet on Thursdays during term time at Avalon Beach RSL and would welcome more members. There are others out there in our community who supply us with handmade items for Soibada as well. We are always in need of donations of wool.
None of the many projects would be at all possible if it wasn’t for our generous volunteers and donors. There are countless people quietly working throughout the year in the background to make this happen. Thank you all for your dedication and love for Soibada.
We would like to wish all a very Merry Christmas and New Years and look forward to continuing our support, with your help, for Pittwater’s sister village Soibada in Timor Leste in 2023.
Tamara Sloper Harding OAM
Chair, Friends of Soibada
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Bilgola Plateau Probus Christmas Party
Our Xmas party on 2 Dec at The Glasshouse, Pittwater RSL had 40 attendees.
We next meet on 3 Feb 2023 and welcome interest to join. We have gone from 7 members in Sept when we formed, to 58 and growing.
To find out more, please visit: Bilgola Plateau Probus Club
Council Selling Block Of Land That Protects Burnt Bridge Creek - Local Wildlife Species
The Save Manly Dam Catchment Committee have teamed up with friends in North Balgowlah and Seaforth to try and protect Burnt Bridge Creek and the riparian zone in a bid to try and stop the Northern Beaches Council selling off land for development.
A Motion for the last Council Meeting of the year, December 13, 2022 has been submitted by Councillor Candy Bingham calling on a Pause of the Expression of Interest process for Council-owned lands Lot 1 DP 130467 and Lot 873792, also known as 2 Bangaroo Street, North Balgowlah, to allow for further assessment and consultation.
Cr. Bingham also calls for the Council to undertake a community-wide consultation in recognition of the value of the Burnt Bridge Creek to the wider community, as the community has not, as yet, had any say on the sale of this land.
The Notice of Determination for DA2015/1156 was issued on May 30, 2016, by Northern Beaches Council, while under the governance of the Administrator, shortly after it was formed. This DA2015/1156 would have ordinarily expired on June 6, 2021, but was extended for two years to June 6, 2023 due to COVID 19.
Acting upon Resolution 7.1 of Warringah Council's Minutes of Council Meeting of 11th April, 2006, Northern Beaches Council's newly-formed Property Strategy Committee commenced the sale of this land. A real estate agent was engaged and advertisements noting DA approval to subdivide the land into three lots were placed calling for "Expressions of Interest". This process closed on 2 December, 2022.
They would like residents to express opposition to this sale by writing to Councillors to pause the sale process and reconsider options. https://2bangaroostreet.com/actions/
A message from those in Manly, North Balgowlah and Seaforth;
''Please help us save Burnt Bridge Creek from development! Its riparian wildlife corridor helps protect so many of our local species, including our endangered grey-headed flying fox camp. Northern Beaches Council has put on sale for subdivision and development a large area of riparian bush, at 2 Bangaroo St. This is despite this land being classified in the Council's own recent Waterways study as of 'high environmental value' and within a proposed protected riparian buffer zone.
The sale is legal only because the Council is using a zoning loophole, dating back to Warringah Council days. The sale of this land has never been put to our elected Council representatives, or the community.
Fortunately, our Manly Ward Councillors have a Notice of Motion on the agenda for the last meeting of the year, this Tuesday, December 13 - calling for the sale process to be paused and environmental factors to be taken into account.
For more information and a 'one click' method to voice your opposition to the sale please go to: https://2bangaroostreet.com/actions/ (This website has more information.)
Please write something simple now, possibly starting with "I object to NBC's proposed sale of land at 2 Bangaroo Street North Balgowlah because ......" -'
RPAYC’s Louis Tilly Wins WASZP 2022 WA State Championship
December 13, 2022
In an indicative warm-up to the National titles on the Swan River in January, Louis took out the 8 race WA States from Laser Radial World champion, Tristan Brown. This great event was run from the Royal Freshwater Bat Yacht Club. Victory in Perth caps off a run of successes with Louis so far this season winning in Queensland, NSW and now WA.
The win on count-back was delivered on a stunning Perth day with the strong seabeeze propelling the sailfoilers around Freshwater and Claremont Bays at breathtaking speeds. The top two boats were in close battle (including a substantial collision) for all three races on the last day.
Collecting the Bazel Twine Memorial Trophy, Louis thanked the organisers, volunteers, follow competitors and his home club.
Jervis Tilly also representing RPAYC, secured 3rd overall in the regatta and 1st in the hotly contested Super Master division.The smaller sail (6.8m) division was taken out by up and coming local Perth sailor, Jamie Bougher.
In the WASZP class, RPAYC can now claim highest Australian ranking WASZP sailor (Louis) and 11th fastest recorded WASZP speed globally with Jervis topping out at 24.3 kts crossing the line at the end of race 8 in WA.
This coming weekend many RPAYC WASZPs will be at Sail Sydney in their last competitive event prior to the Nationals which will be run from the Perth Dinghy Sailing Club from 22 to 27 January 2023. Currently, six boats plan to represent RPAYC at the Nationals.
The WASZP has been selected as Australian Sailing’s supported Sailfoiler. It caters for sailors of all ages from Opti graduates to more mature types.
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Congratulations William Cassell BHS: Equal First In Music: HSC 2022 Results
December 15, 2022
Music 1: William Cassell, Barrenjoey High School (equal first)
Will was School captain at BHS in 2022 and read the Prayers at the Anzac Day Commemorative Service at Avalon Beach RSL Cenotaph this year, along with fellow School Captain Hannah Pepper.
William started playing the flute at an early age and told the SMH his teacher was one of the biggest factors in helping him get one of the top scores in the subject.
“I definitely had a good teacher, she was very passionate, she completely changed the way I thought about music,”
“She was an absolute inspiration, I have been playing since I was eight years old, it was my first passion.” Will said
Will was presented with his certificate from NESA by NSW Education Minister Sarah Mitchell.
Will has also been awarded a Tuckwell Scholarship for 2023.
In July 2022 the Tuckwell Scholarship Program announced its tenth annual award of 25 Scholarships, to students who will commence their undergraduate studies at ANU in February 2023.
“We are delighted to welcome to the Tuckwell community another 25 truly exceptional young people from across Australia” said founder Dr Louise Tuckwell AO. “The panel this year has been impressed by their academic and personal achievements, as well as their commitment to their diverse communities.”
“The Tuckwell Scholarship is a unique and life-changing opportunity for exceptional young people to get together, share their ideas and inspire each other” said founder Dr Graham Tuckwell AO.
“This year we have again received an enormous number of high quality applications, and I am confident that these talented young people will not only embody the Tuckwell attributes, they will also inspire others to strive and achieve.”
The Tuckwell Scholarship Program at the ANU is the most transformational undergraduate scholarship program in Australia. With a total scholarship package valued at up to $140,000, it offers funding to students for five years of full-time study; allowing them to take full advantage of their time at university, including the many academic, social, cultural, sporting and leadership opportunities that come with life on campus.
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State's Top HSC Students Celebrated
By NSW Dept. of Education
126 students who have obtained first place in a 2022 HSC course have been acknowledged for their extraordinary academic achievement. In a NSW first, students who have achieved despite adversity have also been recognised.
Premier Dominic Perrottet congratulated the students and said finishing first in one of the 114 world-class HSC courses examined this year is cause for celebration.
“These young people have shown what can be achieved when you combine ability and passion with commitment – qualities which will prove invaluable throughout their careers and lives,” Mr Perrottet said.
“Congratulations to all the exceptional students who have achieved First in Course for the 2022 HSC. You should be proud of what you have accomplished.”
Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell said 135 certificates will be presented to 126 students, with nine students topping more than one course.
“These students have triumphed in their final senior years of school and deserve to be celebrated,” Ms Mitchell said.
“Today we also thank the schools, the teachers and school communities who supported these students throughout their education journey, as well as their parents and carers.
“It is also so important that we celebrate students who have achieved outstanding outcomes in the face of adversity, which is why this year, we’ve introduced a new award to recognise the resilience of schools impacted by flooding across the state.”
This year, 14 Commendation Awards will be issued in recognition of school communities who went above and beyond to set-up learning spaces and provide the necessary resources to ensure students could continue learning despite challenges due to flooding.
To view the First in Course merit list, visit: https://educationstandards.nsw.edu.au/wps/portal/nesa/about/events/merit-lists/first-in-course
All Round Achievers, Top Achievers and Distinguished Achievers will be published on the NESA website at midday today.
All 75,000 students who sat at least one HSC exam in 2022 will receive their results by SMS, email and online from 6am today.
2022 Volunteer Team Of The Year: One Meal Northern Beaches Co-Op Volunteers
One Meal Northern Beaches are State Winners at NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards.
“By providing consistent, reliable and good quality food relief, One Meal Northern Beaches provides not only food relief, but opportunities to connect and engage in positive ways within the community.” – Nominator
The One Meal Northern Beaches Co-op is a volunteer-run charity providing dignified and free access to healthy, fresh cooked meals to the homeless and vulnerable. Launched in 2019, One Meal has grown from delivering 1,200 meals a week, to over 6,000.
Over the last 2 years, it has expanded its services to cater to the unprecedented demand driven by the pandemic. One Meal now operates five community meal services each week, provides breakfast packs to over 80 disadvantaged students, and supports over 16 social and community organisations who refer clients (including NSW Health, Royal North Shore Hospital, and Mission Australia to name a few).
One Meal’s positive impact extends beyond alleviating food insecurity. It has established partnerships with disability groups to provide opportunities for diverse volunteers to learn new skills and education providers to offer students the chance to complete their community service through placements and gain valuable experience.
'' Being 100% volunteer powered we are THRILLED and humbled to be awarded the “Volunteer Team of the Year” award at the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards this morning.
Thank you to all our amazing volunteers who made this possible - you are all awesome and we couldn’t do what we do the feed people in need without your dedication, generosity, and kindness. '' the grop has stated
Disability and mental health advocate Clementine Hartson has been named the 2022 Volunteer of the Year.
ProjectKindness founder, and disability and mental health advocate Clementine Hartson has been named 2022 NSW Volunteer of the Year for her drive to make a difference to the lives of so many.
Minister for Families and Communities and Minister for Disability Services Natasha Maclaren-Jones said that volunteers make a true difference to people’s lives and bring communities together.
“I congratulate Clementine who is an incredible young woman and a very deserving recipient of this year’s award,” Mrs Maclaren-Jones said.
“She is not only bringing joy to the lives of people doing it tough across NSW, but is inspiring others to truly be the change they want to see in our communities.”
Ms Hartson established ProjectKindness to collect and distribute thousands of food hampers, boxes of nappies and clothing to those in need.
Her volunteering work connects people with community services and other volunteers, providing much needed support.
The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards are an annual program run by The Centre for Volunteering and supported by the NSW Government.
The NSW 2022 Volunteer of the Year Award recipients are:
- Volunteer of the Year and Adult Volunteer of the Year: Clementine Hartson
- Young Volunteer of the Year: Rose Lewis
- Senior Volunteer of the Year: Joy Rappo
- Volunteer Team of the Year: One Meal Northern Beaches Co-op volunteers
- Not-for-Profit Voluntary Governance Award: The Australian Wildlife Society’s Board of Directors
- Volunteer Leader of the Year: Amar Singh from Turbans4Australia
The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said that the awards have recognised volunteers across NSW who are providing support in every part of our lives.
“These awards shine a a light on an incredible group of people who give so much of their lives to making our communities better places,” Ms Rygate said.
FUNDRAISING NIGHT For The Benefit Of JOHN PERRY (Pin)
TO BE HELD AT NORTH NARRABEEN SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB
SATURDAY 14TH JANUARY 2023 FROM 5PM
John is a member of North Narrabeen Surf Life Saving Club, Narrabeen Sharks Rugby League Club, Narrabeen Amateur Swimming Club and North Narrabeen Shivering Sharks Winter Swimming Club. He has been a tireless worker for these clubs over the years and was recently diagnosed with Myelofibrosis which is basically Cancer of the Bone Marrow.
John is waiting for a bone marrow transplant, unable to work and is looking at huge medical costs as well as providing for his wife and two children. Any donation to assist for the night’s fundraiser would be gratefully appreciated.
Thank you!
IRobert Kaines
Deputy President
0418 642 504
Palm Beach Golf Club Christmas - New Years Hours
Our new summer hours start this week. From December 14th we are open for dinner Wednesdays to Saturdays from 5.30pm. We are open everyday throughout the festive season except for Christmas Day and New Years Eve dinner.
Zonta NB's Pittwater International Women's Day Breakfast 2023 Speaker: Samantha Hollier-James
Samantha co-founded Tour de Cure in May 2007. Tour de Cure is one of Australia’s most significant cancer research funds behind the Australian Government.
Since 2007 Tour de Cure has raised over $95 Million, which has funded 647 Australian Cancer Research, Support and Prevention Projects resulting in an incredible 96 major cancer breakthroughs. Tour de Cure has also engaged over 175,000 Australian school children with their "Be fit, Be healthy, Be happy" cancer awareness message.
Samantha’s professional work in Media was recognised through winning the B&T Women in Media "People's Choice" Award in 2019. Samantha also works tirelessly to nurture and support young leaders as a volunteer mentor for the past decade. She is passionate about helping people achieve their goals, whatever they may be.
Join us to hear from Samantha and how we should;
“never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world, indeed it is the only thing that ever has.” - Margaret Mead
Watch for the full details, including booking link, on the flyer in early January
Christmas Gifts
Would you like to consider giving a gift to one of the Services we support?
Possible suggestions are:
- A basket of goodies for a woman at the Manly Shelter,
- Vouchers for mums who were in Refuge during Covid and now supporting, each other while living in transitional housing,
- Christmas gifts for the children,
- Gift cards for the women to use as needed.
- A bag of non perishable food for distribution by Community Northern Beaches.
If you would like more details please get in touch. Email: zontanb@gmail.com
Why Zonta?
We believe in making the world a better place by empowering women.
We find joy in doing this in a supportive community of like-minded professionals from diverse countries and cultures.
Zonta stands for women’s rights. We advocate for equality, education and an end to child marriage and gender-based violence.
Zonta expands opportunities for women and girls through our international education programs and service projects.
We shall not rest until women’s rights are recognized as human rights.
Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and festive holiday season!
Monika's Doggie Rescue: Pets Of The Week
Soldier
12yo - Mini Poodle X
Soldier a gentle mature poodle was handed in at the pound with the worst mouth of dental disease the pound staff had ever seen . He could not eat as he was in so much pain. He had a full mouth extraction and has a couple of gum grafts. Whilst he was under our vets also gave him a short clip as his coat was so matted and urine soaked. This little boy is just so happy now, tucking into his soft cooked chicken. It was a big ordeal for him but he has recovered well, and his bloods suggest he is in good health. He is enjoying the company of other small dogs and a little TLC. Soldier is now looking for a retirement home with a family who understand poodles and give him the spoiling he deserves. He has separation anxiety and is looking for a family where someone is around and suits apartment living. He has a non-shedding coat that needs regular clipping and weighs 5.3kg. If you would like to support him on his journey :https://www.facebook.com/donate/816509176246848/
All our dogs come desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DoggieRescue Vet. His adoption fee is $400. To find out more call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email Monika@DoggieRescue.com. RON R251000024
Marie
Dwarf Rabbit - 5yo
Marie, an adult Dwarf X is a sweet easy to handle girl who came to our clinic as a stray. She has been with other rabbits in the past but also happy to be a single bunny. She is desexed, vaccinated and chipped. She is about 4 years and weighs 2.5kg. She is social with other rabbits. She comes desexed, vaccinated and microchipped. Her adoption fee is $150. To find out more call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email Monika@DoggieRescue.com. RON R251000024
Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Stalls
The Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary members are having a stall at Pittwater Place on the first Saturday of every month from 9am to 3pm selling knitting for babies and children, beanies, bedsocks and scarves for oldies, sewing items, craft and jams, raising funds for the rehabilitation and palliative care units.
Mona Vale Residents Association
Mona Vale Residents Association is a community group encouraging involvement on important matters within the Mona Vale area.
Email: mvrasydney@gmail.com
Facebook page: www.facebook.com/monavaleresidents
Newport Residents Association: Christmas Get-Together 2022
Join us on Tuesday 20th December, 7.00pm Newport Community Hall
The final 2022 meeting of the Newport Residents Association will be our Christmas get-together on Tuesday 20th December 2022 at the Newport Community Hall (The Boulevarde, next to the Bowling Club) at 7.00pm. There will be no formal meeting, just a community opportunity to celebrate a testing but very active year – and enjoy each other’s company.
Drinks and nibbles will be supplied by NRA members.
(Members remember to bring a plate).
Members, you are welcome to bring a guest or Newport friend.
All visitors welcome.
Pittwater Probus Club Celebrates 40th Anniversary
50 members and partners of Pittwater Mens Probus celebrated the club’s 40th birthday on Tuesday December 13th at Mona Vale Surf Club. Local Member, Rob Stokes proposed the toast to the club prior to the ceremonial cutting of the cake.
The inaugural meeting was attended by 12 members on Tuesday 13th January 1981 at Pittwater RSL Club and was established as a men’s club which it is today. The first President was George R Cockburn. He and his fellow members ran the club very formally with the Minutes of Meeting duly handwritten into the minute book.
For over 20 years the club held its meetings at the Mona Vale Golf Club, but Covid put an end to that. The club now enjoys the beautiful setting of the new Mona Vale Surf Club for its monthly meetings.
The club today is quite different in how it functions compared to those early days but continues to maintain an environment of fun, friendship and fellowship first established back in 1981. It has a dedicated activity program with a recent group trip to Orange visiting all the local landmarks.
The club is actively seeking new members. If interested, please contact Terry Larke on 0412 220 820 or attend a meeting at 10 00 am on the second Tuesday of the month at Mona Vale Surf Club. You will be made welcome.
Geoff Sheppard
President, Pittwater Probus Club
Photos: Michael Mannington OAM, Community Photography
Avalon Council Customer Service Office: Council Meeting December 2022 Item Recommends Reducing Service To 2 Days A Week
An Item on the last Meeting for Council on Tuesday recommends the closure of the Avalon Beach Council office due to lack of use.
The documents state there has been no formal community consultation on operating hours of the Customer Contact Centre or alternative uses. Council staff have met with local resident associations to present the data collected on the use of the service by the local community. Some services provided at the Avalon Customer Contact Centre are already provided at the local Post Office or other nearby businesses.
Council staffs’ investigation into this finds that based on the evidence gathered and trend data across Council, there is insufficient demand to justify the current operating hours and costs. It is recommended that operating hours be reduced to 2 days per week for a maximum period of 6 months.
Staff have found that since 2016 and the formalising of a Northern Beaches Council, the culture of Customer Service has changed significantly. Businesses generally have been moving to digital solutions for service and online requests and payments now provide alternative access for customers.
The Avalon Customer Contact Centre when operating at full capacity (ie not closed at lunch) is required to be staffed by 3 full time equivalent positions in order to ensure adequate coverage for cash handling and Workplace Health and Safety considerations. The Avalon Customer Contact Centre operates at a cost of approximately $270,000 per annum chiefly in staffing costs.
The Avalon Recreation Centre is classified as a “District” sized community facility and includes one full size indoor multipurpose Court, five community rooms for hire and associated public toilets.
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Update: Avalon Customer Service Centre To Stay Open 5 Days A Week
Dear APA Members and Friends,
Following our email asking you to let Council know you want the Council's Customer Service Centre to remain open 5 days a week, we are happy to tell that Council voted yesterday to keep the Centre open as requested and has undertaken to better advertise its existence and the services it offers.
Thank you to the many people who quickly emailed Council to object to the Centre closing three days a week.
Where is this Centre? at the Avalon Recreation Centre, the entry to the left of the main entrance of the Centre.
We need to make use of this Centre. Got a peeling car parking sticker? Take it there to have it replaced.
We have previously asked that major DAs, and council planned works, eg the shared zone project, be displayed in the window for the public's information.
Management Committee
AVALON PRESERVATION TRUST
Incorporated as AVALON PRESERVATION ASSOCIATION
The following Motion re reducing hours for the Avalon Beach NBC Service centre was moved by Cr.s Korzy and De Luca and passed.
Cr Korzy / Cr De Luca
That:
1. The CEO defers and reviews this matter until after road and civil works towards the Avalon Shared Spaces project are complete or the March 2023 council meeting - whichever is later.
2. Staff immediately improve signposting for the Avalon Customer Contact Centre and inform residents that it is operational via social media and local print media.
3. Staff investigate ways of improving the centre, including establishment of a tourist information bureau or other services.
Developers The Only Winners From Planning Reforms States LGNSW
December 12, 2022
Property developers have been gifted an early Christmas present after the NSW Government announced it would sideline councils and communities from assessing new major housing developments.
Under the Rezoning Pathways Program, developers can nominate rezoning proposals for more than 1,000 dwellings on sites in metropolitan NSW and at least 300 dwellings in regional NSW. These proposals would bypass councils and instead be assessed by the state’s planning department.
Despite the major implications of the scheme, the NSW Government has failed to detail how local provisions will be considered when these residential developments are assessed and what community consultation, if any, will occur.
LGNSW President Darriea Turley AM said the new program was the latest example of the NSW Government cosying up to property developers at the expense of councils and the communities they represent.
“The changes that are being proposed here would affect every council area in the state. It also brings into question what, if any, consideration will be given to existing local plans and policies when major housing developments are being assessed," Cr Turley said.
“By removing council input and community consultation on these major developments, the government is essentially removing the safeguards that protect communities from inappropriate and ad hoc development.”
Cr Turley questioned whether the NSW Government was being genuine when it badged the new program as a way of unlocking new homes faster.
“This government is quick to blame delays on councils. Yet it is well established that the overwhelming cause of delays stem from infrastructure delivery issues and other hold ups from a multitude of government agencies,” Cr Turley said.
“A few years ago, the NSW Government took development application powers off Sydney councils and introduced mandatory local planning panels. The argument was that councillors should focus on strategic planning rather than on individual development applications.
“Now with this latest announcement, the government is coming after the strategic planning as well.
“Councils are best placed to make planning decisions in the interests of their community. Sidelining our sector from this critical role will only benefit developers and further degrades the community from having any say about what developments occur in their areas.”
Children Injured After Fireworks Land In Crowd At Allambie Heights Christmas Carols
Monday December 12, 2022
Two children have been injured after fireworks landed in the crowd at a Christmas Carols event at Allambie Heights last night.
An 11-year-old boy suffered a chest injury and was taken to Royal North Shore Hospital, while an eight-year-old girl was taken to hospital for a wrist injury.
Around 9.30pm yesterday Christmas celebrations at Allambie Heights Oval in Sydney’s Northern Beaches turned to chaos when the fireworks turned into the watching crowd.
Along with the two children were taken to hospital several others were treated by paramedics.
Reports so far indicate there was a malfunction in the fireworks.
Police are at the oval this morning and a criminal investigating has commenced.
Sharp Increase In Dog Attacks On Posties: Nearly 1000 In Last 5 Months
December 12, 2022
Australia Post urges dog owners to safely secure pets.
Nearly 1,000 Australia Post workers have been attacked by household dogs over the past five months, sparking an urgent plea by the postal service for dog owners to secure their pets.
In a concerning trend, the number of dog-related incidents recorded by Australia Post has increased more than 55 per cent, with an average of almost 7 incidents reported each day since July 2022, compared to an average of just over 4 per day in the 2021/22 financial year.
In the last five months alone, 986 incidents have been reported, compared to 1587 for the full 2021/22 financial year. Some of these attacks can lead to severe and debilitating injuries with many requiring medical treatment.
NSW recorded the highest number of dog-related incidents with 351 since 1 July, followed by QLD with 281 and WA with 183. Within these states areas with the highest number of dog- related incidents include the Gold Coast and Darra in QLD, Midland in WA as well as Warrabrook, Strathfield and Tamworth in NSW.
Australia Post Executive General Manager People and Culture Susan Davies said the data shows an alarming upwards trend in the number of dog-related incidents as well as an increase in the severity of injuries sustained.
“As we head into the busiest delivery time of the year, we want to ensure that our Posties are protected. Dogs are territorial by nature, so even the sweetest dog can be a danger to our Posties. We’ve had Posties sustain a range of injuries including puncture wounds, lacerations, scratches and bites. Sadly, team members have also suffered from long-term psychological impacts following an attack.
“Our Posties are just trying to do their job and if they feel that a situation is unsafe when they approach a home, they will not make the delivery. Our teams’ safety has to come first so we really want to stress the need for people to secure their dogs, especially if they are expecting a delivery.”
RSPCA NSW Senior Manager of Animal Behaviour, Georgie Caspar said there are many steps we can take as dog owners to help keep our pets safe and comfortable during a home delivery.
“Providing an area to contain your dog, and giving them opportunities to occupy themselves with treats, chews and toys is not only great for their mind and body but is also an effective distraction method. Lick mats, snuffle mats and interactive puzzle feeders are a few examples of enrichment tools you can try when you know a parcel is on the way,” said RSPCA NSW Senior Manager of Animal Behaviour, Georgie Caspar.
Other tips for residents to help keep our posties safe include:
- Be careful when opening your front door to ensure that your dog doesn’t run out from behind you. Keeping them safely in another room when you answer the door is a great way to prevent this.
- Keep your side gate securely closed when your dog is in the backyard.
“All dogs may experience stress, fear, anxiety, or frustration in certain situations and contexts. It is important to remember that like people, animals have different personalities and individual needs. If you find that your pet is continuously stressed by the presence of a Postie and you’re not sure how to help them, we recommend engaging the services of a qualified behavioural trainer that uses force-free and reward-based approaches, or a veterinary behaviourist. We understand that behavioural issues can be distressing, and our team are always here to provide guidance and support,” added Ms Caspar.
The front gate/letterbox, footpath and front door are the most common locations where dog incidents occur.“In addition to providing our Posties with training on how to avoid dog attacks we also work closely with local councils and council rangers to ensure all incidents are reported and appropriately managed,” added Ms Davies.
Church Point Ferry Fares 2023
Pensioner and Senior Residents travel for FREE!
Our Fares are set by IPART the Independent Pricings and Review Tribunal of NSW.
They have determined that the prices for 2023 as below;
“Our annual review of the CPI and fuel costs for private ferry fares for 2023 found that:
- The change in the CPI applicable to updating the current maximum fare is 7.0%, based on the quarter-on-quarter change in the CPI as at September 2022. This change was sufficient to have an impact on the maximum fare.
- Diesel prices increased by 44% in the 12 months to September 2022. “
We are keeping the 13 trip tickets heavily discounted – definitely the way to travel.
As a result, our new fare schedule, from 1st January 2023, is as follows:
Adult
Single $11.10
Return $17.00
13 Pass $69.00 $5.31 a trip
Concession/Child
Single
$5.55
Return $11.00
13 Pass $53.00
$4.08 a trip
Child under 5 FREE
Green 13 Pass $70.00
Offset all carbon for 8¢ per trip
PET (Offshore resident only)
FREE
If you are eligible for a pensioner or senior citizens concession card and live on Scotland Island or the Western Foreshores then you are also eligible for an all-day trip ticket for free.
Manly Life Saving Club: Share Your Vision On Council's Ideas Board
Council are proposing to renew Manly Life Saving Club to provide a facility that meets the needs of all users now and into the future.
They are working with the appointed design consultant TERROIR to develop the proposed scope of works which will be determined by the available funding (once finalised).
Council want to talk to the community again about their vision for the Club building and surrounding community facilities. If you haven't had a chance to share your thoughts on shaping the future priorities for this iconic club, now is the time to have your say.
See their ideas board here: https://yoursay.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/Manly_Life_Saving_Club
Following this engagement period, concept designs will be developed in collaboration with their appointed Community Working Group, and with feedback from the community and relevant stakeholders.
Brookvale Structure Plan: Revised Draft On Public Exhibition
Council's vision for Brookvale includes additional dwellings and building height increases in some areas of up to 12 storeys, a new town square of a minimum 5,000 square metres with areas of open space adjacent to the B-line stop, a Pittwater Road Corridor with buildings of between 7-8 storeys with ground-level double-height spaces supporting showrooms, entertainment, night-time economy, and creative maker spaces with residential dwellings above, street upgrades, planting more trees, and introducing cycleways.
A community drop-in session and a business briefing will be held in February 2023 to talk to the project team and hear more about the revised structure plan.
Should the revised draft Brookvale Structure Plan be adopted by Council, the next phases of work to implement the Brookvale Structure Plan will include preparation of a Planning Proposal and supporting technical studies to amend the Local Environmental Plan (LEP), a 7.11 Development Contributions Plan (to levy development for community services and infrastructure), amendments to Council’s Affordable Housing Contributions Scheme, and an area-specific Development Control Plan setting out detailed planning and design guidelines to support the LEP controls. Depending on resourcing, this work could take one to two years to complete.
To read the Revised draft Brookvale Structure Plan visit: yoursay.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/brookvale-structure-plan
Image - The new 'town square' (B-line stop): after
New Year's Eve At Dee Why; Road Closure
Roads at Dee Why Beach will be closed from 4pm to 10pm:
- Howard Ave between The Strand and Clyde Road and
- The Strand between Oaks Ave and Dee Why Pde.
Access will be maintained for residents on Howard Ave only.
Special event clearways will be effect on the western side of The Strand between Oaks Ave and Dee Why Pde from 12pm midday until 10pm.
Clearways are strict no parking zones for all vehicle types, and apply even to local residents and businesses with parking permits or TfNSW Mobility Scheme permit holders. If your vehicle is towed, you can search your vehicle registration at the Find My Car website to find its new location, or alternatively call 132 701 to speak to an operator.
New Year's Eve At Manly: Road Closures
Roads around Manly wharf will be closed from 5pm to 10:30pm including sections of Belgrave St, Eustace St, Gilbert St, Wentworth St, West Promenade, East and West Esplanade and Victoria Pde.
Local access will be maintained for Victoria Pde and Wentworth St residents.
Special event clearways will be in effect on sections of East and West Esplanade, Belgrave St, Pittwater Rd and West Promenade between 1pm and 10pm.
Clearways are strict no parking zones for all vehicle types, and apply even to local residents and businesses with parking permits or TfNSW Mobility Scheme permit holders. If your vehicle is towed, you can search your vehicle registration at the Find My Car website to find its new location, or alternatively call 132 701 to speak to an operator.
Nominations Open For The 2023 Australian Surfing Awards
The 39th Australian Surfing Awards are just a few months away and you can have your say on who will pick up one of the coveted titles with nominations now open.
This year there are 17 categories including the new addition of Surf School of the Year.
Awards are presented to those who have made a significant contribution to the development of surfing in Australia from Male Surfer of the Year to Female Surfer of the Year, Coach of the Year, Surf Culture and Indigenous Surfing Community Celebration.
If you love big waves you can vote for the Heavy Water Award or even submit a photo or video for the Surf Photo of the Year and Surf Video of the Year categories and it's easy using our online form.
The event will also see an athlete inducted into Surfing Australia’s Hall of Fame. Lat year Joel Parkinson was added to the prestigious list joining other world-class Aussie athletes Stephanie Gilmore, Julian Wilson, Owen Wright, Mick Fanning and Sally Fitzgibbons.
Surfing Australia CEO, Chris Mater said: “It has been an incredible year for our surfers & community, and we look forward to celebrating their achievements at the Australian Surfing Awards. This is a chance to recognise not only our top athletes but also the broad spectrum of individuals and organisations who are involved in the sport through events, business, media, photography, movies, clubs, travel, administration or pioneering new initiatives.”
Nominations close on December 18, 2022.
The 17 categories are:
Male Surfer of the Year
Harvey Norman Female Surfer of the Year
Male Para Surfer of the Year
Female Para Surfer of the Year
Griffith University Male Rising Star Award (18 & Under)
Griffith University Female Rising Star Award (18 & Under)
Heavy Water Award
Reef Tip Greater Good Award
Peter Troy Lifetime Achievement Award
Coach of the Year Award
Surf School of the Year Award
Simon Anderson Club Award
Acciona Innovation Award
Surf Culture Award
Indigenous Surfing Community Celebration Award
Surf Photo of the Year
Surf Video of the Year
Nominate here: https://australiansurfingawards.com
Become A Volunteer Radio Operator: MRNSW
Are you looking for a new challenge? With the busy summer boating season coming up Marine Rescue NSW units up and down the coast want to hear from you!
And if you live in Sydney, our State Communications Centre in Belrose is especially keen to hear from you, just drop a line to: base.sydney@marinerescuensw.com.au
Prior radio and boating experience is not required, and as a Radio Operator you'll play a vital role in helping to keep our waterways safer.
If you want to take the plunge and join a dedicated volunteer team helping to save lives on our waterways, then go here for more information:
www.marinerescuensw.com.au/become-a-volunteer/ or contact your local Marine Rescue NSW unit directly.
Volunteers Needed: Meals On Wheels
Meals on Wheels have lost a lot of volunteers in the last few months due to COVID regulations etc. so they are desperate for some new people on the roster.
The local service covers all the way from Manly Vale up to Palm Beach, so a run takes around 60-90mins.
You leave from and return to the warehouse in Bassett Street, Mona Vale.
You don’t need to sign on to permanent shifts, even once a month would help them out greatly.
All drivers need an unrestricted license, must be fully vaccinated and will require a volunteer police check.
If you are able to assist please call Milly on 9457 3900 or email
NBeachesVolunteer@kmow.org.au and she can give you more info and send you through training paperwork.
Catherine Park Scotland Island: Draft Landscape Improvements Plan
Council have been working closely with key internal and external stakeholders, and Scotland Island Residents Association (SIRA), to prepare a draft landscape improvements plan that considers all issues and recommendations raised.
The aim is to enhance the park’s function and amenity whilst maintaining the open space landscape character by:
- improving the amenity and management of existing facilities
- improving the arrival experience to Catherine Park
- managing vehicles (buggies) to improve pedestrian access & safety
- managing water craft storage and improving access to water
- improving pedestrian connections to the park and between existing community buildings to provide a more cohesive outdoor community space
- enhancing existing foreshore and open grassed areas to cater for a range of recreational activities and community events
- investigating and implementing appropriate treatments to address drainage issues in the park
View the concept plans HERE
Timeline for works
- Funding is available to undertake the playground renewal in the 2023-24 financial year.
- Potential improvement works will be funded through a budget bid and key aspects of the design will be delivered in stages based community feedback on priority improvements
- Other potential improvement works will be prioritised and delivered based on:
- community feedback
- available funding in future Capital Works Programs
- grant opportunities
- alignment with other related works.
Feedback invited
Your feedback will help Council understand what is important to the park's users. View the draft concept plans below and have your say by:
- completing the comment form here
- emailing council@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au
- writing to council marked ‘Catherine Park, Scotland Island - Draft Landscape Improvements Plan’, Northern Beaches Council, PO Box 82 Manly NSW 1655.
Comments close December 18 2022
All comments will be treated as public documents and made available on request.
This Issue:
Profile of the Week David MadewBilgola SLSC Member is also one of the Pittwater Swim Series committee members. With Summer now commenced, it's a good time to look into what's coming up with the Pittwater Swim Series, after two years of weather and Covid postponements, and catch-up with a Bilgola SLSC member - that wonderful little beach tucked away below the Bends.
The Bilgola Surf Life Saving Club was formed in the summer of 1949 when a small band of locals commenced patrols on Bilgola Beach. In 2019 the Bilgola SLSC celebrated 70 years of service to the local community. Bilgola Beach is nestled in between Avalon and Newport Beach.
Our volunteers are committed to keeping the beach safe and serving our community. We patrol Bilgola beach on weekends and public holidays during the Patrol season, which starts in September and goes through to late April.
Every summer, Bilgola is home to several major surf sports events, including the Billy Swim and the Bilgola Boat Carnival. We have a thriving nippers community and a genuine family friendly atmosphere.
The Bilgola SLSC clubhouse is a the focal point for our club and local SLSC community. The facilities include new and upgraded toilets and showers, a gymnasium, BBQ areas and glazed undercover areas. It has a spacious hall and bar area for club training, meetings and private functions, as well as junior clubrooms and storage for our lifesaving and competition equipment. The clubhouse has a fulltime caretaker onsite.
Visit Bilgola SLSC: bilgolaslsc.org.au
This week, a chat with Mr. Madew about all things swimming and Bilgola.
Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: December 1, 2022
Click on Logo to access the latest PON:
To contact Roy: editor@scotlandisland.org.au
2022-2023 Issues Of Pittwater Online News: Cut Off Time For End Of Year Wrap - Holiday Notices
Our last Issue for 2022 will be published Sunday December 11th.
Our first Issue for 2023 will be published Sunday January 15th.
Staff will still be meeting commitments for all community events and meetings where attendance/ photography/reports have been requested, however, those that fall between these dates will run in the first Issue for 2023.
If you have Notices, Events or Reports, End of Year Messages or add-ins to the end of year 'wrap' or Pictures of the Year page that you want to run in the last Issue for this year, please get them in no later than 9am Saturday December 10th.
Thank you very much.
Banishing Boredom Adds Up For Bilgola Plateau Public School Teacher Julia Priest
From subtracting boredom in maths classes to the search for the next David Attenborough, nine dedicated NSW public school teachers have won scholarships to explore a passion project.
The 2023 Premier’s Teacher Scholarships were announced on November 30th 2022, offering 14 scholarships of up to $15,000.
Among the nine public school winners was Bilgola Plateau Public School teacher Julia Priest who received the Premier’s University of Sydney Mathematics Scholarship.
Ms Priest said winning her scholarship was “a golden opportunity” to banish boredom from the maths classroom.
The day a talented student told her maths was dull was a turning point for the passionate primary teacher.
Intrigued, at his response, Ms Priest then surveyed three Year Five classes at the school.
“To my horror, he was not alone,” she said.
Students were doing well at maths but did not necessarily love it.
If they were doing well without loving the subject, what could they do with passion?
Now, thanks to the $15,000 NSW Premier’s University of Sydney Mathematics Scholarship Ms Priest is determined to “banish boredom from the primary mathematics classroom by giving students a voice”.
She will visit schools with great results or incredible growth in maths to document innovative strategies and hear the thoughts of children.
Ms Priest has an honours degree in science and an MBA and worked in the corporate sector as a strategic planning consultant, before a decade ago retraining as a teacher.
“I wanted to do something for the community,” she said.
“Primary teaching was perfect because I love maths, science, English and art and I can do all that.”
Ms Priest said the scholarship was “a golden opportunity”.
“I was thrilled and excited and leaping around.”
NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet said the scholarships provided recipients with the funds to support a five-week study tour.
“These scholarships provide teachers with the unique opportunity to explore their field of expertise by visiting some of Australia’s highly acclaimed schools and centres for teaching and learning,” Mr Perrottet said.
“This is an amazing opportunity that can really transform a teacher’s professional career by broadening their knowledge and expanding their horizons.”
Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said the scholarships helped enrich the learning experiences of students.
“It’s great news for our students, who benefit from the new knowledge, teaching methods and skills these teachers bring back to their classrooms,” Ms Mitchell said.
“By providing our best teachers the opportunity to become world experts in education, we are enriching the learning experiences of our students.”
The public school recipients were:
Premier’s Anika Foundation Youth Depression Awareness Scholarships
- Brianne Balfoort, Kotara School for Specific Purpose
- Margaret Tang, Putney Public School
Premier’s Geography Scholarship
- Jaye Dunn, Asquith Girls High School
Premier’s Hicksons Lawyers Health Education and Wellbeing Scholarship
- Ross Montague, Picnic Point High School
Premier’s NESA Quality Teaching Scholarship
- Jenny Perry, Campbelltown Performing Arts High School
Premier’s Teachers Mutual Bank Aboriginal Education Scholarship
- Michelle-Gai Brown, Vincentia High School
Premier’s University of Sydney Mathematics Scholarship
- Julia Priest, Bilgola Plateau Public School
Photo: Golden opportunity: Bilgola Plateau Public School teacher Julia Priest, left, and principal Cindy Gardiner at the awards ceremony.
Photo: Premier Dominic Perrottet, Education Minister Sarah Mitchell and NSW Department of Education Secretary Georgina Harrisson with the 2023 scholarship recipients.
VALE Jason Keith Feehely
Born August 6th, 1944Keith 's Service will be held at 10-30am on Monday 5th December at the Maria Regina Catholic Church, Central Rd, Avalon.
Our sincere condolences to all of Keith’s family and friends. He will be much missed by many of us.
Born August 6th, 1944
Keith 's Service will be held at 10-30am on Monday 5th December at the Maria Regina Catholic Church, Central Rd, Avalon.
Our sincere condolences to all of Keith’s family and friends. He will be much missed by many of us.
VALE Clive Imber
Local sailor Clive Imber, who made a single-handed double crossing of the Atlantic when he was in his late sixties, has died. He was 92.
A well-known figure on Pittwater at the helm of his dark blue 23ft gaff-rigged cutter Rummager 2 he also crewed regularly with friends and was a member of the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club and then Royal Motor Yacht Club.
Imber had a colourful past and, as a member of the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery, fought in the Korean War. In civilian life his sporting activity was as joint master and huntsman of the Norfolk Beagles. Hunting was banned when he was in his fifties and, desperate for something new, he enquired about lessons at a little local sailing club. After his first session, where he turned up wearing a Barbour jacket and green wellies, he was hooked.
It was not long before he had qualified for an Ocean Yachtmaster Certificate and bought his first boat, a Falmouth Bass, a South Coast One Design. Then he had a Vancouver 34 sloop built at Itchenor, West Sussex, to fulfil his dream of sailing the Atlantic single-handed – a feat which he achieved at the age of 66 in 1996.
He departed Falmouth and began the Atlantic crossing from the Canary Islands along the traditional trade winds route. He met a solitary Russian cargo ship and the master delighted him by calling him ‘one of us, a man of the sea’. His partner of many years, Sheila joined him in Antigua and they cruised the Caribbean for many weeks. When told the cost of shipping the boat back, he decided the only option was to sail Rummager back himself.
On the return voyage he put into the Azores and in time-honoured tradition painted the name of his boat on the harbour wall (pictured).
Sheila joined him unexpectedly for a brief holiday before he set sail again for England, making final landfall just before his 68th birthday and completing a total 8,596 nautical miles on the round trip.
Imber was sailing up to a year ago when he reluctantly sold Rummager 2, the boat he had had shipped to Australia in a container when he settled here in 2005.
Determined to keep fit, he spent time on his rowing machine each day and was fit enough to walk to the car when finally admitted to Northern Beaches Hospital, where he died peacefully a few days later.
As he wished, his ashes have been scattered out to sea off Barrenjoey and he asked for any donations to be sent to the Royal National Lifeboat Institute – a volunteer organisation whose services he was thankful never to have needed.
Local sailor Clive Imber, who made a single-handed double crossing of the Atlantic when he was in his late sixties, has died. He was 92.
A well-known figure on Pittwater at the helm of his dark blue 23ft gaff-rigged cutter Rummager 2 he also crewed regularly with friends and was a member of the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club and then Royal Motor Yacht Club.
Imber had a colourful past and, as a member of the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery, fought in the Korean War. In civilian life his sporting activity was as joint master and huntsman of the Norfolk Beagles. Hunting was banned when he was in his fifties and, desperate for something new, he enquired about lessons at a little local sailing club. After his first session, where he turned up wearing a Barbour jacket and green wellies, he was hooked.
It was not long before he had qualified for an Ocean Yachtmaster Certificate and bought his first boat, a Falmouth Bass, a South Coast One Design. Then he had a Vancouver 34 sloop built at Itchenor, West Sussex, to fulfil his dream of sailing the Atlantic single-handed – a feat which he achieved at the age of 66 in 1996.
He departed Falmouth and began the Atlantic crossing from the Canary Islands along the traditional trade winds route. He met a solitary Russian cargo ship and the master delighted him by calling him ‘one of us, a man of the sea’. His partner of many years, Sheila joined him in Antigua and they cruised the Caribbean for many weeks. When told the cost of shipping the boat back, he decided the only option was to sail Rummager back himself.
On the return voyage he put into the Azores and in time-honoured tradition painted the name of his boat on the harbour wall (pictured).
Sheila joined him unexpectedly for a brief holiday before he set sail again for England, making final landfall just before his 68th birthday and completing a total 8,596 nautical miles on the round trip.
Imber was sailing up to a year ago when he reluctantly sold Rummager 2, the boat he had had shipped to Australia in a container when he settled here in 2005.
Determined to keep fit, he spent time on his rowing machine each day and was fit enough to walk to the car when finally admitted to Northern Beaches Hospital, where he died peacefully a few days later.
As he wished, his ashes have been scattered out to sea off Barrenjoey and he asked for any donations to be sent to the Royal National Lifeboat Institute – a volunteer organisation whose services he was thankful never to have needed.
Rock Fisherman Dies After Being Pulled From Water At The Blowhole
December 4, 2022A rock fisherman has died after being pulled from the water on the Northern Beaches this morning.
About 10.45am (Sunday 4 December 2022), emergency services were called to Turimetta Headland, Narrabeen, following reports a rock fisherman had fallen into the water.
The man – who was wearing a life vest – was winched from the water by the Westpac Rescue Helicopter and flown ashore to Rat Park, Warriewood.
NSW Ambulance paramedics performed CPR; however, the man died at the scene.
He is yet to be formally identified, although is believed to be aged in his 70’s.
Officers attached Northern Beaches Police Area Command also attended and will now prepare a report for the information of the Coroner.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
December 4, 2022
A rock fisherman has died after being pulled from the water on the Northern Beaches this morning.
About 10.45am (Sunday 4 December 2022), emergency services were called to Turimetta Headland, Narrabeen, following reports a rock fisherman had fallen into the water.
The man – who was wearing a life vest – was winched from the water by the Westpac Rescue Helicopter and flown ashore to Rat Park, Warriewood.
NSW Ambulance paramedics performed CPR; however, the man died at the scene.
He is yet to be formally identified, although is believed to be aged in his 70’s.
Officers attached Northern Beaches Police Area Command also attended and will now prepare a report for the information of the Coroner.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
CABPRA AGM 2022
SAVE THE DATE FOR OUR AGM WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 7 AT AVALON SURF CLUB 6.30PM STARTOUR SPECIAL GUEST WILL BE TOM SHERLOCK Tom has been a councillor with Mosman Council and served a term as deputy mayor. Mosman has a great vision and track record with formulating a strong strategy for protecting their environment, maintaining a village feel and keeping check of building controls that make Mosman a desirable suburb.
With great swathes of Sydney reeling from overdevelopment, come and find out what makes Mosman so successful in their approach.
SAVE THE DATE FOR OUR AGM
WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 7 AT AVALON SURF CLUB 6.30PM START
OUR SPECIAL GUEST WILL BE TOM SHERLOCK
Tom has been a councillor with Mosman Council and served a term as deputy mayor. Mosman has a great vision and track record with formulating a strong strategy for protecting their environment, maintaining a village feel and keeping check of building controls that make Mosman a desirable suburb.
With great swathes of Sydney reeling from overdevelopment, come and find out what makes Mosman so successful in their approach.
Bilgola SLSC Member On Flood Duty
Bilgola SLSC Patrol Captain Craig Poppleton is supporting the NSW SES in Bourke on behalf of SLSNSW this weekend.
Thank you for your Service Craig.
Photo: Bilgola SLSC
Bilgola SLSC Patrol Captain Craig Poppleton is supporting the NSW SES in Bourke on behalf of SLSNSW this weekend.
Thank you for your Service Craig.
Photo: Bilgola SLSC
Congratulations Narrabeen Sports High School Year 10!
The VALID 10 Science results have been finalised and Narrabeen SHS students have excelled.The school average was 97.19 (compared to the State average 92.31) and most excitingly, 91.4% of students experienced growth from VALID 8 (82.3% experienced above expected growth).
Congratulations to everyone. This is an incredible effort from all involved!
The VALID 10 Science results have been finalised and Narrabeen SHS students have excelled.The school average was 97.19 (compared to the State average 92.31) and most excitingly, 91.4% of students experienced growth from VALID 8 (82.3% experienced above expected growth).
Congratulations to everyone. This is an incredible effort from all involved!
Emma Is Surfing For Australia In The USA This Week: Update
Saturday 26th November Emma Dieters and the family headed off to the USA. Below is an update and thank you from Emma.
Hey all,From before we left Australia, I planned to send this photo of us at the departure lounge to say thank you all so very much for helping to send us on this trip of a lifetime. However for the first 5 or so days we have literally been on the go. Not even when in the air did I have a moment to sit and gather thoughts. It’s been an eventful trip so far. Five days in and I am finally getting that moment.
I want to express that every donation made is thoroughly appreciated. This Go Fund Me has taken away the financial stress so we could enjoy this trip together as a family after the few tough years we’ve been through.
I have read through and seen each and every donors name and or business. I acknowledge those people I know, but also those people who I only know through family and friends and even strangers that are now apart of my journey. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. I’ll be surfing for you all as much as I am doing it for Chook, Jacko, Indi and myself. I will be giving my all in the surf comp but no matter the result hope to come away amazing memories with my family and a bunch of new friends.
Feel free to follow along at @em_dieters on IG and/or Emma Dieters on FB. Comp opening ceremony is 4th of December USA (5th December in Oz) day’s following will be the comp… details to come
Em & family
Saturday 26th November Emma Dieters and the family headed off to the USA. Below is an update and thank you from Emma.
Hey all,
From before we left Australia, I planned to send this photo of us at the departure lounge to say thank you all so very much for helping to send us on this trip of a lifetime. However for the first 5 or so days we have literally been on the go. Not even when in the air did I have a moment to sit and gather thoughts. It’s been an eventful trip so far. Five days in and I am finally getting that moment.
I want to express that every donation made is thoroughly appreciated. This Go Fund Me has taken away the financial stress so we could enjoy this trip together as a family after the few tough years we’ve been through.
I have read through and seen each and every donors name and or business. I acknowledge those people I know, but also those people who I only know through family and friends and even strangers that are now apart of my journey. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. I’ll be surfing for you all as much as I am doing it for Chook, Jacko, Indi and myself. I will be giving my all in the surf comp but no matter the result hope to come away amazing memories with my family and a bunch of new friends.
Feel free to follow along at @em_dieters on IG and/or Emma Dieters on FB. Comp opening ceremony is 4th of December USA (5th December in Oz) day’s following will be the comp… details to come
Em & family
ISA World Para Surfing Championship Returns To Pismo Beach, California
ABHS December 2022 Meeting
Our last meeting of the year (traditionally our Christmas meeting) will be held on TUESDAY 13 DECEMBER and as usual it will be held in the Annexe in the north-western corner of Dunbar Park.
This meeting will start at 8pm and after a brief general meeting, up-to-date on local historical goings-on, our guest speaker BILL GODDARD will resume his talk.
For those who were unable to attend our September meeting and AGM, Bill made a great presentation concerning his family’s boatbuilding activities on Sydney Harbour and at Palm Beach from 1917 – the GODDARDS.
Bill’s talk was so interesting and thorough that we had to cut it short to allow for the all-important supper.At our request and with Bill’s enthusiasm he will review his earlier talk with a brief return as a catch-up and then proceed to round-off the presentation with the remaining great photos.
We will also have on display the high-quality camera which belonged to A. J. Small, gifted to the Society by members of the Small family after they visited our exhibition in June.
John has been researching the history of the camera and has revealed some surprises.
There are still some members who haven’t renewed their membership for the coming year and it would be appreciated if you would update your dues.
The list will be available to check your membership status on the night.
Collette and her helpers will have been busy preparing the usual excellent Christmas fare treats and you will be most welcome to join us for supper after the meeting.
For those of you who are unable to attend, the Executive Committee wish you the happiest and healthy festive season and look forward to your company in 2023.
Geoff Searl OAMPresident, Avalon Beach Historical Society
Our last meeting of the year (traditionally our Christmas meeting) will be held on TUESDAY 13 DECEMBER and as usual it will be held in the Annexe in the north-western corner of Dunbar Park.This meeting will start at 8pm and after a brief general meeting, up-to-date on local historical goings-on, our guest speaker BILL GODDARD will resume his talk.
For those who were unable to attend our September meeting and AGM, Bill made a great presentation concerning his family’s boatbuilding activities on Sydney Harbour and at Palm Beach from 1917 – the GODDARDS.
Bill’s talk was so interesting and thorough that we had to cut it short to allow for the all-important supper.
At our request and with Bill’s enthusiasm he will review his earlier talk with a brief return as a catch-up and then proceed to round-off the presentation with the remaining great photos.
We will also have on display the high-quality camera which belonged to A. J. Small, gifted to the Society by members of the Small family after they visited our exhibition in June.
John has been researching the history of the camera and has revealed some surprises.
There are still some members who haven’t renewed their membership for the coming year and it would be appreciated if you would update your dues.
The list will be available to check your membership status on the night.
Collette and her helpers will have been busy preparing the usual excellent Christmas fare treats and you will be most welcome to join us for supper after the meeting.
For those of you who are unable to attend, the Executive Committee wish you the happiest and healthy festive season and look forward to your company in 2023.
Geoff Searl OAM
President, Avalon Beach Historical Society
Life After Covid And 32 Years In Politics: Interview With Brad Hazzard, Wakehurst MP, NSW Health Minister
In Tune With TonyB
In Tune is a radio programme about our local community, hosted by TonyB.
In Tune with community, culture and home-grown music of a diverse range of genres and timelines.
Each week, Tony plays great local music and we chat with guests from local community groups, causes and charities, about how they make a difference. In his next programme on Friday 9th December, Tony will be chatting with Alison Hush, of The Belong Club (a CCNB initiative). Alison will tell us all about the great work that the Belong Club does to facilitate activities that connect people in the community. The programme will also feature a great line up of predominantly home-grown music.
Radio Northern BeachesFridays at 6pmFM 88.7 or 90.3Or live stream at https://www.rnb.org.au/All previous programmes, on demand at https://www.mixcloud.com/InTuneWithTonyB/Please also feel free to like and share our Facebook page (link below) and if you would like to come and chat with us on air about your community group or your music, please feel free to message us via the Facebook page. 
In Tune is a radio programme about our local community, hosted by TonyB.
In Tune with community, culture and home-grown music of a diverse range of genres and timelines.
Each week, Tony plays great local music and we chat with guests from local community groups, causes and charities, about how they make a difference.
In his next programme on Friday 9th December, Tony will be chatting with Alison Hush, of The Belong Club (a CCNB initiative). Alison will tell us all about the great work that the Belong Club does to facilitate activities that connect people in the community. The programme will also feature a great line up of predominantly home-grown music.
Radio Northern Beaches
Fridays at 6pm
FM 88.7 or 90.3
Or live stream at https://www.rnb.org.au/
All previous programmes, on demand at https://www.mixcloud.com/InTuneWithTonyB/
Please also feel free to like and share our Facebook page (link below) and if you would like to come and chat with us on air about your community group or your music, please feel free to message us via the Facebook page.
Zonta NB's Pittwater International Women's Day Breakfast 2023 Speaker: Samantha Hollier-James
Samantha co-founded Tour de Cure in May 2007. Tour de Cure is one of Australia’s most significant cancer research funds behind the Australian Government.
Since 2007 Tour de Cure has raised over $95 Million, which has funded 647 Australian Cancer Research, Support and Prevention Projects resulting in an incredible 96 major cancer breakthroughs. Tour de Cure has also engaged over 175,000 Australian school children with their "Be fit, Be healthy, Be happy" cancer awareness message.
Samantha’s professional work in Media was recognised through winning the B&T Women in Media "People's Choice" Award in 2019. Samantha also works tirelessly to nurture and support young leaders as a volunteer mentor for the past decade. She is passionate about helping people achieve their goals, whatever they may be.
Join us to hear from Samantha and how we should;“never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world, indeed it is the only thing that ever has.” - Margaret Mead
Watch for the full details, including booking link, on the flyer in early January
Christmas GiftsWould you like to consider giving a gift to one of the Services we support?Possible suggestions are: - A basket of goodies for a woman at the Manly Shelter,
- Vouchers for mums who were in Refuge during Covid and now supporting, each other while living in transitional housing,
- Christmas gifts for the children,
- Gift cards for the women to use as needed.
- A bag of non perishable food for distribution by Community Northern Beaches.
If you would like more details please get in touch. Email: zontanb@gmail.com
Why Zonta?We believe in making the world a better place by empowering women. We find joy in doing this in a supportive community of like-minded professionals from diverse countries and cultures.
Zonta stands for women’s rights. We advocate for equality, education and an end to child marriage and gender-based violence.
Zonta expands opportunities for women and girls through our international education programs and service projects.
We shall not rest until women’s rights are recognized as human rights.
Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and festive holiday season!
Samantha co-founded Tour de Cure in May 2007. Tour de Cure is one of Australia’s most significant cancer research funds behind the Australian Government.
Since 2007 Tour de Cure has raised over $95 Million, which has funded 647 Australian Cancer Research, Support and Prevention Projects resulting in an incredible 96 major cancer breakthroughs. Tour de Cure has also engaged over 175,000 Australian school children with their "Be fit, Be healthy, Be happy" cancer awareness message.
Samantha’s professional work in Media was recognised through winning the B&T Women in Media "People's Choice" Award in 2019. Samantha also works tirelessly to nurture and support young leaders as a volunteer mentor for the past decade. She is passionate about helping people achieve their goals, whatever they may be.
Join us to hear from Samantha and how we should;
“never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world, indeed it is the only thing that ever has.” - Margaret Mead
Watch for the full details, including booking link, on the flyer in early January
Christmas Gifts
Would you like to consider giving a gift to one of the Services we support?
Possible suggestions are:
- A basket of goodies for a woman at the Manly Shelter,
- Vouchers for mums who were in Refuge during Covid and now supporting, each other while living in transitional housing,
- Christmas gifts for the children,
- Gift cards for the women to use as needed.
- A bag of non perishable food for distribution by Community Northern Beaches.
If you would like more details please get in touch. Email: zontanb@gmail.com
Why Zonta?
We believe in making the world a better place by empowering women.
We find joy in doing this in a supportive community of like-minded professionals from diverse countries and cultures.
Zonta stands for women’s rights. We advocate for equality, education and an end to child marriage and gender-based violence.
Zonta expands opportunities for women and girls through our international education programs and service projects.
We shall not rest until women’s rights are recognized as human rights.
Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and festive holiday season!
Petition: Wakehurst Parkway Northbound Bike-Track Carpark Entrance After Sports Centre
The entrance to this Council Carpark is not only on 2 blind corners, the speed limit is 80 kilometres. I had a severe car accident on this same corner in 2018, I was hit 130ks head on and almost died. I was coming from Narrabeen, a car lost control around the corner and hit me head on. My son last week had an accident in exactly the same place heading towards Frenchs Forest when someone pulled out of the carpark and turned right towards Narrabeen.
There needs to be something done regarding the dangerous position of this well used carpark. No right turn heading north and no right turn coming out of the carpark could address it in the short term.
Please sign this petition so we can get some action on this and save lives:
Lisa Raicevich
The entrance to this Council Carpark is not only on 2 blind corners, the speed limit is 80 kilometres. I had a severe car accident on this same corner in 2018, I was hit 130ks head on and almost died. I was coming from Narrabeen, a car lost control around the corner and hit me head on. My son last week had an accident in exactly the same place heading towards Frenchs Forest when someone pulled out of the carpark and turned right towards Narrabeen.
There needs to be something done regarding the dangerous position of this well used carpark. No right turn heading north and no right turn coming out of the carpark could address it in the short term.
Please sign this petition so we can get some action on this and save lives:
Lisa Raicevich
Catherine Park Scotland Island: Draft Landscape Improvements Plan
Council have been working closely with key internal and external stakeholders, and Scotland Island Residents Association (SIRA), to prepare a draft landscape improvements plan that considers all issues and recommendations raised.
The aim is to enhance the park’s function and amenity whilst maintaining the open space landscape character by:- improving the amenity and management of existing facilities
- improving the arrival experience to Catherine Park
- managing vehicles (buggies) to improve pedestrian access & safety
- managing water craft storage and improving access to water
- improving pedestrian connections to the park and between existing community buildings to provide a more cohesive outdoor community space
- enhancing existing foreshore and open grassed areas to cater for a range of recreational activities and community events
- investigating and implementing appropriate treatments to address drainage issues in the park
View the concept plans HERE
Timeline for works- Funding is available to undertake the playground renewal in the 2023-24 financial year.
- Potential improvement works will be funded through a budget bid and key aspects of the design will be delivered in stages based community feedback on priority improvements
- Other potential improvement works will be prioritised and delivered based on:
- community feedback
- available funding in future Capital Works Programs
- grant opportunities
- alignment with other related works.
Feedback invitedYour feedback will help Council understand what is important to the park's users. View the draft concept plans below and have your say by:- completing the comment form here
- emailing council@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au
- writing to council marked ‘Catherine Park, Scotland Island - Draft Landscape Improvements Plan’, Northern Beaches Council, PO Box 82 Manly NSW 1655.
Comments close December 18 2022
All comments will be treated as public documents and made available on request.
Council have been working closely with key internal and external stakeholders, and Scotland Island Residents Association (SIRA), to prepare a draft landscape improvements plan that considers all issues and recommendations raised.
The aim is to enhance the park’s function and amenity whilst maintaining the open space landscape character by:
- improving the amenity and management of existing facilities
- improving the arrival experience to Catherine Park
- managing vehicles (buggies) to improve pedestrian access & safety
- managing water craft storage and improving access to water
- improving pedestrian connections to the park and between existing community buildings to provide a more cohesive outdoor community space
- enhancing existing foreshore and open grassed areas to cater for a range of recreational activities and community events
- investigating and implementing appropriate treatments to address drainage issues in the park
View the concept plans HERE
Timeline for works
- Funding is available to undertake the playground renewal in the 2023-24 financial year.
- Potential improvement works will be funded through a budget bid and key aspects of the design will be delivered in stages based community feedback on priority improvements
- Other potential improvement works will be prioritised and delivered based on:
- community feedback
- available funding in future Capital Works Programs
- grant opportunities
- alignment with other related works.
Feedback invited
Your feedback will help Council understand what is important to the park's users. View the draft concept plans below and have your say by:
- completing the comment form here
- emailing council@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au
- writing to council marked ‘Catherine Park, Scotland Island - Draft Landscape Improvements Plan’, Northern Beaches Council, PO Box 82 Manly NSW 1655.
Comments close December 18 2022
All comments will be treated as public documents and made available on request.
Monika's Doggie Rescue: Pets Of The Week
Soldier
12yo - Mini Poodle X
Soldier a gentle mature poodle was handed in at the pound with the worst mouth of dental disease the pound staff had ever seen . He could not eat as he was in so much pain. He had a full mouth extraction and has a couple of gum grafts. Whilst he was under our vets also gave him a short clip as his coat was so matted and urine soaked. This little boy is just so happy now, tucking into his soft cooked chicken. It was a big ordeal for him but he has recovered well, and his bloods suggest he is in good health. He is enjoying the company of other small dogs and a little TLC. Soldier is now looking for a retirement home with a family who understand poodles and give him the spoiling he deserves. He has separation anxiety and is looking for a family where someone is around and suits apartment living. He has a non-shedding coat that needs regular clipping and weighs 5.3kg. If you would like to support him on his journey :https://www.facebook.com/donate/816509176246848/
All our dogs come desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DoggieRescue Vet. His adoption fee is $400. To find out more call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email Monika@DoggieRescue.com. RON R251000024
12yo - Mini Poodle X
Soldier a gentle mature poodle was handed in at the pound with the worst mouth of dental disease the pound staff had ever seen . He could not eat as he was in so much pain. He had a full mouth extraction and has a couple of gum grafts. Whilst he was under our vets also gave him a short clip as his coat was so matted and urine soaked. This little boy is just so happy now, tucking into his soft cooked chicken. It was a big ordeal for him but he has recovered well, and his bloods suggest he is in good health. He is enjoying the company of other small dogs and a little TLC. Soldier is now looking for a retirement home with a family who understand poodles and give him the spoiling he deserves. He has separation anxiety and is looking for a family where someone is around and suits apartment living. He has a non-shedding coat that needs regular clipping and weighs 5.3kg. If you would like to support him on his journey :https://www.facebook.com/donate/816509176246848/
All our dogs come desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DoggieRescue Vet. His adoption fee is $400. To find out more call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email Monika@DoggieRescue.com. RON R251000024
Marie
Dwarf Rabbit - 5yo
Marie, an adult Dwarf X is a sweet easy to handle girl who came to our clinic as a stray. She has been with other rabbits in the past but also happy to be a single bunny. She is desexed, vaccinated and chipped. She is about 4 years and weighs 2.5kg. She is social with other rabbits. She comes desexed, vaccinated and microchipped. Her adoption fee is $150. To find out more call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email Monika@DoggieRescue.com. RON R251000024
Dwarf Rabbit - 5yo
Marie, an adult Dwarf X is a sweet easy to handle girl who came to our clinic as a stray. She has been with other rabbits in the past but also happy to be a single bunny. She is desexed, vaccinated and chipped. She is about 4 years and weighs 2.5kg. She is social with other rabbits. She comes desexed, vaccinated and microchipped. Her adoption fee is $150. To find out more call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email Monika@DoggieRescue.com. RON R251000024
Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Stalls
The Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary members are having a stall at Pittwater Place on the first Saturday of every month from 9am to 3pm selling knitting for babies and children, beanies, bedsocks and scarves for oldies, sewing items, craft and jams, raising funds for the rehabilitation and palliative care units.
The Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary members are having a stall at Pittwater Place on the first Saturday of every month from 9am to 3pm selling knitting for babies and children, beanies, bedsocks and scarves for oldies, sewing items, craft and jams, raising funds for the rehabilitation and palliative care units.
Community Invited To Comment On The Conservation Zones Review And Technical Reports
JP Public Register
Rotary Upper Northern Beaches: Get Involved In Something Positive
At Rotary Upper Northern Beaches, we are always welcoming new members. We find that new members bring new ideas, energy and opportunities. There is something for everyone in Rotary and you can apply your skills for the betterment of our community. This can include anything from cooking a BBQ, to managing a fundraising project, to helping with marketing and social media. You can even get the opportunity to serve on our Board.
We have been quite active in the community over recent and coming weeks, including; - The Beach To Beach Fun Run (held on 28 August) - The Bobbo (Bobbin Head Cycle Classic, held last Sunday 18 September) - Our Annual Charity Golf Day (To be held this Thursday 29 September at Monash Country Club) - Cooking the BBQ at The Annual Australian Pipe Band Championships next weekend 1 & 2 October at Rat Park).
These are just a few examples of our fund raising and community activities.
If you are looking for a way to give back to the community, while meeting some great people and having some fun with it, please come and check us out. Our next meeting is this Wednesday 28 September at The Sands Hotel Narrabeen (6pm Dinner in the bistro for 7pm Rotary meeting upstairs).
If you would like to know more about Rotary and how you can get involved, please contact us on 02 8005 0711 or email contact@rotaryuppernorthernbeaches.org
At Rotary Upper Northern Beaches, we are always welcoming new members. We find that new members bring new ideas, energy and opportunities. There is something for everyone in Rotary and you can apply your skills for the betterment of our community. This can include anything from cooking a BBQ, to managing a fundraising project, to helping with marketing and social media. You can even get the opportunity to serve on our Board.
We have been quite active in the community over recent and coming weeks, including;
- The Beach To Beach Fun Run (held on 28 August)
- The Bobbo (Bobbin Head Cycle Classic, held last Sunday 18 September)
- Our Annual Charity Golf Day (To be held this Thursday 29 September at Monash Country Club)
- Cooking the BBQ at The Annual Australian Pipe Band Championships next weekend 1 & 2 October at Rat Park).
These are just a few examples of our fund raising and community activities.
If you are looking for a way to give back to the community, while meeting some great people and having some fun with it, please come and check us out. Our next meeting is this Wednesday 28 September at The Sands Hotel Narrabeen (6pm Dinner in the bistro for 7pm Rotary meeting upstairs).
If you would like to know more about Rotary and how you can get involved, please contact us on 02 8005 0711 or email contact@rotaryuppernorthernbeaches.org
Please Slow Down: Wildlife Crossing
Phoebe the Swamp Wallaby weighed less than a kilogram when she was orphaned on the roadside after her mother was hit and killed by a vehicle. Fortunately, Phoebe was uninjured, taken to a local vet and raised and then released by Sydney Wildlife volunteer Jane.
While Phoebe was fortunate, other native birds and animals are not so lucky.
So, if you’re returning home after your summer holiday (or just out and about on Australia Day), please slow down - particularly at dawn and dusk and in areas identified with wildlife crossing signs, for your safety and the welfare of our wildlife.
Please contact Sydney Wildlife Rescue on (02) 9413 4300 for advice if you hit a native animal or come across an injured one while driving. It is helpful if you can provide an accurate location or landmark to assist our rescuers who will pouch check marsupials for joeys, so little lives like Phoebe can be saved.
Photo: Phoebe the Swamp Wallaby by JaneNotice by Sydney Wildlife Rescue
Phoebe the Swamp Wallaby weighed less than a kilogram when she was orphaned on the roadside after her mother was hit and killed by a vehicle. Fortunately, Phoebe was uninjured, taken to a local vet and raised and then released by Sydney Wildlife volunteer Jane.
While Phoebe was fortunate, other native birds and animals are not so lucky.
So, if you’re returning home after your summer holiday (or just out and about on Australia Day), please slow down - particularly at dawn and dusk and in areas identified with wildlife crossing signs, for your safety and the welfare of our wildlife.
Please contact Sydney Wildlife Rescue on (02) 9413 4300 for advice if you hit a native animal or come across an injured one while driving. It is helpful if you can provide an accurate location or landmark to assist our rescuers who will pouch check marsupials for joeys, so little lives like Phoebe can be saved.
Photo: Phoebe the Swamp Wallaby by Jane
Notice by Sydney Wildlife Rescue
Community News
Speed Humps On McCarrs Creek Rd: Please Share Wildlife Data
Matthew Cross Wins Liberal Party Preselection For Seat Of Davidson
Natalie Ward lost the preselection 95 to 85 in the safe lower north shore Davidson electorate to the former Premier Mike Baird's staffer, Matt Cross. The vote was held Monday November 28th.
Despite the setback the Liberal Party MLC, and current Minister for Metropolitan Roads and Minister for Women's Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Sexual Violence in the Perrottet ministry, since December 2021, remains a valued member of the Perrott Ministry.
"Natalie is a leading light," the Premier said last week.
"She's a future leader of the Liberal Party and she will continue to make a very strong contribution."
Ms Ward is the second Liberal female MP to lose preselection in less than a week.
The Premier has backed the new candidate for Davidson replacing the outgoing speaker, Jonathan O'Dea.
"Matt Cross is somebody who is a Harvard graduate, somebody who has been a leader when it comes to public health policy," he said.
Mr. Cross is currently the Head of Government Relations and Stakeholder Engagement at The George Institute for Global Health, an independent health and medical research institute. Their mission is to improve the health of millions of people worldwide, with offices in Australia, China, India and the United Kingdom.
He has worked as a Management Consultant for KPMG, been the National Government Relations Manager for the Property Council of Australia, served as a Senior Adviser to NSW Premier, Mike Baird, and NSW Premier, Barry O'Farrell AO and also worked in the Office of NSW Treasurer and Minister for Industrial Relations.
He holds a University of Sydney Master of US Studies, University of Sydney Bachelor of Arts (Honours) and Harvard University Master of Public Administration (MPA).
He is a Director of the St Ives Rotary Club and has been passionate in fundraising and awareness for Lifeline through running the Sydney Marathon (2022), trekking the Kokoda Trail (2017) and running NYC Marathon (2016), as part of a team that raised over $115,000 for suicide prevention.
Mr. Cross posted on one of his social media platforms, after the vote:
''Honoured by the result last night.
Gessika and I look forward to what is ahead.
We look forward to serving our community, sharing Liberal values, and being part of generational change.''
Manly Life Saving Club: Share Your Vision On Council's Ideas Board
Council are holding a drop-in session so that the community can come and talk to the project team and design consultants to hear more about the plans for the Club - Saturday 10 Dec 2022 11:00 am – 01:00 pm: On site drop-in session
Come and talk to them outside the Club and meet the team – everyone is welcome.
Background
Council are proposing to renew Manly Life Saving Club to provide a facility that meets the needs of all users now and into the future.
They are working with the appointed design consultant TERROIR to develop the proposed scope of works which will be determined by the available funding (once finalised).
Council want to talk to the community again about their vision for the Club building and surrounding community facilities. If you haven't had a chance to share your thoughts on shaping the future priorities for this iconic club, now is the time to have your say.
See their ideas board here: https://yoursay.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/Manly_Life_Saving_Club
Following this engagement period, concept designs will be developed in collaboration with their appointed Community Working Group, and with feedback from the community and relevant stakeholders.
Brookvale Structure Plan: Revised Draft On Public Exhibition
Council's vision for Brookvale includes additional dwellings and building height increases in some areas of up to 12 storeys, a new town square of a minimum 5,000 square metres with areas of open space adjacent to the B-line stop, a Pittwater Road Corridor with buildings of between 7-8 storeys with ground-level double-height spaces supporting showrooms, entertainment, night-time economy, and creative maker spaces with residential dwellings above, street upgrades, planting more trees, and introducing cycleways.
A community drop-in session and a business briefing will be held in February 2023 to talk to the project team and hear more about the revised structure plan.
Should the revised draft Brookvale Structure Plan be adopted by Council, the next phases of work to implement the Brookvale Structure Plan will include preparation of a Planning Proposal and supporting technical studies to amend the Local Environmental Plan (LEP), a 7.11 Development Contributions Plan (to levy development for community services and infrastructure), amendments to Council’s Affordable Housing Contributions Scheme, and an area-specific Development Control Plan setting out detailed planning and design guidelines to support the LEP controls. Depending on resourcing, this work could take one to two years to complete.
To read the Revised draft Brookvale Structure Plan visit: yoursay.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/brookvale-structure-plan
Image - The new 'town square' (B-line stop): after
Scheduled Roadwork: Seaforth To Frenchs Forest
Wakehurst Parkway between Judith Street and Aquatic Drive - Sun 27 Nov 2022 to Tue 13 Dec 2022 - 8:00pm to 5:00am; Road closed both directions
Advice: Reduced speed limit (40km/h), Use diversions
Other Advice: Resident access will be maintained. Access for buses and emergency services will be maintained through the work zone at all times.
Diversions - Light vehicles:
Northbound: Frenchs Forest Rd, Sydney Rd, Burnt Bridge Creek Deviation, Condamine St, Kentwell Rd, Allambie Rd & Warringah Rd.
Southbound: Aquatic Dr, Allambie Rd, Kentwell Rd, Condamine St, Burnt Bridge Creek Deviation, Sydney Rd, & Frenchs Forest Rd.
Heavy vehicles: Warringah Rd, Pittwater Rd, Condamine St & Burnt Bridge Creek Deviation in both directions. From: Live Traffic NSW
Visit NSW Government announcement made November 15th, 2022:
Wakehurst Parkway Improvements: More Details On $75 Million Spend Announced By NSW State Government
Councils Facing More Financial Uncertainty Due To Ongoing Red Fleet Dispute
Councils across NSW have been set up to fail their annual audits because the NSW Government is forcing them to carry the depreciation cost of assets they neither own nor control, Local Government NSW (LGNSW) said.
LGNSW President Darriea Turley AM said the current NSW Government was overseeing a dramatic increase in the number of councils being hit with qualified audits, after only two were issued in 2021.
And she said the spike in qualified audits comes down to the NSW Government’s insistence that council accounts include depreciation costs for Rural Fire Service (RFS) assets.
“It is a ridiculous notion that councils are responsible for RFS assets. In most instances we don’t even normally know when a new fire truck arrives in town until we see a photo of the Minister and the local fire service in the media,” Cr Turley said.
“But despite this, the NSW Government continues to dig its heels in on the issue and heap more financial uncertainty on the local government sector at a time when councils facing unprecedented natural disasters can least afford it.
“A qualified audit report can have serious financial repercussions for councils, limiting their ability to obtain loans and grants.
“The bullying of councils by the NSW Government needs to end. The government needs to do the right thing and take back control of the RFS assets.”
Cr Turley said LGNSW and councils across NSW wholeheartedly support the efforts of RFS volunteers who do a heroic job to keep communities safe.
“This is purely about questionable accounting practices adopted by the NSW Government,” Cr Turley added.
“Requiring councils to record in their financial statements the total annual depreciation expense of RFS red fleet assets – estimated to be $145 million in the past year – will result in many councils having even less money to repair potholes in local roads or rebuild communities devastated by recent floods, let alone continue to provide and maintain other community infrastructure and services.
“And that hurts everybody, including those RFS volunteers who are such a critical part of their communities.
“This financial sleight of hand being perpetrated by the NSW Government shows a real disregard for our rural and regional communities, as well as for city fringe areas such as the Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury and Wollondilly.
“We’re so concerned about the implications of this issue that several metropolitan councils who don’t have a RFS are passing motions in support for the communities that do.
“I applaud all the councils who have opposed this nonsensical stance from the State Government.
“Councils are speaking with one voice and we won’t tolerate this Government’s attempts to polish up their own accounts at councils’ expense.
“LGNSW is willing to work with the government to resolve this discrepancy as quickly as possible so that councils can concentrate on the recovery needs of communities right across the state.”
Nominations Open For The 2023 Australian Surfing Awards
The 39th Australian Surfing Awards are just a few months away and you can have your say on who will pick up one of the coveted titles with nominations now open.
This year there are 17 categories including the new addition of Surf School of the Year.
Awards are presented to those who have made a significant contribution to the development of surfing in Australia from Male Surfer of the Year to Female Surfer of the Year, Coach of the Year, Surf Culture and Indigenous Surfing Community Celebration.
If you love big waves you can vote for the Heavy Water Award or even submit a photo or video for the Surf Photo of the Year and Surf Video of the Year categories and it's easy using our online form.
The event will also see an athlete inducted into Surfing Australia’s Hall of Fame. Lat year Joel Parkinson was added to the prestigious list joining other world-class Aussie athletes Stephanie Gilmore, Julian Wilson, Owen Wright, Mick Fanning and Sally Fitzgibbons.
Surfing Australia CEO, Chris Mater said: “It has been an incredible year for our surfers & community, and we look forward to celebrating their achievements at the Australian Surfing Awards. This is a chance to recognise not only our top athletes but also the broad spectrum of individuals and organisations who are involved in the sport through events, business, media, photography, movies, clubs, travel, administration or pioneering new initiatives.”
Nominations close on December 18, 2022.
The 17 categories are:
Male Surfer of the Year
Harvey Norman Female Surfer of the Year
Male Para Surfer of the Year
Female Para Surfer of the Year
Griffith University Male Rising Star Award (18 & Under)
Griffith University Female Rising Star Award (18 & Under)
Heavy Water Award
Reef Tip Greater Good Award
Peter Troy Lifetime Achievement Award
Coach of the Year Award
Surf School of the Year Award
Simon Anderson Club Award
Acciona Innovation Award
Surf Culture Award
Indigenous Surfing Community Celebration Award
Surf Photo of the Year
Surf Video of the Year
Nominate here: https://australiansurfingawards.com
Become A Volunteer Radio Operator: MRNSW
Are you looking for a new challenge? With the busy summer boating season coming up Marine Rescue NSW units up and down the coast want to hear from you!
And if you live in Sydney, our State Communications Centre in Belrose is especially keen to hear from you, just drop a line to: base.sydney@marinerescuensw.com.au
Prior radio and boating experience is not required, and as a Radio Operator you'll play a vital role in helping to keep our waterways safer.
If you want to take the plunge and join a dedicated volunteer team helping to save lives on our waterways, then go here for more information:
www.marinerescuensw.com.au/become-a-volunteer/ or contact your local Marine Rescue NSW unit directly.
Volunteers Needed: Meals On Wheels
Meals on Wheels have lost a lot of volunteers in the last few months due to COVID regulations etc. so they are desperate for some new people on the roster.
The local service covers all the way from Manly Vale up to Palm Beach, so a run takes around 60-90mins.
You leave from and return to the warehouse in Bassett Street, Mona Vale.
You don’t need to sign on to permanent shifts, even once a month would help them out greatly.
All drivers need an unrestricted license, must be fully vaccinated and will require a volunteer police check.
If you are able to assist please call Milly on 9457 3900 or email
NBeachesVolunteer@kmow.org.au and she can give you more info and send you through training paperwork.
Mona Vale Residents Association
Mona Vale Residents Association is a community group encouraging involvement on important matters within the Mona Vale area.
Email: mvrasydney@gmail.com
Facebook page: www.facebook.com/monavaleresidents
Fairy Penguins Coming Ashore
The Australian Seabird & Turtle Rescue Central Coast looks after seabirds and turtles that come ashore along our beaches.
Little penguins on the Central Coast, off Barrenjoey and in the Hunter region live and breed on offshore islands.
If one is found along our coastline, the penguin may be suffering from exhaustion, is unwell, injured or is currently moulting. Please report any penguins that are found onshore and please don’t place them back into the ocean.
