Community News: February 2020

February 23 - 29, 2020: Issue 439

This Issue: full list in Contents page 

Front Page Issue 439 

Barrenjoey Supports Fire-Ravaged Mogo Public School 

2020 Mothernest Great Lakes Pro. by Surfing NSW 

Early Entry Fee Extended For Sydney Harbour Regatta by Lisa Ratcliff

Aquatics Australian Surf Rowers League (ASRL) Open 2020 A Success Five surf boat crews from the SLS Sydney Northern Beaches Branch won their finals at the ASRL Open at Mollymook. The Mona Vale Drifters (Under 19 female), Palm Beach Playboys (Under 23 male), North Narrabeen Smokos (Reserve male - sweep the legendary Don McManus, who has returned to the club he first joined in 1962), South Curl Curl White Bread (Masters 240 Mixed) and the Avalon Beach Antiques (Masters 180 Female) were all successful in securing gold last weekend

Byford and Hudson Crowned 2020 Sydney 38 OD Australian Champions  by Di Pearson

Pictures Mona Vale Road East Upgrade: Mid to Late February Notice and Pictorial Record of Works and Changes - February 2020

Food Local Mum’s Call-Out To Food Service Venues: Please Feed My Kids Too - Supplier Of Allergy Free Food & Services Launched Northern Beaches food service venues are missing out on business because they’re not adequately catering for locals with food allergies. Avalon mum of three, Annabel Selby-Jones, is frustrated with not being able to take her kids with Coeliac Disease out for a family meal more often, or grab a quick take-away, so she has quit her job to launch a business that helps food businesses more easily manage food allergies. FeedMeToo not only supplies allergy-friendly food to businesses, but Annabel also provides education, resources and advice on how to avoid cross contamination in the kitchen.

WSL World Champions to Headline Epic Field at Upcoming Sydney Surf Pro: March 8 through 14, 2020 at Manly

Sculptures To Commemorate The Meeting Of Two Cultures At Kamay Botany Bay: Kamay 2020 Project - The 250th Anniversary - another Sculpture example!

Profile The Ocean Film Festival World Tour 2020: Founder Jemima Robinson Has A Vision To Inspire You To Explore, Respect, Enjoy, and Protect Our Oceans
For aspiring professional surfer Fraser Dovell, the wild, treacherous waters of the Arctic are a far cry from the tepid climates at the world’s popular surf breaks, where he spent much of his youth. Dovell’s thrilling journey north has been documented in A Corner of the Earth by Pittwater locals, filmmaker Spencer Frost and photographer Guy Williment. The pair have captured breathtaking footage, documenting the harsh reality of surfing off ice-capped beaches, and the humour of an Aussie growing accustomed to life in sub-zero temperatures, in perfect measure. The film was a family affair; Frost’s brother produced the soundtrack, their father assisting with production.

But what started out as a small-time passion project is now gaining international acclaim. A Corner of the Earth has been named a finalist in the Ocean Film Festival World Tour. Festival Director Jemima Robinson says it’s important to bring Australian stories like Dovell’s to the world.

“When the Ocean Film Festival started seven years ago, most of the entries received were from the U.S. Thankfully, in that time that has changed as we've given local talent a forum to showcase their stories.  We are proud to bring the work of Australian filmmakers to audiences not only around Australia, but to ocean lovers across the globe.”

A Corner of the Earth will be seen more than 100 times across 10 countries, including the USA, UK, China and Singapore. It will also be seen in 32 towns across Australia, including in regional centres.

“By sharing stories about people who dedicate their lives to preserving the ocean or working in marine environments we can show regional youth career paths that they never thought were possible,” Robinson says.

The Ocean Film Festival, founded in Avalon Beach, is a wholly Australian initiative that’s rapidly gaining popularity across the globe. Some of the world’s best outdoor filmmakers vie for a spot on the world tour. A Corner of the Earth is one of seven films that will feature this year. The Ocean Film Festival World Tour around Australia this February to April includes 3 locations in Sydney: Hayden Orpheum 3, 4, 5 March, Seymour Centre, 4 & 5 March and the Randwick Ritz on the 10th & 11th March. This Issue a small insight into the 2020 Ocean Film Festival and founder, Jemima Robinson. 

History The First Naval Exercises By The New South Wales Colonial Ships – The Wolverene At Broken Bay In 1885: Reprise 2020 In the lead up to the International Fleet Review in Sydney Harbour, October 3 -11 2013, celebrating the first entry of our own Australian Navy fleet into Sydney Harbour in 1913, Pittwater Online shared a few articles on the changes that brought about this great day for New South Wales and Australia and what was said about that first Fleet Review, when we finally had our own Navy. The 2013 International Fleet Review had a series of events, some similar to those that ran October 3rd to 11th, 1913. This combination of great old ships and History naturally was of interest to all living around the Pittwater estuary, up the Hawkesbury, across Broken Bay and all along the beaches that stretch from Barrenjoey to Narrabeen lagoon. The work towards establishing a Navy for Australia all began a fair while before then though, and our area, in Pittwater and Broken Bay and Narrabeen, had been part of those changes from the outset.

On February 14th 2020 an announcement of similar interest, since a great Coastal Sculpture Walk is being installed here from Manly to Palm Beach, that three commemorative bronze sculptures designed by Aboriginal artists have been chosen to mark the 250th anniversary of the first contact between the crew of HMB Endeavour and the Gweagal people on the shores of Botany Bay, brought all those past articles and present aspirations into sharper relief.

Federal Minister for the Environment, Sussan Ley has announced that artists Julie Squires and Theresa Ardler’s works ‘Wi-Yanga and Gurung The Whales’ and the ‘Nuwi/Canoes’ have been chosen along with Alison Page with Nik Lachacjzak’s ‘Eyes of the Land and Water’. You can read more about those here.

Our area has a few connections with the HMB Endeavour and a living connection with the original custodians of this place and their sharing of what has happened here and further afield, through the keeping of ancient records. As the Coastal Walk, and Markers along its ways, begin to materialise and doff their caps in substance to what came before us and what thrives still, one insight for younger and older Readers, especially those who have joined in perusing these records after the 2013 IFR run of articles - all listed here this Issue should you wish to read them in sequence, runs this week. 

Environment Here Are 5 Practical Ways Trees Can Help Us Survive Climate Change, Bush Regeneration Dinner at Mona Vale; March 13, Climate Action Now forum: March 14 at Pittwater RSL, Ten Minute Histories: The Rock Lily and The Orchid On North Head, Ten Years Of The Krebs Lecture: + 2020 One Given This Week By Prof. Lindenmayer, South Coast Shorebird Hatching Boom Despite Bushfires, Mountain Pygmy-Possums Dig Into Food and Water, NSW Landholders Face Future Risks Should CSG Go Ahead: EPA will not proceed with environmental rehabilitation fund recommended by the Chief Scientist, Bylong Community Steps Up To Court Defence Of Mine Refusal After Shock IPC Withdrawal, Incompetence and Cronyism Still Mar Water Management In NSW, Eraring Must Close By 2026 For NSW To Play Its Role In Keeping Global Heating Below 2 Degrees, Seven Football Fields Of Habitat For The Greater Glider, Warming Oceans Are Getting Louder, $5 Million To Seed Habitat Recovery, Roundtable To Help Steer Environmental Recovery In The Hawkesbury And Blue Mountains, Curl Curl Clean Up: Feb 23 - NB Clean Up Crew, North Narrabeen Beach Clean: March 1, Rock Platform Tour March 21, Bushcare In Pittwater, Gardens And Environment Groups and Organisations In Pittwater, Pittwater Reserves, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon February 2020 Forum - Catchment Secrets Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment: Discoveries So Far In The 21st Century, FONLC Bushwalks 2020, PNB 1st Meeting For 2020: Habitat Protection

Inbox News Ancient Plant Foods Discovered In Arnhem Land, Insufficient Evidence Backing Herbal Medicines For Weight Loss, Exposure To Cleaning Products In First 3 Months Of Life Increases Risk Of Childhood Asthma, Mother Nature: Reshaping Modern Play Spaces For Children's Health, New World Record For Conversion Of Solar Energy To Electricity Using Quantum Dots, Rogue Cells At Root Of Autoimmune Disease

Park Bench Philosopher Breakthrough Listen Releases 2 Petabytes Of Data From SETI Survey Of Milky Way: Parkes Radio Telescope Data Collected + Leading Australian Telescopes To Get Technology Upgrades

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update: February 23rd, 2020

Click on Logo to access latest PON: 


To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Marine Rescue Broken Bay New Vessel

An exciting time for our Broken Bay unit and members with the build of their new Naiad 10.5 vessel commencing. Some photos posted on their Facebook platform this week with the message;
'Thank you to everyone that voted for us in the my community grants project.'

The weekend prior to that the unit put new members through their sea survival course.The Marine Rescue Broken Bay Base is located at the Bayview Boat Ramp, Rowland Reserve, Pittwater Rd, Bayview. Find out more about this great volunteer organisation at:  www.mrbrokenbay.com.au

A boat build progress photo:

Pittwater Friends Of Soibada Annual General Meeting

Monday, February 24, 2020 at 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Avalon Beach RSL Club
1 Bowling Green Lane, Avalon

Our annual general meeting is followed by an information session open to members of the public who are interested in becoming members or just hearing more about us.

In 2020 PFOS celebrates its 10th Anniversary. 

A Songs for Soibada will also be held later this year.

Pittwater Online News will be running a special 10 year insight post the AGM.

Times Square - Thank You

February 18, 2020: NSW Rural Fire Service
We wanted to say a big "thank you" to the incredible firefighters and community members who have done so much over the last few months.

It's been a mammoth effort from firefighters from all agencies, across all states and territories, and from the US, Canada and NZ.

And when we say a big thank you, we mean big.

Thanks to a very kind donation of ad space from Silvercast, we've taken the message to a 70 foot high billboard in NYC!

Thank You!

To all our surfers, beach lovers, clubbies and residents, thank you for cleaning our beaches.

We’ve seen you everyday over the past days, as individuals, with friends and family, doing the “bend down pick up plastic, get up again, do it again” dance, in an attempt to put our battered beaches back together again. Picking through the charred and haunted remains of burnt forests, homes and critters that have been swept to our shores via storm waters and swells.

The tide make take it out but it always comes back in again.
So Thank you!


Bilgola Beach last weekend - Bilgola SLSC photo

Day 1 Of Year 10: Thank You!

Pittwater Online News slipped quietly into the work of Day 1 of Year 10 earlier this week - 'she who pays the bills' only noticed when the payment to the Server for this site, which is set up to automatically be deducted annually, tuned up as a Receipt - for the 10th time.

You may hear the popping of a champagne cork towards the end of Summer 2020/2021 - and a few 'specials' and reprise catch-ups here and there in Issues coming up.... it's only more work and more coffee - let's get it done!

Thank you for all the messages of congratulations and support this week.
Thank you Pittwater - we love you too!

Narrabeen FC Looking For U11'S

Narrabeen Football Club is looking for Under 11 players to join our club. If your child would like to play soccer this season head to our website www.narrabeenfc.com.au or contact nfcsecretary1@gmail.com or nfcregistrar@gmail.com for more information.

Narrabeen FC has 9 home grounds located near the Boondah Rd Canteen and Ted Blackwood Hall. In addition, Narrabeen FC utilises the Narrabeen Sports High School (NSHS).

Council Gets Busy!

What a difference a few days makes - photos of Bilgola and Palm Beach post-storm and on Friday - clean again! Photos by and courtesy Joanne Seve - thanks Joanne!

Bilgola Beach - before and after

 

Palm Beach - before and after

Miki Trbojevich Debuts With The Waratahs

Defending Super W champions, the Waratahs opened their 2020 account with a dominant, yet hard-fought 33-3 win against the Rebels.

This week’s performance was a turbo charged event in more ways than one. Warringah’s own Miki Trbojevich made her Super W debut and it was clear she was ecstatic about getting onto the field and finishing her first game with the Waratahs victorious - making it one from one.

The NSW Waratahs confirmed In January that Mikaela Trbojevich was the final addition to the 30-player squad for the 2020 Buildcorp Super W season.

Miki joined the squad after Emily Robinson sustained a neck injury, which has subsequently ruled her out of the season. With Round 1 fast approaching Campbell Aitken worked quickly to find an apt replacement up front. Having already been a part of the initial 47-player preseason training squad, Trbojevich is no stranger to Aitken’s set up.

Her cousins Tom, Ben and Jake Trbojevic all play league for the Manly Sea Eagles, but she is hoping to make her name synonymous within rugby union.

Warringah’s Women’s Head Coach, Mark Wilson said “Miki’s debut on Friday night  (February 14, 2020)is just rewards for all the hard work she has put in over the past few years. We couldn’t be prouder of her!” 

Former women’s representative coach and current Warringah men’s grade coach, Greg Lee said ‘...it’s no surprise Miki has achieved what she has having seen the level of her commitment, but more importantly the work ethic she shows on and off the field places her in a strong position to go all the way.”

Miki comes from a sporting family and contact sport is definitely in her DNA. Her father, Ryan was an uncompromising forward and club stalwart at the Rats. Her relatives Tom and Jake Trbojevich are both local heroes,  playing for the Sea Eagles, NSW and The Kangaroos.

Miki is living proof that hard work and dedication to your craft can pay dividends.


Miki Trbojevich and former Warringah Ratette and Australian 7s player, Chloe Dalton. Image: NSW Waratahs.

Level 1 Water Restrictions Expected For Greater Sydney

February 19, 2020
Water restrictions across Greater Sydney are expected to be relaxed to Level 1 from 1 March 2020.
The current Level 2 water restrictions are expected to be relaxed as Sydney dam levels reach 80% following the recent heavy rainfall.

Under Level 1 water restrictions, Greater Sydney residents and businesses are not allowed to:

leave hoses running unattended 
wash vehicles or buildings without a fitted hose with trigger nozzle 
use sprinklers or watering systems at any time.
Fines of $220 will apply for residents and $550 for businesses who do not follow Level 1 restrictions. Exemptions will be available for non-residential customers with outdoor water use as their core business.

Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey said Level 2 water restrictions will remain in place until 1 March 2020 to reduce the demand on the water supply network and ensure water quality remains high.

“A number of initiatives are in place to ensure the water is safe for use, including extensive testing, filtration and nets to catch debris, but we are allowing an extra two weeks purely as a precautionary measure,” said Mrs Pavey.

Lifeline Classic 2020

Have you registered a team in the 2020 Lifeline Classic? There's still time! You can make a difference by simply paddling out.

On the shores of Queenscliff Beach on Sunday 29 March, pro surfers and proud locals team up to take on the waves and raise money for a critical cause: suicide prevention.

The Lifeline Classic is our annual ‘tag team’ surfing comp – and it’s the biggest fundraising event on our calendar. Last year, locals banded together to raise over $60,000, and had a ball while doing so. Our 2020 event is set to be bigger and better than ever!

With only 5 weeks to go, there's still time to register a team - http://bit.ly/2s8j4Uu
Round up a team of four surfers. They can be colleagues, mates, family… anyone who’s keen to hit the waves. Remember this is a fun, inclusive event for all surfers (even newbies!). There’s no judgement, it’s all about taking part!

Team up with a charity that saving lives, right in our own backyard. Every $27.96 raised answers a call to our 24/7 13 11 14 suicide and crisis prevention line.

Want To Help Our Wildlife As A Carer ? Here's How;

DoggieRescue.com

Pets of the Week


Coco

AGE/SEX: 4 years / M
BREED: Miniature Pinscher X Foxy
Coco is a timid 4yo Foxy X who does not appear to have experienced much in his life. He is good with quiet small dogs but quickly gets overwhelmed and barky if there is lots of noise, people or other stimuli. He needs to be introduced to each new person he meets slowly with a treat. He needs an experienced family living in a quiet household to open the world to Coco. To an experienced doggy person he is sweet and easy to handle and pick up. He would suit apartment living and is best with a home based worker. He has a short coat and weighs 7.2kg. He comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. His adoption cost is $400. 

Casper


Howdy I’m Casper!! I am approximately 3 months old and I came to The Cottage animal hospital with my brother Jekyll and sister Hyde after coming from the local pound. We sadly lost our mummy somewhere along the way. We luckily found our foster mum, Eleven (who is looking for a home too!) She was lovely and raised us as her own.

We are big enough now that we want to move out of home and get our own families too! I have learnt how to play, eat nicely from a bowl and I always use my litter tray. I love my siblings but I will get all the love in the world with my new family, so we don’t mind being separated. But if you want my siblings too, who are we to argue? If you could be my new family purr-lease call.

If you are interested in meeting him, please contact DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email cats@doggierescue.com.

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

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

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

New Cake Shop Opens In Narrabeen

For those who like to spend their time hanging around in the Department of Yum you may like to venture to 65 Waterloo Street Narrabeen and try out what's on offer at 'Cake Me Up'!

The owners  make real deserts from the best ingredients, the old fashioned way – by hand, with dedication and love!

Visit their Facebook page, see what's on offer - and Cake yourself Up - an example of what's on offer:


Make A Submission To The NSW Bushfire Inquiry

February 11, 2020
Member for Manly James Griffin has welcomed the opening of submissions to the independent expert inquiry into the 2019-20 bushfire season, which will provide input to NSW ahead of the next bushfire season.

“The Inquiry is welcoming submissions from across the community, from bushfire-affected residents, emergency and support personnel, organisations and the general public,” Mr Griffin said. 

In particular I encourage our local Rural Fire Service brigades and volunteers to share their expert knowledge to ensure we are best prepared for the next bushfire season.” 

The Inquiry will also be travelling to bushfire affected communities to meet with and hear directly from people who have been impacted. The Inquiry will inform local communities ahead of all visits to ensure it reaches as many people as possible. 

How to make a submission 

Your response and feedback will help to inform the Inquiry's report. Submissions are encouraged to refer to the Inquiry's Terms of Reference

Respondents can use the online form to make a submission. You can also provide your feedback by: 
  • Email: inquiries@bushfireinquiry.nsw.gov.au
  • Post: NSW Independent Bushfire Inquiry, GPO Box 5341, Sydney NSW 2001
  • Phone: If you have limited computer or internet access you can make a submission over the phone by calling the Bushfire Customer Care program on 13 77 88
  • In-person: at any Service NSW service centre or at a Mobile Service Centre
Submissions close Friday 27 March 2020.

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Stalls 2020


MVHA Stalls to June 2020
Pittwater Place, Mona Vale. 
Selling knitting, sewing, craft, books and jam. 9am to 3pm.
February 1st, March 7th. April 4th, May 2nd, June 6th

Bunnings, Narrabeen.
Sausage sizzles 8am to 3pm.
February 8th, March 14th, April 11th, May 9th, June 6th.




Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary

 

Click on logo above to visit their website.


Sewage Overflow Into Warriewood Creeks And Narrabeen Lagoon

On Saturday February 22nd, all day, residents of Warriewood and Narrabeen reported a strong smell of sewage in creeks near Warriewood square as well as a strong discolouration of the water. The Narrabeen lagoon was orange out from Mullet Creek by mid afternoon. One resident posted this photo of the creek on Saturday afternoon on a community forum page.


A sign on the bridge going past the basketball courts stated the water could have sewage contamination.  Overflow from a section sewerage treatment works during flooding, cnr. of Jacksons and Garden, is the source of the pollution - now flowing out into the lagoon and Narrabeen beach through the creek.

Further south the BeachWatch (NSW Gov) advised people to avoid swimming at Long Reef and Dee Why due to sewage overflow 'nearby' on February 19, 2020.

However, a check of the Sydney Water website on the same date (Feb. 22) showed no notification for the same, despite people seeing workers in the area yesterday.

A gentleman running on Narrabeen Beach on Tuesday afternoon, February 18th, reports there was a very heavy stink of raw sewage present there then.

On September 25th, 2013 the state government announced the Sydney Water’s $70 million Northern Beaches Storage Project had been completed.

''The new facility will reduce the frequency of wastewater overflows into local waterways during heavy rain, further protecting the unique environment on the Northern Beaches."

Then NSW Minister for Finance and Services Andrew Constance and Member for Manly Mike Baird marked the occasion in Brookvale.

“The Northern Beaches Storage Project will deliver a more robust wastewater system that will serve the Northern Beaches community for many years to come,” Mr Constance said.

“The facility involves an 18 million litre aboveground storage tank that will temporarily store excess wastewater diverted from the Narrabeen Submain.

“After the rain passes, the excess wastewater will be released back into the Submain and it will continue to the North Head Wastewater Treatment Plant.

“This facility, together with local sewer improvements, will reduce the frequency of wastewater overflows by 65 per cent over ten years, further protecting local beaches, lagoons and creeks.

Mr Constance said then This project also comes off the back of the recently completed $32 million upgrade to the Warriewood Wastewater Treatment Plant.”

Then Premier Mr Baird said the Northern Beaches Storage Project is great news for the local community.
“The NSW Government is committed to protecting the natural environment, and this storage facility will reduce the frequency of wastewater overflows and improve water quality across the Northern Beaches,” then Premier Mr Baird said.

In 2014 Surfrider Foundation Northern Beaches member and Collaroy resident Brendan Donohoe said the increasing population at the northern end of the peninsula “and seemingly intractable problems caused by wet weather flows require a comprehensive long-term solution”.

“This would replace the simplistic approach of a cliff face ocean outfall that has existed for more than 30 years,” Mr Donohoe said.

He said the Warriewood plant had a deep ocean outfall designed for it in the 1980s but engineering issues at the cliff face led to this proposal being abandoned.

Residents find that Turrimetta beach is frequently polluted still during these storm events and 'overflows' - the current one having been going strong for 4 days now - as we go to press. No Beachwatch pollution warning was listed for Turrimetta either though.

In a May 2010 NSW Parliament session Rob Stokes, MP for Pittwater, asked the then Minister for Water, in regards to the then proposed Warriewood Treatment Plant Upgrade: 
''What is the reduced overflow abatement target for the Warriewood Sewage Treatment Plant as set by the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water?

The answer being: 
The reduced overflow target for the Warriewood Sewage Treatment Plant set by the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water is 48 wet weather overflows in ten years by June 2012. This target is currently 68 overflows in ten years.

Based on these statistics, an average of 4.8 incidents each year, for the next 10 years (to 2022), was acceptable to the state government 10 years ago. 

Warriewood, Turrimetta and Narrabeen residents may have a different perspective - as may those living a little further south who love a splash about in the ocean - in February 2020.

Mona Vale Road East - Out Of Hours Work

Out of hours work will continue along Mona Vale Road and at the Samuel Street, Ponderosa Parade and Mona Vale Road roundabout. We will work between 8pm and 5am on the following dates, weather permitting:

  • Tuesday 18, Wednesday 19 and Friday 21 February
  • Tuesday 25, Wednesday 26 and Friday 28 February

If work is delayed due to wet weather, we will try and work a different night within the same week. We will notify residents living closest to the work if the dates change from the above.

At the Samuel Street, Ponderosa Parade and Mona Vale Road roundabout we will:

  • hammer and excavate the concrete islands located around the roundabout
  • remove the inside raised kerb and vegetation within the roundabout - the roundabout will function as normal
  • saw cut and trench across the road to do utility work
  • investigate existing utilities and take sample cores of existing road
  • deliver materials for construction work.

Between Manor Road and Mona Vale Cemetery we will:

  • remove rock material from the top of the existing rock cuttings
  • install temporary concrete barriers and screening
  • install temporary support for future drainage work
  • continue ongoing road maintenance.

We will use excavators with buckets and hammers, coring machine, bobcats, saw cutters, grinder, sweepers, lighting, rollers and light vehicles. A stop/slow arrangement will be in place with traffic controllers and signage directing traffic.

To minimise the impact of night work on residents, we do not work for more than two consecutive nights in the same area and will work only 10 days within the same month. If you are eligible for Alternative Accommodation you will be advised within 24 hours of the work.


Enquiries and registering for work updates

Please contact the community team for enquiries, feedback or any concerns you may have about the work.

Call: 1800 413 640 (24 hour number).
Email: monavaleroad@georgiou.com.au
For more information: rms.work/mvreast

If you need help understanding this information, please contact the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 and ask them to call us on 1800 413 640.

Use of drone

A drone will be used during the last week of each month to take progress photos and assist with surveying the project.  The drone will remain within the project area.

Pittwater Online News' most recent photos of the MVR East Upgrade, taken on Sunday February 16th 2020, run as this week's Pictorial - commencing from Kimbriki end to Pittwater RSL end.

Also Available:

Bilgola Community Hosting Two Great Events Over The Next Two Weeks

Bilgola locals have organised two events that aim to assist our local communities get mentally fit.

The two events are:
  • Gather – Thursday 27th February 2020
  • A Night with the Blokes – Thursday 5th March 2020
Both events are being held at the Bilgola Surf Life Saving Club, 7.00pm to 9.00pm with some light food from 6.30pm, and they are FREE thanks to the support of Head Above Water and Gotcha4Life.
To make these events happen, Bilgola Surf Life Saving Club has come onboard as the venue partner, while Zubi at Billy’s is going to be providing the finger food for each event.

Registration is done online. 

ABOUT GATHER
Ladies, what do we need today and what do we want for tomorrow?
Let’s unpack the history, expectations and facts of modern-day womanhood, challenge the status quo and ask ourselves the question ‘Who is the women I want to be tomorrow?”. Let’s GATHER.
Join us for a FREE event on Thursday 27 February 2020 at Bilgola Surf Life Saving Club from 6.30pm for a bite to eat, before a 7.00pm start. Event ends at 9.00pm.

Grab your lady friends and get your free tickets at www.tomorrowwoman.com.au/events/gatherbilgola
Please note: This event is for 16+ years, however under 16’s may come if accompanied by an adult. Also, it is not only for Bilgola community members – it’s for lady friends far and wide, the more the merrier.



A NIGHT WITH THE BLOKES
Gents, get beyond the banter and explore what it means to be a man today and tomorrow. Let’s have a no-holds barred conversation about the state of man, face the stats and create a space to explore how you can better look after yourself, your mates and your families, while carving out your own version of the Aussie man.
Join us for a FREE event on Thursday 5 March 2020 at Bilgola Surf Life Saving Club from 6.30pm for a bite to eat, before a 7.00pm start. Event ends at 9.00pm.
Grab your mates friends and get your free tickets at www.tomorrowman.com.au/events/blokesnightbilgolabeach



Both of these events are proudly brought to you by Bilgola locals in partnership with Gotch4Life (https://www.gotcha4life.org), Tomorrow Woman (https://www.tomorrowwoman.com.au/), Bilgola Surf Life Saving Club (https://www.bilgolaslsc.org.au/) and Zubi at Billy’s (@Zubi at Billy’s).
They wouldn’t be possible without the amazing fundraising support of Head Above Water (https://www.headabovewater.com.au/) – a charity run by a bunch of local lads that helps to build mentally fit communities on the Northern Beaches with Gotcha4Life.

See you there!
Bilgola Beach and Plateau Community

Surf Life Saving New South Wales Seeking Inspirational Womens' Stories

July 1 2020 marks the 40th anniversary of women's involvement in active surf lifesaving duties.
Surf Life Saving NSW is celebrating this important anniversary and the achievements of women over the past 40 years. They're asking for help to recognise our trailblazing women by sharing your stories, photographs and videos.

SLS NSW will showcase these inspirational stories throughout the 2020/21 season and create an archive for future generations. 

How you can help Celebrate
  • Email SLS NSW your stories about the women who inspired change in the Surf Life Saving movement
  • Send them your photos and videos here or via WeTransfer to memberservices@surflifesaving.com.au
  • Post photos on Facebook, lnstagram and Twitter using the hastag #WomenInSLS
  • Send photographs, film and newspaper articles to SLSNSW - PO Box 307, Belrose 2085 (they will digitise and return)
Four of the first official women to patrol our beaches were welcomed at Whale Beach SLSC in 1980. (Sara & Jill Peters, Marion Robb and Tina Gowing)

ABHS General Meeting March 2020

The next meeting of the Avalon Beach Historical Society will be held on Tuesday 10 March starting at 8pm. As usual it will be held in the mighty ‘Bowlo’ – the Avalon Beach Bowling Club in Bowling Green Lane.

GOWS, GONSALVES, GODDARDS and GOLDTHORPE & SMITH
That’s a lot of Gs admittedly but we have already talked about and seen photos of the first two and this time we will look much more closely at the remaining two Gs.

Two generations of the Witchard family just about covers this history, having been involved with boats of all sizes in Pittwater for around 90 years.

Although Charles Henry Witchard (known familiarly as ‘Chick’) was born at Annandale, the family later moved to Patonga. Chick began working across the bay as a yard hand for William Joseph Goddard (known as ‘Old Man Goddard’) at Goddards Boatshed just north of Sand Point. The Port Jackson and Manly Steamship Co. bought the business and moved it around the corner to Goldthorpe and Smith’s boatshed, taking Chick with them as Manager.

The two boatsheds, wharves and slips were, for many years, inextricably linked to the point where their history is easier to discuss as a whole rather than as separate identities. 

We have an excellent photographic history of both boatsheds thanks to locals John Witchard, Peter Verrills and several other contributors.

Some of the photos show much of the surrounding Sand Point and Pittwater area, so you don’t necessarily have to be a ‘boatie’ or a ‘yachtie’ to appreciate the photographic history. 

Our ‘catering whizzes’ will no doubt provide another super supper, which you won’t want to miss either. Guests of members are very welcome and to stay for supper afterwards.

If you or your family have any photos of early Avalon Beach from any era, the Society would love the opportunity to scan them and add them to the collection. They can then be used for research, exhibition or as an educational tool when Geoff visits the local schools to give one of his many talks.
Even if you now live out of the area you can email Geoff: geoff@abhs.org.au

To see some of the great photos we have in the collection check out our website under Avalon Beach Historical Society or go to abhs.org.au 

Geoff Searl OAM
President
Avalon Beach Historical Society

Help Asked To Find House Constructed In The 1960s Around A Tree: Answered

Dear Pittwater Online News
I'm wondering if one of your readers remembers a house built in the early 60s.  This house was special because it was built around a tree.

My father was a welder constructing the steel frame around the tree, a crane had to be used and it was on the cliff edge.

My father is in his 80s now and we'd love to go for a drive and have a look to see his handiwork or if it even still stands.  He can't remember the address and the area has changed a lot.

Hoping someone knows...

Thanks,
Kind regards,

Diana

Earlier this week Gerd Hollander answered the above, stating he remembered living next to this house at Narrabeen - we've passed on this Information top Diana - thanks Gerd!;

'Famous architect Col Madigan (High Court, Warringah Library) built a very modern house at the top of Lindley Avenue (No 42) Narrabeen around a tree in the late 1950s. It wasn’t exactly on a cliff edge, but close to a substantial drop down to houses fronting The Esplanade. I lived next door as a kid. The house was demolished years ago and replaced by a big house spanning two blocks. '

Pittwater Online News has contacted a firm associated with Mr. Madigan in an attempt to track down images/drawings of this home. There's a lot more to this great Australian Architect. More soon, hopefully!

Sydney Harbour Trust Leasing Policy Reform: Public Submissions Invited

The Harbour Trust invites public comment on its proposed Draft Harbour Trust Leasing Policy 2020, which would amend the current policy and the way it deals with unsolicited proposals to lease public Harbour Trust land.

Interested individuals and organisations are invited to make submissions on:

A number of supporting documents are available to view online 
Public comment closes on 11 March 2020 - have your say here

Avalon Beach Toastmasters Annual Speech Contest

Hosted by Avalon Beach Toastmasters Club
Tuesday, February 25, 2020 at 6:45 PM – 9:15 PM
Avalon Beach Toastmasters Club
1 Bowling Green Lane Avalon Beach

Once a year, we hold a contest for motivational speeches and evaluations, and February 25 is that that night. Come along and enjoy!  

Not interested in watching a contest? Please visit us at our next regular meeting, Tuesday 10 March, where everyone will be able to participate. Looking forward to meeting you.

Find out more at:  www.avalontoastmasters.org.au


Mona Vale Girl Guides District AGM 2020

Hosted by Mona Vale Girl Guides
Monday, March 16, 2020 at 6 PM – 8 PM
Mona Vale Girl Guides
Kitchener Park, Barrenjoey Rd, Mona Vale
Bingo cards and grazing platters are provided.
All the family is welcome: parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, grandparents!

Come along and
  • see what our Mona Vale District has been doing; 
  • thank the volunteers who run the units;
  • contribute ideas for 2020;
  • volunteer for a role at Mona Vale for 2020;
  • meet other parents in your Guiding community; and
  • have fun while playing Bingo & grazing from platters!

About Mona Vale Girl Guides
We are a leadership organisation for girls and young women. We run 3 "units" for girls during school terms (and school holiday camps). The program is girl-led and ranges from camping and outdoor adventure, to learning to work in teams, social skills, fun with the arts, global citizenship and more! We are a not-for-profit community-minded organisation and accept girls from all cultures, backgrounds and spiritual beliefs.

At Mona Vale, we run:
"Junior Guides" (for girls aged 7-10) Monday 4pm - 5.30pm
"Guides" (for girls aged 10-14) Monday 6pm - 8pm
"Senior Guides" (for girls aged 14-18) Fortnightly Tuesdays 7pm - 9pm

We also offer volunteer leadership opportunities for women aged 18-100!

Call our District Manager on 0403 556 131.

We hire our hall for one off and long term hires. Contact our Hall Booking Officer on 0403 556 131 for availability and rates. 

Gotcha4Life Fun Run 2020

The Gotcha4Life Fun Run (formally known as The Cliffside Festival) is in its 3rd year and taking place on March 22nd 2020. Enjoy the picturesque loop course along the Long Reef headland and up to Collaroy. Finish back at Griffith Park where the fun continues. Relax in the chill zone or challenge yourself to the climbing wall. Enjoy sumptuous food from our selection of gourmet food trucks. Click on the link https://gotcha4lifefunrun.org/signup to register.

Pittwater International Women’s Day Breakfast Wednesday 4 March 2020 7am At Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club

Bookings are now open for the Pittwater International Women’s Day Breakfast on Wednesday 4th March 2020.  The Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Inc will host this annual breakfast at The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, 16 Mitala St, Newport.  

The guest speaker at the breakfast will be Lucy Brogden AM.  Lucy has a strong commitment to helping others.  Her primary areas of focus are issues facing Women and Girls, and Mental Health and Wellbeing, particularly in the workplace.  She takes an evidenced based approach to problem solving and social investment.  The 2020 Pittwater Woman of the Year will be announced at the breakfast by Rob Stokes, Member for Pittwater. 

Lucy has more than 25 years’ experience commercial experience with companies including, Macquarie Group and Ernst & Young, working in accounting, finance and organisational psychology.   Specifically, Lucy has worked in trusted advisory roles with some of Australia’s leading CEO’s, Managing Partners, Ministers and Chairs. Amongst many other positions Lucy is Chair & Commissioner, National Mental Health Commission.

Lucy was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in the 2019 Australia Day Honours " For significant service to workplace mental health and wellbeing”.  Lucy will speak on her life story.

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches is a member of Zonta International which is a global organisation of executives and professionals working together to advance the status of women worldwide through service and advocacy. Zonta International is affiliated at the United Nations with other major women’s organisations.  

This breakfast marks International Women's Day (8 March). It is a day to acknowledge women's contribution to making Australia, and the world, a better place.  Everyone is invited to celebrate the day. 
The IWD Breakfast will be held at The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club at 7am till 9am on Wednesday 4 March 2020. The cost is $50pp.  

The delightful location looks over the waters of Pittwater and across to Bayview and Scotland Island. The breakfast is always well attended by the local community.  Everyone is invited to attend and men are particularly welcome. Please book early as this events may fill quickly.
Enquiries to pittwateriwdbreakfast@gmail.com or Susie 0413 623 392.  

Proceeds from the breakfast will support service projects of Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Inc assisting local women in need, and Zonta International projects in developing countries. Come by yourself, bring a friend or make up a table of 8 to 10.  We will seat you. Please book by 22 February.
For full booking details please see the flyer for this event.

A Safe Time Had By All

Seniors enjoyed a stimulating and educational insights into how to safely enjoy the online world from Greg Gebhart of the NSW eSafety Commission. Mr Gebhart gave a presentation at Avalon Computer Pals on internet safety for seniors on Tuesday 18 February.

The event was organised as part of the 2020 Seniors Festival with a cohort of local Computer Clubs for Seniors joining to offer the presentation. Mr. Genbhart gave a presentation at Newport for AvPals in June 2019 along similar lines, so if you missed it you can find out more in:



Photos by Michael Mannington, Volunteer Photography.

February 16 - 22, 2020: Issue 438

This Issue: 

Front Page Issue 438 SLS SNB Surf Boat Crews Going Off At Team Navy ASRL Open 2020 On The South Coast - Australia Wins Trans-Tasman Comp. (full report next Issue after last day of racing today, Sunday Feb. 16) + Moonlight over Avalon Beach +++

Narrabeen Fire Brigade Celebrates 100th Anniversary + A Few Extra Insights Into Local Fires And Brigade Formations

Sydney Wildlife Mobile Care Unit and Sydney Wildlife Updates: Back Into The Firegrounds + Sending Nesting Boxes and Pouches To Kangaroo Island - February 2020 - 'Tired hands, weary arms, hungry bellies, frayed emotions. But one purpose.'

Aquatics Thrilling Medal Races Produce World Champions: 2020 49er, 49erFX and Nacra 17 Worlds in Geelong, Victoria by Lisa Ratcliff 

Pictures February 2020 Storm Event: Rains & Waves Cause Floods - Some of the captures shared this week by regular contributors - all great local photographers - credited as given

Profile Doreen Cherry OAM 1927 - 2020: Tribute

It is with great sadness that we bring news of the passing of Doreen Cheery OAM, beloved by her family and many in our community.

Our sincere condolences to her loved ones - Doreen will be much missed by all here who had the privilege to know her and share some of her ongoing zest for life and works during the past years.

In the 2014 Australia Day Honours Doreen was awarded an OAM - the citation read:

For service to the community of the North Shore. 

Member, Australian Women of the Year Association, since 1976.  Committee Member, Australian Women's Land Army Association; Member, Land Army, 1945. Supporter, Look Good Feel Better; Mrs Cherry organises the collection of scarves from Women of the Year members, community groups and individuals to donate to Look Good Feel Better (Cancer Patients Association). Supporter, Kaddy Transport, Uniting Care, Uniting Church, Dee Why, from 1982. Supporter, Cerebral Palsy and the Special Centre ‘Miss Australia’ Quest, 1973. Community representative, friendship group exchange tour to Carmel, California USA, 1973. Established, Avalon Beach A1 Company, Girl Guides; assisted in the building of the Guide Hall opened in 1967. Retired Justice of the Peace. Branch Delegate, New South Wales Nurses and Midwives' Association, 1990-1992; Registered Nurse, 1945-1994. Former President, Royal North Shore Hospital Post-Graduate Nurses Association; Foundation Member; Life Member. Early Childhood Specialist.  

This only skims the surface though really. Since Pittwater Online ran a Profile with a small insight into this generous lady in 2012 her work, in everything from collecting plastic bottle-caps to give to local people for humanitarian projects, to attending the Commemoration Service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Veterans as a Land Army Representative, or organising annual luncheons for the Land Army girls in town, or sending cards and chocolates to cheer people up whose illness she had heard of, Doreen was For and About community.

History Pittwater, Narrabeen Lagoon & The Collaroy Beachfront: Some Storms And Flood Tides Of The Past - With Pictures! Since European records were made of Pittwater mention of flood tides and storms, particularly the Hawkesbury River and Palm Beach end, at Bayview, at Newport and Warriewood as well as the Narrabeen Lagoon and the Collaroy beachfront have been recorded, along with all they brought with them, think 'Haystack Point' at Newport, or even a crop of melons turning up on Avalon Beach. Coupled with seasonal king tides and storm front waves, the flow of water has shaped the area we live in. At Narrabeen, if not noted in the meaning of 'lagoon' (an area of shallow water separated from the sea by low sandy dune), there were eyes enough to have witnessed what occurs as part of these places natural and seasonal cycles are not helped to flow. 

Although many of these storms occurred during Winter, June in particular as the seasons shifted over as that switch from the last warm Autumn days to 'yes, cold days are here', the stretch from February to April also brought with it storms large enough to bring about weather events that were noted in what occurred and how they were responded to - more recent ones even stick in peoples memories - the melon tide on Avalon Beach in 1949 being recalled by residents in interviews from a mere 10 years ago.

On the banks of the Narrabeen Lagoon, a pretty extensive and romantic sheet of water situated about nine miles from Manly Cove, and communicating with the ocean in high floods there is a small extent of superior land for cultivation with a considerable tract of very fair pasture land belonging to the family of the late Mr. Jenkins, of Sydney ; and about three miles farther on, towards the head of Pitt Water, there is a very fair cultivation farm leased to a small settler of the name of Foley. Colonial Statistics. (1838, February 28).The Colonist (Sydney, NSW : 1835 - 1840), , p. 2. Retrieved  from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article31720524 

A reset of Pittwater Online's June 2016 Storm history page - with extras.

Environment Saving Grevillea Caleyi: Join The Baha’i Temple Bushcare Group - Monday 17 February, from 8.30 am to 11.30 am, Curl Curl Clean Up: Feb 23 - NB Clean Up Crew, North Narrabeen Beach Clean: March 1, Rock Platform Tour March 21, Gould's Petrels Breed On Broughton Island After 10 Years, More About Gould's Petrel, Woolworths Foodbank And WWF-Australia Band Together To Support Wildlife, Stocky Galaxias Rescued From Fire Affected Creek, Action To Improve Water Quality In The Richmond, Detection Dogs Track Down Rare Orchid, Illegal Behaviour Hampers Fire Recovery Efforts, NSW Government Opens The Floodgates For Irrigators To Profit From The Barwon-Darling River System, Leaked Report Should Be The Nail In The Coffin For Liddell Power Station, Farmers Fear Whitehaven May Have Contaminated River System, NT Offsets Scheme Set To Fail: Protect Country Alliance, Gosford Economy Waste Group Fined $15,000 For Licence Breach, Central Coast Waste Facility Fined $15,000 For Over-Height Stockpiles, EPA Action Over Central Coast Council Sewage Leak, Bushcare In Pittwater, Gardens And Environment Groups and Organisations In Pittwater, Pittwater Reserves, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon February 2020 Forum - Catchment Secrets Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment: Discoveries So Far In The 21st Century, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment: Bushwalks 2020, PNB 1st Meeting For 2020: Habitat Protection

Park Bench Philosopher To Save These Threatened Seahorses We Built Them 5-Star Underwater Hotels: Hippocampus whitei - 'Whites seahorse' by David Harasti, Southern Cross University; Michael Simpson, University of Sydney; Rebecca L. Morris, University of Melbourne, and Ross Coleman, University of Sydney

Inbox News Productivity Commission Report Exposes Falling Government Support For GPs and Their Patients: AMA, Can A River Sing? ANU Researchers Say ‘Absolutely’, Feel Like You’re A Mozzie Magnet? It’s True – Mosquitoes Prefer To Bite Some People Over Others, Oral Traditions And Volcanic Eruptions In Australia, 'Rule Breaking' Plants May Be Climate Change Survivors, Australia To Host World Leaders At Innovation Summit, 'Women My Age Tend To Drink -- It's Normal', Orb-Weaver Spiders' Yellow And Black Pattern Helps Them Lure Prey, 1 In 15 Hospitalisations Could Be Prevented Through Early Health Interventions

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update: February 16th, 2020

Click on Logo to access latest PON: 


To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Jason Falinski Fights For Wakehurst Parkway Upgrades

February 14, 2020: from Mr Falinskis 'office
Member for Mackellar, Mr Jason Falinski MP is campaigning to have the Wakehurst Parkway upgraded. The Northern Beaches community have been demanding this for years and Mr Falinski is arguing that following the recent storms, the flaws of the road corridor are yet again exposed.

“It is absurd that with even the slightest of rainfall, we lose one our main roads. Not only is it inconvenient, but it’s dangerous. We are lucky to have a state-of-the-art hospital in Frenchs Forest, however access becomes very difficult when this road is blocked.” Mr Falinski said

“Currently, it is a two-lane road, which is grossly inadequate to cope with the volume of traffic it receives, not to mention when there are car crashes.”

“It needs to be flood proof and it needs to be widened.”

Mr Falinski has already begun conversations with the Minister for Urban Infrastructure, the Hon Alan Tudge MP who indicated funding for the study could be made available through the Federal Government’s $4 billion Urban Congestion Fund.

Mr Falinski has also contacted the New South Wales Minister for Roads and Transport, the Hon Andrew Constance MP and implored him to ask Minister Tudge for the funding.

“I have written to Minister Constance on behalf of my community imploring him to work with the Federal Government to get a feasibility study underway and then get this project going.”

Mr Falinski has said he is willing and able to facilitate a meeting between the two Ministers.

Photo: Jason Falinski MP at the Wakehurst Parkway

Shark On Station Beach: NSW DPI

Pittwater Online contacted the department of Primary Industries (DPI) this week in relation to the shark on Station Beach - found Saturday February 8th, 2020.

"NSWDPI fisheries officers were advised of one shark washed up on Palm Beach on Saturday." a NSWDPI Spokesperson said.

"The shark is a 2.9m female bull shark. The cause of death is unknown.  A necropsy will be done at a later date to try and determine the possible cause of death." the NSWDPI Spokesperson stated.

Pittwater Online has requested the results of that necropsy be forwarded when the report is available.



More Bull Sharks Seen In Pittwater This Morning: Saturday February 15th, 2020

Pittwater residents might like to think twice about taking a dip at Clareville or off boats at this time. Apparently a paddle boarder at Paradise Beach was harassed by 4 Bull Sharks this morning. This report comes from a source we trust.

A dead Goat on Long Reef Beach, two cows on Patonga Beach with bite marks and a dead Bull Shark on Station Beach suggests that everything up the river has flushed out to Pittwater and Broken Bay.

Shark Sightings In Narrabeen Lagoon Reported

Council advised that a shark was sighted in Narrabeen Lagoon near Pittwater Rd bridge early on the morning, of Wednesday, February 12th 2020. Warning signs were erected. 

"Our Beach Services Team is investigating and warning signs are being erected at key points around the lagoon as a precaution." council posted on their Facebook platform.

The sighting follows on from a similar social media report posted on the weekend. That original shark footage, which appeared to show a dorsal fin breaching the waters in the lagoon just metres from the shore, sparked debate online. 

Most viewers were convinced it was indeed a shark, but others were sceptical and claimed the fin was more likely a floating tree branch or surfboard. 

It’s not the first time a shark has been spotted in the area. There have been 12 sightings in the Narrabeen/North Narrabeen area in the last four years, according to the Dorsal Watch, a website dedicated to sharing information about shark sightings.

Among them was a one metre bull shark reportedly spotted at the entrance of Narrabeen Lagoon in April 2016.

‘I saw its dorsal fin chasing a school of what looked like poddy mullet from where I was fishing on the sandbank,’ people told the Dorsal Watch website at the time.

The DPI stated then that aerial contractors had spotted ‘a large figure’ in deep water near Narrabeen shark nets but were unable to identify it, the website stated. 

The DPI Shark Meshing 2018/19 Performance Report records 'Narrabeen 11/03/19 Squatina albipunctata Eastern Angel Shark Alive & Released ' and  'North Narrabeen 28/04/19 Sphyrna zygaena Smooth Hammerhead Dead Yes '.

The lagoon was opened up to the ocean prior to the weekend's heavy rainfall in a bid to reduce the impact of flash flooding on properties in the suburb. 


Photo by and courtesy Phillip O'Sullivan‎ posted on the 2101 Community Page - Narrabeen, North Narrabeen, Elanora, Ingleside

Meanwhile the DPI's SharkSmart program is asking ‏NSW & ACT residents, to share their thoughts on shark mitigation measures.

'Our survey takes around 20 minutes, and you have the opportunity to enter a chance draw at the end to win one of five BCF $100 gift cards.' 
Complete the survey here: https://fal.cn/36uQX

If you would like to learn more about the NSW Shark Management Strategy, please visit the SharkSmart website: NSW SharkSmart

Your Invitation To Be Part Of The Rat Pack 

The Warringah Rugby Club is hosting a breakfast on Saturday 22nd February 2020 at Rat Park @ 9.00am for members of our rugby community considering volunteering at the Club for the 2020 season.
This breakfast is an opportunity to hear about the Rat Pack’s involvement on game day and learn about the exciting benefits you receive as a Rat Park Volunteer Member.

In a Volunteer Showcase in 2019, Life Member Mandy Morton she said: “I have found recently that everyone is so busy they would rather give you a donation than their time, which is a shame as our club survives on their volunteers and those volunteers are rewarded in many ways for their time and effort”.
So what are you waiting for….. COME ALONG to our Volunteer’s Breakfast and learn how you can help out at the Club at home games, we NEED volunteers for:
  • Front Gate
  • Car Parking
  • Game Day Barbecue
  • Merchandise Stand
  • Membership sign up
  • Canteen

If you’re interested in coming along to hear about how you can be involved, please RSVP to
christine@warringahrugby.com.au by Saturday 22 February 2020, we’d love you to be involved in the Club 2020 and become of the Rat Park community.

Newport Residents Association Monthly Meeting: Feb. 18

The next meeting is at 7.00 pm,  on
Tuesday 18th February 2020 ,
Newport Community Centre, The Boulevard, Newport.

Come and discuss matters that affect your Newport

 
Have Your Say on the planning proposal at the corner of Beaconsfield & Queens Pde Newport by clicking here:  DA 2019/1280 60 -62 Beaconsfield Street & 7-13 Queens Parade Newport, New - Demolition works and Construction of a multi unit housing with associated carparking and Landscape works. 
In DA2019/1280 the height exceeds the allowable height of 8.5m as prescribed in the DCP. The proponent has described this increase to 9.6m as minor. There are a number of set-back breaches. There is a major issue with having a vehicle entrance and exit off Beaconsfield Street. Beaconsfield Street is a major traffic thoroughfare to Barrenjoey Road, it is narrow, it has a major school on one side, it is a regular bus route for both City/Manly and school commuters and it has a number of shops near the corner of Kalinya Street. Beaconsfield Street is already a traffic nightmare for Newport residents. 

Have Your Say re the proposed Newport Outdoor Youth Space by clicking here (submissions close on Feb. 16th 2020)
 
Update yourself on Newport matters visit our website: https://newport.org.au/

Sydney Wildlife Mobile Care Unit And Sydney Wildlife Update

On February 3rd, 2020 the Sydney Wildlife Mobile Clinic headed south again to the firegrounds. They went supplied with a multitude of amazing new items they never dreamed of having donated to them.

Troy Animal Healthcare not only donated every product they had on our Wish List but they were hand-delivered by their incredible CEO! These are products that veterinarians have been using to treat wildlife for many years and which are imperative to the successful outcome of many health issues.

Then the lovely Imogen from WVS (Worldwide Veterinary Service) delivered not one, not two, but THREE items that have been on our Wish List for ages! A brand new Olympus microscope, a nebuliser and a centrifuge! The volunteer veterinarians are so excited to have these items on board!

Thank you, Nic and Imogen - you are both legends! And huge thanks to Lisa and Richard Johnston for getting us all in contact with each other.

Full Update HERE - extracts below. 
All photos by Lynleigh Grieg and Sydney Wildlife volunteers


Dr Margot receiving the microscope, centrifuge and nebuliser from Imogen from WVS. Thank you so much!


Back into the firegrounds

They have had the honour of working with Dr Michelle Oakley (Yukon Vet) and Dr Jamie Peyton and her husband, Professor Eric Johnson - all the way from Canada. Wildlife Rescue South Coast kindly hosted them all again. 


Dr Michelle Oakley with some of her fans 

Dr Peyton is an award-winning burns specialist who is using ground-breaking methods on burns victims.


Dr Michelle, Dr Margot, Jenna and Sierra in the Mobile Care Unit.


Dr Peyton giving a report to the team after doing rounds.

An MTV clip of Sydney Wildlife Mobile Clinic rescuers and carers in action has been shown on the screen in Town Hall Railway Station this week.The MTV Sydney Wildlife clip is available at: HERE

BTW Sydney Wildlife don't need any craft - pouches etc. They do need donations to run the Mobile Clinic van, telephones, buy supplies, equipment and food for wildlife though.

You can contribute towards saving our wildlife at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/22abqws


Sydney Wildlife Sends Help To Kangaroo Island

Last week Sydney Wildlife volunteers ‘hi-jacked’ a private jet bound for fire-ravaged Kangaroo Island and filled it with everything from possum boxes to bird feeders, water-stations to joey pouches! And a large quantity of medical supplies provided by MediDivert (a system started by their own Anne Jackson where hospital items destined for landfill get diverted to those in need).

HUGE thanks to hard-working volunteers Lorraine, Margaret, Sarah, Anne x 2, the wonderful ARC and the pilot, Richard, ensured that all the supplies reached the RSPCA on Kangaroo Island where they will be disseminated around the island for use by wildlife in need.
Lorraine and Anne with MediDivert items.
Margaret with Anne and her husband who made these beautiful bird feeders possum boxes and dreys (nests for ringtails).
Loading up the jet with supplies for fire-affected wildlife in need.
RSPCA member at KI with Richard - the pilot of the jet.

Want To Help Our Wildlife As A Carer ? Here's How;

Australia Post To Release Stamps For Disaster Relief

February 13, 2020
Australia Post will this month release a special edition Disaster Relief stamp pack, to raise funds for the Red Cross Disaster Relief and Recovery Fund.

Australia Post will donate $2 to the Red Cross from every stamp pack sold, to go towards the on-the-ground support for communities impacted by the bushfires and other disasters when they happen.

There will be 100,000 Disaster Relief stamp packs produced, each containing five unique stamps, all die-cut in the shape of Australia and featuring imagery of natural disasters.

Group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Christine Holgate said heartfelt thoughts were with the countless Australians and communities who have been so harshly affected by the recent bushfires.

“As with all natural disasters, the impacts of this crisis are both immediate and long lasting. The recovery effort will take time, and we know the support the Red Cross provides to those affected will be critical in the months ahead as they begin to rebuild.

“The Post Office is a vital part of the local community, particularly in rural and regional Australia, and we are committed to doing everything that we can to support our communities in their recovery,” Ms Holgate continued.

Australian Red Cross Chief Executive Officer Judy Slatyer said the ongoing community response to the bushfires had been incredible.

“The funds raised through the Disaster Relief stamps will help keep our staff and volunteers on the ground helping those affected by the bushfires, providing practical, local support where it's needed to tens of thousands of people during and after the emergencies,” Ms Slatyer said.

The special release stamp packs retail for $5.50 and will be available from 18 February at participating Post Offices, while stocks last.

Customers wishing to make a further donation to the Red Cross can do so over-the-counter at Post Offices.

More than $1.1 million has so far been accepted by Australia Post and transferred to the Australian Red Cross.

For more information about stamp releases please visit auspost.com.au/postagestamps.

Crack Down On Illegal Fishing At The Entrance

February 10, 2020
NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Fisheries has cracked down on illegal fishing at the Entrance, issuing 39 penalty notices and handing out more than $10,000 in fines to those flouting the rules.

DPI Acting Director Fisheries Compliance, Tony Chen said that during the summer holiday period fishers are drawn to the channel connecting Tuggerah Lake with the ocean, with large numbers of sand whiting, yellowfin bream and tarwhine.

“Unfortunately some of these fishers are tempted to keep prohibited size fish and exceed bag limits and each year multiple calls are made to DPI Fisher’s Watch line from concerned members of the public witnessing this activity,” Mr Chen said.

“This summer more than 20 such reports have been received and since Christmas, DPI Fisheries has been conducting targeted patrols to deal with people fishing illegally.

“Teams of officers have patrolled the known areas of non-compliance day and night to locate and apprehend offenders.”

Mr Chen said fisheries officers had issued 39 penalty notices totalling $10,375 and 54 written warnings for minor offences. Most offences have been for possessing prohibited size fish and failing to pay the fishing fee.

“More than 320 fish have been seized including 143 tarwhine, 102 sand whiting and 52 yellowfin bream,” Mr Chen said.

“Two fishers found with 104 prohibited size fish and another found with 44 prohibited size fish are all expected to be summonsed to court. Another man who allegedly abused and threatened a Fisheries Officer will also be summonsed to court.

“We want people fishing here to abide by the rules and regulations – they are there to protect the marine environment for future generations, so everyone can come to The Entrance and enjoy fishing for years to come.

“People committing offences will be dealt with appropriately and we definitely do not tolerate threatening or abusive behaviour towards our hard working Fisheries Officers.”

If anyone suspects illegal activity in NSW, they should report it to the Fishers Watch phone line on 1800 043 536 or via the DPI Fisheries online Report Illegal Activity Form. These reports immediately send email and SMS notifications to officers in the area affected.

Make A Submission To The NSW Bushfire Inquiry

February 11, 2020
Member for Manly James Griffin has welcomed the opening of submissions to the independent expert inquiry into the 2019-20 bushfire season, which will provide input to NSW ahead of the next bushfire season.

“The Inquiry is welcoming submissions from across the community, from bushfire-affected residents, emergency and support personnel, organisations and the general public,” Mr Griffin said. 

In particular I encourage our local Rural Fire Service brigades and volunteers to share their expert knowledge to ensure we are best prepared for the next bushfire season.” 

The Inquiry will also be travelling to bushfire affected communities to meet with and hear directly from people who have been impacted. The Inquiry will inform local communities ahead of all visits to ensure it reaches as many people as possible. 

How to make a submission 

Your response and feedback will help to inform the Inquiry's report. Submissions are encouraged to refer to the Inquiry's Terms of Reference

Respondents can use the online form to make a submission. You can also provide your feedback by: 
  • Email: inquiries@bushfireinquiry.nsw.gov.au
  • Post: NSW Independent Bushfire Inquiry, GPO Box 5341, Sydney NSW 2001
  • Phone: If you have limited computer or internet access you can make a submission over the phone by calling the Bushfire Customer Care program on 13 77 88
  • In-person: at any Service NSW service centre or at a Mobile Service Centre
Submissions close Friday 27 March 2020.

‘Better Off With You’ Campaign Takes A New Approach To Suicide Prevention On The Northern Beaches

Sydney’s Northern Beaches is one of two Australian communities chosen to appear front and centre of a new suicide prevention campaign pilot delivered by national mental health charity SANE Australia, in partnership with Sydney North Health Network (Northern Sydney PHN). Launched on Wednesday 22 January 2020 for a six-week campaign, Better Off With You features three real stories told by people with experience of suicidal thoughts and attempts.

Jack Heath, SANE Australia CEO, said the new campaign takes an innovative approach to reaching local people who may be contemplating suicide. The campaign has been developed to challenge the common misconception held by people with suicidal thoughts that that their friends and family would be better off without them.

“Feeling like a burden on friends and family is an aspect of suicidal thinking that is rarely discussed but arises far more often than people realise,” Mr Heath said.

“There are more than 500,000 Australians alive today who have attempted suicide at some stage in their lives. Sadly, we know that for many people who attempt or go on to take their own lives, feeling like a burden can be a major contributing factor. When you feel like a burden, it’s easy to lose perspective of the positive things you bring to the lives of those around you.”

“By sharing real stories from people who considered ending their lives because they felt they were a burden, we have the opportunity to reach people feeling the same way today, to let them know that they are not alone, inspire hope and encourage them to seek support.”

The powerful video stories can be viewed on the Better Off With You campaign website, betteroffwithyou.org.au, together with support information and a listing of local services.

The prevention of suicide is an important issue on the Northern Beaches. The Better Off With You campaign contributes to community awareness strategies in the Northern Beaches Suicide Response.

If you or anyone you know needs help, please contact:
1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732
Lifeline on 13 11 14
Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
BeyondBlue on 1300 22 46 36
Headspace on 1800 650 890

ABHS Summer Hours

After another very successful year (our 36th) the Avalon Beach Historical Society has gone into its usual summer recess until March 2020.
That doesn’t mean we’ll be out of range until then.

The Society has its office at 15 Bowling Green Lane and is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Geoff is available most Saturdays from 10am to 1pm and keen to help answer any questions and discuss matters of a historic nature.

The Society conducts 4 meetings each year. Speakers on local historic topics and experiences are the usual drawcards. 

Geoff and John also run some old fashioned ‘slide nights’ in a digital format on the big screen at the Avalon Beach Bowling Club or, as it’s more popularly known, the ‘Bowlo’. They usually feature recent acquisitions by the Society or early ‘forgotten’ photos unearthed from the huge collection as it is progressively digitised.

If you or your family have any photos of early Avalon Beach from any era, the Society would love the opportunity to scan them and add them to the collection. They can then be used for research, exhibition or as an educational tool when Geoff visits the local schools to give one of his many talks.
Even if you now live out of the area you can email Geoff: geoff@abhs.org.au

To see some of the great photos we have in the collection check out our website under Avalon Beach Historical Society or go to abhs.org.au 

Geoff Searl OAM
President
Avalon Beach Historical Society

VALE: Doreen Gladys Cherry OAM 

(nee Boyle)
20/01/1927 – 05/02/2020, surrounded by loving family.

Devoted wife of the late John William Cherry.
Loving mother of Wendy and Rosemary, adored Grandmother to Elissa, Heath, Amelia, Imogen, Luke and Sarah, “GG” to Lillian, Felix, Reuben, Finn, Lyla, Emily and Hudson.

Sister to Roy, mother in law to John, grandmother in law to Ben, Elliott, Amanda, aunt to Peter.
An inspiration to all.

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend a celebration of Doreen’s life, 11 am, 17th February St Mark’s Anglican Church, Avalon Beach and the Stella Room, Avalon RSL.


Photo: Doreen with Her Excellency (then) NSW Governor Marie Bashir at Avalon Tattoo reception, 16th of June, 2012. 

Saving Grevillea Caleyi: Join The Baha’i Temple Bushcare Group

Bush regeneration at the Baha'i Temple is on again, so please join us on Monday 17 February, from 8.30 am to 11.30 am

Meet on site at the picnic shelter at 8.30 am. New volunteers welcome, training will be provided. Wear long trousers, a long sleeved shirt and boots or closed in shoes.The session will be cancelled in the event of rain. For more information contact David Palmer on 0404 171 940.

Saving Grevillea Caleyi: Join The Baha’i Temple Bushcare Group - Profile


Grevillea caleyi, now critically endangered. Image taken in Bush at Ingleside/Terrey Hills verges - picture by A J Guesdon

Pittwater Natural Heritage Association Bird Walks And Talks Next Weekend

PNHA Activities for 2020, will be on Fridays and Sundays. The first is on Friday February 21, 2020. Free guided Irrawong Waterfall Track walk. Booking through Eventbrite

Free guided Irrawong Waterfall Track bird and plant walk on Sunday February 23rd, 2020Booking through Eventbrite.

The Pittwater Natural Heritage Association has been formed to act to protect and preserve the Pittwater areas major and most valuable asset – its natural heritage.

PNHA is an incorporated association seeking broad based community membership and support to enable it to have an effective and authoritative voice speaking out for the preservation of Pittwater’s natural heritage. Please contact us for further information.

Visit: www.pnha.org.au

Our aims:

  • To raise public awareness of the conservation value of the natural heritage of the Pittwater area: its landforms, watercourses, soils and local native vegetation and fauna.
  • To raise public awareness of the threats to the long-term sustainability of Pittwater’s natural heritage.
  • To foster individual and community responsibility for caring for this natural heritage.
  • To encourage Council and the NSW Government to adopt and implement policies and works which will conserve, sustain and enhance the natural heritage of Pittwater.


Photo by Neil Fifer

Help Asked To Find House Constructed In The 1960s Around A Tree

Dear Pittwater Online News
I'm wondering if one of your readers remembers a house built in the early 60s.  This house was special because it was built around a tree.

My father was a welder constructing the steel frame around the tree, a crane had to be used and it was on the cliff edge.

My father is in his 80s now and we'd love to go for a drive and have a look to see his handywork or if it even still stands.  He can't remember the address and the area has changed a lot.

Hoping someone knows...

Thanks,
Kind regards,

Diana

If anyone can help Diana and her father please email pittwateronlinenews@live.com.au and we'll pass on the information - thanking you in advance

Possum Bucket

In our Pittwater Online office grounds - one benefit of all this rain; possums among our plants!
This bucket was empty a few days ago...

Pittwater Friends Of Soibada Annual General Meeting

Monday, February 24, 2020 at 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Avalon Beach RSL Club
1 Bowling Green Lane, Avalon
Our annual general meeting is followed by an information session open to members of the public who are interested in becoming members or just hearing more about us.

In 2020 PFOS celebrates its 10th Anniversary. 

A Songs for Soibada will also be held later this year.
More in this news service next Issue: No 439

Avalon Beach Toastmasters Annual Speech Contest

Hosted by Avalon Beach Toastmasters Club
Tuesday, February 25, 2020 at 6:45 PM – 9:15 PM
Avalon Beach Toastmasters Club
1 Bowling Green Lane Avalon Beach

Once a year, we hold a contest for motivational speeches and evaluations, and February 25 is that that night. Come along and enjoy!  

Not interested in watching a contest? Please visit us at our next regular meeting, Tuesday 10 March, where everyone will be able to participate. Looking forward to meeting you.

Find out more at:  www.avalontoastmasters.org.au


Mona Vale Girl Guides District AGM 2020

Hosted by Mona Vale Girl Guides
Monday, March 16, 2020 at 6 PM – 8 PM
Mona Vale Girl Guides
Kitchener Park, Barrenjoey Rd, Mona Vale
Bingo cards and grazing platters are provided.
All the family is welcome: parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, grandparents!

Come along and
  • see what our Mona Vale District has been doing; 
  • thank the volunteers who run the units;
  • contribute ideas for 2020;
  • volunteer for a role at Mona Vale for 2020;
  • meet other parents in your Guiding community; and
  • have fun while playing Bingo & grazing from platters!

About Mona Vale Girl Guides
We are a leadership organisation for girls and young women. We run 3 "units" for girls during school terms (and school holiday camps). The program is girl-led and ranges from camping and outdoor adventure, to learning to work in teams, social skills, fun with the arts, global citizenship and more! We are a not-for-profit community-minded organisation and accept girls from all cultures, backgrounds and spiritual beliefs.

At Mona Vale, we run:
"Junior Guides" (for girls aged 7-10) Monday 4pm - 5.30pm
"Guides" (for girls aged 10-14) Monday 6pm - 8pm
"Senior Guides" (for girls aged 14-18) Fortnightly Tuesdays 7pm - 9pm

We also offer volunteer leadership opportunities for women aged 18-100!

Call our District Manager on 0403 556 131.

We hire our hall for one off and long term hires. Contact our Hall Booking Officer on 0403 556 131 for availability and rates. 

Medium Density Creep

A proposed Development in North Avalon has attracted residents' attention during the past weeks.

The Proposal has been supported by council’s Urban Design Officer who states that ‘the development represents a moderate intensification of the site which is comparable to similar developments in the local area’. 

The proposal is for Medium Density Seniors Units Proposed for Low Density North Avalon. Currently Pittwater Local Environmental Plan 2014 (PLEP) applies to the land with R2 Low Density/Residential being in place: (Land Zoning Map - Sheet LZN_016).

The proponent built a similar development, ‘Drift’, at 2/4-6 Bangalley Way Avalon Beach, an over-55s development, where four townhouses and four single-level apartments were built on 2000sqm. 

The request relates to an application for demolition works, tree removal, site consolidation and the construction of ten self-contained dwellings for seniors or people with a disability with 15 car parking spaces at 27 and 29 North Avalon Road, Avalon Beach. The development relies on the provisions of State Environmental Planning Policy (Housing for Seniors or People with a Disability) 2004 (SEPP HSPD).

The proposed development was subject of a pre-lodgement meeting the Urban Design officer had with the applicant held in February 2019.

Residents who live in the proximity were advised by a Notification Letter received on January 7th, 2020, with submissions due by January 28th and then found the listed contact person in regards to this DA was on leave until the beginning of February.

Readers may remember a similar development proposed for Crystal Bay in 2018 was rejected by council then passed by the state government’s Sydney North Planning Panel, wherein its first Determination for the Pittwater LEP was for it to be Amended to facilitate that Crystal Bay Seniors Housing Development.

Although this DA is past the notification period you can make a comment to the NBC by quoting DA2019/1260. Lodge online at: https://eservices.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/ePlanning/live/Public/XC.Track/SearchApplication.aspx?id=1745712

If you wish to make a general comment or to contact the Council, please email council@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au quoting the relevant application number.

NB: Pittwater Local Environmental Plan 2014
Current version for 15 January 2020 to date (accessed 8 February 2020)
Land Use Table  Zone R2
Zone R2   Low Density Residential
1   Objectives of zone
•  To provide for the housing needs of the community within a low density residential environment.
•  To enable other land uses that provide facilities or services to meet the day to day needs of residents.
•  To provide for a limited range of other land uses of a low intensity and scale, compatible with surrounding land uses.
2   Permitted without consent
Home businesses; Home occupations
3   Permitted with consent
Bed and breakfast accommodation; Boarding houses; Boat sheds; Building identification signs; Business identification signs; Centre-based child care facilities; Community facilities; Dual occupancies; Dwelling houses; Environmental protection works; Exhibition homes; Group homes; Health consulting rooms; Home-based child care; Home industries; Jetties; Oyster aquaculture; Places of public worship; Pond-based aquaculture; Respite day care centres; Roads; Secondary dwellings; Tank-based aquaculture; Veterinary hospitals; Water recreation structures
4   Prohibited
Any development not specified in item 2 or 3

DoggieRescue.com

Pets of the Week


Bambi


AGE/SEX: 8 weeks / F
BREED: Staffy X Foxy?
Bambi and Bubba came from the pound with their Mum Bella, also on our web site. Bella is only 13.8kg so we are not expecting the pups to be much bigger. Bambi and Bubba are healthy playful pups wo are currently enjoying the company of other pups of similar age and having some play dates with Mum so she can continue to teach them things. She comes with puppy vaccinations, wormed, heartworm free, with desexing and microchipped. Her adoption cost is $600. 

Dustin

Hey there!! My name is Dustin and I've lived my whole life at the cottage. My mum is Eleven, and siblings are Barb and Nancy. My mum was left outside the pound in a plastic bag heavily pregnant.

Growing up at The Cottage Animal Hospital (our vet clinic) I am used to other animals and have learnt to eat nicely out of a bowl, use a litter tray and play with other kittens. If you could be the hooman for me, give the cottage a call.  I am 3-4 months old.

He comes with desexing, wormed, F3 vaccinated and microchipped. Adoption fee is $220.

If you are interested in meeting him, please contact DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email cats@doggierescue.com.

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

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

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

Gotcha4Life Fun Run 2020

The Gotcha4Life Fun Run (formally known as The Cliffside Festival) is in its 3rd year and taking place on March 22nd 2020. Enjoy the picturesque loop course along the Long Reef headland and up to Collaroy. Finish back at Griffith Park where the fun continues. Relax in the chill zone or challenge yourself to the climbing wall. Enjoy sumptuous food from our selection of gourmet food trucks. Click on the link https://gotcha4lifefunrun.org/signup to register.

Take And Make Boomerang Bag Kits At Newport Red Cross Shop

Kick the plastic habit! Take the materials and instructions to make your own bag thanks to Avalon Boomerang Bags and Newport Red Cross shop - which is stocking these.

Bilpin Bushfire Relief Raffle

We are running this online raffle until the 18th of Feb. all the funds go through the HumaneSociety For Animal-Rescue, but we are personally locating people and organisations in the Bilpin area that are rescuing and rehabilitating wildlife, finding out what resources and help they need and channelling funds to them. Plus, we are gathering names of tradies and suitable volunteers for working bees. 

There are some great prizes, they include one full day of building work (1 builder, 2 tradesman), a fully catered private ferry adventure, a cooking course, Patonga Boathouse Vouchers with ferry tickets and many more..

Click this link to buy tickets.. https://www.rafflelink.com.au/bilpinwildlife

 Billy Bragg

Water For Brewarinna Update

Last Issue Pittwater Online reported on the initiative undertaken by the Aboriginal Support Group - Manly Warringah Pittwater (ASGMWP) members and supporters to send water to Brewarinna as part of this year's Bush to Beach 2020  celebration.

The ASG Committee sent through a message this week to their supporters: 'Thank you, 2500 litres from donations. Don't stop now!'

From Bre Bruce Shillingsworth, said recently:

#YaamaNgunnaBaaka 
Busy couple of days delivering 15L water bottles throughout the Brewarrina Community especially to the Elders and those on dialysis.

Hopefully this will go some way to helping the people before clean drinking water becomes available again. Those of you with water bottles please keep for refills, we don’t want to have plastic waste #SavingOurWater #NoPlasticWaste
Special thanks to
-Neil and the Northern Beaches mob
- and Robert and staff from IGA in Bourke for their support.



On Friday January 24th the ASGMWP sent another $340.00 to Uncle Bruce for water.

If you want to help send water to Brewarinna, donations can be sent to ASGMWP - Commonwealth Bank
BSB: 062 155 Account No: 00906332 - please put your name and 'Bre Water' in the reference.

When The River Runs Dry

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Bayview Church Point Residents Association AGM's Are Held In March

Held in March each year: 7.00 p.m. for 7.30
At BYRA: 1842 Pittwater Rd,  Bayview 
We invite all adult residents of Bayview and Church Point to become members of the Residents Association. Membership forms are available on the night of the AGM.

Whether you are a new member or looking to renew your membership with us, you can download the Subscription Form from our website, complete the details and return to us at either bvcpra@gmail.com or the postal address on the form.

Members socialise at the AGM and if significant matters are to be dealt with during the year, further meetings are called. We include Guest Speakers at such meetings and include Question and Answer time. Regular information Updates are emailed and/or posted to members.

Our core ethos/function is to be ever vigilant in preserving the magnificent area in which we are blessed to live, to look after one another without political or religious bias and to generally support good government and their decisions.
Fore more information please visit: https://bcpra.wordpress.com/

Mona Vale Hospital Kiosk Volunteer Needed + MVHA Stalls 2020

The kiosk is looking for a casual volunteer to help on Saturdays when needed.  No experience is needed and the hours are 9am to 3pm or the shift can be split in half.  Please call Pooja, the manager on 9998 6044, Monday, Wednesday or Fridays.


MVHA Stalls to June 2020
Pittwater Place, Mona Vale. 
Selling knitting, sewing, craft, books and jam. 9am to 3pm.
February 1st, March 7th. April 4th, May 2nd, June 6th

Bunnings, Narrabeen.
Sausage sizzles 8am to 3pm.
February 8th, March 14th, April 11th, May 9th, June 6th.




Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary

Pittwater International Women’s Day Breakfast Wednesday 4 March 2020 7am At Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club

Bookings are now open for the Pittwater International Women’s Day Breakfast on Wednesday 4th March 2020.  The Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Inc will host this annual breakfast at The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, 16 Mitala St, Newport.  

The guest speaker at the breakfast will be Lucy Brogden AM.  Lucy has a strong commitment to helping others.  Her primary areas of focus are issues facing Women and Girls, and Mental Health and Wellbeing, particularly in the workplace.  She takes an evidenced based approach to problem solving and social investment.  The 2020 Pittwater Woman of the Year will be announced at the breakfast by Rob Stokes, Member for Pittwater. 

Lucy has more than 25 years’ experience commercial experience with companies including, Macquarie Group and Ernst & Young, working in accounting, finance and organisational psychology.   Specifically, Lucy has worked in trusted advisory roles with some of Australia’s leading CEO’s, Managing Partners, Ministers and Chairs. Amongst many other positions Lucy is Chair & Commissioner, National Mental Health Commission.

Lucy was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in the 2019 Australia Day Honours " For significant service to workplace mental health and wellbeing”.  Lucy will speak on her life story.

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches is a member of Zonta International which is a global organisation of executives and professionals working together to advance the status of women worldwide through service and advocacy. Zonta International is affiliated at the United Nations with other major women’s organisations.  

This breakfast marks International Women's Day (8 March). It is a day to acknowledge women's contribution to making Australia, and the world, a better place.  Everyone is invited to celebrate the day. 
The IWD Breakfast will be held at The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club at 7am till 9am on Wednesday 4 March 2020. The cost is $50pp.  

The delightful location looks over the waters of Pittwater and across to Bayview and Scotland Island. The breakfast is always well attended by the local community.  Everyone is invited to attend and men are particularly welcome. Please book early as this events may fill quickly.
Enquiries to pittwateriwdbreakfast@gmail.com or Susie 0413 623 392.  

Proceeds from the breakfast will support service projects of Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Inc assisting local women in need, and Zonta International projects in developing countries. Come by yourself, bring a friend or make up a table of 8 to 10.  We will seat you. Please book by 22 February.
For full booking details please see the flyer for this event.

Please Register Wildlife Road Strikes

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

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

The RMS are using this information to plan mitigation. So please, if you can, add the information in directly.

February 9 - 15, 2020: Issue 437

This Issue

Front Page Issue 437 

Aquatics Team Navy ASRL Open 2020 Set for Mollymook: The ASRL Open also will also host the 2020 Interstates Competition, with five local club crews representing NSW once again this year - The event runs next weekend. Pittwater Online had a chat with Newport Sweep Michael King about Newport Thunder, Aussies 2019 Gold Medallists, who have been consistent in local carnivals all Season

Australian Sailing Team At 2020 49er and Nacra 17 World Championships - Hosted By Royal Geelong Yacht Club: the 49er, 49erFX and the Nacra 17 World Championships will be held from February 8 to 15, 2020

Newport Breakers Rugby Club BlazeAid Volunteers Make A Difference At Braidwood Rebuilding Fences and Installing A Wildlife Enclosure For Injured Animals and Orphaned Kangaroos

Moonen Yachts Takes On Naming Rights For Sydney To Auckland Ocean Race 2021 by Di Pearson

Pictures Rain, Glorious RainWith so many blue skies and sunshine photos shared here over the years, dawns, dusks, yachts in full flight - a few sights seen on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, long awaited, feature this week + has another large chunk of rock fallen from North Avalon Headland? 

DIY Ideas DIY FlyscreensAh, Summer, when large cicadas fly in through the open window and have to be rescued from your dog, when katydids whizz in and climb the walls with their gossamer wings then pause, stilled, so all the little boys and girls can say 'ooo' and 'ahh', and then that whine at midnight, that dive bombs at your ears, does laps of your arms, poised to strike with a mosquito bite. Just as persistent are flies, drawn in by pet food, or simply blown in by the wind ...and then we have those large bush cockroaches that will also just fly right in and make themselves at home.

Reflections by George Repin EPHESUS – SOME PLACES OF INTEREST

Profile Guringai Aboriginal Tours

Website: www.guringaitours.com.au

We welcome you to Guringai Country. We pay our respects to our ancestors. We pay our respects to elders past and present.

Guringai Aboriginal Tours is an Aboriginal owned and operated tour company offering 3.5 hour cultural tours in Ku-ring- gai Chase National Park.

Guringai Aboriginal Tours was established in 2009 by Laurie Bimson a descendant of Bungaree, leader of the Guringai tribe at the time of European arrival. Laurie established the tours as a meaningful way to provide cultural education and to keep the Guringai traditions alive. Laurie is extremely passionate about sharing culture with students and visitors alike, to broaden people’s understanding of Aboriginal culture and the Guringai peoples.

Tours are available for Individual, Groups and for School Education excursions.

As well as conducting the Tours Laurie offers a variety of Services, including Smoking Ceremony, Traditional Art for Schools.

New tour dates: February 16th and March 8th, 2020 - Book Hereg being home.

History Ella McFadyen's Love Of Pittwater: An Environment, Wildlife and Children's Champion - Although Ella McFadyen covered a lot of ground, literally and in the physical sense, during her time; travelling throughout rural New South Wales and Queensland, in the Pacific to the Solomons and New Guinea in 1925, to Europe for another 'break', one of the places she visited frequently as a Boomerang Walking Club member, and for respite, was Pittwater.

Ella McFadyen (1887-1976) was a journalist, editor, writer of books for children, poet and amateur photographer with a passion for the environment (and inspiring youngsters to be amongst this through forming the Boomerang Walking Clubs), a deep love for animals, and sharing insights about the natural world with children. She conducted the Children’s Page of the Sydney Mail (as “Cinderella”) until that publication finished in 1938 and also wrote for the Sydney Morning Herald Women’s Thursday section, Australian Town and Country Journal and many other newspapers and magazines.

Her love of the great outdoors and Australia's wildlife, and sharing that with children, features in just about everything she did and wrote, while her passion for photography captured scenes and animals of here we may not recognise in some cases. Ella's words paid numerous tributes to our environment and bore witness to seeing the little things as much as the great landmarks that have not changed much since she first visited. Her responses to her child and young adult readers spoke of the peninsula and shared tidbits of information on everything from the flowers to the Seasons and weather and what can be found where.

Environment Bangalley Head Landcare Group: Feb 9, Curl Curl Clean Up: Feb 23 - NB Clean Up Crew, North Narrabeen Beach Clean: March 1, Rock Platform Tour March 21, Water Regulator Launches Two New Prosecutions, Offshore Clean Energy Infrastructure - Proposed Framework: Consultation, Extension To Submissions For EPBC Act Review, Wildlife Care This Summer, Statement From Australia's Natural History Museum Directors: Estimated Trillions Of Animals Lost In Bushfires, Bushfire Brandalism, Wildlife And Conservation Bushfire Recovery, Major Reform To Independent Planning Commission Following Extensive Review, Non-Native Marine Algae Detected In Botany Bay, I Walked 1,200km In The Outback To Track Huge Lizards; Here’s Why, Scientists Find Record Warm Water In Antarctica, Pointing To Cause Behind Troubling Glacier Melt, Looks Like An ANZAC Biscuit, Tastes Like A Protein Bar: Bogong Bikkies Help Mountain Pygmy-Possums After Fire,  Have your say on: Glendell Continued Operations Project (extraction of an additional 140 million tonnes of ROM coal until 2044 at an increased rate of 10 million tonnes per annum) + Modification 4 - VENM/ENM Importation, Increased Trucking And Extension Of Life (importing up to 320,000 tonnes per annum (tpa) of Virgin Excavated Natural Material) + Haerses Road Quarry MOD 3 - Production Increase (Increase extraction rate from 250,000 tpa to 495,000 tpa; increase the amount of clean fill VENM & ENM from 100,000 tpa to 250,000 tpa; and increase truck movements from 56 per day to 180 per day),  Bushcare In Pittwater, Gardens And Environment Groups and Organisations In Pittwater, Pittwater Reserves, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon February 2020 Forum - Catchment Secrets Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment: Discoveries So Far In The 21st Century, Night time Wildlife Walk, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment: Bushwalks 2020, PNB 1st Meeting For 2020: Habitat Protection

Inbox News Federal Government Ministry: February 2020 - full list, Australian Pancreatic Cancer Genome Initiative Contributes To Global Cancer Genome ‘Map’, Orthorexia Nervosa: The Sinister Side Of Healthy Eating, 2019 Federal Election Disclosure Returns Published Today, NSW: Children's Brain Cancer Focus Of $7.1 Million Grants, UNSW Problem Solvers Make Technology Accessible For Everybody, NSW Government To Consolidate Over 500 Websites, New Body To Tackle ADF And Veteran Suicides, Sugar Ants' Preference For Urine May Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Wasp Nests Used To Date Ancient Kimberley Rock Art

Food Perfect Summer Plums Summer plums are appearing in local shops which means the crop is coming in and guarantees good prices and great quality. Plums may have been one of the first fruits domesticated by humans. Three of the most abundant cultivars are not found in the wild, only around human settlements: Prunus domestica has been traced to East European and Caucasian mountains, while Prunus salicina and Prunus simonii originated in Asia. The name plum derived from Old English plume or "plum, plum tree," which extended from Germanic language or Middle Dutch, and Latin prūnum, from Ancient Greek proumnon, believed to be a loanword from Asia Minor. In the late 18th century, the word, plum, was used to indicate "something desirable", probably in reference to tasty fruit pieces in desserts.

Park Bench Philosopher After the fires, a reason for optimism: our civic engagement has never been higher by Anne Tiernan, Professor of Politics. Dean (Engagement) Griffith Business School, Griffith University. This article is based on a longer essay published in the Griffith Review’s latest edition, Matters of Trust.

Artist of the Month February 2020: Kirsten Milenko - Composer

Website: www.kirstenmilenko.com
Soundcloud:  soundcloud.com/kirstenmilenko
On Facebook: www.facebook.com/kirstenmilenko

Kirsten Milenko is an Australian composer based in Copenhagen, Denmark. From her previous studies, she was awarded the 2015 Ignaz Friedman Memorial Prize from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music where she studied under Liza Lim, Natasha Anderson and Rosalind Page.  Premieres of Kirsten’s work have been given throughout Australia and Europe. Her music has received performances by ensembles and orchestras including: Danish National Vocal Ensemble, Esbjerg Ensemble, Scandinavian Guitar Duo, Ensemblage, E-Mex Ensemble, Judgement of Paris Quartet, Adelaide Wind Orchestra, Sydney Conservatorium of Music Wind Symphony, Modest Orchestra. 

On November 23rd 2019 her Symphony d'aere had its South Australian premiere and was one of the featured works performed by the Adelaide Wind Orchestra as part of their Australian Stories concert at the Concordia College Chapel. Violinist Jacqui Carias joined the AWO as guest performer in Symphony d’aere by Kirsten Milenko. This symphonic soundscape was debuted by the Sydney Conservatorium Wind Symphony in 2017, and is inspired by how the environment has been afflicted by humanity.

Kirsten has performed her own work as a pianist at venues such as: Staatsoper Hamburg - Opera Stabile, Associació Cultural Sa Taronja; and conductor at Verbrugghen Hall and the Royal Danish Academy of Music. 

The potential that music holds to link an audience with both the seen and unseen worlds of human perception has been a fundamental point of focus since I first began composing. To present the unknown in a way that entices both curiosity and gentleness of the human spirit is an integral idea constantly present in my work. 

There is poetry between a musician and their instrument which has led to the creation of an ongoing collection entitled the ‘Artefact Series’ as a means of further exploring this dialogue. A series of etudes, sound and movement often hidden beneath broader structures are uncovered to show unique embodiments. Recently, compositions with light have been added to the series. 

I have long been interested in the architecture that music is capable of being. The interplay of movement and sound, both physical and perceived, in the definition of space is a recurring point of focus. -Kirsten Milenko

In 2019 Kirsten was selected for the Roche Young Commission 2021 by Wolfgang Rihm, Artistic Director of Lucerne Festival. The Roche Young Commissions series was established for the first time in 2013 as a new and unique form of cooperation between Roche, Lucerne Festival, and the Lucerne Festival Academy. Roche Young Commissions gives two young composers under the age of 30 the opportunity to write orchestral works every other year alternating with Roche Commissions.

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update: February 1st, 2020

Click on Logo to access latest PON: 


To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Privatisation Of Buses Petition Handed Over Calling On Halt For Plan

NSW Labour leader Jodi McKay was handed a petition by North Shore bus drivers on Thursday February 6th with over 22 thousand signatories calling on the incumbents to cancel their plans to privatise the remainder of Sydney's bus routes, including those in our area.

Jodi McKay then tweeted;
Save our buses!

Today, I was handed a petition with 20,000 signatures opposing the privatisation of bus services in regions in Ryde, Parramatta, Northern Beaches, North Shore and the Eastern Suburbs.

The NSW Parliament will now be forced to debate this issue in March.

Inaugural Rugby 10'S At Newport

February 6, 2020
The Newport Breakers Rugby Club is pleased to announce the inaugural Newport Rugby Tens tournament.

The 10-a-side Rugby tournament involves 16 Teams and will take place over the weekend of March 28th and 29th at Porter Reserve, Newport. Up for grabs is $5,000 in prize money.

11 Teams have signed on with space for another 5 Teams. If your club is interested in playing in the tournament contact president@newportrugby.com.au

For the supporter's entry is free. First kick-off each day will be at 10 am. There will be food stalls, the bar will be open. If the rugby isn’t enough there will also be live music playing, jumping castles, face painting and a kids club.

Courtesy buses between Porters and The Newport will be running.

Clubs participating so far:

Manly Savers Rugby Club
Forest Rugby Club
Newport Breakers Rugby Club
Newport Fiji
Brothers Rugby Club Sydney
Northern Saints Rugby
UNSW Rugby Club
Newport Invitational
Renegades Rugby
Burraneer Rugby (pencilled in)
Waverley Rugby Club


Newport Breakers Rugby Club BlazeAid Volunteers Build Fences-Wildlife Pens

Not a bad roll up from the Breakers to help the cattle farmers of Braidwood. Some of the fences we replaced today (Saturday Feb 1st, 2020) have been in place for 70 or so years!


While half the Newport Breakers Rugby Club crew who travelled down to Braidwood to volunteer with the rebuilding efforts after the bushfires helped to rebuild fences with BlazeAid, the other half helped in building animal enclosures for injured wildlife in the area, particularly orphaned kangaroo joeys. 

We had to bury the wire mesh for the enclosure deep into the ground to stop the foxes digging under it.

Much more than rugby..!!

Want To Help Our Wildlife As A Carer ? Here's How;

Changed Parking At Church Point From 7am Monday 3rd Feb.

Please be aware of the restrictions to parking that will be coming into effect in the old carpark at Church Point due to the Ausgrid Power Reliability Project. These restrictions will start at 7am on Monday (3rd February).



Please ensure your car is not located in the southern end of the carpark from the Pittwater Rd entry. This applies to both Pittwater Rd. rows and waterfront rows of the car park.

During the initial phase, the entry to the carpark will also be closed. After this initial phase (whilst equipment is being brought into the site's compound), the entrance will be reopened.

SIRA has made a representation to Ausgrid to again reiterate our request that the NBN cable be also pulled through the new conduit at the same time. This would mean that NBN Co. are not required to restrict the carpark for a second occasion later to pull their cable through. Ausgrid have said they will investigate this.

Complete Project Update - HERE

News Notice courtesy the PON (above) and SIRA

Fox Baiting Using 1080 Poison In NPWS - GSB Reserves For Six Monthly Period

1 Feb 2020 - 31 July 2020
Please see attached notification of continuous and ongoing fox control using 1080 POISON with ground baits and canid pest ejectors (CPE's) in Sydney Harbour National Park, Garigal National Park, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, and Lane Cove National Park. As part of this program, baiting also occurs on North Head Sanctuary managed by Sydney Harbour Federation Trust and the Australian Institute of Police Management facility at North Head.

Warning signs are displayed at park entrances to notify the public of 1080 baiting.
  • 1080 Poison for fox control is used in these reserves in a continuous and ongoing manner. This means that baits and ejectors (CPE's) remain in the reserves and are checked/replaced every 6 - 8 weeks
  • 1080 use at these locations is in accordance with NSW pesticides legislation, relevant 1080 Pesticide Control Orders and the NPWS Vertebrate Pesticides Standard Operating Procedures
  • A series of public notifications occur on a 6 monthly basis including; alerts on the NPWS website, public notices in local papers, Area pesticide use notification registers and to the NPWS call centre
If you have any further general enquiries about 1080, or for specific program enquiries please contact the local NPWS Area office:

NPWS Sydney North Area (Middle Head) office: 8968 6300
NPWS Sydney North Area (Forestville) office: 9451 3479
NPWS North West Sydney Area (Lane Cove NP) office: 8448 0400
NPWS after-hours Duty officer service: 8579 0537
North Head Sanctuary, Manly (Harbour Trust lands): 8969 2128

Mona Vale Hospital Kiosk Volunteer Needed + MVHA Stalls 2020

The kiosk is looking for a casual volunteer to help on Saturdays when needed.  No experience is needed and the hours are 9am to 3pm or the shift can be split in half.  Please call Pooja, the manager on 9998 6044, Monday, Wednesday or Fridays.


MVHA Stalls to June 2020
Pittwater Place, Mona Vale. 
Selling knitting, sewing, craft, books and jam. 9am to 3pm.
February 1st, March 7th. April 4th, May 2nd, June 6th

Bunnings, Narrabeen.
Sausage sizzles 8am to 3pm.
February 8th, March 14th, April 11th, May 9th, June 6th.




Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary

ABHS Summer Hours

After another very successful year (our 36th) the Avalon Beach Historical Society has gone into its usual summer recess until March 2020.
That doesn’t mean we’ll be out of range until then.

The Society has its office at 15 Bowling Green Lane and is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Geoff is available most Saturdays from 10am to 1pm and keen to help answer any questions and discuss matters of a historic nature.

The Society conducts 4 meetings each year. Speakers on local historic topics and experiences are the usual drawcards. 

Geoff and John also run some old fashioned ‘slide nights’ in a digital format on the big screen at the Avalon Beach Bowling Club or, as it’s more popularly known, the ‘Bowlo’. They usually feature recent acquisitions by the Society or early ‘forgotten’ photos unearthed from the huge collection as it is progressively digitised.

If you or your family have any photos of early Avalon Beach from any era, the Society would love the opportunity to scan them and add them to the collection. They can then be used for research, exhibition or as an educational tool when Geoff visits the local schools to give one of his many talks.
Even if you now live out of the area you can email Geoff: geoff@abhs.org.au

To see some of the great photos we have in the collection check out our website under Avalon Beach Historical Society or go to abhs.org.au 

Geoff Searl OAM
President
Avalon Beach Historical Society

The DY Surf Shop

Published by the Australian National Surfing Museum on January 23, 2020
Australian surfboard building pioneer Denny Keogh and surfer/shaper Mark Rabbidge talk about their memories of the DY Surf Shop Sydney's earliest surf shop: thanks Ronnie Turton for sending in!

Mums For Mums 2020

Have you joined our mailing list yet??
Jump over to the website and sign up to receive our newsletter, and don't miss out on any Mums For Mums events in 2020 - creating a supportive space for mums in our local community!

Visit:

Have Your Say On Western Harbour Tunnel And Warringah Freeway Upgrade

January 29, 2020
The Department of Planning, Industry and Environment is calling for community feedback on plans for the construction and operation of the Western Harbour Tunnel and Warringah Freeway Upgrade Project.

The Department’s Executive Director of Infrastructure Assessments, David Gainsford, said community input is a vital part of the assessment process and encouraged everyone to have their say on the proposal, which is on public exhibition now until Thursday, 12 March 2020.

“The proposal includes the Western Harbour Tunnel, which would stretch from the Warringah Freeway at Cammeray, across Sydney Harbour, connecting to the WestConnex interchange at Rozelle.

“The proposal also includes upgrades to the connection point of the tunnels, at the Warringah Freeway,” Mr Gainsford said.

Designs for the project include plans for a 6.5 kilometre, six-lane tunnel as well as nine kilometres of surface road upgrade, four kilometres of which comprises the Warringah Freeway Upgrade.

If approved, the proposal is predicted to create 7500 full time construction jobs.

“Community input is essential to help us make a thorough and rigorous assessment and ensure potential impacts are fully considered,” Mr Gainsford said. Community members are encouraged to attend Transport for NSW information sessions on the proposal during the 6-week exhibition period at the following locations:
  • Thursday 6 February 2020 4pm – 7pm Balmain Town Hall, 370 Darling Street Balmain
  • Saturday 8 February 2020 11am – 2pm Fred Hutley Hall, 200 Miller Street, North Sydney
  • Thursday 13 February 2020 4pm – 7pm Fred Hutley Hall, 200 Miller Street, North Sydney
  • Saturday 15 February 2020 11am – 2pm Norths, 12 Abbott Street, Cammeray
  • Thursday 20 February 2020 4pm – 7pm Norths, 12 Abbott Street, Cammeray
  • Saturday 22 February 2020 11am – 2pm Balmain Town Hall, 370 Darling Street Balmain.
For more information and to have your say visit the Planning Portal.
The exhibition closes on Thursday 12 March 2020.

Major Reform To Independent Planning Commission Following Extensive Review

February 4, 2020: NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment
The State’s Independent Planning Commission will be overhauled, following an extensive review by the NSW Productivity Commission.

Planning and Public Spaces Minister Rob Stokes said the NSW Government had accepted all of the review’s recommendations.

“The IPC will undergo a significant transformation with new performance benchmarks, streamlined processes, greater accountability, and new Commissioners, to ensure the system works better for everyone,” Mr Stokes said.

“An effective planning system is vital to the health of the NSW economy and the recommendations of the Productivity Commission will increase certainty and confidence in the way planning decisions are made.”

The key changes to the IPC will include:
  • Establishing the IPC as a separate and independent agency, with its chair accountable to the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces and responsible for delivering on the Government’s agreed objectives and performance measures;
  • Clarifying roles - with the IPC to act as a decision-maker on the State’s most controversial projects rather than re-assessing the Department’s technical work;
  • Eliminating bureaucratic double handling with the introduction of a single-stage public hearing process;
  • Ensuring only the most complex and contentious projects are referred to the IPC by raising the referral threshold to 50 unique community objections; and
  • Introducing accountability benchmarks for decision-making timeframes to ensure timely determinations.
“I am pleased the review has reaffirmed the value of independent decision-making for the State’s most complex and contentious projects, but it is clear changes need to be made to ensure greater certainty for people and the community.”

The reform of the IPC will be spearheaded by Acting IPC Chair Peter Duncan AM, who brings extensive agency leadership and reform experience, including as a current Commissioner of the IPC and a former Director General of the Department of Services Technology and Administration NSW, Chief Executive of Roads and Maritime Services, and Deputy Director General of the Department of Premier and Cabinet.

‘Better Off With You’ Campaign Takes A New Approach To Suicide Prevention On The Northern Beaches

Sydney’s Northern Beaches is one of two Australian communities chosen to appear front and centre of a new suicide prevention campaign pilot delivered by national mental health charity SANE Australia, in partnership with Sydney North Health Network (Northern Sydney PHN). Launched on Wednesday 22 January 2020 for a six-week campaign, Better Off With You features three real stories told by people with experience of suicidal thoughts and attempts.

Jack Heath, SANE Australia CEO, said the new campaign takes an innovative approach to reaching local people who may be contemplating suicide. The campaign has been developed to challenge the common misconception held by people with suicidal thoughts that that their friends and family would be better off without them.

“Feeling like a burden on friends and family is an aspect of suicidal thinking that is rarely discussed but arises far more often than people realise,” Mr Heath said.

“There are more than 500,000 Australians alive today who have attempted suicide at some stage in their lives. Sadly, we know that for many people who attempt or go on to take their own lives, feeling like a burden can be a major contributing factor. When you feel like a burden, it’s easy to lose perspective of the positive things you bring to the lives of those around you.”

“By sharing real stories from people who considered ending their lives because they felt they were a burden, we have the opportunity to reach people feeling the same way today, to let them know that they are not alone, inspire hope and encourage them to seek support.”

The powerful video stories can be viewed on the Better Off With You campaign website, betteroffwithyou.org.au, together with support information and a listing of local services.

The prevention of suicide is an important issue on the Northern Beaches. The Better Off With You campaign contributes to community awareness strategies in the Northern Beaches Suicide Response.

If you or anyone you know needs help, please contact:
1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732
Lifeline on 13 11 14
Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
BeyondBlue on 1300 22 46 36
Headspace on 1800 650 890

Wildlife Care This Summer

Some excellent advice from the veterinary team at NEVS in Terrey Hills: Sydney is facing a catastrophic fire danger ratings, with high temperatures, hot gusty winds, and dry conditions. But what does this mean for our wildlife?

Native wildlife are struggling to cope with bushfires combined with habitat loss. Although our wildlife has evolved with fire, urbanisation has made their habitat so limited they are at great risk. During bushfires wildlife are forced to come to the ground where they get hit by cars and attacked by domestic dogs.

We can help our wildlife by creating refuge areas, that are shady, cool and somewhat wet. You can leave out shallow water dishes, and place a rock in them so smaller animals and birds don’t accidentally drown. Keep your dogs contained indoors and away from smoke for their own benefit as much as for the safety of wildlife. Avoid driving into fire areas unnecessarily where wildlife are likely to be present on the roads trying to escape, and instead await updates from online sources. If you encounter any injured or burnt wildlife, take them immediately to a vet hospital that you can safely access. Do not attempt to handle any bats unless you are vaccinated against Lyssavirus (the rabies vaccine covers this virus). Never chase wild animals in an attempt to capture them as they are prone to capture myopathy brought on by stress which is fatal.

For assistance or advice do not hesitate to phone NEVS on 9452 2933 and Sydney Metropolitan Wildlife Service on 9413 4300.


Outdated Live Entertainment Conditions Axed

February 6th, 2020
Issued by Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello
More than 30 venues across NSW can now offer a wider range of live entertainment following the NSW Government’s decision to abolish outdated and unnecessary liquor licence conditions.

Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello said the removal of archaic restrictions since May 2019 supported a vibrant and diverse nightlife and would help live music thrive.

“Many of these conditions were imposed decades ago in another era, but serve no purpose at all today,” Mr Dominello said.

“Some of the greatest bands of all time started their careers in NSW including AC/DC and Midnight Oil. This is another boost for the State’s night time economy, following the introduction of the new lockout laws last month.”

Minister for Tourism Stuart Ayres said that this is another step in opening Sydney up as a 24 hour economy.

“The changes mean some venues can now host gigs for the first time in many years, while others can offer a broader range of music styles. It’s great news for both fans and performers of live music.”

Liquor & Gaming NSW last year offered a special assessment service that waived the usual $110 application fee and used a streamlined process for faster outcomes.

Local police, councils and nearby residents were invited to comment on the proposals to remove or vary conditions. In many cases, restrictive or unnecessary conditions were included in development consents imposed by local councils.

Venues may also have nominated particular types of entertainment when first applying for a liquor licence, and these were listed as conditions ever since.

Venues can apply to Liquor & Gaming NSW at any time to have live entertainment conditions removed. An exposure bill which proposes the removal of further restrictions on live music will be made available for consultation later this month.

Congratulations Bungan Beach SLSC Member Chloe- Junior Life Saver Of The Year: SLS SNB Branch

Congratulations to Chloe Carr who was named as the Sydney Northern Beaches Branch Junior Lifesaver of the Year 2019-20.



This is the first time we have ever had a Bungan member win this prestigious award and wish Chloe all the best as she progresses to the NSW Junior Lifesaver competition.

Congratulations to Chloe, we are incredibly proud of you and you have represented the club and yourself with distinction.

Rod McGibbon
President

Operating since 1953, Bungan Beach SLSC is located between Mona Vale and Newport and is home to 150 active members who safeguard visitors to the beach.

Patrols run on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays from September to April.

Membership/Patrol enquiries:

Training enquiries:

Shark At Station Beach

Photographed 5.40pm, Saturday February 8th - photo courtesy of a Reader

Bayview Golf Club Fundraises For Ingleside RFB

Thanks to Bayview Golf Club members and friends for their generous donation to Ingleside Brigade on Friday, February 7th. 
Over the last few weeks, they raised $4931.80 for Ingleside RFB. 

BIG THANKS to this great club - this money will go to assist to run the Brigade throughout the year.

Pittwater Friends Of Soibada Annual General Meeting

Monday, February 24, 2020 at 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Avalon Beach RSL Club
1 Bowling Green Lane, Avalon
Our annual general meeting is followed by an information session open to members of the public who are interested in becoming members or just hearing more about us.

In 2020 PFOS celebrates its 10th Anniversary. 

A Songs for Soibada will also be held later this year.
More in this news service next Issue.

Pedestrian Safety Improved Near Mona Vale Skate Park

Pedestrians and skateboarders are enjoying safer journeys to and from Mona Vale Skate Park, with pedestrian fencing now installed along Pittwater Road.

The NSW Government provided $120,000 to Northern Beaches Council to complete the important 157 metre safety upgrade, between Mona Vale Road and Turimetta Street.

“Many pedestrians use this busy section of footpath every day – so it’s great to see fencing installed,” Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes said.

“The new fencing will help reduce the risk of crashes and improve safety for pedestrians walking, skating, scooting or riding to and from this popular local facility.

“More than 44,000 vehicles travel along this section of Pittwater Road daily.

“It’s really important pedestrians and park visitors use the nearby pedestrian signals when crossing Pittwater Road at this location,” Rob Stokes said.

The NSW Government will continue working closely with Northern Beaches Council on local projects to improve safety for all road users.

Photo Pedestrian fence near Mona Vale Skate Park:

Medium Density Creep

A proposed Development in North Avalon has attracted residents' attention during the past weeks.

The Proposal has been supported by council’s Urban Design Officer who states that ‘the development represents a moderate intensification of the site which is comparable to similar developments in the local area’. 

The proposal is for Medium Density Seniors Units Proposed for Low Density North Avalon. Currently Pittwater Local Environmental Plan 2014 (PLEP) applies to the land with R2 Low Density/Residential being in place: (Land Zoning Map - Sheet LZN_016).

The proponent built a similar development, ‘Drift’, at 2/4-6 Bangalley Way Avalon Beach, an over-55s development, where four townhouses and four single-level apartments were built on 2000sqm. 

The request relates to an application for demolition works, tree removal, site consolidation and the construction of ten self-contained dwellings for seniors or people with a disability with 15 car parking spaces at 27 and 29 North Avalon Road, Avalon Beach. The development relies on the provisions of State Environmental Planning Policy (Housing for Seniors or People with a Disability) 2004 (SEPP HSPD).

The proposed development was subject of a pre-lodgement meeting the Urban Design officer had with the applicant held in February 2019.

Residents who live in the proximity were advised by a Notification Letter received on January 7th, 2020, with submissions due by January 28th and then found the listed contact person in regards to this DA was on leave until the beginning of February.

Readers may remember a similar development proposed for Crystal Bay in 2018 was rejected by council then passed by the state government’s Sydney North Planning Panel, wherein its first Determination for the Pittwater LEP was for it to be Amended to facilitate that Crystal Bay Seniors Housing Development.

Although this DA is past the notification period you can make a comment to the NBC by quoting DA2019/1260. Lodge online at: https://eservices.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/ePlanning/live/Public/XC.Track/SearchApplication.aspx?id=1745712

If you wish to make a general comment or to contact the Council, please email council@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au quoting the relevant application number.

NB: Pittwater Local Environmental Plan 2014
Current version for 15 January 2020 to date (accessed 8 February 2020)
Land Use Table  Zone R2
Zone R2   Low Density Residential
1   Objectives of zone
•  To provide for the housing needs of the community within a low density residential environment.
•  To enable other land uses that provide facilities or services to meet the day to day needs of residents.
•  To provide for a limited range of other land uses of a low intensity and scale, compatible with surrounding land uses.
2   Permitted without consent
Home businesses; Home occupations
3   Permitted with consent
Bed and breakfast accommodation; Boarding houses; Boat sheds; Building identification signs; Business identification signs; Centre-based child care facilities; Community facilities; Dual occupancies; Dwelling houses; Environmental protection works; Exhibition homes; Group homes; Health consulting rooms; Home-based child care; Home industries; Jetties; Oyster aquaculture; Places of public worship; Pond-based aquaculture; Respite day care centres; Roads; Secondary dwellings; Tank-based aquaculture; Veterinary hospitals; Water recreation structures
4   Prohibited
Any development not specified in item 2 or 3

Newport Residents Association Monthly Meeting: Feb. 18

The next meeting is at 7.00 pm,  on
Tuesday 18th February 2020 ,
Newport Community Centre, The Boulevard, Newport.

Come and discuss matters that affect your Newport

 
Have Your Say on the planning proposal at the corner of Beaconsfield & Queens Pde Newport by clicking here:  DA 2019/1280 60 -62 Beaconsfield Street & 7-13 Queens Parade Newport, New - Demolition works and Construction of a multi unit housing with associated carparking and Landscape works. 
In DA2019/1280 the height exceeds the allowable height of 8.5m as prescribed in the DCP. The proponent has described this increase to 9.6m as minor. There are a number of set-back breaches. There is a major issue with having a vehicle entrance and exit off Beaconsfield Street. Beaconsfield Street is a major traffic thoroughfare to Barrenjoey Road, it is narrow, it has a major school on one side, it is a regular bus route for both City/Manly and school commuters and it has a number of shops near the corner of Kalinya Street. Beaconsfield Street is already a traffic nightmare for Newport residents. 

Have Your Say re the proposed Newport Outdoor Youth Space by clicking here (submissions close on Feb. 16th 2020)
 
Update yourself on Newport matters visit our website: https://newport.org.au/

Mona Vale Road East Upgrade: February 2020 Work Notification

Out of hours work 3 February – 14 February 2020.
Out of hours work will continue along Mona Vale Road over the next two weeks. We will work between 8pm and 5am on the following dates, weather permitting:
  • Tuesday 4, Wednesday 5 and Friday 7 February
  • Tuesday 11, Wednesday 12 and Friday 14 February.
If work is delayed due to wet weather, we will try and work a different night within the same week. We will notify residents living closest to the work if the dates change from the above.

Our work in the main project area between Manor Road and Mona Vale Cemetery will include:
  • rock breaking along the cuttings closest to the road
  • drilling into rock so we can insert steel piles for retaining walls
  • concrete delivery for construction work
  • shifting of barriers to create one lane into Ponderosa Parade from Mona Vale Road
  • road maintenance.
We will use excavators with buckets and hammers, bobcats, piling rigs, cranes, lighting, rollers and light vehicles. A stop/slow arrangement will be in place with traffic controllers and signage directing traffic.
We will also work at the Western Early Works area, between Kimbriki Road and Tumburra Street between 8pm and 5am on the following dates, weather permitting:
  • Tuesday 4 and Wednesday 5 February. 
Work will include machine delivery and line removal and line marking on the corner of Tumburra Street. We will use grinders, water blaster, line marking trucks, lighting and light vehicles.

Enquiries and registering for work updates
Please contact the community team for enquiries, feedback or any concerns you may have about the work.
Call: 1800 413 640 (24 hour number).
For more information: rms.work/mvreast
  • Or visit us out our pop-up information stall at Pittwater Plaza February 13 from 10.30 – 2.00.
To minimise the impact of night work on residents, we do not work for more than two consecutive nights in the same area and will work only 10 days within the same month. If you are eligible for Alternative Accommodation you will be advised within 24 hours of the work. 

If you need help understanding this information, please contact the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 and ask them to call us on 1800 413 640.

Map showing location of out of hours work in Mona Vale East:


Take And Make Boomerang Bag Kits At Newport Red Cross Shop

Kick the plastic habit! Take the materials and instructions to make your own bag thanks to Avalon Boomerang Bags and Newport Red Cross shop - which is stocking these.

Bilpin Bushfire Relief Raffle

We are running this online raffle until the 18th of Feb. all the funds go through the HumaneSociety For Animal-Rescue, but we are personally locating people and organisations in the Bilpin area that are rescuing and rehabilitating wildlife, finding out what resources and help they need and channelling funds to them. Plus, we are gathering names of tradies and suitable volunteers for working bees. 

There are some great prizes, they include one full day of building work (1 builder, 2 tradesman), a fully catered private ferry adventure, a cooking course, Patonga Boathouse Vouchers with ferry tickets and many more..

Click this link to buy tickets.. https://www.rafflelink.com.au/bilpinwildlife

 Billy Bragg

Water For Brewarinna Update

Last Issue Pittwater Online reported on the initiative undertaken by the Aboriginal Support Group - Manly Warringah Pittwater (ASGMWP) members and supporters to send water to Brewarinna as part of this year's Bush to Beach 2020  celebration.

The ASG Committee sent through a message this week to their supporters: 'Thank you, 2500 litres from donations. Don't stop now!'

From Bre Bruce Shillingsworth, said recently:

#YaamaNgunnaBaaka 
Busy couple of days delivering 15L water bottles throughout the Brewarrina Community especially to the Elders and those on dialysis.

Hopefully this will go some way to helping the people before clean drinking water becomes available again. Those of you with water bottles please keep for refills, we don’t want to have plastic waste #SavingOurWater #NoPlasticWaste
Special thanks to
-Neil and the Northern Beaches mob
- and Robert and staff from IGA in Bourke for their support.



On Friday January 24th the ASGMWP sent another $340.00 to Uncle Bruce for water.

If you want to help send water to Brewarinna, donations can be sent to ASGMWP - Commonwealth Bank
BSB: 062 155 Account No: 00906332 - please put your name and 'Bre Water' in the reference.

When The River Runs Dry

Want to host your own screening?
Now you can with Cinema on Demand from Fan-Force.
Click here to host a screening:

Bayview Church Point Residents Association AGM's Are Held In March

Held in March each year: 7.00 p.m. for 7.30
At BYRA: 1842 Pittwater Rd,  Bayview 
We invite all adult residents of Bayview and Church Point to become members of the Residents Association. Membership forms are available on the night of the AGM.

Whether you are a new member or looking to renew your membership with us, you can download the Subscription Form from our website, complete the details and return to us at either bvcpra@gmail.com or the postal address on the form.

Members socialise at the AGM and if significant matters are to be dealt with during the year, further meetings are called. We include Guest Speakers at such meetings and include Question and Answer time. Regular information Updates are emailed and/or posted to members.

Our core ethos/function is to be ever vigilant in preserving the magnificent area in which we are blessed to live, to look after one another without political or religious bias and to generally support good government and their decisions.
Fore more information please visit: https://bcpra.wordpress.com/

DoggieRescue.com

Pets of the Week


Tucker

AGE/SEX: 2 years / M
BREED: Boxer X
Tucker is a bright bouncy happy 2yo Boxer X boy. He is your typical goofy Boxer dog. He would make a great family dog and suit older children and he enjoys sitting on them! He is social with other similar sized playful dogs. He enjoys pats, cuddles, belly rubs. He sits on command. Walkers say "Hesitant to go but easily persuaded with treats. "Lovely boy! Needed lots of treats and praise to walk at first but then relaxed and walked nicely on a loose lead" He has a short coat and weighs 25.8kg. He would suit  family working PT hours with a garden for him to run in. He comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. His adoption cost is $400. 

Casper

Howdy I’m Casper!! I am approximately 3 months old and I came to The Cottage animal hospital with my brother Jekyll and sister Hyde after coming from the local pound. We sadly lost our mummy somewhere along the way. We luckily found our foster mum, Eleven (who is looking for a home too!) She was lovely and raised us as her own.

We are big enough now that we want to move out of home and get our own families too! I have learnt how to play, eat nicely from a bowl and I always use my litter tray. I love my siblings but I will get all the love in the world with my new family, so we don’t mind being separated. But if you want my siblings too, who are we to argue? If you could be my new family purr-lease call.
He comes with desexing, wormed, F3 vaccinated and microchipped. Adoption fee is $220. 

If you are interested in meeting him, call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 and fill in the Cat Adoption Questionnaire  or email cats@DoggieRescue.com

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

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

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

Pittwater International Women’s Day Breakfast Wednesday 4 March 2020 7am At Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club

Bookings are now open for the Pittwater International Women’s Day Breakfast on Wednesday 4th March 2020.  The Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Inc will host this annual breakfast at The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, 16 Mitala St, Newport.  

The guest speaker at the breakfast will be Lucy Brogden AM.  Lucy has a strong commitment to helping others.  Her primary areas of focus are issues facing Women and Girls, and Mental Health and Wellbeing, particularly in the workplace.  She takes an evidenced based approach to problem solving and social investment.  The 2020 Pittwater Woman of the Year will be announced at the breakfast by Rob Stokes, Member for Pittwater. 

Lucy has more than 25 years’ experience commercial experience with companies including, Macquarie Group and Ernst & Young, working in accounting, finance and organisational psychology.   Specifically, Lucy has worked in trusted advisory roles with some of Australia’s leading CEO’s, Managing Partners, Ministers and Chairs. Amongst many other positions Lucy is Chair & Commissioner, National Mental Health Commission.

Lucy was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in the 2019 Australia Day Honours " For significant service to workplace mental health and wellbeing”.  Lucy will speak on her life story.

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches is a member of Zonta International which is a global organisation of executives and professionals working together to advance the status of women worldwide through service and advocacy. Zonta International is affiliated at the United Nations with other major women’s organisations.  

This breakfast marks International Women's Day (8 March). It is a day to acknowledge women's contribution to making Australia, and the world, a better place.  Everyone is invited to celebrate the day. 
The IWD Breakfast will be held at The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club at 7am till 9am on Wednesday 4 March 2020. The cost is $50pp.  

The delightful location looks over the waters of Pittwater and across to Bayview and Scotland Island. The breakfast is always well attended by the local community.  Everyone is invited to attend and men are particularly welcome. Please book early as this events may fill quickly.
Enquiries to pittwateriwdbreakfast@gmail.com or Susie 0413 623 392.  

Proceeds from the breakfast will support service projects of Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Inc assisting local women in need, and Zonta International projects in developing countries. Come by yourself, bring a friend or make up a table of 8 to 10.  We will seat you. Please book by 22 February.
For full booking details please see the flyer for this event.

Please Register Wildlife Road Strikes

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

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

The RMS are using this information to plan mitigation. So please, if you can, add the information in directly.

February 2 - 8, 2020: Issue 436

Front Page Issue 436 

Call For Mona Vale Hospital Site To Be Kept For New Public Facility At Save Mona Vale Hospital Committee AGM

Pictures Dorothy Hawkins - a new film by John Illingsworth  Dorothy Hawkins' family ran a dairy near Winnererremy Bay at Mona Vale from 1936. Mona Street is in the foreground of the painting shown in the film, Bassett Street with the ocean beyond in the far distance. Brock’s Folly (La Corniche) is on the hill to the right of the ocean. Dorothy, still 14, lived in this house and worked in these fields. Her father, Joseph Homer, later purchased all the land seen here bounded by Bassett and Mona Streets, including the buildings on the hill. 98 year old Dorothy’s story as told here is a case study of a young woman living a semi-rural life at Mona Vale prior to WWII through to the late 1960s. 

Ella McFadyen's Love Of Pittwater: A Children's Champion - shorter version for youngsters

Pittwater Regatta 2020 Hosted By RPAYC: Entries Open

MHYC's Anniversary Sydney Harbour Regatta Open For Business by Lisa Ratcliff

Grant A Game-Changer For Surfing Australia’s Female Participation Program: It's A Shore Thing!

Collector's Corner Sydney Bus Museum Volunteers Helps Mona Vale Bus Depot Celebrate 50th Anniversary Of Opening - On Monday January 27th, 2020 the Sydney Bus Museum marked the 50th anniversary of the opening of Mona Vale Bus Depot by operating bus shuttles around Mona Vale and through the depot. The Sydney Bus Museum has an extensive collection of New South Wales Government and Private Bus Services buses, and tells the story of the history of bus transportation, particularly in NSW, through Australia’s largest collection of historic buses and bus memorabilia.

This week was a rare opportunity to see inside a working bus depot, with the community invited to a ride-along through Mona Vale Depot on two historic double-decker buses from the Sydney Bus Museum.Between 10am and 2pm there were tour departures from the City-bound B-Line bus stop at Mona Vale (Pittwater Rd) to Ponderosa Street. The round trip took around 15 minutes. A donation for those taking the bus ride was requested - all put towards the Bushfire Relief Fund.

Profile Kirsten Milenko
Kirsten Milenko is an Australian composer based in Copenhagen, Denmark. Milenko works with vocal, instrumental and electronic media to express music as environmental phenomena. Working intimately with movement, her music embodies a constant synergy between sound and motion to capture perceptions of space. 

In December 2017, her single ‘Ex Aere’ released on Spotify, Bandcamp and iTunes. Samples of her works feature as the Pittwater Online February 2020 Artist of the Month. Her debut album ‘Caeli’ is scheduled for release on February 22nd, 2020 - so there will be more to come.

As a graduate from Barrenjoey High School, and a University of New South Wales and Sydney Conservatorium student, Kirsten has allowed herself to evolve, to let her nature and interests coalesce to produce sounds that allow you to immerse yourself and be lifted. Born in 1993, her current studies at the Royal Danish Academy of Music under Niels Rosing-Schow and Simon Løffler, mean she will graduate from the Master’s programme in 2020. 

This week, and month, and to inspire all students who have just headed back to school, one of our own - who you possibly saw on the beach or the bush tracks this Summer, enjoying being home.

History Ella McFadyen's Love Of Pittwater: An Environment, Wildlife and Children's Champion - Although Ella McFadyen covered a lot of ground, literally and in the physical sense, during her time; travelling throughout rural New South Wales and Queensland, in the Pacific to the Solomons and New Guinea in 1925, to Europe for another 'break', one of the places she visited frequently as a Boomerang Walking Club member, and for respite, was Pittwater.

Ella McFadyen (1887-1976) was a journalist, editor, writer of books for children, poet and amateur photographer with a passion for the environment (and inspiring youngsters to be amongst this through forming the Boomerang Walking Clubs), a deep love for animals, and sharing insights about the natural world with children. She conducted the Children’s Page of the Sydney Mail (as “Cinderella”) until that publication finished in 1938 and also wrote for the Sydney Morning Herald Women’s Thursday section, Australian Town and Country Journal and many other newspapers and magazines.

Her love of the great outdoors and Australia's wildlife, and sharing that with children, features in just about everything she did and wrote, while her passion for photography captured scenes and animals of here we may not recognise in some cases. Ella's words paid numerous tributes to our environment and bore witness to seeing the little things as much as the great landmarks that have not changed much since she first visited. Her responses to her child and young adult readers spoke of the peninsula and shared tidbits of information on everything from the flowers to the Seasons and weather and what can be found where.

Artist of the Month February 2020: Kirsten Milenko - Composer

Website: www.kirstenmilenko.com
Soundcloud:  soundcloud.com/kirstenmilenko
On Facebook: www.facebook.com/kirstenmilenko

Kirsten Milenko is an Australian composer based in Copenhagen, Denmark. From her previous studies, she was awarded the 2015 Ignaz Friedman Memorial Prize from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music where she studied under Liza Lim, Natasha Anderson and Rosalind Page.  Premieres of Kirsten’s work have been given throughout Australia and Europe. Her music has received performances by ensembles and orchestras including: Danish National Vocal Ensemble, Esbjerg Ensemble, Scandinavian Guitar Duo, Ensemblage, E-Mex Ensemble, Judgement of Paris Quartet, Adelaide Wind Orchestra, Sydney Conservatorium of Music Wind Symphony, Modest Orchestra. 

On November 23rd 2019 her Symphony d'aere had its South Australian premiere and was one of the featured works performed by the Adelaide Wind Orchestra as part of their Australian Stories concert at the Concordia College Chapel. Violinist Jacqui Carias joined the AWO as guest performer in Symphony d’aere by Kirsten Milenko. This symphonic soundscape was debuted by the Sydney Conservatorium Wind Symphony in 2017, and is inspired by how the environment has been afflicted by humanity.

Kirsten has performed her own work as a pianist at venues such as: Staatsoper Hamburg - Opera Stabile, Associació Cultural Sa Taronja; and conductor at Verbrugghen Hall and the Royal Danish Academy of Music. 

The potential that music holds to link an audience with both the seen and unseen worlds of human perception has been a fundamental point of focus since I first began composing. To present the unknown in a way that entices both curiosity and gentleness of the human spirit is an integral idea constantly present in my work. 

There is poetry between a musician and their instrument which has led to the creation of an ongoing collection entitled the ‘Artefact Series’ as a means of further exploring this dialogue. A series of etudes, sound and movement often hidden beneath broader structures are uncovered to show unique embodiments. Recently, compositions with light have been added to the series. 

I have long been interested in the architecture that music is capable of being. The interplay of movement and sound, both physical and perceived, in the definition of space is a recurring point of focus. -Kirsten Milenko

In 2019 Kirsten was selected for the Roche Young Commission 2021 by Wolfgang Rihm, Artistic Director of Lucerne Festival. The Roche Young Commissions series was established for the first time in 2013 as a new and unique form of cooperation between Roche, Lucerne Festival, and the Lucerne Festival Academy. Roche Young Commissions gives two young composers under the age of 30 the opportunity to write orchestral works every other year alternating with Roche Commissions.

Environment News Issue 436 Warriewood Wetlands Twilight Walk: Sunday Dec 2nd - World Wetlands Day 2020, Avalon Rock Pool Baby Fish Rescue By Residents, Bangalley Head Landcare Group, Mt Gilead Stage 2 Residential Development EPBC Public Comment Period, Have your say on: Glendell Continued Operations Project (extraction of an additional 140 million tonnes of ROM coal until 2044 at an increased rate of 10 million tonnes per annum) + Modification 4 - VENM/ENM Importation, Increased Trucking And Extension Of Life (importing up to 320,000 tonnes per annum (tpa) of Virgin Excavated Natural Material) + Haerses Road Quarry MOD 3 - Production Increase (Increase extraction rate from 250,000 tpa to 495,000 tpa; increase the amount of clean fill VENM & ENM from 100,000 tpa to 250,000 tpa; and increase truck movements from 56 per day to 180 per day), Post-Bushfire Logging Makes A Bad Situation Even Worse; But The Industry Is Ignoring The Science, Bushfire Inquiry Will Come Too Late If Climate Change Is Removed From Planning Laws, NSW Gas Deal Could Drain Groundwater and Worsen Climate Change, $25 Million Rehabilitation Bond Won’t Protect Queenslanders From Adani’s Damage, ADF Helicopters Fly Corroboree Frog Rescue To Kosciuszko, Bogong Biccies And Water Stations Delivered To Mountain Pygmy-Possums, Saving Our Species January 2020 Newsletter, $5 Million For Bushfire Affected Coastal Waterways, We Have The Vaccine For Climate Disinformation – Let’s Use It, Citizen Scientists Asked To Get Snappy To Monitor Bushfire-Ravaged Environment, Pulling Out Weeds Is The Best Thing You Can Do To Help Nature Recover From The Fires, Save The Northern Beaches From Blasting And Drilling For Gas Event In Manly: Zali Steggal MP & Abigail Boyd MP Speakers, Bushcare In Pittwater, Gardens And Environment Groups and Organisations In Pittwater, Pittwater Reserves, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon February 2020 Forum - Catchment Secrets Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment: Discoveries So Far In The 21st Century, Night time Wildlife Walk, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment: Bushwalks 2020, PNB 1st Meeting For 2020: Habitat Protection

Aquatics World Wetlands Day 2020: A Wetland Walk, A Drilling On Our Coasts Talk, An Art Exhibition, An Upcoming WRL Open Day - How Will You Celebrate And Support Caring For Our Wetlands?Today Sunday February 2nd, 2020 is World Wetlands day - Wetlands and Biodiversity is the theme for 2020

Wetlands are rich with biodiversity and are a habitat for a dense variety of plant and animal species. Latest estimates show a global decline of biodiversity, while wetlands are disappearing three times faster than forests. This year's theme is a unique opportunity to highlight wetland biodiversity, its status, why it matters and promote actions to reverse its loss. 

What can you do this year to support and protect the animals and plants that live in our wetlands? Our coastal wetlands include Pittwater's saltwater marshes, estuary, lagoon and mangroves - and even extends to the creeks, beach reefs and rock pools for some - see the great community spirit at Avalon Beach's Baby Rock pool during the week in this Issue's Aquatics page.

February 2nd each year is World Wetlands Day to raise global awareness about the vital role of wetlands for people and our planet. This day also marks the date of the adoption of the Convention on Wetlands on February 2nd 1971, in the Iranian city of Ramsar on the shores of the Caspian Sea.

Wetlands are vital for humans, for other ecosystems and for our climate, providing essential ecosystem services such as water regulation, including flood control and water purification. Wetland biodiversity matters for our health, our food supply, for tourism and for jobs. Wetlands also absorb carbon dioxide so help slow global heating and reduce pollution, hence have often been referred to as the “Kidneys of the Earth”.

Though they cover only around 6 per cent of the Earth’s land surface, 40 per cent of all plant and animal species live or breed in wetlands.

Inbox News Issue 436 Potential Global Spread Of New Coronavirus: most 'at-risk' countries and cities lists Australia at 10th and Sydney at 12th, Bulletproof Superbugs On A Deadly March Across The Globe, Recreational Fishers Catching More Sharks and Rays, Gut Reaction: How Immunity Ramps Up Against Incoming Threats, Airborne Microbes Link Great Barrier Reef And Australian Continent, Platypus On Brink Of Extinction, Nano-Thin Flexible Touchscreens Could Be Printed Like Newspaper, PET/MRI Identifies Notable Breast Cancer Imaging Biomarkers, Humanity's Footprint Is Squashing World's Wildlife, Solving A Biological Puzzle: How Stress Causes Grey Hair, Large Marine Parks Can Save Sharks From Overfishing Threat

Park Bench Philosopher Air pollution impacts can be heart-stoppingThere is an increased risk of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) even from short-term exposure to low concentrations of fine particulate matter PM2.5, an international study has found, noting an association with gaseous pollutants such as those from coal burning/mining, bushfires and motor vehicles.

The findings have been published this week in the high-impact journal The Lancet Planetary Health.

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update: February 1st, 2020

Click on Logo to access latest PON: 


To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Local NSW RFS Volunteer Members Head South Again

February 1, 2020
Warringah / Pittwater Headquarters Rural Fire Brigade has 8 Members from in Strike Team Leader Vehicle & Headquaters 1, currently deployed to the south of the state and are currently enroute to the ACT and surrounds, while 14 HQ members are manning Headquaters 6, Headquaters Bulk Water, Elvina 7 and Support Vehicle’s are on standby at station for strike team and local response.

This afternoon, an additional 5 members from Warringah HQ have been deployed on Cottage Point 1 and Warringah HQ 6, staging in Canberra over night to work in the southern part of the state over the next 3 days.

Scotland Island Rural Fire Brigade Members are on the way to Cooma as part of another Northern Beaches Strike Team. Fire conditions in the south of the state have deteriorated significantly today with 5 fires in the area now burning at Emergency Warning and another challenging day have 5 RFS volunteers currently deployed in Narooma area for 5 days until Sunday.

On Friday, January 31st, Tumbledown Dick Rural Fire Brigade Members had Tumble1 heading to Goulburn for forward staging for the next couple of days with another Northern Beaches strike team. Tumble 7 remains in Narooma.

Last Thursday (January 23rd) Tumbledown Dick Rural Fire Brigade's Tumble 1 was part of a Northern Beaches Strike team which responded to Moruya south of Bateman’s Bay. The strike team arrived straight into property protection on Yarragee Road and adjoining areas. They worked there through the evening before overnighting in Bateman’s Bay. 

Tumble7 with Northern Beaches crew headed south again on Australia Day (Sunday Jan 26) to Moruya for the next 5 days, Tumble crew on Lovett 7 headed to Exeter on Monday, January 27th while Tumble1 remained at the Tumble RFB station.


Tumble photo - January 26th.

Changed Parking At Church Point From 7am Monday 3rd Feb.

Please be aware of the restrictions to parking that will be coming into effect in the old carpark at Church Point due to the Ausgrid Power Reliability Project. These restrictions will start at 7am on Monday (3rd February).



Please ensure your car is not located in the southern end of the carpark from the Pittwater Rd entry. This applies to both Pittwater Rd. rows and waterfront rows of the car park.

During the initial phase, the entry to the carpark will also be closed. After this initial phase (whilst equipment is being brought into the site's compound), the entrance will be reopened.

SIRA has made a representation to Ausgrid to again reiterate our request that the NBN cable be also pulled through the new conduit at the same time. This would mean that NBN Co. are not required to restrict the carpark for a second occasion later to pull their cable through. Ausgrid have said they will investigate this.

Complete Project Update - HERE

News Notice courtesy the PON (above) and SIRA

Spotted At North Avalon Beach: Save Water Bucket For Sandy Feet

Residents have installed a bucket under the shower stand to encourage others to Save Water this Summer  - good news!:

Fox Baiting Using 1080 Poison In NPWS - GSB Reserves For Six Monthly Period

1 Feb 2020 - 31 July 2020
Please see attached notification of continuous and ongoing fox control using 1080 POISON with ground baits and canid pest ejectors (CPE's) in Sydney Harbour National Park, Garigal National Park, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, and Lane Cove National Park. As part of this program, baiting also occurs on North Head Sanctuary managed by Sydney Harbour Federation Trust and the Australian Institute of Police Management facility at North Head.

Warning signs are displayed at park entrances to notify the public of 1080 baiting.
  • 1080 Poison for fox control is used in these reserves in a continuous and ongoing manner. This means that baits and ejectors (CPE's) remain in the reserves and are checked/replaced every 6 - 8 weeks
  • 1080 use at these locations is in accordance with NSW pesticides legislation, relevant 1080 Pesticide Control Orders and the NPWS Vertebrate Pesticides Standard Operating Procedures
  • A series of public notifications occur on a 6 monthly basis including; alerts on the NPWS website, public notices in local papers, Area pesticide use notification registers and to the NPWS call centre
If you have any further general enquiries about 1080, or for specific program enquiries please contact the local NPWS Area office:

NPWS Sydney North Area (Middle Head) office: 8968 6300
NPWS Sydney North Area (Forestville) office: 9451 3479
NPWS North West Sydney Area (Lane Cove NP) office: 8448 0400
NPWS after-hours Duty officer service: 8579 0537
North Head Sanctuary, Manly (Harbour Trust lands): 8969 2128

Lime Cordiale Hottest 100 Success

Congratulations Lime Cordiale – all 4 eligible songs in this year’s hottest 100! 
  • No: 7 Robbery - Lime Cordiale
  • No 13: Inappropriate Behaviour - Lime Cordiale
  • No 17: I Touch Myself {triple j Like A Version 2019} - Lime Cordiale
  • No 32: Money - Lime Cordiale
Also congrats to Ocean Alley: 2 in Top 100!
  • No 24: Infinity - Ocean Alley
  • No: 54 Stained Glass - Ocean Alley
This week Lime Cordiale released their new single 'Addicted to the Sunshine', which premiered on the triple j Breakfast show. Oli and Louis Leimbach explained that the song's sunny tone hides a little darkness, with a subtext about the growing climate change crisis.

"The lyrics ended up moving into a more critical look at Australia," Oli told hosts Sally Coleman and Erica Mallett. "Everyone's frothing on summer - the beach, summer vibes, summer festivals. But then, there's a part of Australia that doesn't respect or protect the environment."

An accompanying statement expands on the message: "The sun is our creator, it’s our life source and we’re addicted to it but we're letting it destroy us. It’s heating the planet and we’re cooking. This song is about getting up off our towels and changing bad habits. We need to consume less, offset our shi**y actions and respect the sunshine and environment that we love.”

Co-released with the new song is the Addicted to the Sunshine T-shirt 100% of profits will go towards FEAT. initiative Get yours here


FEAT. (Future Energy Artists)is an Australian artist-led renewable energy movement,  a platform that will allow musicians to build and invest in their own solar farms.

'We're uncompromising about the future we need, staunch about the solution, and building a powerful new environmental legacy for the music industry. Join us to make it happen faster.' their website states Visit: https://www.feat.ltd/

Cloud Control, Midnight Oil, Vance Joy, Regurgitator, Big Scary, Peking Duk and Jack River have already signed up.

Lime Cordiale have a gruelling tour schedule coming up.  Next weekend their part of the Party in the Paddock 2020, Feb 6 - Feb 9, at White Hills in Tasmania. On February 18th they will be at an already sold out show at the Fonda Theatre, Los Angeles. They're in NZ for 2 shows in February  on the 22nd and 23rd, then back to the US for an April 11th show in Milwaukee - their second with Tones and I , who are originally from Australia's Mornington Peninsula, and more US dates.

On May 3rd they commence an extensive U.K. and Europe tour, with gigs booked on practically everyday until June 11th, in Barcelona.

Below is their new song - in which you may notice some familiar faces and places. The Credits read: Management: Chugg Music and London Cowboys
Director - Jack Shepherd
Producers - Lena Buchanan & Jack Shepherd
Assistant Directors - Lena Buchanan & Thomas Austin
Cinematographer - Jack Shepherd
1st AC - Thomas Austin 
2nd AC/Sound - Luke Fuller
Production Designer - Lena Buchanan
Editors - Ed de Carvalho, Oli Leimbach & Jack Shepherd
Titles - Lewis Oxenbould 
Colourist - Matt Campbell @ Matua Film 
Starring - Oli & Louis Leimbach, Kath Ebbs, Lambert Majambele, Glenn Jefferies, Hiromi Ozaki, Felix Bornholdt, Dylan Rayner & Thomas Austin, Emily Bester, Micheal Chugg and Andrew Stone. 
Thanks to Lemac Australia, Borough Studios, Prop Co, Terry Hills Community Centre, Sam Williams & Adam Roberts.

Heritage Bus Shelter At Surf Road Has Been Rebuilt

Mona Vale Hospital Kiosk Volunteer Needed + MVHA Stalls 2020

The kiosk is looking for a casual volunteer to help on Saturdays when needed.  No experience is needed and the hours are 9am to 3pm or the shift can be split in half.  Please call Pooja, the manager on 9998 6044, Monday, Wednesday or Fridays.


MVHA Stalls to June 2020
Pittwater Place, Mona Vale. 
Selling knitting, sewing, craft, books and jam. 9am to 3pm.
February 1st, March 7th. April 4th, May 2nd, June 6th

Bunnings, Narrabeen.
Sausage sizzles 8am to 3pm.
February 8th, March 14th, April 11th, May 9th, June 6th.




Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary

ABHS Summer Hours

After another very successful year (our 36th) the Avalon Beach Historical Society has gone into its usual summer recess until March 2020.
That doesn’t mean we’ll be out of range until then.

The Society has its office at 15 Bowling Green Lane and is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Geoff is available most Saturdays from 10am to 1pm and keen to help answer any questions and discuss matters of a historic nature.

The Society conducts 4 meetings each year. Speakers on local historic topics and experiences are the usual drawcards. 

Geoff and John also run some old fashioned ‘slide nights’ in a digital format on the big screen at the Avalon Beach Bowling Club or, as it’s more popularly known, the ‘Bowlo’. They usually feature recent acquisitions by the Society or early ‘forgotten’ photos unearthed from the huge collection as it is progressively digitised.

If you or your family have any photos of early Avalon Beach from any era, the Society would love the opportunity to scan them and add them to the collection. They can then be used for research, exhibition or as an educational tool when Geoff visits the local schools to give one of his many talks.
Even if you now live out of the area you can email Geoff: geoff@abhs.org.au

To see some of the great photos we have in the collection check out our website under Avalon Beach Historical Society or go to abhs.org.au 

Geoff Searl OAM
President
Avalon Beach Historical Society

Mums For Mums 2020

Have you joined our mailing list yet??
Jump over to the website and sign up to receive our newsletter, and don't miss out on any Mums For Mums events in 2020 - creating a supportive space for mums in our local community!

Visit:

Have Your Say On Western Harbour Tunnel And Warringah Freeway Upgrade

January 29, 2020
The Department of Planning, Industry and Environment is calling for community feedback on plans for the construction and operation of the Western Harbour Tunnel and Warringah Freeway Upgrade Project.

The Department’s Executive Director of Infrastructure Assessments, David Gainsford, said community input is a vital part of the assessment process and encouraged everyone to have their say on the proposal, which is on public exhibition now until Thursday, 12 March 2020.

“The proposal includes the Western Harbour Tunnel, which would stretch from the Warringah Freeway at Cammeray, across Sydney Harbour, connecting to the WestConnex interchange at Rozelle.

“The proposal also includes upgrades to the connection point of the tunnels, at the Warringah Freeway,” Mr Gainsford said.

Designs for the project include plans for a 6.5 kilometre, six-lane tunnel as well as nine kilometres of surface road upgrade, four kilometres of which comprises the Warringah Freeway Upgrade.

If approved, the proposal is predicted to create 7500 full time construction jobs.

“Community input is essential to help us make a thorough and rigorous assessment and ensure potential impacts are fully considered,” Mr Gainsford said. Community members are encouraged to attend Transport for NSW information sessions on the proposal during the 6-week exhibition period at the following locations:
  • Thursday 6 February 2020 4pm – 7pm Balmain Town Hall, 370 Darling Street Balmain
  • Saturday 8 February 2020 11am – 2pm Fred Hutley Hall, 200 Miller Street, North Sydney
  • Thursday 13 February 2020 4pm – 7pm Fred Hutley Hall, 200 Miller Street, North Sydney
  • Saturday 15 February 2020 11am – 2pm Norths, 12 Abbott Street, Cammeray
  • Thursday 20 February 2020 4pm – 7pm Norths, 12 Abbott Street, Cammeray
  • Saturday 22 February 2020 11am – 2pm Balmain Town Hall, 370 Darling Street Balmain.
For more information and to have your say visit the Planning Portal.
The exhibition closes on Thursday 12 March 2020.

Nurses Oppose Aged Care Assessment Privatisation

The NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA) has this week condemned plans by the federal government to privatise the current aged care assessment process, arguing it would have widespread implications for the state’s health sector.

The government wants to streamline the current Regional Assessment Service (RAS) and Aged Care Assessment Teams (ACATs), and put the entire assessment process out to tender this year.

Acting NSWNMA General Secretary, Judith Kiejda, said a recent member survey revealed more than 80 per cent of respondents worked with ACAT assessors in their daily roles and a majority believe privatisation would have a negative impact.

“Our members are opposed to the plan and fear handing the assessment process over to private providers would hinder the already under-resourced public service, particularly in rural and regional areas,” Ms Kiejda said.

“There are also fears non-clinical administration staff would replace the highly-skilled nurses who carry out these aged care assessments. Such a move could only lead to poor outcomes for the elderly residents requiring care, not to mention shattering the job security of a qualified, multidisciplinary assessment workforce.

“At a time when the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety has implored urgent interventions to help lift Australia’s aged care sector out of the crisis it is in, privatising this essential service is not the answer.

“It’s abundantly clear that we should be focused on improving the quality of care and safety afforded to all elderly Australians, not buck passing our responsibilities.

“The federal government claims to want person-centred care to be at the core of our aged care sector, yet it’s planning to dilute the impartiality of a vital step in the care journey. It’s ridiculous.

“We don’t deny reforms are necessary to improve the aged care sector, however, there’s no evidence to suggest privatising the aged care assessment process – currently integrated in state and territory public health – would result in better outcomes for the elderly Australians seeking aged care.”

Last week, over 150 NSWNMA delegates voted unanimously in support of three resolutions to oppose the federal government’s ACAT privatisation plan and to campaign against such a move.

Offshore Clean Energy Infrastructure - Proposed Framework: Consultation

Closes 28 Feb 2020
Overview
The Australian Government is developing a regulatory framework to enable the exploration, construction, operation and decommissioning of offshore wind and other clean energy technologies and associated infrastructure in Commonwealth waters (beyond three nautical miles from the coast).

They have developed a discussion paper and process map outlining the proposed regulatory framework. The proposal brings together the Australian Government's experience in regulation of other sectors with best practice for offshore energy regulation overseas.

Please provide your feedback on the proposal by 28 February 2020 to offshorewind@environment.gov.au. Submissions will not be published.

Discussion paper and process map at 


Photo: Burbo Bank Offshore Windfarm, Irish Sea off the Wirral, Image credit- Ian Mantel

Extension To Submissions For EPBC Act Review

January 16, 2020
Statement made by Professor Graeme Samuel AC, independent reviewer of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

The bushfires affecting so many areas of Australia have been devastating for our communities and for our environment.

I would like to extend my condolences to those who have lost loved ones, homes and livelihoods. I acknowledge all those on the front line who are providing emergency response and support, including all the volunteers supporting communities and caring for our injured wildlife.

The attention of so many is rightfully focused on managing the bushfire events and taking the important first steps towards recovery. This includes people and organisations that are keenly interested in the independent review of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (known as the EPBC Act) that I am currently conducting.

Acknowledging that the bushfires are the focus of many of the review’s stakeholders, it is appropriate to extend the timeframe for providing submissions. I am keen for every interested stakeholder to have their say about the EPBC Act and how it operates.

Submissions are now due by close of business Friday 17 April 2020.

I encourage those who are able to provide submissions earlier to do so, including if people want to submit early or focussed views and ideas in advance of a fuller submission at a later time.

To read the discussion paper, find out how to make a submission and to register your interest in the review please visit the review website https://epbcactreview.environment.gov.au/.

Wildlife Care This Summer

Some excellent advice from the veterinary team at NEVS in Terrey Hills: Sydney is facing a catastrophic fire danger ratings, with high temperatures, hot gusty winds, and dry conditions. But what does this mean for our wildlife?

Native wildlife are struggling to cope with bushfires combined with habitat loss. Although our wildlife has evolved with fire, urbanisation has made their habitat so limited they are at great risk. During bushfires wildlife are forced to come to the ground where they get hit by cars and attacked by domestic dogs.

We can help our wildlife by creating refuge areas, that are shady, cool and somewhat wet. You can leave out shallow water dishes, and place a rock in them so smaller animals and birds don’t accidentally drown. Keep your dogs contained indoors and away from smoke for their own benefit as much as for the safety of wildlife. Avoid driving into fire areas unnecessarily where wildlife are likely to be present on the roads trying to escape, and instead await updates from online sources. If you encounter any injured or burnt wildlife, take them immediately to a vet hospital that you can safely access. Do not attempt to handle any bats unless you are vaccinated against Lyssavirus (the rabies vaccine covers this virus). Never chase wild animals in an attempt to capture them as they are prone to capture myopathy brought on by stress which is fatal.

For assistance or advice do not hesitate to phone NEVS on 9452 2933 and Sydney Metropolitan Wildlife Service on 9413 4300.

Mona Vale Road East Upgrade: February 2020 Work Notification

Out of hours work 3 February – 14 February 2020.
Out of hours work will continue along Mona Vale Road over the next two weeks. We will work between 8pm and 5am on the following dates, weather permitting:
  • Tuesday 4, Wednesday 5 and Friday 7 February
  • Tuesday 11, Wednesday 12 and Friday 14 February.
If work is delayed due to wet weather, we will try and work a different night within the same week. We will notify residents living closest to the work if the dates change from the above.

Our work in the main project area between Manor Road and Mona Vale Cemetery will include:
  • rock breaking along the cuttings closest to the road
  • drilling into rock so we can insert steel piles for retaining walls
  • concrete delivery for construction work
  • shifting of barriers to create one lane into Ponderosa Parade from Mona Vale Road
  • road maintenance.
We will use excavators with buckets and hammers, bobcats, piling rigs, cranes, lighting, rollers and light vehicles. A stop/slow arrangement will be in place with traffic controllers and signage directing traffic.
We will also work at the Western Early Works area, between Kimbriki Road and Tumburra Street between 8pm and 5am on the following dates, weather permitting:
  • Tuesday 4 and Wednesday 5 February. 
Work will include machine delivery and line removal and line marking on the corner of Tumburra Street. We will use grinders, water blaster, line marking trucks, lighting and light vehicles.

Enquiries and registering for work updates
Please contact the community team for enquiries, feedback or any concerns you may have about the work.
Call: 1800 413 640 (24 hour number).
For more information: rms.work/mvreast
  • Or visit us out our pop-up information stall at Pittwater Plaza February 13 from 10.30 – 2.00.
To minimise the impact of night work on residents, we do not work for more than two consecutive nights in the same area and will work only 10 days within the same month. If you are eligible for Alternative Accommodation you will be advised within 24 hours of the work. 

If you need help understanding this information, please contact the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 and ask them to call us on 1800 413 640.

Map showing location of out of hours work in Mona Vale East:


RMYC To Host Massive Garage Sale To Support Local RFS Brigades

The Royal Motor Yacht Club Broken Bay at Newport is hosting a Massive Garage Sale on Sunday February 16th, with all proceeds raised going direct to our local NSW RFS stations.

You can get involved by:
1. Donate goods for the day 
2. Volunteer on the day
3. Come along and support the day, purchase goods, watch the entertainment, take part in raffles and enjoy a sausage sizzle and beverage by the bay 
4. Businesses/Individuals can donate for raffles taking place on the day 
CONTACT MAZ - 0414 703 327

Please share their ad and spread the news!

Make this weekend a good opportunity to get together those unwanted but quality saleable items for the MASSIVE GARAGE SALE

**please check for acceptable items**

DROP OFF GOODS FROM THIS WEEKEND DIRECT TO FRONT RECEPTION. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUERIES, PLEASE PHONE MAZ TO CHECK!


Avalon Bowlo Firies Concert Success

The Avalon Bushfire Benefit at Avalon Bowlo last Sunday raised $7,500 for the NSW RFS - Terrey Hills Brigade. A huge thank you to all the musos and helpers on the day; the bucket collectors and raffle ticket sellers, and everyone who attended. 

Musicians: Milton Brown, Steve Haig, Steve Green, Kate Lush, Kate Lush Band, Tommy Grules, Dave Huck Shaw, Nothing-Too Serious, The Red Herrings, 2 Shots Classic Rock Band, CJ Raggatt, Paul Christie, Barry Leef, Justin Duggan, John Stone, Tim Barber, Rick Melick, Rory Gorman, Richard Howard, Madeline Chew Lee, Marilyn Brown.
Community is our future. 

Kirk Wilcox.

'we're jammin' - photo KW


Terrey Hills RFB at last Sunday's even- photo KW

Bilpin Bushfire Relief Raffle

We are running this online raffle until the 18th of Feb. all the funds go through the HumaneSociety For Animal-Rescue, but we are personally locating people and organisations in the Bilpin area that are rescuing and rehabilitating wildlife, finding out what resources and help they need and channelling funds to them. Plus, we are gathering names of tradies and suitable volunteers for working bees. 

There are some great prizes, they include one full day of building work (1 builder, 2 tradesman), a fully catered private ferry adventure, a cooking course, Patonga Boathouse Vouchers with ferry tickets and many more..

Click this link to buy tickets.. https://www.rafflelink.com.au/bilpinwildlife

 Billy Bragg

A Good News Story From Sydney Wildlife Mobile Care Unit

January 30, 2020:
Today Sydney Wildlife captured and treated a rare subspecies of primate - a species known as Homo sapiens extraordinaire. They were then released back to their natural habitat.




Thank you, Tony and Gary, for our beautiful new enclosures inside the van! The Mobile Care Unit is almost ready now (despite already having been in the fire grounds for 3 weeks!).



Tony is part of the management team that runs the wonderful Forest Community Men’s Shed and volunteered his time to build us these amazing cages, using all recycled materials. Gary was helping today with installation. We met Tony at the Lions Club of Frenchs Forest and he has been a treasure.
You guys are indeed extraordinary.
Thank you.



NB: Sydney Wildlife Mobile Care Units' Facebook page can keep you up to date with their work.

Water For Brewarinna Update

Last Issue Pittwater Online reported on the initiative undertaken by the Aboriginal Support Group - Manly Warringah Pittwater (ASGMWP) members and supporters to send water to Brewarinna as part of this year's Bush to Beach 2020  celebration.

The ASG Committee sent through a message this week to their supporters: 'Thank you, 2500 litres from donations. Don't stop now!'

From Bre Bruce Shillingsworth, said last weekend:

#YaamaNgunnaBaaka 
Busy couple of days delivering 15L water bottles throughout the Brewarrina Community especially to the Elders and those on dialysis.

Hopefully this will go some way to helping the people before clean drinking water becomes available again. Those of you with water bottles please keep for refills, we don’t want to have plastic waste #SavingOurWater #NoPlasticWaste
Special thanks to
-Neil and the Northern Beaches mob
- and Robert and staff from IGA in Bourke for their support.



On Friday January 24th the ASGMWP sent another $340.00 to Uncle Bruce for water.

If you want to help send water to Brewarinna, donations can be sent to ASGMWP - Commonwealth Bank
BSB: 062 155 Account No: 00906332 - please put your name and 'Bre Water' in the reference.

Bayview Church Point Residents Association AGM's Are Held In March

Held in March each year: 7.00 p.m. for 7.30
At BYRA: 1842 Pittwater Rd,  Bayview 
We invite all adult residents of Bayview and Church Point to become members of the Residents Association. Membership forms are available on the night of the AGM.

Whether you are a new member or looking to renew your membership with us, you can download the Subscription Form from our website, complete the details and return to us at either bvcpra@gmail.com or the postal address on the form.

Members socialise at the AGM and if significant matters are to be dealt with during the year, further meetings are called. We include Guest Speakers at such meetings and include Question and Answer time. Regular information Updates are emailed and/or posted to members.

Our core ethos/function is to be ever vigilant in preserving the magnificent area in which we are blessed to live, to look after one another without political or religious bias and to generally support good government and their decisions.
Fore more information please visit: https://bcpra.wordpress.com/

DoggieRescue.com

Pets of the Week


Beth

AGE/SEX: 3 years / F
BREED: Lab X Kelpie X Siberian
Beth is a beautiful gentle girl, affectionate with people and walks well on loose lead. She is social with other dogs. She has a short coat and weighs 28.6kg. She is more the size and shape of lab. She came pregnant from the pound and has given birth on 22 January to healthy pups. She comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. Her adoption cost is $450. 

Ariel

Ariel was rescued moments from being PTS at the pound and had an infected eye that could not be saved. He had severe flu, skin issues and dental disease but is now a happy healthy toothless boy feeling much better. Ariel has a dark brown and white coat with a solid 6kg build. A shy guy that does enjoy a brush and pat once he gets his swipes and hisses out of the way. He is over 5 years old, gets on well with other cats and enjoys lounging about.

He comes desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV/FeLV tested and microchipped. He is a healthy FIV positive cat. His adoption fee is $220.

If you are interested in meeting him, call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 and fill in the Cat Adoption Questionnaire  or email cats@DoggieRescue.com

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

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

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

NSW Premier Announces Independent Bushfire Inquiry

January 30, 2020
Premier Gladys Berejiklian has announced an independent expert inquiry into the 2019-20 bushfire season.

The six-month inquiry will review the causes, preparation and response to the 2019-20 bushfires.

The inquiry will be led by Dave Owens, former Deputy Commissioner of NSW Police, and Professor Mary O’Kane AC, Independent Planning Commission Chair and former NSW Chief Scientist and Engineer.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said Professor O’Kane and Mr Owens have an extraordinary breadth and depth of experience into the matters they will be examining.

“NSW is incredibly proud of the efforts of all our emergency services personnel and volunteers throughout this ongoing bushfire season, but the scale of these fires has been unprecedented and we must leave no stone unturned,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“This inquiry will allow NSW to learn from this season and the catastrophic conditions we’ve faced and apply these learnings for the future.”

The inquiry will commence within days and submissions will be accepted from the public. 

A report will be submitted to the Premier at the end of the inquiry.

‘Better Off With You’ Campaign Takes A New Approach To Suicide Prevention On The Northern Beaches

Sydney’s Northern Beaches is one of two Australian communities chosen to appear front and centre of a new suicide prevention campaign pilot delivered by national mental health charity SANE Australia, in partnership with Sydney North Health Network (Northern Sydney PHN). Launched on Wednesday 22 January 2020 for a six-week campaign, Better Off With You features three real stories told by people with experience of suicidal thoughts and attempts.

Jack Heath, SANE Australia CEO, said the new campaign takes an innovative approach to reaching local people who may be contemplating suicide. The campaign has been developed to challenge the common misconception held by people with suicidal thoughts that that their friends and family would be better off without them.

“Feeling like a burden on friends and family is an aspect of suicidal thinking that is rarely discussed but arises far more often than people realise,” Mr Heath said.

“There are more than 500,000 Australians alive today who have attempted suicide at some stage in their lives. Sadly, we know that for many people who attempt or go on to take their own lives, feeling like a burden can be a major contributing factor. When you feel like a burden, it’s easy to lose perspective of the positive things you bring to the lives of those around you.”

“By sharing real stories from people who considered ending their lives because they felt they were a burden, we have the opportunity to reach people feeling the same way today, to let them know that they are not alone, inspire hope and encourage them to seek support.”

The powerful video stories can be viewed on the Better Off With You campaign website, betteroffwithyou.org.au, together with support information and a listing of local services.

The prevention of suicide is an important issue on the Northern Beaches. The Better Off With You campaign contributes to community awareness strategies in the Northern Beaches Suicide Response.

If you or anyone you know needs help, please contact:
1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732
Lifeline on 13 11 14
Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
BeyondBlue on 1300 22 46 36
Headspace on 1800 650 890

Online Mentoring Program Helping Women In Business

January 30, 2020
A free online mentoring program will provide practical resources for women running small businesses, micro-businesses and start-ups.

TAFE NSW will run the $7 million Women in Business program. The program will give participants access to training topics such as creating a business plan, keeping your business cyber-safe and leveraging social media.

The program will connect participants with a range of resources and support services provided by the NSW Government. This includes advice from leading Australian entrepreneurs, events and workshops.

The latest Australian Bureau of Statistics data has revealed more than a third of Australia’s small businesses are headed by women, with 12.1% of the nation’s 5.9 million female employees now their own boss.

Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor said the NSW Government wants to ensure that women-led businesses have the best possible opportunity to succeed.

“The Women in Business program will ensure entrepreneurial women across the state are supported, regardless of where they live,” Mrs Taylor said.

“It also allows businesswomen to select the resources that best suit their needs, at a time that is convenient to them.”

Pittwater International Women’s Day Breakfast Wednesday 4 March 2020 7am At Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club

Bookings are now open for the Pittwater International Women’s Day Breakfast on Wednesday 4th March 2020.  The Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Inc will host this annual breakfast at The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, 16 Mitala St, Newport.  

The guest speaker at the breakfast will be Lucy Brogden AM.  Lucy has a strong commitment to helping others.  Her primary areas of focus are issues facing Women and Girls, and Mental Health and Wellbeing, particularly in the workplace.  She takes an evidenced based approach to problem solving and social investment.  The 2020 Pittwater Woman of the Year will be announced at the breakfast by Rob Stokes, Member for Pittwater. 

Lucy has more than 25 years’ experience commercial experience with companies including, Macquarie Group and Ernst & Young, working in accounting, finance and organisational psychology.   Specifically, Lucy has worked in trusted advisory roles with some of Australia’s leading CEO’s, Managing Partners, Ministers and Chairs. Amongst many other positions Lucy is Chair & Commissioner, National Mental Health Commission.

Lucy was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in the 2019 Australia Day Honours " For significant service to workplace mental health and wellbeing”.  Lucy will speak on her life story.

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches is a member of Zonta International which is a global organisation of executives and professionals working together to advance the status of women worldwide through service and advocacy. Zonta International is affiliated at the United Nations with other major women’s organisations.  

This breakfast marks International Women's Day (8 March). It is a day to acknowledge women's contribution to making Australia, and the world, a better place.  Everyone is invited to celebrate the day. 
The IWD Breakfast will be held at The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club at 7am till 9am on Wednesday 4 March 2020. The cost is $50pp.  

The delightful location looks over the waters of Pittwater and across to Bayview and Scotland Island. The breakfast is always well attended by the local community.  Everyone is invited to attend and men are particularly welcome. Please book early as this events may fill quickly.
Enquiries to pittwateriwdbreakfast@gmail.com or Susie 0413 623 392.  

Proceeds from the breakfast will support service projects of Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Inc assisting local women in need, and Zonta International projects in developing countries. Come by yourself, bring a friend or make up a table of 8 to 10.  We will seat you. Please book by 22 February.
For full booking details please see the flyer for this event.

Spending On Mental Health Services Set To Reach $10 Billion

January 30, 2020
An average of $400 was spent per person on mental health-related services in Australia during 2017-18, according to new figures released today by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.

The report, Mental health services in Australia, shows that almost $10 billion was spent nationally on mental health services in 2017–18 in Australia.

‘Per person expenditure on mental health services increased from $382 to $400 between 2013-14 and 2017-18,’ said AIHW spokesperson Mr. Matthew James.

 ‘Of the $9.9 billion in spending, 60.6% was provided by state and territory governments, 33.9% by the Australian Government, and 5.5% by private health insurance funds. This distribution has remained steady over the past five years.’  

Spending on state and territory specialised mental health services totalled $6.0 billion for 2017–18.

‘The largest proportion of state and territory expenditure was spent on public hospital services for admitted patients ($2.6 billion), this was closely followed by expenditure on community mental health care services totalling $2.3 billion,’ said Mr James said.

Today’s release also provides new data on the use of restrictive practices in mental health facilities, and builds on previous data about the use of seclusion and restraint in mental health facilities.

Restrictive practices include seclusion (where a patient is confined alone in a room from which free exit is prevented) and restraint (where an individual’s freedom of movement is restricted). Restraint can be either physical (for example, hands-on immobilisation techniques performed by health care staff) or mechanical (the use of devices to restrict movement) such as belts or straps).

‘When reporting began in 2009–10, there were about 14 seclusion events recorded for every 1,000 days of patient care. In 2018–19, this is down to about 7 events per 1,000 days of care,’ Mr. James said.

The use of physical restraint nationally has remained relatively stable since reporting began in 2015–16, at about 10 to 11 events per 1,000 days of patient care. The rate of mechanical restraint has also remained stable at 0.6 events per 1,000 days of patient care.

The report will be updated with the latest available data on mental health services throughout 2020, and is available at www.aihw.gov.au/mhsa.

Neighbourhood Safer Places: Pittwater 

Neighbourhood Safer Places are a place of last resort during a bush fire emergency.

They are to be used when all other options in your bush fire survival plan can't be put into action safely.

You should be aware of any Neighbourhood Safer Places in your area, and note them in your bush fire survival plan before a bush fire occurs. You should also know how to get there, as well as alternate routes in case the road is blocked or too dangerous to drive on.

Not all areas will have a Neighbourhood Safer Place. If there is no Neighbourhood Safer Place in your area, you should identify other safer locations you can go to as a last resort. This might include a nearby home which is well prepared, a shopping centre or oval which is well away from the bush.

A Neighbourhood Safer Place is designed as a Place of Last Resort in bush fire emergencies only. Please note that travelling to or sheltering at a Neighbourhood Safer Place does not guarantee your safety.

Remember:
  • Your safest option will always be to leave early.
  • People with special needs, such as the elderly and people with a disability, should always leave before the threat of bush fire.
  • If it is unsafe to leave the area or stay and defend your property, and the path is clear, you should move to your pre-identified Neighbourhood Safer Place, or other safer location, prior to the impact of a bush fire.
  • Be aware that when you are travelling to your Neighbourhood Safer Place there may be heavy smoke and poor visibility.
  • It is important that you are familiar with the area. Gather at the Neighbourhood Safer Place location and remain there until the bush fire threat has passed.
  • The conditions at the Neighbourhood Safer Place may be uncomfortable and you may be affected by heat, smoke and embers.
  • Water, toilets and food may not be available at the Neighbourhood Safer Place and emergency service personnel may not be present.
Neighbourhood Safer Places
  • Lakeside Park Open Space, Lake Park Road, North Narrabeen
  • North Narrabeen Reserve Car Park (Pittwater Rugby Park), Open Space: 1472 Pittwater Road, Warriewood
  • Nelson Heather Centre, Building: 4 Jacksons Road, Warriewood
  • Pittwater Rugby Park, Building:1472 Pittwater Road, Warriewood

  • Apex Park, Open Space: Surfview Road, Mona Vale
  • Northern Beaches Indoor Sports Centre,Building: Namona Street, Mona Vale
  • Mona Vale Golf Club, Building: Golf Avenue, Mona Vale
  • Pittwater RSL, Building: 82 Mona Vale Road, Mona Vale
  • Kitchener Park Sports Centre, Building: 1610 Pittwater Road, Mona Vale
  • Mona Vale Headland Reserve, Open Space: Coronation Street, Mona Vale
  • Mona Vale Memorial Hall, Building:1606 Pittwater Road, Mona Vale
  • Pittwater Place, Building:10 Park Street, Mona Vale
  • Kitchener Park, Open Space:1610 Pittwater Road, Mona Vale
  • Winnererremy Bay Park, Open Space:Mona Street, Mona Vale

  • Bayview Golf Club, Building:1825 Pittwater Road, Bayview
  • Bayview Park, Open Space: Pittwater Road (adjacent to Boat Ramp), Bayview
  • Church Point Reserve (Thomas Stephens Reserve) Carpark, Open Space: McCarrs Creek Road, Church Point

  • Newport Arms Hotel, Building: Kalinya Street, Newport
  • Newport Park, Open Space: Bishop Street, Newport
  • Newport Community Centre, Building:11 - 13 The Boulevarde, Newport
  • Newport Beach Surf Club, Building:394 Barrenjoey Road, Newport
  • Dearin Reserve,  Open Space: Cnr Kalinya Street and Gladstone Street, Newport
  • Newport Beach Reserve, Open Space: Barrenjoey Road, Newport Beach
Beyond the Bends:
  • Dunbar Park Reserve, Open Space: Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon Beach
  • Avalon Beach Reserve, Open Space: Barrenjoey Road, Avalon Beach
  • Whale Beach Surf Club, Building:Surf Road, Whale Beach
  • Lucinda Park, Open Space: Iluka Road, Palm Beach (opposite Nabilla Road)
  • North Palm Beach Surf Lifesaving Club, Building:Governor Phillip Park, off Beach Road, Palm Beach
South and West of Pittwater:
  • Clontarf Reserve, Open Space: Sandy Bay, Clontarf
  • Manly Beach - South Steyne, Open Space: South Steyne, Manly
  • Balgowlah Oval, Open Space Sydney Road, Balgowlah
  • Manly West Park, Open Space: Quirk Road, Manly West
  • Little Manly Beach, Open Space: Stuart Street, Little Manly
  • North Balgowlah Community Centre, Building:Corner of Bardoo Avenue and Wonga Street, North Balgowlah
  • Forestville Memorial Hall, Building:Cnr of Warringah Road and Starkey Street, Forestville
  • Abbot Road Fields, Open Space: Abbot Road, North Curl Curl
  • Brookvale Park, Open Space:Federal Parade, Brookvale
  • Beverley Job Reserve, Open Space: McIntosh Road, Naraweena
  • Patanga Reserve, Open Space: Patanga Road, Frenchs Forest
  • Bambara Reserve (Belrose Oval) & Belrose Community Centre,  Open Space: Forest Way (near Bambara Road), Belrose
  • Lionel Watts Oval, Open Space: Blackbutts Road, Forestville
  • Cromer Park, Open Space:South Creek Road, Cromer
  • St Mathews Farm Reserve, Open Space: Grover Avenue, North Cromer
  • Vic Huxley Oval (Collaroy Plateau Oval), Open Space: Blandford Street, Collaroy Plateau
  • Kurara Reserve, Open Space: Kurara Close, Terrey Hills
  • Woolgoolga Reserve, Open Space: Woolgoolga Street, North Balgowlah
  • The Greenway Reserve, Open Space:The Greenway, Duffys Forest
  • Allambie Heights School - Community Centre, Building:165 Allambie Road, Allambie Heights
  • Belrose Public School, Open Space: Cotentin Road, Belrose
  • Cooleena Reserve, Open Space: 28-30 Cooleena Road, Elanora Heights
  • Frank Beckman Reserve, Open Space:Yulong Avenue, Terrey Hills
  • Killarney Heights Oval, Open Space: Starkey Street and Melwood Avenue, Forestville
  • Millers Reserve, Open Space: Campbell Parade, Manly Vale
  • Passmore Reserve, Open Space: Campbell Parade, Manly Vale
  • Truman Reserve, Open Space: Corner of Macquarie Street and Toronto Avenue, Cromer
  • Terrigal Reserve, Open Space: Terrigal Road, Terry Hills