This Issue:
Profile of the Week Australia Day 2023 Honours List The Australia Day 2023 Honours List recognises and celebrates 1,047 recipients, including 736 in the General Division of the Order of Australia and awards for meritorious, distinguished and conspicuous service.
Among these are several residents of our area, including Elvina Bay gentleman Alan Hill, 'For service to conservation and the environment' and Gail Lonnon of Avalon Beach, 'For service to the community of Avalon', an Elanora Heights couple who have done much for many for decades in many volunteer organisations, while Council's Young Citizen of the Year is the wonderful BHS student Noah Smith.
A chat with Gail and Alan and details of others recognitions.
The school held in the old church at Church Point commenced from May 1883 and then transferred to a building at Bayview near where The Quays marina is now - this was called the 'Pittwater Public School'. The Newport public school, first run in a tent, began in April 1888 and Mona Vale began in 1906 in temporary rooms in Park street to begin with, while a new and bigger school was built at Mona Vale at the current school site for the Primary school opened in 1912. .
Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: January 1, 2023
Click on Logo to access the latest PON: 
To contact Roy: editor@scotlandisland.org.au
NSW Crews For Surf Boat Interstate Comp.
Road Works At Bilgola Until Late February
Michael Regan Running For Seat Of Wakehurst
Northern Beaches Mayor has appeared on the roll of registered candidates this week and is standing for the seat of Wakehurst.
The lodgements reads:‘’ The people of Wakehurst deserve a strong independent voice. They deserve a representative who has the interests of their community at heart, I have the experience of working with all parties at every level of Government to deliver the best results.
From traffic congestion and public transport to affordable housing options and protection of our environment, the smart solutions do exist and I want to work with our community to deliver them.’’
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Temporary bus service changes: bus driver shortage
January 29 2023Several bus operators across Greater Sydney have made temporary service adjustments to deal with driver shortages across the industry.A Transport for NSW spokesperson says like other States across Australia, NSW is dealing with an unprecedented bus driver shortage and has introduced adjusted timetables.
“These temporary timetable adjustments in regions 6, 7, and 9, offer reliably predictable route services, rather than cancelling services ad hoc, and give more certainty to commuters when planning their trip as they cater to customer needs based on driver availability,” the spokesperson said.
“We will continue to work with operators and scheduling experts to ensure timetable adjustments are as efficient as possible and are working towards reinstating suspended services as soon as possible.”
Timetable adjustments were introduced for region 6, in the Inner West and Sydney's South, in December 2022, while region 7‘s, in Ryde and surrounds, new timetable was introduced on Friday 27 January 2023. An adjusted timetable for region 9, in the Eastern suburbs, will be introduced from Monday 30 January 2023.
“We will continue to monitor the network and adjust timetables as needed. Commuters across these regions can find the latest timetables on Transportnsw.info and on the planning apps,” the spokesperson said.
“We continue to support operators in the recruitment of drivers and we are currently running bus driver recruitment campaigns across the network.
“We thank the community for working with us during this time and encourage anyone interested in becoming a driver to find out more here”.
Transport for NSW is also working closely with all private bus operators on several strategies to address driver shortages and is closely monitoring their progress.
They include:- - recruiting bus drivers through depot open days, information stalls, providing bonuses and increased marketing and media.
- - redesigning it’s shifts to improve operational efficiency and reduce the number of drivers required.
Buses may still be operating at reduced service levels on any given day due to unplanned driver absences. Please check the Trip Planner before you travel.At: https://transportnsw.info/trip
Northern Beaches Mayor has appeared on the roll of registered candidates this week and is standing for the seat of Wakehurst.
The lodgements reads:
‘’ The people of Wakehurst deserve a strong independent voice. They deserve a representative who has the interests of their community at heart, I have the experience of working with all parties at every level of Government to deliver the best results.
From traffic congestion and public transport to affordable housing options and protection of our environment, the smart solutions do exist and I want to work with our community to deliver them.’’
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Temporary bus service changes: bus driver shortage
January 29 2023
Several bus operators across Greater Sydney have made temporary service adjustments to deal with driver shortages across the industry.
A Transport for NSW spokesperson says like other States across Australia, NSW is dealing with an unprecedented bus driver shortage and has introduced adjusted timetables.
“These temporary timetable adjustments in regions 6, 7, and 9, offer reliably predictable route services, rather than cancelling services ad hoc, and give more certainty to commuters when planning their trip as they cater to customer needs based on driver availability,” the spokesperson said.
“We will continue to work with operators and scheduling experts to ensure timetable adjustments are as efficient as possible and are working towards reinstating suspended services as soon as possible.”
Timetable adjustments were introduced for region 6, in the Inner West and Sydney's South, in December 2022, while region 7‘s, in Ryde and surrounds, new timetable was introduced on Friday 27 January 2023. An adjusted timetable for region 9, in the Eastern suburbs, will be introduced from Monday 30 January 2023.
“We will continue to monitor the network and adjust timetables as needed. Commuters across these regions can find the latest timetables on Transportnsw.info and on the planning apps,” the spokesperson said.
“We continue to support operators in the recruitment of drivers and we are currently running bus driver recruitment campaigns across the network.
“We thank the community for working with us during this time and encourage anyone interested in becoming a driver to find out more here”.
Transport for NSW is also working closely with all private bus operators on several strategies to address driver shortages and is closely monitoring their progress.
They include:
- - recruiting bus drivers through depot open days, information stalls, providing bonuses and increased marketing and media.
- - redesigning it’s shifts to improve operational efficiency and reduce the number of drivers required.
Buses may still be operating at reduced service levels on any given day due to unplanned driver absences. Please check the Trip Planner before you travel.
At: https://transportnsw.info/trip
Manly Warringah Choir Seeking Singers
We are currently recruiting enthusiastic singers (all voices) to join the choir for our 2023 concerts.
We are a non-auditioned community choir, dedicated to the classical choral repertoire. We so appreciate the musical and social experience of being choir members and invite you to join.
Rehearsals commence on Thursday 2nd February, 2023, with concerts planned for May, August and December at St Paul’s Catholic College, Manly.
If you are interested, full details are available at: HERE
More at: http://manlywarringahchoir.org.au/
Manly-Warringah Choir
We are currently recruiting enthusiastic singers (all voices) to join the choir for our 2023 concerts.
We are a non-auditioned community choir, dedicated to the classical choral repertoire. We so appreciate the musical and social experience of being choir members and invite you to join.
Rehearsals commence on Thursday 2nd February, 2023, with concerts planned for May, August and December at St Paul’s Catholic College, Manly.
If you are interested, full details are available at: HERE
More at: http://manlywarringahchoir.org.au/
Manly-Warringah Choir
Rotary Upper Northern Beaches Art Show 2023
24th-26th February
The Rotary Upper Northern Beaches Art Show is fast becoming a popular annual community event. Supported by Northern Beaches Council and other great partners including Johnson Brothers Mitre 10, it is a weekend to remember! It involves a range of stunning works across a wide variety of different price ranges, a Friday-night drinks and auction event, as well as art sales and exhibition all weekend.
Over many years, the club has assisted many local and international charities, strengthening mental wellbeing, health and communities.
The Art Show has become an important event in supporting these goals and this year, will directly support four charities:- Community Pantry Narrabeen - helping those in need for companionship and a good meal
- Gotcha4Life - focused on building stronger mental health across the community
- and, two worthy international causes Build Your Future Today (Cambodia) and Friends Of Soibada (Timor Leste), changing lives of tens of thousands of children, women, and men.
50% of art sale proceeds are donated to these worthy charities and all artists are in the running for a First Prize of $2,000 and Peoples’ Choice Award of $500.
The public has an opportunity to take pleasure in art whilst helping charities do great work!
Art captures what our eyes and heart see in the world and hope to recall – a memory, an impression, or a created image that takes us elsewhere with its symmetry, the design, the materials used, the colours, a feast for the eyes. As well as the pure pleasure of art, studies have shown that engaging with the arts can actually improve stress, memory, and empathy. Visiting a gallery has been found to relieve people of mental exhaustion, the same way the outdoors can.
Rotary Upper Northern Beaches is a dynamic and growing club. Members can be involved in their own personal areas of interest, from volunteering at events (such as this art show), joining a committee to creating great meetings with guest speakers where members enjoy each other’s company.
Event details: 24-26th February 2023. Mona Vale Memorial Hall. 1 Park Street, Mona Vale, 2103.Opening Event and Art Auction: Friday 24th February 2023 from 6pm. Tickets $25. Includes supper, wine, beer and soft drink. Exhibition and Art Sales: Saturday 25th Feb – 9am-4pm & Sunday 26th Feb- 9am-1pm. gold coin entry donation.
More information Website: rotaryuppernorthernbeaches.org.Membership enquiries: contact@rotaryuppernorthernbeaches.orgArt show enquiries: rotaryartshownb@gmail.comOpening night tickets: rotaryuppernorthernbeachesorg.godaddysites.com/book-art-show-tickets
The Rotary Upper Northern Beaches Art Show is fast becoming a popular annual community event. Supported by Northern Beaches Council and other great partners including Johnson Brothers Mitre 10, it is a weekend to remember! It involves a range of stunning works across a wide variety of different price ranges, a Friday-night drinks and auction event, as well as art sales and exhibition all weekend.
Over many years, the club has assisted many local and international charities, strengthening mental wellbeing, health and communities.
The Art Show has become an important event in supporting these goals and this year, will directly support four charities:
- Community Pantry Narrabeen - helping those in need for companionship and a good meal
- Gotcha4Life - focused on building stronger mental health across the community
- and, two worthy international causes Build Your Future Today (Cambodia) and Friends Of Soibada (Timor Leste), changing lives of tens of thousands of children, women, and men.
50% of art sale proceeds are donated to these worthy charities and all artists are in the running for a First Prize of $2,000 and Peoples’ Choice Award of $500.
The public has an opportunity to take pleasure in art whilst helping charities do great work!
Art captures what our eyes and heart see in the world and hope to recall – a memory, an impression, or a created image that takes us elsewhere with its symmetry, the design, the materials used, the colours, a feast for the eyes. As well as the pure pleasure of art, studies have shown that engaging with the arts can actually improve stress, memory, and empathy. Visiting a gallery has been found to relieve people of mental exhaustion, the same way the outdoors can.
Rotary Upper Northern Beaches is a dynamic and growing club. Members can be involved in their own personal areas of interest, from volunteering at events (such as this art show), joining a committee to creating great meetings with guest speakers where members enjoy each other’s company.
Event details:
24-26th February 2023. Mona Vale Memorial Hall. 1 Park Street, Mona Vale, 2103.
Opening Event and Art Auction: Friday 24th February 2023 from 6pm. Tickets $25. Includes supper, wine, beer and soft drink.
Exhibition and Art Sales: Saturday 25th Feb – 9am-4pm & Sunday 26th Feb- 9am-1pm. gold coin entry donation.
More information
Website: rotaryuppernorthernbeaches.org.
Membership enquiries: contact@rotaryuppernorthernbeaches.org
Art show enquiries: rotaryartshownb@gmail.com
Opening night tickets: rotaryuppernorthernbeachesorg.godaddysites.com/book-art-show-tickets
Zonta NB's Pittwater International Women's Day Breakfast 2023 Speaker: Samantha Hollier-James - Tickets Now Available
Wed 1st March 2023, 7:00 am - 9:00 amRoyal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, 16 Mitala St, Newport
Samantha co-founded Tour de Cure in May 2007. Tour de Cure is one of Australia’s most significant cancer research funds behind the Australian Government.
Since 2007 Tour de Cure has raised over $95 Million, which has funded 647 Australian Cancer Research, Support and Prevention Projects resulting in an incredible 96 major cancer breakthroughs. Tour de Cure has also engaged over 175,000 Australian school children with their "Be fit, Be healthy, Be happy" cancer awareness message.
Samantha’s professional work in Media was recognised through winning the B&T Women in Media "People's Choice" Award in 2019. Samantha also works tirelessly to nurture and support young leaders as a volunteer mentor for the past decade. She is passionate about helping people achieve their goals, whatever they may be.
Join us to hear from Samantha and how we should;“never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world, indeed it is the only thing that ever has.” - Margaret Mead
Tickets available now at:
Why Zonta?We believe in making the world a better place by empowering women. We find joy in doing this in a supportive community of like-minded professionals from diverse countries and cultures.
Zonta stands for women’s rights. We advocate for equality, education and an end to child marriage and gender-based violence.
Zonta expands opportunities for women and girls through our international education programs and service projects.
We shall not rest until women’s rights are recognized as human rights.
Wed 1st March 2023, 7:00 am - 9:00 am
Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, 16 Mitala St, Newport
Samantha co-founded Tour de Cure in May 2007. Tour de Cure is one of Australia’s most significant cancer research funds behind the Australian Government.
Since 2007 Tour de Cure has raised over $95 Million, which has funded 647 Australian Cancer Research, Support and Prevention Projects resulting in an incredible 96 major cancer breakthroughs. Tour de Cure has also engaged over 175,000 Australian school children with their "Be fit, Be healthy, Be happy" cancer awareness message.
Samantha’s professional work in Media was recognised through winning the B&T Women in Media "People's Choice" Award in 2019. Samantha also works tirelessly to nurture and support young leaders as a volunteer mentor for the past decade. She is passionate about helping people achieve their goals, whatever they may be.
Join us to hear from Samantha and how we should;
“never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world, indeed it is the only thing that ever has.” - Margaret Mead
Tickets available now at:
Why Zonta?
We believe in making the world a better place by empowering women.
We find joy in doing this in a supportive community of like-minded professionals from diverse countries and cultures.
Zonta stands for women’s rights. We advocate for equality, education and an end to child marriage and gender-based violence.
Zonta expands opportunities for women and girls through our international education programs and service projects.
We shall not rest until women’s rights are recognized as human rights.
Manly CWA Women's Day 2023
Manly Branch of the Country Women’s Association of NSW is proud to be celebrating 100 years of serving the local community. Throughout this year we are celebrating in many ways and are welcoming the community to celebrate and learn with us.
On Saturday 11th March we are having our annual International Women's Day High Tea. We are pleased to have Selena Griffith as our speaker who will focus on #EmbraceEquity. Selena is the CEO of ENACTUS which encourages university students everywhere to use innovation and business skills to ensure that all people thrive in a sustainable world.
At the High Tea delicious home baked goods will be served and there will be a chance for guests to socialise with members of the CWA and students enrolled in ENACTUS.
Tickets are available on humanitix for $70 from:
Manly Branch of the Country Women’s Association of NSW is proud to be celebrating 100 years of serving the local community. Throughout this year we are celebrating in many ways and are welcoming the community to celebrate and learn with us.
On Saturday 11th March we are having our annual International Women's Day High Tea. We are pleased to have Selena Griffith as our speaker who will focus on #EmbraceEquity. Selena is the CEO of ENACTUS which encourages university students everywhere to use innovation and business skills to ensure that all people thrive in a sustainable world.
At the High Tea delicious home baked goods will be served and there will be a chance for guests to socialise with members of the CWA and students enrolled in ENACTUS.
Tickets are available on humanitix for $70 from:
Share Your Views On Threats To Pittwater And Cowan Creek
Council is seeking feedback from the community on issues and threats facing the coastal environment of Pittwater and Cowan Creek.
The feedback will help inform a new coastal management program for the Hawkesbury-Nepean River system that is being jointly developed by Northern Beaches Council with five other councils and the state government.
“We love our local waterways and want to preserve and protect them for future generations,” Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan said.
“Pittwater is part of the broader, beautiful Hawkesbury-Nepean River system that is home to some stunning beaches, and natural rivers and estuaries teeming with aquatic life.
“We want to hear from you, our residents, about the things you see as threats to this precious river system.”
The community can flag locations and issues of concern on an interactive map or share their thoughts through an online survey. The community can flag locations and issues of concern on an interactive map or share their thoughts through an online survey. The survey is being hosted on the Hornsby Shire Council website, one of the project’s six partner councils.
Residents can rank threats and issues that are of most concern to them. These include but are not limited to foreshore erosion and inundation, natural habitat loss, water pollution, climate change impacts such as sea level rise, overcrowding, inadequate waterway access and supporting infrastructure or lack of coordination between government agencies managing the estuary. Details about threats and issues are included in the survey.
Other participating councils include Central Coast Council, Hawkesbury City Council, Hornsby Shire Council, The Hills Shire Council and Ku-ring-gai Council.
The survey runs until late February. For more information or to have your say visit https://yoursay.hornsby.nsw.gov.au/hawkesbury-nepean-CMP
Sun Run 2023: Roads/Buses
Dee Why, Curl Curl, Freshwater, Queenscliff, Manly The Strand, Griffin Road, North Steyne & South Steyne: Sat 4 Feb 2023
The annual Sun Run 7km and 10km fun run events will start from 6:15am from The Strand in Dee Why and finish by 9:30am at South Steyne in Manly. Road closures, parking restrictions and changed traffic conditions will be in effect. All roads will re-open by 11am.
Residents along the course are urged to plan ahead and relocate their vehicles outside the road closure footprint if vehicle access is required on event day. There will be limited vehicle movements permitted while the event is underway.
Road closures:
- Dee Why - 3.30am to 9am: sections of Howard Ave, The Strand and Dee Why Pde. Crossover maintained on Oaks Ave at The Strand eastbound until 5:15am and westbound until 6am.
- Curl Curl to Freshwater - 5:30am to 9am: Griffin Rd, Pitt Rd, Abbott Rd, Carrington Pde and local surrounding roads will be closed. Crossover maintained on Griffin Rd at Pacific Pde in both directions and on Playfair Rd, Ross Rd at Pitt Rd until 6am.
- Queenscliff - 5.30am to 10am: sections of Undercliff Rd, Dalley St, Greycliffe St, Queenscliff Rd, Dowling St, Lumsdaine Dr and surrounding local roads. Crossover maintained westbound (exit only) on Crowd Rd between Dowling St and Cavill St from 5:30am-6:15am and 9am-10am.
- Manly - 3.30am to 9:30am: sections of North Steyne, Raglan St, Collingwood St and other local roads. Managed access for Cameron Ave residents from 5.30am-9am.
- Manly - 3.30am to 11am: sections of South Steyne, Wentworth St, Ashburner St and Victoria Pde.
- Special event clearway parking restrictions will be in effect from 3am until 9am along sections of roads in Dee Why, North Curl Curl, Freshwater, Queenscliff and Manly including sections of Abbott Rd, Howard Ave, The Strand, Evans St, Crown Rd and North Steyne.
Clearways are strict no-parking zones for all vehicle types and apply even for local residents or TfNSW Mobility Scheme Permit holders. Check signs carefully as vehicles left in signposted clearways will be towed and a fee applies. If your vehicle is towed, use the Find My Car website to find its new location, or alternatively call 132 701 to speak to an operator.
Public Transport
Routes 166, 167 and 177 buses will divert or end trips early while roads are closed along the course. Visit transportnsw.info for more info and to plan your trip.
Image: Sun Run 2023 course map
Reported By Transport Management Centre
This Issue:
Profile of the Week Jeremy BlackThe President of the Palm Beach SLSC, Jeremy Black, has family links with Palm Beach going back generations and a strong sense of 'giving back' to community through the same. Once you understand Jeremy’s ancestors have been serving the community in a variety of ways on both the paternal and maternal side, you can well understand his references to the history of Palm Beach SLSC and Palm Beach itself and his commitment to looking after the same.
Palm Beach SLSC is currently celebrating its 101st year and Season. Along with running its annual Brats, Brutes and Bruisers within club carnival, Active volunteer members are looking after residents and thousands of visitors on the beach - as they have been for a long time. Palm Beach SLSC members were behind the movement to rename the Palm Beach Pavilion to honour Lieutenant Colonel Douglas Marks DSO, MC, a WWI Veteran who tragically drowned when he went to the rescue of Johanna Rogers off south Palm Beach on Sunday January 25th, 1920.
The President has a clear message for those who will visit this popular beach during the remainder of the Patrol Season, especially during the upcoming Australia Day public holiday, forecast to be hot and sunny.
The vista of Palm Beach along with our whole peninsula is one JB has treasured since a youngster and which has developed into his capturing through is work as The Drone Guy Aerial Photography - a combination of his passion for technology, making him among the first to use this medium, and photography itself.
JB has also worked as an Executive Producer for several networked radio programs, been a Radio broadcaster and voice over professional, Event coordinator, Fundraising specialist and is known as a great creative problem solver and even a good Musician.
The Summer in Pittwater focus continues with a chat with the President of Palm Beach SLSC.
Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: January 1, 2023
Click on Logo to access the latest PON:
To contact Roy: editor@scotlandisland.org.au
Greens’ Namesake To Stand In Pittwater
The Greens announced on Saturday January 21 they have preselected environmental activist and statistician Hilary Green to stand for the seat of Pittwater at the NSW State Election.
Northern Beaches Greens convenor Evan Turner said Ms Green would live up to her name as their party’s candidate in Pittwater.
“The Greens will be hard to miss with Hilary on the ballot paper,” Mr Turner said.
“Currently our local secretary, she has campaigned for a large variety of causes, including human rights, climate change and the environment more broadly, as well as against the Iraq wars.
“We are proud to have such an outstanding candidate representing us at this critical election for Pittwater, given the large number of issues we’re facing and that our local MP is retiring.”
Ms Green has lived in Mona Vale for 22 years. She was born at Manly and has spent most of her life on the Northern Beaches.
With a PhD in Statistics and several other degrees to her name, she has been an academic lecturing and researching in Statistics for 25 years at Macquarie and also at other Sydney universities.
She applied this expertise in the Voices of Mackellar movement, carrying out their statistical analysis of data collected at “Kitchen Table Conversations”.
"Greens’ policies are comprehensively researched and fully funded, and I want to apply these to the issues we have in Pittwater,” Ms Green said.
“I want to show Pittwater people that the Greens, as a party, are a powerful force for good, and persuade them they are ready to embrace this progressive movement and to vote 1 Green at the state election."
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Local Seniors State They 'Are Invisible'
Older residents tell us they are 'the invisible' people in our local population - Are you a Senior? Do you feel the same? Are there enough multi-generational connection events happening in our area? How can services and connections be improved?
We'd like to hear from - please email us at pittwateronlinenews@bigpond.com
Catherine Park Scotland Island: Draft Landscape Improvements Plan
Council have been working closely with key internal and external stakeholders, and Scotland Island Residents Association (SIRA), to prepare a draft landscape improvements plan that considers all issues and recommendations raised.
The aim is to enhance the park’s function and amenity whilst maintaining the open space landscape character by:
- improving the amenity and management of existing facilities
- improving the arrival experience to Catherine Park
- managing vehicles (buggies) to improve pedestrian access & safety
- managing water craft storage and improving access to water
- improving pedestrian connections to the park and between existing community buildings to provide a more cohesive outdoor community space
- enhancing existing foreshore and open grassed areas to cater for a range of recreational activities and community events
- investigating and implementing appropriate treatments to address drainage issues in the park
View the concept plans HERE
Timeline for works
- Funding is available to undertake the playground renewal in the 2023-24 financial year.
- Potential improvement works will be funded through a budget bid and key aspects of the design will be delivered in stages based community feedback on priority improvements
- Other potential improvement works will be prioritised and delivered based on:
- community feedback
- available funding in future Capital Works Programs
- grant opportunities
- alignment with other related works.
Feedback invited
Your feedback will help Council understand what is important to the park's users. View the draft concept plans below and have your say by:
- completing the comment form here
- emailing council@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au
- writing to council marked ‘Catherine Park, Scotland Island - Draft Landscape Improvements Plan’, Northern Beaches Council, PO Box 82 Manly NSW 1655.
Comments now close January 29 2023
All comments will be treated as public documents and made available on request.
What Is Council Planning For Catherine Park?
Opinion piece
by Jenny Cullen, Steve Crosby, Brad Jones & Lizzie Hazelwood
For those who live nearby, Catherine Park is the landscape of our daily lives. We revel in the beauty which surrounds us. For all of us, it’s the place where the community comes together.
We are locals who love the park, have studied the council’s draft Landscape Improvements Plan in detail and are concerned about its overall impact. The plan contains proposed works which are welcome and needed, such as improvements to drainage, the grassed area, paths, steps and playground. However, there are many other proposals which need careful consideration as to whether we really want them.
Our concerns fall into two groups:
1. Too much stuff: concrete, hard surfaces, extra infrastructure
Wide paths of 2.0m and 2.5m surfaced with crushed gravel and concrete, sandstone block wall on beach, three kayak racks, kayak ramp, extra paving and concrete, exercise equipment, altered playground area.
2. Formalised foreshore access for small vehicles along path and onto beach
Access for any small vehicles (buggies, mobility scooters, motor or quad bikes) leads to a more formal, constructed foreshore with larger concrete landing at wharf junction, 2.5m path and 7.5m turning circle extending over the beach. Pedestrians, playing children and vehicles will all be using the same small prime area.
What makes the park so charming is its stunning location, sandy beaches and informal, tucked away, natural character. Together, these works would significantly change the look and feel of Catherine Park, especially along the foreshore. It would be a more standard suburban park. But unlike other local beaches or paths, small private vehicles would be allowed to drive along part of this recreational and pedestrian space.
We instead suggest that an extended parking area above the phone box in Pitt View St would be a much better option for all of us, including buggy drivers. The foreshore could then be a beautiful and safe place to walk, chat and relax.
Interested? Our views and suggestions are explained more fully in our submission paper, available here.
We encourage you to look at the council's plans and submit your own comments to council (see above for how to do this).
We also welcome you to join us in the park to chat about the plans: we will be there 10 am, Saturday 7 & 21 January.
You are also welcome to email us at jennifercullen57@gmail.com.
Graffiti 'Art' On Pavilion Building At Palm Beach
Opened in January 1937 after the demolition of the growing amount of structures erected in the same vicinity, including the 3rd version of a PBSLSC clubhouse, this iconic instance of still intact Pittwater Art Deco buildings has been targeted by a vandal during the first week of 2023. The top image was taken January 7th 2023, below this taken January 1st 2023, when the 'art' was not present.
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Avalon Bulldogs: Girls Competition
We are super excited to announce we will be having 2 under 14 girls blues tag teams this season! We are very excited to expand into the Girls competition this year!
If you’re turning 12,13,14 this year or your daughter is and you’d like to come join us, get in contact with Jazmin via email registrar@avalonbulldogs.com.au ASAP!
Ride With Aboriginal Peoples: January 26 - Manly To Church Point
A friendly ride to show respect for Aboriginal People
January 26: 7.30 a.m.to 10.30 a.m.
FREE
Do the full 24km or join the ride at Dee Why or Narrabeen and Mona Vale. There will be a support car so we're with you all the way, no one is left behind.
Meet at West Esplanade, Manly (Kay-ye-my), at the monument between Manly wharf and Manly Museum, where Wil-Le-Me-Ring a Garigal Aboriginal man speared Governor Captain Arthur Phillip in 1778.
We will be sent off to the sound of the didgeridoo.
- 7.30am leave Manly – 7km to Dee Why – via Queenscliff, Freshwater, Curl Curl
- 8.15am Join us at the Dee Why Beach at the southern crossing. Crossing Pittwater Road until out of Dee Why.
- 8.30am leave – 7km to Narrabeen – via Pittwater/Sydney Road.
- 9.15am Join us at North Narrabeen Surf Club car park.
- 9.30am leave – 3km to Mona Vale – via Sydney Road.
- 9.40am Join us at Robert Dunn Reserve.
- 9.50am leave – 7km to Church Point Wharf (Garigal) – via Pittwater Road
- 10.30am – be welcomed by friends at Church Point.
While enjoying a well-deserved rest, meet local Aboriginal Garigal man, Neil Evers and Clair Jackson (Ugarapul-Gidabal woman). Hear stories about the Aboriginal people who once lived in the area while the didgeridoo echo across Pittwater, and join in by playing the clap sticks. Listen and learn to dance and sing along to the indigenous language.
Brookvale Structure Plan: Revised Draft On Public Exhibition
Council's vision for Brookvale includes additional dwellings and building height increases in some areas of up to 12 storeys, a new town square of a minimum 5,000 square metres with areas of open space adjacent to the B-line stop, a Pittwater Road Corridor with buildings of between 7-8 storeys with ground-level double-height spaces supporting showrooms, entertainment, night-time economy, and creative maker spaces with residential dwellings above, street upgrades, planting more trees, and introducing cycleways.
A community drop-in session and a business briefing will be held in February 2023 to talk to the project team and hear more about the revised structure plan.
Should the revised draft Brookvale Structure Plan be adopted by Council, the next phases of work to implement the Brookvale Structure Plan will include preparation of a Planning Proposal and supporting technical studies to amend the Local Environmental Plan (LEP), a 7.11 Development Contributions Plan (to levy development for community services and infrastructure), amendments to Council’s Affordable Housing Contributions Scheme, and an area-specific Development Control Plan setting out detailed planning and design guidelines to support the LEP controls. Depending on resourcing, this work could take one to two years to complete.
To read the Revised draft Brookvale Structure Plan visit: yoursay.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/brookvale-structure-plan
Image - The new 'town square' (B-line stop): after
Become A Volunteer Radio Operator: MRNSW
Are you looking for a new challenge? With the busy summer boating season coming up Marine Rescue NSW units up and down the coast want to hear from you! And if you live in Sydney, our State Communications Centre in Belrose is especially keen to hear from you, just drop a line to: base.sydney@marinerescuensw.com.au
Prior radio and boating experience is not required, and as a Radio Operator you'll play a vital role in helping to keep our waterways safer.
If you want to take the plunge and join a dedicated volunteer team helping to save lives on our waterways, then go here for more information:
www.marinerescuensw.com.au/become-a-volunteer/ or contact your local Marine Rescue NSW unit directly.
Mona Vale Residents Association
Mona Vale Residents Association is a community group encouraging involvement on important matters within the Mona Vale area.
Email: mvrasydney@gmail.com
Facebook page: www.facebook.com/monavaleresidents
This Issue:
Profile of the Week Jackson BorgThe Nutri-Grain Ironman/Ironwoman and Summer of Surf series are a celebration of some of Australia's greatest surf lifesaving athletes. These are also placing an up-to-date focus on the role of surf sports in surf lifesaving not seen since the commencement of the movement when thousands used to attend carnivals. Those same carnivals generated funds for the surf clubs hosting them and enabled them to purchase equipment and improve facilities that in turn supported the saving of lives on our beaches. Surf Sports themselves are a means to hone the skills used by those who go the rescue of people in trouble in the surf.
One athlete taking part in both series is Newport SLSC’s Jackson Borg, who states he ‘wasn’t great’ at surf sports when he first commenced racing. His rise in the echelons of these contests he attributes to putting in the hard yards and going the distance, consistently.
However, it’s his passion for the surf lifesaving movement, love of Newport Surf Club and being on the beach that has led to a sustained effort as both an active volunteer Patrol Member at Newport along with his success in the surf sports arenas.
To open our 2023 Profiles you could not get more Summery than a young man who has grown tall and into a great human being through his connection to the movement since five years of age.
Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: January 1, 2023
Click on Logo to access the latest PON:
To contact Roy: editor@scotlandisland.org.au
Bilgola SLSC's Ocean Swim 2023
Photo album available now at: https://photos.app.goo.gl/CQ9YPmksJjBJGFqKA
Report runs Sunday January 22nd, Issue 568
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Sally Campbell Handmade Textiles Pop-Up Shop 2023
At Avalon Rec. Centre: 14-22 January, 10am to 5pm
The wonderful and brilliant Sally Campbell has her annual Summer Pop-up shop in the Avalon recreation Centre at present, pop in and have a look. More at: www.sallycampbell.com.au
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Mona Vale Painting: Is This You?
Dear Pittwater Online News,
Some time last year walking Darley Street where it overlooks Mona Vale Beach I took a picture and finally got around to painting what I saw. I thought it might be fun for you to find the guy and give him the painting which I will donate.
Thank you,
Bill Ditmarsch
If this is you, please email us in the first instance and we'll forward to Bill.
More on his work soon!
Zonta NB's Pittwater International Women's Day Breakfast 2023 Speaker: Samantha Hollier-James - Tickets Now Available
Samantha co-founded Tour de Cure in May 2007. Tour de Cure is one of Australia’s most significant cancer research funds behind the Australian Government.
Since 2007 Tour de Cure has raised over $95 Million, which has funded 647 Australian Cancer Research, Support and Prevention Projects resulting in an incredible 96 major cancer breakthroughs. Tour de Cure has also engaged over 175,000 Australian school children with their "Be fit, Be healthy, Be happy" cancer awareness message.
Samantha’s professional work in Media was recognised through winning the B&T Women in Media "People's Choice" Award in 2019. Samantha also works tirelessly to nurture and support young leaders as a volunteer mentor for the past decade. She is passionate about helping people achieve their goals, whatever they may be.
Join us to hear from Samantha and how we should;
“never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world, indeed it is the only thing that ever has.” - Margaret Mead
Tickets available now at:
Why Zonta?
We believe in making the world a better place by empowering women.
We find joy in doing this in a supportive community of like-minded professionals from diverse countries and cultures.
Zonta stands for women’s rights. We advocate for equality, education and an end to child marriage and gender-based violence.
Zonta expands opportunities for women and girls through our international education programs and service projects.
We shall not rest until women’s rights are recognized as human rights.
Rotary Upper Northern Beaches Art Show 2023
Opening Event and Art Auction: Friday 24th February 2023.
TICKETS $25 AVAILABLE ONLINE NOW AT:
Doors open 6pm, formal proceedings kick off at 6:45pm. Live music, supper, along with wine, beer and soft drink will be served.
Mona Vale Memorial Hall, 1 Park Street, Mona Vale
Photo: Rotary Art Show 2022. Image by Michael Mannington OAM
Removal Of North Narrabeen Return And Earn
Council has been advised that the Return and Earn reverse vending machine has been removed today (January 14th, 2023) at North Narrabeen (end of Namona Street) by Tomra, the State Government’s network operator for its Return and Earn scheme. Council understand that the removal is due to the landowner (Department of Education) needing the space for other purposes.
There is still a Reverse Vending Machine at Pittwater RSL, 82 Mona Vale Road, open until 10pm each day. You can see other nearby locations via this: https://returnandearn.org.au/return-points/
Information courtesy Cr Vincent De Luca OAM, Independent for the Northern Beaches
Erosion At Mackerel Beach
Still not much beach left at Mackerel after 2020 to 2022 storms, sandbags still in place.
Photos: MB resident.
Manly CWA Women's Day 2023
Manly Branch of the Country Women’s Association of NSW is proud to be celebrating 100 years of serving the local community. Throughout this year we are celebrating in many ways and are welcoming the community to celebrate and learn with us.
On Saturday 11th March we are having our annual International Women's Day High Tea. We are pleased to have Selena Griffith as our speaker who will focus on #EmbraceEquity. Selena is the CEO of ENACTUS which encourages university students everywhere to use innovation and business skills to ensure that all people thrive in a sustainable world.
At the High Tea delicious home baked goods will be served and there will be a chance for guests to socialise with members of the CWA and students enrolled in ENACTUS.
Tickets are available on humanitix for $70 from:
Monika's Doggie Rescue: Pets Of The Week
Pete
11yo Maltese X
Pete is a delightful very gentle sweet natured boy. He is social with other dogs and easy to pick up and cuddle. Pete came from the pound with terrible dental disease and dull dirty coat. He has had a bath and clip and had 7 teeth extracted. He will now be able to enjoy his cooked chicken more. He is currently on 2 feeds a day as he is still underweight. Out walking Pete will pull on lead and is reactive past other dogs. He has a non-shedding coat and came from the pound weighing 3.5kg
Autumn
4yo Domestic Medium Haired Cat
Autumn is a tortoise medium coated girl. She was found wandering the streets. Autumn is very gentle and a bit shy. She is looking for a quiet home where she can come further out of her shell. She comes desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIVFeLV tested and microchipped. All our cats come desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV/FeLV tested if over 6 months old and microchipped. Her adoption fee is $220.
To find out more call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email Monika@DoggieRescue.com. RON R251000024
Church Point Ferry Fares 2023
Pensioner and Senior Residents travel for FREE!
Our Fares are set by IPART the Independent Pricings and Review Tribunal of NSW.
They have determined that the prices for 2023 as below;
“Our annual review of the CPI and fuel costs for private ferry fares for 2023 found that:
- The change in the CPI applicable to updating the current maximum fare is 7.0%, based on the quarter-on-quarter change in the CPI as at September 2022. This change was sufficient to have an impact on the maximum fare.
- Diesel prices increased by 44% in the 12 months to September 2022. “
We are keeping the 13 trip tickets heavily discounted – definitely the way to travel.
As a result, our new fare schedule, from 1st January 2023, is as follows:
Adult
Single $11.10
Return $17.00
13 Pass $69.00 $5.31 a trip
Concession/Child
Single
$5.55
Return $11.00
13 Pass $53.00
$4.08 a trip
Child under 5 FREE
Green 13 Pass $70.00
Offset all carbon for 8¢ per trip
PET (Offshore resident only)
FREE
If you are eligible for a pensioner or senior citizens concession card and live on Scotland Island or the Western Foreshores then you are also eligible for an all-day trip ticket for free.
Volunteers Needed: Meals On Wheels
Meals on Wheels have lost a lot of volunteers in the last few months due to COVID regulations etc. so they are desperate for some new people on the roster.
The local service covers all the way from Manly Vale up to Palm Beach, so a run takes around 60-90mins.
You leave from and return to the warehouse in Bassett Street, Mona Vale.
You don’t need to sign on to permanent shifts, even once a month would help them out greatly.
All drivers need an unrestricted license, must be fully vaccinated and will require a volunteer police check.
If you are able to assist please call Milly on 9457 3900 or email
NBeachesVolunteer@kmow.org.au and she can give you more info and send you through training paperwork.
Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Stalls
The Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary members are having a stall at Pittwater Place on the first Saturday of every month from 9am to 3pm selling knitting for babies and children, beanies, bedsocks and scarves for oldies, sewing items, craft and jams, raising funds for the rehabilitation and palliative care units.
Rotary Upper Northern Beaches: Get Involved In Something Positive
At Rotary Upper Northern Beaches, we are always welcoming new members. We find that new members bring new ideas, energy and opportunities. There is something for everyone in Rotary and you can apply your skills for the betterment of our community. This can include anything from cooking a BBQ, to managing a fundraising project, to helping with marketing and social media. You can even get the opportunity to serve on our Board.
We have been quite active in the community over recent and coming weeks, including;
- The Beach To Beach Fun Run (held on 28 August)
- The Bobbo (Bobbin Head Cycle Classic, held last Sunday 18 September)
- Our Annual Charity Golf Day (To be held this Thursday 29 September at Monash Country Club)
- Cooking the BBQ at The Annual Australian Pipe Band Championships next weekend 1 & 2 October at Rat Park).
These are just a few examples of our fund raising and community activities.
If you are looking for a way to give back to the community, while meeting some great people and having some fun with it, please come and check us out. Our next meeting is this Wednesday 28 September at The Sands Hotel Narrabeen (6pm Dinner in the bistro for 7pm Rotary meeting upstairs).
If you would like to know more about Rotary and how you can get involved, please contact us on 02 8005 0711 or email contact@rotaryuppernorthernbeaches.org
Please Slow Down: Wildlife Crossing
Phoebe the Swamp Wallaby weighed less than a kilogram when she was orphaned on the roadside after her mother was hit and killed by a vehicle. Fortunately, Phoebe was uninjured, taken to a local vet and raised and then released by Sydney Wildlife volunteer Jane.
While Phoebe was fortunate, other native birds and animals are not so lucky.
So, if you’re returning home after your summer holiday (or just out and about on Australia Day), please slow down - particularly at dawn and dusk and in areas identified with wildlife crossing signs, for your safety and the welfare of our wildlife.
Please contact Sydney Wildlife Rescue on (02) 9413 4300 for advice if you hit a native animal or come across an injured one while driving. It is helpful if you can provide an accurate location or landmark to assist our rescuers who will pouch check marsupials for joeys, so little lives like Phoebe can be saved.
Photo: Phoebe the Swamp Wallaby by Jane
Notice by Sydney Wildlife Rescue
Community News
Community News Pages list articles that ran each week as well as reports run in other pages: Inbox and Environment News archives etc.
March 2013 April 2013 May 2013 June 2013 July 2013 August 2013 September 2013 October 2013 November 2013 December 2013
January 2014 February 2014 March 2014 April 2014 May 2014 June 2014 July 2014 August 2014 September 2014 October 2014 November 2014 December 2014
January 2015 February 2015 March 2015 April 2015 May 2015 June 2015 July 2015 August 2015 September 2015 October 2015 November 2015 December 2015
January 2016 February 2016 March 2016 April 2016 May 2016 June 2016 July 2016 August 2016 September 2016 October 2016 November 2016 December 2016
January 2017 February 2017 March 2017 April 2017 May 2017 June 2017 July 2017 August 2017 September 2017 October 2017 November 2017 December 2017
January 2018 February 2018 March 2018 April 2018 May 2018 June 2018 July 2018 August 2018 September 2018 October 2018 November 2018 December 2018
January 2019 February 2019 March 2019 April 2019 May 2019 June 2019 July 2019 August 2019 September 2019 October 2019 November 2019 December 2019
January 2020 February 2020 March 2020 April 2020 May 2020 June 2020 July 2020 August 2020 September 2020 October 2020 November 2020 December 2020
January 2021 February 2021 March 2021 April 2021 May 2021 June 2021 July 2021 August 2021 September 2021 October 2021 November 2021 December 2021
January 2022 February 2022 March 2022 April 2022 May 2022 June 2022 July 2022 August 2022 September 2022 October 2022 November 2022 December 2022
Local Seniors State They 'Are Invisible'
Older residents tell us they are 'the invisible' people in our local population - Are you a Senior? Do you feel the same? Are there enough multi-generational connection events happening in our area? How can services and connections be improved?
We'd like to hear from - please email us at pittwateronlinenews@bigpond.com
Catherine Park Scotland Island: Draft Landscape Improvements Plan
Council have been working closely with key internal and external stakeholders, and Scotland Island Residents Association (SIRA), to prepare a draft landscape improvements plan that considers all issues and recommendations raised.
The aim is to enhance the park’s function and amenity whilst maintaining the open space landscape character by:
- improving the amenity and management of existing facilities
- improving the arrival experience to Catherine Park
- managing vehicles (buggies) to improve pedestrian access & safety
- managing water craft storage and improving access to water
- improving pedestrian connections to the park and between existing community buildings to provide a more cohesive outdoor community space
- enhancing existing foreshore and open grassed areas to cater for a range of recreational activities and community events
- investigating and implementing appropriate treatments to address drainage issues in the park
View the concept plans HERE
Timeline for works
- Funding is available to undertake the playground renewal in the 2023-24 financial year.
- Potential improvement works will be funded through a budget bid and key aspects of the design will be delivered in stages based community feedback on priority improvements
- Other potential improvement works will be prioritised and delivered based on:
- community feedback
- available funding in future Capital Works Programs
- grant opportunities
- alignment with other related works.
Feedback invited
Your feedback will help Council understand what is important to the park's users. View the draft concept plans below and have your say by:
- completing the comment form here
- emailing council@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au
- writing to council marked ‘Catherine Park, Scotland Island - Draft Landscape Improvements Plan’, Northern Beaches Council, PO Box 82 Manly NSW 1655.
Comments now close January 29 2023
All comments will be treated as public documents and made available on request.
What Is Council Planning For Catherine Park?
Opinion piece
by Jenny Cullen, Steve Crosby, Brad Jones & Lizzie Hazelwood
For those who live nearby, Catherine Park is the landscape of our daily lives. We revel in the beauty which surrounds us. For all of us, it’s the place where the community comes together.
We are locals who love the park, have studied the council’s draft Landscape Improvements Plan in detail and are concerned about its overall impact. The plan contains proposed works which are welcome and needed, such as improvements to drainage, the grassed area, paths, steps and playground. However, there are many other proposals which need careful consideration as to whether we really want them.
Our concerns fall into two groups:
1. Too much stuff: concrete, hard surfaces, extra infrastructure
Wide paths of 2.0m and 2.5m surfaced with crushed gravel and concrete, sandstone block wall on beach, three kayak racks, kayak ramp, extra paving and concrete, exercise equipment, altered playground area.
2. Formalised foreshore access for small vehicles along path and onto beach
Access for any small vehicles (buggies, mobility scooters, motor or quad bikes) leads to a more formal, constructed foreshore with larger concrete landing at wharf junction, 2.5m path and 7.5m turning circle extending over the beach. Pedestrians, playing children and vehicles will all be using the same small prime area.
What makes the park so charming is its stunning location, sandy beaches and informal, tucked away, natural character. Together, these works would significantly change the look and feel of Catherine Park, especially along the foreshore. It would be a more standard suburban park. But unlike other local beaches or paths, small private vehicles would be allowed to drive along part of this recreational and pedestrian space.
We instead suggest that an extended parking area above the phone box in Pitt View St would be a much better option for all of us, including buggy drivers. The foreshore could then be a beautiful and safe place to walk, chat and relax.
Interested? Our views and suggestions are explained more fully in our submission paper, available here.
We encourage you to look at the council's plans and submit your own comments to council (see above for how to do this).
We also welcome you to join us in the park to chat about the plans: we will be there 10 am, Saturday 7 & 21 January.
You are also welcome to email us at jennifercullen57@gmail.com.
Graffiti 'Art' On Pavilion Building At Palm Beach
Opened in January 1937 after the demolition of the growing amount of structures erected in the same vicinity, including the 3rd version of a PBSLSC clubhouse, this iconic instance of still intact Pittwater Art Deco buildings has been targeted by a vandal during the first week of 2023. The top image was taken January 7th 2023, below this taken January 1st 2023, when the 'art' was not present.
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Avalon Bulldogs: Girls Competition
We are super excited to announce we will be having 2 under 14 girls blues tag teams this season! We are very excited to expand into the Girls competition this year!
If you’re turning 12,13,14 this year or your daughter is and you’d like to come join us, get in contact with Jazmin via email registrar@avalonbulldogs.com.au ASAP!
Ride With Aboriginal Peoples: January 26 - Manly To Church Point
A friendly ride to show respect for Aboriginal People
January 26: 7.30 a.m.to 10.30 a.m.
FREE
Do the full 24km or join the ride at Dee Why or Narrabeen and Mona Vale. There will be a support car so we're with you all the way, no one is left behind.
Meet at West Esplanade, Manly (Kay-ye-my), at the monument between Manly wharf and Manly Museum, where Wil-Le-Me-Ring a Garigal Aboriginal man speared Governor Captain Arthur Phillip in 1778.
We will be sent off to the sound of the didgeridoo.
- 7.30am leave Manly – 7km to Dee Why – via Queenscliff, Freshwater, Curl Curl
- 8.15am Join us at the Dee Why Beach at the southern crossing. Crossing Pittwater Road until out of Dee Why.
- 8.30am leave – 7km to Narrabeen – via Pittwater/Sydney Road.
- 9.15am Join us at North Narrabeen Surf Club car park.
- 9.30am leave – 3km to Mona Vale – via Sydney Road.
- 9.40am Join us at Robert Dunn Reserve.
- 9.50am leave – 7km to Church Point Wharf (Garigal) – via Pittwater Road
- 10.30am – be welcomed by friends at Church Point.
While enjoying a well-deserved rest, meet local Aboriginal Garigal man, Neil Evers and Clair Jackson (Ugarapul-Gidabal woman). Hear stories about the Aboriginal people who once lived in the area while the didgeridoo echo across Pittwater, and join in by playing the clap sticks. Listen and learn to dance and sing along to the indigenous language.
Drainage Upgrade At Garden Street Warriewood
Council contractors are presently upgrading the infrastructure on the eastern side of Garden Street at Mullet Creek due to damage caused to the structure over the years by storms.
The works include:
- renewing the headwall and wingwalls
- upgrading the existing undersized apron and scour protection
- upsizing the existing stormwater pipe connection to the southern wingwall
- installing new pedestrian fence.
These works are essential to renew the collapsed wingwall and prevent further deterioration of the headwall structure. The work will increase the life and integrity of the structure and secure the embankment on the eastern side.
The proposed works will not address flooding issues, however, will significantly improve the structural integrity of the existing outlet.
During the construction activities, care will be taken to ensure there is no adverse impact on water quality and marine habitats/ vegetation. Appropriate sediment and erosion control measures are installed and maintained during the works.
Residents state the flow of water through the creek beyond these has almost ceased as a result. The creek downstream of the culvert under Garden Street is zoned as E2 – Environmental Conservation.
Construction started late in 2022. The work was delayed due to Covid-19 related resourcing and contractor availability.
The estimated construction time for this project is 3-4 months from establishment to handover.
These photos were taken from the swamp side, and this is not accessible to the public because of the construction barricades.
Photos: Joe Mills
Developers The Only Winners From Planning Reforms States LGNSW
December 12, 2022
Property developers have been gifted an early Christmas present after the NSW Government announced it would sideline councils and communities from assessing new major housing developments.
Under the Rezoning Pathways Program, developers can nominate rezoning proposals for more than 1,000 dwellings on sites in metropolitan NSW and at least 300 dwellings in regional NSW. These proposals would bypass councils and instead be assessed by the state’s planning department.
Despite the major implications of the scheme, the NSW Government has failed to detail how local provisions will be considered when these residential developments are assessed and what community consultation, if any, will occur.
LGNSW President Darriea Turley AM said the new program was the latest example of the NSW Government cosying up to property developers at the expense of councils and the communities they represent.
“The changes that are being proposed here would affect every council area in the state. It also brings into question what, if any, consideration will be given to existing local plans and policies when major housing developments are being assessed," Cr Turley said.
“By removing council input and community consultation on these major developments, the government is essentially removing the safeguards that protect communities from inappropriate and ad hoc development.”
Cr Turley questioned whether the NSW Government was being genuine when it badged the new program as a way of unlocking new homes faster.
“This government is quick to blame delays on councils. Yet it is well established that the overwhelming cause of delays stem from infrastructure delivery issues and other hold ups from a multitude of government agencies,” Cr Turley said.
“A few years ago, the NSW Government took development application powers off Sydney councils and introduced mandatory local planning panels. The argument was that councillors should focus on strategic planning rather than on individual development applications.
“Now with this latest announcement, the government is coming after the strategic planning as well.
“Councils are best placed to make planning decisions in the interests of their community. Sidelining our sector from this critical role will only benefit developers and further degrades the community from having any say about what developments occur in their areas.”
Brookvale Structure Plan: Revised Draft On Public Exhibition
Council's vision for Brookvale includes additional dwellings and building height increases in some areas of up to 12 storeys, a new town square of a minimum 5,000 square metres with areas of open space adjacent to the B-line stop, a Pittwater Road Corridor with buildings of between 7-8 storeys with ground-level double-height spaces supporting showrooms, entertainment, night-time economy, and creative maker spaces with residential dwellings above, street upgrades, planting more trees, and introducing cycleways.
A community drop-in session and a business briefing will be held in February 2023 to talk to the project team and hear more about the revised structure plan.
Should the revised draft Brookvale Structure Plan be adopted by Council, the next phases of work to implement the Brookvale Structure Plan will include preparation of a Planning Proposal and supporting technical studies to amend the Local Environmental Plan (LEP), a 7.11 Development Contributions Plan (to levy development for community services and infrastructure), amendments to Council’s Affordable Housing Contributions Scheme, and an area-specific Development Control Plan setting out detailed planning and design guidelines to support the LEP controls. Depending on resourcing, this work could take one to two years to complete.
To read the Revised draft Brookvale Structure Plan visit: yoursay.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/brookvale-structure-plan
Image - The new 'town square' (B-line stop): after
Become A Volunteer Radio Operator: MRNSW
Are you looking for a new challenge? With the busy summer boating season coming up Marine Rescue NSW units up and down the coast want to hear from you! And if you live in Sydney, our State Communications Centre in Belrose is especially keen to hear from you, just drop a line to: base.sydney@marinerescuensw.com.au
Prior radio and boating experience is not required, and as a Radio Operator you'll play a vital role in helping to keep our waterways safer.
If you want to take the plunge and join a dedicated volunteer team helping to save lives on our waterways, then go here for more information:
www.marinerescuensw.com.au/become-a-volunteer/ or contact your local Marine Rescue NSW unit directly.
Mona Vale Residents Association
Mona Vale Residents Association is a community group encouraging involvement on important matters within the Mona Vale area.
Email: mvrasydney@gmail.com
Facebook page: www.facebook.com/monavaleresidents
Fairy Penguins Coming Ashore
The Australian Seabird & Turtle Rescue Central Coast looks after seabirds and turtles that come ashore along our beaches.
Little penguins on the Central Coast, off Barrenjoey and in the Hunter region live and breed on offshore islands.
If one is found along our coastline, the penguin may be suffering from exhaustion, is unwell, injured or is currently moulting. Please report any penguins that are found onshore and please don’t place them back into the ocean.
