Community News: June 2025

Week Five May 2025 - Week One June 2025 (May 26 - June 1): Issue 643

Front Page Issue 643

Week Five May 2025 - Week One June 2025 (May 26 - June 1): Issue 643

2025 Environment Art & Design Prize Finalists announced

Pictures A Few Waves for Jack: Little, South + North Av. 

Receivers appointed to Healthscope parent companies: short-term partial rent deferral agreement - EOI received

World Oceans Day 2025 at Bongin Bongin Bay Mona Vale: The Janice Mason Memorial Swim + Family-Friendly Activities - Sunday June 8, from 8am

Aquatics RPAYC's Gwen Slade Regatta 2025 + Upcoming Inaugural Kay Cottee Women's Development Regatta - June 29

Avalon Computer Pals turns 25

Local photographer reveals a new wave perspective on South Curl Curl Rockpool in new exhibition 'Immersed' at Manly Library

Park Bench Philosophers Labor approves Woodside's North West Shelf extension: 'a prelude to approval for Woodside's Browse Project carbon bomb' + Green light for gas: North West Shelf gas plant cleared to run until 2070 + How the North West Shelf expansion risks further damage to Murujuga’s 50,000-year-old rock art

Job Scam Fusion Cell disrupts fake job networks targeting Australians: ScamWatch information on what to look for in Jobs and employment scams

Feedback Invited on Council's Climate Change Policy + Changes to Development Control Plans  (for Manly-Warringah-Pittwater) - closes June 22

Narrabeen's RSL ANZAC Village Renewal Project: Feedback Invited (May to June 2025) - History Insights Sought

Environment Dust storm over Pittwater, Elanora Dragon Rescue, Labor approves Woodside's North West Shelf extension: 'a prelude to approval for Woodside's Browse Project carbon bomb', Green light for gas: North West Shelf gas plant cleared to run until 2070, As record floods raged NSW Government quietly approved fifth coal mine expansion, Minns Government approves sixth coal mine expansion as NSW communities start cleanup after latest climate disaster, Pilliga Update: NSW Labor Backs Santos to drill 850 wells in Forest Of Gomeroi Country; First Nations' land rights extinguished by Court in favour of multinational’s right to mine gas - Unions vow to back fight ‘whatever the cost’, Mid North Coast Floods: “We are in a new climate reality – the Government must act”, Report: Heavy rain in May 2025 New South Wales  floods locally intensified by human-driven climate change, Fifth anniversary of Juukan Gorge disaster, Surfrider: Local June 2025 Events, 'Warringah and Pittwater Garden Heritage' Event, Whale Census Day 2025: June 29, Have your say on council's climate change policy, Council's Draft Land Dealings Policy: Have your Say, Council's Proposed Amendments to Development Control Plans (DCPs) For Low and Mid-Rise Housing: Have Your Say, Weed of the Week: Blue Spur Flower - please get it out of your garden, First Strategy to protect NSW heritage released, Sydney Water sewage licences reviews open for public consultation: Warriewood + Manly, Sydney Water Management Regulation 2025: have your say, WIRES 2025 Grants Applications Now Open, Feedback invited until June 3 on proposed shorter-term WaterNSW prices, First NSW Waste and Circular Infrastructure Plan released, Solar for apartment residents: Funding, Have your say: NSW Sustainable Program - Support to minimise the socio-economic impacts of the Restoring Our Rivers 450 GL target, Yiraaldiya National Park: Have your say - Draft Plan of Management, Conservation of inter-generational assets: Have your say, Batemans Bay Dredging: Have your say, Mine safety cost recovery regulation: have your say, NSW Government’s call to action on illegal tree clearing, First strategy to protect NSW heritage released, Dorrigo Arc Rainforest Centre environmental review available: Have your say, Earth is heading for 2.7°C warming this century. We may avoid the worst climate scenarios – but the outlook is still dire, As Australia’s carbon offset industry grapples with integrity concerns how can companies genuinely tackle climate change?, UNESCO expresses ‘utmost concern’ at the state of the Great Barrier Reef, Antarctica’s sea ice is changing, and so is a vital part of the marine food web that lives within it, Australia’s conservation efforts ignore climate risks – here are 3 fixes, Earth’s seasonal rhythms are changing; putting species and ecosystems at risk, From surprise platypus to wandering cane toads; here’s what we found hiding in NSW estuaries, This rare alpine frog is fighting against a lethal fungus – by breeding faster and faster, Faces you hear? Australia-Indonesia bird flu partnership takes flight on global stage, Dolphin ‘signature whistles’ may transmit more than just identity information, Raining one week, dusty the next – how did a dust storm make it all the way to rainy Sydney?, For many island species the next tropical cyclone may be their last, Anti-environmentalism is on the rise but it’s full of contradictions, ‘1080 pest management’, Volunteers for Barrenjoey Lighthouse Tours needed, Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 Recycling Batteries: at Mona Vale + Avalon Beach, Reporting Dogs Offleash - Dog Attacks to Council, Plastic Bread Ties For Wheelchairs, Stay Safe From Mosquitoes, Mountain Bike Incidents On Public Land, Report fox sightings, Marine wildlife rescue group Central Coast, Watch out - shorebirds about, Possums In Your Roof?: do the right thing, Aviaries + Possum Release Sites Needed, Bushcare in Pittwater: where + when, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment, Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations in Pittwater, Ringtail Posses, Pittwater Reserves: histories + Walks, Birds, + 

Inbox News Protecting workers compensation for future generations, Captain Cook College, Site Group and Blake Wills to pay total penalties of $30.4 million for unconscionable conduct towards students, Corroboree 2000, 25 years on: the march for Indigenous reconciliation has left a complicated legacy, Is it OK to leave device chargers plugged in all the time? An expert explains, What makes somebody a narcissist? Mounting evidence suggests links to insecure attachment styles, Daylight can boost the immune system’s ability to fight infections – new study, From strip searches to sexual harassment, Australian policing has long been plagued by sexism, ‘No pain, no gain’: why some primary students are following intense study routines, Boys are more resilient than girls to school setbacks. Here’s how you can help, Landmark donation powers world-first endometriosis research institute at UNSW, Heart attack or panic attack? Why young men are calling ambulances for unmanaged anxiety, 6 ways live music could help combat the loneliness epidemic, Vale Jack McCoy, Avalon Computer Pals turns 25 - Term 2 2025 classes, New research reveals ageist assumptions that “bleep” off older people, The Avon Lady, Avalon Beach Historical Society June 2025 Meeting, History of Narrabeen: U3A Meeting Speaker Susan Alexander, Letters to home care recipients to prepare for Support at Home, Celebrating 50 Years of Friendly at the Avalon Bulldogs, There’s a new COVID variant driving up infections. A virologist explains what to know about NB.1.8.1, New Australian data shows most of us have PFAS in our blood. How worried should we be?, Can your cat recognise you by scent? New study shows it’s likely, Google is going ‘all in’ on AI. It’s part of a troubling trend in big tech, ‘Not a saint’: Florence Nightingale, heroic founder of modern nursing, is humanised in a new novel,  VW State Classic 2025 - NSW High School State Titles: Results, Empowering voices: youth have their say, Fishing on Commuter Wharf: Church Point, Inaugural NSW School Sport Games, 2025 Environment Art & Design Prize Finalists announced, Opportunities: Surfrider Foundation's local June 2025 Events + Kay Cottee Women's Development Regatta at RPAYC + The 2025 CWAS "David Malin Awards";  Entries open+ More places available in innovative jobs program for women + 2025 Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards entries are now open + Big Brother Movement's Scholarships Now open for All Young Australians + Clash of the Bands at Palmy: Round 1 crews +  Inaugural Murcutt Symposium 2025, 11-13 September 2025, Financial help for young people, School Leavers Support, Word Of The Week: Gravitas, Gen Z stand to be the biggest winners from the new $3 million super tax, X-rays have revealed a mysterious cosmic object never before seen in our galaxy, Friday essay: I’m an Aboriginal farmer. But a romanticised idea of agriculture writes Black people out of the farming story, Oscar Wilde’s The Ballad of Reading Gaol is a work of art activism beloved by Banksy, Sports hernias can cause severe pain in the groin region – and footballers may be at greatest risk, Faces you hear? Dolphin ‘signature whistles’ may transmit more than just identity information, A 1980s cost-of-living crisis gave Australia a thriving arts program – could we do it again?, Friday essay: ‘the Boy-Girl’, a crime journalist and a Black activist – meet the radical ratbags of 19th-century Melbourne

Profile of the Week A Celebration of Jack McCoy

July 31, 1948 - May 26, 2025

Our community is in mourning on hearing of the passing of one of our own and extends love to Jack's wife Kelly, children Cooper and Indiana, and grandchildren Makoha, Kalani, Cloudy, and Isabel.

Jack passed peacefully at home on Monday.

His family stated on Thursday, May 29:

The last couple of days have been a blur however the pain has been eased by the outpouring of tributes and stories being shared. It’s a testament to the amazing life he created and a reminder of how much he touched, moved and inspired so many people from every corner of the world. We thank you all from the bottom of our hearts.

In true Jack McCoy style, we’ll be organising a couple of celebrations in the coming months to allow those from far and wide to join us and pay their respects, beginning with a small paddle out at Scotts Head this Saturday for the local community and friends nearby.

The main ceremony / paddle out will be held at Avalon Beach on July 5th, and then we will return to Hawaii later this year to spread his ashes.

We invite all friends, family, the wider community and beyond to come and respectfully celebrate his amazing life.

Dress: Wear your favourite aloha shirt.

It’s been literally impossible to keep up with the sheer volume of posts and stories that have been shared - if you could please send any special pics and videos you may have to jackmccoyaloha@outlook.com so we can compose something special for the celebrations and our family at this time and forever.

Love, the McCoy ohana

Jack McCoy, who wrapped up two months of touring Blue Horizon for the 20th Anniversary of this award winning film on Saturday May 24th, reminded surf fans that it was he who fed Mark Foo the famous line, 'Eddie Would Go', and closed with a plea to go easy in the lineup, share the waves, and love your brothers and sisters - your brothers and sisters who are everywhere and present in everyone.


    A few weeks ago the news service was fortunate to run a few insights from Beverlie Farrelly on her husband Bernard, known as 'Midget', the first World Surfing Champion.

    Beverlie shared that her first home in Pittwater was when her family lived in Avalon Camping Ground after Wold War Two.  

    This prompted a few inquiries from younger readers and new arrivals to Pittwater who were not be aware that the green area behind Avalon Beach dunes was once a vey popular camping ground from the late 1920's to 1930's on, until Warringah Shire Council closed it in 1953.

    Although the closure in 1953 could be attributed to flooding that occurred in May that year, with two severe rain events within two days washing campers and their possessions along the Careel Creek into Careel Bay - and may wonder about the wisdom of allowing a camping area in what was known to be a flood zone to begin with - during the few decades it existed it provided not only a place to live for those impacted by the 1930's economic depression - when many took to canvas and caves to provide a roof for loved ones, and headed beachwards where they could fish for food - and persisted in post World War Two shortages - it also brought people to our area who stayed and not only went on to build community and serve in its volunteer organisations - such as the surf club - they helped establish the 'there's no them and us, it's just us and us looking after us' mien of the Barrenjoey community that persists today.

    Pittwater Offshore Newsletter:

    June 1 2025


    Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

    To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

    Celebrating 50 Years of Friendly at the Avalon Bulldogs

    Join us as we honour a true club legend – Friendly – and his incredible 50 years of service to the Avalon Bulldogs.

    Let’s come together to celebrate a lifetime of coaching, mentoring, and unwavering dedication that has shaped the heart of our club and community.
    • 📅 Date: Saturday, 21st June 2025
    • 🕖 Time: TBC
    • 📍 Location: Avalon Bulldogs Clubhouse, Hitchcock Park, Avalon
    • 🍴 Food & Drinks: BBQ + bar open, family-friendly
    • 🎤 Speeches, Stories & Surprises – plus a few laughs along the way!
    Whether you’re a past or present player, parent, volunteer, or friend – everyone is welcome. Let’s show our appreciation for Friendly and celebrate this remarkable milestone together.
    One club. One legend. 50 years of loyalty.

    More details to come, but we can’t wait to see you there!


    Fishing on Commuter Wharf: Church Point

    Broken Bay Water Police are asking for public assistance. 
    Police are responding to an increasing number of incidents in relation to youths Fishing against Local Government signage on the Church Point Commuter Wharf. 


    It’s fabulous to see young people out enjoying our waterways but unfortunately we have had issues with youths 
    • - walking over vessels,
    • - obstructing boats coming into the wharf, 
    • - hooks and lines left on vessels and wharfs, 
    • - fish bait and guts left behind.
    Frustrations are escalating with several members of the community accidently breaking / snapping fishing rods trying to get on and off their boats.  

    Over the weekend over 30 youths have been spoken to on the wharf aged between 12 and 14. 

    Police ask that locals respect each other and abide by wharf signage before fishing.

    Sunday May 25 2025

    Renewing the water main in Old Barrenjoey Road: Update

    Construction update – Friday 30 May 2025

    This week we changed our work plan to complete some tasks needed at our Ingleside compound to support the project. We also prepared our compound site near Woolworths for tunnelling and repaired some potholes on Old Barrenjoey Road caused by recent rain.
     
    Next week, we’ll continue our night work to install the new water main along Old Barrenjoey Road, working near Simmonds Lane and progressing towards The Crescent.
     
    We’ll also begin setting up the work zone and traffic changes at the northern end of Old Barrenjoey Road for the upcoming tunnelling work. This work will be done during the day and will start from Thursday 5 June – please see attached a copy of the community notification being distributed today with more information (PDF File below).
     
    Night work (8 pm – 5 am, Monday to Friday mornings):
    • temporarily closing Old Barrenjoey Road during our night work hours – see map below. General traffic will be diverted via local streets. Access to driveways, businesses and parking spaces will be maintained at all times. Our traffic controllers will be on site to assist and to help keep traffic flowing safely.
    • using saw cutters or jackhammers to open the road for our work. Use of the saw cutter and jack hammer will finish by midnight. 
    • digging using an excavator and installing the new water main in sections.
    • temporary rolling storage area consisting of up to eight parking spaces, located out the front of 52 – 54 Old Barrenjoey Road.
    • pouring concrete around a section of the new water main.
    • placing a temporary road plate over a part of the trench to allow the concrete to set. We will remove the plate and cover the area with hot mix as soon as possible.
    • at the end of each night shift, we will temporarily restore Old Barrenjoey Road to allow for continued use during the day. 
    If we finish next week’s planned night work early, we may keep moving further down Old Barrenjoey Road towards The Crescent.
     
    Day work (7 am – 6 pm weekdays, 8 am – 1 pm Saturdays):
    • work zone between Avalon Fire Station and Woolworths
    • one-way traffic (southbound) with traffic diverted through the Woolworths car park (see “Temporary traffic changes – Section 2” map below). 
    • parking restricted along Old Barrenjoey Road between the between the Fire Station and Avalon Parade. Parking will be suspended for the duration of our work in this area.
    • parking inside the car park next to Woolworths will be maintained.
    • we will maintain access to the loading zone outside the Avalon Recreation Centre.
    • these traffic changes will be in place 24/7 for 12 to 16 weeks starting from Thursday 5 June.
    • installing concrete barriers and fencing around our work areas for safety.
    • potholing using a vacuum truck to confirm the location of underground services within our work area.
    There will be some noise from our equipment and machinery as our work progresses along Old Barrenjoey Road. The level of noise you may experience will vary based on how far you live from our work area and what type of property you live in.
     
    We will make every effort minimise noise where possible. We will finish the noisiest work (including saw cutting or jackhammering) by midnight, avoid unnecessary loud noises where possible and turn off vehicles when not in use. 

     

    Contact us 
     
    We are always here to keep you updated and discuss any concerns you may have during the coming months. For more information or to speak to a member of our team, you can:
     
    We are always here to keep you updated and discuss any concerns you may have during the coming months. For more information or to speak to a member of our team, you can: 
    • Visit our project website.
    • Call us on 1800 943 119 or email confluence@sydneywater.com.au. For other Sydney Water repairs or faults, please call 13 20 90 (24 hours). 
    • Speak to us in person at one of our monthly drop-in sessions in Dunbar Park. They are held on the first Wednesday of every month, between 1 pm and 3 pm. Our next one is planned for Wednesday 4 June.
    Sydney Water & Confluence Water project team 

    Vale Jack McCoy

    July 31, 1948 - May 26, 2025

    Our community is in mourning on hearing of the passing of one of our own and extends love to Jack's wife Kelly, children Cooper and Indiana, and grandchildren Makoha, Kalani, Cloudy, and Isabel.

    Jack passed peacefully at home on Monday.

    His family stated on Thursday, May 29:

    The last couple of days have been a blur however the pain has been eased by the outpouring of tributes and stories being shared. It’s a testament to the amazing life he created and a reminder of how much he touched, moved and inspired so many people from every corner of the world. We thank you all from the bottom of our hearts.

    In true Jack McCoy style, we’ll be organising a couple of celebrations in the coming months to allow those from far and wide to join us and pay their respects, beginning with a small paddle out at Scotts Head this Saturday for the local community and friends nearby.

    The main ceremony / paddle out will be held at Avalon Beach on July 5th, and then we will return to Hawaii later this year to spread his ashes.

    We invite all friends, family, the wider community and beyond to come and respectfully celebrate his amazing life.

    Dress: Wear your favourite aloha shirt.

    It’s been literally impossible to keep up with the sheer volume of posts and stories that have been shared - if you could please send any special pics and videos you may have to jackmccoyaloha@outlook.com so we can compose something special for the celebrations and our family at this time and forever.

    Love, the McCoy ohana

    Jack McCoy, who wrapped up two months of touring Blue Horizon for the 20th Anniversary of this award winning film on Saturday May 24th, reminded surf fans that it was he who fed Mark Foo the famous line, 'Eddie Would Go', and closed with a plea to go easy in the lineup, share the waves, and love your brothers and sisters - your brothers and sisters who are everywhere and present in everyone.

    Every time any of us saw him out and about, Jack always had a big smile for you - he was about community, surfing, sharing the stoke - living every moment as best you can, and family.

    More in this week's Profile: A Celebration of Jack McCoy

    Mona Vale Golf Course Has reopened

    This photo might not look like much… But it’s the moment — after 15 long days — the call was made to reopen our course! 

    Golf’s back!!!

    Mona Vale Golf Club, Thursday May 29 2025

    VW State Classic 2025 - NSW High School State Titles: Results

    Surfing NSW is currently running the 2025 Volkswagen State Classic, a historic event combining five NSW State Titles: Juniors, Masters Shortboard, Longboard, SUP and High School, under one banner for the very first time.

    Being held from May 27 to June 1 in Coffs Harbour, the six-day event features more than 700 of the state’s top surfers, aged 10 to 80+, competing across three breaks on the Coffs Coast. This all-ages, inclusive surfing celebration is bringing the community together for a week of competition, connection and experiences that reach far beyond the water.

    The results of the NSW High School State Titles, held Wednesday May 28, are already in and record Narrabeen Sports High School had two teams taking part, both of which won a place in the finals, with their junior team winning first place, while St. Augustine's secured the silver in the Seniors Division - congratulations to all who had a go - and especially to the St Augustine's and  Narrabeen crews who did so well in their heats and across the competition.

    The news service sent through a request for some 'medal pics' late Saturday (May 31) and the great team at Surfing NSW (thanks Zoe!), and your peers, sent back those that run below - we'll run a full 'wrap' next Sunday, including action pics. In the meantime, some results:

    Senior Boys- High School (16 teams overall)

    1. Illawarra Sports High - Ethan Rule  and Taj Air
    2. St Augustine's College Sydney - Aussie Kelaher and Ben Zanatta
    3. St Francis Xavier's College - Jye Kelly and Felix Byrnes
    4. Narrabeen Sports High School - Louie Ewing and Rene Galloway

    Senior Girls- High School

    1. Illawarra Sports High
    2. Cronulla High
    3. Byron Bay High School
    4. McAuley Catholic College

    Junior Boys- High School

    1. Narrabeen Sports High School - Jaggar Phillips and  Eli Clarke
    2. Illawarra Sports High - Cruz Air and Ashton Mekisic
    3. Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School (2)- Jay Whitfield and  Charlie Cairncross
    4. Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School (1) - Hunter Sutcliffe and Marvin Freeman

    Junior Girls- High School

    1. Illawarra Sports High
    2. St Peters Anglican College (1)
    3. St Peters Anglican College (2)
    4. McAuley Catholic College (1)

    Avalon Beach Historical Society June 2025 Meeting

    The next meeting of the Society will be held on TUESDAY 10 JUNE in the usual venue – the ANNEXE in the north-west corner of Dunbar Park and will start at 8pm.

    Unfortunately our planned guest speaker is unable to attend so we have a series of surprises to keep you well and truly entertained and more importantly, historically satisfied.

    Over our many years, and with our esteemed photographic wizard (aka John Stone) we have amassed a great compilation of appropriate film and video historic clips.

    We are going to take you to a folk song concert in St. Michael’s Cave in 1964 and we’ll join A. J. Small in 1932 behind the viewfinder of his movie camera as he films ‘AvaPutt’, his mini-golf course. You’ll also witness his son Geoff, as he sets out the flags to begin patrolling on Avalon Beach after successfully obtaining his Bronze Medallion in the first squad in January 1926.

    In 2015 we shared some of our classic photos from our archives which were transformed into a unique video/film presentation called ‘Creative Features’ as part of the Film Festival of the same name.

    We will also share with you the sad demise of the classic art-deco Beacon Store at Palm Beach when the ‘rights’ to burn it to the ground were ‘sold’ by the Council to Home and Away.

    We couldn’t let you go without the promised last meeting of a local excerpt from ‘Skippy’ and yet another glimpse of the stunning ‘Elephants on Avalon Beach’ by our local resident Jae Morrison.

    A big ‘Thanks’ to the 13 members who supported David Elfick in his quest to get a reasonable outcome for the DA on the site to the north of his mighty ‘Palladium’. He has an update for us in General Business.

    Geoff Searl OAM
    President Avalon Beach Historical Society

    Marine Area Command - NSW Police Force News

    Marine Area Command (MAC) officers from the Sydney and Broken Bay sectors recently completed their Certificate I in Maritime Operations (GPH NC). This qualification prepares these officers to function effectively as integral members of the crew aboard our commercial police vessels.

    These newly certified officers significantly bolster the capabilities of the NSW Police Force, enhancing our ability to combat marine-related crime and execute search and rescue missions with greater efficiency and effectiveness.

    More places available in innovative jobs program for women

    Applications are now open for the 2025 Future Women (FW) Jobs Academy – an innovative pre-employment initiative designed to help women overcome career challenges and connect them with employers.

    The NSW Government invested $5.8 million as part of an election promise to support 1,000 women to be part of FW Jobs Academy.

    The program is already showing results with nearly 75 per cent of the 2024 participants now actively looking for work or applying for further study, and 85 per cent reporting they now feel well-equipped to search for work.

    Flexible, free and online, FW Jobs Academy is a year-long program that equips women with the skills, networks and confidence they need to re-enter the workforce following a career break. The program offers a curated mix of learning, mentoring and community to assist participants navigate evolving job search tools, employer expectations and workplace environments.

    The NSW Government is focused on supporting women who face intersecting barriers to securing employment and career progression through FW Jobs Academy. This includes women from the following communities:

    • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, who are prioritised and accepted on an ‘if not why not’ basis
    • women from culturally diverse backgrounds
    • women living with disability
    • women living in regional, rural or remote areas.

    Jobs Academy is delivered by FW (formerly Future Women), an Australian-based organisation that was founded in NSW. FW’s programs help women succeed in finding work, building their careers and securing their economic futures. Since launching in 2021, the Jobs Academy program has helped thousands of women to return to work and thrive.

    The 2025 program will commence in early August 2025. For more information and to apply, visit the Future Women Jobs Academy web page.

    Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:

    “FW Jobs Academy is solving two challenges simultaneously. Helping NSW women overcome the barriers they face in finding meaningful work and achieving financial security and, at the same time, helping employers access an untapped talent pool.

    “By supporting more New South Wales women to return to work, the Minns Government is not only empowering women to succeed but addressing critical skills gaps in industries that will drive the future prosperity of our state.

    “FW Jobs Academy is helping to unlock the full potential of NSW’s skilled workforce, boosting women’s workforce participation and securing their economic futures.”

    FW Managing Director and co-founder of FW Jobs Academy Helen McCabe said:   

    “Hundreds of thousands of Australian women would like to return to work but can face multiple and intersecting barriers to paid employment.

    “Jobs Academy works because we recognise women as experts in their own lives and, with their input, we’re providing the right balance of education, empowerment and connection to achieve real results.”

    FW Deputy Managing and co-founder of FW Jobs Academy Jamila Rizvi said:  

    “As Australia faces skills shortages in a variety of occupations, FW Jobs Academy offers a practical pathway for women to be part of the solution.

    “Having already supported thousands of women to re-enter the workforce or undertake further study, FW Jobs Academy is boosting workforce participation and productivity, as well as addressing skills shortages and helping families make ends meet.”

    Nominations open for the 2025 Australian Mental Health Prize

    It's been 10 years since the national prize first launched to recognise Australians who have made outstanding contributions to mental health awareness and treatment.

    Despite improvements in mental health, urgent challenges to help those in need still remain. That's the overwhelming sentiment from some of Australia's leading mental health experts.

    This year marks the 10th anniversary of the highly regarded Australian Mental Health Prize. As nominations open for the 2025 prize, leading mental health advocates reflect on a decade of transformation, and the urgent challenges that remain.

    Established by UNSW Sydney, the Prize honours Australians who have made outstanding contributions to mental health across four categories: Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, Lived Experience, Professional, and Community Hero.

    “This milestone year is an opportunity to reflect on how far we’ve come — and where we need to go next,” said University of Sydney Adjunct Professor Sophie Scott, Chair of the Australian Mental Health Prize Advisory Group and award-winning journalist and author.

    “It’s a chance to recognise the individuals and community leaders who are making a real difference, often with little fanfare and limited support.”

    Over the past decade, the Prize has spotlighted leading clinicians, researchers, advocates, peer workers, educators and community leaders. Many have influenced national mental health policy, shaped new models of care, and driven cultural change within their own communities.

    UNSW Scientia Professor Gordon Parker, 2020 recipient and founder of the Black Dog Institute, said Australia must continue to value rigorous research and independent thinking — particularly as new approaches to treatment emerge.

    “There is promising work being done in fields like the gut-brain connection and mood disorders, but we must stay evidence-based and challenge ideas that don’t hold up. We also need to do more to support the next generation of researchers. Without them, innovation stalls.”

    Ellison Professor of Aboriginal Young Peoples’ Social and Emotional Wellbeing at Murdoch University and 2024 winner, Professor Juli Coffin works with Aboriginal young people in regional Western Australia. She said mental and physical health must be treated together — and that relational, culturally grounded care must be properly funded.

    “People are realising that wraparound, community-led models work. The challenge is that they’re often overlooked in favour of programs that continue to deliver little impact. We need to shift how success is measured — and who gets to define it.”

    Professor Kimberlie Dean, forensic psychiatrist at UNSW Sydney and member of the Prize Advisory Group, said the past decade has seen progress in recognising lived experience and community-led innovation, but significant gaps remain.

    ''We’ve seen encouraging growth in the peer workforce and online service delivery. Yet the burden of mental ill-health, especially among young people, continues to rise. The system must evolve to better support what we know works — and do so at scale.''  Professor Dean said

    As part of this milestone year, past winners are also sharing their advice to the next generation of changemakers — from championing lived experience and challenging broken systems, to leading with courage, kindness and conviction.

    “Have the courage to not know and let the people most affected provide the answers you don’t have,” said Dr Louise Byrne, 2024 recipient and Director of Lived Experience Training. “That’s how we build a system that actually works — by listening deeply, challenging old assumptions, and backing real-world knowledge.”

    “Be kind to the marginalised, and lead with love, truth and conviction,” said Megan Krakouer, 2023 recipient and Director of the National Suicide Prevention and Trauma Recovery Project. “Real change starts with honesty, integrity and heart.”

    Professor Attila Brungs, UNSW Vice-Chancellor and President, said the Prize reflects the University’s commitment to fostering long-term, evidence-based impact through trusted partnerships.

    “For a decade, the Australian Mental Health Prize has helped shine a light on those advancing mental health outcomes in communities across Australia,” Prof. Brungs said. “We remain dedicated to critical societal conversations about mental health and driving collective impact in this space.”

    Nominations for the 2025 Australian Mental Health Prize are now open and close on July 23, 2025.  

    Visit Australian Mental Health Prize for more information.

    Cremorne Point Ferry Wharf Closure

    Cremorne Point Ferry Wharf will temporarily close from Monday May 26 as critical repair and maintenance work takes place over the coming months.  
     
    To carry out this work, the wharf will be closed, and ferry services will be unavailable from Monday 26 May to Friday 12 December 2025. 
     
    The wharf is being maintained to ensure it remains safe, reliable, and accessible for all passengers.  
     
    The improvements include: 
    • A new gangway to provide safer, smoother boarding and disembarking for passengers, including those with mobility needs or prams 
    • A new roof on the pontoon, offering better protection from the weather while you wait for your ferry 
    • General structural upgrades to improve the long-term resilience and functionality of the wharf.  
    These works are part of our commitment to keeping NSW’s transport infrastructure in top condition and ensuring that local ferry services continue to meet the needs of the community, both now and into the future. 
     
    Passengers in the area can find alternative transport options at Old Cremorne Wharf or bus route 225 from the Milsons Road Bus stop to Neutral Bay wharf, or they can change to a B-line route from Military Road to get into the city. 

    Alternative transport options
    • Taronga Zoo (F2) commuter services during AM and PM peak periods will be redirected to the Old Cremorne Wharf (900m walk)
    • Bus Route 225 from the Milsons Road Bus stop (Stop ID 209035) to Neutral Bay Wharf to get F5 service into the city
    • Bus route 225 from Milsons Road Bus stop (Stop ID 209035) will take passengers to Military Rd
    • Buses toward the city available at Military Rd at Spencer Rd (Stop ID 209036)
    • Bus route B1 from Military Rd to the CBD.
    Ferry timetables
    We understand this may cause some inconvenience and we truly appreciate your patience while we make these much-needed improvements. 
     
    For more information on the Cremorne Point Wharf upgrade please visit Wharf Maintenance Program | Transport for NSW and for trip planning and other transport options, please visit transportnsw.info. 

    Thanks again for your understanding, and we look forward to providing you with an improved wharf once the work is completed.

    Transport for NSW

    Parliamentary Committee to examine early childhood education and care sector in NSW

    An Upper House committee will conduct an inquiry into the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector in New South Wales.

    Ms Abigail Boyd MLC, Chair of the committee said: 'Over the past year, reports of serious harm to children within ECEC settings have escalated significantly. 

    Following recent media coverage of numerous reports alleging abuse, neglect, short staffing, non-compliance and widespread misconduct within the sector, industry insiders and concerned parents and carers have called for urgent action to bring these stories into the open and address the gaps and failings in our ECEC sector. That is what we intend to do with this inquiry.’

    ‘Early childhood education and care is a critical public service, entrusted with caring for some of the most vulnerable people in our society. This inquiry will enable the committee to scrutinise the current state of the ECEC sector and whether the current regulatory framework, including the NSW ECEC Regulatory
    Authority, is fit for purpose.’

    ‘We will investigate the health, safety and wellbeing of children and the quality of education and care being delivered by providers in over 6,000 ECEC services across NSW, in the context of the sector’s unique composition and existing models of government funding.’

    ‘High-quality and trusted education and care depends on a highly skilled and valued workforce. That’s why this inquiry will examine the safety, pay and conditions of all workers within the sector. It will also consider workers’ access to early childhood qualifications, and the availability and affordability of quality training institutions.’

    Ms Boyd concluded: ‘Families deserve transparency and accountability when it comes to child safety and wellbeing, and that’s what our committee hopes to help deliver through this inquiry.’

    The committee invites interested individuals and organisations to lodge a submission by 15 June 2025.

    The website contains further information about the inquiry, including committee members and terms of reference. 

    Proposed Laneway Closure and sale of land: 20-28 Montauban Avenue, Seaforth

    On Tuesday May 13 2025 the council stated;
    'Notice is hereby given that Council proposes to close the council lane behind 20-28 Montauban Avenue, Seaforth, between Montauban Avenue and Phillip Avenue. 

    The purpose of the proposed road reserve closure is to enable the sale of the subject land to the adjoining owner, to facilitate the redevelopment of the site, with the proceeds of the land sale to be used to fund other public road infrastructure needs in the local community.

    Any person is entitled to make submissions concerning the proposal within 28 days of the date of this public notice. 
    Submissions close 15 June 2025.

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

    Complete the Submission Form below. (HERE)
    In writing: Northern Beaches Council, PO Box 82, Manly NSW, 1655.

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

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


    ______________________________________________________________________________________________________

    The 2025 CWAS "David Malin Awards"

    Entries close July 1 2025. For details on each category visit: https://www.cwas.org.au/astrofest/DMA/

    There is a new International Section open to all astrophotographers - both Australian and overseas residents. 

    The Competition Structure:
    • General Section (Open only to Australian residents):
    • Wide-Field
    • Deep Sky
    • Solar System
    • Theme - "People and Sky"
    • Junior Section (Australian residents aged 18 years or younger):
    • One Open Category (can be of any astronomical subject)
    • International Section (Open to all Australian and overseas resident astrophotographers)
    • Nightscapes
    An additional prize, "The Photo Editor's Choice", will also be awarded. This will be judged by a major news organisation's photo editor or editors. Entry fees are $20 per entry and can be paid by the PayPal, Credit and debit cards.

    Net-Set-Go at Avalon: Peninsula Netball Club 

    For anyone with little ones interested in trying out netball...
    Peninsula Netball Club is offering an exciting 8-week skills program for 6-8 year olds.
    The program will start with basic fundamentals of the game and build to get you competition ready!
    It is designed to be as much about fun as it is about skill. We want to ensure your child walks away with the love of the sport and some new friends from our awesome club!

    When and what time?
    4-5pm Friday 13, 20 and 27 June
    (3-week break during school holidays)
    4-5pm Friday 25 July, 1, 8, 15 and 22 August
    Location: Main hall, Avalon Recreation centre
    Cost: $140 and includes a T-shirt and ball

    (Please complete the form and select their year of birth, 2017, 2018 or 2019)

    Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week

    Pixie 

    12mths Mini Foxy X Chihuahua

    Pixie is a lively super happy and playful pup. She is social with other small dogs however she can be a bit annoying to older quieter dogs. She has loads of energy and sometimes nibbles your fingers out of excitement. She is very affectionate with people and easy to handle. She has a short coat and weighs 4.7kg.

    All our dogs come desexed, fully vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DoggieRescue Vet. Her adoption fee is $700. 

    Stormy 

    2yo Female Mini Lop Rabbit

    This gorgeous girl was handed in to our vets as a stray. She is a sweet affectionate bunny who is easy to handle. She is in good health and is desexed and vaccinated. She has a fluffy coat and weighs 2.6kg. She comes desexed, vaccinated and microchipped. Her adoption fee is $150. 

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

    GrooveAble Disco for Adults + Teens with a Disability

    Only two weeks until our Heroes and Villains Disco for adults with a disability! Tickets available now at https://www.trybooking.com/DBBFG - we can't wait to see everyone there, dressed as their favourite characters!

    The event is on the 13th of June, 6 to 9pm, at the Dee Why PCYC. The $25 ticket includes pizza, drinks and prizes. Please bring your carer if needed - carers have free entry.

    Attention all teenage groovers! GrooveABLE is excited to announce our Northern Beaches "Heroes and Villains" disco for teens with a disability! Come dressed as your favourite character on the 20th of June at the Dee Why PCYC, 6 to 8:30pm, and be ready to groove the night away! 

    Tickets available now at: https://www.trybooking.com/DBBFI, the $25 ticket including pizza, drinks and goodies. Ticket sales close the 13th of June. Can't wait to see everyone there!

    Northern Beaches GrooveAble hosts Disco events on the peninsula for people with a disability, separate quarterly discos for teens (12-17), and adults (18+).


    Bilgola Beach Carpark Accessible parking upgrade: Feedback Invited

    Council have tabled a proposal for more accessible parking spaces in the Bilgola Beach Carpark. 

    ''We have reviewed the carpark, and are proposing to convert 2 angled parking spaces adjacent to the café to 2 accessible parking spaces.'' their webpage for the project states

    ''Our aim is to enhance access and parking opportunities for beachfront visitors with disabilities and/or mobility issues. The change will increase the number of accessible parking spaces at the beach from 3 to 5.

    There is no change to the total number of parking spaces available in the carpark under this proposal.

    Your input is important to us - we invite you to view the concept plan below and have your say on the proposal today.''

    Plan below - consult page here. Feedback closes Sunday July 6, 2025

    Proposed Road Reserve Lease - Wilga Street and Powderworks Road, Elanora Heights

    Council are proposing to grant a road reserve lease for five years to the owners of 233 Powderworks Road, Elanora Heights.

    The purpose of the proposed lease is a private water rising main from 233 Powderworks Road, Elanora Heights, under Powderworks Road and along the northern side of Wilga Street, Elanora Heights to Elanora Country Club.

    Any person is entitled to make submissions to Council with respect to the proposed lease.

    Submissions can be made within 28 days of the date of this public notice by:

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

    This public notice is in accordance with Section 154 of the Roads Act 1993.

    Submissions close Sunday 22 June 2025


    More funding available for war memorials in NSW

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Create NSW Cultural Grants - Now Open

    The Royal Australian Historical Society (RAHS) is pleased to announce that applications for the 2025 Cultural Grants Program are now open. Administered by the RAHS on behalf of Create NSW, the program provides funding of up to $5,000 to support the research and publication of local, community, and regional history projects that deepen our understanding of New South Wales’ diverse past.
     
    A powerful example of the program’s impact is the recently completed publication Jacky Sloan of the Lachlan: Miyagan Bala Yambuwan by the Callara Culture and Heritage Aboriginal Corporation. The book provides a detailed history, genealogy, and heritage of the family of Wiradjuri man Jacky Sloan from the Lachlan River, NSW. It is a significant contribution to Aboriginal family histories, including the remarkable stories of Jacky’s twenty-one descendants who served in World Wars One and Two. The book was launched over the Easter weekend at a Sloan family reunion in Forbes and Eugowra, accompanied by an art exhibition titled Battle Scars by Julie Hutchings. The exhibition explored the impact of war and intergenerational trauma through a Wiradjuri lens.

    The RAHS congratulates the Callara Culture and Heritage Aboriginal Corporation on this important achievement, especially the tireless work of editor Rebecca Shepherd. We also thank the team at Create NSW for their ongoing support of the Cultural Grants Program, which enables communities across NSW to share their histories in meaningful and lasting ways. 

    The 2025 Cultural Grants Program closes on 25 June at midnight.

    To view the guidelines and application form please visit.

    Slow Down: Wildlife Crossing

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


     
    Photo: Phoebe the Swamp Wallaby by Jane Notice

    Speed humps on McCarrs Creek Rd: share Wildlife Data 

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

    This records the GPS position, date, sex, species. Photos can be added as they help in identification. The data is then forwarded to OEH and Transport NSW as it can help establish the best places to place mitigation. There is so much wildlife on the move in our area at present due to various pressures. This database that volunteers maintain needs three pieces of information:
    1. The position via GPS or road and suburb
    2. The date
    3. The animal
    The details can be entered into the database directly by you at:   www.wildlifemapping.org

    Community News + what ran in each Issue

    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

    January 2023  February 2023  March 2023  April 2023  May 2023 June 2023 July 2023  August 2023  September 2023  October 2023 November 2023  December 2023

    January 2024  February 2024  March 2024  April 2024  May 2024  June 2024 July 2024  August 2024  September 2024  October 2024  November 2024  December 2024

    January 2025  February 2025  March 2025  April 2025  May 2025

    Report Hate Crimes

    If you are subjected to hate on social media or online you should keep evidence by taking screen shots of the abuse including usernames, URLs and any other relevant information. You can report the abuse directly to the platform and report in person at any Police Station. If you witness a hate incident or hate crime but are not the victim, you can still make a report to the NSW Police. In an Emergency call Triple Zero (000). If not urgent, you can report online at crimestoppers.com.au or call 1800 333 000 or report in person at any Police Station.  

    Letters to the Editor

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

    ________________________________________________________________________________________________________

     

    Click on logo above to visit their website.

    Pittwater Community Groups: 


    Sports (plus Social Members)

    Gardens and Environment

    Rural Fire Brigades
    Services - Community Organisations

    Arts and Social

    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


    JP Public Register

    You can find a Justice of the Peace (JP) using the online Public Register. You can search by postcode, name of a JP, day of availability, language spoken and JP registration number. The register lists a JP’s location, availability and telephone number. Please note that JPs are volunteers and may not be available at all times. ​Click here to access the JP Public Register.  NB: There are  3 J.P’s working in Pittwater RSL Sub-Branch office, we work every Monday (10:30am to 15:30)except on public holidays:
    1. Terry Jones J.P.
    2. Robert (Bob) Wood J.P.
    3. Deborah Hendy(Carter) J.P