Community News: June 2026 - Issue 655

Week One June 2026: Issue 655 (published Sunday May 31)

Front Page Issue 655

Week One June 2026: Issue 655 (published Sunday May 31)

NSW Premier Chris Minns Visits Pittwater: MVR West Update - Local Fire Stations - Sports Club Facilities discussed

Wakehurst Parkway Improvements Project: Start of work – Monday June 1 2026

Local island theatre takes on one of the world’s most ambitious comedies by Roy Baker

Aquatics A Cruel Sea by Gordon Wellings Q.C.B.C.

Have Your Say Day 2026: Next Gen Speaks Up About What's Important to them

Welcome to the Inaugural Lord Howe Ocean Race by Di Pearson

We are buzzing with excitement!: The Rotary E-Club of Greater Sydney has erected five Bee Poles by Judith Charnaud OAM,  President and Environment Director of the Rotary E-Club of Greater Sydney

North Narrabeen SLSC Upgrades Set to Commence First Week of June 2026

Council Passes Motion to Make this Place A Fur Free LGA

State Government's Road Transport Amendment (Non-registrable Motor Vehicles) Bill 2026 Passed: Illegal e-bikes can now be seized-crushed

Park Bench Philosophers One Nation’s banning of the ABC and abuse of journalists is shameful; It’s time other media took a stand

DIY Ideas Dealing With Dampness Inside The Home

Environment We are buzzing with excitement!: The Rotary E-Club of Greater Sydney has erected five Bee Poles, Australia’s old environment laws were a box‑ticking exercise. Sadly, the new ones could be too, Scientists have scrapped the worst‑case climate scenario – because action is making a difference, For 44 years, Australia has subsidised diesel use. Is it time to stop?, Mackellar MP Host Waves Without Waste Expo at Warriewood: June 13, Electricity prices to fall as Liddell power station demolished and clean power takes over, Net Zero Commission says NSW coal expansion inconsistent with law and advice, Rare male red pipefish carrying eggs on its trunk spotted in Sydney, Mosquitoes learn to link the smell of DEET with a blood meal – new study, National Biodiversity Day: Private Landholders deliver conservation win, State-of-the-art agtech bus journeys to Western NSW 2 – 11 June 2026, Winter signals start of Murray Crayfish season on the Murray and Murrumbidgee, Solar for apartment residents: Co-funding, PNHA Activities 2026, World-leading biosecurity research facility given $31 million boost, Dedicated alpine weather page part of latest BOM website improvements, Why are retail power prices finally falling?, What ‘biodegradable’ packaging really means – and 3 key questions to ask about it, Healthy soil can protect land from soaring heat. But our map shows where soil is suffering, Deep‑sea sponges survive in complete darkness in ways we didn’t know before, Many biofuels haven’t panned out. Could algae make the clean diesel and aviation fuel Australia needs?, Rice feeds billions of people – but its role in fueling climate change is growing, Australia needs thousands more kerbside EV chargers. Here’s how to roll them out fast and fairly, 500‑million‑year‑old fossil helps fill a strange gap in our record of life on Earth, California’s salmon fishery is reopening after a population crash led to a 3‑year closure but that doesn’t mean all is well, Heatwaves are destroying the sex lives of bees – new research, Shutting down federal bee labs threatens bees, beekeepers and the US food system, Nature is good for business – and we now have numbers to show it, The network watching the world’s oceans is under pressure – just when it’s needed most, Some technologies use accelerated natural processes to capture carbon – but can they store it durably?, Mona Vale Dunes bushcare group: 2026 Dates, Bangalley Headland WPA Bushcare 2026,  Sydney Wildlife Needs People for the Rescue Line, 2025-26 Seal Reveal underway, 622kg of Rubbish Collected from Local Beaches: Adopt your local beach program, This Tick Season: Freeze it - don't squeeze it, Protect wildlife: dispose of fishing gear responsibly, Notice of 1080 Poison Baiting, 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 on the Central Coast, Possums In Your Roof?: do the right thing, Aviaries + Possum Release Sites Needed, Bushcare in Pittwater: where + when, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment Activities, Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations in Pittwater, Ringtail Posses, Pittwater Reserves, Pittwater Environment History insights + Walks, Birds +

Inbox News Need a doctor or nurse after hours? How to get virtual or in‑person care in Australia – including for free, What should ‘foundational supports’ look like for people ineligible for the NDIS?, Australia is battling its worst diphtheria outbreak in decades. But vaccines could curb it, First video of immune cells eating live skin cancer in real time, Thousands of sheep and cows die in trucks and saleyards every year. They need better protection, A meteor exploded in the sky above New South Wales. An astronomer explains where it might have come from, Three ways to avoid being fooled by AI slop, View from The Hill: would a ‘party of independents’ be a contradiction in terms?, Why Australia’s cuts to news services in the Indo‑Pacific are a failure of soft diplomacy, Cricket and soccer are Australian sporting giants. How can they be struggling financially?, How the Great Pyramid of Giza has survived 4,500 years of Egyptian earthquakes, Nearly everything we use online is owned by big tech. There’s a better way forward, We are buzzing with excitement!: The Rotary E-Club of Greater Sydney has erected five Bee Poles,  Kings Birthday Honours Issue: Monday June 8, Bob Head: 70 Years of Service, Stronger sunscreen rules needed to restore confidence and protect Australians: AMA, In plain sight and never out of mind — national health crises can’t be hidden: AMA, What can we do to keep our brains healthy throughout our lives?, Doing puzzles and joining clubs could help you age well: new research, Support at Home price caps delayed, Nuns have always sat between freedom and control. Now they’re in the social media spotlight, New Liberal president Abbott tells party it must build bigger membership in time of ‘existential crisis’, We need a new anti‑corruption commissioner. Here’s how to pick the right one, Have Your Say Day 2026: Next Gen Speaks Up About What's Important to them, State Government's Road Transport Amendment (Non-registrable Motor Vehicles) Bill 2026 Passed, Throwing objects at Cars: Warning, Emperor Gum Moth, Australia by Train in 1962, 2026 Coins include Mob of Six Roos, Art exhibition honours veterans’ service in Greece and Crete 85 years on, Opportunities: Hub for girls makes career in sport a reality + Manly Warringah Netball Association MWNA: 2026 Mens League + Seas the Day 2026 + Bilgola SLSC Open Day; May 31 + More free live music added to Vivid Sydney’s Tumbalong Nights + Pathways for the Future gives insight into post-school choices + Northern Composure is back – Entries now open + Treasures of the Viking Age: The Galloway Hoard arrives at the ANMM + 2026 Premier's Reading Challenge, Financial help for young people, School Leavers Support, Word Of The Week: Verbatim, Rare male red pipefish carrying eggs on its trunk spotted in Sydney, Gina Rinehart and Southern Cross Austereo: what do billionaire media buyouts mean for democracy?, Miles Davis’s Kind of Blue is the highest selling jazz record of all time – he thought it was a failure, Game changers: how a rainy week led a frustrated Don Bradman to reinvent cricket, Beyond Disney: A 1616 portrait of Pocahontas shows how English colonizers saw Indigenous Americans

Scruby Sounds Warning on NSW Government's 'Community Participation Plan': Flats, Shop-top housing, New Dwellings, secondary dwellings, trees to be exempt from Exhibition - feedback closes June 3

491 Square Metre Liquor shop at Careel Bay Shops Approved: NCAT Review Request May be Lodged by Community  - Request for Review Closes June 16

Pictures: Bilgola Beach Environs 1860 to 2026: A Centenary Celebration of the Bilgola Beach Reserves

Council Push for Metro rail to Dee Why - Brookvale: Transport Network Review 2026 Feedback Closes June 15

Seas The Day 2026 returns to Kingscliff Beach NSW runs June 20-21 this year

Profile of the Week Mona Vale Raiders Junior Rugby League Club: their 2026 Season so far
 

Formed in 1964, the Mona Vale Raiders are one of the fastest growing and one of the most successful junior rugby league clubs in the Manly-Warringah District Junior Rugby League (MWDJRL) competition. The home of the mighty Mona Vale Junior Rugby League Club - better known as the Raiders - is Newport Oval - which is used by local cricket clubs during the offseason.

The club is keen to keep growing and with 800+ members and supporters from Under 6's through to Opens plus a growing female membership the Raiders need girls change rooms, better facilities and a clubhouse to meet that demand. In fact, the Raiders are the only junior rugby league club in Pittwater without a clubhouse.

Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby stated, after a visit to Newport Oval to look over the facilities with current Raiders president Hamish Mclean;

“Sports and sporting clubs are the heartbeat of our community yet they’ve been neglected for decades. I’m committed to investing the time and energy over the coming years to improve our sports facilities that have been neglected for decades. 

Although under council jurisdiction, I’ve called on the state government to come to the table with additional grant opportunities.  I’ve invited the Sports Minister to come to Pittwater and see these sites.’’

After a win in Round 6 of the 2026 Northern Open Age Gold with 5 wins in 6 games, the Mona Vale Raiders A Grade sit at the top of the ladder as we head into Round 7 today, Sunday May 31 2026.

This Issue a few insights into a true local family rugby league club and a chat with Mona Vale Raiders president Hamish Mclean, A Grade coach David Heath and a few words from the Raiders Committee on their Mission to be and remain 'A true local family rugby league club'.


Australia’s earliest surviving photograph is said to be by a Tasmanian photographer, George Baron Goodman, and of Dr William Bland, an ex-convict, prominent surgeon, humanitarian, social reformer and inventor. It was taken in 1845.

In New South Wales a gentleman engaged to work at the Sydney Mint, Robert Hunt is considered by many to be a pioneer of photography in New South Wales, so much so that 170 years since his first known photograph was taken, his works are still on display. 

Robert Hunt was an amateur photographer and clerk, born in London, the son of Henry Leigh Hunt and Ellen, née Simpson. He came to New South Wales in 1854 to work as chief clerk of the bullion office at the Royal Mint and soon started to practise photography as a hobby. Hunt and John Smith 's outdoor stereoscopic views taken in 1855 are believed to be the first colonial examples of this type of photograph on card. 

Mr Hunt also gave us early photos of the North Shore, from 1855, and Pittwater from 1884, and Manly from 1885.

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter:

May 1 2026 - includes: Noises Off: Why I like the play, and why I think you will too; Island Café; International Folk Dancing; Noises Off: tickets now on sale; Scotland Island Fire Brigade AGM; Flat for rent


Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Kings Birthday Honours Issue: Monday June 8

The 2026 Kings Birthday Honours List will be released Monday June 8 2026. Due to the time/date the next Issue of Pittwater Online will be published on Monday June 8, instead of the Sunday, and the Issue Notice sent out as soon as staff have been through the lists of those named and collated (fingers crossed) all those locals in the 2026 Honours Lists.
Thank you very much.

Bob Head: 70 Years of Service

Dr Sophie Scamps recently acknowledged and spoke about the important work of Avalon Beach SLSC and recognised Bob Head’s 70 years of service to the club, during a speech in the Australian Parliament.

Sophie highlighted your organisation’s contribution to our community and the positive impact of your volunteers and the organisation’s efforts. It is a wonderful reflection of the value of the work you do and the difference you make to people across the electorate.

You can view the full speech here.

Robyn and Bob Head with Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby. Pic: AJG/PON

Community Forum: Pittwater MP

MP for Pittwater Jacqui Scruby is hosting a Pittwater Community Forum at the Newport Community Centre on Wednesday 10 June at 6:00pm.

This will be an opportunity to hear an update on State issues affecting Pittwater, including transport (roads, buses and E-bikes), planning, health, education, Community Improvement Districts, small business support and other matters being raised by our community.

There will also be time for questions, so please come along and share the issues that matter most to you.

Event details
Date: Wednesday 10 June 2026
Time: 6:00pm
Location: Newport Community Centre

Places are limited. Please register here to secure your spot. 

Pittwater Business Invite

Both the Newport and Mona Vale Chambers of Commerce are working to activate Pittwater village commercial centres and support local small businesses.

On June 25 2026 an event will take place in Newport to bring everyone together. The Mona Vale Chamber of Commerce states:

'Join us in Newport for relaxed after-work drinks to help launch Pittwater Business and bring local businesses together in a genuinely easy, low-pressure way. Come say g’day to other owners and operators from across Pittwater, hear what the pilot is about, and be part of something local from the start.

Drinks are on us — just bring yourself (and feel free to bring another local business owner).

  • When: Thursday 25 June, 5:00pm–7:00pm
  • Where: 4 Pines Newport, 313 Barrenjoey Rd, Newport 
  • Cost: Complimentary drinks (RSVP essential)

Spots are limited, so please RSVP to help us plan.

To RSVP, please visit: HERE

Avalon Beach Historical Society June Meeting

MEETING NOTICE - JUNE 9, 2026
TOPIC: THE VALE STUDIOS - NARRABEEN
The next meeting of the Avalon Beach Historical Society will be held on TUESDAY, 9 JUNE. in the ANNEXE on Dunbar Park. The meeting will start at the usual time of 8.00 pm.

Geoff and Manly Daily historian John Morcombe have been members of the New South Wales Postcard Collectors Society for over 25 years. Between them, they have collected a total of 40 postcards produced by Hesketh George Swiney, who stamped the reverse of his cards ‘The Vale Studios - Narrabeen’.

His photography and processing are of the highest quality for its time and feature postcard views from Narrabeen to Barrenjoey.
We have only recently discovered more about the photographer and his interesting life, and we look forward to showing you the postcard collection.

Most of these postcards were produced prior to 1916, when Hesketh enlisted for war service and headed overseas. Because of that, some of the views might appear quite unfamiliar, so Bill Goddard and I have recently reproduced some of them to confirm their locations.

We received some very positive feedback from our March meeting; our presentation on the Ovens Sea Caves sparked a lot of interest. Special thanks to both Felicity Davis and her son, Russell, for their commentary and for sharing their family photos of the caves.

Guests of members are welcome to join us for the usual super supper after the meeting. Please remember to check whether your membership is current on entry the meeting.

We look forward to seeing you at our next meeting.
Geoff Searl (President)

Support Jason's road to recovery

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched for Mona Vale gym owner and Mona Vale Raiders JRLFC legend and former Warriors and Raiders NRL player Jason Death, who is in intensive care after a serious fall in May 2026. 

The fundraiser aims to support his rehabilitation and family.

Ashlee Green, who organised the fundraiser page, states:

A couple of weeks ago, our boss dear friend, Jason Death, had a serious fall, resulting in a fractured skull. 

He’s currently in ICU, facing more surgeries and a long road to recovery. It’s been hard to ask for help, but the generosity of our community has inspired us. Jason and his family are some of the kindest people around, and now it’s our turn to support them. Any donation, big or small, would be greatly appreciated. 

The Deaths have a long road ahead, and we’d love to support them in any way we can. We don’t know his full recovery path yet, but with your help and positive thoughts, we know he’ll get through this. Let’s rally together for Jason!

Support Jason and his family at: www.gofundme.com/support-jasons-road-to-recovery

Forest High School site up for DA Proposals

On Wednesday May 27 the NSW Government stated it will challenge housing providers to deliver the maximum amount of affordable housing on the former Forest High School site.

Property and Development NSW will undertake a Registration of Interest campaign to gauge private sector interest in developing the former high school site, with consideration given to the amount of affordable housing that providers can deliver, alongside ensuring value for money for taxpayers.

The former high school site was declared surplus following a NSW Government land audit, which found the site was no longer needed for school purposes and suitable for housing. The land audit has so far identified sites capable of delivering approximately 12,400 homes for families across the state.

The former Forest High School site will be transformed into a mixed-use town centre with new dwellings, including affordable homes for key workers such as staff at the neighbouring Northern Beaches Hospital.

The approximately 6.3-hectare site has a developable footprint of 3.3-hectares zoned for mixed use with a height limit of up to 40 metres and maximum floor space ratio of 2.75:1. The remainder of the site is zoned E2 commercial and RE1 public recreation, ensuring that accessible green open space will be available to current and future residents.

The new Forest High School at Allambie Heights opened its doors to students from Term One 2026 allowing for the transformation of the former school site to take place.

The high school relocation and new town centre are among five big moves proposed in the Frenchs Forest 2041 Place Strategy which aims to deliver around 1,000 homes in the new town centre with a minimum of 150 dwellings set aside for affordable housing.

In June, Property and Development NSW will launch a Registration of Interest campaign to gauge private sector interest in developing the former high school site. Interested parties can submit a Registration of Interest via the NSW Government’s tendering portalwww.buy.nsw.gov.au

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

“We’re determined to use every lever we have to tackle the housing crisis, and that means challenging the market to deliver more affordable homes where they’re needed most.

“The property audit continues to unlock opportunities to deliver more homes sooner on government-owned land.

“The former Forest High School site will be transformed into a revitalised town centre including more than 1,000 new homes and, most importantly, at least 150 of these dedicated to affordable housing for the key workers including frontline health staff working next-door at Northern Beaches Hospital.

"We’re laying down the challenge to housing providers: the more affordable housing you can deliver, the stronger your proposal will be."

Member for Wakehurst Michael Regan said:

“I am thrilled that the next phase of the Frenchs Forest Place Strategy is officially underway as the Government unlocks the former high school site for a significant injection of much needed key worker housing. This is a once in a generation opportunity for our community.

“The revitalised town centre, which will occupy this site, will sit alongside our Northern Beaches Hospital which, after a long and difficult journey over the past 7 years, is now owned and operated as part of NSW’s public health system.

“The redevelopment of the old Forest High School site as the new town centre is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to shift the dial on affordable and key worker accommodation on the Northern Beaches. Bus drivers, police, teachers, nurses and health care workers, to name just a few, should be able to live in the communities where they work. This will be a game changer for our community if we get this right. We need to think big. I am determined to make sure we don’t let this opportunity pass us by.”

Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week

Mintie 

2yo Japanese Spitz

Minty is a lively inquisitive Japanese Spitz. He is cheeky and playful and enjoys lots of exercise. Minty is social with other small dogs. He loves toys, especially squeaky or scrunchy ones. Minty is smart. He is very food motivated so easy to train but he does need rules around the house. He has a fluffy coat that needs regular brushing or grooming and weighs 13.1kg. Mintie would cope with apartment living and part time hours alone. He is desexed , fully vaccinated, heartworm free and chipped. His adoption cost is $700. 

Squirt 

6mths Domestic Short Hair

Squirt is a very sweet smoochy kitten who has palled up with Beau whilst residing with us but can be adopted separately. This handsome boy weighs 2.4kg. All our cats come desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV/FeLV tested if over 6 months old and microchipped. His adoption fee is $220. 

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

Women Helping Women SES workshop 2026

What would you do during a storm if your roof started leaking?
We're excited to announce our Women Helping Women workshop 2026 will be on the 14th June 2-4:30pm at Warringah Pittwater NSW SES unit- Gate 3, Thompson Dr, Terrey Hills.

This FREE workshop is designed to support and encourage women to learn practical skills that could one day help protect their homes and family during a storm, flood or tsunami.


NSW SES Warringah / Pittwater Unit

Have your say on Health Star Ratings

Australians are being invited to have their say on Health Star Ratings as Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) opens its first formal call for submissions.

The consultation comes after Food Ministers agreed to progress work towards mandating Health Star Ratings on packaged foods across Australia and New Zealand. 

Under proposed changes, most packaged foods sold in shops will need to carry a rating, giving consumers clear, easy to understand nutritional information at a glance, helping them to make healthier choices for themselves and their families. 

Mandatory Health Star Rating labelling would enhance consumer choice and create a level playing field for food producers, providing clarity and consistency across the market.

The Health Star Rating system is currently voluntary, with only 39 per cent of foods in Australia and 36 per cent in New Zealand displaying a rating.

Seven in 10 consumers use the rating system at least sometimes when shopping, and most agree it makes it easier to identify healthier products.

Consumers, health groups, industry, government and other interested stakeholders are invited to provide feedback to FSANZ up until 21 June, with information on its website. 

The Hon Rebecca White MP, Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, stated:

“The Albanese Government is committed to making it easier for people to choose healthier food for themselves and their families. 

“Right now, not every product carries a Health Star Rating, which can make it harder for people to make informed choices when they’re standing in the supermarket aisle.

“Putting simple, clear information on the front of packaging, will ensure all shoppers can quickly and easily make healthier choices for themselves and their family.”  

Throwing objects at Cars: Warning

Northern Beaches Police Area Command warn throwing missiles or objects at cars is illegal and dangerous. People may be hurt or killed. Offenders will be arrested and charged - with severe penalties if charges are proved.

For more, click here to head to the Crimes Act 1900 Sect 49A:

Celebrating Luke Speers

Bar Veinte have a very important event happening this Sunday 31st May.

A Celebration of Life of the wonderful Luke Speers. If you’ve ever been to Bar Veinte then you would probably remember this vibrant young man who served customers with his big smile and genuine kindness.

Please come and make this day appropriately enormous.
There will be live bands, a DJ and most importantly some special performances from those who knew and loved Luke.
Absolutely everybody is welcome.

All proceeds from the event will be donated to Mission Australia.
1PM • 10PM
BAR VEINTE
1 Waratah St, Mona Vale

Liquor shop at Careel Bay Shops Approved

Notice of approval received May 20 2026
Trading Hours: 9am to 9pm Monday to Saturday, from 10am on Sundays.

The applicant's  Statement of Risks and Potential Effects (SoRPE) states:
'This proposal involves an application for the grant of a Dan Murphy’s branded bottleshop (the DM Store) at 1-3 Careel Head Road (cnr Barrenjoey Road) Avalon Beach (the Site). The existing shopping centre at the Site is to be demolished and a purpose-built mixed use shopping centre is to replace it (the Centre). The Centre will include the DM store at ground level, a childcare centre at Level 1, and a handful of specialty shops together with off-street parking and landscaping'.

The Applicant acknowledges 'the potential for some incremental negative impacts due to adding another licence in the community but argues that in this case the foreseeable cumulative impacts would be minimal'.

The local character of the area is low density residential, with significant sporting facilities for the local community that front Careel Bay to the west.

The Licence will permit the sale and supply of liquor by retail in sealed containers for consumption away from the licensed premises (except when tastings occur on the licensed premises). It will occupy a licensed area of about 491 sqm. 

'Due to the comparative size of the DM Store, it will be considered a boutique operation

It will carry approximately 2,800 items of liquor stock (well short of the usual 4,000 ranged at a typical Dan Murphy’s store). It will include a smaller trading area and it will target wine enthusiasts to discover and experience premium wines.'

'The DM Store will not compete with the Dan Murphy’s Mona Vale store on price or range. The point is that the LC and BC already have access to large Dan Murphy’s stores as part of their shopping experience. ' the SoRPE states

'However, the Centre will replace a tired but existing (successful) neighbourhood shopping centre. ' the SoRPE continues

'The new Centre will be popular to the public who live in this location (now and in the future) and to members of the public who pass by as they travel on their way home or to work or when attending sporting and other recreational facilities accessed along this route. There is a clear benefit in providing all these people with convenient shopping in this location in the future'. 

The Statement of Risks and Potential Effects( SoRPE) acknowledges there are 5 other liquor stores in the suburb of Avalon Beach:
Winona Wine Avalon (date of grant 10.10.2024); Clareville Cellars Fine Wine & Beer (date of grant 30.4.2008); Chambers Cellars (date of grant 31.3.2004); Mr Liquor North Avalon (date of grant 30.4.1979) and Liquorland Cellars (date of grant 1.5.1950).

All these are already 'boutique' liquor stores.

The existence of Palm Beach Cellars, another store with a 'boutique' wine section, does not figure in the SoRPE either. However:
'With respect to the two clubs in the LC we confirm that the Avalon Beach RSL Club does not have a separate bottle shop, but provides a limited over the counter packaged liquor offering as a matter of convenience for attendees.'

'The BOCSAR data for the 12-month period ending June in each year confirms that in June 2007 related assaults occurred in the Local Centre (Avalon Beach) and in June 2025 there were 6 incidents.' the SoRPE states

NCAT Reviews
The NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) conducts de novo merits reviews of licensing decisions made by the Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority (ILGA) or Liquor & Gaming NSW. These reviews allow stakeholders to have complex liquor applications and appeals heard afresh by the tribunal.

The applicant can be the original business owner (who was refused a license) or any third party (such as local councils, police, or community groups) who previously lodged a submission and are unhappy with ILGA's approval.

NCAT review request end date: 16 Jun 2026
Details available at HERE


Photo: AJG/PON

Not done yet
The news service understands the remaining tenant has a current lease with option to continue which has not yet been resolved. That tenant, when last spoken with, had not heard back from the new owners.


Application for Dan Murphy's at Careel Head Road

Application Details: Dan Murphy's at 1-3 Careel Head Road,, AVALON BEACH NSW 2107
Application number: APP-0015360276

Date posted: 16 Dec 2025
Submission period end date: 15 Jan 2026
Application type: New licence - packaged liquor - bottle shop
Status: Under assessment


Roadworks

North Narrabeen - Intersection Upgrade - Pittwater Road between Wakehurst Parkway and Arnott Crescent; Thu 28 May 2026 to Fri 26 Jun 2026, 9pm to 5am
Advice: Reduced speed limit (40km/h), follow directions on site, allow extra travel time. Traffic lights at the intersection of Pittwater Rd and Lake Park Rd will be blacked out or flashing, and portable traffic lights will allow motorists to pass in one direction at a time. No work will take place on the night of Mon 8 Jun.

Frenchs Forest: Resurfacing - Wakehurst Parkway between Warringah Road and Dreadnought Road; Mon 18 May 2026 to Mon 8 Jun 2026, 8pm to 5am
Advice: Reduced speed limit (40km/h), follow directions on site, allow extra travel time. Portable traffic lights will allow motorists to pass in one direction at a time.

Frenchs Forest: Intersection Upgrade - Warringah Road between Fitzpatrick Avenue West and Wakehurst Parkway; Thu 28 May 2026 to Thu 25 Jun 2026, 9pm to 5am
Advice: Reduced speed limit (40km/h), follow directions on site, allow extra travel time. Traffic lights at the intersection of Warringah Rd and Forest Way will be blacked out or flashing, and portable traffic lights will allow motorists to pass in one direction at a time. No work will take place on the night of Mon 8 Jun.

Newport to Bilgola Track Night Works Notice

The council advises that an additional period of night works is required to construct pilings for the pathway.

Night works will:
  • take place near the Newport Beach carpark over 4 nights - Thursday 28 and Friday 29 May, and Monday 1 and Tuesday 2 June
  • be between 8pm and 5.30am
  • involve a contraflow / stop-go on Barrenjoey Road with traffic control on site.
The contractor will seek to minimise disruption by completing noisier works before midnight (12am).

There will also be ongoing daytime traffic restrictions on The Serpentine, with Bilgola Avenue to Barrenjoey Road closed southbound one day per week during May-June.

We expect to complete construction by September 2026, weather permitting.

Thank you for your patience as we deliver this community project.

NBC

Bilgola end of Newport to Bilgola track/'coastwalk',  photo taken March 17 2026. Pic: AJG/PON - site investigation for 2026 Bilgola Beach Public Reserves History page

Anthony Hardwick Paddle out

Digital Wellbeing Event

Join us at Avalon Public school hall on Friday 19 June, 9:45–10:30am for an engaging parent session exploring digital wellbeing and the realities of growing up with constant connectivity.

Hear from specialist speakers as they unpack how smartphones, devices and social media are shaping children’s lives today. A clinical psychologist will share practical, research-informed insights into how screen use impacts young minds and what this means for families.

You’ll also learn about Wait Mate, a growing initiative supporting families to delay smartphone use and rethink the role of technology in childhood—giving children more time to play, connect and simply be kids.

This is a valuable opportunity for parents and carers to come together, build understanding and consider simple, collective actions that support healthier digital habits for our children.

Free. Spaces are limited. 

Multicultural NSW CEO Joseph La Posta departs after almost a decade of service

Announced: Thursday May28 2026
The following is a statement from Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper

Following almost a decade of service to Multicultural NSW, including seven and a half years as CEO and two years on the Multicultural NSW Advisory Board, Joseph La Posta will conclude with the agency to take up a new senior role in the NSW public service.

During his tenure, Joseph has made a significant contribution to the people and communities of NSW. Under his leadership, Multicultural NSW expanded its support for refugee settlement and community programs, while the agency’s Language Services Division grew from a bespoke team to a well-utilised statewide service.

At some of the most challenging moments in our state’s history, Joseph has been on the frontline leading our state’s multicultural communities.

He led our multicultural society throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring urgent health advice and business support was communicated to our multilingual communities.  

He served as Coordinator General on the Bondi terror attack community response, working across government, non-government organisations, charities and the private sector to ensure those affected received the support they needed.

A respected leader, mentor and advocate for multicultural communities, Joseph has built strong relationships across government and the community sector, championing inclusion, social cohesion and stronger outcomes for culturally diverse communities across the state.  

I want to thank Joseph for his leadership and lasting contribution to Multicultural NSW and the broader public sector.  

His dedication and compassion have had a profound and lasting impact on communities across NSW, and he leaves Multicultural NSW stronger, more connected and well positioned for the future.

The following is a statement from Multicultural NSW Chief Executive Officer Joseph La Posta:

It has been an absolute privilege to serve the communities of NSW and to work alongside people from so many diverse backgrounds who make this state stronger, more vibrant and more connected.

I have also been fortunate to work with an extraordinary group of colleagues at Multicultural NSW. Their professionalism, care and commitment to the community inspires me every day.  

I am deeply grateful for the broader network of public servants, Advisory Board members, Faith Affairs Council and community leaders across the sector who are dedicated to delivering better outcomes for the people of NSW.

The work of Multicultural NSW is ultimately about people, belonging and opportunity, and I leave incredibly proud of what we have been able to achieve together.

Nominate a Nurse

On International Nurses Day, May 12, nurses across NSW were recognised for the kind, compassionate and high-quality care they provide to their communities every day.

This year, the contributions of nurses and midwives are being further recognised through the 2026 Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards.

If you know a nurse or midwife who provided extraordinary and compassionate care, nominate them for the Healing Heart Award.

Nominations for the Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards are open until 12 June. People can nominate on the NSW Health website.  

Warriewood SLSC's Biggest Morning Tea 

We’re excited to invite our wonderful Warriewood community to come together for Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea — a chance to share a cuppa, connect, and support those impacted by cancer.

Where: Warriewood SLSC Members Area
Date: Sunday 21 June 2026
Time: 10am – 11.30am
Host: Cathy Milliken
Entry: $10 (cash/card)
Bring: Your own cup or mug
Provided: Tea, coffee, juice + delicious food to share
RSVP by: Friday 19 June via email: millikencathy@gmail.com

Donations, raffle prizes and shared food are warmly welcomed.
Let’s come together for a beautiful morning in support of the Cancer Council. 💛✨


Applications open for grants to improve the lives of people with disability

On Friday May 8 the Australian Government launched an open competitive grant funding opportunity for organisations supporting people with disability, their families and carers.

The Disability Peer Support and Connections Program is the next phase of disability supports, building upon recent reforms to the Information, Linkages and Capacity Building (ILC) Program.

Funded organisations will share in up to $517 million over 5 years, to deliver programs that boost independence and empower people with disability to make their own decisions and speak up for themselves.

Organisations will also be funded to provide trusted high-quality information and advice so people with disability know where to turn for support and available services.

This will help to improve consistency, quality and national coverage of supports for people with disability, their families and carers, as recommended by the Independent Review into the National Disability Insurance Scheme and consultations on foundational supports.

The Government will continue working with States and Territories to ensure the new program's success.

Full details, including eligibility and application guidelines can be found on GrantConnect and the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing website.

Applications close July 2 2026
Total Amount Available (AUD): $517,000,000.00

For more information on the phased transition of reforms to the ILC Program please visit the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing website.

 

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


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.  Simply enter:
  1. The position via GPS or road and suburb
  2. The date
  3. The animal

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  June 2025  July 2025  August 2025  September 2025  October 2025  November 2025  December 2025

January 2026  February 2026  March 2026  April 2026  May 2026

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

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. 

There are  2 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. Deborah Hendy(Carter) J.P

Report Hate Crimes

Recent reports to the news service would indicate this reminder is needed at present.

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.

When not on social media and when there is no crime committed, but an action is still motivated by hate, prejudice or bias, it is known as a hate incident. Both hate crimes and hate incidents are taken very seriously by the NSW Police.

When you report hate that you witness or experience, you become part of a larger movement to remove it from our society.

What you can expect from the NSW Police Force:
  • Every report is taken seriously by the NSW Police Force.
  • You can expect a respectful and straightforward experience.
  • A translator will be used if required.
  • When you report to the police, they will request your details. You can choose not to provide these details at the time of reporting however, this will likely affect how police can proceed with an investigation.
  • Support services or contact with an appropriate liaison officer will be offered.
  • You will be kept informed of what happens next, your rights and the criminal process (if someone was able to be charged).
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.  
For more information, visit  www.police.nsw.gov.au/crime/hate_crimes

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. 
Send yours via email to: pittwateronlinenews@live.com.au