Pittwater Online News

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 28/5/2018 

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To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

ASG-MWP Commemorates National Sorry Day

Pittwater Environmental Foundation Directors Appointed

About 33% (about 1600 ha excluding National Parks) of the original pre-European bushland in Pittwater remains in a reasonably natural or undisturbed condition. Of this, only about 400ha remains in public ownership. 

All remaining natural bushland is subject to encroachment, illegal clearing, weed invasion, feral animals, altered drainage, bushfire hazard reduction requirements and other edge effects. Within Pittwater 38 species of plants or animals are listed as endangered or threatened under the Threatened Species Act. There are endangered populations and eight endangered ecological communities or types of bushland. 

Enhancements To Dog Off-Leash Area - Careel Bay

Scotland Island Water And Wastewater Commercial Feasibility Study 2018

Testing The Water At Bayview Baths

Sporting Grants Windfall

BHS: Call Out To All Ex Students!

Mermaids Of Palm Beach Commence B To B Bash 2018 Fundraising

Update On The Ingleside Planned Precinct

‘Do Not Call Register’ Scams

Throw In Your Line! Apply For Gone Fishing Day Grants

Entries Now Open For Northern Beaches Art Prize

DoggieRescue.com

Pet of the Week

Hazel

AGE/SEX: 3-4 years / F

BREED: Shepherd X Cattle

Hazel is an affectionate girl who loves her walks and loves being around kids. She is SUPER KID FRIENDLY. She is social with dogs but can be choosy about her friends. Out walking she walks on loose lead, ignoring cars but gets stressed with lots of other dogs around and will lunge at passing dogs. She loves a jog and really enjoys being patted. She sits on command. She has a short coat and weighs 22kg. She comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. Her adoption cost is $450. 

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary 2018 Stalls

The Imminent Threat To Newport And Avalon…

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 20/5/2018 

click on Logo: 

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

BHS: Call Out To All Ex Students!

Mermaids Of Palm Beach Commence B To B Bash 2018 Fundraising

Dog Race Inspiration For Pittwater Artists Trail Winter Exhibition 2018

Update On The Ingleside Planned Precinct

Throw In Your Line! Apply For Gone Fishing Day Grants

Entries Now Open For Northern Beaches Art Prize

DoggieRescue.com

Pet of the Week

Gideon

AGE/SEX: 18 months / M

BREED: Kelpie X

Gideon is a friendly active boy who loves people interaction. He is very excited to go for a walk and walks at a good pace. He prefers to jog and run! He also enjoys cuddles, belly rubs and being patted. He would suit an active family with 8+yo children. He has a short coat and weighs 16.5kg. He comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. His adoption cost is $400. 

Expressions Of Interest - Membership Of NSW Health Boards

The Pittwater Special Rate Improvement Plan

Re: Draft Delivery Program Page 66

Could Readers contacting this news service regarding the details not shown of the planned expenditure under this plan, while pointing it is available it is under the Manly Environmental Levy, please contact the Northern Beaches Council or make a submission by next Sunday - link provided below - requesting that document include those details. 

From the Draft:

P 66: Special Rate: Improvement Program - Former

Pittwater Local Government Area

In June 2011 IPART approved the former Pittwater Council’s application for a special rate.

This resulted in an increase in rates over three years (2011-2014) and generating approximately $39 million in funds for infrastructure works and environmental programs over a 10 year period.

A Community Contract was established to ensure accountability and transparency. The rate is levied and spent on the basis of the Community Contract’s following principles:

• Upgrade and retrofit infrastructure through carefully targeted, high priority ‘on ground works’

• Schedule of projects to be incorporated into Pittwater Council’s Annual Delivery Program

• Funding derived from the SRV will be distributed across the program of works over the 10 year period

• The Pittwater SRV will also support ‘seed’ funding within the works program

• Funding proportions may vary from year to year to achieve economic efficiency through the pooling of funds

• Reporting to be undertaken to ensure transparency

Draft Delivery Program: Community Feedback Sought

The Northern Beaches Council draft Delivery Program is now available for the community to ask questions and provide feedback. The document is available online at HERE until Sunday 27 May.

ASG-MWP Commemorates National Sorry Day

Sorry Day this year will be at Mona Vale Memorial Hall as the Elanora Scout Hall at Narrabeen is undergoing repair.

National Sorry Day is an Australia-wide observance which gives people the chance to come together and share the steps towards healing for the Stolen Generations, their families and communities.

This is a Free event.

Sunday May 27th, 2018

Start time 2.00pm till 6.00pm

Welcome to Country – Smoking ceremony and a one minute

silence for the Stolen Generation.

A reading from Auntie Nancy Wood’s short book of poetry Nobody’s Child.

Guest speaker talk about the Stolen Generation.

• All afternoon a free sausage BBQ and afternoon tea will be available.
  
• Singing by local Aboriginal Sisters.
  
• Free Kids painting – paint your own boomerang or do Colouring in and take it home with you.
  
• Basket weaving with Karleen Green.
  
• Aboriginal Dancers with the young children joining in dancing and playing the clap sticks, having fun.
  
• Two local Didge players.
  
• Aboriginal artefacts on display – things that have never been on display before.
  
• For the young ones, a gift bag from ASG.
  

Come and join us and share the steps towards healing for the Stolen Generations, their families and communities.

 

Click on logo above to visit their website.

Return And Earn Is At Pittwater RSL

Drink container litter makes up 44% of the volume of all litter in the state and costs more than $162 million to manage.

Return you empty bottles and cans to earn your 10c for every eligible container returned for recycling.

Eligible containers include:

- Drinks cans

- Glass bottles for beer, cider or soft drinks

- Plastic bottles for water, soft drinks or flavoured milk

- Single serve sized drinks cartons

(Wine and spirit bottles and casks, plain milk bottles and bottles for cordial or fruit juice are not eligible).

The returned containers are collected from us and then sorted for recycling.

You have three options of what to do with your refunds:

- Use the myTOMRA app (for iOS or Android) to deposit the funds straight into a PayPal account

- Donate to one of four charity partners (currently Cancer Council, Vinnies, Planet Ark or Surf Life Saving NSW)

- Take a voucher to redeem or spend at Woolworths

https://www.facebook.com/NSWGovCDS/

2018 AGM

The Annual General Meeting of Pittwater RSL will be held on Sunday 27th May at 10am in the Club's Auditorium.

Applications Open For Community Building Partnership Program

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes is encouraging local community and sporting groups to apply for funds under the NSW Government’s 2018 Community Building Partnership Program.

 

As part of this year’s program $330,000 will be distributed to community-led infrastructure projects in Pittwater.

 

Almost 50 local projects have been supported by this program since 2011. This includes the expansion of the Northern Beaches Indoor Sports Centre at Warriewood, playground improvements at Narrabeen Community Kindergarten, walkway improvements on Scotland Island, Marine Rescue’s upgraded wharf at Cottage Point, Pittwater High School’s security fence upgrade, improvements to local surf clubs, construction of a walkway alongside Mona Vale Golf Club, Narrabeen Sports High School’s synthetic playing field, accessibility improvements at Currawong and the upcoming construction of a new community performance space at Barrenjoey High School. 

 

“This is a great opportunity to kick start community-led projects that will provide wide-reaching benefits,” Rob Stokes said today.

 

“There are dozens of local projects that have benefited from this program over recent years and I’m looking forward to this continuing.

 

“Many local groups undertake extensive fundraising - but simply need a bit more funding to enable their projects to proceed.

 

“Projects that will provide long-term infrastructure improvements and are supported by leveraged funds have been particularly successful in recent rounds.

 

“Applications for this year’s program are now open and will be accepted until 5pm on 15 June.

 

Further details on the program and information on how to apply is available by visiting www.communitybuildingpartnership.nsw.gov.au

717 School Bus Along Whale Beach Road: Changes Coming

To parents of students using the 717 bus route from Palm Beach along Whale Beach Road: the bus is mostly late in the mornings due to being unable to move freely along this road.

The bus drivers have been just as frustrated by this, as they regularly have to stop their bus and knock on doors to ask people to move the vehicles blocking the way- see e.g. in pic below.

In the afternoons the bus is full which shows there are definitely children/families wanting to use it, they just don’t want to be late to school in the mornings.

HOWEVER, changes are coming!

New parking signs will be up in “the next week or so” which means this bus should arrive at its scheduled time of 9:06 am at school.

If this is of interest to people, please could you pass on to those affected. Students using the school bus ultimately means less cars in Avalon.

Once the signs have gone up, allowing a clear run for the drivers this service will meet its timetable. Then hopefully families/youngsters can feel more confident about getting to school on time.

This 717 morning bus service is at the critical point of “USE IT OR LOSE IT” for the next 6 months or so - even though there are valid reasons why families haven’t used it.

To this end, please make sure your child uses their opal card so data collection at Transport for NSW headquarters reflects accurately the volume of students using this service.

Avalon Primary to Whale Beach Loop (Timetable PDF)

Old Barrenjoey Rd near Avalon Primary, Avalon            15:37

Avalon Community Library, Old Barrenjoey Rd, Avalon 15:39

Coonanga Rd near Tasman Rd, Avalon           08:39     15:44

Whale Beach Rd near Surf Rd, Whale Beach 08:48     15:53

Avalon Pde at Old Barrenjoey Rd, Avalon        09:04     16:09

Avalon Public School, Bellevue Ave, Avalon    09:06

News/Photo courtesy Emily Ashton

Design Guide For Heritage - Have Your Say

May 18, 2018: NSW Office of Environment and Heritage

The Heritage Council of NSW has released a draft design guide intended to make it easier to manage heritage design works.

Heritage Council of NSW chair, Stephen Davies said the guide provides heritage industry professionals, heritage owners, urban planners and developers with up to date advice on managing heritage design works.

The draft guide was released at the NSW Heritage Forum at the University of Technology, Sydney today.

“This Design Guide for Heritage has been created to help those who own, regulate, oversee or are working to develop heritage items,” Mr Davies said.

“It will help them understand how to protect the heritage and context of heritage projects, while ensuring an ongoing commitment to good design.

“It will encourage anyone working with heritage items and places to carefully and appropriately use good design.

“This will ensure any new work protects heritage significance and safeguards the character and experience of historic places.

“This guide puts our state’s heritage squarely at the forefront of thinking, planning and designing,” he said.

This publication is part of the NSW Government Architect’s ‘Better Placed’ suite of documents, which was developed to provide over-arching design policy for NSW.

The partnership with the Office of the Government Architect NSW was intended to ensure best practice outcomes for industry and communities.

The draft Design Guide for Heritage is now on public exhibition so community members and industry stakeholders can have their say on what it should include to ensure heritage is protected for future generations.

Submissions close Friday 17 August 2018.

To find out more go to Better Placed: Heritage Design Guide

Mushrooming: The Deadly Risk Of A Popular Autumn Pastime

May 19, 2018: NSW Health

After a recent cluster of poisonings, NSW Health is urging people not to eat potentially deadly mushrooms picked in the field.

NSW Health’s Director of the Environmental Health, Dr Benjamin Scalley, cautioned people against eating wild mushrooms after 38 poisoning hospitalisations this year, including 14 children, were reported to the NSW Poisons Information Centre.

“In Autumn alone, prime mushroom-growing season, there have been 27 poisoning hospitalisations so far, ten of them children.

“Unidentified mushrooms picked in the wild can make you very ill and could be lethal, so people should only eat shop-bought mushrooms,” Dr Scalley said.

“Cooler, wetter weather is making good growing conditions for wild mushrooms. But it is difficult for most people to recognise edible from poisonous mushrooms.

“Eating poisonous mushrooms can cause severe abdominal pains, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, sweating, confusion and hallucinations. Some varieties of mushrooms can be fatal causing severe kidney and liver damage.”

Dr Scalley said cooking or boiling wild mushrooms does not make them safe to eat, so it is best to avoid eating wild mushrooms unless they have been bought from a shop.

Jared Brown, Head of the Poisons Information, said in Australia there are some poisonous wild mushrooms that look similar to edible wild mushrooms found in Asia or Europe.

“There are many mushroom species growing in the wild including the Death Cap mushroom (Amanita phalloides), for example, which can cause serious poisoning, and potentially fatal organ damage,” Mr Brown said.

“There is no reliable way to identify mushrooms picked in the wild. Their appearance can often change at different stages of its growth, and can look similar to edible mushroom species, making it very difficult, even for an expert, to differentiate.”

“We strongly advise that people do not pick or consume wild mushrooms at all. It is simply not worth the risk.”

Between 2014-17, there have been 281 hospitalisations from mushroom poisoning in NSW and ACT, with the Poisons Information Centre receiving 893 calls from people eating wild mushrooms in the same period.

Anyone who ingests wild mushrooms should contact the Poisons Information Centre (13 11 26) immediately, even if they are completely well as symptoms can be delayed in onset and early treatment is vital.

In an emergency, people should call 000 for an ambulance or seek medical treatment through their doctor or local hospital emergency department.

Vivid Sydney At Taronga Zoo Special Event Clearways

Fri 25 May 2018 - Sat 16 Jun 2018

Traffic arrangements: Special event clearways - Show details

Download maps - Show details

Advice: Use public transport

Check signage

Public transport: Plenty of transport services will run to get you to Vivid Sydney at Taronga Zoo. Plan your trip at transportnsw.info.

Other Info:  Celebrating its 10th anniversary Vivid Sydney returns to light up Taronga Zoo for 3 ticketed sessions at 5:30pm, 6:30pm and 7:30pm. Last entries at 8:30pm and the Zoo closes at 9:30pm.

No planned road closures will be in place around the Zoo however there will be strict parking restrictions.

Special event clearway parking restrictions will be in effect on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights from 5pm to 10pm on sections Bradleys Head Rd and Athol Wharf Rd between Taronga Zoo Wharf and Whiting Beach Rd.

Clearways are no parking zones and apply even for local residents and permit holders. Check signs carefully as vehicles left in clearways will be towed and a fee applies.

Location: View on map

NSW Launches School Curriculum Review

Sunday, 13 May 2018: Media release

The NSW Government has launched the first comprehensive review of the entire school curriculum since 1989 to ensure our education system is preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

 

Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Education Minister Rob Stokes announced a review of the NSW school curriculum from Kindergarten to Year 12.

 

“The world has changed rapidly since the last comprehensive review in 1989 and we must ensure the curriculum is as strong as it can be,” Ms Berejiklian said.

 

“We want to ensure our students have every opportunity with the skills needed for the jobs of the future. This includes a greater focus on the basics including English, maths and the sciences."

 

Mr Stokes said the review would implement findings of David Gonski’s latest report into Australian school education.

 

“Our review puts David Gonski’s report into practice and will tailor the national education reform agenda to the NSW context,” Mr Stokes said.

 

“Several recent national reports on improving educational outcomes call for curriculum review, and we are keen to ensure that these reports are answered by real action.

 

“This is a once in a generation chance to examine, declutter, and improve the NSW curriculum to make it simpler to understand and to teach.”

 

The curriculum review also supports the premise that while the goals and values of education remain eternal, the methods of achieving these outcomes have dramatically changed, particularly with the development of information technology over the past 30 years.

 

The review will therefore examine the role of new technologies and teaching methods in delivering the curriculum.

 

The Minister said it is essential that the review draws on the expertise of teachers and ensures the curriculum continues to support them in the important work they do.

 

Another core component will be ensuring that Australian perspectives are included throughout the curriculum. This will include maintaining a strong emphasis on Australian literature, scientific discoveries and key events that have shaped our history.

 

“For Australia to continue to mature, we must first have pride in what has made us great,” Mr Stokes said.

 

“We are a proud pioneering nation. The tyranny of distance once meant we had to invent, improvise, and do things for ourselves. A by-product of this isolation was innovation and the cultivation of incredible minds. It is time to look at how we can best support students to develop that mindset and those skills in the complex modern world.”

 

The NSW Education Standards Authority will engage Professor Geoff Masters, CEO of the Australian Council for Educational Research to lead the review.

 

Professor Masters was supportive of the broad directions of the Gonski report and said the NSW Curriculum Review will need to focus strongly on implementation issues and look for ways it can be decluttered and simplified.

 

“This review is a timely opportunity to demonstrate how the national reform agenda can be successfully tailored to the specific needs and context of high performing state education system. This is how Commonwealth/State collaboration should work,” Professor Masters said.

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary 2018 Stalls

The Imminent Threat To Newport And Avalon…

Click on logo above to visit their website.

Pittwater Community Groups: 

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 8/5/2018 

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To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Dear Pittwater Resident,

Saturday, May 12, is the second anniversary of the amalgamation of Pittwater into the Northern Beaches Council.

To mark the date, Protect Pittwater will be delivering our proposal/ petition for the re-instatement of Pittwater Council within its original boundaries to the NSW Government.

Because the actual anniversary is on a weekend, we will take the Proposal to Parliament House on the next sitting day - which is Tuesday May 15.

We will also deliver a statement to NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian containing a motion passed at the Protect Pittwater community forum last week, calling for her to demerge the councils.

Protect Pittwater has booked a bus for the trip and we are inviting supporters to travel with us.

Details of the trip are as follows:

Date: Tuesday May 15

Meeting place: Newport Beach car park

Time: 10.45am for 11am departure.

If you have anything turquoise - like the old Pittwater colour - please consider wearing it for the day. We also have turquoise T-shirts made up that we'll hand out in Newport before we leave to wear over clothes of other colours.

We’ll disembark outside Parliament House in time for the rally from 1 to 2pm.

After the rally, a small contingent will take the proposal into the Local Government Minister's office and everyone else will re-board the bus for Newport (so that the less fit amongst us don't have to stand for too long.)

You don't need to bring anything special but it might be worth packing a light lunch and something to drink. We're making some placards and a banner with a turquoise background. If you feel like making one of your own please bring it along. 

To book a seat on the bus please call 0439 788 867.

For anyone working in the city on Tuesday, it would be great if you could join us during lunchtime for the rally.

Hope to see you on Tuesday.

Protect Pittwater Association

Avalon Youth Hub Launch

Friday, May 18 at 4 PM - 6 PM

59 Barrenjoey Road, Avalon

Hosted by  Avalon Youth Hub and The Burdekin Association

We are excited to invite you to the official launch of the new Avalon Youth Hub, a collaborative project by local service providers to address a need for community services for mental health in the Pittwater area, which has historically been lacking.

Join us for music and food from 4 til 6.

Please share and invite anyone along whom you think would like to come!

The Hub officially opens on Monday 21st May. 

Hours (for now) are 

Monday 12-5

Wednesday 3-5

Thursday 3-5

Warriewood SLSC Chieftain Challenge Ocean Swim: New Date

STOP PRESS: This event is rescheduled to Saturday, May 19, with a start time of 11am. All entries received for the earlier date (April 28)roll over to the new date.

Visit: www.oceanswims.com/warriewood-nsw-e.html

The Chieftain’s Challenge is a highly achievable run-swim-run from Mona Vale to Warriewood on Sydney’s northern beaches.

A rare run-swim-run event, this growing category is becoming popular with the introduction of events like the 3 Points Challenge (North Curl Curl), Bondi Splash n Dash and Swimrun.

The course, which can be completed solo, or as a team, consists of four ocean swims broken up by three runs. The total course distance is approx 3.4km, that includes 1.9km of ocean swimming and 1.5km of running.

All run legs are on the sand, so no shoes are required.

Transport will be provided for gear from Mona Vale to Warriewood.

After the swim the surf club will be hosting a BBQ with the bar open and band playing in the club house for all participants.

Volvo Ocean Race Leg 8

Unbelievable scenes in Newport for the finish of the Volvo Ocean Race Leg 8. Mapfre overtaking Team Brunel in the last few minutes of the race. Amazing after 5000nm of racing to finish within shouting distance of one another.

Congratulations to RPAYC club members Nina Curtis on Team Brunel and Stacey Jackson on Team Vestas finishing on the podium in 2nd and 3rd respectfully.

An update from Team Brunel: :)

From The Pages Of The Past: Warriewood Surf Club Architect In 1951

Warriewood will have a clubhouse as good as anything the United States can produce. Warriewood is a classy beach between Narrabeen and Mona Vale. Sydney architect Ken Spain has designed the clubhouse free of charge. It will consist of two decks, fitted with' massage rooms, showers, streamlined kitchen, dance floor, first aid room, offices, boat room, flat roof and shark tower. 

Warriewood club was formed this year by 20 residents, including engineers and carpenters. There are six bronze medallion holders in the .club, but more are needed. The district council is behind the move and has granted £500 to the club, which has also raised £300 by local activities.

GINTY LUSH GIVES (1951, April 1). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 22. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article230071344

Powerful Swell To Hit NSW Coastline

Friday May 11, 2018: From SLS NSW

Huge waves driven by gale-force winds are expected along much of the NSW coastline this weekend with the forecast conditions prompting surf lifesavers and the Bureau of Meteorology to issue a Hazardous Surf Warning.

Autumn has finally arrived with the warning set to be in place for at least the next 48 hours, though it could also potentially extend well into next week as the forecast models continue to be refined in the coming days.

Currently, the warning for Saturday covers the coastline from Eden through to Sydney with a southerly swell building throughout the day with peaks of between 2-4 metres.

On Sunday conditions are likely to be significantly stronger with the warning extending from the Far South Coast to at least Coffs Harbour.

Sets of between 5-8 metres are forecast for some areas with south facing and exposed beaches likely to bear the brunt of the conditions.

With waves and wind stronger offshore, boat users are being urged to be particularly mindful of the conditions throughout the weekend and exercise extreme caution if crossing river bars.

The cooler months are traditionally a great time for rock fishing but fishers are urged to wear the correct safety gear including a lifejacket, fish with a friend, take care when getting on and off rock platforms, and to never turn their back on the ocean.

NSW Lifesaving Manager Matt du Plessis is urging all water users to be aware that the warning is in place this weekend especially because volunteer patrols have now finished for the season.

“While the strong winds and large waves are likely to deter many people from entering the water this weekend, it is important that beachgoers are still mindful of the conditions.

“Although patrols have finished there are still surf lifesaving assets available to respond to coastal emergencies, but it can take time for our callout teams to get to you.

“In addition there are a number of beaches still patrolled by council lifeguards, and we urge beachgoers to familiarise themselves with those locations,” said Mr du Plessis.

“Please take note of the safety warnings and if you have any doubt whatsoever about your ability to handle the water it’s better not to go in,” he said.

General Safety Tips during Hazardous Surf Conditions:  

• Avoid rock fishing and water activities on exposed beaches/rock-shelves
• Only swim at patrolled beaches, between the red & yellow flags. See www.beachsafe.org.au for patrolled locations/times  
• Check the official Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) forecast before undertaking rock fishing and water activities  
  
• Boaties should seek advice from Marine Rescue NSW and always wear a lifejacket 
  
• If witnessing an in-water emergency dial Triple Zero – Police  
  

Useful Links:  

BeachSafe Website - https://beachsafe.org.au/  

Bureau of Meteorology - http://www.bom.gov.au/nsw/  

Applications Open For Community Building Partnership Program

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes is encouraging local community and sporting groups to apply for funds under the NSW Government’s 2018 Community Building Partnership Program.

 

As part of this year’s program $330,000 will be distributed to community-led infrastructure projects in Pittwater.

 

Almost 50 local projects have been supported by this program since 2011. This includes the expansion of the Northern Beaches Indoor Sports Centre at Warriewood, playground improvements at Narrabeen Community Kindergarten, walkway improvements on Scotland Island, Marine Rescue’s upgraded wharf at Cottage Point, Pittwater High School’s security fence upgrade, improvements to local surf clubs, construction of a walkway alongside Mona Vale Golf Club, Narrabeen Sports High School’s synthetic playing field, accessibility improvements at Currawong and the upcoming construction of a new community performance space at Barrenjoey High School. 

 

“This is a great opportunity to kick start community-led projects that will provide wide-reaching benefits,” Rob Stokes said today.

 

“There are dozens of local projects that have benefited from this program over recent years and I’m looking forward to this continuing.

 

“Many local groups undertake extensive fundraising - but simply need a bit more funding to enable their projects to proceed.

 

“Projects that will provide long-term infrastructure improvements and are supported by leveraged funds have been particularly successful in recent rounds.

 

“Applications for this year’s program are now open and will be accepted until 5pm on 15 June.

 

Further details on the program and information on how to apply is available by visiting www.communitybuildingpartnership.nsw.gov.au

Sydney Wildlife Rescue And Care Course May 2018

Start 19 May 2018 8:30 AM

End 20 May 2018 5:00 PM

Location North Parramatta

Registration

Family Discount (per person for TWO PEOPLE living at same address) – $65.00

This is PER PERSON for TWO people attending who live together and will share resources.

Note: Only ONE SET of materials will be provided.

BOTH PARTICIPANTS NEED TO REGISTER SEPARATELY ON THE WEBSITE so we have the name, address, contact details of BOTH participants separately.

Refresher – $5.00 For members who need to refresh after 3 years

Single Participant – $100.00

To join Sydney Wildlife, attend the next Sydney Wildlife Rescue and Care Course.

Note: this course is provided for new members who intend to rescue and/or care for animals at their own home. You must have some facilities and quiet space at home in order to do this.

Register here: www.sydneywildlife.org.au/upcoming-courses.html

We also seek new members who are not able to rescue and care, but can volunteer in the Office answering calls to the Rescue Line. Please email training@sydneywildlife.org.au, or phone 9413 4300 to enquire further.

R.P.A.Y.C.150 Year Historic Video

Auditor-General’s Report To Parliament: Grants To Non-Government Schools

May 3, 2018: Audit Office of New South Wales

The NSW Department of Education could strengthen its management of the $1.2 billion provided to non-government schools annually. This would provide greater accountability for the use of public funds, according to a report released today by the Auditor-General for New South Wales, Margaret Crawford.

The NSW Government provides funding to support the educational outcomes of 418,000 children in non-government schools. The bulk of these funds (85 per cent) are provided as a per-student grant.

The Department has adequate processes to allocate this funding, but needs to better clarify what its per-student grants are intended to achieve, and monitor more closely how schools are using these funds.

The Department does receive certifications from schools on enrolment data used to calculate funding. Schools also certify that funds are being used as intended.

'Clarifying funding conditions and strengthening processes to provide greater assurance that information reported by schools is accurate, will increase confidence that funds are being used as intended', said the Auditor-General.

The report makes four recommendations to the Department of Education and two recommendations to the NSW Education Standards Authority. These aim to improve transparency and accountability for the use of grants given to non-government schools.

Further information

A full copy of the report is on the Audit Office website.

Where Have All The Rangers Gone? 

(The Dingo's Breakfast + NSW voters)

Published May 7, 2018 by Wayne Richmond

Protest song by local group Loosely Woven 7 friends. 

Our indigenous park rangers have been cut by a third (from 150 to 100) as an economy measure. There have been broadscale cutbacks in NSW NPWS staff as well. We need these rangers and NWPS staff to care for and preserve these parks.

Vote For Scott Fardy

Our home-grown 'Newport' Wallaby - Scott Fardy is in the European Challenge Final on 12 May.

He is also up for "European Player of the Year".

Vote for him on this site..

ASG-MWP Commemorates National Sorry Day

Sorry Day this year will be at Mona Vale Memorial Hall as the Elanora Scout Hall at Narrabeen is undergoing repair.

National Sorry Day is an Australia-wide observance which gives people the chance to come together and share the steps towards healing for the Stolen Generations, their families and communities.

This is a Free event.

Sunday May 27th, 2018

Start time 2.00pm till 6.00pm

Welcome to Country – Smoking ceremony and a one minute

silence for the Stolen Generation.

A reading from Auntie Nancy Wood’s short book of poetry Nobody’s Child.

Gusset speaker talk about the Stolen Generation.

• All afternoon a free sausage BBQ and afternoon tea will be available.
  
• Singing by local Aboriginal Sisters.
  
• Free Kids painting – paint your own boomerang or do Colouring in and take it home with you.
  
• Basket weaving with Karleen Green.
  
• Aboriginal Dancers with the young children joining in dancing and playing the clap sticks, having fun.
  
• Two local Didge players.
  
• Aboriginal artefacts on display – things that have never been on display before.
  
• For the young ones, a gift bag from ASG.
  

Come and join us and share the steps towards healing for the Stolen Generations, their families and communities.

 

Click on logo above to visit their website.

Mermaids Of Palm Beach Commence B To B Bash 2018 Fundraising

The Mermaids will be holding their annual Currawong Day on Thursday May 21st with all the usual fun and games and Beryl’s famous sausage rolls – which were also a hit at this year’s garden party.

Guests at the recent Brees Cottage Garden Party were entertained by the Celtic By-The-Sea Music Group, and joined in some Celtic ring dancing, had a Maypole, a wonderful afternoon tea in glorious gardens, along with some fun with Lucky Dips. There were Books for sale, assorted Bric-a-Brac and garden cuttings – all to raise funds for Variety, The Children’s Charity.

The 2018 B to B Bash will be Beryl’s 20th Australian Variety Bash, which, at 85 years young, is not a bad effort – in fact it’s outstanding.

More HERE

Beryl and Beverly at Brees Garden Party - photo by Michael Mannington

Mona Vale SLSC Renewal Consultation Opens

The Mona Vale SLSC Renewal Feasibility Study and Business Casedocument formed part of the April 17 General Meeting of Council (p.74 of Agenda) and provides an update on the project.

The Renewal Feasibility Study and Business Case states the proposed new building will be twice the size of that now in place with the concept design having a total floor area of 1580 square metres.

The Quantity Surveyor Cost Plan is $6, 350, 000 (6.35 million) which includes design and constructions, authority fees, consultancy fees, and a construction cost escalation allowance for a potential  construction  commencement in 2019.

The Public exhibition has commenced for feedback and runs until June 8th. There are also two 'Drop-In' Sessions, nothing to do with surfing, at MVSLSC on May 12th and 19th, 9-11am. 

Webpage for the Mona Vale SLSC Renewal HERE

The document also contains some architectural plans and Artists' Concept diagrams:

View from carpark

View from beach

View of restaurant and cafe

Orange On-Trend For WOW Day To Thank SES Volunteers

Not a day goes by in Australia without the sight of an SES volunteer dressed in their orange uniform responding at the scene of an emergency or natural disaster.

It’s a hard colour to miss.

On Wednesday 23rd May, the colour orange will be on-trend across Australia, as people say thanks to SES volunteers nationally as part of Wear Orange Wednesday, or WOW Day.

WOW (Wear Orange Wednesday) Day is a day of recognition and appreciation of the 40,000 SES volunteers across the country. It focusses on encouraging the community to express their gratitude to SES volunteers in a highly visible way - by wearing the colour orange.

NSW SES volunteers spend around 400,000 hours helping their communities in times of storms, floods and other emergencies and Northern Beaches residents are being encouraged to wear orange to recognise this massive effort.

With the help of NRMA Insurance, the NSW SES will be celebrating WOW Day, encouraging schools, businesses, buildings and landmarks to go orange to support SES volunteers across

Australia.

NSW SES Local Controller, Wayne Lyne said WOW Day is an opportune time to show support for local volunteers.

“This is a day when the dedicated work our volunteers do for the community, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, is acknowledged in a very public way,” Mr Lyne said.

“Seeing people wearing orange and decorating their workplaces and communities is a great way to let our volunteers know they are appreciated for all the times they have been there for the community,” he said.

NRMA Insurance Partnerships and Programs Manager, Jen Cobley said NSW SES volunteers are invaluable in helping NSW communities in times of storms, floods and other emergencies.

“We are proud to partner with the NSW SES to support volunteers and empower local communities to build resilience and protect themselves from severe weather. WOW Day is a fantastic initiative to recognise SES volunteers and we encourage everyone to wear something orange to show their appreciation,” said Ms Cobley.

Last year NSW SES volunteers responded to over 32 000 requests for assistance. Not only did they assist people during storms and floods, but they also responded to road crashes, provided support to NSW Police on missing person searches and delivered remote and rural medical assistance through the NSW SES Community First Responder Units.

The NSW SES has over 9,000 volunteers across the state that come from all walks of life.

Volunteers range in age from 16 up to 90 and are involved in activities as diverse as flood rescue, large animal rescue, tarping roofs, clearing fallen trees, community education, operational logistics and planning, communications, and much more.

To find out how to become a NSW SES volunteer go towww.ses.nsw.gov.au/getinvolved/volunteer

It's A Menagerie!

The Hon. Rob Stokes's Speeches In Hansard

Newport Residents Association May Meeting

Songs For Soibada 2018

Dog Race Inspiration For Pittwater Artists Trail Winter Exhibition 2018

Update On The Ingleside Planned Precinct

Draft Delivery Program: Community Feedback Sought

Auditor-General’s Report To Parliament
Report On Local Government 2017

Throw In Your Line! Apply For Gone Fishing Day Grants

Entries Now Open For Northern Beaches Art Prize

Avalon Beach Historical Society May 2018 Meeting

Bilgola Beach Upgrade 2018 Consult

DoggieRescue.com

Pet of the Week

Bella

AGE/SEX: 11 years / F

BREED: Maltese X

Bella is a shy sweet girl. She is social with other dogs and likes people that are calm and gentle. She would do best in a quiet stable home. She has a non-shedding coat and weighs 5.3kg. She comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. Her adoption cost is $450.

Expressions Of Interest - Membership Of NSW Health Boards

Shoosh For Kids Awareness Week

Shoosh For Kids - Netball

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary 2018 Stalls

The Imminent Threat To Newport And Avalon…

Woke is the fictional account of one man's existential journey through an extraordinary time in history. Woke is John's debut novel.

After fleeing Australia to avoid the draft, Will Oakley somehow finds himself working as a photojournalist on Vietnam's battlefields, before being wounded and repatriated to America for treatment. He arrives in San Francisco during the Summer of Love, and soon begins work on a music magazine, during a seminal period in popular music. Abandoning America as dark forces converge, he begins an incredible journey back to his homeland and redemption.

An extract and where to purchase available this month.

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 1/5/2018 

click on Logo: 

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Bon Voyage Captain Chad 

Community Forum Calls For Immediate Pittwater Demerger: Rally To Be Held At Parliament House

A shortfall of $55 million in savings anticipated from the creation of Northern Beaches Council should spur Pittwater residents on to reclaim their own council, a community forum was told on Thursday night. 

 

The forum, at Pittwater RSL club in Mona Vale, was hosted by the Protect Pittwater Association, to bring residents up to date on the impact of the 2016 council merger of Pittwater, Warringah and Manly Council - as well as efforts to restore Pittwater. 

 

Two courses of action were discussed at the meeting for achieving a demerger.

 

Protect Pittwater president Bob Grace encouraged residents to join members of the group on a trip to Parliament House on May 15 to present a de-amalgamation proposal.

 

The proposal with thousands of signatures, set up under the Local Government Act, called on the government to reconstitute Pittwater Council within its pre-amalgamation boundaries, Mr Grace said.

 

“On the 15th of May, we are taking it into Macquarie Street, Parliament House, to give to the Minister for Local Government (Gabrielle Upton),” he said.

 

“What’s important is that we get everyone who’s here and other people to come.

“We will show what Pittwater is going to do to retain its identity if we get a huge crowd there.”

 

Protect Pittwater plans to hire a bus which will depart Newport Beach car park at 10.45am on May 15, arriving at Parliament House for the rally between 1pm and 2pm.

 

The crowd also unanimously passed a resolution, to be sent to NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian, that reads: 

“This meeting condemns the forced amalgamation of the viable and successful Pittwater Council and demands an immediate and binding referendum of the former Pittwater Local Government Area on its demerger”.

 

Politicians at the meeting, NSW Labor’s Local Government spokesman Peter Primrose and his Greens’ counterpart David Shoebridge shook hands and signed statements at the forum agreeing to support a plebiscite within the former Pittwater council area for a demerger.

 

Mr Primrose said that if Labor won government at the next state election, it would run binding plebiscites in the former local government area. 

Note from Protect Pittwater:

Please email Miranda Korzy by May 9th (if possible) to guarantee a seat on the bus and a Pittwater T-shirt to wear to the rally. If any residents have proposal (petition) sheets with signatures or would like to help collect more in the lead up to May 15, could they also please get in touch.

Congratulations Ken Hughes

Well done to Ken Hughes on being awarded an OAM. 

Message from

His Excellency General The Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Ret’d)

Governor of New South Wales

This week, it will be my honour to invest the New South Welsh men and women whose awards were announced in the Australia Day Honours List. Seven ceremonies will be conducted at Government House Sydney from Tuesday to Friday.

For the first time the ceremonies will be livestreamed on our website allowing people unable to attend to be a part of this special moment for their friend, colleague or family member. 

Acces Livestream here

Ken with his wife Pat, His Excellency General The Honourable David Hurley, daughters Jenny and Natasha. 

Read about Ken's Australia Day 2018 award here

Photo courtesy Cr. Kylie Ferguson.

Notice Of The 100th AGM Of The Palm Beach & Whale Beach Association 

TUESDAY 8TH MAY 2018 AT 7.00 PM

A CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION AT CLUB PALM BEACH (RSL)

AGENDA

Welcome by the President: Dr. Richard West AM

Apologies

Confirmation of the minutes of the 2017 AGM

The 2017 Minutes were approved at the June 2017 Meeting by the Committee

Business arising from the 2017 Minutes

Treasurer’s report: Doug Maher presenting the Annual Statement to the Department of Community Affairs by the Public Officer, for signature.

President’s Report: Dr Richard West AM

Election of Office Bearers:

Motions of thanks: Dr. Richard West AM

Guest Presenter: The Hon. Rob Stokes, MP – Parliament of NSW

General business:

Closure of the meeting

Following the meeting, members are invited to Centenary Celebration drinks and a light supper.

Congratulations Doug Menzies

May 2nd, 2018: Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches

Doug Menzies will serve a fifth season as president of Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches Branch after he was given the thumbs up by club presidents.

Mr Menzies was challenged by Michael Bate and Tony Hilliger at the Branch AGM last night (Tuesday) but he received a majority vote from the 21 clubs.

One the challenge for the leadership, he said: 

"It's healthy that people want to put their hand up to serve. I am just grateful that the presidents gave me a vote of confidence to continue to serve and progress this Branch.''

He said he had unfinished business.

''I am really happy with where we have been the past four years,'' he said.

''But we've got some new challenges, some new issues, and particularly implementing our new strategic plan, which will be a great benefit to give us a little bit more of a road map of where we need to be and some high level stuff for giving some stretch targets to see us progress our activities '' he said.

''We are very strong. We had a very good financial outcome despite some challenges that we were confronted with in the middle of the year. We have a great team. The executive is a fabulous team to work with and all our clubs are strong.'' 

''One of the things we have identified is that we can't rely on sponsorship. We need to find a way that we can be more self sufficient without relying wholly on sponsorship. That's one of the things we need to get our head around over the next few years.''

Picture: Doug Menzies ... marches on.

Well Done Mike Kitching

Mike's work 1966 “ Phoenix 11 “ is on currently on Exhibition at The National Gallery of Victoria's “THE FIELD REVISITED” 

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS. 

Originally in 1968 BHP Billiton purchased the work and gifted the sculpture to Mildura Regional Gallery.

Regarded as a landmark exhibition in Australian art history, The Field was the National Gallery of Victoria’s inaugural exhibition at its new premises on St Kilda Road in 1968. With its silver foil-covered walls and geometric light fittings, this boundary-pushing exhibition was the first comprehensive display of colour field painting and abstract sculpture in Australia and opened to much controversy at the time.

Installation view of The Field, 1968

To commemorate the 50th anniversary in 2018, The Field Revisitedrecreates this exhibition for contemporary audiences at NGV Australia at Federation Square. Reassembling as many of the 74 original artworks as possible, this exhibition has been co-curated by Tony Ellwood, Director, NGV and Beckett Rozentals, Curator, Australian Painting, Sculpture and Decorative Arts to 1980.

The Field boldly launched the careers of a generation of young Australian artists, including Sydney Ball, Peter Booth, Janet Dawson and Robert Jacks, many of which were influenced by American stylistic tendencies of the time. Eighteen of the exhibiting artists were under the age of thirty, with Robert Hunter the youngest at twenty-one years of age.

As a number of works from the original 1968 exhibition are known to have been destroyed, and the fate of six paintings and six sculptures still remain unknown, the NGV commissioned a number of artists, including Garrey Foulkes, Col Jordan, Emanuel Raft, Trevor Vickers and Normana Wight, to recreate their original works for The Field Revisited.

"The Field is a totally amazing exhibition. It features the Leading young artists that completely rocked Melbourne’s Establishment and knocked their socks off and put Australia on the International Map."

The Field Revisited is on display from 27 April – 26 August 2018 at Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia at Federation Square. Entry is FREE. Further information is available from the NGV website

Visit if heading south!

Narrabeen B-Line Commuter Works Complete

May 3, 2018

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes today said improvements to the Narrabeen commuter precinct have resulted in a major transformation of the area.

 

Works throughout the precinct, adjacent to Berry Reserve, included the construction of new amenities, landscaping, new pedestrian plaza, installation of CCTV, undercover bicycle storage, extra lighting, new basketball area and a redesigned car park with around 40 additional spaces.

 

The new commuter precinct was funded as part of the NSW Government’s B-Line project.

 

“There’s been an incredible transformation of this area,” Rob Stokes said today.

 

“To be frank, the area was ugly and unpleasant.

 

“The old amenities block was a blight on the whole area.

 

“The introduction of new facilities and extensive landscaping has revitalised the area and transformed it into a modern and more user-friendly space.

 

“An injection of funds and some clever design and landscaping was exactly what this area needed.

 

“Commuters, shoppers, tourists and neighbours will all benefit from this great example of place-based planning that embraces the lagoon, enhances our environment and respects Narrabeen’s heritage,” Rob Stokes said.

Newport Residents Association May Meeting

The next meeting of the Newport Residents Association will be held on Tuesday 15th May 2018 at the Newport Community Centre, The Boulevard Newport at 7 pm.

All community members are encouraged and are most welcome to attend.

The Newport Residents Association Incorporated is an organisation of residents and/or ratepayers of the original Pittwater Council area whose concerns are the welfare and advancement of that area, in general and Newport in particular.

Find out more at: newport.org.au

Scotland Island And Mackeral Beach RFB's Training Day

Scotland Island Rural Fire Brigade members did Boat training last Sunday (April 29) with members from Mackeral Beach Brigade.

"There's never a quiet time. During fire season we are fighting fires. When its not fire season there is hazard reduction and training to be done!"

ASG-MWP Commemorates National Sorry Day

Sorry Day this year will be at Mona Vale Memorial Hall as the Elanora Scout Hall at Narrabeen is undergoing repair.

National Sorry Day is an Australia-wide observance which gives people the chance to come together and share the steps towards healing for the Stolen Generations, their families and communities.

This is a Free event.

Sunday May 27th, 2018

Start time 2.00pm till 6.00pm

Welcome to Country – Smoking ceremony and a one minute

silence for the Stolen Generation.

A reading from Auntie Nancy Wood’s short book of poetry Nobody’s Child.

Gusset speaker talk about the Stolen Generation.

• All afternoon a free sausage BBQ and afternoon tea will be available.
  
• Singing by local Aboriginal Sisters.
  
• Free Kids painting – paint your own boomerang or do Colouring in and take it home with you.
  
• Basket weaving with Karleen Green.
  
• Aboriginal Dancers with the young children joining in dancing and playing the clap sticks, having fun.
  
• Two local Didge players.
  
• Aboriginal artefacts on display – things that have never been on display before.
  
• For the young ones, a gift bag from ASG.
  

Come and join us and share the steps towards healing for the Stolen Generations, their families and communities.

 

Click on logo above to visit their website.

Mermaids Of Palm Beach Commence B To B Bash 2018 Fundraising

The Mermaids will be holding their annual Currawong Day on Thursday May 21st with all the usual fun and games and Beryl’s famous sausage rolls – which were also a hit at this year’s garden party.

Guests at the recent Brees Cottage Garden Party were entertained by the Celtic By-The-Sea Music Group, and joined in some Celtic ring dancing, had a Maypole, a wonderful afternoon tea in glorious gardens, along with some fun with Lucky Dips. There were Books for sale, assorted Bric-a-Brac and garden cuttings – all to raise funds for Variety, The Children’s Charity.

The 2018 B to B Bash will be Beryl’s 20th Australian Variety Bash, which, at 85 years young, is not a bad effort – in fact it’s outstanding.

More HERE

Beryl and Beverly at Brees Garden Party - photo by Michael Mannington

Songs For Soibada 2018

Hosted by Pittwater Friends Of Soibada

Saturday, May 19 at 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM

at Barrenjoey High school

Tickets; $25 Student, $45 Adult

It will be on again this year - our biggest fundraising event Songs for Soibada! Watch this space to find out more. 

Who will be the performers? - We always have outstanding and well known acts!

What will be the raffle prizes? - Even bigger and better than ever before!

Where will the money go? - All funds raised will go towards the Senior High School Project in Soibada!

Orange On-Trend For WOW Day To Thank SES Volunteers

Not a day goes by in Australia without the sight of an SES volunteer dressed in their orange uniform responding at the scene of an emergency or natural disaster.

It’s a hard colour to miss.

On Wednesday 23rd May, the colour orange will be on-trend across Australia, as people say thanks to SES volunteers nationally as part of Wear Orange Wednesday, or WOW Day.

WOW (Wear Orange Wednesday) Day is a day of recognition and appreciation of the 40,000 SES volunteers across the country. It focusses on encouraging the community to express their gratitude to SES volunteers in a highly visible way - by wearing the colour orange.

NSW SES volunteers spend around 400,000 hours helping their communities in times of storms, floods and other emergencies and Northern Beaches residents are being encouraged to wear orange to recognise this massive effort.

With the help of NRMA Insurance, the NSW SES will be celebrating WOW Day, encouraging schools, businesses, buildings and landmarks to go orange to support SES volunteers across

Australia.

NSW SES Local Controller, Wayne Lyne said WOW Day is an opportune time to show support for local volunteers.

“This is a day when the dedicated work our volunteers do for the community, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, is acknowledged in a very public way,” Mr Lyne said.

“Seeing people wearing orange and decorating their workplaces and communities is a great way to let our volunteers know they are appreciated for all the times they have been there for the community,” he said.

NRMA Insurance Partnerships and Programs Manager, Jen Cobley said NSW SES volunteers are invaluable in helping NSW communities in times of storms, floods and other emergencies.

“We are proud to partner with the NSW SES to support volunteers and empower local communities to build resilience and protect themselves from severe weather. WOW Day is a fantastic initiative to recognise SES volunteers and we encourage everyone to wear something orange to show their appreciation,” said Ms Cobley.

Last year NSW SES volunteers responded to over 32 000 requests for assistance. Not only did they assist people during storms and floods, but they also responded to road crashes, provided support to NSW Police on missing person searches and delivered remote and rural medical assistance through the NSW SES Community First Responder Units.

The NSW SES has over 9,000 volunteers across the state that come from all walks of life.

Volunteers range in age from 16 up to 90 and are involved in activities as diverse as flood rescue, large animal rescue, tarping roofs, clearing fallen trees, community education, operational logistics and planning, communications, and much more.

To find out how to become a NSW SES volunteer go towww.ses.nsw.gov.au/getinvolved/volunteer

Mental Health Education For Community Groups

Would your group or organisation benefit from exploring how to respond to the specific mental health needs of people in your community? Wellways are looking for groups interested in hosting a Well Together workshop.

Workshops are suitable for 10-20 participants. We come to you, there is no cost involved and days and times are flexible.

Workshops are run by a qualified trainer and include a presentation from someone with their own lived experience of mental health challenges and recovery.

If you are interested in building a more supportive and inclusive community, take advantage of this free initiative.

Well Together is funded by the National Disability Insurance Agency and delivered by Wellways Australia.

Interested? Please leave your details in the form HERE

About Wellways Australia

Wellways Australia is a leading not-for-profit organisation dedicated to ensuring all Australians lead active and fulfilling lives in their community. We work with individuals, families and the community to help them imagine and achieve better lives.

We advocate for change to make sure people can access the best possible care and information when they need it. We provide a wide range of services and assistance for people with mental health issues, disabilities, youth and older Australians and those requiring community care.

Community Health organisation Wellways has received a federal grant to deliver FREE mental health workshops across eastern Australia. 

Update: Remembrance Day Poppy Wall For Avalon Beach RSL 

If you liked the display in Avalon Beach RSL foyer this week of ANZAC comprised from crocheted and knitted poppies you may wish to get involved with the group that is knitting more of these for a larger display for Remembrance Day 2018.

It is hoped enough are made to fill the garden and cover the garden fence of the RSL.

An anonymous donor has committed to providing the wool and another 150 balls have arrived on Thursday - all you need to do is join in!

Already 12 ladies are busy knitting and crocheting away. You can help by dropping made flowers into the Avalon Beach RSL Club or join the group in the club on Mondays at midday. Just look for Dannie Sloper.

Find out more at HERE

Gonski Review To Achieve Educational Excellence In Australian Schools Report Released

April 30, 2018

PRIME MINISTER OF AUSTRALIA

The Hon Malcolm Turnbull MP

The Federal Government has released a landmark report on Australia’s schooling system and accepted its recommendations in principle.

The Government commissioned Mr David Gonski AC to undertake the Review to Achieve Educational Excellence in Australian Schools alongside a panel of seven eminent education and policy experts to determine how Australia can improve student achievement and school performance.

The Review finds that Australia’s education system needs to reform for the future.

While many other countries have been changing their education systems to keep pace with the challenges they face, the performance of Australia’s schools has stagnated and declined, both in comparison to other nations and in real terms. For example, between 2000 and 2015, the OECD’s Programme for International Student Assessment shows Australia dropped from 4th in the world for literacy to 16th, 7th in mathematics to 25th and 4th in science to 14th.

The Government has implemented the needs-based schools funding model Mr Gonski recommended in 2011, however, we have said all along that establishing fair funding arrangements alone do not produce better results. In fact, Australia already invests more per student than other countries that outperform us.

We need to get better outcomes for the record and growing funding we are investing.

The Review makes it clear Australia’s education system should make fundamental changes that would improve the prospects for every student across every school:

“Australian students should receive a world-class education, tailored to their individual learning needs, and relevant to a fast-changing world. They should be challenged and supported to progress and excel in their learning every year of school, appropriate to their starting point and capabilities.”

Australia must focus on creating an education system that gives each student the opportunity to excel and to be their individual best.

The Review identifies 23 recommendations under five themes:

• Laying the foundations of learning before the school years and in the home environment
  
• Equipping every student to grow and succeed with the knowledge they need and a focus on growing each individuals’ skills
  
• Creating, supporting and valuing a profession of expert educators including building on the Government’s reforms to date in teacher education
  
• Empowering and supporting school leaders with experience and autonomy
  
• Lifting aspirations with quality assurance, data and evidence-based research
  

The Review’s findings and recommendations are informed by extensive consultation with education, policy and business leaders as well as 279 submissions.

The recommendations outline a blueprint for everyone involved in school education, charting clear opportunities for federal leadership while respecting state and territory autonomy. Together, we can ensure Australia’s education system is a world leader for generations to come.

The Government thanks Mr Gonski and the Review panel for their diligent work.

Mr Gonski will brief state and territory education ministers at a special meeting of the COAG Education Council this Friday.

The Government will work with states and territories and non-government school systems to determine how the reforms set out in the Review should be delivered. A new reform agreement between the Commonwealth and jurisdictions will be negotiated this year to come into effect from 2019.

This Review is an opportunity for all levels of government, educators and families to turn around Australia’s performance and build a stronger school system. This is an opportunity we all must grasp to ensure this and future generations of students get the opportunities they need to succeed.

Through growth to achievement; Report of the Review to Achieve Educational Excellence in Australian Schools is available at www.education.gov.au/review-achieve-educational-excellence-australian-schools.

Woolworths To End Single Use Plastic Bags From June 20th, 2018

Woolworths: We've set the date for the end of single-use plastic bags.

The removal of single-use plastic bags has been a really important topic for our customers and our team. Which is why, Woolworths committed to phase out all single-use plastic bags at our checkouts nationally.

After listening to our customers and working with our teams, we're proud to announce that from the 20th of June 2018 all Woolworths stores will be single-use plastic bag free. We are committed to playing our part in reducing plastic usage and believe that this is the right thing to do for our environment.

This means that we, from the 20th of June, will no longer provide ‘free’ plastic bags at our checkouts in store. We've always encouraged the use of reusable bags and with this change it's now more important than ever for customers to bring in their own bags from home or pick up one of our reusable bags in store.

The Woolworths team continues to work hard to reduce our impact on the environment by supporting the reduction and recycling of plastics throughout our stores. Other initiatives include reducing the amount of plastic packaging on fruits and vegetables; introducing the new Australasian Recycling Label to help educate our customers on what can be recycled and where, as well as the expansion of our soft plastic recycling program.

Notice at Woolworths checkouts, Avalon Beach - picture by A J Guesdon, May 2018

New Laws Strengthen Road Safety

May 4th, 2018: NSW Government

Cameras to detect drivers using their mobile phones illegally, tougher penalties for driving under the influence of drugs and roadside testing for cocaine will be introduced from 1 July 2018.

Drivers who consume cocaine or use their mobile phones illegally will be targeted as part of the NSW Government’s road safety reforms which have passed NSW Parliament.

In 2017, 74 people lost their lives in crashes where a driver or rider had an illicit drug present in their system. 

There were 184 crashes involved illegal mobile phone use between 2012 and 2017, which resulted in 7 deaths and 105 injuries.

The Road Transport Legislation Amendment (Road Safety) Bill 2018strengthens road safety by:

• introducing tougher penalties for drivers under the influence of drugs
  
• adding cocaine to mobile drug testing
  
• introducing speed-camera-style technology to detect illegal mobile phone us
  
• requiring fines from camera detected mobile phone offences to be paid to the Community Road Safety Fund, which allows community organisations to develop road safety projects in their local areas
  
• ensuring oral drug testing measures that apply to motoristsalso apply to marine drivers and vessel operators.
  

Minister for Roads, Maritime and Freight Melinda Pavey said that the reforms would help to achieve the NSW Government’s road safety goals as part of the Road Safety Plan 2021(external link). 

“NSW is the first jurisdiction in Australia to introduce legislation like the Road Safety Bill, showing this Government’s ongoing commitment to road safety as technology and societal trends change,” Mrs Pavey said.

“Driving under the influence of drugs has emerged as a significant factor in our road toll, along with alcohol, speeding, fatigue and mobile phone distraction.”

Read the road rules about mobile phone use

Learn what offences and penalties apply for driving while affected by drugs

Applications For The 2018 Minister’s & Secretary’s Awards For Excellence Now Open

March 28: NSW Dept. of Education and Public Education Foundation 

The NSW Minister's and Secretary's Awards for Excellence recognise outstanding public school students, our most committed and skilled teachers, and our most dedicated employees and parents.

The awards also acknowledge the extraordinary initiatives taking place every day in schools right across the state.

Together with the NSW Department of Education, the Foundation manages awards that acknowledge excellence in NSW schools across a range of categories:

Minister’s Award for Excellence in Student Achievement

Minister’s Award for Excellence in Teaching

Secretary’s Award for Excellent Service

Secretary’s Award for an Outstanding School Initiative

Secretary’s School Achievement Award

Public School Parent of the Year Award

Applications for the 2018 Minister’s and Secretary’s Awards for Excellence close on 19 June 2018.  All applications are online. For your reference, we have included sample applications below. An Awards Ceremony will be held in September 2018.  Please email us for more information about these awards.

Further information and application details are on the Public Education Foundation website

Draft Code Of Practice For Flying-Foxes

The Office of Environment and Heritage is seeking feedback on the Draft Code of Practice Authorising Flying-fox Camp Management Actions.

What's this about?

Flying-foxes are protected in NSW by the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016.

Managers of public land, including local councils, work with communities to manage flying-fox camps that are affecting people’s enjoyment of the land.

Currently, public land managers need a biodiversity conservation licence to act in or near flying-fox camps to reduce the impact of camps on nearby communities.

The Office of Environment has prepared a draft code of practice. It defines the standards required for the effective and humane management of flying-fox camps.

If actions required by councils and other public land managers to manage a flying-fox camp are consistent with the code, then a licence will not be required.

Have your say

There are three ways you can submit your feedback:

Online: consultation website

Email: Flying.Fox@environment.nsw.gov.au

Mail: Flying-fox Code of Practice Review

PO Box A290

Sydney South NSW 1232

Have your say by 24 May 2018.

Anna's Walk

It is with great pride and emotion that MVSLSC member Adam Lynch invites you to be part of Anna’s Walk.

Adam's beautiful wife, Anna, lost her battle with bladder cancer last year. On Sunday 27th May we are walking in memory of Anna, and to support her passionate wish to help stop this tragic story happening to other families.

Please take a look at annaswalk.org.au to find out all about it, and to register and donate! 

Ingleside - Key Actions And Documents

The next steps in the planning process for Ingleside are as follows:

• All of the submissions and feedback have been reviewed. Feedback from landowners, Northern Beaches Council, the Ingleside Community Reference Group, state agencies and the community will inform the development of the final Land Use and Infrastructure Implementation Plan.
  
• A decision will be made regarding the proposed amendment to the State Environmental Planning Policy (Sydney Region Growth Centres) 2006 to make Ingleside a Priority Growth Area. An amendment to the policy will help to assist Northern Beaches Council when assessing development applications prior to rezoning. This will ensure that the intended planning outcomes for Ingleside are considered during the assessment of new buildings or projects.
  
• The final Land Use and Infrastructure Implementation Plan will be released early in 2018, which forms the basis of the formal planning controls and contributions schemes. The Plan will include new material on energy and water conservation measures as well as affordable housing.
  
• The formal planning controls and contributions schemes will also be placed on exhibition for comment at that time, including:
  

1. Proposed changes to land use zones and associated controls for Ingleside;
   
2. An application for Biodiversity Certification (this is required to be exhibited at the same time as the rezoning proposal). Biodiversity Certification enables areas of high conservation value to be identified upfront and means that landowners, Council and developers don't need to undertake a threatened species assessment during the Development Application stage;
   
3. A Development Control Plan, addressing urban design controls for streetscapes, active travel, other public spaces and controls regarding the built form;
   
4. A Special Infrastructure Contributions determination (section 94EE), funding biodiversity offsets, major infrastructure and potentially affordable housing;
   
5. A Local Infrastructure Contributions Plan (Section 94), funding local infrastructure which will be maintained by Northern Beaches Council.
   

Ingleside Draft Strategy and draft technical studies

Planning Alerts

Planning applications: Pittwater

Find out what's happening in your area. Get alerts of new applications near here straight in your email. It's free!

Petition: Save Ingleside From Over-Development

PROPOSED INGLESIDE DEVELOPMENT

We the undersigned, write in connection with the above proposal and wish to object strongly and respectfully to the development of the area in the proposed manner.

Ingleside is a dispersed settlement where development proposals should be considered very carefully: infilling could ruin the character of the area but estate development will not only overwhelm it but also overwhelm the vast majority of residents living from Narrabeen to Palm Beach who will travel through or near Ingleside every day.

Naturally, we understand that the State Government has a determined growth strategy. However, the overwhelming increase in immediate population and thoroughfare traffic will have a devastating effect upon the existing population who live here and contribute to Sydney as a city and as a defined demographic already. 

Pressure for the development in the region is considerable, mainly for housing city commuters, but has been successfully resisted for more than 30 years for the same reasons as now. The infrastructure was not in place and as can be seen by the impact of development in Warriewood, remains at an unsupportive level. The reasons for rejecting those schemes also included the inadequacy of the minor roads apart from Mona Vale Road to accommodate even small increases in traffic. 

Reference is made to the over one thousand comments on the supporting website, mostly by residents of Pittwater external to the immediate area of Ingleside who have failed to have a voice but as your constituents have equal right to be represented as bearing the impact of the development. With the above in mind, we request that the development be reviewed to take into account the residents of Pittwater, whom you represent. Rather than telling them why it will be good for them, consider the voice of the residents and understand why it will be bad for them. 

Sign Petition here

New Season for Sailability Pittwater 

Sailability Pittwater is a volunteer organisation which provides sailing for people with a disability. Our main recreational sailing activities are at Rowland Reserve, Bayview, and we run competitive sailing for people with a disability out of RPAYC Newport. We are currently looking for new volunteers for our Saturday morning program at Rowland Reserve and Tuesdays at RPA. For more information at  www.sailability.org/au/pittwater or call John on 9982 5656

Red Cross Shop Newport

The Newport Red Cross shop desperately needs your quality, discarded clothing items. Now that spring is almost springing, perhaps you are all set to 'declutter' your offshore abode. But what to do with all those gems that are no longer you. Well donate them of course. The Red Cross shop at Newport is very excited to receive your cast offs. We also take small household items but alas, no electrical or furniture. 

Did you know that all profits from Red Cross shops stay in Australia? Profits from Red Cross shops support worthy programmes like providing breakfast for school kids, Telecross - a daily call to elderly people in need of contact, youth services, disaster relief, mental health services and much, much more.

Should you need assistance please feel free to call me or just leave your items in our boat. We live on the northern side of Lovett Bay between Now and Zen and Therese and John. The house is called 'Foreshore' and our boat is a Stabicraft for purposes of identification! 

Don't hesitate to call in to the Newport Red Cross shop with your donations - close to Woolworths petrol station at 334 Barrenjoey Rd Newport or call Lesley Scott to help with donations - 0410 687864

Facebook page 

Vote For Scott Fardy

He is also up for "European Player of the Year".

Vote for him on this site..

Congratulations Sonja Elwood

A huge congratulations to these amazing Women in STEM photograph winners! 

Each of these photographs will feature in a 2018-2019 financial year calendar & 1st Prize winner Rachel Miller will also feature on a stubby cooler - all available by donating at

pozible.com/project/homeward-bound-leadership-for-deb-1

All winners will receive a copy of the calendar and thank you to everyone who supported this venture. With 14235 views I think we got that word out that Women in STEM are Badass and we have some excellent role models out there for all.

#oglethis — with Sonja Elwood, Rachel Miller, Amalina Katinka, Jessica Agius and Heather Neilly.

Deborah Bower,

Vale Leigh Campbell

Entries Now Open For Northern Beaches Art Prize

Kalori Query

Avalon Beach Historical Society May 2018 Meeting

Mona Vale SLSC Renewal Consultation Opens

Funding Boost For Pittwater’s Sporting Clubs

Bilgola Beach Upgrade 2018 Consult

Draft Delivery Program: Community Feedback Sought

DoggieRescue.com

Pet of the Week

Pearl

AGE/SEX: 9 months / F

BREED: Staffy X

Pearl is a very active girl who still needs a lot of training on lead but she certainly likes to jog. Out walking she walks at a good pace and enjoys being patted by volunteers. She would suit a family with older children as she is a bit mouthy and jumpy when excited. She is very energetic out on walks and chases cars and lunges at other dogs. Pulls on lead. Lunges at cars, and lunges at dogs playfully. Walks at a good pace and likes to jog. She enjoys being patted, enjoys cuddles, belly rubs and jumps up to lick your face. She sits on command. Walkers say: “Such a lovebug! Sweetest girl that improved on walking without pulling in just one walk. Eager to please and great with training” She has a short coat and weighs about 12kg. She comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. Her adoption cost is $450. 

Expressions Of Interest - Membership Of NSW Health Boards

Shoosh For Kids Awareness Week

Shoosh For Kids - Netball

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary 2018 Stalls

The Imminent Threat To Newport And Avalon…

Unleashed Dog Exercise Areas Review

Course For A Cause At Avalon

Woke is the fictional account of one man's existential journey through an extraordinary time in history. Woke is John's debut novel.

After fleeing Australia to avoid the draft, Will Oakley somehow finds himself working as a photojournalist on Vietnam's battlefields, before being wounded and repatriated to America for treatment. He arrives in San Francisco during the Summer of Love, and soon begins work on a music magazine, during a seminal period in popular music. Abandoning America as dark forces converge, he begins an incredible journey back to his homeland and redemption. An extract and where to purchase available this month.

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 1/5/2018 

click on Logo: 

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Congratulations Alyse And Melissa!

Congratulations Arch Whiteman, Gabi Spake And Ruby Trew!

Kalori Query

Protect Pittwater Association Community Forum

The Protect Pittwater Association will host a community forum next week titled: Where Are We Now.

 

Details are as follows:

 

Thursday May 3

7pm- 9pm

Pittwater RSL

82 Mona Vale Road, Mona Vale

 

Speakers at the forum will include:

Bob Grace – former Pittwater councillor

Brian Halstead - President Save Our Councils Coalition

Phil Jenkyn - Save Our Councils

Peter Primrose - Labor Local Government spokesperson

David Shoebridge - Greens Local Government spokesperson

 

Speakers will outline some of the financial and other problems that are coming to light with the amalgamation - and there will be plenty of opportunity to ask questions and for discussion.

 

We will also be discussing arrangements for presentation of our Proposal under the Local Government Act to reinstate Pittwater Council with its former boundaries – which we plan to present to the NSW Government on May 15.

 

We’ll discuss the arrangements for the presentation – including a bus to Parliament House - at the community forum.

 

We hope you’ll come along on May 3 and join us on the bus to Parliament House on the May 15.

 

Bob Grace President

Miranda Korzy Secretary

Protect Pittwater Association

Mermaids Of Palm Beach Commence B To B Bash 2018 Fundraising

A Garden Party held at Brees Cottage on April 21st, hosted by longterm Mermaids supporter Beverly Wilson,  raised close to $2500.00 and set Beryl Driver, Elyse Cole and Viktorija Macdonell on the road to take part in the 2018 Variety, The Children’s Charity, B to B Bash.

The Mermaids will be holding their annual Currawong Day on Thursday May 21st with all the usual fun and games and Beryl’s famous sausage rolls – which were also a hit at this year’s garden party.

Guests at the Garden Party were entertained by the Celtic By-The-Sea Music Group, and joined in some Celtic ring dancing, had a Maypole, a wonderful afternoon tea in glorious gardens, along with some fun with Lucky Dips. There were Books for sale, assorted Bric-a-Brac and garden cuttings – all to raise funds for Variety, The Children’s Charity.

The 2018 B to B Bash will be Beryl’s 20th Australian Variety Bash, which, at 85 years young, is not a bad effort – in fact it’s outstanding.

More HERE

Beryl and Beverly at Brees Garden Party - photo by Michael Mannington

Congratulations Living Ocean Lifeline Classic Team!

Congratulations to the Living Ocean surf team for their effort and passion competing in the 2018 Lifeline Northern Beaches Classic surf event. Super strong finish to nearly overcome a large handicap for the heat draw.

Congratulations to Manly Surf School for winning the men’s final, Joyce Magazine for winning the women’s final and Aqua Therapy for taking a big win in the Fundraising. 

A brilliant result with teams collectively raising almost $54,000 for Lifeline!

Lifeline Northern Beaches provides crisis support and suicide prevention services. Every year Lifeline answers over 750,000 calls for assistance on our 13 11 14 line - 25,000 of those are taken at the Northern Beaches Centre. Lifeline provide a range of services including face-to-face counselling and group support programs all aimed at relieving distress and suffering in the community.

Special thanks to the Whiteman, Partington and Roberts clans for the support and to NASA - North Avalon Surfriders Association for their ongoing support of the Living Ocean surf team.

LO team crew: Sam Partington, Van & Arch Whiteman, Hunter Roberts, Photo courtesy LO

Peter Loft Marathon 2018

BYRA's annual Peter Loft Marathon Race takes place on Sunday 6th May 2018. This is a great event and sailors from all clubs are welcome. All race fees benefit the Peter Loft Foundation. Entry costs $10 for Juniors (aged under 18) and $15 for Seniors (18 and over).

THE PETER LOFT FOUNDATION

Peter Loft, a talented young sailor and member of BYRA was tragically killed in a plane accident in 1990. He appears on BYRA's honour board multiple times. In the 1986-87 season, Peter was the Manly Junior National Champion. The following season Peter switched to the 420 and proceeded to become the 420 National Champion that year and the next.

In Peter's honour, the Peter Loft Foundation was set up to help young sailors compete in national and international sailing regattas. Since the 1990s the marathon race has become an institution on Pittwater, and thousands of dollars have been passed on to the foundation.

One of the most popular aspects of the race is the Le Mans start. Competitors line up on the beach beside the clubhouse and, on the dropping of the BYRA flag, sprint to their boats to begin. Clearly this gives the less-old sailors an advantage, but history shows that experience soon wins out.

After the race, please join us for prize-giving and a barbeque dinner on the BYRA deck. Refreshments will also be available.

Notice of Race and full details are available here.

Notice Of The 100th AGM Of The Palm Beach & Whale Beach Association 

TUESDAY 8TH MAY 2018 AT 7.00 PM

A CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION AT CLUB PALM BEACH (RSL)

AGENDA

Welcome by the President: Dr. Richard West AM

Apologies

Confirmation of the minutes of the 2017 AGM

The 2017 Minutes were approved at the June 2017 Meeting by the Committee

Business arising from the 2017 Minutes

Treasurer’s report: Doug Maher presenting the Annual Statement to the Department of Community Affairs by the Public Officer, for signature.

President’s Report: Dr Richard West AM

Election of Office Bearers:

Motions of thanks: Dr. Richard West AM

Guest Presenter: The Hon. Rob Stokes, MP – Parliament of NSW

General business:

Closure of the meeting

Following the meeting, members are invited to Centenary Celebration drinks and a light supper.

Update: Remembrance Day Poppy Wall For Avalon Beach RSL 

If you liked the display in Avalon Beach RSL foyer this week of ANZAC comprised from crocheted and knitted poppies you may wish to get involved with the group that is knitting more of these for a larger display for Remembrance Day 2018.

It is hoped enough are made to fill the garden and cover the garden fence of the RSL.

An anonymous donor has committed to providing the wool and another 150 balls have arrived on Thursday - all you need to do is join in!

Already 12 ladies are busy knitting and crocheting away. You can help by dropping made flowers into the Avalon Beach RSL Club or join the group in the club on Mondays at midday. Just look for Dannie Sloper.

Find out more at HERE

Thanks For Your Support

April 27, 2018: Mona Vale Raiders Rugby League Club

Thanks to Andrew Johns for dropping by training on Friday afternoon. The youngsters were stoked!

MVRRLC are holding their Social Fundraiser on June 2nd. This is the club's Major fundraising event. Cost is $75 cash from canteen on Friday nights and home games or if you wish you can pay $77.50 inc Credit Card Fees online

If you know anyone who would like to donate a prize from their workplace please get in contact with Jen (events@monavalerugbyleague.com.au) who has done a great job getting it off the ground for the first time in a couple of years. VisitHERE to see the great prizes Jen has lined up to date, including a $2000 holiday lucky door prize!

It is going to be at The Bored Monkey in Narrabeen who are also our major training shirt sponsor. All inclusive beer, red & white wine, soft drinks and finger food.

Andrew Johns and MVRRLC players on Friday 

Pittwater Outriggers Saturday Long Paddles

ON SEASONS paddle with lifts Gets a little longer each month in the racing seasons - 16 to 20km 

OFF SEASON Shorter paddle to Portuguese or Sandy Point beach with a 10 min break - depending on winds.

Next is Saturday May 5th: from 6:30am to 8:30am

Commences from Rowland reserve, Bayview.

Find out more at: pittwateroutriggers.teamapp.com & Profile

Also: HUGE Thanks to all those who helped at the Pittwater ORC Working Bee on April 21st for Canoe Cleaning & Maintenance, Canoe Launch Site Cleaning & Maintenance (BYRA & Rowlands)

Review of stock of equipment at both sites.

Bilgola Beach Upgrade 2018

Council has plans to upgrade the landscaping at Bilgola Beach.

The proposed upgrades include:

• Use of synthetic turf
  
• Renewal of the showers and improvement to the accessible shower
  
• Removal of koppers logs and replacement with sandstone seat logs
  
• Retention of existing memorial seats
  

Have your say

Make an online comment

Make a written submission: To the CEO, Northern Beaches Council, 725 Pittwater Road, Dee Why NSW 2099, marked “Bilgola Beach Upgrades 2018”

If you have any questions, please call the Parks and Recreation team on 1300 434 434.

Bilgola Beach Upgrade 2018: Update 11.05 a.m. April 13th from NBC

Council has removed the synthetic turf from the concept planand will instead place natural grass along the beachfront. Other aspects of the proposal currently remain the same, pending the results of the community engagement.

View the project webpage to see the updated plan.

Comments close 13 May 2018

Visit this webpage to view concept landscape plan

Draft Code Of Practice For Flying-Foxes

The Office of Environment and Heritage is seeking feedback on the Draft Code of Practice Authorising Flying-fox Camp Management Actions.

What's this about?

Flying-foxes are protected in NSW by the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016.

Managers of public land, including local councils, work with communities to manage flying-fox camps that are affecting people’s enjoyment of the land.

Currently, public land managers need a biodiversity conservation licence to act in or near flying-fox camps to reduce the impact of camps on nearby communities.

The Office of Environment has prepared a draft code of practice. It defines the standards required for the effective and humane management of flying-fox camps.

If actions required by councils and other public land managers to manage a flying-fox camp are consistent with the code, then a licence will not be required.

Have your say

There are three ways you can submit your feedback:

Online: consultation website

Email: Flying.Fox@environment.nsw.gov.au

Mail: Flying-fox Code of Practice Review

PO Box A290

Sydney South NSW 1232

Have your say by 24 May 2018.

From The Pages Of The Past: H T Squires 

MONA VALE SCULPTOR'S NOVEL ART IN CONCRETE

At Work on Life-sized Mob of Elephants

Descendant of a family of artists and sculptors, Mr. H. Tristran Squire, of Mona Vale, has turned his ability as a modeller and sculptor in a novel direction.

His home is full of statues in concrete, and a big group on which he is now engaged is that of a life-sized mob of elephants. A flamingo in concrete causes the visitor to pause at the front gate, and a jackass and frilled lizards fraternise with life-like rabbits. Mr. Squire's plaques in concrete are in demand, and he is kept fully occupied at his work.

IT WOULD TAKE a big gun to scare this flamingo from his perch. He is a concrete bird.

MONA VALE SCULPTOR'S NOVEL ART IN CONCRETE (1930, May 15). Daily Pictorial (Sydney, NSW : 1930 - 1931), p. 13. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article246185285

2019 Rugby World Cup With The Friends Of Warringah  

Friends of Warringah (FOW) are hosting a tour group for the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan. 

There will be an information night  on Wednesday the 9th Mayat 7:00pm at Rat Park in the Clubhouse. WRC will be supplying snacks and beverages… all are welcome!

Please RSVP to Christine@warringahrugby.com.au by 8th of May.

Warringah Rugby Club

1472 Pittwater Rd, 

North Narrabeen

Visit: warringahrugby.com.au

Songs For Soibada 2018

Hosted by Pittwater Friends Of Soibada

Saturday, May 19 at 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM

at Barrenjoey High school

Tickets; $25 Student, $45 Adult

It will be on again this year - our biggest fundraising event Songs for Soibada! Watch this space to find out more. 

Who will be the performers? - We always have outstanding and well known acts!

What will be the raffle prizes? - Even bigger and better than ever before!

Where will the money go? - All funds raised will go towards the Senior High School Project in Soibada!

Anna's Walk

It is with great pride and emotion that MVSLSC member Adam Lynch invites you to be part of Anna’s Walk.

Adam's beautiful wife, Anna, lost her battle with bladder cancer last year. On Sunday 27th May we are walking in memory of Anna, and to support her passionate wish to help stop this tragic story happening to other families.

Please take a look at annaswalk.org.au to find out all about it, and to register and donate! 

The Imminent Threat To Newport And Avalon…

The congestion. All the new apartments. Traffic jams, even between Newport and Mona Vale. Not to mention the shemozzle at Narrabeen bridge. And now the B Line is about to turn Newport Beach into a bus depot. The simple answer is:

The B Line must terminate at Mona Vale

Didn’t we all come here, kilometres away from the city, for the trees, the blue sea and the beach? Well, you might say, it’s only a bus service but, the threat to our way of life this represents is really serious. Consider these four reasons why the B Line termination at Newport, or Avalon or Palm Beach, would wreck the character and amenity of the far north peninsula:

1. B Line buses are large. Creating a massive roundabout at Newport for these buses means removing trees, widening roads and making an ugly mess of the beach area of Newport. With queues of diesel buses, congestion would be terrible, for the people of Newport and all places further north. 
2. If the B Line were to go further, negotiating the bends at Bilgola and the Avalon Kamakaze roundabout would be absolute chaos. Particularly congestion at Avalon shops would be unacceptable. 
3. The government’s stated intention is for increased density. Extending the B Line to Newport invites further development north of Mona Vale. We’ve all noticed the huge increase in congestion between the northern suburbs and Mona Vale. 
4. If termination is at Newport, the beach parking would be forever filled up. Newport would become a parking station, its beach, its ambiance and its character destroyed.

Bus services north of Mona Vale must be improved

The service is now decidedly worse with the introduction of the B Line. Such is the way all this has been organised, it seems the E88 is now faster from Mona Vale to the city than the B Line.

In some cases, yes , it would be necessary to change at Mona Vale if you are city bound, but everything is a trade-off. If we want to keep the far peninsula as a liveable place, to retain its character and to hold on to a community we all love, the B Line must terminate at Mona Vale. 

At the same time, we must have an improved bus service for the far north peninsula. Make no mistake, the government will make a roundabout at Newport unless we make ourselves heard.

What can we do?

We’ll be talking to the community on the corner of Robertson

road and Barrenjoey road on Saturday mornings from 10.00

to 1.00. Please come and see us. We would welcome your

suggestions as to how to counter this threat.

Friends of Newport Community Group. 

Please email us at friendsofnewport@gmail.com

NB: The authors do not represent that the contents are complete, current and free from error and accept no liability.

Narrabeen Lagoon Aquatic Boardwalk: Have Your Say

Council has developed plans for an aquatic boardwalk for the northern side of the Narrabeen Lagoon trail to improve safety whilst protecting the environment.

Project open for comment: 24 March 2018

Community Drop in Session: 07 April 2018

Comments close: 06 May 2018

Since completion of stage 2b of the Narrabeen Lagoon Trail (NLT) in 2015 the recreational trail has enjoyed high popularity with the community and the Trail is considered a success in promoting a healthy lifestyle while also providing sustainable access to the natural environment.

Council has developed a safe solution for the northern side of the lagoon where the trail is adjacent to the Wakehurst Parkway. This narrow section of trail is a potential hazard for bike riders and pedestrians.

This existing path is in an environmentally sensitive area. The embankment is too unstable to construct a cantilevered structure and would require removal of all vegetation along this part of the riparian zone.

This project has been subject to feasibility reports and substantial planning. We invite you to review the associated documents:

Concept Design

Montage View A

Montage View B

Montage Barrier Colours

Feasibility Report

Aquatic Ecology Report

Fauna and Flora Assessment

Review of Environmental Factors and Biodiversity Management Plan

Have your say

Make an online submission

Attend our drop in session at Bilarong Reserve - Saturday 7 April 2018 – 1-3pm

Make a written submission: To the CEO, Northern Beaches Council, 725 Pittwater Road, Dee Why NSW 2099, marked “Narrabeen Lagoon Aquatic Boardwalk”

If you have any questions, please call the Parks and Recreation team on 1300 434 434.

Documents At: HERE 

New Clearways On Warringah Road Between Roseville Chase And Beacon Hill

11 April 2018: NSW RMS

New and extended clearways will be introduced on Warringah Road from the end of April to help manage traffic flow for motorists who travel along the key corridor between Roseville Chase and Beacon Hill.

A spokesperson said Roads and Maritime Services thanks the community for providing feedback which was considered when finalising the proposed clearways.

“The new and extended weekday clearways are being delivered as part of the NSW Government’s $121 million Clearways Program which aims to reduce delays and congestion by maximising use of existing road space,” the spokesperson said.

“The new clearways will take effect from Monday 30 April andwill operate in both directions on Warringah Road between Roseville Bridge at Roseville Chase and Beacon Hill Road at Beacon Hill from 6am to 7pm on weekdays and from 9am to 6pm on weekends and public holidays.

“Introducing clearways on this busy transport corridor through Forestville, Frenchs Forest and Beacon Hill will help manage traffic flow and improve journey reliability.

“This important corridor provides access to schools, shopping centres as well as a number of community and recreational services.

“This corridor also provides direct access to Forest Way, Wakehurst Parkway and the Northern Beaches.”

The spokesperson said implementing clearways along this section of Warringah Road will ensure all lanes are available to traffic during the day.

“A single parked car can significantly reduce road capacity and cause delays on busy road corridors so it is important to ensure all lanes are available to improve journey reliability for motorists,” the spokesperson said.

“Clearways will change the ability to park, pick up and drop off family and friends and allow deliveries to be made along Warringah Road.

“During clearway hours, residents will need to reconsider parking arrangements for visitors including parking on local streets.”

Work to install new clearway signage will be carried out between Monday 16 and Sunday 29 April, weather permitting.

Parked vehicles can be reported to the Transport Management Centre on 131 700.

For more information visit Sydney Clearways Program.

Unleashed Dog Exercise Areas Review

Council are currently developing a 'Dogs in Public Places Policy' that will provide key guidelines on how dogs are managed in public places. The Policy will include the list of dog off-leash parks and places where dogs are prohibited.

Go to the project webpage to register your interest in this project.The draft Policy is expected to be ready for public exhibition in May 2018.

Ingleside - Key Actions And Documents

The next steps in the planning process for Ingleside are as follows:

• All of the submissions and feedback have been reviewed. Feedback from landowners, Northern Beaches Council, the Ingleside Community Reference Group, state agencies and the community will inform the development of the final Land Use and Infrastructure Implementation Plan.
  
• A decision will be made regarding the proposed amendment to the State Environmental Planning Policy (Sydney Region Growth Centres) 2006 to make Ingleside a Priority Growth Area. An amendment to the policy will help to assist Northern Beaches Council when assessing development applications prior to rezoning. This will ensure that the intended planning outcomes for Ingleside are considered during the assessment of new buildings or projects.
  
• The final Land Use and Infrastructure Implementation Plan will be released early in 2018, which forms the basis of the formal planning controls and contributions schemes. The Plan will include new material on energy and water conservation measures as well as affordable housing.
  
• The formal planning controls and contributions schemes will also be placed on exhibition for comment at that time, including:
  

1. Proposed changes to land use zones and associated controls for Ingleside;
   
2. An application for Biodiversity Certification (this is required to be exhibited at the same time as the rezoning proposal). Biodiversity Certification enables areas of high conservation value to be identified upfront and means that landowners, Council and developers don't need to undertake a threatened species assessment during the Development Application stage;
   
3. A Development Control Plan, addressing urban design controls for streetscapes, active travel, other public spaces and controls regarding the built form;
   
4. A Special Infrastructure Contributions determination (section 94EE), funding biodiversity offsets, major infrastructure and potentially affordable housing;
   
5. A Local Infrastructure Contributions Plan (Section 94), funding local infrastructure which will be maintained by Northern Beaches Council.
   

Ingleside Draft Strategy and draft technical studies

Please Help: Contribute To Significant Trees Register For Our Area

Significant trees listings wanted

February 28, 2018: Avalon Preservation Association

The next step in the Avalon Preservation Association's Avalon Cultural Audit is to identify and list significant trees in the area.

Roger Sayers has nominated the Spotted Gums in the reserve opposite Careel Bay Wharf.

Please help us by contributing your pick of significant trees in the area so we can map them and enter into our database.

You can either post a picture/s on the APA Facebook page and identify location of tree/s and species type if known or email us with same at secretary@avalonpreservationassociation.org.au

Our new Avalon Preservation Association Noticeboard is finally installed on corner of Belle Property Building near Herforts Chemist Old Barrenjoey Rd Avalon Beach. Many thanks to Mark Griffin Belle Property for use of wall and Robert Adema for installation.

Planning Alerts

Planning applications: Pittwater

Find out what's happening in your area. Get alerts of new applications near here straight in your email. It's free!

Petition: Save Ingleside From Over-Development

PROPOSED INGLESIDE DEVELOPMENT

We the undersigned, write in connection with the above proposal and wish to object strongly and respectfully to the development of the area in the proposed manner.

Ingleside is a dispersed settlement where development proposals should be considered very carefully: infilling could ruin the character of the area but estate development will not only overwhelm it but also overwhelm the vast majority of residents living from Narrabeen to Palm Beach who will travel through or near Ingleside every day.

Naturally, we understand that the State Government has a determined growth strategy. However, the overwhelming increase in immediate population and thoroughfare traffic will have a devastating effect upon the existing population who live here and contribute to Sydney as a city and as a defined demographic already. 

Pressure for the development in the region is considerable, mainly for housing city commuters, but has been successfully resisted for more than 30 years for the same reasons as now. The infrastructure was not in place and as can be seen by the impact of development in Warriewood, remains at an unsupportive level. The reasons for rejecting those schemes also included the inadequacy of the minor roads apart from Mona Vale Road to accommodate even small increases in traffic. 

Reference is made to the over one thousand comments on the supporting website, mostly by residents of Pittwater external to the immediate area of Ingleside who have failed to have a voice but as your constituents have equal right to be represented as bearing the impact of the development. With the above in mind, we request that the development be reviewed to take into account the residents of Pittwater, whom you represent. Rather than telling them why it will be good for them, consider the voice of the residents and understand why it will be bad for them. 

Sign Petition here

New Season for Sailability Pittwater 

Sailability Pittwater is a volunteer organisation which provides sailing for people with a disability. Our main recreational sailing activities are at Rowland Reserve, Bayview, and we run competitive sailing for people with a disability out of RPAYC Newport. We are currently looking for new volunteers for our Saturday morning program at Rowland Reserve and Tuesdays at RPA. For more information at  www.sailability.org/au/pittwater or call John on 9982 5656

Red Cross Shop Newport

The Newport Red Cross shop desperately needs your quality, discarded clothing items. Now that spring is almost springing, perhaps you are all set to 'declutter' your offshore abode. But what to do with all those gems that are no longer you. Well donate them of course. The Red Cross shop at Newport is very excited to receive your cast offs. We also take small household items but alas, no electrical or furniture. 

Did you know that all profits from Red Cross shops stay in Australia? Profits from Red Cross shops support worthy programmes like providing breakfast for school kids, Telecross - a daily call to elderly people in need of contact, youth services, disaster relief, mental health services and much, much more.

Should you need assistance please feel free to call me or just leave your items in our boat. We live on the northern side of Lovett Bay between Now and Zen and Therese and John. The house is called 'Foreshore' and our boat is a Stabicraft for purposes of identification! 

Don't hesitate to call in to the Newport Red Cross shop with your donations - close to Woolworths petrol station at 334 Barrenjoey Rd Newport or call Lesley Scott to help with donations - 0410 687864

Facebook page 

Residents Want 'Welcome To Pittwater' Sign Returned

Pittwater Online has been contacted by a number of residents this week expressing their dismay that the 'Welcome to Pittwater' sign as you come along Wakehurst Parkway has disappeared.

Although many of the former Pittwater Council logos are disappearing or being scrubbed out from the names of wharves, obviously to be replaced by the new 'design', readers have expressed this cheery sign made them many feel welcomed and gave those returning home a boost after a long day.

As Pittwater is now a Ward, with different boundaries, the wish expressed is that such a sign may be returned and placed where the new lines mark Pittwater's circumference so that good cheer may continue.

The Old

 The New?

 Gone Fishing Gallery at Waterfront Store Church Point

Open again TODAY in the top room Waterfront Store. Open mainly weekends as an addition to the waterfront cafe. Keep up to date on their Facebook page

Congratulations To Manly SES Volunteer Naomi Leviton

Mona Vale SLSC Renewal Feasibility Study And Business Case