Community News: October 2020

October 25 - 31, 2020: Issue 471

This Issue: full list in Contents page 

Front Page Issue 471 

PEP 11 Proponents Announce New Board Members Same Week as Marine Environment Motion Debated - The Parliamentary Sitting Notice Paper for Monday October 26th 2020 Lists Resumption of debate (from 19 October 2020) on the motion of Mr Falinski - Advent state a drill target site has been identified and that it is ‘committed to continuing to explore for and ultimately exploit any petroleum accumulations which may be identified in this title area…’

Slingsby and Darmanin Reprise Top Honours At Australian Sailing Awards 2020

Pictures The Towlers Bay Loop + A Hike To Mount Murray Anderson - Photos By Kevin Murray and Joe Mills

Food Kindred Peanut Butter: Great Food For A Good Cause From A Local Producer

DIY Ideas Perfect Tomatoes, Capsicums and Spring Onions - Summer Salad Staples + what to plant now: With a wetter than average Spring forecast late October is the perfect time to plant out those Summer Salad basics that you know will go through the roof, price wise, by Christmas. There's nothing nicer then picking the components of a great Summer salad from your own garden; it doesn't get any fresher, with enough rain forecast, it's not going to cost you too much, and, if you follow a few tips from the experts, gathered here for your enjoyment, you will be growing vegetables/fruits with the kind of taste and quality you only find on deep rich soil farms far from the big smoke.

Park Bench Philosopher Protect Antarctica Now: Over 280 Women In STEMM Call For Marine Protected Area - The Thirty-ninth Meetings of the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources and the Scientific Committee is taking place, online, until Friday, 30 October 2020. A team of female scientists, led by Australians, are urgently calling for a Marine Protected Area around the Antarctic Peninsula.

Reflections by George Repin: MALTA

Aquatics: Three Ferries Named Narrabeen (1883 To 1984) + One Named Barranjoey (1913-1985)

Profile Margaret White

The year long 100th anniversary celebration of the formation of Zonta is drawing to a close. Zonta was first formed on November 8th 1919 in Buffalo, New York, by journalist and playwright Marian de Forest who envisioned a network of women working to support each other in establishing themselves in their chosen professional careers in what was a male dominated workforce. In the States women were only just getting to vote and graduate from Colleges, their status and rights were still being determined by men. 

Then and now ‘Zonta Clubs still select, fund and participate in community projects fundamental to promoting women's economic self-sufficiency, political equality, access to education and health care and the elimination of violence against women.’

Unfortunately some of the activities usually undertaken by our local chapter, Zonta Northern Beaches, have been curtailed in 2020 due to Covid-safety measures and at a time when the need for assistance has risen sharply. 

One of their members, and the lady who is front and centre during each annual Birth Kit Packing Day at Barrenjoey High School is Margaret White, shares a few insights into her decades long Nursing career and catches us up on what Zonta Northern Beaches has been doing and plans to do for the remainder of 2020 and into 2021.

Environment Thousands Of Caper White Butterflies Over Pittwater, Coastal Angophora Now In Bloom, Aussie Back Yard Bird Count 2020: Over Four Million Birds Counted So Far, Local Land Services Amendment Bill Passes Lower House; Koala ‘Compromise’ May Hasten Iconic Animal Extinction, Hard to spot but worth looking out for: 8 Tawny Frogmouth facts, Japan plans to dump one million tonnes of radioactive water into the Pacific, Tick Population Booming In Our Area, Shorebird Identification Booklet: free to download, Pittwater Reserves, Community Gardens and Environment Groups, Pittwater Reserves++

Inbox News $200,000 Revamp For Norah Head Lighthouse, A Promising New Tool In The Fight Against Melanoma, Seeing No Longer Believing: The Manipulation Of Online Images, The 'Goldilocks Day': The Perfect Day For Kids' Bone Health, Nanogenerator 'Scavenges' Power From Their Surroundings

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: October 11, 2020

Click on Logo to access latest PON:  

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Vale Thomas Knox

It is our melancholy duty to inform this community of the passing of Mona Vale gentleman Thomas 'Tommy' Knox.

Our sincere condolences and deepest sympathies are extended to his children and grandchildren at this time. 

Tommy was born In Glasgow, Scotland on February 9, 1925. He served in WWII with the Royal Air Force - Warrant Officer and in Bomber Command and as a Parachute Instructor. Two members of the crew he flew with were Australians who must have shared stories Tommy recalled after being demobbed and finding himself shovelling snow.

Tommy emigrated to Australia in 1950 and met up with one of these men, met his wife and had children.

Earlier this year a special 'street parade' organised by his proud grandchildren gave his neighbours an opportunity to pay their respects in a very different ANZAC Day 2020.

He was a vey kind and humble gentle man, with a twinkle in his eyes and sharp as a tack even though the years had rolled on.

Tommy shared his story as part of this community's 2020 VE Day 75th Commemorations. 
Thank you for your Service sir.


Tommy Knox - Receiving the Legion of Honour from the French Consulate in September 2015. Photo by Michael Mannington.

A Run To Palm Beach In An Old Bus History Page Held Over

News as we go to press that over 4 million birds have already been counted in the annual Aussie Backyard Bird Count has staffers so excited, with so many local contributors too!, that Barranjoey Land Company Director and amateur Ornithologist  Harry Wolstenholme is staying up for another week in the hope he will inspire Readers to get their counts in - you have until 4pm today, Sunday October 25th. Visit: aussiebirdcount.org.au

For those of you groaning because you LOVE the History pages - please visit this week's Aquatics feature and catch a ferry ride on the 1913 launched 'Barranjoey' - or have a look at some of the long winding sea trails of three named 'Narrabeen'. 

Covet Problems At Warriewood

A post on a community social media forum page points to a growing problem in Warriewood where teenagers are standing over slightly younger teenagers and demanding they hand over items of clothing or shoes. The items targeted are the 'name' brands all teenagers want and save hard, or mum or dad works hard to purchase for them.

Apparently this is occurring every weekend, in the middle of the day, with those being approached to hand over wanted items being threatened with assault if they do not comply.

The most recent incident, Saturday October 24th at 12:20 pm was a child in his first year of being a teenager being surrounded by 4 a few years older than that, and part of a group of around 30 teenagers. His mother, a single mum, had to go without so he could have these few precious items.

The matter was reported to police.

Her plea is that we all speak to our children and ensure if they have experienced the same that it is reported to our local police as other teens aren't telling their parents it is happening on a regular basis due to threats and warnings there will be repercussions if they do. 

Her plea is that we all work together as a community to address this behaviour before it escalates.

If your teenager is coming home with items you know you have not bought for them, and they could not have bought for themselves, where are they coming from?

Marine Rescue Broken Bay News

Out on the water this weekend? Stormy weather is on the way!
Thunderstorms can generate strong, squally winds, heavy rain with reduced visibility, hail, waterspouts and lightning.

If you are out on the water, storms, possibly severe, are forecast for many parts of NSW this weekend. Storms pose a hazard to boaters and it is important that you check the forecast before heading out and make plans to return before conditions deteriorate. You can also call Marine Rescue NSW on VHF Channel 16 for the latest weather forecast while out on the water. 

The Bureau of Meteorology advise that warnings for thunderstorms or severe thunderstorms are NOT provided for Coastal Waters areas. Mariners should refer to the Coastal Waters forecast for the likelihood of thunderstorms.

The Bureau also advise that when thunderstorms are forecast for capital city Local Waters areas, it is important to check whether Severe Thunderstorm Warnings have been issued for the capital city area. Severe Thunderstorm Warnings are issued when wind gusts exceeding 48 knots, or large hail, or heavy rainfall, or tornadoes are expected. 

Stay safe and if in doubt, don't head out!

Marine Rescue Broken Bay member Ian McFarlane thanked Dan Murphys at Mona Vale for supporting the Broken Bay unit by giving us the opportunity to setup donation boxes in their store. COVID19 has prevented our unit from doing fundraising activities so every little bit helps.



Thanks to our colleagues in Cottage Point, 6 members from Broken Bay joined them and Middle Harbour on a First Aid and Advanced Resuscitation Course. This culminated in the team dealing with a major incident on the beach involving several badly injured people with a variety of wounds and requiring CPR.  Fortunately this was only simulated, but this kind of realistic exercise is an essential part of preparing our teams. Hoping everyone stays safe on the water and we don’t need to put these skills to use this summer.


Surf Life Saving Squad At The Basin

A few weeks back Peter Bodman, a Reader sent in a photo and query and said he'd send in a few of his family photos to share with the community. This week they turned up - from Peter:

''Sally Morris known as Peg was prominent during my childhood as Peg's cottage stood near the wharf site.  One time after a storm when we were camping our tent ripped and the Ranger allowed us to stay in Peg's Cottage and that would be late 50's early 60's.  The cottage should've been saved, but sadly is no longer there.

On the hillside in the Inner Basin on an old walking track there is a gravesite, as I recall properly constructed with an iron surround. I'm now wondering who is buried there as it was something we visited as kids.  Both my mother's and sister's ashes are spread at The Basin on the hillside behind where our tent site, so they form part of the people who chose The Basin as their final resting place.

Some photos;


My sister Wendy-Lee & myself, early days for us camping at The Basin


The campers during extended holidays at Christmas, no doubt under my father's guidance, set up mock surf rescues and patrols.


A boyhood friend with the old cold water shower and change shed in the background.  There were two sheds for men and women, close the the fenced off baths with a large diving platform at the Inner Basin.



A group of kids & the typical camp sites behind, most campers had large family tents app. 15 foot x 15'.

Peter Bodman,
October 2020

North Head Sanctuary – Hazard Reduction Burn Breach

October 19, 2020: Harbour Trust
On 17 and 18 October, a NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service hazard reduction burn at North Head in Manly breached its containment lines and burnt a significant part of the headland.

While it appears there has been no damage to Harbour Trust buildings, there has been significant damage to the local flora and fauna as well as many of the bush paths.

The Harbour Trust is working with NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Fire and Rescue NSW to ensure public safety, and with the Australian Wildlife Conservancy to understand the impact on the environment. 

The Harbour Trust will now take immediate steps to help in the recovery of the local flora and fauna.
NOTE: North Head Sanctuary is currently closed to visitors, with all tracks and walks closed. Access is currently only available to tenants located within the School of Artillery and visitors of these premises. 

TOMMY GILBERT

This poem says most of what I observed of Tom over the 60 years I had known him. ‘The Jolly Big Giant’ might be an apt description, especially in his later years.

He was thrilled when I received my OAM – “At last we have royalty in Albert Road” he quipped, although he had been the undisputed Mayor of Albert Road in Avalon Beach for many years previously.
Geoff Searl, OAM
October 2020

When you recall early Avalonians 
Tommy Gilbert’s name always stands out
He was a leading pupil of the old school
And knew what life was about

A good mate of Tommy Gilberts
Meant that you were one for life
Especially if you struck hard times
Or found yourself in strife

His mum was truly Avalon-born 
Along with twelve other kids
All born at home in Etival Street
They must’ve cost ‘em quids

Tom apprenticed with a sparky
To try and learn a trade
With an electrician at North Sydney
A few quid was all he got paid

Tom left and joined the ‘tyre brigade’
With ‘Avalon-Narrabeen Tyres’
It all looked pretty good for a while
And besides he was now sick of wires

Tom became a wizard with tyres
For any model or make
A few of the servos tried to compete
But he left them in his wake

His boss got shitty with Tom one day
“how long’s that gonna take”
“I’m fixin’ this nice lady’s tyre for her
So go jump in the bloody lake”

With this Tom moved across the road
Not far but just enough
‘Totally Toms’ was about to be born
“No-one’s gonna call my bluff”

‘Totally Toms’ took off with a bang
At times with fourteen employees
Customer’s cares were his main concern
Which ‘Totally’ handled with ease

‘Friendly’ became one of Tommy’s best mates
But could only work partly part-time
‘Friendly’ was a Water Policeman
But a decent mechanic part-time

Another good mate was Pete Verrills
A ‘shippy’ from way, way back
You’d look out when these two got together
And run for your life or change tack

‘The Doggies’ was one of Tom’s great loves in life
For three years he was president
And he also loved Manly Sea Eagles
These two he supported, hell bent

Dawn was the only true love of his life
She endured him but loved him for years
To everyone they were inseparable
For Dawny, her Tom had no peers

The servo had closed ‘cause the freehold was sold
But Tommy was not finished yet
If they need some tyre changes in heaven
He’ll put his hand up first, I’ll bet

Friendly (OAM), Peter Verrills, Tom.
AJG photo.

Avalon Bulldogs 2020 Presentation Day

Avalon Bulldogs had their 59th. Annual Presentation Day at Hitchcock Park, Avalon Beach on 17th October, 2020.

Club Person of the Year   :  was Virginia Leigh
Mum of the Year               :  was Emma Wake
Club Coach of the Year     :  was Bjorn Wolthers.

The club conducted the 'presentation' under the strict Covid guidelines and all attendees completed the 'register' prior to meeting at the area adjacent to the club house. Trophies were presented to many players and 'Premiership Jackets' awarded to the Under 13 Premiership winning side.

SPECIAL THANKS  must go to our 'Guest of Honour' Sam Verrills (Sydney Roosters Premiership winning hooker 2019) who first played for the club in the Under 6's in 2003 and 2004. He won the Under 17 Grand Final on Brooky Oval in 2017 for the Mighty Avalon Bulldogs, was selected in the Sea Eagles Representative sides before signing with the Roosters. 

We thank the Roosters Staff for allowing Sam to present trophies which he then had photos taken with players, parents and old coaches. As he had other commitments, Sam graciously said farewell and thanked all the crowd for their efforts during this Covid effected season. He is a credit to the NRL, the Sydney Roosters and his family and we are all proud of how he presents himself as a gentleman and Rugby League player.

Brian Friend, OAM
Avalon Bulldogs Life Member


Coach of the Year Bjorn Wolthers with Sam Verrills

Player of the Year - holding the shield - Isaac! Congratulations!

Sam Verrills congratulates Emma Wake 'Mum of the Year' 

A BIG thank you to former Bulldog Player Sam Verrills - Friendly, Sam, PC and AC!

Grandparents Day 2020

Celebrate  NSW Grandparents Day on Sunday October 25 and say thanks to the wonderful grandparents and seniors in your life!!

NSW Grandparents Day celebrates the contributions grandparents make to their families and communities. The campaign recognises the diversity of grandparent relationships across age groups, cultural backgrounds, and geographical locations. Grandparents, grand-friends, kin, and those who take on the role of a grandparent in their family or community are celebrated for their contributions. It aims to foster intergenerational learning and offers older people ongoing opportunities to participate in their local communities.

It's a day to spend time with an older loved one and connect across the generations.

NSW Grandparents Day is held every year on the last Sunday in October. In 2020 it will be celebrated today, Sunday 25 October.


Wakehurst Senior Robert Stark Awarded Grandparent Of The Year 2020

A busy volunteer and proud community leader has been honoured as the 2020 NSW Grandparent of the Year. Robert Stark is a retired police officer from Sydney’s Northern Beaches who has been the primary carer for his 9 year old granddaughter Ruby since she was 6 months old.

Acting Minister for Seniors Geoff Lee and Member for Wakehurst Brad Hazzard congratulated Mr Stark on Friday at NSW Parliament House.

“The NSW Grandparent of the Year Award recognises and celebrates the amazing contribution grandparents make to their families and our society,” Mr Lee said.

“Grandparents like Robert Stark help make communities stronger with their energy and commitment and I am so happy to present him with this year’s top prize.”

Alongside caring for Ruby, Mr Stark volunteers at the Long Reef Surf Life Saving Club, Cromer Public School and the Collaroy Cromer Strikers Football Club.

“I am really pleased to be named the 2020 NSW Grandparent of the Year,” Mr Stark said.

“Throughout my life I have always strongly believed in giving back to the community so being recognised in this way is a great honour.”

Mr Stark won a Nokia smart phone with a six month 5G plan courtesy of Pennytel and a $1,000 Mitre 10 voucher courtesy of Metcash.

“We are so proud to have Mr Stark crowned Grandparent of the Year. His attitude to his community and his love and care for his granddaughter is so inspiring and he’s such a worthy winner,” Mr Hazzard said.

Grandparents Day will be celebrated across NSW this Sunday, 25th October and is an opportunity to thank our seniors for the unique part they play in supporting their families and communities.

“Whether you call them granny or gramps, nan or pop, Grandparents Day is a great opportunity to remind them how much they are appreciated,” Mr Lee said.

“This has been a challenging year for our seniors so keeping connected and showing support is especially important.

$133,000 Fine For Environmental Pollution Of Pittwater

October 22, 2020
Transport for NSW and the Land and Environment Court has sent a strong message to would-be polluters after a protracted investigation into illegal waste management in Sydney waters.

NSW Maritime A/ Executive Director Andrew Mogg said East Coast Wharf Constructions Pty Ltd and its director, Benjamin King, 45, were charged with transportation of waste to a site that was not a waste facility, and occupying a place and using it as a waste facility under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act.

“Transport for NSW investigators had Mr King and his company in their sights from as far back as 2015 when large sections of a pontoon which had been demolished by the company were stored at Mr King’s mooring, and were subsequently found on the seabed at Pittwater,” Mr Mogg said.

“Underwater searches using divers and hydrographic survey found almost three tonnes of inorganic building material in sections measuring from 7.5 to 9 metres in length.

“After the longest ever maritime investigation by Transport for NSW, we were able to secure a prosecution. The court has issued a significant penalty for this kind of environmental damage in maritime waters,” he said.

Mr King, who pleaded guilty on behalf of himself and his company, will be required to pay $133,000 in fines, plus costs which are yet to be determined, in what will hopefully become a significant deterrent for others who might think about where they put their rubbish out of boats.

Specialist in environment and planning law, Dr Nick Brunton, from Norton Rose Fulbright Australia, said he was proud to have been involved in the maritime prosecution.

“Once this case becomes known, it will send a strong message to those foolish enough to consider our waters are a waste disposal facility,” Dr Brunton said.

“Some 20 years ago I wrote my doctorate on coastal water pollution and it’s nice to feel that progress is being made to stop it.”

Avalon PS Art 2020

The Avalon Public School 2020 Art Gallery will be spread along the front fence on Old Barrenjoey Rd. Each child will have one piece of magnificent artwork displayed within their class which will be clearly labelled. These special artworks have been laminated and will be on display brightening up our front fence from the 26th to the 30th of October.

Please stop by and browse through all of the brilliant artworks and marvel at our aspiring artists! 

During these special times, please be mindful of other adults and stay 1.5 metres apart when viewing the APS gallery.

Infrastructure Funding For Forest High School

Frenchs Forest High School students have received much welcome upgrades to their outdoor learning area. The completed construction of a covered outdoor area will provide shade and protection from rain to teachers and students as they continue their educational journey outdoors. 

Member for Mackellar has congratulated the school on the completion of the project.

“It’s great to see the completed construction of a covered outdoor area at Forest High. It benefits the students, staff and entire community, especially as we come into summer. Gail and her team deserve great credit.” Mr Falinski said.

The COLA [Covered Outdoor Learning Area] will be used for outdoor learning particularly in the rain or hotter days, by the children. 

It will also be used for parent functions including the schools fair, BBQs and musical evenings. Located next to the canteen, the COLA will also be used for afternoon tea and breakfast functions run by the P&C.

Frenchs Forest High School principal, Gail Smith has expressed her gratitude in having the project completed. 

“The community grant allowed us to build a much-needed covered outdoor learning area (COLA). ​The space will allow us to run outdoor learning programs for the children as well as offering a sheltered place to eat and play.” Ms Smith said.  

“Families will enjoy the space for our annual band event ‘concert under the stars’ and it will make a perfect outdoor café for our fairs.” 

“It’s beautiful and functional and we are delighted!”

The grant was provided under the $30.2 million Local Schools Community Fund. As of 1 October 2020, of the 15 projects approved for the electorate of Mackellar, the department has received 7 submissions and of those, 6 project closure reports have been finalised. 



Photo: The completed COLA at Frenchs Forest High School

Mona Vale Road East Upgrade – Temporary Closure Of Foley Street At Mona Vale Road From Monday 19 October

The NSW Government is investing $140 million to upgrade Mona Vale Road between Manor Road, Ingleside, and Foley Street, Mona Vale, from two to four lanes to improve safety and traffic efficiency.

Work is progressing on the eastern end of the Mona Vale Road East upgrade between the Mona Vale Cemetery and Foley Street. To continue this work, Foley Street will be closed at Mona Vale Road from Monday 19 October to Thursday 29 October from 9am to 4pm Monday to Friday, weather permitting.

We will close Foley Street at Mona Vale Road each day during this period while we dig across Foley Street to install underground electrical cables and install new overhead power cables.

Traffic changes

Traffic detours via Ponderosa Parade will be in place as per the map below. Access for Foley Street residents will be via Jubilee Avenue, Warriewood Road or Vineyard Street. Traffic controllers will be on site to direct motorists and pedestrians safely past our work zone and assist residents in and out of their driveways. Access to Pittwater RSL will be from Jubilee Avenue.

Please allow extra travel time, follow displayed speed limits and the direction of traffic controllers and signs.

How will the work affect you?

There may be some increased noise each day however we will minimise noise where possible and ensure we turn off equipment and vehicles when not in use.

The upgrade of the Foley Street and Mona Vale Road intersection will occur in stages. The first stage includes widening the intersection and building a new footpath. We will write to you again before starting the next stage of work.

Pedestrians and bus passengers

The affected bus stops on Foley Street (shown below) will be closed during the work from 9am to 4pm.

Alternative bus stops are located further to the south on Warriewood Road or on Mona Vale Road. Signs will be in place to direct bus passengers and other pedestrians.

Contact

We are committed to minimising the impact of construction on the community and will continue to keep you informed. If you have any questions, please contact our delivery contractor Georgiou Group.

Thank you for your patience during this important work. 

Mona Vale Road East Upgrade Out Of Hours Work: To October 30

Out of hours work is planned from 8pm to 6am on the below dates, weather permitting. If work is delayed due to wet weather, we will try and work a different night that same week. We will notify highly impacted residents if there is a change of date.

Work along the eastern end of the project (from Mona Vale Cemetery to Foley Street, will occur on:

  • Tuesday 20, Thursday 22 and Friday 23 October
  • Tuesday 27, Thursday 28 and Friday 29 October

Our work includes:

  • digging trenches along Samuel Street from the Mona Vale Road/Ponderosa Parade roundabout to Fazzolari Avenue
  • removing of asphalt at the Mona Vale Road/Ponderosa Parade roundabout
  • installing/moving of barriers along the section of road from the roundabout to Foley Street
  • ongoing road maintenance.

(Refer to Mona Vale Road East Upgrade map below)

Work along the western end of the project (from Manor Road to Mona Vale Cemetery) will occur on:

  • Monday 19, Tuesday 20, Thursday 22 and Friday 23 October
  • Monday 26, Tuesday 27, Thursday 28 and Friday 29 October

Our work includes:

  • removing rock from the existing rock cuttings near the end of Laurel Road ( cut 3), Lane Cove Road (cut 4) and Walana Crescent (cut 5)
  • excavating and constructing stormwater drainage in the area east of the site compound 
  • hauling material away from our work zones at cut 3, 4, and 5 to the Western Early Works site
  • ongoing road maintenance.

(Refer to Mona Vale Road East Upgrade map below)

Work at our Western Early Work site off Tumburra Street, Ingleside includes:

  • tipping spoil collected from the western end work sites and then spreading and compacting it in this area
  • removing rock from the cutting next to Mona Vale Road.

(Refer to Western Early Work map below)

During our night work we will use excavators with rock hammers, large bulldozers, backhoes, tipper trucks, elevated work platforms, a roller, a paver, a profiler, street sweepers, vacuum trucks, light vehicles and lighting towers.

The Environment Protection Agency has approved a trial of increased night work, to four nights a week, over a six week period for the western end of the project. This is necessary to remove the remaining rock along Mona Vale Road. The trial began on Monday 12 October.

We will contact highly and moderately impacted residents during the trial to seek your feedback and agreement for the four nights per week to continue beyond the six week trial.

For more information call us on 1800 413 640, email monavaleroad@georgiou.com.au or visit rms.work/mvreast.

If you need help understanding this information, please contact the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450.

Mums For Mums Xmas 2020 Fundraiser

These ‘Gingerbread Folk’ gingerbread house kits are a wonderfully festive family activity, and come in three varieties – Original, Gluten Free, and Chocolate, complete with lollies to decorate!

Assembled house approx 16cm (h) x 15cm (w) x 12cm (d)

packaging dimensions 20cm (h) x 27.5cm (w) x 4.7cm (d)

  • Made in Australia
  • Vegan
  • Nut free
  • Palm oil free
  • No added colours or flavours
  • No added preservatives
  • Compostable wrapper
  • Kosher

Order your kits with us between now and FRIDAY NOVEMBER 20th. Pick up locally from the Newport Rugby Club House on SUNDAY DECEMBER 6th between 10 am and 2 pm.

Order at: www.mumsformums.org.au/christmas-gingerbread-houses

2021 Road Safety Calendar ‘Best Of’ Collection

An eye-catching reminder of road rules for the family or workplace, the 2021 Road Safety Calendar features a ‘best of’ collection bringing together some of the best road safety messages from the past four calendars. 

Catchy slogans, vintage poster art, and interesting facts highlight a road safety message each month in a fun and engaging way. The calendar is available free to all northern Sydney residents by contacting your local council or picking up from various community locations. 

The calendar year begins in January with a reminder on driveway safety and ends with a December specials pub menu, listing options for a night out in the festive season. Other topics include driving safely in school zones, the importance of driving to the conditions, being a courteous road user and sharing the road safely with all road users. 

The calendar is an important reminder for all drivers, riders, cyclists and pedestrians alike, and has been delivered to residents since 2001 with the aim of educating and encouraging positive behaviour for all road users, across all ages.

The 2021 Road Safety Calendar is a collaboration between six northern Sydney councils: North Sydney, Hornsby, Ku-ring-gai, Lane Cove, Northern Beaches and City of Ryde. Please contact your local council for a copy of the calendar. 


Council 2019-2020 Annual Financial Statements: Have Your Say

In accordance with Section 418 (3) of the Local Government Act 1993, Northern Beaches Council advises that the Ordinary Council Meeting to be held on Tuesday 27 October 2020 will include the presentation of the audited Financial Statements and the Auditor’s Reports for the financial year ended 30 June 2020.

In accordance with Section 420 of the Local Government Act 1993, any person may make a submission in writing to Council with respect to Council’s Audited Financial Statements or the Auditor’s Reports.

Share your feedback today by:

For more information please contact Renae Wilde, Team Leader Financial Accounting, on 1300 434 434.

Comments Opened Friday October 16, 2020

Comments close Tuesday November 3rd, 2020

Visit: https://yoursay.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/2019-2020-annual-financial-statements

Proposed Minor Amendments To Flood Prone Land Planning Requirements

Council is currently seeking feedback regarding the Flood Prone Land Clause within the Development Control Plan (DCP), which describes the planning requirements for flood prone land.

The 'Have Your Say' page states;

A recent review of the clause has identified an opportunity to simplify the text and incorporate associated standards and policies into the single DCP clause.

The proposed amendments will clarify how we manage development and risk on flood prone land in the Northern Beaches and create a 'one-stop-shop' for applicants.

They do not affect the number of flood prone properties or change the severity of the controls, and they do not change the type of information required to be submitted with Development Applications.

At its meeting on 29 September 2020, Council resolved to publicly exhibit minor amendments to the flood prone land planning requirements.

View the proposed amended clause, along with the existing clause and the summary of the changes. You can also download these below. For further info, you can read the Council Report and FAQs - also on the page linked to below.

Submissions close November 9, 2020

Visit: https://yoursay.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/amendment-flood-prone-land-dcp-clause


Belrose: Proposed Junior Bike Skills Area

Council have developed a concept plan for a Wyatt Avenue, Belrose reserve, directly adjacent to the school. They want to ensure the reserve is used and enjoyed by the local community.

With the growth of cycling on the Northern Beaches, we're seeking to provide opportunities for young local riders to develop their skills and confidence.

The plan includes a junior bike trail loop, an informal grassed open space for practicing bike skills (e.g. bunny hop), a seating/picnic area, an accessible entry path loop and other landscape elements.

View the concept plan and let Council know what you think in the comment form here.

Feedback received will help finalise the plan before construction begins later this year. If you have any questions, please contact the Senior Asset Management Officer by email or on 1300 434 434.

Comments close Monday 9 November 2020.

Soibada Update

Friends of Soibada and the community in the village want to say thank you! 

Don’t forget, please share our crowdfunding campaign to as many people as you can. We are about half way to our target and you can see in this video what a difference your generosity is making!
Crowdfunding page: https://bit.ly/3gfsAcd


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DoggieRescue.com

Pets Of The Week

Blaze

AGE/SEX: 4 years / M
BREED: Cattle X Staffy

Blaze is an active friendly boy. In his previous life he was living with a homeless person. Our trainer says: "He loves toys and balls but can get over excited and bit rough and there suit teenage children. He is quite athletic and we be a great agility dog. Nice temperament. Will sit politely for treats." Blaze is keen for his walks and pulls on lead a bit and can lunge playfully at other dogs. Walkers say "very well behaved overall. Just a little pulling on lead". He has a smooth coat and weighs 26kg. 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. 

Silver


Silver appears to be a Burmilla and is approximately 5 years old. He is a very sweet though a bit shy with people. He is social with other cats. His coat is medium and silver/tabby in colour. He comes desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV/FeLV tested and microchipped. His adoption fee is $220. He is located at Ingleside.
If you are interested in meeting him call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email cats@DoggieRescue.com


DOG WALKING is recommencing
DoggieRescue is delighted to announce restrictions have been lifted on walking at our shelter, we are looking forward to welcoming you back onsite. 

We have had some changes occur during COVID-19 that we want you to be aware of. We no longer require you to sign up in advance for dog walking. However, due to the large number of successful adoptions we have very few child friendly dogs available to walk so we may not be able to accommodate walking for your family at this point, also due to the sheer number of adoptions we have fewer dogs onsite who are ready to walk with the public. This means there may be a delay in getting a dog for you to walk. We ask for your patience with our team at this time. 

We continue to practise social distancing onsite and have plenty of hand sanitiser ready for your return.
We look forward to seeing familiar faces and welcoming new ones to our shelter and appreciate your ongoing support during these difficult times.

We are in urgent need of Topical Heartworm Treatment(Advocate or Revolution), Breeder’s Choice Cat Litter, cat food, cable ties and latex gloves.

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

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

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

Public Space Tools For All

October 20, 2020

The NSW Government today launched the draft NSW Public Spaces Charter and the draft Evaluation Tool for Public Space and Public Life - two initiatives that will enable more quality public spaces for every community across NSW.

The draft NSW Public Spaces Charter is a resource to support the planning, design, management and activation of public spaces in NSW. The draft Evaluation Tool will help government, councils, industry and communities identify how to deliver more and better quality green, open and public space.

Alex O’Mara, Group Deputy Secretary at the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment, said community input is now sought for the draft Charter and Evaluation Tool.  Both support the Premier’s Priority for Greener Public Spaces, which aims to increase walkable access to quality public space.

“COVID-19 is changing the way we use public space and has shone a light on how vital these places are to support healthy, happy, resilient communities. We want to use everything in our toolbox to consolidate and improve what we have and create more. We’re asking the community to help us design a tool that will allow people to tell us what they like about public spaces and where we can improve”, Ms O’Mara said.

The draft Charter identifies ten principles, developed with evidence-based research and consultation with public space experts, that will guide planning, delivery and management of quality public space. The principles are: open and welcoming; community-focused; culture and creativity; local character and identity; green and resilient; healthy and active; local business and economies; safe and secure; designed for people; and well-managed.

A series of videos will promote the ten principles of the NSW Public Spaces Charter, including one featuring NSW Resilience Commissioner, Shane Fitzsimmons, supporting the ‘green and resilient’ principle.

The draft Evaluation Tool is a simple site survey, developed with an international peer review panel, that anyone can use to evaluate a public space and identify its strengths and areas for improvement. The free download from the Department’s Festival of Place website is the first step to identify how to improve and optimise our public space.

The draft NSW Public Spaces Charter and draft Evaluation Tool will be on public exhibition 20 October – 17 November 2020. All NSW Government agencies will be asked to endorse the final Charter. Local government, industry and groups caring for and using public space across NSW will be encouraged to adopt the principles in their strategies and planning.

The draft NSW Public Spaces Charter and draft Evaluation Tool are components of the year-long Festival of Place.

The draft NSW Public Spaces Charter and draft Evaluation Tool are available at: www.dpie.nsw.gov.au/festival-of-place

Please also join our webinar exploring the draft Evaluation Tool with international placemaking experts on Tuesday 27 October 10.00-11.00 am.  REGISTER HERE


Gap Year 2021: Go Bush!

October 12, 2020
Despite closed international borders, taking an adventure fuelled gap year is still an option.

The Australian Government is investing $33.7 million to support farmers by encouraging and incentivising Australians to take a ‘domestic gap year’, which includes eligible temporary visa holders, to work in the agriculture sector this coming harvest season.

Member for Mackellar, Jason Falinski said this week the agriculture sector across the country is facing unprecedented pressure on labour supply as a result of COVID-19.

“Through the 2020 Budget the Government is investing $17.4 million in relocation support and $16.3 million in temporary Youth Allowance and ABSTUDY eligibility changes to incentivise people to take up seasonal farm work this summer.

“Relocation allowances of up to $6,000 for Australians and up to $2,000 for eligible visa holders will be available from November 1st to undertake seasonal work in agriculture,” Mr Falinski said.

“Under the Youth Allowance and ABSTUDY new criteria, a person who earns $15,000 through employment in the agricultural sector in regional Australia between 30 November 2020 and 31 December 2021 will be considered as independent for the purpose of YA (student) or ABSTUDY.

“This will significantly reduce the time needed for a young person to gain ‘independent’ status and claim Youth Allowance or ABSTUDY faster than under the existing criteria.

“These changes will not only support our agricultural sector, but also offer Beaches school leavers an alternative option for their post high school life.”

From November 1st 2020, relocation assistance will be available to people who relocate to harvest and regional areas to take up at least 6 weeks of agricultural work, including Australians who are not receiving income support and those with the right to work in Australia.

The Australian Government is also investing a further $9 million in the Seasonal Worker Programme (SWP) to ensure employers can meet critical seasonal labour needs.

This funding will help ensure that the SWP has the resources to accommodate the significant growth of the program and ensure appropriate oversight of the program is in place to protect the welfare of workers.

The Australian Government has been working with farmers since the onset of COVID-19. Measures already introduced to fill labour shortages in the agriculture sector:
  • providing visa extensions to allow temporary visa holders already here to continue to work in agriculture and for agriculture workers to stay with one employer for a longer period,
  • initiating a targeted recruitment trial under the Seasonal Worker Programme (SWP) to meet labour needs of Northern Territory mango growers which saw 162 experienced workers arrive from Vanuatu to help with the harvest;
  • announcing on 21 August the recommencement of targeted recruitment under the Pacific Labour Scheme and SWP to help meet the workforce needs of critical sectors, including agriculture.
In addition to the measures already rolled out to date, and announced in the budget, the Federal Government is continuing to look at how it can support our agriculture sector by ensuring they have access to the workers they need now and into the future through the development of the National Agriculture Workforce Strategy.

The Australian Government has also delivered a National Agriculture Workers’ Code to provide for the COVID-safe travel between states – with five of eight Australian jurisdictions having implemented it - except for Queensland, Western Australia and Tasmania.

Remembrance Day 2020

Each year, at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, we pause to pay our respects to all those who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. 

Pleasingly, Remembrance Day Services will still be able to go ahead this year. 

The NSW Government have approved an exemption to allow up to 100 people to gather at community war memorials (with social distancing) to pay their respects.


Grants To Support Local Domestic Violence Projects

October 19, 2020
Domestic Violence Committees across NSW are encouraged to apply for a share of $80,000 in grant funding to support local projects that raise awareness in their communities.

Attorney General and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence Mark Speakman said this year’s Local Domestic and Family Violence Committee Grant program has increased to $1800 per grant.

“COVID-19 has put increased pressure on domestic violence committees, so we want to ensure that there is plenty of support for this year’s events and projects that coincide with the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence next month,” Mr Speakman said.

“The pandemic demonstrated the vital role local communities and local services play in addressing domestic and family violence and ensuring people know how to access help.”

All formally recognised Domestic and Family Violence Committees in NSW are encouraged to submit an application for the grant, which has increased from $1200 to $1800.

Projects could include educating people on the impacts of domestic violence, promoting frontline services and how victims can access them, and engaging local organisations to lead calls for change by rejecting violence and promoting positive behaviour.

“These grants can support numerous projects like engaging men’s organisations, groups or schools to call for leadership on domestic violence and cultural change,” Mr Speakman said.

Committees are comprised of government and non-government organisations in local areas that provide services to those experiencing domestic and family violence. They provide a forum in which to discuss issues and enhance inter-agency support for victim-survivors.

The Local Domestic and Family Violence Committee Grants program launched in 2014. It has previously funded projects like prevention workshops at local schools and businesses, theatre performances and the distribution of flyers promoting local support services.

To apply for a grant visit www.women.nsw.gov.au. Applications are due on 30 October 2020.

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence is a global campaign dedicated to ending gender-based violence that runs from 25 November 2020 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to 10 December 2020 (International Human Rights Day). Visit www.16dayscampaign.org for more information.

Consultation Extended On Draft Gaming Machine Harm Minimisation Laws

Consultation on the NSW Government’s proposed gaming machine harm minimisation laws has been extended to December 11 2020 to allow more time for submissions. 

Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello said that since the release of the draft bill on 25 September there had been significant interest in the reforms from across the community including industry and the NGO sector.

“There is substantial agreement on the objective of enhancing the current self-exclusion scheme and reducing problem gambling in gaming machine venues,” Mr Dominello said.

“The extension of public consultation provides a further opportunity for us to work with pubs and clubs and other stakeholders to find solutions, potentially using technology to meet this objective.

“I am hopeful that we can find an industry-led solution that takes into account the different size, scale and risk profile of the 3,000 pubs and clubs across our state.”

The Gaming Machines Amendment (Gambling Harm Minimisation) Bill 2020 will help registered clubs and hotels to minimise gambling harm and provide additional support to gaming machine players.

Instead of only needing to provide support when someone specifically asks for help, clubs and hotels would need to actively identify and assist gaming machine players who display problematic gambling behaviours.

The proposed changes respond to the need to support gaming machine players experiencing problems and improve the way clubs and hotels can minimise gambling harm as they continue to get back to business.

Some of the changes would include:
  • Venues to have a person on duty that has completed advanced Responsible Conduct of Gambling training and will identify and respond to problematic gambling behaviours (Gambling Contact Officer).
  • A new exclusion scheme in clubs and hotels, so family members can ask venues to ban someone whose problematic gambling behaviours are causing harm to themselves or others.
  • Making it easier for venues to issue and enforce their own exclusion orders.
  • Allowing a person to self-exclude via an online portal.
  • A state-wide exclusion register, so that different exclusion schemes and individual venues can record exclusions in one place.
  • Requiring that venues suspend an excluded person’s player account and membership of any player reward scheme.
  • New and increased penalties.
  • Whistle-blower protections for club and hotel staff who inform Liquor & Gaming NSW or the Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority when a hotel or club breaks harm minimisation rules.
  • Any winnings by people who’ve been excluded or are under 18 will be forfeited to the Responsible Gambling Fund, which funds programs and initiatives to help reduce gambling harm.
The measures proposed in the draft Bill reflect a commitment made by the Government and ClubsNSW in a Memorandum of Understanding signed on 13 October 2018. They also form part of a 2019 election commitment.

To find out more go to the Customer Service website

Join The Conversation On North Head Sanctuary: Survey Closes November 30

The Harbour Trust has invited the community to have a say on a treasured public parkland on Sydney Harbour – North Head Sanctuary in Manly.

The Harbour Trust’s Management Plan for North Head Sanctuary sets the direction for the site. The current Plan was made in 2011 and, through its implementation, the Harbour Trust maintained this loved destination.

What we are doing
We are now in the early stages of refreshing our approach at North Head Sanctuary. We want to know what you think this historically significant site should look and feel like in the future. Your input will help shape how the Management Plan could evolve.

We invite you to explore North Head Sanctuary, reflect on its important First Nations history, immerse in the unique flora and fauna, marvel at its historic buildings and underground tunnels, and give us your valuable input to help shape the site's future.

Have your say
To have your say on North Head Sanctuary, text “Hello Harbour Trust” to 0480 018 889 or complete our online survey. Our online feedback will close on Monday 30 November 2020. We will publish a consultation outcome report shortly after.

PLUS: When you next visit, look out for the yellow signs and follow the instructions to strike up a friendly conversation with objects and landmarks across the site. We’ve brought to life a number of objects so they can share their history and ask you a few questions.

This is the first of many opportunities to share your views with the Harbour Trust. We look forward to continuing the conversation and consulting with the community further in early 2021.


Further details


North Head sanctuary, Manly - photo by Danesk1

Halloween In 2020: NSW Health

If your children are planning on trick or treating this Halloween, there are a few important guidelines to follow to keep the event COVID-19 safe.

Providing levels of community transmission remain low, NSW Health is supportive of Halloween celebrations going ahead – with some caveats:
  • It should be a front-yard event, not a front-door event (keep it outdoors)
  • Instead of communal lolly bowls, consider other ways of distributing treats (eg strewn along the front fence, have hand sanitiser at the front gate)
  • Trick or treat on a household basis (eg a supervising adult and children from the same household), rather than groups of young people together
  • Maintain physical distancing between trick or treating households – don’t all crowd together in a pack
  • Keep it local – put effort into decorating the front yard rather than focusing on well-known “treat streets”
  • Don’t share costume face masks.

Creating Places For People: Public Space Vision And Design Guidelines Open For Comment

Northern Beaches Council is seeking community feedback on a new set of guidelines that will improve the design of public spaces in the Northern Beaches.

The Public Space Vision and Design Guidelines aim to provide consistency in the planning and ‘look and feel’ of public spaces, using the principles of best practice urban design, while also respecting the individual character of our unique centres and villages.

Mayor Michael Regan said the guidelines will simplify the separate sets of rules used by the three separate councils prior to amalgamation.

“Our new urban design guidelines will direct how we complement the unique character and identity of public places in our community,” Cr Regan said.

“Putting people at the centre of all our urban design is fundamental. We want to create public places where people can connect, feel safe and reach a sense of belonging.

“Local character is what makes an area distinctive. It is the interplay of land use and built form, public and private spaces and cultural heritage.”

As well as prioritising spaces for people, the guidelines give precedence to key environmental priorities and focus on trees and water-sensitive designs.

Earlier, limited pre-testing of the guidelines attracted 235 comments from community members – with overall positive feedback.

Six key objectives form the foundation of the guidelines which are derived from state government public domain targets and previous engagement with the community.

The six objectives are:
  • Enhance and protect the bush, beach & water character;
  • Encourage social activation through street design;
  • Inspire healthy and active lifestyles through safe & inclusive footpath & cycleway networks;
  • Implement traffic calming interventions to create safe environments;
  • Integrate water sensitive urban design into streets and open spaces; and
  • Increase canopy cover on streets.
Submissions on the Public Space Vision and Design Guidelines close on 1 November, 2020. Go to Council’s Your Say web page for more details.

Local Scientists Wanted

Organisations and individuals on the Northern Beaches with ideas for exciting National Science Week events for next year are being encouraged to apply for a grant to make their idea a reality. 

Member for Mackellar, Jason Falinski MP said preparations for next year’s annual festival of science are now underway, with grants of up to $20,000 available for those who are ready to inspire Australia’s next generation of big picture thinkers. 

“The idea is to make science fun and accessible to everyone and I urge qualified local people with good ideas to put them forward for grants,” Mr Falinski said. 
“Successful grant applications will mean that you can have a positive impact on your community and set an example for others. Let’s get involved and show what the Northern Beaches can do!”

“This year’s event organisers showed incredible ingenuity in delivering their events online due to COVID-19 restrictions. It was great to see people from all over the country come together to participate in virtual tours, online events and DIY science and citizen science projects.”

National Science Week will run from 14 - 22 August 2021 and is Australia’s largest festival with over a million people participating in thousands of events each year.

Applications for 2021 National Science Week grants are now open, and close on 28 October 2020. 

To apply for a grant, or read the updated grant opportunity guidelines, go to https://www.business.gov.au/nswkg  

To find out more about National Science Week go to www.scienceweek.net.au

Avalon Boomerang Bags Workshop News

New Tuesday workshop times in the Avalon Recreation Centre 11am - 3pm. All are welcome, if you can't sew we will teach you.

Bags and plastic free reusable goodies are for sale during the workshops so please pop in.

Remember there is no excuse for single use plastics, even during wretched COVID19, and washed reusables are best. Do our ocean, waves and beaches a favour and BYO bags, bottles, cups and straws.



2021 Doggie Rescue Calendar

Monika's Doggie Rescue have just opened orders for their 2021 Superheroes calendar.
This is the major fundraising activity for the whole year for this organisation to save all these darling dogs, cats, rabbits (and others) and these wonderful calendars make an excellent Christmas gift that brings delight to those you give it to all year round - for 12 months in fact!

Pittwater Online has already secured ours and no, we will not be handing them over should you miss out - staff and family have already put their hands up, and there will be howling, literally, should anyone find theirs has been 'reallocated'.


 

October 18 - 24, 2020: Issue 470

This Issue: full list in Contents page 

Front Page Issue 470 

Jason 'For The Beaches' Falinski Moves To End Uncertainty Of Oil Or Gas Rigs Off Our Beaches 

Social Stressors Impact On Our Environment: Wallaby Hit On Caleyi Trail By Mountain Bike Rider, Birds Being Killed On Eve Of National Bird Week 2020

NSW's Best Groms Light Up Cronulla: Surfing October 2020

Lime Cordiale - Eight ARIA Nominations For 2020 Awards + Ocean Alley Nominated for Nest Rock Album

Currawong Restoration Update

Festive Season Reimagined: Manly To Avalon Beach 2020 - Council Invites EOI's from musicians

Pictures The Elvina Bay-Lovett Bay Loop by Kevin Murray and Joe Mills 

New Look SAILING Champions League: Asia Pacific 2021 Season by Lisa Ratcliff

Park Bench Philosopher Stampedes, Sharks And Cyclones: Uncovering The Adventures Behind 50 Years Of Coastal Research - ‘Stories from the field: 50 years of coastal fieldwork 1970-2020’ is available to access online for free. 

Profile Maureen Rutlidge

Narrabeen and Elanora Heights legend, 2007 Pittwater Council ‘Volunteer of the Year’ Awardee and 2019 Northern Beaches Council Senior Citizen of the Year at the Australia Day awards, Maureen Rutlidge epitomises 'giving back to your community'. 

For 26 years Maureen has been the coordinator for the ‘Sunday Activities Program for Adults with Special Needs’ at Northern Beaches Creative Leisure and Learning Inc. The Sunday Activities Program offers its members – all adults with special needs – access to art and craft classes, picnics, movies and bus-trips to parks, beaches and museums. Her gift with a pen also comes in handy here as Maureen put together one of the earlier Profiles of the Week run here on that organisation in 2014. The Northern Beaches Creative Leisure & Learning evolved from the Creative Leisure Movement begun in Surry Hills in 1924 - so a 90 year Celebration was in order!

Maureen has also taught scripture in Public Schools for 30 years and received the ‘30-year Certificate’ for their work there by the Catholic Diocese in 2018.

Since 1992, Maureen has volunteered with the Local Studies History collection, (originally at the former Narrabeen Community Learning Centre in the former Narrabeen Girls High School, then from 2000 at Mona Vale Library) and organises local ‘history walks monthly, too. Some of these past invitations to adventures have been part of this news services' Notices.

Maureen is also the lady who authored the 2020 Narrabeen Lakes Amateur Swimming Club History page published here, where her volunteer work as Treasurer is ongoing and she is a Life Member. Her help with images for the complementary running North Narrabeen Rock Pool: Some History of the same Issue helped nail down some details.

The NLASC 2020/2021 Season starts next weekend, with registration currently open for this great family-focussed community swimming club. 

It’s easy to join this club, just come and see them at 1:30pm on any Saturday afternoon between October and April at their beloved rock pool at North Narrabeen. Find out more at: www.nlasc.com.au

How to Register- Due to COVID restrictions, we are only offering online registrations this year: Click to register!

This week a small insight into one of our community's treasures and the many volunteer opportunities available in our area.


Although considered an 'amateur ornithologist' Harry Wolstenholme's observations and notes of birds over several decades actually contributed to the knowledge of Australian birds and their presence in all landscapes - aquatic or shore birds, at forest or tree level, and in the open fields. His 1926 published ''The Official Checklist of the Birds of Australia: With Appendix: Scientific Names-Notes and Pronunciation'' is still a refence work for many, while his membership of the Royal Australasian Ornithologists Union, to which he was a generous benefactor, and a member of its Council, as well as serving as a trustee of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, point to a lifelong passion for our area.

It is important to remember this as residents contribute to the 2020 Australian Back Yard Bird Count - that it is those who live here and regularly photograph or note the return of annual birds along international flyways, as well as observing those that are permanent year-round residents on our shores, in our bush reserves, and in their own back yards, that help those seeking to protect these species. The ongoing work of the Powerful Owl Project, which had its origin in our area, serves as one example, while ANTSO and UNSW scientist Dr Kate Brandis calling for bird feathers to be sent in to collate data on estuarine and wetlands birds, provides another.

The presence or sudden absence of birds in habitats where they once were, and reporting this, is one sure method of ensuring where there is a problem, what is causing the problem, and how that may be addressed. In this we are all custodians and can help look after this years chicks and fledglings to ensure the survival of the gene pools of these birds that live here, in Pittwater.

Under NSW State Law all species of wildlife are protected. In notifying local and state authorities where and when a bird has been put at risk, attacked, or even driven from its home, you provide an opportunity for that birds' others to not experience the same. In looking after all the wildlife that makes an environment healthy, we are not only ensuring the survival of species, including our own, we are staking a claim for yet to be born generations getting to experience first-hand the wonders we are now enriched by.

For the 2020 Aussie Back Yard Bird Count (October 19-25) and National Bird Week 2020 insight into local birds and those who worked to protect them, simply through celebrating them, another local connection in Palm Beach resident, and one of the original Directors of the Barranjoey Land Company, the first-born son of Maybanke Selfe-Wolstenholme-Anderson features this year.

Environment Aussie Back Yard Bird Count 2020, Watch Out On The Pittwater Estuary Water Zones & Beaches: Seals Are About, Katandra Season 2020: until October 25th, Bushcare In Pittwater, New Bag Limit For Cockle Collection From October 14, New Signage At Long Reef Aquatic Reserve, Water Research Laboratory Mushrooms!, Central Coast Recycling Company Fined $15,000 For Environmental Breach, Central Coast Vales Point Power Station Fined $30,000 For Pollution And Waste Offences, Vales Point Cops Fine For Pollution One Week After Getting $8.7m Federal Government Grant, Analysis: The truth about the NSW Koala SEPP - NSW EDO,  Act Now On Wildfires, Global Climate Change, And Human Health; New Australian Study Says, NSW Valley A 'Natural Laboratory' To Test Carbon Sequestration Theory, Plastics Threat To South Pacific Seabirds Confirmed, 'Critical' Status For Billion-Dollar Regional Pumped Hydro Project: Oven Mountain, Cameras Capture Parmas Pottering Post Fire In Gibraltar Range National Park, Spring Nesting Flow For Drought-Hit Murray Cod In The Macquarie River, NSW Government Finalises Koala SEPP, Australian Academy Fellows Say It’s Time To Establish An Independent Biodiversity Agency In Australia, ‘Devastating’: The Morrison government cuts uni funding for environment courses by almost 30%, Can a mining state be pro-heritage?; Vital steps to avoid another Juukan Gorge, Tick Population Booming In Our Area, Shorebird Identification Booklet: free to download, Pittwater Reserves, Community Gardens and Environment Groups, Pittwater Reserves++

Inbox News Cancer-Killing T Cells 'Swarm' To Tumours; Attracting Others To The Fight, People Can Do More Than Use Less Plastic To Help Save The Great Barrier Reef, Computational Approach To Optimise Culture Conditions Required For Cell Therapy, The Black Hole Always Chirps Twice: New Clues Deciphering The Shape Of Black Holes, Which Is More Creative; The Arts Or The Sciences?

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: October 11, 2020

Click on Logo to access latest PON:  

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Furore Erupts Over Bus Route Changes

In 2019 the State Government announced it would be privatising the North Shore public bus services, with tenders closing on September 30, 2020 and the new operators expected to commence providing services from early next year. 

On October 9th 2020 a further announcement was made regarding bus route changes that would commence from December 20th, 2020. Community reaction to the announced changes has been met with an unfavourable backlash, petitions regarding saving specific routes, and appeals from residents from Mosman to Palm Beach to save certain routes.

Residents state the changes are based on data collected during Covid-19 ‘lockdowns’, with discouragements to use public transport, are not a true reflection of usage. Some claim the dispensing of some services is to suit whoever has been awarded the Tender.

The loss of a direct express service to the city is that causing distress in Pittwater. Those living at Palm Beach, Bilgola Plateau or Clareville will now face 3 x bus changes to get to town, and a 2-3 hour commute just one way.

Petition 1  - Petition 2 - Petition 3

At Balgowlah and Seaforth residents state they are already adjusting to earlier changes, which then required them to change buses twice, adding time to an already lengthy commute, which will now change to having to catch three buses one way, as well, and same again on the home journey, and turn a 2 hour commute to at least 2 ½ hours or longer – if the buses connect. That will be approximately 30 hours spent each week in commuting. 

''The 36 hour week campaign commenced in the early 2000's, the campaign for the 30 hour weekly commute is proposed for 2020'' one wit stated.

In 2016 the Greater Sydney Commission released its vision for Sydney, with a focus on being '20 minutes from home' for work. That 'vision' may have to go for residents from Manly to Palm Beach. 

However, Palm Beach did not have a direct public transport service to Wynyard until October 1938. Prior to that the Pittwater Motor Company, privately owned and operated, commenced a few runs in 1922 - to Manly. 

Getting to uni or school on time, or to work in the city, meant a 1 1/2 to 2 hour bus trip or living outside of the area and closer to your weekday commitments. 

And that's where parents and workers state they are again today after December 20, 2020 - more next Issue.

The other 'hot' topic this week is Manly ferries - see below:

Freshwater Class Ferries Statement From MP For Manly

October 12 2020: James Griffin MP, Member for Manly

To be very clear, as I’ve said before - on my watch, there WILL continue to be a place for our iconic Freshwater-class ferries, servicing the world famous route between Manly and Circular Quay. 

I welcome the Minister’s comments and his preference to maintain and keep at least one of the vessels on the Harbour servicing Manly. 

Manly and its iconic ferry service to Circular Quay are one and the same. That won’t change whilst I’m the Member for Manly.

FULL STATEMENT ON FRESHWATER-CLASS FERRIES: 

Manly and its iconic ferry service to Circular Quay are one and the same. That won’t change whilst I’m the Member for Manly.

On my watch, there will continue to be a place for our iconic Freshwater-class ferries, servicing the world famous route between Manly and Circular Quay.

I reiterate my comments to the ferry operator and Government that any changes will need to be embraced by my community and be a win both for commuters and the community. This includes a role for our iconic Freshwater-class ferries.

Increasing choice, frequency, speed and reliability for Manly’s commuters is vital. We will continue to invest in Manly’s transport infrastructure and services whether it be upgraded wharves, the B-Line, ferries, road infrastructure or Park&Ride commuter car parks.

Transport for NSW will continue to consider what role the Freshwater-class fleet will play alongside the new Emerald-class vessels.


Huge Increase In Unemployment In Pittwater Between March To June 2020

Analysis of social services payments has revealed a huge jump in unemployment in Pittwater our area compared with pre-pandemic levels.

The usual economic data the Government uses to track unemployment, such as today's ABS update on the official labour force figures, does not paint the full picture of unemployment in the current COVID-19 recession as figures include residents who are technically employed but on zero hours, or people who had been "stood down".

Pittwater is not alone in seeing a surge in people receiving a JobSeeker payment as Manly, renowned for its Hospitality industry, has also shown a surge in people effectively looking for work.

In September 2020 Mackellar MP Jason Falisnki stated that 54,654 Economic Support Payments had been made to residents of Mackellar, or almost $40,990,500. Warringah had 37,950 payments received, equalling $28,462,500. The two $750 payments were paid automatically to people who were eligible in March and April, and again in July 2020.

As at June 3rd 2020, in the electorate of Mackellar, around an estimated 8200 organisations were on JobKeeper. In the electorate of Warringah, there were an estimated 7900 organisations on JobKeeper.

From September 28th until January 3rd next year, the two payments have been modified to $1,200 and $750 per fortnight, with the lower payment for employees who worked less than 20 hours a week in the month of February pre-COVID-19.

From January 4th to March 28th next year, the two payments will be $1,000 and $650.

The temporary Coronavirus Supplement for those on income support has also been extended until December 31st 2020.  

The DSS Payment Demographic Data currently available (JobSeeker Payment) by postcode for 2020:
2101 - March Qtr.: 178   June Qtr.:  660
2102 - March Qtr.: 47     June Qtr.:  206
2103 - March Qtr.: 56     June Qtr.:  299
2104 - March Qtr.: 26     June Qtr.:  110
2105 - March Qtr.: 24     June Qtr.:    77
2106 - March Qtr.: 87     June Qtr.:  353
2107 - March Qtr.: 95     June Qtr.:  519
2108 - March Qtr.: 6       June Qtr.:    96
Total                     519                  2320

Manly 2095 - March 2020: 134 - June 2020: 572

Youth Allowance (other) by postcode:
2101 March Qtr.:  10   June Qtr.: 61
2102 March Qtr.:  <5   June Qtr.: 20
2103 March Qtr.:  <5   June Qtr.: 34
2104 March Qtr.:   0    June Qtr.: <5
2105 March Qtr.:  <5   June Qtr.: <5
2106 March Qtr.:  6     June Qtr.: 24
2107 March Qtr.:  <5   June Qtr.: 40
2108 March Qtr.:   0    June Qtr.:   8

Youth Allowance (student and apprentice) by postcode:
2101 - March Qtr.: 47   June Qtr.:  86
2102 - March Qtr.:  13  June Qtr.:  43
2103 - March Qtr.:  33  June Qtr.:  49
2104 - March Qtr.: 7     June Qtr.:  10
2105 - March Qtr.:  <5  June Qtr.:    7
2106 - March Qtr.:  28  June Qtr.:  46
2107 - March Qtr.: 41   June Qtr.:  79
2108 - March Qtr.:  <5  June Qtr.:    6

The ABS 'Rise in Jobless Families during the COVID period' (published Friday, October 16, 2020) is available at: www.abs.gov.au/statistics/labour/employment-and-unemployment/labour-force

The JobSeeker Payment occurs every 2 weeks. The maximum fortnightly payment until December 31st 2020 is $815.70 includes:  $565.70 JobSeeker Payment + $250 Coronavirus Supplement for singles with no children and ranges up to $760.80 each for partnered peoples with $510.80 JobSeeker Payment + $250 Coronavirus Supplement included.

The Average Weekly Earnings as of May 2020 (ABS) was:
  • Full-time adult average weekly earnings increased by 4.8% to $1,713.90.
  • Male average weekly earnings: $1,958.30 (public), and $1,780.70 (private).
  • Female average weekly earnings: $1,751.30 (public), and $1,469.10 (private).
  • The mining industry had the highest average weekly earnings at $2,697.50. 
All this underlines that many residents are doing it tough at present and a small smile and a bit of care when dealing with each other will go a long way. 

Gap Year 2021: Go Bush!

October 12, 2020
Despite closed international borders, taking an adventure fuelled gap year is still an option.

The Australian Government is investing $33.7 million to support farmers by encouraging and incentivising Australians to take a ‘domestic gap year’, which includes eligible temporary visa holders, to work in the agriculture sector this coming harvest season.

Member for Mackellar, Jason Falinski said this week the agriculture sector across the country is facing unprecedented pressure on labour supply as a result of COVID-19.

“Through the 2020 Budget the Government is investing $17.4 million in relocation support and $16.3 million in temporary Youth Allowance and ABSTUDY eligibility changes to incentivise people to take up seasonal farm work this summer.

“Relocation allowances of up to $6,000 for Australians and up to $2,000 for eligible visa holders will be available from November 1st to undertake seasonal work in agriculture,” Mr Falinski said.

“Under the Youth Allowance and ABSTUDY new criteria, a person who earns $15,000 through employment in the agricultural sector in regional Australia between 30 November 2020 and 31 December 2021 will be considered as independent for the purpose of YA (student) or ABSTUDY.

“This will significantly reduce the time needed for a young person to gain ‘independent’ status and claim Youth Allowance or ABSTUDY faster than under the existing criteria.

“These changes will not only support our agricultural sector, but also offer Beaches school leavers an alternative option for their post high school life.”

From November 1st 2020, relocation assistance will be available to people who relocate to harvest and regional areas to take up at least 6 weeks of agricultural work, including Australians who are not receiving income support and those with the right to work in Australia.

The Australian Government is also investing a further $9 million in the Seasonal Worker Programme (SWP) to ensure employers can meet critical seasonal labour needs.

This funding will help ensure that the SWP has the resources to accommodate the significant growth of the program and ensure appropriate oversight of the program is in place to protect the welfare of workers.

The Australian Government has been working with farmers since the onset of COVID-19. Measures already introduced to fill labour shortages in the agriculture sector:
  • providing visa extensions to allow temporary visa holders already here to continue to work in agriculture and for agriculture workers to stay with one employer for a longer period,
  • initiating a targeted recruitment trial under the Seasonal Worker Programme (SWP) to meet labour needs of Northern Territory mango growers which saw 162 experienced workers arrive from Vanuatu to help with the harvest;
  • announcing on 21 August the recommencement of targeted recruitment under the Pacific Labour Scheme and SWP to help meet the workforce needs of critical sectors, including agriculture.
In addition to the measures already rolled out to date, and announced in the budget, the Federal Government is continuing to look at how it can support our agriculture sector by ensuring they have access to the workers they need now and into the future through the development of the National Agriculture Workforce Strategy.

The Australian Government has also delivered a National Agriculture Workers’ Code to provide for the COVID-safe travel between states – with five of eight Australian jurisdictions having implemented it - except for Queensland, Western Australia and Tasmania.

Remembrance Day 2020

Each year, at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, we pause to pay our respects to all those who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. 

Pleasingly, Remembrance Day Services will still be able to go ahead this year. 

The NSW Government have approved an exemption to allow up to 100 people to gather at community war memorials (with social distancing) to pay their respects.


Tradies Alert: Thieves 

Northern Beaches Police Area Command advise there have been a number of instances in recent days, particularly at the northern end of the Peninsular, of thieves targeting tradies' utes and vans.

In the most recent cases, tools have been taken from a ute and van parked overnight on the Monday of this week at Avalon Beach and Narrabeen, while at Warriewood, someone's stolen an orange and black excavator from a work site on Warriewood Road.

When possible, park your vehicle on your driveway or under a streetlight. Motion activated lighting can help around the home, as can double padlocking any tool chests.

This week Pittwater Online was able to get a first-hand demonstration of a Dog Bark car horn (very impressive; 3 x dogs being pretty upset) and there are dog-bark alarms on the market that are triggered by trespassers - another deterrent to look into for those interested in thwarting thieves without losing sleep. 

Investigations Continue Into Break-In At Palm Beach

Tuesday, 13 October 2020 
Investigations are continuing following a break and enter on the Northern Beaches at the weekend.
Between 8pm on Friday 9 October 2020 and 7am on Saturday 10 October 2020, police have been told that a home in Ralston Road, Palm Beach, was broken into while the owners were sleeping.

A cash box, iPad, computer, several hard drives, a drone and computer equipment were stolen.

Officers from Northern Beaches Police Area Command were notified and commenced an investigation.
Police have been told the material on the hard drive is of significant value to the owner.
As inquiries continue, any witnesses or anyone with information is urged to come forward.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Detained Against Her Will

Late Tuesday night, police responded to callers reporting concern for the welfare of a woman in a car park at Newport.

They stopped a car containing a man and woman one suburb down at Mona Vale.

Officers were told they were known to each other; that the woman had been detained against her will after getting off a bus and that her clothes had been ripped as she twice tried to leave.

Both were taken to Manly police station where the woman was interviewed.

A 19-year old man now has been charged with two counts of detain for advantage and one of DV-related intimidation.

He’s been refused bail pending an appearance at court.

Coercive Control Reform

October 13, 2020

Domestic violence victim-survivors, frontline services, legal experts, law enforcement, academics and the community will soon have the opportunity to share their views on whether to criminalise coercive control in NSW.

Attorney General and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence Mark Speakman said the NSW Government would move this week to establish a Parliamentary Joint Select Committee that will hold a public inquiry to examine coercive control in detail.

The NSW Government is also issuing a comprehensive Discussion Paper today detailing key issues. The Inquiry can also use this as a guide to help inform consideration of this complex topic.

Mr Speakman encouraged all interested parties to review the Discussion Paper, should they wish to contribute to the Inquiry in the near future.

“The horrific rate of domestic violence murders in Australia remains stubbornly consistent and coercive and controlling behaviour is a common precursor to intimate partner homicide,” Mr Speakman said.

“Creating a coercive control offence would be a complex though potentially very worthwhile reform that could help prevent these homicides.

“Thorough research, consultation and careful consideration is crucial to avoid risks such as misidentifying victims as offenders or capturing behaviour that ought not to be criminalised.”

Coercive control is a form of domestic abuse involving repeated patterns of abusive behaviour – which can include physical, sexual, psychological, emotional or financial abuse – the cumulative effect of which is to rob victim-survivors of their autonomy and independence.

“The impact of this abuse is abhorrent, but the appropriate response to this behaviour remains an ongoing challenge for law enforcement and legal minds alike,” Mr Speakman said.

“Adapting from an incident-based model of investigation and prosecution to that of a course of conduct would be a significant change to the way our justice system broadly operates.

“A new offence may not be the best, or only, way to improve our response to non-physical forms of domestic abuse.”

The Government’s Discussion Paper highlights numerous key issues, including:

  • what coercive control is and how it should be defined;
  • how coercive and controlling behaviours are currently addressed in NSW;
  • experiences of other jurisdictions in responding to coercive control;
  • how evidence of coercive control is currently considered in NSW legal proceedings;
  • potential benefits and practical challenges associated with criminalising coercive control;
  • possible elements of an offence of coercive control;
  • other avenues for legislative reform; and
  • non-legislative issues like education and community awareness.

To read the full Discussion Paper, visit: http://www.crimeprevention.nsw.gov.au/domesticviolence/Pages/coercive-control-discussion-paper.aspx

Further updates on the Parliamentary Inquiry will be available in the coming weeks, including details on how to make a submission.

For confidential advice, support and referrals related to domestic and family violence, contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732), the NSW Domestic Violence Line (1800 65 64 63) or the Men's Referral Service (1300 766 491).

A PDF of where people can seek help is at the base of this page.

New Shared Paths For Newport And Mona Vale

The NSW Government will provide more than $1 million in grants to assist the Northern Beaches Council deliver around 2.5 kilometres of shared pathways.

Manly MP James Griffin, Pittwater MP Rob Stokes and Davidson MP Jonathan O’Dea said the funding will help Council build important sections of shared paths that will make it easier for cyclists and pedestrians to move around their local area.

More than 600 metres of shared path will be built along Barrenjoey Road connecting Mona Vale and the B-Line interchange with the existing shared path network.

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes said a 270 metre shared path along eastern and northern edge of Trafalgar Park in Newport will be built to provide a direct connection from the Gladstone Street shared path to Newport Public School.

“Our community loves the outdoors and it’s great to see funding for these upgraded links in our active transport network,” Mr Stokes said.

“The grants will help to deliver 750 metres of shared path from Queenscliff to Freshwater which will connect to the existing cycleway that leads to the Manly Wharf and town centre,” Mr Griffin said.

“Another 480 metre shared path will be delivered adjacent to Allambie and Rodborough roads in Frenchs Forest, which will form part of the active transport link between Manly and Frenchs Forest.”

Member for Davidson Jonathan O’Dea gave the funding an enthusiastic endorsement. More than 400 metres of shared path through Wingara Reserve will connect the Glen Street community precinct to northern Belrose.

“The new shared path at the Wingara Reserve ticks all the boxes for sustainability, healthy activity and community connection and enhances the revitalization of the area around Glen St and the Lionel Watts Regional Sporting Facility,” Mr O’Dea said.

The creation of these shared pathways is part of an investment of around $710 million in walking and cycling infrastructure over the next four years that will bring the NSW Government’s total investment to almost $1.1 billion – the largest in the State’s history.

“The NSW Government continues to encourage people to walk and cycle as part of their everyday commute, promoting an active and healthy lifestyle while also helping to relieve congestion on the roads and public transport,” said Minister for Transport and Roads, Andrew Constance.

Further information about the projects will be available from Council as work progresses.


Trafalgar Park Newport - AJG photo

Newport Residents Association October Meeting 

Our next meeting is Tuesday evening 20th October 2020  7.00 pm Activity Room 1, Newport Community Centre, The Boulevard, Newport.

Safe distance rules will apply at the meeting.

Our AGM is usually held prior to the July ordinary meeting but due to the Covid-19 restrictions with regard to numbers we have postponed the 2020 AGM until November 2020.

To update yourself on Newport matters please visit our website: newport.org.au

Mona Vale Road East Upgrade – Temporary Closure Of Foley Street At Mona Vale Road From Monday 19 October

The NSW Government is investing $140 million to upgrade Mona Vale Road between Manor Road, Ingleside, and Foley Street, Mona Vale, from two to four lanes to improve safety and traffic efficiency.

Work is progressing on the eastern end of the Mona Vale Road East upgrade between the Mona Vale Cemetery and Foley Street. To continue this work, Foley Street will be closed at Mona Vale Road from Monday 19 October to Thursday 29 October from 9am to 4pm Monday to Friday, weather permitting.

We will close Foley Street at Mona Vale Road each day during this period while we dig across Foley Street to install underground electrical cables and install new overhead power cables.

Traffic changes

Traffic detours via Ponderosa Parade will be in place as per the map below. Access for Foley Street residents will be via Jubilee Avenue, Warriewood Road or Vineyard Street. Traffic controllers will be on site to direct motorists and pedestrians safely past our work zone and assist residents in and out of their driveways. Access to Pittwater RSL will be from Jubilee Avenue.

Please allow extra travel time, follow displayed speed limits and the direction of traffic controllers and signs.

How will the work affect you?

There may be some increased noise each day however we will minimise noise where possible and ensure we turn off equipment and vehicles when not in use.

The upgrade of the Foley Street and Mona Vale Road intersection will occur in stages. The first stage includes widening the intersection and building a new footpath. We will write to you again before starting the next stage of work.

Pedestrians and bus passengers

The affected bus stops on Foley Street (shown below) will be closed during the work from 9am to 4pm.

Alternative bus stops are located further to the south on Warriewood Road or on Mona Vale Road. Signs will be in place to direct bus passengers and other pedestrians.

Contact

We are committed to minimising the impact of construction on the community and will continue to keep you informed. If you have any questions, please contact our delivery contractor Georgiou Group.

Thank you for your patience during this important work. 

Mona Vale Road East Upgrade Out Of Hours Work: To October 30

Out of hours work is planned from 8pm to 6am on the below dates, weather permitting. If work is delayed due to wet weather, we will try and work a different night that same week. We will notify highly impacted residents if there is a change of date.

Work along the eastern end of the project (from Mona Vale Cemetery to Foley Street, will occur on:

  • Tuesday 20, Thursday 22 and Friday 23 October
  • Tuesday 27, Thursday 28 and Friday 29 October

Our work includes:

  • digging trenches along Samuel Street from the Mona Vale Road/Ponderosa Parade roundabout to Fazzolari Avenue
  • removing of asphalt at the Mona Vale Road/Ponderosa Parade roundabout
  • installing/moving of barriers along the section of road from the roundabout to Foley Street
  • ongoing road maintenance.

(Refer to Mona Vale Road East Upgrade map below)

Work along the western end of the project (from Manor Road to Mona Vale Cemetery) will occur on:

  • Monday 19, Tuesday 20, Thursday 22 and Friday 23 October
  • Monday 26, Tuesday 27, Thursday 28 and Friday 29 October

Our work includes:

  • removing rock from the existing rock cuttings near the end of Laurel Road ( cut 3), Lane Cove Road (cut 4) and Walana Crescent (cut 5)
  • excavating and constructing stormwater drainage in the area east of the site compound 
  • hauling material away from our work zones at cut 3, 4, and 5 to the Western Early Works site
  • ongoing road maintenance.

(Refer to Mona Vale Road East Upgrade map below)

Work at our Western Early Work site off Tumburra Street, Ingleside includes:

  • tipping spoil collected from the western end work sites and then spreading and compacting it in this area
  • removing rock from the cutting next to Mona Vale Road.

(Refer to Western Early Work map below)

During our night work we will use excavators with rock hammers, large bulldozers, backhoes, tipper trucks, elevated work platforms, a roller, a paver, a profiler, street sweepers, vacuum trucks, light vehicles and lighting towers.

The Environment Protection Agency has approved a trial of increased night work, to four nights a week, over a six week period for the western end of the project. This is necessary to remove the remaining rock along Mona Vale Road. The trial began on Monday 12 October.

We will contact highly and moderately impacted residents during the trial to seek your feedback and agreement for the four nights per week to continue beyond the six week trial.

For more information call us on 1800 413 640, email monavaleroad@georgiou.com.au or visit rms.work/mvreast.

If you need help understanding this information, please contact the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450.

Mums For Mums Xmas 2020 Fundraiser

These ‘Gingerbread Folk’ gingerbread house kits are a wonderfully festive family activity, and come in three varieties – Original, Gluten Free, and Chocolate, complete with lollies to decorate!

Assembled house approx 16cm (h) x 15cm (w) x 12cm (d)

packaging dimensions 20cm (h) x 27.5cm (w) x 4.7cm (d)

  • Made in Australia
  • Vegan
  • Nut free
  • Palm oil free
  • No added colours or flavours
  • No added preservatives
  • Compostable wrapper
  • Kosher

Order your kits with us between now and FRIDAY NOVEMBER 20th. Pick up locally from the Newport Rugby Club House on SUNDAY DECEMBER 6th between 10 am and 2 pm.

Order at: www.mumsformums.org.au/christmas-gingerbread-houses

Inflatable Lifejacket Self-Service Clinics In October 2020

Inflatable lifejackets are easy to wear and comfortable but they require extra care and attention to ensure they will inflate in an emergency.

Did you know?
  • In NSW it is a legal requirement to service inflatable lifejackets every year or in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.
  • Most inflatable lifejackets can be self-serviced, depending on the manufacturer's guidelines
  • Penalties may apply if your lifejacket is found to not have been serviced as required.
The lifejacket self-service clinics follow the successful Old4New mobile lifejacket program - a five year program that focused on lifejacket wear, and sold more than 25,700 lifejackets to the boating community, including 17,550 automatic inflatable lifejackets at locations across NSW.

Transport for NSW's compliance data suggests some recreational boaters are not aware of the legislative requirements for maintain self-inflating lifejackets, or that some forget to carry out the simple routine checks and maintenance schedules specified by the lifejacket manufacturers.

The program is part of the NSW Government's 'Wear a Lifejacket' campaign, and is aligned with the Maritime Safety Plan.

Lifejacket self-service clinics
Transport for NSW Boating Education Officers conduct free inflatable lifejacket self-service clinics along NSW coastal areas, lakes and rivers. The clinics aim to promote over awareness of inflatable lifejacket servicing requirements, and provide step-by-step instruction on the self-servicing process.

Due to concerns over the spread of COVID-19, face to face inflatable lifejacket self-service clinics have been postponed for the remainder of 2020 to ensure the health and safety of our staff and the community. As an alternative, Transport for NSW will be hosting online live stream inflatable lifejacket self-service clinics in October 2020.

A list of upcoming inflatable lifejacket self-service clinics can be found in the registration section below.

Register for a lifejacket clinic
Date   Time    Event    Registration

Wednesday 21st October 2020: 19:00 – 20:00 -  Inflatable Lifejacket Self-Service Clinic Livestream

Registered participant benefits
Registered participants are eligible to receive free replacement parts for their inflatable lifejacket, or a $15 voucher that can be used towards the purchase of an inflatable lifejacket or self-service parts at a participating retail partner store. For here that is The Life Aquatic - Mona Vale


2021 Road Safety Calendar ‘Best Of’ Collection

An eye-catching reminder of road rules for the family or workplace, the 2021 Road Safety Calendar features a ‘best of’ collection bringing together some of the best road safety messages from the past four calendars. 

Catchy slogans, vintage poster art, and interesting facts highlight a road safety message each month in a fun and engaging way. The calendar is available free to all northern Sydney residents by contacting your local council or picking up from various community locations. 

The calendar year begins in January with a reminder on driveway safety and ends with a December specials pub menu, listing options for a night out in the festive season. Other topics include driving safely in school zones, the importance of driving to the conditions, being a courteous road user and sharing the road safely with all road users. 

The calendar is an important reminder for all drivers, riders, cyclists and pedestrians alike, and has been delivered to residents since 2001 with the aim of educating and encouraging positive behaviour for all road users, across all ages.

The 2021 Road Safety Calendar is a collaboration between six northern Sydney councils: North Sydney, Hornsby, Ku-ring-gai, Lane Cove, Northern Beaches and City of Ryde. Please contact your local council for a copy of the calendar. 


Council 2019-2020 Annual Financial Statements: Have Your Say

In accordance with Section 418 (3) of the Local Government Act 1993, Northern Beaches Council advises that the Ordinary Council Meeting to be held on Tuesday 27 October 2020 will include the presentation of the audited Financial Statements and the Auditor’s Reports for the financial year ended 30 June 2020.

In accordance with Section 420 of the Local Government Act 1993, any person may make a submission in writing to Council with respect to Council’s Audited Financial Statements or the Auditor’s Reports.

Share your feedback today by:

For more information please contact Renae Wilde, Team Leader Financial Accounting, on 1300 434 434.

Comments Opened Friday October 16, 2020

Comments close Tuesday November 3rd, 2020

Visit: https://yoursay.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/2019-2020-annual-financial-statements

Proposed Minor Amendments To Flood Prone Land Planning Requirements

Council is currently seeking feedback regarding the Flood Prone Land Clause within the Development Control Plan (DCP), which describes the planning requirements for flood prone land.

The 'Have Your Say' page states;

A recent review of the clause has identified an opportunity to simplify the text and incorporate associated standards and policies into the single DCP clause.

The proposed amendments will clarify how we manage development and risk on flood prone land in the Northern Beaches and create a 'one-stop-shop' for applicants.

They do not affect the number of flood prone properties or change the severity of the controls, and they do not change the type of information required to be submitted with Development Applications.

At its meeting on 29 September 2020, Council resolved to publicly exhibit minor amendments to the flood prone land planning requirements.

View the proposed amended clause, along with the existing clause and the summary of the changes. You can also download these below. For further info, you can read the Council Report and FAQs - also on the page linked to below.

Submissions close November 9, 2020

Visit: https://yoursay.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/amendment-flood-prone-land-dcp-clause


Belrose: Proposed Junior Bike Skills Area

Council have developed a concept plan for a Wyatt Avenue, Belrose reserve, directly adjacent to the school. They want to ensure the reserve is used and enjoyed by the local community.

With the growth of cycling on the Northern Beaches, we're seeking to provide opportunities for young local riders to develop their skills and confidence.

The plan includes a junior bike trail loop, an informal grassed open space for practicing bike skills (e.g. bunny hop), a seating/picnic area, an accessible entry path loop and other landscape elements.

View the concept plan and let Council know what you think in the comment form here.

Feedback received will help finalise the plan before construction begins later this year. If you have any questions, please contact the Senior Asset Management Officer by email or on 1300 434 434.

Comments close Monday 9 November 2020.

Soibada Update

Friends of Soibada and the community in the village want to say thank you! 

Don’t forget, please share our crowdfunding campaign to as many people as you can. We are about half way to our target and you can see in this video what a difference your generosity is making!
Crowdfunding page: https://bit.ly/3gfsAcd


Sydney To Hobart 2020: Two Weeks Until Entries Close

October 15, 2020

The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) continues planning for the 2020 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race.

The CYCA is committed to conducting a COVIDSafe Rolex Sydney Hobart for all stakeholders including competitors, spectators, volunteers, officials and staff. To this end, the Club has been working for many months with authorities including the New South Wales and Tasmanian Governments in the shared goal of conducting our great race.

Our aim is to bring Australia and those watching around the world the amazing spectacle that is our annual blue water classic safely. Fans should expect a number of changes to be made to the shore-side aspect of the race.

With just two weeks to go until entries close on Thursday 29 October, the CYCA reminds owners to enter the 76th Rolex Sydney Hobart. This year will mark 75 years of women in the great race, and we look forward to celebrating this exceptional milestone with you.

For more information and the latest news, visit www.rolexsydneyhobart.com.

Access Library Anywhere: New App

Council has released a new Library app to allow members streamlined contactless borrowing, catalogue searches and information about library events and news.

The app has everything together in one mobile-friendly location to make accessing the library now safer and easier than ever before.

Mayor Michael Regan said Council is always looking for new and innovative ways to make the library experience even better for members.

“We’re always looking for ways to improve and adapt to provide the best experience for our community.

“Earlier this year, our library service moved quickly during the COVID-19 pandemic to deliver Library2U, a home delivery service ensuring our community could still access and enjoy the library during challenging times.

“This innovative app is another way we’re improving members’ experience.

“Search our collection, manage your account, store multiple cards and use it to borrow when you’re in the branch using only your device. Not only will you never need to remember to bring your card again, you’ll be safer with using this contactless transaction.”

Using your new library app, you can:

  • Manage your account
  • Store your library card and link your family's cards
  • Borrow books in-branch with only your smartphone
  • View your loans and reservations or renew your items
  • Scan the barcode of any book (like one you see in a bookstore) to see if you can borrow it from your library
  • Suggest a purchase if the book is not in the library
  • Search the collection and place a reservation
  • Browse for easy access to the eLibrary and eReosurces
  • Check out what's on at your nearest branch.

Search for Northern Beaches Library Service in the App Store or Google Play store and download it for free. 

DoggieRescue.com

Pets Of The Week

Ethan


AGE/SEX: 12 months / M
BREED: Ridgeback X Whippet?

Ethan is a bright active happy boy. He walks well on loose lead but he is strong. He is social with other dogs his size. He has a smooth coat and weighs 29.9kg. 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. 

Libby And Sabrina

Libby and Sabrina are a bonded pair of cats who want to stay together. They are sweet, friendly and are looking for a quiet home where they can relax and unwind. Sabrina is black and Libby is calico. They come up for pats and leg rubs. Sabrina loves to come and have a chat too.


Both girls are approximately 9 years old and we think they might be sisters. Vision in Libby's left eye is limited from what appears to be a long standing condition.

She comes desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV/FeLV tested and microchipped. Their adoption fee together is $440. If you are interested in meeting them, call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email cats@DoggieRescue.com. 

DOG WALKING is recommencing
DoggieRescue is delighted to announce restrictions have been lifted on walking at our shelter, we are looking forward to welcoming you back onsite. 

We have had some changes occur during COVID-19 that we want you to be aware of. We no longer require you to sign up in advance for dog walking. However, due to the large number of successful adoptions we have very few child friendly dogs available to walk so we may not be able to accommodate walking for your family at this point, also due to the sheer number of adoptions we have fewer dogs onsite who are ready to walk with the public. This means there may be a delay in getting a dog for you to walk. We ask for your patience with our team at this time. 

We continue to practise social distancing onsite and have plenty of hand sanitiser ready for your return.
We look forward to seeing familiar faces and welcoming new ones to our shelter and appreciate your ongoing support during these difficult times.

We are in urgent need of Topical Heartworm Treatment(Advocate or Revolution), Breeder’s Choice Cat Litter, cat food, cable ties and latex gloves.

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

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

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

Central Coast Council Focussed On A Recovery Action Plan To Curb Deficit 

October 13, 2020
Central Coast Council has, following a year of natural disasters and the impact of COVID-19, undertaken a review of the Council's budget which reveals that its budgetary position has deteriorated since the March 2020 result. The deficit reported at that time of $41 million is now expected to increase to $89 million. The Council has advised the Office of Local Government of the financial issues and is finalising a 100-Day Action Plan to financial recovery.  

The Central Coast  Council resolved at its Council Meeting on October 12th 2020 to continue to focus on the finalisation of its 100-Day Action Plan to financial recovery, seek further assistance from the State Government and establish a Finance Committee.

Mayor Lisa Matthews said Councillors have requested the Acting CEO to write to the Minister for Local Government seeking urgent assistance with a number of matters.

“Council has been in daily contact with the Office of Local Government and we expect the arrival in the coming days of a financial expert and Human Resources adviser, as outlined by the Minister for Local Government last week,” said Mayor Lisa Matthews.

“We are also seeking from the Minister for Local Government urgent assistance to advise on a number of matters.”

These matters are:
  • Advise on the process for obtaining and seek approval to borrow from restricted funds including the Developer contributions under the EP&A Act, the Developer servicing plan contributions under the Water Management Act, Domestic Waste management funds and unrestricted cash within the water and sewer funds comprising income from user and service charges. 
  • Secure necessary external borrowing up to $100 million from TCorp, or any other emergency funding sources for the purposes of maintaining liquidity in the Council until such time as the actions within the draft 100 day recovery action plan are implemented.
  • Confirmation on the timing, scope and terms of reference for the previously committed financial and human resources advisors
The Council also resolved that should the Minster for Local Government not be able to assist in securing borrowing through TCorp, that Council authorise the CEO to present a loan proposal for its consideration at a future meeting on Council for the sum of up to $100 million.

“A forensic audit of Council’s finances will be undertaken and Council will continue to seek additional support and advice from the Office of Local Government during this period of transition,” said Mayor Lisa Matthews.

“Additionally, a Finance Committee comprised of all the Councillors, the Office of Local Government appointed independent financial expert and human resources adviser, and an independent legal adviser will be established to oversee Council’s forensic internal audit and the 100-Day Action Plan to financial recovery.

The 100-Day Action Plan will include:
  • Identifying savings in the Capital Works and Operational Services programs
  • Implement Capital Works savings of $22.4 million which have immediately been identified         
  • An immediate reduction in non-essential services
  • Removal of financial delegations and enhanced financial controls
  • A review of temporary and casual contractors
  • Overtime to be highly restricted
  • Identifying future revenue opportunities
  • Investigation of loans and borrowing options; and
  • More aggressive debt repayment programs
Central Coast Council has faced major challenges since the forced amalgamation of Gosford City and Wyong Shire councils in 2016 including a series of significant natural disasters this past year including bushfires, floods, coastal erosion and also responding to the impacts of COVID-19.

In July 2020 the CC Council reported it has cost Central Coast Council almost $39 million more to amalgamate on top of the $10 million it received from the NSW Government’s implementation fund. 
Costs included $8.3 million to harmonise salaries and to resolve back dated entitlements for staff of the former Councils.

It will take until June 2022 to complete the amalgamation process, according to the July report, with CC  Council CEO, Gary Murphy, stating then it would take a decade for the benefits to be seen and all the consolidation to be implemented.

Central Coast CEO, Mr Gary Murphy, is currently on leave and Mr Jamie Loader, Director Water and Sewer is Acting CEO.


Avalon Bilgola Amateur Swimming Club

We swim down at Bilgola Rock Pool during the summer months on Saturday mornings. Races start at 9:00 am, entries close 8:45 am, with events for all the family. We have a 100/200/400m event then 3 handicap (15/25/50m) events in Freestyle and 2 of the other strokes or 2x50m Relay each morning.

We cater for all standards of swimmers, from the social swimmer to those who enjoy some fun Competition. Being handicap events everyone has a chance of winning with a big emphasis placed on the point-score.

Our registration fee is $40 per member.

Narrabeen Lakes Amateur Swimming Club Season Registration

It’s easy to join our club, just come and see us at 1:30pm on any Saturday afternoon between October and April at our beloved rock pool at North Narrabeen.
Find out more at: www.nlasc.com.au

How to Register
Due to COVID restrictions, we are only offering online registrations this year.

Fees
This year’s swimming season runs from 24 Oct 2020 to 27 March 2021. Come down and try out the club for free.

MEMBER OCT – APR
Non Swimmer $10
Swimmers $60
Family Rate 1st swimmer $60
                        2nd  swimmer $50
                        3rd and …. $35 each

Due to Ms Rona's restrictions, we had to change up how we celebrate the achievements of our swimmers, and will hold presentation day at the conclusion of OUR FIRST DAY BACK AT SWIMMING: 24 OCTOBER.

Because we can't use the clubhouse, this presentation will be weather dependent.  Additionally, there will be no tombola or feast.  We will replace that this year with air kisses, jazz hands and raucous cheering.
We can't wait to see you all back at swim club.  We are working closely with the council and WASA to ensure we can keep doing what we love best in a safe manner.  


Statewide Mental Health Peer Support Helpline Available For The Community

People on the Northern Beaches who are struggling with their mental health and wellbeing are being reminded about an innovative mental health peer support phone line that is free to call and available now.

Member for Manly James Griffin said the NSW Government funded BEING Supported ‘warmline’ was there to support anyone looking for an understanding ear.

“I want to remind our community that the helpline is for anyone who needs help and would like to have a friendly, confidential conversation with someone who understands what they are going through.”

Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor said the unique service offered an alternative for people who would prefer not to initially speak to a doctor or nurse.

“There is no need for a referral, anyone can call this fantastic service which is staffed by trained staff who have been through mental health issues and emotional distress themselves.”

“As well as providing that much needed connection through shared experience, the team can provide referrals to other services if more help is needed.”

“BEING” is the NSW peak body for people with lived experience of mental health issues. The NSW Government is providing $800,000 to the organisation to run the service as a six-month pilot until the end of 2020. The outcomes of the pilot will be independently evaluated.

This funding is part of the $80 million package the NSW Government announced for the COVID-19 mental health response.

The warmline is available seven days a week between 10am to 4pm and 6pm to 10pm. If you would like to have a conversation with a mental health peer worker, the number to call is 1800 151 151.

For more information, visit: https://beingsupported.org.au/

BYRA: Racing Commences 

BYRA is already OPEN for Individual COVID-19 safe sailing, it is permissible and supported.
 
Using the Mantra Get IN, SAIL and GET OUT  the boathouse and boats are accessible, there are sanitation stations in the entry to the boathouse. This season our fleet has already increased, we have 4 Manly Graduates, (the Spinnaker version of the NS14). Also  two very active teams on the 29er skiff to watch, maybe three, now the Matt had his out on the water a couple of Saturdays back.

The regions which separated sport participants competing have relaxed and there is no restrictions about the region where you live. So everyone is welcome back to BYRA.
  

SAILING is happening on Sundays on PITTWATER
 
LET'S GET ON THE WATER

Let’s see you casually sailing at BYRA this weekend.

For organised racing at this stage is scheduled to start on 11 October.
With the changing of the Zone regulations many Clubs are again holding point score events.
 
Please note that you will find the clubhouse upstairs closed with the exception of the First Aid Cabinet). 
Please ensure the current NSW Government social distancing rules (1.5m) are enforced and follow and strict hygiene procedures are followed.

Remember to bring your own snacks and drinks, as the canteen is not available.

Junior and Learn to Sail
It has been called it the Juniors Section but it is not only for the Learn to Sail sailors, it's also for the older younger ones who are doing great things for the sailing on Pittwater. They have been participating in the Winter sailing and training too. Let us see your pictures on BYRA Facebook .

The Learn to Sail Modules will soon be on the website, and because of Covid 19 number restrictions places will be fewer this time, so feel free to enrol as son as they show themselves.
 
Planned Schedule for Learn to Sail (L T S) classes Spring 2020
 
Sunday October 11       9am -12pm                   Try Sailing Day & LTS Registration
Sunday October 18       8.30am -11.30am     LTS  Week 1
Sunday October 25       8.30am -11.30am     LTS  Week 2
Sunday November 1      8.30am -11.30am    LTS  Week 3
Sat/Sun November 7&8  No LTS . F 11  State titles held at BYRA
Sunday November 15     8.30am -11.30am    LTS  Week 18ft Skiff Junior Day (Sydney Harbour)
Sunday November 22     8.30am -11.30am    LTS  Week 5
Sunday November 29     8.30am -11.30am    LTS  Week 6
Sunday December   6     8.30am -11.30am    LTS  Week 7
Sunday December 13     8.30am -11.30am    LTS  Week 8
Sat/Sun December27&28  MJ Nationals  held at BYRA

Bayview Yacht Racing Association
1842, Pittwater Road, Bayview


Domestic Violence Support During Covid-19 

NB: Where to get help Fact Sheet is below. Simply click on PDF and 'save as' on your own device

People experiencing domestic violence can be assured police and frontline services are ready to support them and their families as NSW continues to respond to the coronavirus threat.

Member for Manly James Griffin said the Northern Beaches community should not hesitate to seek help and support at this time. 

“If you are in danger or in an emergency call Triple Zero (000),” Mr Griffin said. “If you are in need of support services, such as housing or counselling, our hard working frontline staff are also available to help those suffering domestic violence.”  

“No person, whether they live on the Northern Beaches or anywhere in Australia, should in live in fear of violence and I urge people to seek the help they need when it is safe to do so.”

Mr Griffin added that perpetrators are on notice and that police have increased efforts to combat violence in the home including more proactive operations to enforce protection orders. 

“Police will continue to conduct Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) compliance checks to keep victims safe.”

NSW Police Force Domestic Violence Corporate Spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Mark Jones, said police are monitoring rates of domestic violence. 

“High-risk and repeat offenders are being targeted by specially trained police to ensure that all orders are strictly followed and complied with and offenders are arrested if violence is detected,” Assistant Commissioner Jones said. 

“Police are also able to vary existing interim or final ADVOs if we know that violence is escalating, without needing to first go to court, so victims are immediately protected.

“NSW Police are working together with government agencies, including NSW Health, to ensure there is no increased health risk to the community in the current environment.”

The NSW Government is constantly adapting as the COVID-19 emergency evolves, which includes various justice, housing and policing responses to combat domestic violence.

Where to get help - March 2020.pdfWhere to get help - March 2020.pdf
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Where You Can Get Tested In Our Area:

Mona Vale Hospital - Building 14, Community Health Centre, Coronation Street, Mona Vale. Please ring to register for testing.  PHONE: 9998 6296
Mona Vale Hospital message:  The recent changes to our mask guidelines means patients, carers and visitors are to wear a mask at our hospital.  Staff will also wear a mask when they are delivering care or when they can’t socially distance 1.5 metres. Open 9am-4:30pm, 7 days. 

Dee Why Respiratory Clinic - G/5 Mooramba Road, Dee Why. 8am-5pm Monday-Saturday
Booking required via (02) 8416 5005
Booking web address; https://www.hotdoc.com.au/medical-centres/dee-why-NSW-2099/dee-why-respiratory-clinic/doctors?purpose=respiratory

Brookvale Community Health Centre Clinic - 612-624 Pittwater Road, Brookvale. 8am-6pm 7 days. No booking required

Frenchs Forest Douglass Hanly Moir Pathology - 5 Forest Way, Frenchs Forest, 8am-4pm Monday to Friday. Booking required via 1800 026 622 or (02) 9111 3405

Frenchs Forest MedLab Pathology-  8 Hilmer Street, Frenchs Forest, 9am-4pm Monday to Friday, 9am-1pm Saturday No booking required.

North Narrabeen Clinical Labs Pathology - 1416 Pittwater Road, Narrabeen. 10am-4pm Monday to Friday. No booking required.

Northern Beaches Hospital - 105 Frenchs Forest Road (West), Frenchs Forest;  Rear of Emergency Department (secluded mental health entry) 8am- 5pm, 7 days - No booking required.
Drive directly to the clinic by following the signs, please do not use the main car park.  
For people walking or travelling by public transport, follow the red line outside the hospital, then ring the Emergency Department intercom and they will be escorted to the clinic  for testing. 

PATIENTS: We are now temperature checking all staff and visitors ahead of elective surgery returning to the hospital next week. These checks will help us ensure the safety of our staff and visitors during this time.
Entry is via the main entrance or emergency department and all other entry points are closed. There is also screening at the dock for deliveries. The team conducting the checks will take temperatures and ask a few simple questions about wellbeing and possible contact with COVID-19.
Please be patient with our staff conducting the checks.
If you have a high temperature (37.5C or above) or have been unwell with a new cough, sore throat or difficulty breathing, you should call the COVID-19 hotline or visit our COVID-19 clinic for assessment.  


VISITORS: To ensure the safety of all patients and staff, we need to limit the number of visitors to our hospitals and services. Patients will be asked to nominate one visitor, preferably your next of kin, for the duration of your hospital stay. We understand this will difficult for families, but we need everyone to help to protect patients and staff.

Visitors must NOT have travelled overseas in the last 14 days, NOT been in close contact with a person who has been diagnosed positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days, or have fever, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath. 

Visitors to Patient with COVID-19 (or awaiting results)
In order to provide strict infection control, no visitors will be allow to patients who have a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 or those awaiting test results for COVID-19. We understand there will need to be some exceptions to this, especially with children and also with extremely unwell patients, so we ask that you talk to your families and if you have any questions, please speak to your clinical care team. 

Mask requirements: In line with NSW Health guidelines, please note all patients will be required to wear a mask when presenting to the hospital and when outside of their rooms. Visitors must wear a mask before entering the hospital. Please bring a mask from home where possible.​


Speed Humps On McCarrs Creek Rd: Please Share Wildlife Data 

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

It records the GPS position, date, sex, species. Photos can be added as they help in identification
The data is then forwarded to OEH and Transport NSW as it can help establish the best places to place  mitigation. Thanking you all in advance for your help with this.

Please Register Wildlife Road Strikes

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

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

 

Festive Season Reimagined: Manly To Avalon Beach 2020


Friday October 16, 2020: NBC

Due to the risk of Coronavirus (COVID-19) and acting on lead NSW Health advice on outdoor gatherings, Northern Beaches Council has made the tough decision to cancel this year’s Christmas Carol events along with New Year’s Eve fireworks to protect the health and wellbeing of our community and visitors.

Council will instead put the funds towards smaller initiatives in the town centres and outdoor spaces such as public and street art, localised performers and carollers, lighting displays and Christmas decorations.

Mayor Michael Regan said cancelling the popular events, which attract tens of thousands of people, was a very difficult decision but was simply the right thing to do.

“The community’s health and safety is paramount and we could not guarantee large crowds could gather safely with the continued threat of possible COVID-19 infections,” Cr Regan said.

“Obviously, this will be disappointing for many people which is why we have decided to reallocate the funds to provide localised entertainment, lights and street art to give our whole area a real festive buzz through the holiday period.

“This approach has the added benefit of supporting some local artists and musicians and we encourage locals to submit an EOI if they’d like to be a part of it.”

A/Commander of Northern Beaches Police Area Command, Jill Walters, supported Council’s decision to cancel the New Year fireworks this year.

“The health and safety of the general public is paramount and unfortunately due to COVID-19 the impact of the crowds due to the fireworks may have the potential to place people at risk,” she said.

Cr Regan said major events are subject to the NSW Government’s public health orders, which are continuously amended to address the local impact of the pandemic.

“Due to current health precautions in place, other community groups have also made the hard decision to cancel their Christmas carol events.

“Council supports those decisions as they are simply in the best interest of community safety.

“It would be irresponsible for us to encourage thousands of people to come together, potentially exposing them to infection because enforcing social distancing would be impossible.

“We look forward to the return of events to the community when it is safe to do so,” Cr Regan said.

Bands, musicians, orchestras and choirs from the Northern Beaches are encouraged to submit an EOI to be a part of the entertainment initiative – see Christmas Musicians - Expression of Interest:

/www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/council-event-program/christmas-musicians-expression-interest

CANCELLED EVENTS

Christmas

  1. Christmas Choral Concert, Manly
  2. Christmas by the Beach, Dee Why
  3. Carols by the Lake, Narrabeen (organised by Link Church) reimagined interactive online event, Saturday, 19 December, link.org.au/carols
  4. Mona Vale Carols (organised by Rotary Club Upper Northern Beaches)
  5. Frenchs Forest Carols by Candlelight (organised by Frenchs Forest Lions Club)
  6. Avalon Carols at the Beach (organised by Avalon SLSC)

New Year

  1. Manly, (in conjunction with Manly Wharf Hotel)
  2. Dee Why
  3. Bayview (in conjunction with The Newport)

Halloween In 2020: NSW Health

If your children are planning on trick or treating this Halloween, there are a few important guidelines to follow to keep the event COVID-19 safe.

Providing levels of community transmission remain low, NSW Health is supportive of Halloween celebrations going ahead – with some caveats:
  • It should be a front-yard event, not a front-door event (keep it outdoors)
  • Instead of communal lolly bowls, consider other ways of distributing treats (eg strewn along the front fence, have hand sanitiser at the front gate)
  • Trick or treat on a household basis (eg a supervising adult and children from the same household), rather than groups of young people together
  • Maintain physical distancing between trick or treating households – don’t all crowd together in a pack
  • Keep it local – put effort into decorating the front yard rather than focusing on well-known “treat streets”
  • Don’t share costume face masks.

Join The Conversation On North Head Sanctuary: Survey Closes November 30

October 12, 2020
The Harbour Trust has invited the community to have a say on a treasured public parkland on Sydney Harbour – North Head Sanctuary in Manly.

The Harbour Trust’s Management Plan for North Head Sanctuary sets the direction for the site. The current Plan was made in 2011 and, through its implementation, the Harbour Trust maintained this loved destination.

What we are doing
We are now in the early stages of refreshing our approach at North Head Sanctuary. We want to know what you think this historically significant site should look and feel like in the future. Your input will help shape how the Management Plan could evolve.

We invite you to explore North Head Sanctuary, reflect on its important First Nations history, immerse in the unique flora and fauna, marvel at its historic buildings and underground tunnels, and give us your valuable input to help shape the site's future.

Have your say
To have your say on North Head Sanctuary, text “Hello Harbour Trust” to 0480 018 889 or complete our online survey. Our online feedback will close on Monday 30 November 2020. We will publish a consultation outcome report shortly after.

PLUS: When you next visit, look out for the yellow signs and follow the instructions to strike up a friendly conversation with objects and landmarks across the site. We’ve brought to life a number of objects so they can share their history and ask you a few questions.

This is the first of many opportunities to share your views with the Harbour Trust. We look forward to continuing the conversation and consulting with the community further in early 2021.


Further details


North Head sanctuary, Manly - photo by Danesk1

Creating Places For People: Public Space Vision And Design Guidelines Open For Comment

Northern Beaches Council is seeking community feedback on a new set of guidelines that will improve the design of public spaces in the Northern Beaches.

The Public Space Vision and Design Guidelines aim to provide consistency in the planning and ‘look and feel’ of public spaces, using the principles of best practice urban design, while also respecting the individual character of our unique centres and villages.

Mayor Michael Regan said the guidelines will simplify the separate sets of rules used by the three separate councils prior to amalgamation.

“Our new urban design guidelines will direct how we complement the unique character and identity of public places in our community,” Cr Regan said.

“Putting people at the centre of all our urban design is fundamental. We want to create public places where people can connect, feel safe and reach a sense of belonging.

“Local character is what makes an area distinctive. It is the interplay of land use and built form, public and private spaces and cultural heritage.”

As well as prioritising spaces for people, the guidelines give precedence to key environmental priorities and focus on trees and water-sensitive designs.

Earlier, limited pre-testing of the guidelines attracted 235 comments from community members – with overall positive feedback.

Six key objectives form the foundation of the guidelines which are derived from state government public domain targets and previous engagement with the community.

The six objectives are:
  • Enhance and protect the bush, beach & water character;
  • Encourage social activation through street design;
  • Inspire healthy and active lifestyles through safe & inclusive footpath & cycleway networks;
  • Implement traffic calming interventions to create safe environments;
  • Integrate water sensitive urban design into streets and open spaces; and
  • Increase canopy cover on streets.
Submissions on the Public Space Vision and Design Guidelines close on 1 November, 2020. Go to Council’s Your Say web page for more details.

Call For Volunteers To Keep Our Beaches Open And COVID-Free This Summer

Northern Beaches Council is calling for expressions of interest for people to become Volunteer COVID Safety Ambassadors to help keep the community safe and healthy this summer.

In conjunction with Council’s COVID-19 Summer Action Plan for Outdoor Public Spaces, volunteers would interact with visitors at popular coastal locations reminding them of social distancing requirements.

Mayor Michael Regan said Council has worked hard to support keeping beaches and popular places open this summer, but the community has to do its bit to make that happen.

“Our plan specifies ways we will monitor crowd numbers and keep public spaces and beaches at safe capacity,” Cr Regan said.

”Volunteers will be important to support the teams of lifeguards and lifesavers who will be actively giving friendly reminders and updates to people about social distancing and gathering sizes.

“We have all seen examples of where volunteer ambassadors have worked well at sporting events, like the local rugby, and being respected as they asked people to maintain suitable distance.

“Volunteers would perform a similar role to those at the Sydney Olympics, providing a friendly face to crowd management, which then helps free up lifeguards and lifesavers to focus on the water.

“We all want to play a part to keep our beaches in particular open for summer.

This is a great way for us to help our community and those that visit to keep us safe in the water, and keep the beaches open for a swim,” he said

Times, locations and days are flexible and training and a uniform will be provided.

To express an interest in becoming a Volunteer COVID Safety Ambassador, click here.

Local Scientists Wanted

Organisations and individuals on the Northern Beaches with ideas for exciting National Science Week events for next year are being encouraged to apply for a grant to make their idea a reality. 

Member for Mackellar, Jason Falinski MP said preparations for next year’s annual festival of science are now underway, with grants of up to $20,000 available for those who are ready to inspire Australia’s next generation of big picture thinkers. 

“The idea is to make science fun and accessible to everyone and I urge qualified local people with good ideas to put them forward for grants,” Mr Falinski said. 
“Successful grant applications will mean that you can have a positive impact on your community and set an example for others. Let’s get involved and show what the Northern Beaches can do!”

“This year’s event organisers showed incredible ingenuity in delivering their events online due to COVID-19 restrictions. It was great to see people from all over the country come together to participate in virtual tours, online events and DIY science and citizen science projects.”

National Science Week will run from 14 - 22 August 2021 and is Australia’s largest festival with over a million people participating in thousands of events each year.

Applications for 2021 National Science Week grants are now open, and close on 28 October 2020. 

To apply for a grant, or read the updated grant opportunity guidelines, go to https://www.business.gov.au/nswkg  

To find out more about National Science Week go to www.scienceweek.net.au

Avalon Boomerang Bags Workshop News

New Tuesday workshop times in the Avalon Recreation Centre 11am - 3pm. All are welcome, if you can't sew we will teach you.

Bags and plastic free reusable goodies are for sale during the workshops so please pop in.

Remember there is no excuse for single use plastics, even during wretched COVID19, and washed reusables are best. Do our ocean, waves and beaches a favour and BYO bags, bottles, cups and straws.



2021 Doggie Rescue Calendar

Monika's Doggie Rescue have just opened orders for their 2021 Superheroes calendar.
This is the major fundraising activity for the whole year for this organisation to save all these darling dogs, cats, rabbits (and others) and these wonderful calendars make an excellent Christmas gift that brings delight to those you give it to all year round - for 12 months in fact!

Pittwater Online has already secured ours and no, we will not be handing them over should you miss out - staff and family have already put their hands up, and there will be howling, literally, should anyone find theirs has been 'reallocated'.


October 11 - 17, 2020: Issue 469

This Issue: 

Front Page Issue 469 

B-Line To Operate 24/7 Alongside High Frequency Local Bus Network: The Details Of Route Changes To Commence In December 2020

Freshwater Teenager Sets Her Sight On A Caring Future by Abby Edwards - Ahead of National Carers Week 2020, October 11-17, a time to recognise the 2.8 million Australians who provide care and support to a family member or friend, this insight into Gabi Palmes' role in her grandmas care provides an opportunity to learn more about the support available for carers - caring for carers is important.

Aquatics North Avalon Surfriders Association (NASA) Win Inaugural Aloha Manly Junior Teams Event

Local Surfers Shine In Rip Curl GromSearch At Newcastle 2020

Pictures Mona Vale Road East Upgrade: October 2020 Pictorial Update

DIY Ideas Spring is here and wattles are out in bloom: a love letter to our iconic flowers + tips on how to have a health Australian plants garden which will attract birds that will eat ticks

Park Bench Philosopher Sydney's ACA Building Revitalisation Project Complete: Grand Old Building Has Links To Architects Of St. Patrick's College Manly - Some History Notes

Reflections by George Repin: THE CORINTH CANAL

Environment Aussie Backyard Bird Count 2020 (Oct. 19-25), Spring In Pittwater, 600+ School Strike For Climate Events Take Place, Farmers and Traditional Owners Will Continue To Fight Santos Coal Seam Gasfield, Zombie PELS: Farmers’ Worst Fears Confirmed As Gas Companies Seek To Raise Expired Permits From The Dead, Federal Environment Poised To Ignore Whitehaven’s Criminal History After New Entity Created, Watch Out On The Pittwater Estuary Water Zones & Beaches: Seals Are About, ‘Backwards’ federal budget: Morrison government never fails to disappoint on climate action, How much the budget undervalued conservation: 16 World Heritage sites received less than Sydney Harbour, Up to 14 million tonnes of microplastics lie on the seafloor: It’s worse than we thought, Tick Population Booming In Our Area, Echidna season, Shorebirds booklet, Community Gardens and Environment Groups, Pittwater Reserves++

Inbox News Taking The STING Out Of MND, Nitrous Oxide Emissions Pose An Increasing Climate Threat, $750 Million RPA Hospital Redevelopment Fast-Tracked, Study Confirms Genetic Link In Cerebral Palsy, Plans For The New $780 Million John Hunter Hospital Building Unveiled, Moon's Magnetic Crust Research Sees Scientists Debunk Long-Held Theory

Profile NASA - North Avalon Surfriders Association

NASA - North Avalon Surfriders Association, is a local board riders surf club that runs monthly competitions across all age groups in Avalon Beach. NASA holds monthly local club surfing competitions for members on the last Saturday of every month from February to November. Email nasaboardriders@gmail.com for membership details.

In 2020 they are celebrating their 50th year with a get-together planned for 2021 and a book currently being worked on to share some insights into this great local club and its members. In the meantime, let's find out a bit more about NASA. 

HUGE thanks to Phil Jones and all the team at NASA for answering the questions and putting together these photos.

History Pittwater Roads II: Where The Streets Have Your Name - Church Point
A place of timber-getters from earliest European settlement days, Church Point and its deeper soils became a veritable garden of Eden once enough trees had been cleared from the lands - peaches, potatoes, bananas, grapes, citrus fruits - all of the finest quality according to scores of early newspaper reports, flourished on the hillsides and in the byways alongside and to and even beside McCarrs Creek. This was essentially a 'water access' place, with the deeper bays allowing timber felled or produce grown to be shipped south via the coast to 'Sydney Town'. Later on it was still the offshore living and byways that predominated - fishing, oyster culture, the growing of tropical fruits alongside those that do better in colder climes, that need that coolness to produce perfection. By 1882 a road had been established though, handbuilt by those who lived there.

Artist of the Month October 2020: Pamela Ann Griffith

Pamela Griffith - Wollongong Then And Now

An exhibition of Illawarra landscapes painted by Pamela Griffith in 2019, and photographs from the collection by Charles Kerry depicting the same locations some 130 years apart. 

In continuing the Pittwater Online focus on encouraging residents to get out of Pittwater and visit and support our regional areas and peoples during a very challenging year, for the 2020 Spring School Holidays an insight into a wonderful Australian Artist with local connections could not be passed up - we wanted to run this earlier in 2020 and are thrilled that the time has now come!

Pamela Griffith visits our area regularly to spend time with her daughter, also a mum, and Academic, Design Thinker, Entrepreneur, Public Speaker, Board Director and ex-Pittwater Councillor Selena Griffith. Pamela is also visiting our area to develop a project along similar lines to the current Pamela Griffith - Wollongong Then and Now exhibition and was thrilled to hear from the Editor of Pittwater Online that Mr. Kerry visited and photographed everywhere along our peninsula, including the newly gazetted Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park - and was one of several early Australian photographers to do so, including Robert Hunt, Henry King, Charles Bayliss, Samuel Woods, E A Macpherson, Rex Hazlewood and even a resident of here in Arthur Vogan, and many others. Mr. Kerry was a frequent visitor to our area and one of the gentlemen behind a scheme to run motor omnibuses to Pittwater, as announced at the official opening of George Brock's 'The Oaks' at Mona Vale in 1906. His images illuminate many a History page run here and show the changes between the landscapes of early Pittwater and what is present now.

More on that project, and Pamela, as it comes to fruition!!

In the meantime - if you fancy a train trip or journey by road to Wollongong now is the time to do it. By train the scenery is marvellous and if you go by road you can take in the magical engineered Sea Cliff Bridge. This feature segment of the Grand Pacific Drive has quickly become an international icon. Port Kembla Harbour is going though a transformation and there are the marvellous rock pools and sandy beaches along the way, and of course, Spring is a great time for a landscape artist to capture the stunning beauty of the Illawarra should you wish to head south to develop your practice.

For over 50 years Pamela Griffith has made aspects of the Australian landscape the prime subject of her art. Her closeness to her grandparents who grew up in Wollongong and came from pioneering families in the area encouraged Pamela to paint a series of works on this beautiful city as a process of getting to know the family history. By showing Griffith’s paintings and etchings in conjunction with the colonial photographer Charles Kerry, that are part of the Galleries permanent collection, this exhibition enables the viewer to simultaneously look at both times past and time present. It is possible therefore to imagine a future time when a viewer will see Griffith’s work as a unique record of the Illawarra in the years leading up to 2020 and marvel at how times have changed.

Covid19 prevented the exhibition opening in March and the Gallery was closed until July 1st. Already many people have visited the exhibition and have allowed time to enjoy both the 19th century photography and Griffith’s delightful works on canvas, etchings and watercolours. Her work ranges from the landscape of the Illawarra and its natural life to the edges of the Royal National Park in the north. In the south it stops near Windang beach, taking in Lake Illawarra along the way. Ever-present is the backdrop of the escarpment with the wonderful blue-greens of the slopes. Her large study of Governor Game Lookout near Garie Beach shows off the vivid colour of the Gymea Lilies against the clear blues of sky and sea. 

It is not surprising that this outstanding show has been kept on display by the gallery for more people to be able to see it, but Pamela Griffith - Wollongong Then and Now will close on the 25th of October - so if you want to see the works in their place and then wander through their physical landscapes - head south this October and enjoy a taste of Wollongong and an Illawarra Spring.

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: October 5, 2020

Click on Logo to access latest PON:  

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

New Vessel And Equipment Boost Firefighters' Safety This Summer

September 25, 2020
Sydney’s bushfire fighting capabilities will be boosted ahead of summer, with the NSW Government today unveiling a new purpose-built vessel and announcing the roll-out of new safety equipment for National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) firefighting vehicles.

Environment Minister Matt Kean said the new NPWS vessel, Nawi 1, was named in consultation with the local Metropolitan Aboriginal Land Council.

“NAWI 1 will improve NPWS’ water-based incident response capabilities around the Hawkesbury River and Sydney Harbour’s small islands and bushland,” Mr Kean said.

“The vessel will be utilised for hazard reduction burns and wildfires to transport crews to locations that are more easily accessible by water.

“The boat is specially fitted with a firefighting water pump to directly attack fire fronts from the water or to attach fire hoses.”

Moored off Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, the new vessel will also transport vital equipment allowing NPWS crews to undertake conservation works, maintenance and marine mammal rescues including whale disentanglements.

In a further boost to the Service all CAT9s, NPWS’ key firefighting vehicles, will be equipped with Automated External Defibrillators (AED).

“The first of more than 280 defib packs are in the process of being mounted within the vehicle cabins and staff will undergo further first aid training,” Mr Kean said.

“These life saving devices will provide a rapid response capability for more than 1000 trained firefighters that work as part of the NPWS team across the state, often in remote locations, in the event of a cardiac arrest.”

In addition to ongoing fire training the NPWS hazard reduction program for 2020 is focussed on essential burns to protect park neighbours, assets or significant habitat to ensure ongoing recovery of the wildlife impacted by the summer bushfires.


Nawi 1 - photo courtesy NSW OE&H

Ingleside Rural Fire Brigade Hazard Reduction: Elanora And Deep Creek

October 4th, 2020
Ingleside NSWRFS volunteers conducted a 9 hectare Hazard Reduction burn today in the Elanora Heights and Deep Creek area of Wakehurst Parkway. 


Tumbledown Dick Rural Fire Brigade Hazard Reduction Work Narrabeen

October 3, 2020 
Our Cat 1 was part of the Narrabeen Sports Academy Hazard Reduction today. 
An easy 3ha burn with two of our newbies getting some time in the smoke.



Inflatable Lifejacket Self-Service Clinics In October 2020

Inflatable lifejackets are easy to wear and comfortable but they require extra care and attention to ensure they will inflate in an emergency.

Did you know?
  • In NSW it is a legal requirement to service inflatable lifejackets every year or in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.
  • Most inflatable lifejackets can be self-serviced, depending on the manufacturer's guidelines
  • Penalties may apply if your lifejacket is found to not have been serviced as required.
The lifejacket self-service clinics follow the successful Old4New mobile lifejacket program - a five year program that focused on lifejacket wear, and sold more than 25,700 lifejackets to the boating community, including 17,550 automatic inflatable lifejackets at locations across NSW.

Transport for NSW's compliance data suggests some recreational boaters are not aware of the legislative requirements for maintain self-inflating lifejackets, or that some forget to carry out the simple routine checks and maintenance schedules specified by the lifejacket manufacturers.

The program is part of the NSW Government's 'Wear a Lifejacket' campaign, and is aligned with the Maritime Safety Plan.

Lifejacket self-service clinics
Transport for NSW Boating Education Officers conduct free inflatable lifejacket self-service clinics along NSW coastal areas, lakes and rivers. The clinics aim to promote over awareness of inflatable lifejacket servicing requirements, and provide step-by-step instruction on the self-servicing process.

Due to concerns over the spread of COVID-19, face to face inflatable lifejacket self-service clinics have been postponed for the remainder of 2020 to ensure the health and safety of our staff and the community. As an alternative, Transport for NSW will be hosting online live stream inflatable lifejacket self-service clinics in October 2020.

A list of upcoming inflatable lifejacket self-service clinics can be found in the registration section below.

Register for a lifejacket clinic
Date   Time    Event    Registration

Wednesday 14th October 2020: 12:00 – 13:00 - Inflatable Lifejacket Self-Service Clinic Livestream
Register for the livestream


Saturday 17th October 2020: 12:00 – 13:00 - Inflatable Lifejacket Self-Service Clinic Livestream

Wednesday 21st October 2020: 19:00 – 20:00 -  Inflatable Lifejacket Self-Service Clinic Livestream

Registered participant benefits
Registered participants are eligible to receive free replacement parts for their inflatable lifejacket, or a $15 voucher that can be used towards the purchase of an inflatable lifejacket or self-service parts at a participating retail partner store. For here that is The Life Aquatic - Mona Vale


A Poll Delayed Is Democracy Denied

To the Editor
In the early months of 2020, as the Covid-19 pandemic gathered momentum, it was a reasonable response for the NSW Electoral Commission to postpone local government elections scheduled for September. Their aim was to protect voters, Electoral Commission staff and the candidates.

As the months passed however, and we began to control and to live with the virus, it has become obvious that elections can be safely and successfully conducted. We have had a Federal by-election in Eden Monaro and a State election in the Northern Territory, whilst the ACT and Queensland go to the polls this month.

Democracy is important, so important to Victoria that they have pressed ahead with plans for statewide local government elections by postal vote, despite being hammered by a devastating second wave of the pandemic. Presumably, the candidates there can be safely protected by campaigning mostly through the media. Elsewhere, much business is carried out using the many means provided by the Internet. We have all learned to safely and successfully “socially distance” and a polling station is better regulated than your local supermarket.

The ACT is pioneering electronic voting for their election this year, but this does not involve the internet and voters will still need to attend a polling station. 

Meanwhile, several communities across NSW are in a state of disharmony and disarray because of the actions of their local council. Whether you are disillusioned with your local council or dismayed by the rancour and vitriol caused by a vocal minority, you can petition the NSW State Government to review its decision to postpone local government elections until September of next year.

This petition also requests that the Legislative Assembly;

“remind the elected councillors of NSW of their extraordinary positions of responsibility during any period of deferred elections by requiring that they refrain from decisions or commitments that have, or may have, significant or unmeasured community concern or opposition”.

When requested to place councils into caretaker mode during the period of suspended elections the Minister for Local Government replied: “Caretaker arrangements do not take effect until 4 weeks before an election”. 

In fact, the NSW House of Assembly has considerable powers to regulate the actions of councils at any time. The carefully worded petition is a reasonable request that, in a “pub test”, could not be interpreted ambiguously.

The ePetition can be found at www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/la/pages/epetitions-list.aspx

Dr Maxwell Brinsmead  

Mona Vale Road East - Out Of Hours Work To October 16, 2020

Out of hours work is planned from 8pm to 6am on the below dates, weather permitting.

If work is delayed due to wet weather, we will try and work a different night that same week. We will notify highly impacted residents if there is a change of date.

Work along the eastern end of the project will occur on:

  • Tuesday 6, Thursday 8 and Friday 9 October
  • Tuesday 13, Thursday 15 and Friday 16 October

Our work includes:

  • laying new asphalt around the Mona Vale Road, Samuel Street and Ponderosa Parade roundabout
  • ongoing road maintenance.

Work along the western end of the project will occur on:

  • Tuesday 6, Thursday 8 and Friday 9 October
  • Monday 12, Tuesday 13, Thursday 15 and Friday 16 October

Our work includes:

  • removing rock from the top of the existing rock cuttings near the eastern end of Lane Cove Road, Walana Crescent and Laurel Road
  • hauling material away from our work zones near the eastern end of Lane Cove Road, Walana Crescent and Laurel Road to our stockpile at the Western Early Works site off Tumburra Street
  • ongoing road maintenance.

The Environment Protection Agency has approved a trial of increased night work, to four nights a week, over a six week period. This is necessary to remove the remaining rock along Mona Vale Road. The trial will begin on Monday 12 October. We will contact with highly and moderately impacted residents during the trial to seek your feedback and agreement for the four nights per week to continue beyond the six week trial

During our night work we will use excavators with rock hammers, large bulldozers, backhoes, tipper trucks, elevated work platforms, a roller, a paver, a profiler, street sweepers, vacuum trucks, light vehicles and lighting towers.

Visit our pop-up information stall at Pittwater Place on Friday 9 October from 10.30am to 1.30pm. We will be inside, near the main entrance from Park Street.

This is an opportunity to ask questions and provide feedback in person.

For more information call us on 1800 413 640, email monavaleroad@georgiou.com.au or visit rms.work/mvreast.

If you need help understanding this information, please contact the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450

Map showing location of out of hours work - Note: Shaded areas are approximations for general information and illustrative purposes only:

Soibada Update

Friends of Soibada and the community in the village want to say thank you! 

Don’t forget, please share our crowdfunding campaign to as many people as you can. We are about half way to our target and you can see in this video what a difference your generosity is making!
Crowdfunding page: https://bit.ly/3gfsAcd


Seeking Old The Basin Cabins Photos

To the Editor
I'm new to this page but not new to Pittwater. As a family we holidayed at The Basin in the 1940's, 50's and 60's. There were many permanent cabins at the base of the hill on the Eastern end and I'm hoping that someone might have some old family pics of the cabins that were there.


one of Peter's photos

For many years there was a shop at The Basin near the swimming pool on the West end where we could buy the essentials when we were holidaying.

I have a few pics from the 50's at The Basin, if there's an interest. I have a memory that when Prince Charles was educated in Australia he actually stayed in the cottage that is still standing, I can't find any proof of this but I am of a similar age and I do recall it; it would've been at school holiday time.

Peter Bodman

NB: Pittwater Online has asked Peter to send in his other photos. 

Topham - "Beechwood" also sometimes as 'Beachwood' Mr. F. W. Jackson's cottage at "The Basin"


If anyone has any of the old cabin photos requested, can they please email them in and we'll forward them to him. Thanking you in advance!

Meanwhile, Prince Charles, in 1966:

Prince Charles Visits Bondi Beach 1966

Prince Charles visited Bondi on Wednesday May 25th, 1966, according to one newspaper report,  catching a plane to Victoria straight afterwards. It would appear it was during May 1966 that he visited our area:

A suntanned Prince Charles had a smile and a wave for a group of girls waiting to see him as he left the aircraft at Sydney airport yesterday morning after spending part of his school holidays at Goonoo Goonoo cattle station near Tamworth. Later he visited the Hawkesbury River, where he spent the day with Outward Bound boys at Fisherman's Point. He will leave Sydney at 1.10pm today to return to school at Timbertop in Victoria. No title (1966, May 25). The Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 - 1995), p. 10. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article131774964

A 17-year-old Prince Charles arrived in Sydney on January 30th 1966, 7am, was greeted by by Lord and Lady Casey and also the Governor of Sydney, Sir Roden Cutler, Prime Minister Holt and State Premier R W Askin, ahead of a two-term stint at Timbertop, a remote school in central Victoria, which he first attended on February 2nd, 1966. He spent the days in between in Canberra, including a run in a boat on Lake Burley Griffin.

Originally he was to stay for one term and then this was extended:

Prince Charles to go native
PORT MORESBY, Thursday (AAP). — Prince Charles will live in a native-style hut and eat native food j during a visit to 'Martyrs' Memorial School in north-east Papua next, month.
Prince Charles will visit Papua-New Guinea with a party of 20 Geelong Grammar School boys from May 4 to May 15. He will spend four days at the Anglican mission station at Dogura in eastern Papua — former headquarters of the Church of England in the Territory— and six days at Martyrs' Memorial School near Popondelta.

The 300 Papuan and New Guinean secondary students at Martyrs School grow their own food in huge gardens in the school grounds. They live in dormitories built of hush materials and cook their own food.
The public relations officer for Anglican missions. Miss Susan Young, said Prince Charles would live in the dormitories with native students, share their food and generally be treated as one of them here.
The Martyrs School was founded in 1948 as a memorial to European missionaries and indigenous parishioners killed by the Japanese during the Second World War. Prince Charles to go native (1966, April 15). The Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 - 1995), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article128653353

Farewell to Charles
MELBOURNE, Monday. — Prince Charles will end two terms at Geelong Grammar School's Timbertop this week and leave Australia on Monday.
He will catch an early flight to Sydney from Melbourne on Monday morning and then board a Qantas jet for Kingston, Jamaica.
He will be farewelled by the Governor-General, Lord Casey, in Sydney and in Kingston will join his father, who will open the Commonwealth Games. Farewell to Charles (1966, July 26). The Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 - 1995), p. 16. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article107883761

The Bondi visit: 



Avalon Bilgola Amateur Swimming Club

We swim down at Bilgola Rock Pool during the summer months on Saturday mornings. Races start at 9:00 am, entries close 8:45 am, with events for all the family. We have a 100/200/400m event then 3 handicap (15/25/50m) events in Freestyle and 2 of the other strokes or 2x50m Relay each morning.

We cater for all standards of swimmers, from the social swimmer to those who enjoy some fun Competition. Being handicap events everyone has a chance of winning with a big emphasis placed on the point-score.

Our registration fee is $40 per member.

Narrabeen Lakes Amateur Swimming Club Season Registration

It’s easy to join our club, just come and see us at 1:30pm on any Saturday afternoon between October and April at our beloved rock pool at North Narrabeen.
Find out more at: www.nlasc.com.au

How to Register
Due to COVID restrictions, we are only offering online registrations this year.

Fees
This year’s swimming season runs from 24 Oct 2020 to 27 March 2021. Come down and try out the club for free.

MEMBER OCT – APR
Non Swimmer $10
Swimmers $60
Family Rate 1st swimmer $60
                        2nd  swimmer $50
                        3rd and …. $35 each

Due to Ms Rona's restrictions, we had to change up how we celebrate the achievements of our swimmers, and will hold presentation day at the conclusion of OUR FIRST DAY BACK AT SWIMMING: 24 OCTOBER.

Because we can't use the clubhouse, this presentation will be weather dependent.  Additionally, there will be no tombola or feast.  We will replace that this year with air kisses, jazz hands and raucous cheering.
We can't wait to see you all back at swim club.  We are working closely with the council and WASA to ensure we can keep doing what we love best in a safe manner.  


Statewide Mental Health Peer Support Helpline Available For The Community

People on the Northern Beaches who are struggling with their mental health and wellbeing are being reminded about an innovative mental health peer support phone line that is free to call and available now.

Member for Manly James Griffin said the NSW Government funded BEING Supported ‘warmline’ was there to support anyone looking for an understanding ear.

“I want to remind our community that the helpline is for anyone who needs help and would like to have a friendly, confidential conversation with someone who understands what they are going through.”

Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor said the unique service offered an alternative for people who would prefer not to initially speak to a doctor or nurse.

“There is no need for a referral, anyone can call this fantastic service which is staffed by trained staff who have been through mental health issues and emotional distress themselves.”

“As well as providing that much needed connection through shared experience, the team can provide referrals to other services if more help is needed.”

“BEING” is the NSW peak body for people with lived experience of mental health issues. The NSW Government is providing $800,000 to the organisation to run the service as a six-month pilot until the end of 2020. The outcomes of the pilot will be independently evaluated.

This funding is part of the $80 million package the NSW Government announced for the COVID-19 mental health response.

The warmline is available seven days a week between 10am to 4pm and 6pm to 10pm. If you would like to have a conversation with a mental health peer worker, the number to call is 1800 151 151.

For more information, visit: https://beingsupported.org.au/

BYRA: Racing Commences October 11

BYRA is already OPEN for Individual COVID-19 safe sailing, it is permissible and supported.
 
Using the Mantra Get IN, SAIL and GET OUT  the boathouse and boats are accessible, there are sanitation stations in the entry to the boathouse. This season our fleet has already increased, we have 4 Manly Graduates, (the Spinnaker version of the NS14). Also  two very active teams on the 29er skiff to watch, maybe three, now the Matt had his out on the water a couple of Saturdays back.

The regions which separated sport participants competing have relaxed and there is no restrictions about the region where you live. So everyone is welcome back to BYRA.
  

SAILING is happening on Sundays on PITTWATER
 
LET'S GET ON THE WATER

Let’s see you casually sailing at BYRA this weekend.

For organised racing at this stage is scheduled to start on 11 October.
With the changing of the Zone regulations many Clubs are again holding point score events.
 
Please note that you will find the clubhouse upstairs closed with the exception of the First Aid Cabinet). 
Please ensure the current NSW Government social distancing rules (1.5m) are enforced and follow and strict hygiene procedures are followed.

Remember to bring your own snacks and drinks, as the canteen is not available.

Junior and Learn to Sail
It has been called it the Juniors Section but it is not only for the Learn to Sail sailors, it's also for the older younger ones who are doing great things for the sailing on Pittwater. They have been participating in the Winter sailing and training too. Let us see your pictures on BYRA Facebook .

The Learn to Sail Modules will soon be on the website, and because of Covid 19 number restrictions places will be fewer this time, so feel free to enrol as son as they show themselves.
 
Planned Schedule for Learn to Sail (L T S) classes Spring 2020
 
Sunday October 11       9am -12pm                   Try Sailing Day & LTS Registration
Sunday October 18       8.30am -11.30am     LTS  Week 1
Sunday October 25       8.30am -11.30am     LTS  Week 2
Sunday November 1      8.30am -11.30am    LTS  Week 3
Sat/Sun November 7&8  No LTS . F 11  State titles held at BYRA
Sunday November 15     8.30am -11.30am    LTS  Week 18ft Skiff Junior Day (Sydney Harbour)
Sunday November 22     8.30am -11.30am    LTS  Week 5
Sunday November 29     8.30am -11.30am    LTS  Week 6
Sunday December   6     8.30am -11.30am    LTS  Week 7
Sunday December 13     8.30am -11.30am    LTS  Week 8
Sat/Sun December27&28  MJ Nationals  held at BYRA

Bayview Yacht Racing Association
1842, Pittwater Road, Bayview


2021 Doggie Rescue Calendar

Monika's Doggie Rescue have just opened orders for their 2021 Superheroes calendar. Copies arrive at the shelter on Tuesday September 22nd.

This is the major fundraising activity for the whole year for this organisation to save all these darling dogs, cats, rabbits (and others) and these wonderful calendars make an excellent Christmas gift that brings delight to those you give it to all year round - for 12 months in fact!

Pittwater Online has already secured ours and no, we will not be handing them over should you miss out - staff and family have already put their hands up, and there will be howling, literally, should anyone find theirs has been 'reallocated'.



Inaugural Les Sculptures Refusées At Q-Station

While admiring the success of the Salon de Refusés a few months ago an idea that runs parallel to this concept to provide further exhibiting opportunities to the community was conceived by Artist Tania McMurtry. Tania approached other artists who did not get accepted by this year's Sculptures by the Sea, Bondi but who want to share their works with the community. Their response led to the Les Sculptures Refusées concept. From then, artist Tania McMurtry, with friend and close collaborator Simon Hodgson, aspired to provide further exhibiting opportunities to artists.

The open-air exhibition is an exciting new opportunity for the local community to experience creations by some of Australia’s best sculptors, with most situated by the property’s iconic Pier and Quarantine Beach. From 15 October – 19 November 2020, Les Sculptures Refusées will be open to all with free entry. 

Q Station’s charming G&Tea House will be operating from Friday to Sunday and serving tea-infused gin and tonic cocktails alongside sweet and savoury High Tea options, while live Sunset Sessions will be happening on the lawns every Saturday from 4 to 6pm.

Artists for this exhibition include revered Orest Keywan, Simon Hodgson, Anthony Battaglia, Paul Selwood, Ellenore Griffith and founder Tania McMurtry.
 
The sculptures will be judged by Katherine Roberts, Senior Curator at Manly Art Gallery & Museum Jo Neville, Q Station’s current Artist in Residence and Brian Tunks, Director at  Bisonhome.
 
The winner of the inaugural Most Outstanding Work will receive a Residency at Q Station in 2021.

The Inaugural exhibition of Les Sculptures Refusées will run October 15 to November 19, 2020 at the Q-Station. 

During Les Sculptures Refusées 2020 a free 40 minute tour will run each weekend day giving insights into the poignant stories of the immigrants and quarantine staff who spent time at the Quarantine Station.
 
Details : If Walls Could Talk Tour - 40mins
2pm starting from A9 Lawn in Wharf Precinct, Q Station
Saturdays and Sundays 17th October- 15th November 2020.
Free but must be pre-booked online as limited places are available.
Book in for Sunset Sessions here: www.qstation.com.au/les-sculptures-refusees

DoggieRescue.com

Pets Of The Week

Miles



AGE/SEX: 9 years / M
BREED: American Staffy X
Miles is a sweet gentle boy who was used as a guard dog and came to the pound with tight check chain around his neck and supposedly used as a “guard dog” in the past. He has lived with Ivy. Out walking he walks at a good pace, enjoys cuddles and sits on command. He will lunge at other dogs as he is not used to walking on lead. Walkers says "beautiful dog and gentle with people but doesn't like other dogs". He has a smooth coat and weighs 29kg. 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. 

Cassandra


Cassandra is a lovely and sweet calico girl that is approximately 8 years old (although she somehow managed to get her microchip form to say she is much younger!) She comes to greet our visitors and has a gentle affectionate nature. She enjoys pats and loves playing with string toys. She recently had a dental and she is in good health. She comes desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV/FeLV tested and microchipped. Her adoption fee is $220. If you are interested in meeting her, call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email cats@DoggieRescue.com. 

DOG WALKING is recommencing
DoggieRescue is delighted to announce restrictions have been lifted on walking at our shelter, we are looking forward to welcoming you back onsite. 

We have had some changes occur during COVID-19 that we want you to be aware of. We no longer require you to sign up in advance for dog walking. However, due to the large number of successful adoptions we have very few child friendly dogs available to walk so we may not be able to accommodate walking for your family at this point, also due to the sheer number of adoptions we have fewer dogs onsite who are ready to walk with the public. This means there may be a delay in getting a dog for you to walk. We ask for your patience with our team at this time. 

We continue to practise social distancing onsite and have plenty of hand sanitiser ready for your return.
We look forward to seeing familiar faces and welcoming new ones to our shelter and appreciate your ongoing support during these difficult times.

We are in urgent need of Topical Heartworm Treatment(Advocate or Revolution), Breeder’s Choice Cat Litter, cat food, cable ties and latex gloves.

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

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

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

Domestic Violence Support During Covid-19 

NB: Where to get help Fact Sheet is below. Simply click on PDF and 'save as' on your own device

People experiencing domestic violence can be assured police and frontline services are ready to support them and their families as NSW continues to respond to the coronavirus threat.

Member for Manly James Griffin said the Northern Beaches community should not hesitate to seek help and support at this time. 

“If you are in danger or in an emergency call Triple Zero (000),” Mr Griffin said. “If you are in need of support services, such as housing or counselling, our hard working frontline staff are also available to help those suffering domestic violence.”  

“No person, whether they live on the Northern Beaches or anywhere in Australia, should in live in fear of violence and I urge people to seek the help they need when it is safe to do so.”

Mr Griffin added that perpetrators are on notice and that police have increased efforts to combat violence in the home including more proactive operations to enforce protection orders. 

“Police will continue to conduct Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) compliance checks to keep victims safe.”

NSW Police Force Domestic Violence Corporate Spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Mark Jones, said police are monitoring rates of domestic violence. 

“High-risk and repeat offenders are being targeted by specially trained police to ensure that all orders are strictly followed and complied with and offenders are arrested if violence is detected,” Assistant Commissioner Jones said. 

“Police are also able to vary existing interim or final ADVOs if we know that violence is escalating, without needing to first go to court, so victims are immediately protected.

“NSW Police are working together with government agencies, including NSW Health, to ensure there is no increased health risk to the community in the current environment.”

The NSW Government is constantly adapting as the COVID-19 emergency evolves, which includes various justice, housing and policing responses to combat domestic violence.

Where to get help - March 2020.pdfWhere to get help - March 2020.pdf
Size : 465.979 Kb
Type : pdf

 

Click on logo above to visit their website.

Where You Can Get Tested In Our Area:

Mona Vale Hospital - Building 14, Community Health Centre, Coronation Street, Mona Vale. Please ring to register for testing.  PHONE: 9998 6296
Mona Vale Hospital message:  The recent changes to our mask guidelines means patients, carers and visitors are to wear a mask at our hospital.  Staff will also wear a mask when they are delivering care or when they can’t socially distance 1.5 metres. Open 9am-4:30pm, 7 days. 

Dee Why Respiratory Clinic - G/5 Mooramba Road, Dee Why. 8am-5pm Monday-Saturday
Booking required via (02) 8416 5005
Booking web address; https://www.hotdoc.com.au/medical-centres/dee-why-NSW-2099/dee-why-respiratory-clinic/doctors?purpose=respiratory

Brookvale Community Health Centre Clinic - 612-624 Pittwater Road, Brookvale. 8am-6pm 7 days. No booking required

Frenchs Forest Douglass Hanly Moir Pathology - 5 Forest Way, Frenchs Forest, 8am-4pm Monday to Friday. Booking required via 1800 026 622 or (02) 9111 3405

Frenchs Forest MedLab Pathology-  8 Hilmer Street, Frenchs Forest, 9am-4pm Monday to Friday, 9am-1pm Saturday No booking required.

North Narrabeen Clinical Labs Pathology - 1416 Pittwater Road, Narrabeen. 10am-4pm Monday to Friday. No booking required.

Northern Beaches Hospital - 105 Frenchs Forest Road (West), Frenchs Forest;  Rear of Emergency Department (secluded mental health entry) 8am- 5pm, 7 days - No booking required.
Drive directly to the clinic by following the signs, please do not use the main car park.  
For people walking or travelling by public transport, follow the red line outside the hospital, then ring the Emergency Department intercom and they will be escorted to the clinic  for testing. 

PATIENTS: We are now temperature checking all staff and visitors ahead of elective surgery returning to the hospital next week. These checks will help us ensure the safety of our staff and visitors during this time.
Entry is via the main entrance or emergency department and all other entry points are closed. There is also screening at the dock for deliveries. The team conducting the checks will take temperatures and ask a few simple questions about wellbeing and possible contact with COVID-19.
Please be patient with our staff conducting the checks.
If you have a high temperature (37.5C or above) or have been unwell with a new cough, sore throat or difficulty breathing, you should call the COVID-19 hotline or visit our COVID-19 clinic for assessment.  


VISITORS: To ensure the safety of all patients and staff, we need to limit the number of visitors to our hospitals and services. Patients will be asked to nominate one visitor, preferably your next of kin, for the duration of your hospital stay. We understand this will difficult for families, but we need everyone to help to protect patients and staff.

Visitors must NOT have travelled overseas in the last 14 days, NOT been in close contact with a person who has been diagnosed positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days, or have fever, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath. 

Visitors to Patient with COVID-19 (or awaiting results)
In order to provide strict infection control, no visitors will be allow to patients who have a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 or those awaiting test results for COVID-19. We understand there will need to be some exceptions to this, especially with children and also with extremely unwell patients, so we ask that you talk to your families and if you have any questions, please speak to your clinical care team. 

Mask requirements: In line with NSW Health guidelines, please note all patients will be required to wear a mask when presenting to the hospital and when outside of their rooms. Visitors must wear a mask before entering the hospital. Please bring a mask from home where possible.​


Speed Humps On McCarrs Creek Rd: Please Share Wildlife Data 

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

It records the GPS position, date, sex, species. Photos can be added as they help in identification
The data is then forwarded to OEH and Transport NSW as it can help establish the best places to place  mitigation. Thanking you all in advance for your help with this.

Please Register Wildlife Road Strikes

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

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

Sharing Our Streets To Help Local Businesses

Friday, 9 October 2020
Council are excited to be able to roll out a series of road closures to activate recreational and commercial areas over the coming months.

It is well known the impact that Covid-19 has had on our hospitality industry, reducing numbers of patrons at many of our restaurants and cafes. 

This initiative will provide an opportunity to create places for people to support our local venues and help bring communities together in a safe and relaxing way, increasing outdoor dining and car-free areas for walking and cycling.

The pilot street closures will take place in the following locations:
  • Tania Park, Balgowlah Heights - Sunday 11 October, 6am – 4pm, Sunday 15 November, 6am – 9.30am  and Sunday 13 December, 6am – 9.30am
  • The Strand, Dee Why – Wednesday 28 October, 10pm – Monday 2 November, 12noon 
  • Robertson Road, Newport – Friday 13 November (evening) - Sunday 15 November
  • Waratah Street, Mona Vale – Thursday 19 November, 10pm to Monday 23 November, 10am
This project has been made possible from funding through the NSW Government’s ‘Streets as Shared Space program’. The program awards grants to NSW councils to install temporary activation projects that support communities during the pandemic and tests ideas for future installations.

Extra Cleaning Over Summer

Friday, 9 October 2020
Council will ramp up cleansing services over summer to supplement its COVID-19 summer safety plan, and cater for larger than usual crowds.

Extra cleaning teams and more bins at popular public spaces, like beaches, are being set in place for the warm months ahead.

Additional services are scheduled for the bins along patrolled beaches over summer. These bins will be emptied twice or three times every day in some locations depending on the crowds and weather.

Extra cleansing staff will be scheduled to work additional shifts from early morning until 8pm, particularly on peak days.

If anyone notices any overflowing bins they can be reported to Council on 1300 434 434 any time and day.

Creating Places For People: Public Space Vision And Design Guidelines Open For Comment

Tuesday, 6 October 2020
Northern Beaches Council is seeking community feedback on a new set of guidelines that will improve the design of public spaces in the Northern Beaches.

The Public Space Vision and Design Guidelines aim to provide consistency in the planning and ‘look and feel’ of public spaces, using the principles of best practice urban design, while also respecting the individual character of our unique centres and villages.

Mayor Michael Regan said the guidelines will simplify the separate sets of rules used by the three separate councils prior to amalgamation.

“Our new urban design guidelines will direct how we complement the unique character and identity of public places in our community,” Cr Regan said.

“Putting people at the centre of all our urban design is fundamental. We want to create public places where people can connect, feel safe and reach a sense of belonging.

“Local character is what makes an area distinctive. It is the interplay of land use and built form, public and private spaces and cultural heritage.”

As well as prioritising spaces for people, the guidelines give precedence to key environmental priorities and focus on trees and water-sensitive designs.

Earlier, limited pre-testing of the guidelines attracted 235 comments from community members – with overall positive feedback.

Six key objectives form the foundation of the guidelines which are derived from state government public domain targets and previous engagement with the community.

The six objectives are:
  • Enhance and protect the bush, beach & water character;
  • Encourage social activation through street design;
  • Inspire healthy and active lifestyles through safe & inclusive footpath & cycleway networks;
  • Implement traffic calming interventions to create safe environments;
  • Integrate water sensitive urban design into streets and open spaces; and
  • Increase canopy cover on streets.
Submissions on the Public Space Vision and Design Guidelines close on 1 November, 2020. Go to Council’s Your Say web page for more details.

Call For Volunteers To Keep Our Beaches Open And COVID-Free This Summer

Tuesday, 6 October 2020
Northern Beaches Council is calling for expressions of interest for people to become Volunteer COVID Safety Ambassadors to help keep the community safe and healthy this summer.

In conjunction with Council’s COVID-19 Summer Action Plan for Outdoor Public Spaces, volunteers would interact with visitors at popular coastal locations reminding them of social distancing requirements.

Mayor Michael Regan said Council has worked hard to support keeping beaches and popular places open this summer, but the community has to do its bit to make that happen.

“Our plan specifies ways we will monitor crowd numbers and keep public spaces and beaches at safe capacity,” Cr Regan said.

”Volunteers will be important to support the teams of lifeguards and lifesavers who will be actively giving friendly reminders and updates to people about social distancing and gathering sizes.

“We have all seen examples of where volunteer ambassadors have worked well at sporting events, like the local rugby, and being respected as they asked people to maintain suitable distance.

“Volunteers would perform a similar role to those at the Sydney Olympics, providing a friendly face to crowd management, which then helps free up lifeguards and lifesavers to focus on the water.

“We all want to play a part to keep our beaches in particular open for summer.

This is a great way for us to help our community and those that visit to keep us safe in the water, and keep the beaches open for a swim,” he said

Times, locations and days are flexible and training and a uniform will be provided.

To express an interest in becoming a Volunteer COVID Safety Ambassador, click here.

Beach Safety Working Group Inaugural Meeting

Thursday, 1 October 2020
Northern Beaches Council today convened the first of weekly meetings with local authorities to deliver a coordinated response to beach management this summer.

Representatives of Council, NSW Police, Surf Lifesaving and NSW Health attended.

Attendees confirmed the purpose of working group is to provide effective management of the Northern Beaches public spaces with respect to COVID-19.

It is to predict and respond to issues as they arise in order to keep our beaches, reserves, parks, walking trails and other public spaces open and safe for the enjoyment and wellbeing of the community while adhering to NSW Public Health Orders and recommendations.

Mayor Michael Regan said it was critical to have all working together to get the best outcomes for the community.

“We all want to keep our beaches open this summer but we have to be mindful of keeping the risk of COVID to a minimum.

“This working group will coordinate the response to beaches across the whole Northern Beaches area, identify any issues or emerging hotspots and ensure we have the right people and processes in place to ensure they don’t escalate.

“As always, we are asking the community to support our efforts by adhering to the health orders, keeping that towel length apart, gathering in groups no larger than 20 and staying home if you are unwell.

“As a community, we have done so well to get to a point where we have no community transmissions or even active cases on the Northern Beaches. We have all seen how quickly that can change - that’s why we all have to remain vigilant and keep COVID-safe through the busy summer period.”

Council Supports The Local Community With $280,000 In Grants

Friday, 2 October 2020
Council has approved $280,000 in Community Development, Arts and Creativity as well as Environmental grants for this financial year.

Council’s Community Grants Program supports projects and initiatives that deliver direct benefits to the local community and the environment of the Northern Beaches. It provides grants of up to $10,000 to eligible individuals and organisations to support projects and initiatives to be delivered by 31 December 2021.

Of the $280,000 awarded, $240,000 was shared between the Arts and Creativity and Community Development grants and $40,000 went towards Environmental grants.

Council approved $95,250 in Arts and Creativity grants and $97,566 in Community Development grants. In the previous financial year, five grants were awarded for funding over three years. $47,184 was allocated this year for the second year of this multi-year funding.

Mayor Regan said the number of grant applications received this year far exceeded Council’s grants allocation in the budget.

“We received more than $1.8 million in eligible applications to come from an allocated budget of $280,000, so it was super competitive. We were only able to fund about 20% of the eligible applications. There were many quality submissions, so some difficult decisions needed to be made.

“We believe COVID has had an obvious impact contributing significantly to the high level of applications this year. In the past six months, we have seen an increased demand for community-based programs and activities in the areas of mental health, community support services and in the creative sector.

“The funding of these grants will have a significant positive impact on our local community.”

Council’s Community Grants Program commenced in 2018/19.

Tenders Called To Transform Mona Vale Surf Life Saving Club

Wednesday, 30 September 2020
Northern Beaches Council last night agreed to call for tenders to construct the Mona Vale Surf Lifesaving Club, bringing the long-awaited project another step closer to fruition.

Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan said the community has had considerable input to this much-needed asset that has seen three stages of public consultation since the project was approved to commence in 2016.

“Over 98 years the Mona Vale SLC has a history deeply rooted in the community. Membership has boomed from 700 to 1100 people in a decade, but the clubhouse is now inadequate for a growing club and is restricting broader use in the Mona Vale community,” Cr Regan said.

“Development of the new facility has been a very positive and strong collaboration between Mona Vale SLC, the local community, Northern Beaches Council and the State Government.

“The new building will be on the existing site over two levels, with an expanded floor space that will provide valuable services to the community and significantly benefit our professional and volunteer lifeguards.

“It will include a cafe, restaurant, nippers’ facilities, storage for the local board riders club, function space, a first aid room, family change facilities and improved accessibility with a particular focus on minimising its environmental impacts, such as the use of solar panels and recycling rainwater.

“Thanks to Mona Vale Surf Life Saving Club who has worked closely with Council to ensure this vital asset will soon be available to its members and the wider community for decades to come.

“The new clubhouse will mean our lifesavers will have fit-for-purpose facilities so they can focus on saving lives and supporting their community.”

An earlier public consultation found that 94 per cent of the community supported the draft concept design and was well supported.

The tender will be run prior to Christmas, with construction expected to start in March 2021.

Progress is also well underway for the new Long Reef Surf Lifesaving Club with the tender expected to go out shortly. It is hoped that construction will commence in early 2021.


Wharf Upgrades For Scotland Island

Wednesday, 30 September 2020
Northern Beaches Council will soon begin upgrade work on the Bell and Carols wharves on Scotland Island.

Council, at its meeting last night, approved the $2.2 million works, which will commence later this year.

This project is jointly funded by Transport for NSW and Council as part of the Boating Now program which is the NSW Government’s $98 million program to support initiatives which improve the boating experience in NSW, including the delivery of recreational boating infrastructure such as boat ramps, jetties, pontoons and sewage pump-out facilities.

The upgrades include the construction of a multi-purpose floating pontoon at both Bell Wharf and Carols Wharf as well as repairs to the existing fixed wharves.

Mayor Michael Regan said the works will provide safer access to public transport as well as provide additional facilities for private commuter and recreational boating.

“The upgraded facilities will provide much needed infrastructure to a community who rely on the wharves to access the mainland.”

Works on Bell and Carols wharves is likely to be finished around the middle of 2021.


Cr. Candy Bingham Re-Elected Deputy Mayor

Wednesday, 30 September 2020
Councillor Candy Bingham was last night re-elected Deputy Mayor of Northern Beaches Council.

Cr Bingham, who represents the Manly Ward, will hold the post of Deputy Mayor for the remainder of the Council term until 4 September, 2021, when full Council elections will be held.

The term for the position of Deputy Mayor expired on 11 September, but had to go to re-election because the State Government postponed council elections scheduled for 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic disruption.

Mayor Michael Regan congratulated Cr Bingham on her re-election.

“Candy continues to bring her breadth of experience to Council, having been involved in local government for many years.

“She is a committed and passionate advocate for her ward and also for the whole Northern Beaches.

“She is not afraid to make the hard decisions in the best interests of her community,” Cr Regan said.

Councillor Bingham is a third generation Manly-ite who served as an independent councillor with Manly Council from 2012-2016. With 30 years of management experience including running her own public relations agency, Candy is also the author of five books including the Australian and New Zealand public relations manual which is the recognised text for public relations in both countries.

Councillor Bingham has served on numerous council committees such as Waste Management, Arts & Heritage, Audit & Risk and Community Safety and Public Domains. She has also worked on fundraising committees for the Manly Women’s Shelter, Manly Rotary and Pioneer Clubhouse and was head of fundraising for the Save our Sea Nymphs project to reinstate the iconic sculpture at Fairy Bower Pool which was destroyed by storms in June 2016. She also enjoys ocean swimming, bush walking and local history.

Local Scientists Wanted

Organisations and individuals on the Northern Beaches with ideas for exciting National Science Week events for next year are being encouraged to apply for a grant to make their idea a reality. 

Member for Mackellar, Jason Falinski MP said preparations for next year’s annual festival of science are now underway, with grants of up to $20,000 available for those who are ready to inspire Australia’s next generation of big picture thinkers. 

“The idea is to make science fun and accessible to everyone and I urge qualified local people with good ideas to put them forward for grants,” Mr Falinski said. 
“Successful grant applications will mean that you can have a positive impact on your community and set an example for others. Let’s get involved and show what the Northern Beaches can do!”

“This year’s event organisers showed incredible ingenuity in delivering their events online due to COVID-19 restrictions. It was great to see people from all over the country come together to participate in virtual tours, online events and DIY science and citizen science projects.”

National Science Week will run from 14 - 22 August 2021 and is Australia’s largest festival with over a million people participating in thousands of events each year.

Applications for 2021 National Science Week grants are now open, and close on 28 October 2020. 

To apply for a grant, or read the updated grant opportunity guidelines, go to https://www.business.gov.au/nswkg  

To find out more about National Science Week go to www.scienceweek.net.au

Avalon Boomerang Bags Workshop News

New Tuesday workshop times in the Avalon Recreation Centre 11am - 3pm. All are welcome, if you can't sew we will teach you.

Bags and plastic free reusable goodies are for sale during the workshops so please pop in.

Remember there is no excuse for single use plastics, even during wretched COVID19, and washed reusables are best. Do our ocean, waves and beaches a favour and BYO bags, bottles, cups and straws.



Help Harvest NSW

The agriculture industry is facing a significant labour shortage as a result of COVID-19.
If you are looking for employment opportunities, now is a great time to consider agriculture and farm work. Learning how food is produced and harvested is an exciting regional experience.

The agriculture industry has a range of jobs on offer including fruit picking, grain harvesting and working on a cattle station. 

Farmers will be able to capitalise on what is predicted to be the best harvest in many years, with the launch on Monday August 24th of a new one-stop resource which will help the agriculture industry overcome a COVID-induced labour shortage and get unemployed Australians into critical work.

Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall announced the launch of the ‘Help Harvest NSW’ website today, which will connect unemployed Australians with farm work opportunities across the State as part of the NSW Government’s COVID Recovery Plan.

With NSW at the forefront of this year’s big winter crop comeback after drought and horticulture about six weeks from harvest, Mr Marshall said it was critical to act now as there would be a shortage of between 3,500 and 5,000 workers needed in the state.

“Farmers are desperate to find contractors and employees willing to work to make the most of the bumper harvest we’re about to have,” Mr Marshall said.

“A high volume of primary industries labour generally comes from overseas and due to COVID-19 international travel restrictions there simply isn’t the number of farm workers the ag industry needs at the moment.

“The Help Harvest NSW website will help to overcome this challenge by connecting job-seeking Australians with agricultural work opportunities in NSW.

“I want to see more Aussies climb off the couch and get out into the regions where there’s plenty of good paying work on until the end of the year.

“At a time when we are just beginning to emerge from drought, our State’s farmers cannot afford to miss out on the financial uplift that comes from a strong harvest.”

With higher than average unemployment due to COVID-19, Mr Marshall said that ‘Help Harvest NSW’ was a way to get the State’s workforce moving again.

“Never before and never again will Australians have a better chance to take up farm work, earn a decent wage and see first-hand our beautiful regions where the food we buy every day from the supermarket is produced,” Mr Marshall said.

“My message to the increasing number of people looking for a job at the moment is this: get off your bum and get into agriculture – we need you.

“Take a look at Help Harvest NSW and see what job opportunities are around the corner.”

Browse the job boards and recruitment services here: 


'Daryung': An Exhibition By North Side Aboriginal Artists (NSAA) Comes To Curl Curl Creative Space

Thursday, 1 October 2020 - 11:00am to Saturday, 17 October 2020 - 4:00pm
‘Daryung’ brings together a group of contemporary creatives living and working on the North side of Sydney. 


Sheridan Bird, 'Yarning mat', lomandra and raffia, 2020

Featuring artists Clair Jackson, Sheriden Bird, Kim Cameron Wenzlick, Tegan Murdock, Emma Hicks, and Jessica Birk, with writers Julie Janson and Lorraine McGee Sippel, the exhibition features new works, inspired by place and local flora and fauna, and explores themes of belonging and connection to the land.

'Daryung' evolved from a desire by these artists to share their unique stories and present a diversity of artistic practice, from weaving, painting, graphite rubbings, and clay works, to poetry. 

Creative Space
105 Abbott Rd,
North Curl Curl 

September 27 - October 10, 2020: Issue 468

This Issue: 

Front Page Issue 468 

TRIBUTES FOR ROBERT DUNN

Aquatics Surf Patrol Season Kicks Off: The Raising Of The Flags 2020

Pictures Stapleton Park Reserve In Spring 2020: An Urban Ark Of Plants Found Nowhere Else -  photos by A J Guesdon


Launch Of COVID Safe Summer Plan By NSW State Government + Announcements made this week including; School, Sport And Music Restrictions Relaxed, Capacity Increase For Entertainment Venues and Extra Financial Support For Tenants And Landlords 

Tales From Isolation: Your Side Are Delivering Care To The Elderly, People Living With A Disability + Those Dealing With Mental Health Challenges - Explore Their Social Support Calendar 

Park Bench Philosopher Landmark Release Sees Bilbies Return To Sturt National Park In NSW

Reflections by George Repin: KOTOR, MONTENEGRO

Profile Narrabeen Amateur Swimming Club (NASC)
Website: www.narrabeenasc.com.au 

Facebook page: facebook.com/NarrabeenASC

Narrabeen Amateur Swim Club has been part of our area for almost 60 years and is located in the tidal rock pool at North Narrabeen Beach. Their 2020-2021 Season commences October 10th and people are able to sign up now to be part of a long Summer of great swim meets. 

This Issue President Brody O'Mara shares an overview of the NASC for those wanting to find a great place and group to enjoy their swimming with - this is a family-friendly community focused club where the emphasis is on fun!

A place of timber-getters from earliest European settlement days, Church Point and its deeper soils became a veritable garden of Eden once enough trees had been cleared from the lands - peaches, potatoes, bananas, grapes, citrus fruits - all of the finest quality according to scores of early newspaper reports, flourished on the hillsides and in the byways alongside and to and even beside McCarrs Creek. This was essentially a 'water access' place, with the deeper bays allowing timber felled or produce grown to be shipped south via the coast to 'Sydney Town'. Later on it was still the offshore living and byways that predominated - fishing, oyster culture, the growing of tropical fruits alongside those that do better in colder climes, that need that coolness to produce perfection. By 1882 a road had been established though, handbuilt by those who lived there.

Books October 2020: How Birds Behave: Interpreting What They Do And Why by Wenfei Tong, The Ways of the Bushwalker: On foot in Australia by Melissa Harper, Hold On!; Saving The Spotted Handfish by Gina Newton and Rachel Tribout, More Hands On Science: 50 Amazing Kids' Activities From CSIRO edited by: David Shaw, Jasmine Fellows, Kath Kovac

Old Books: Spring 2020 - read in full here, online: New South Wales, Its Progress and Resources by New South Wales Commission to the International exhibition, Philadelphia, 1876; Centennial Exhibition (1876 : Philadelphia, Pa.). New South Wales, Technological Museum, Sydney, N.S.W  by Technological Museum (Sydney, N.S.W.) Published 1910, Stories Of Old Sydney  by Charles Henry Bertie, Illustrated by Sydney Ure Smith Published 1912 by Angus & Robertson

Artist of the Month October 2020: Pamela Ann Griffith

Pamela Griffith - Wollongong Then And Now

An exhibition of Illawarra landscapes painted by Pamela Griffith in 2019, and photographs from the collection by Charles Kerry depicting the same locations some 130 years apart. 

In continuing the Pittwater Online focus on encouraging residents to get out of Pittwater and visit and support our regional areas and peoples during a very challenging year, for the 2020 Spring School Holidays an insight into a wonderful Australian Artist with local connections could not be passed up - we wanted to run this earlier in 2020 and are thrilled that the time has now come!

Pamela Griffith visits our area regularly to spend time with her daughter, also a mum, and Academic, Design Thinker, Entrepreneur, Public Speaker, Board Director and ex-Pittwater Councillor Selena Griffith. Pamela is also visiting our area to develop a project along similar lines to the current Pamela Griffith - Wollongong Then and Now exhibition and was thrilled to hear from the Editor of Pittwater Online that Mr. Kerry visited and photographed everywhere along our peninsula, including the newly gazetted Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park - and was one of several early Australian photographers to do so, including Robert Hunt, Henry King, Charles Bayliss, Samuel Woods, E A Macpherson, Rex Hazlewood and even a resident of here in Arthur Vogan, and many others. Mr. Kerry was a frequent visitor to our area and one of the gentlemen behind a scheme to run motor omnibuses to Pittwater, as announced at the official opening of George Brock's 'The Oaks' at Mona Vale in 1906. His images illuminate many a History page run here and show the changes between the landscapes of early Pittwater and what is present now.

More on that project, and Pamela, as it comes to fruition!!

In the meantime - if you fancy a train trip or journey by road to Wollongong now is the time to do it. By train the scenery is marvellous and if you go by road you can take in the magical engineered Sea Cliff Bridge. This feature segment of the Grand Pacific Drive has quickly become an international icon. Port Kembla Harbour is going though a transformation and there are the marvellous rock pools and sandy beaches along the way, and of course, Spring is a great time for a landscape artist to capture the stunning beauty of the Illawarra should you wish to head south to develop your practice.

For over 50 years Pamela Griffith has made aspects of the Australian landscape the prime subject of her art. Her closeness to her grandparents who grew up in Wollongong and came from pioneering families in the area encouraged Pamela to paint a series of works on this beautiful city as a process of getting to know the family history. By showing Griffith’s paintings and etchings in conjunction with the colonial photographer Charles Kerry, that are part of the Galleries permanent collection, this exhibition enables the viewer to simultaneously look at both times past and time present. It is possible therefore to imagine a future time when a viewer will see Griffith’s work as a unique record of the Illawarra in the years leading up to 2020 and marvel at how times have changed.

Covid19 prevented the exhibition opening in March and the Gallery was closed until July 1st. Already many people have visited the exhibition and have allowed time to enjoy both the 19th century photography and Griffith’s delightful works on canvas, etchings and watercolours. Her work ranges from the landscape of the Illawarra and its natural life to the edges of the Royal National Park in the north. In the south it stops near Windang beach, taking in Lake Illawarra along the way. Ever-present is the backdrop of the escarpment with the wonderful blue-greens of the slopes. Her large study of Governor Game Lookout near Garie Beach shows off the vivid colour of the Gymea Lilies against the clear blues of sky and sea. 

It is not surprising that this outstanding show has been kept on display by the gallery for more people to be able to see it, but Pamela Griffith - Wollongong Then and Now will close on the 25th of October - so if you want to see the works in their place and then wander through their physical landscapes - head south this October and enjoy a taste of Wollongong and an Illawarra Spring.

Environment 600+ School Strike For Climate Events Take Place In Biggest-Ever National Action Against Gas,  Stapleton Reserve 2020: An Urban Ark Of Plants Found Nowhere Else, We accidentally found a whole new genus of Australian daisies; You’ve probably seen them on your bushwalks, Watch Out On The Pittwater Estuary Water Zones & Beaches: Seals Are About, Bennett's Beach Church Point, ORRCA Spring Migration Survey, Council's Crown Reserve Land Categorisation: Seeking Your Input, The Forest Flora Of New South Wales: 1917, Tick Population Booming In Our Area, Echidna season, Shorebirds booklet, Community Gardens and Environment Groups, Pittwater Reserves++

Inbox News Potential Drug Target For Dangerous E. Coli Infections Identified: UNSW, NSW Leads The Way On Agricultural Workers’ Code, Help Harvest NSW, When Does A Second COVID-19 Surge End?, This Tiny Device Can Scavenge Wind Energy From The Breeze You Make When You Walk

Children Stapleton Reserve 2020: An Urban Ark Of Plants Found Nowhere Else, At Home with Brie; A New Podcast Connecting Kids To Kids!, Spring School Holidays, Not Gen Z; Gen Zoom!, Outback Brothers Go The Distance As Writers, The Wiggles: Space Dancing, Curious Kids: how do voices come out of our mouths?, Land Before Time: The Lone Dinosaur Returns - School Holidays Movie, Shaun The Sheep: ChampionSheeps, Strawberry Shortcake: Hot Sauce Cook Off, RPAYC Youth Out There Program, Spring School Holiday Art at the Sydney Art Space (at Mona Vale), Book Of The Month: Charles Dickens' Children Stories, Archive Of Millions Of Historical Children’s Books All Digitised, Local Sports Clubs for you!

Youth Class Of 2020 Year 12 Graduation Ceremonies: Congratulations and Well Done!, Free Online HSC Exam Revision Lectures, 600+ School Strike For Climate Events Take Place In Biggest-Ever National Action Against Gas,  Stapleton Reserve 2020: An Urban Ark Of Plants Found Nowhere Else, We accidentally found a whole new genus of Australian daisies; You’ve probably seen them on your bushwalks, Guide to the classics: A Room of One’s Own, Virginia Woolf’s feminist call to arms, Friday essay: who was Jeanne Barret, the first woman to circumnavigate the globe?, Guide to the Classics: The Secret Garden and the healing power of nature, Explainer: what is storyboarding for film?, RPAYC Youth Out There Program, Over 50 Artists Join Great Southern Nights Music Event, Students To Help Shape Future Of Education, Sydney Art Space (at Mona Vale) Spring School Holidays classes, Opportunity: Students Encouraged To Apply For Award In Fisheries Conservation Research, Year 11 and HSC update by NESA, ‘Help Harvest NSW' Launched To Help Secure Ag Workers To Bumper Harvest...

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: September 25, 2020

Click on Logo to access latest PON:  

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Pittwater Online Spring School Holiday Issues 2020

Please note that Issue 468 will be published Sunday September 27th and Issue 469 will be published Sunday October 11th. There will be no Issue on Sunday October 4th as staff take a break to spend with their pint-sized loved ones.

Thank you very much - we hope all have a lovely Spring Break.

Daylight Saving Reminder

Daylight saving will begin at 2am on Sunday 4 October 2020 when clocks go forward one hour,
and ends at 3:00 am on Sunday, 4 April 2021, when clocks are put back one hour.


28 Meditations For Lifeline NB

Join the 28 for TWENTY EIGHT in October (Mental Health Month) - 28 days of meditation (10 mins a day) and raise $28 for Lifeline. 

WHEN: SAT 6.30am 
WHERE: 13 locations (click website below for more details)
WHO: Everyone!  (including first timers) 
WHY: Connection and Community is so important right now :  connect to self, connect to nature and connect to each other! 


Making Meditation Mainstream is a community movement and registered not for profit. We proudly support Lifeline Northern Beaches and Lifeline. 

Reminder For Kite/Windsurfers On Sydney Harbour - Manly Cove

The Acting Manager for Sydney Harbour at NSW Maritime has contacted Australian Sailing with the request for sailors to be reminded of the restrictions on Kitesurfing and Sailboarding (Windsurfing) on the waters of Port Jackson/Sydney Harbour under the Marine Safety General Regulation 2016 - Schedule 5 -Waters in which kitesurfing and sailboarding prohibited. This includes kite surfing or windsurfing of the foiling variety. 

Waters in which kitesurfing prohibited

The waters of Port Jackson, including the waters of all tidal bays, rivers and their tributaries connected or leading to Sydney Harbour bounded by high water mark and lying to the west of a line commencing at the southernmost point of North Head and running to the northernmost point of South Head. 

Waters in which kitesurfing and sailboarding prohibited

(1) A person must not engage in kitesurfing in any waters specified in Part 1 of Schedule 5. (See map below)

(2) A person must not engage in sailboarding: (a) in any waters shown on the map set out in Part 2 of Schedule 5, or (b) within the fifth and sixth spans from the northern end of the bridge known as the Ryde Road Bridge located approximately 140 metres upstream from Mortlake Point, or Page 16 Marine Safety Regulation 2016 [NSW] Part 2 Safety of navigation Published LW 10 June 2016 (2016 No 308) (c) within the third and fourth spans from the northern end of the bridge known as the Ryde Rail Bridge located approximately 210 metres upstream from Mortlake Point, or (d) within 50 metres of any public wharf. 

The maximum penalty for breaching these regulations is 50 penalty units 1 penalty unit = $110

Please see the map below of the specific areas in which sailboarding (windsurfing) is prohibited

National Safe Boating Week In Australia And New Zealand

26 September - 2 October 2020
When the industry forefathers started the Association in the 1960s, they were quick to acknowledge that educating the public about Boating Safety was an important part of its charter.

The Boating Industry Association, through its communication and Boat Shows has always deemed this process as important and necessary.

Safe Boating is Good Boating and as such we are pleased to support the efforts of Australia New Zealand Safe Boating Education Group (ANZSBEG) who this week will also coordinate activities for National Safe Boating Week.

Keep an eye out for these important messages.

Discover Boating Australia

Discover Boating was launched this week to provide boaters, new and old, with a whole lot of information to help them get on the water, or to improve their time on the water.

The website has been developed with some great contributions from some of Australia's leading boating journalists and others who are simply passionate about the water.

The Discover Boating Team have a long list of additions still to come and we look forward to bringing those to you in the coming months.

You too can contribute to the page. Have a look and let us know if there is something you would like to share. In particular, have a look at "Places to Go Boating" - send us some text and good quality pictures.

We have also launched BOAT TV. If you know of a quality YouTube or Vimeo channel you believe is worthy of inclusion, drop us a note.

Boating Industry Association

Recent Development Applications

DA2020/1179: Mona Vale
Demolition works and Construction of Seniors Housing Development 
Numbers 40 & 38 Park Street and 1789 to 1797 Pittwater Road, Mona Vale
Submitted: 21/09/2020. Cost of Work:$ 2,929,695

DA2020/1039: Warriewood
15 Jubilee Avenue WARRIEWOOD 
New - Use of premises as a Passenger Transport Facility (Bus Depot). Will include 12,500 litre fuel tank on site. Projected 110 staff and 10 car parking spaces for these.
Cost of Work:$ 3,200,000.

DA2020/1172: Newport
Bardo Road. Cost of Work:$ 3,239,751
Submitted: 18/09/2020.

DA2020/1083: Narrabeen, Pittwater Road
Use of premises as a café and extended hours of operation
Submitted: 14/09/2020.

Planning proposal - Rezoning - 4 Bellara Ave., North Narrabeen 
Description - Rezone property from SP2 Infrastructure to R2 Low Density Residential, and apply a 550sqm minimum lot size to the property. 

Avalon Boomerang Bags Workshop News

New Tuesday workshop times in the Avalon Recreation Centre 11am - 3pm. All are welcome, if you can't sew we will teach you.

No workshops during the school holidays on the 29th September and the 6th October.

Bags and plastic free reusable goodies are for sale during the workshops so please pop in.

Remember there is no excuse for single use plastics, even during wretched COVID19, and washed reusables are best. Do our ocean, waves and beaches a favour and BYO bags, bottles, cups and straws.



Belrose Rural Fire Brigade AGM

September 2020
Belrose would like to congratulate all members who have been appointed to operational and administrative positions for the coming year at our AGM. We were privileged to have ex captain, current commissioner and, more importantly, current Belrose member Rob Rogers attend this year's AGM. To top it off, at the conclusion of the meeting, both our trucks responded to assist ambulance in a rescue in Killarney Heights.



Commissioner Rob Rogers AFSM

Commissioner Rob Rogers first became involved with the NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) in 1979 as a volunteer member of the Belrose Rural Fire Brigade, before being appointed Deputy Fire Control Officer for the Greater Taree District in 1995.

Mr Rogers has held various executive roles in the NSW RFS since 2001, including responsibility for Regional Management, Community Safety and Operations.

In 2011 he was appointed Deputy Commissioner.

He represents the NSW RFS on national and state bodies including: Chair of the Australian Fire Danger Ratings Board; Chair of the State Bush Fire Arson Taskforce; Chair of the Aviation Industry Reference Group and Aviation Advisory Committee; Co-chair of the Incident Management Road Safety Working Group; and Co-chair of the Joint Operations Taskforce.

During the most recent devastating fire season, Commissioner Rogers, oversaw the statewide response to more than 11,400 bush and grass fires that burnt more than 5.5 million hectares, destroyed 2,448 homes and tragically took 25 lives.

Commissioner Rogers was awarded the National Medal in 1995 and the Australian Fire Service Medal in 2004.

Commissioner Rogers was formally appointed to the role of Commissioner in July 2020.

Photos courtesy Belrose RFB

'Daryung': An Exhibition By North Side Aboriginal Artists (NSAA) Comes To Curl Curl Creative Space

Thursday, 1 October 2020 - 11:00am to Saturday, 17 October 2020 - 4:00pm
‘Daryung’ brings together a group of contemporary creatives living and working on the North side of Sydney. 


Sheridan Bird, 'Yarning mat', lomandra and raffia, 2020

Featuring artists Clair Jackson, Sheriden Bird, Kim Cameron Wenzlick, Tegan Murdock, Emma Hicks, and Jessica Birk, with writers Julie Janson and Lorraine McGee Sippel, the exhibition features new works, inspired by place and local flora and fauna, and explores themes of belonging and connection to the land.

'Daryung' evolved from a desire by these artists to share their unique stories and present a diversity of artistic practice, from weaving, painting, graphite rubbings, and clay works, to poetry. 

Creative Space
105 Abbott Rd,
North Curl Curl 

Navigation Restriction - Lovett Bay, Elvina Bay, McCarrs Creek, Scotland Island, Church Point, Pittwater

(Marine Safety Act 1998 s.12)
Lovett Bay, Elvina Bay, McCarrs Creek, Scotland Island, Church Point, Pittwater
NBN SUBMARINE CABLE INSTALLATION
August to October 2020

THE WORKS
Vessel operators are advised that essential construction works associated with the installation of NBN submarine cables will be conducted in a number of the Western bays of Pittwater, including Lovett Bay, Elvina Bay, McCarrs Creek, and from Carols Wharf Scotland Island to the Cargo Wharf at Church Point. These works will be conducted from August to October 2020. 

NAVIGATION WARNING
During this time a barge will be temporarily anchored in various locations throughout this area while works is conducted.

Vessel operators are advised to exercise extreme caution when navigating in the vicinity of the works and any associated vessels. The location of the barge and works area will be marked by 4 yellow marker buoys that are positioned 40 metres apart in a rectangle with flashing beacons. These markers will surround and move with the barge and associated vessels for the duration on the construction works.
During this period there will be other construction works carried out within the area and vessel operators are reminded to operate at a safe speed, maintain a proper  lookout and minimise wash around barges while work is conducted.

DIRECTIONS
TfNSW advises:  
Vessels are required to maintain a safe distance and speed from the works and operators are reminded that the production of wash which impacts unreasonably on the works is an offence (Marine Safety Regulation – clause 11(2)) - Maximum Penalty $5,500.00)

Persons within the vicinity of the works must comply with any directions given by a Boating Safety Officer or Police Officer in relation to the works or to marine safety. Failure to comply with any such direction is an offence (Marine Safety Act 1998, s.15A - Maximum Penalty $3,300.00).

MAPS & CHARTS AFFECTED
TfNSW Maritime Boating Map – 9A
For further information concerning this Navigation Advice, please contact the TfNSW Senior Boating Safety Officer, Hawkesbury/Broken Bay on phone: 0409 655 867
MARINE NOTICE SY2015


Access For People To The Beach

Randwick City Council received this beautiful picture and note from Carmela, Zac's mum. 



Carmela said: 
"Thank you so much for providing accessibility for all - especially our little boy Zac who has a spinal cord injury. He had the best day walking independently to the shore at Malabar beach." 

Go Zac! Well done Randwick Council!

Photo courtesy Zac's mum and Randwick Council

Youth Action Projects Grants Now Open: Federal Gov.

The Youth Action Projects Grant Scheme is now open to individuals and organisations supporting activities important to young Australians.

The Australian Government understands the unprecedented impact COVID-19 and last summer’s bushfire season has had on young Australians.

Minister for Youth and Sport, Richard Colbeck, said the targeted scheme was an opportunity for individuals and organisations to apply for funding to support projects that will make a difference in the lives of young people.

“It’s a difficult time in our nation’s history and young people are feeling the repercussions of job losses, breaks in education and social isolation,” Minister Colbeck said.

“Life as we know it is not the same, but we know young Australians are keen to take part in activities that will help them and their communities thrive.”

As part of the program, grants of between $5000 and $20,000 are available for projects which respond to the social challenges facing those aged 15–24.

The Government has engaged the Foundation for Young Australians (FYA) to administer the scheme.

FYA is a non-profit organisation committed and passionate about improving the outcomes and life opportunities for youth.

Projects need to be either new initiatives that recognise and respond to the hardship young people face now and will face in the future, or existing initiatives which already provide a valuable on-going service to young people, but which need further funding to continue.

Funds can be used to pay for any type of project including but not limited to staffing, equipment purchase, consumables or marketing.

“While grants will be used for projects which support young people in a variety of ways, there will be a particular focus on employment, transportation, mental health and the impacts of COVID-19 and the Australian bushfires,” Minister Colbeck said.

“I look forward to working with FYA and seeing the outcomes of the exciting projects funded by the Australian government for the benefit of young Australians everywhere.”

Successful grant recipients are expected to deliver projects over the 2020-21 financial year.

The grant round opens today, Tuesday 1 September and closes Wednesday, 7 October, 2020.

For more information and to download the application form, visit the website.

Help Harvest NSW

The agriculture industry is facing a significant labour shortage as a result of COVID-19.
If you are looking for employment opportunities, now is a great time to consider agriculture and farm work. Learning how food is produced and harvested is an exciting regional experience.

The agriculture industry has a range of jobs on offer including fruit picking, grain harvesting and working on a cattle station. 

Farmers will be able to capitalise on what is predicted to be the best harvest in many years, with the launch on Monday August 24th of a new one-stop resource which will help the agriculture industry overcome a COVID-induced labour shortage and get unemployed Australians into critical work.

Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall announced the launch of the ‘Help Harvest NSW’ website today, which will connect unemployed Australians with farm work opportunities across the State as part of the NSW Government’s COVID Recovery Plan.

With NSW at the forefront of this year’s big winter crop comeback after drought and horticulture about six weeks from harvest, Mr Marshall said it was critical to act now as there would be a shortage of between 3,500 and 5,000 workers needed in the state.

“Farmers are desperate to find contractors and employees willing to work to make the most of the bumper harvest we’re about to have,” Mr Marshall said.

“A high volume of primary industries labour generally comes from overseas and due to COVID-19 international travel restrictions there simply isn’t the number of farm workers the ag industry needs at the moment.

“The Help Harvest NSW website will help to overcome this challenge by connecting job-seeking Australians with agricultural work opportunities in NSW.

“I want to see more Aussies climb off the couch and get out into the regions where there’s plenty of good paying work on until the end of the year.

“At a time when we are just beginning to emerge from drought, our State’s farmers cannot afford to miss out on the financial uplift that comes from a strong harvest.”

With higher than average unemployment due to COVID-19, Mr Marshall said that ‘Help Harvest NSW’ was a way to get the State’s workforce moving again.

“Never before and never again will Australians have a better chance to take up farm work, earn a decent wage and see first-hand our beautiful regions where the food we buy every day from the supermarket is produced,” Mr Marshall said.

“My message to the increasing number of people looking for a job at the moment is this: get off your bum and get into agriculture – we need you.

“Take a look at Help Harvest NSW and see what job opportunities are around the corner.”

Browse the job boards and recruitment services here: 


DoggieRescue.com

Pets Of The Week

Honey

AGE/SEX: 2.5yrs / F
BREED: Mastiff X Lab

Honey is a sweet friendly girl. She is suitable with kids 12+yo. She is very playful and enjoys toys and balls. Our trainer says "She can get a bit excited and jump up. She can be a bit rough and mouthy with toys when excited. She does not like her tail being touched. She enjoys kid's company." She enjoys treats and walks with volunteers. She came from the pound with a damaged tail tip. She has weekly dressing changes and the tail is vastly improved. She does have a very long tail and she is expressive wagging it when she is happy so it does get whacked from time to time. She has a smooth coat and weighs 33kg. 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. 

Leo


Leo is a charming friendly boy who sports a medium tabby coat, beautiful fluffy tail, white chest-socks and cute ear fluff. He enjoys being patted and playing with string toys. Leo is a 4 year old tabby semi-long hair domestic cat with greyish colouring in his tabby coat. He was found at a block of units and surrendered by one of the owners to Campbelltown Pound in August 2020 with wounds and a temperature. He has been nursed to health and he has since been de-sexed. Surprisingly for a street cat he is FIV Negative and FeLv Negative. He weighs 3.8 kg. He is located at Ingleside.
He comes desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV/FeLV tested and microchipped. His adoption fee is $220.

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

DOG WALKING is recommencing
DoggieRescue is delighted to announce restrictions have been lifted on walking at our shelter, we are looking forward to welcoming you back onsite. 

We have had some changes occur during COVID-19 that we want you to be aware of. We no longer require you to sign up in advance for dog walking. However, due to the large number of successful adoptions we have very few child friendly dogs available to walk so we may not be able to accommodate walking for your family at this point, also due to the sheer number of adoptions we have fewer dogs onsite who are ready to walk with the public. This means there may be a delay in getting a dog for you to walk. We ask for your patience with our team at this time. 

We continue to practise social distancing onsite and have plenty of hand sanitiser ready for your return.
We look forward to seeing familiar faces and welcoming new ones to our shelter and appreciate your ongoing support during these difficult times.

We are in urgent need of Topical Heartworm Treatment(Advocate or Revolution), Breeder’s Choice Cat Litter, cat food, cable ties and latex gloves.

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

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

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

Domestic Waste Council Charges Review

The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) is seeking feedback on its recently released discussion paper on domestic waste management charges levied by local councils. 
IPART previously decided not to regulate waste charges. They now need to consider whether this is the right approach going forward.

The discussion paper asks for feedback on any issues with the prices charged for waste management services, and, if so, how IPART should respond.


IPART are particularly interested in whether charges reflect the reasonable and efficient costs of providing waste services, while meeting environmental and legislative requirements. 

The feedback will also help identify any opportunities for greater transparency for customers and councils.

Have your say
You can provide feedback by completing the online form here. 
Have your say by Tuesday 6 October 2020.


 

VALE
Joe Romeo

03/01/1939 - 24/09/2020


Una parte di me se n’è andata con te.
Tu sei stato il mio Re e io la tua Regina.

Abbiamo avuto una vita bellissima insieme, piena di ricordi meravigliosi.
Abbiamo camminato tenendoci sempre la mano.
Abbiamo costruito una famiglia che ci ha regalato momenti pieni di felicità e che ti è stata vicina fino alla fine, accompagnandoti nell’ultimo viaggio.

Hai combattuto con tutte le tue forze la malattia in tutti questi anni. 
Pensavo che anche questa volta ce l’avresti fatta ma poi mi sono arresa perché ho capito che era tempo per te di andare.
Avrei tanto voluto che restassi ancora con me.

Grazie Joe per l’amore che mi hai dato e per avermi regalato gli anni migliori della mia vita.

Ti amo e ti amerò per sempre.


Half me has gone with you.
You were my king and I your queen. 

My husband, my lover, my business partner, my everything. 
I wanted for nothing over our beautiful lifetime together, filled with so much love and happy memories. 
You never went anywhere without me, nor did I without you; we did it all together, always hand in hand. 
Look at what we created, our children and grandchildren who have all been by your side through every day, our great grandchildren who brought you unbelievable joy these last few years. 

You fought so hard and you were exhausted. So many health battles through the years but you were so strong and always made it out. I had faith that this time would be no different, but I knew toward the end that now it was time for you to go and rest. I wish you could have stayed with me, but not in the pain you were in. 

Thank you Joe for all your love and the best years of my life, I will love you forever.

Mary Romeo

Notice To Scotland Island Residents: Helicopter To Position New Power Poles

On Tuesday 29th September, there will be a helicopter operating on the island between the hours of 10:00am to 2:00pm, to position new power poles along Thompson St. The flight operations and low-level flight path has been approved by CASA, permit CASA.LOFLY.0788.

The helicopter will pick up the power poles from Catherine Park. There will be hazardous down drafts and high noise during flight operations, along with suspended loads.

We ask for your co-operation to ensure that we have a safe work area for you and for our employees. There can be no residents or public spectating in the park or from Tennis Wharf.

We will have people positioned at the wharf and at Pitt View St to control pedestrian movements whilst the helicopter is over the park.

There will be helicopter warning signs placed at access points to the drop zone along Thompson St. We trust that you will obey these signs during the flight duration. The exclusion zone is for your safety.

If you live inside of the exclusion zone, shown below in red, could you please vacate your home during the flight operation times from 10:00am to 2:00pm. If you have loose, light weight items around your home, it would be best if they are stored or weighted down as the down drafts could blow them away.

As it is school holidays, we ask that you keep your children out of Catherine Park and out of the exclusion zone.



This is a high risk operation carried out by professional pilots. Our number one priority is the safety of the island residents and of our workers. We need you to work with us so that we can concentrate on completing our task without delays caused by people not following our instructions.

In the event of high winds, greater than 15 knots, the flight operations will be cancelled and rescheduled the following day, Wednesday 30/09, at the same time.

If you have any questions, please email l.bertoia@australianpowerservices.com.au 

Notice from Pittwater Offshore Newsletter (PON)

The Lilypad Will Be Rebuilt

Those who live out Careel Bay and Palm Beach way heard 7 sirens heading north last Sunday afternoon and it was soon apparent that little floating villa that has been on the Pittwater estuary for the past few years was alight and could not be saved, despite the best efforts of the local Marine Rescue and RFS Units.


Photo by Simon Mitchell

The owners have this week posted the following message on the Lilypad website: www.lilypadpalmbeach.com.au

Customers, friends and partners, 

We are so devastated that our life’s work and passion, Lilypad has been irreparably damaged by a fire on-board.

Lilypad has brought such joy and wonderment to its guests over the past 18 months and many beautiful memories have been made on board. 
We are still coming to terms with the news and devastation of the fire, however we want all of our guests who have future bookings to know that they will be in touch as soon as possible. We also want all of our past, future and potential guests to know that we will be back. 

We will rebuild and we will create another unique, world class concept that we hope everyone will love as much as the first. This year has been so hard on so many and we had found ourselves very fortunate to be able to keep going through COVID-19, adapting to the restrictions and bouncing back when they eased. And that’s the beauty of being a small, family run business. We are agile and adaptable and our passion and determination can not be matched. 

We’ve got a long journey ahead but we will bring Lilypad back to life so that we can keep delighting guests with the experience and offering that is like no other.

If you would like to be kept in the loop with the progress of Lilypad 2.0, please sign up here and we will keep you informed of the rebuild journey and when you will again be able to come and stay with us. 

Thank you for your support and we hope to see you in the not too distant future. 

Statewide Mental Health Peer Support Helpline Available For The Community

People on the Northern Beaches who are struggling with their mental health and wellbeing are being reminded about an innovative mental health peer support phone line that is free to call and available now.

Member for Manly James Griffin said the NSW Government funded BEING Supported ‘warmline’ was there to support anyone looking for an understanding ear.

“I want to remind our community that the helpline is for anyone who needs help and would like to have a friendly, confidential conversation with someone who understands what they are going through.”

Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor said the unique service offered an alternative for people who would prefer not to initially speak to a doctor or nurse.

“There is no need for a referral, anyone can call this fantastic service which is staffed by trained staff who have been through mental health issues and emotional distress themselves.”

“As well as providing that much needed connection through shared experience, the team can provide referrals to other services if more help is needed.”

“BEING” is the NSW peak body for people with lived experience of mental health issues. The NSW Government is providing $800,000 to the organisation to run the service as a six-month pilot until the end of 2020. The outcomes of the pilot will be independently evaluated.

This funding is part of the $80 million package the NSW Government announced for the COVID-19 mental health response.

The warmline is available seven days a week between 10am to 4pm and 6pm to 10pm. If you would like to have a conversation with a mental health peer worker, the number to call is 1800 151 151.

For more information, visit: https://beingsupported.org.au/

Mona Vale Road East Upgrade Out Of Hours Work: To October 4th, 2020

Out of hours work is planned from 8pm to 6am on the following dates, weather permitting:
  • Tuesday 22, Thursday 24 and Friday 25 September
  • Tuesday 29 September, Thursday 1 and Friday 2 October
If work is delayed due to wet weather, we will try and work a different night that same week. We will notify highly impacted residents if there is a change of date.

Our work along the western end of the project includes:
  • removing rock from the top of the existing rock cutting near the eastern end of Lane Cove Road
  • hauling material away from our work zone near the eastern end of Lane Cove Road to our stockpile at the Western Early Works site off Tumburra Street
  • ongoing road maintenance.
Across the project we will use excavators with rock hammers, backhoes, tipper trucks, elevated work platforms, a roller, a vibrating roller, a small crane, wacker packer, street sweepers, vacuum trucks, concrete trucks, line marking equipment, bob cat mill, light vehicles and lighting towers.

Our work along the eastern end of the project includes:
  • using a vacuum truck, road saw, jack hammers and an excavator to trench and install utilities under the Mona Vale Road, Samuel Street and Ponderosa Parade roundabout and about 40 metres up Samuel Street
  • paving the road around the Mona Vale Road, Samuel Street and Ponderosa Parade roundabout
  • placing concrete barriers and replacing the line marking along Mona Vale Road from near the Mona Vale Cemetery to near Foley Street
  • ongoing road maintenance.
As per the September update, the NSW Government introduced new rules allowing public infrastructure projects to operate on weekends and public holidays from 7am to 6pm. Any high noise generating work is not allowed after 1pm.

We will be working on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 October. This work includes the pulling of electrical cables beside Mona Vale Road from Samuel Street to near Emma Street.

For more information call us on 1800 413 640, email monavaleroad@georgiou.com.au or visit rms.work/mvreast. If you need help understanding this information, please contact the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450.

Map showing location of out of hours work:

BYRA: Racing Commences October 11

BYRA is already OPEN for Individual COVID-19 safe sailing, it is permissible and supported.
 
Using the Mantra Get IN, SAIL and GET OUT  the boathouse and boats are accessible, there are sanitation stations in the entry to the boathouse. This season our fleet has already increased, we have 4 Manly Graduates, (the Spinnaker version of the NS14). Also  two very active teams on the 29er skiff to watch, maybe three, now the Matt had his out on the water a couple of Saturdays back.

The regions which separated sport participants competing have relaxed and there is no restrictions about the region where you live. So everyone is welcome back to BYRA.
  

SAILING is happening on Sundays on PITTWATER
 
LET'S GET ON THE WATER

Let’s see you casually sailing at BYRA this weekend.

For organised racing at this stage is scheduled to start on 11 October.
With the changing of the Zone regulations many Clubs are again holding point score events.
 
Please note that you will find the clubhouse upstairs closed with the exception of the First Aid Cabinet). 
Please ensure the current NSW Government social distancing rules (1.5m) are enforced and follow and strict hygiene procedures are followed.

Remember to bring your own snacks and drinks, as the canteen is not available.

Junior and Learn to Sail
It has been called it the Juniors Section but it is not only for the Learn to Sail sailors, it's also for the older younger ones who are doing great things for the sailing on Pittwater. They have been participating in the Winter sailing and training too. Let us see your pictures on BYRA Facebook .

The Learn to Sail Modules will soon be on the website, and because of Covid 19 number restrictions places will be fewer this time, so feel free to enrol as son as they show themselves.
 
Planned Schedule for Learn to Sail (L T S) classes Spring 2020
 
Sunday October 11       9am -12pm                   Try Sailing Day & LTS Registration
Sunday October 18       8.30am -11.30am     LTS  Week 1
Sunday October 25       8.30am -11.30am     LTS  Week 2
Sunday November 1      8.30am -11.30am    LTS  Week 3
Sat/Sun November 7&8  No LTS . F 11  State titles held at BYRA
Sunday November 15     8.30am -11.30am    LTS  Week 18ft Skiff Junior Day (Sydney Harbour)
Sunday November 22     8.30am -11.30am    LTS  Week 5
Sunday November 29     8.30am -11.30am    LTS  Week 6
Sunday December   6     8.30am -11.30am    LTS  Week 7
Sunday December 13     8.30am -11.30am    LTS  Week 8
Sat/Sun December27&28  MJ Nationals  held at BYRA

Bayview Yacht Racing Association
1842, Pittwater Road, Bayview


2021 Doggie Rescue Calendar

Monika's Doggie Rescue have just opened orders for their 2021 Superheroes calendar. Copies arrive at the shelter on Tuesday September 22nd.

This is the major fundraising activity for the whole year for this organisation to save all these darling dogs, cats, rabbits (and others) and these wonderful calendars make an excellent Christmas gift that brings delight to those you give it to all year round - for 12 months in fact!

Pittwater Online has already secured ours and no, we will not be handing them over should you miss out - staff and family have already put their hands up, and there will be howling, literally, should anyone find theirs has been 'reallocated'.



Solar Panels Grant For Toy Repair Group

The Peninsula Senior Citizens Toy Repair Group, recycle and repair old toys donated to them from the community. Recently they have worked to supply toys to children in Papua New Guinea.

Mackellar MP Jason Falinski presented them with a grant to cover the costs to install solar panels on their building this week.



Faster Internet Coming To Mackellar

September 25, 2020
Ultrafast internet speeds are coming for residents and businesses in Mackellar, as part of the Federal Government’s $3.5 billion network upgrade initiative. 

The initiative is part of the Investment Acceleration Program, which includes $2.9 billion to take fibre deeper into the Fibre to the Node (FTTN) footprint. This will allow millions of homes currently connected to FTTN reach speeds of up to 1 Gigabit per second.

Member for Mackellar, Jason Falinski has hailed the announcement as a major win for the people of Mackellar. 

“This announcement will mean more than 68 per cent of Mackellar will have access to Ultrafast speeds. This will come as a huge relief to residents who are tired of poor internet.” Mr Falinski said. 

“This will improve the way we are able to connect and conduct business, which will particularly be important in a post COVID world.”

The NBN rollout footprint in Mackellar covers approximately 73,000 homes and businesses with a wide-ranging technology mix. These include Fibre to the Curb (FTTC) and satellite which are currently Ready For Service (RFS) for 29,540 and 209 premises respectively. 

This major network investment will see more than 50,000 homes and businesses, or 68 per cent of Mackellar with access to Ultrafast speeds by 2023.

Palm Beach, Avalon, Bilgola Plateau, Bilgola Beach, Whale Beach and Clareville were some of the first suburbs to be connected to the NBN in the electorate. They will now also be some of the major benefactors from the recent announcement.

In 2013, there were six premises RFS and as of the 17th of September 2020, 72,928 premises are ready for service. This equates to 99% of the electorate. Overall uptake of the NBN in Mackellar is at 60%.  

Finance Minister Mathias Cormann said: “NBN Co’s financial performance has continued to strengthen since it delivered its last Corporate Plan, with revenues of $3.8 billion in the last financial year exceeding forecasts.

“This Plan forecasts that revenues will grow to $6.2 billion by the 2023-24 financial year. The company’s ability to successfully raise private debt means that the new investments set out in the plan require no additional funding from the Government.”

Minister for Communications, Cyber Safety and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, said: “In the past year, NBN Co exceeded its rollout targets to reach more than 99 per cent of Australian premises, quickly restored and maintained connectivity for bushfire affected communities, and met the broadband needs of millions of Australian households and businesses when they needed it most during COVID-19 – reinforcing the importance of fast, reliable and affordable broadband.

“The Corporate Plan will see the NBN continue to deliver social and economic benefits for Australians by generating jobs and economic growth, meeting growing demand from households, providing enhanced business services, and supporting regional Australia.”

The $3.5bn network upgrade initiative breakdown:
  • $2.9 billion to take fibre deeper into the FTTN footprint. This will allow two million homes which are today served by fibre to the node (including 950,000 in regional areas) to order speeds up to 1 Gigabit per second (Gbps) by 2023. 
  • $400 million to upgrade the HFC network – allowing all 2.5 million homes in the HFC footprint to order gigabit speeds from December 2021. 
  • $100 million to a speed uplift program for the 1.5 million homes served by fibre to the curb (FTTC).  This will give them access to gigabit speeds through enablement of G.Fast capability by 2023.
  • $50 million for a program to target in home wiring in the homes of customers served by the FTTN network. Problems within the home can often mean speeds are 5 to 20 Mbps less than they could be; a focus on this issue will bring noticeable improvements to many customers.

Quick Action By Hero Lifeguard Saves Man’s Life

Friday, 25 September 2020
The quick action of Northern Beaches Council senior lifeguard Scott Riddington saved the life of a swimmer who had suffered a cardiac arrest at Manly Andrew Boy Charlton Pool last weekend.

On Sunday morning, 36 years of lifesaving experience kicked in when Scott and his team noticed a man who was participating in a regular swim meet had collapsed by the side of a pool.

The alarm was raised immediately, and the MABC team leaped into action with staff clearing about 200 swimmers from five pools, calling for an ambulance, while Scott and his teammate Paul Demidjuk assessed the patient.

Scott says the man was not breathing, pale in colour and had sustained a deep cut to his head in the fall.

They immediately commenced CPR and administered a defibrillator shock.

To their delight, the man regained consciousness after one defib shock, minutes before paramedics arrived – estimated to be about eight minutes from emergency alert to arrival.

“The scene was chaotic with so many distressed onlookers, but all the pool staff performed amazingly well and did what they needed to do,” Scott said.

“You just go through what you’re trained to do,” Scott says reflecting on his experience.

Scott estimates that he has participated in at least 40 resuscitation incidents in his over a three-decade career as a lifeguard in Australia and abroad.

The resuscitated swimmer is recovering in hospital.

Over 33,000 people experience cardiac arrest in Australia every year. Less than nine per cent survive.

Council recently published an online map of where all 45 of its defibrillator units are located.


Senior Lifeguard, Scott Riddington

Resignation Of WRC General Manager

Warringah Rugby Club announces Guy Fraser-Hills has made the decision to resign from his position of General Manager with the Club to take up new opportunities.
 
Guy started with WRC as GM in 2018 and his contribution to our success on and off the field has been enormous during that period.

He was instrumental in steering us through the Covid upheaval and the various challenges it has thrown at us.  I also want to take this opportunity to thank Christine for her incredible efforts to get us through this difficult period.

Guy’s passion for the club and wellbeing of our players stands out for me in his tenure. He has worked tirelessly to ensure our game day experience was the envy of the competition.

Now we will begin the search for the best person who can continue to take WRC forward and continue with the fantastic contribution Guy made.

Guy will continue in his role until 25 October and will assist in finding a replacement for the position he will leave vacant.

The board and everyone at Warringah Rugby Club wishes Guy and his family the absolute best for the future and we would like to thank him for his unequivocal commitment and passion in moving the club forward.

WRC Board

Vegan & Gluten Free Yum

Juliana had a sensational start at her inaugural opening of her permanent market Stall at Mona Vale Markets at Pittwater R.S.L. last Sunday and would like to thank all her friends, customers, and new ones!, that turned up in the rain and were pleasantly satisfied and surprised with the delicious treats available.

For those that wanted to try some of the many of the delicious flavours on display, you can now every Sunday. New flavours on offer this week.
Cakes, Cupcakes , Cheesecakes, Brownies & Tarts
All products are 100% Vegan & Gluten free

If you can't make it to the markets, all orders are baked fresh and custom made to order and require at least 48 hours' notice with orders closing each Wednesday.

A minimum of 17 mouth-watering flavours, with extensive decorative options and possibilities.


Peninsular Senior Citizens Toy Repairers Need Toys!

Terry Cook from the Peninsular Senior Citizens Toy Repairers was recently presented with a Community Service Award by the Belrose Rotary Club. Well done Terry and the Peninsula Senior Citizens Toy Repair Group. 



The team at Ingleside will take your pre loved toys, fix them up, then give them to Charities and not for profit groups in Australia and overseas. Right now there is not much work because there aren't many toys coming in. Please pass the word out. They are located at Ingleside next to the Bahai Temple.
The Peninsula Senior Citizens Toy Repair Group has been in operation for 45 years and in that time has given away well over a million toys.

The Peninsula Senior Citizens Toy Repair Group 
169A Mona Vale Rd, Ingleside
Contact Terry Cook: terrycook@gotalk.net.au 
http://www.peninsulaseniorstoyrecyclers.com.au/
Photo courtesy Anne Salvador-Dunlop

Subsidised RSA Course - TAFE NSW Northern Beaches

Through a grant from the Office of Liquor and Gaming, the Northern Beaches Liquor Accord is offering a subsidised enrolment in the accredited Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) course at TAFE NSW Northern Beaches. This is a great opportunity for those looking to add more skills to their CV for future employment opportunities. 

Course details:
SITHFAB002: Provide responsible service of alcohol
Date: Wednesday, 7 October 2020. 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
Location: Pittwater Training Restaurant, TAFE NSW Northern Beaches Campus 154 Old Pittwater Rd, Brookvale NSW
$86.00 *Subsidised Fee

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST via email: Zoe.Overton4@tafensw.edu.au


More Community ClubGrants Funding Now Available

Community organisations on the Northern Beaches impacted by COVID-19 are encouraged to apply for funding, thanks to the next round of the NSW Government’s Infrastructure Grants program opening today. 

Member for Manly James Griffin said the economic impacts of COVID-19 have meant some communities across NSW have struggled to maintain sports, cultural and other social activities.

“Community sporting and cultural organisations are the lifeblood for many communities and this funding can be used for projects that foster community engagement and participation,” Mr Griffin said.

“We want our community organisations to not just keep their doors open but to grow and prosper.  

“Clubgrants funding is designed to give community organisations a boost when and where it’s needed most – it is available for projects to build, repair or upgrade facilities across arts and culture, sport and recreation, disaster readiness and community infrastructure.”

The last round of the program gave a weighting to projects to repair and rebuild community assets affected by bushfires and COVID-19, and such projects will remain in the priority framework for this round. 

Community infrastructure is also now a standalone category and it can be used for spaces like halls and meeting rooms, community transport, and infrastructure that supports youth, disability, mental health, homelessness, and domestic violence services.  

The grants are made possible by the Clubgrants Category 3 Fund which re-invests profits from registered clubs’ gaming machines into a statewide funding pool for large-scale community projects.  

Since 2015, the NSW Government has funded more than 350 community projects worth $62.8 million under Infrastructure Grants.  

To find out more information or to apply, please visit responsiblegambling.nsw.gov.au. Applications close 12 October 2020.

Youth To Have Their Say On Issues That Matter: Survey Now Open

September 23, 2020
Young people will have their say on the issues that matter to them as the Australian Government works towards the release of its National Youth Policy Framework.

Young leaders, youth organisations and relevant government agencies are invited to provide their views ahead of the implementation of the framework which will provide a pathway of continued support for young people around Australia.

The results of an online survey will help shape the priorities, policies and programs that affect youth.

Minister for Youth and Sport, Richard Colbeck said this is particularly important as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a widespread impact.

“Many young Australians are dealing with disruptions to their education, sudden unemployment, mental health issues and economic insecurity within the family,” Minister Colbeck said.

Earlier this month, Minister Colbeck met with Ministerial colleagues in Canberra to outline how the Youth Taskforce is in the process of developing a whole-of-government approach to supporting young people.

“We are now providing young Australians, particularly those aged 15 to 24, with an opportunity to give direct advice on the development of the framework and ultimately, a meaningful contribution to the policies that affect them,” Minister Colbeck said. 

“Their involvement will be used to create a blueprint that will drive action to improve the lives of young people now and into the future.”

The month long consultation will help the Government identify any gaps or barriers experienced by young people which prevent them from fully participating in Australian society.

“The COVID-19 pandemic is putting a lot of demands on young people and they are rising to the challenge, but together we can do more,” Minister Colbeck said.

“I look forward to hearing about their ideas through this important and timely consultation.”


Discussions will inform the final draft of the National Youth Policy Framework due for completion by December.

Domestic Violence Support During Covid-19 

NB: Where to get help Fact Sheet is below. Simply click on PDF and 'save as' on your own device

People experiencing domestic violence can be assured police and frontline services are ready to support them and their families as NSW continues to respond to the coronavirus threat.

Member for Manly James Griffin said the Northern Beaches community should not hesitate to seek help and support at this time. 

“If you are in danger or in an emergency call Triple Zero (000),” Mr Griffin said. “If you are in need of support services, such as housing or counselling, our hard working frontline staff are also available to help those suffering domestic violence.”  

“No person, whether they live on the Northern Beaches or anywhere in Australia, should in live in fear of violence and I urge people to seek the help they need when it is safe to do so.”

Mr Griffin added that perpetrators are on notice and that police have increased efforts to combat violence in the home including more proactive operations to enforce protection orders. 

“Police will continue to conduct Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) compliance checks to keep victims safe.”

NSW Police Force Domestic Violence Corporate Spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Mark Jones, said police are monitoring rates of domestic violence. 

“High-risk and repeat offenders are being targeted by specially trained police to ensure that all orders are strictly followed and complied with and offenders are arrested if violence is detected,” Assistant Commissioner Jones said. 

“Police are also able to vary existing interim or final ADVOs if we know that violence is escalating, without needing to first go to court, so victims are immediately protected.

“NSW Police are working together with government agencies, including NSW Health, to ensure there is no increased health risk to the community in the current environment.”

The NSW Government is constantly adapting as the COVID-19 emergency evolves, which includes various justice, housing and policing responses to combat domestic violence.

Where to get help - March 2020.pdfWhere to get help - March 2020.pdf
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Where You Can Get Tested In Our Area:

Mona Vale Hospital - Building 14, Community Health Centre, Coronation Street, Mona Vale. Please ring to register for testing.  PHONE: 9998 6296
Mona Vale Hospital message:  The recent changes to our mask guidelines means patients, carers and visitors are to wear a mask at our hospital.  Staff will also wear a mask when they are delivering care or when they can’t socially distance 1.5 metres. Open 9am-4:30pm, 7 days. 

Dee Why Respiratory Clinic - G/5 Mooramba Road, Dee Why. 8am-5pm Monday-Saturday
Booking required via (02) 8416 5005
Booking web address; https://www.hotdoc.com.au/medical-centres/dee-why-NSW-2099/dee-why-respiratory-clinic/doctors?purpose=respiratory

Brookvale Community Health Centre Clinic - 612-624 Pittwater Road, Brookvale. 8am-6pm 7 days. No booking required

Frenchs Forest Douglass Hanly Moir Pathology - 5 Forest Way, Frenchs Forest, 8am-4pm Monday to Friday. Booking required via 1800 026 622 or (02) 9111 3405

Frenchs Forest MedLab Pathology-  8 Hilmer Street, Frenchs Forest, 9am-4pm Monday to Friday, 9am-1pm Saturday No booking required.

North Narrabeen Clinical Labs Pathology - 1416 Pittwater Road, Narrabeen. 10am-4pm Monday to Friday. No booking required.

Northern Beaches Hospital - 105 Frenchs Forest Road (West), Frenchs Forest;  Rear of Emergency Department (secluded mental health entry) 8am- 5pm, 7 days - No booking required.
Drive directly to the clinic by following the signs, please do not use the main car park.  
For people walking or travelling by public transport, follow the red line outside the hospital, then ring the Emergency Department intercom and they will be escorted to the clinic  for testing. 

PATIENTS: We are now temperature checking all staff and visitors ahead of elective surgery returning to the hospital next week. These checks will help us ensure the safety of our staff and visitors during this time.
Entry is via the main entrance or emergency department and all other entry points are closed. There is also screening at the dock for deliveries. The team conducting the checks will take temperatures and ask a few simple questions about wellbeing and possible contact with COVID-19.
Please be patient with our staff conducting the checks.
If you have a high temperature (37.5C or above) or have been unwell with a new cough, sore throat or difficulty breathing, you should call the COVID-19 hotline or visit our COVID-19 clinic for assessment.  


VISITORS: To ensure the safety of all patients and staff, we need to limit the number of visitors to our hospitals and services. Patients will be asked to nominate one visitor, preferably your next of kin, for the duration of your hospital stay. We understand this will difficult for families, but we need everyone to help to protect patients and staff.

Visitors must NOT have travelled overseas in the last 14 days, NOT been in close contact with a person who has been diagnosed positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days, or have fever, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath. 

Visitors to Patient with COVID-19 (or awaiting results)
In order to provide strict infection control, no visitors will be allow to patients who have a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 or those awaiting test results for COVID-19. We understand there will need to be some exceptions to this, especially with children and also with extremely unwell patients, so we ask that you talk to your families and if you have any questions, please speak to your clinical care team. 

Mask requirements: In line with NSW Health guidelines, please note all patients will be required to wear a mask when presenting to the hospital and when outside of their rooms. Visitors must wear a mask before entering the hospital. Please bring a mask from home where possible.​


Speed Humps On McCarrs Creek Rd: Please Share Wildlife Data 

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

It records the GPS position, date, sex, species. Photos can be added as they help in identification
The data is then forwarded to OEH and Transport NSW as it can help establish the best places to place  mitigation. Thanking you all in advance for your help with this.

Please Register Wildlife Road Strikes

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

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