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Humpback whale calf off Eastern wharf, Scotland Island- Authorities notified. 

Wednesday April 15 2026, 12pm - reported by Church Point Ferry Service

Beaked Whale Passes Away in Middle Harbour

ORRCA received reports to their ORRCA 24/7 Rescue Hotline of a solitary “large dolphin” in Middle Harbour in the last week of March that appeared compromised. Upon investigation, the ORRCA team identified the animal as a beaked whale species.

Beaked whales, while found off our coastline, are rarely encountered by humans. They are deep-water, social animals, typically living in depths of over 1,000 metres and travelling in pods. The presence of a lone individual in shallow waters is often a strong indicator of an underlying health issue.

ORRCA stated on April 2:

''Over the past week, ORRCA responders worked tirelessly alongside Taronga Zoo Sydney and NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, with generous support from NSW Maritime and scientists, to closely monitor the whale. From early morning through to last light, our team collected detailed observations on its health and behaviour, providing critical information to support veterinary assessments.

We are incredibly proud of the professionalism, dedication and care shown by every ORRCA member involved. Their commitment ensured this animal received the highest level of attention and welfare consideration throughout.

Sadly, despite all efforts, the whale’s condition declined significantly and it has since stranded and naturally passed away today, April 2 2026. 

We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to the Middle Harbour community. Many residents generously opened their homes, offering balconies and vantage points so our teams could safely continue observations. Their support and compassion made a meaningful difference.

Data and samples will now be collected, with a necropsy to be undertaken. While this is a difficult outcome, the information gathered will help build a better understanding of this species, its health, and the broader marine environment. We hope to be able to share the results of the necropsy in the future.''

ORRCA reports they have had a series of beaked whale strandings in the past few weeks, and hope to be able to share the necropsy results and any insights once known.

A Blainville’s beaked whale stranded along the NSW coastline, this time at Toowoon Bay on the NSW Central Coast on Monday 23rd March, others include the rescue of a Blainville’s beaked whale on March 19 found stranded on Stockton Beach, while on March 21, another whale was reported stranded on the shores of Windang Beach, south of Wollongong.

On Thursday March 26 a group pushed a clearly injured Blainville’s beaked whale back into waters off Bondi. 

Unfortunately ORRCA was not contacted in this instance and states:

''As air-breathing animals, they are not in immediate danger from being on the beach,”  a spokesperson for ORRCA stated.

“In many cases, they may be unwell, injured, or disoriented, and moving them can cause further harm or reduce the likelihood of successful rehabilitation.''

ORRCA stated on March 25:

''This marks another confirmed stranding of this species in just a matter of days. While this is unusual, it is important that we do not speculate on potential causes at this stage. Findings from the necropsies may provide critical insights, and we will share updates as more information becomes available.

Strandings can be complex events, often linked to underlying health conditions or environmental factors. Each response contributes valuable data to help build a clearer understanding of these marine mammals and their environment.''

The one that has passed at Middle Harbour makes another lost.

Six Blainville's beaked whales have become stranded across the New South Wales coastline, with two found at Stockton Beach, and the most recent discovered in Middle Harbour and Bondi Beach... only two of the six were able to survive.

Blainville's beaked whales, Mesoplodon densirostris, are brownish or blue-grey dorsally, and paler ventrally, with dark eye patches and often have white circular scars, perhaps caused by cookie-cutter sharks.

The head can be brownish, shading to grey on the edges of the upper lip and lower jaw. Males are darker than females.

An adult beaked whale surfacing in Bahamas. Photo courtesy NOAA Photo Library.

The body is deep and laterally compressed, particularly towards the tail. The melon is small and flat. The beak is tubular, thick, and moderately long. The mouthline is distinctive in this species, rising steeply about halfway along its length. This is particularly obvious in adult males; the sharp upwards slope of the lower jaw coinciding with the position of the massive teeth. The single pair of teeth are very large (up to 20cm in height), angled forward at about 45°, and raised above the upper jaw. The teeth are mostly hidden within the deep tooth sockets, or covered by gum tissue. Only the tip of each tooth is exposed. It has a strong terminal denticle and is often covered by large, stalked barnacles. These teeth do not erupt in females. The prominent triangular or hooked dorsal fin is positioned far back on the body, between 60% and 70% of the distance from the beak to the tail.

The colouration, extensive scarring and head form of adult males can help in the identification of this species at sea. The arched curve of the lower jaw of males is much more extensive than in Andrews' Beaked Whale and the Ginkgo-toothed Beaked Whale. Males of the latter two species also have large teeth set near the middle of the lower jaw.

Beaked whales are among the longest and deepest divers of any cetaceans. Mean diving depth for Blainville's beaked whale is 922 m (3,025 ft) with maximum 1,408 m (4,619 ft). The species dives primarily to forage for food in the deep ocean, usually diving over 800 m (2,600 ft) when foraging and can stay underwater for 48–68 min. For longer dives ascent rates are slower than descent rates. After a dive they spend an extensive period of time (66–155 min) in the upper 50 m (160 ft) of the water column.

If you encounter a stranded marine mammal, please do not attempt to intervene. Contact the ORRCA 24/7 Rescue Hotline on (02) 9415 3333 immediately and our trained responders can coordinate an appropriate response.

ORRCA stands for the Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia. Their primary focus is the rescue, research, conservation, protection and welfare of Whales, Dolphins, Seals and Dugongs in Australian waters.

ORRCA offers the community one of the most experienced and successful whale, dolphin, seal and dugong rescue teams in Australia. 

ORRCA are the only volunteer wildlife rehabilitation group in New South Wales licensed to be involved with marine mammal rescue, rehabilitation and release. Members come from all walks of life, age groups and nationalities.  

Vortex Rip filmed at Manly

Surf photographer Jamen Percy filmed a vortex rip at Manly on Monday April 13, right as the peak in swell from ex-Tropical Cyclone Vaianu impacted the Sydney region.

Using a drone, Jamen captured spirals created by sand plumes contrasting against the blue waters. The images sparked curiosity on social media. People wondered how vortex rips are created and why they make such fascinating patterns.

A vortex rip is a form of flash rip.

There are three common forms of rips: channel rips, boundary rips and flash rips.

Vortex created by a flash rip. Photo: Jamen Percy

The most common type of rip is a channelized rip. These rips occupy deep channels between sand bars and they can stay in place for days, weeks and even months. These are the classic ‘dark gap’ rips and may also erode a tell-tale embayment along the shoreline.

Boundary and structural rips are found against headlands and other structures like jetties and piers that reach out into the ocean and lakes. These rips are generally channelized and can appear as dark gaps of deeper water.

A flash rip is a dangerous, temporary, and unpredictable rip current that appears suddenly, lasts only a few minutes, and is caused by a sudden influx of water from large wave sets. They create intense, short-lived offshore currents of cloudy, sandy water that can trigger mass rescues, even in waist-deep water.

The shallow sand banks and adjacent deeper channels become overrun by outgoing water as the water tries to find a way back out to sea. It uses whatever channel possible and surges back out, creating a fast-flowing, significant surge of water back into deep water.

The vortex arises when this fast flowing, churned up water meets the calmer sea state just offshore, with friction causing the formation of a spiral.

The combination of this friction and a reduction of water flow from inshore results in the rip slowly weakens and dissipates over a few minutes. In time it will return to a relatively calm state until the next set overpowers the inshore banks again.

On Monday, the peak wave periods hit 16 seconds in Sydney. As the arriving sets broke on the sand banks, they carried significantly more energy then normal, and as what comes in has to go out. This would have contributed to the vortex rips in the photos.

The way in which the vortex spins has nothing to do with the Coriolis Force or what hemisphere you are in, it’s down to the structure of the individual bank/beach setup and that interaction with the calmer water out to sea. One flash rip could spin clockwise and the next counter-clockwise.

For surfers, these rips are more annoying than dangerous, moving you away from where you want to be sitting on the bank, but they can also help stand up the next incoming set, creating a wedge-like, steeper peak on an otherwise straight line of swell.

Flash rips are a common cause of mass rescues because they can sweep multiple swimmers out at once.

If taken away by one and unable to paddle out, the best decision is to head further out to sea, out and around its effects, or if you can, catch some broken whitewater back into the shallower sand banks away from where the rip is surging out.

If a swimmer the best advice on How to Stay Safe includes:

• Swim at Patrolled Beaches: Always swim between the red and yellow flags, where lifeguards are monitoring conditions.
• Recognise the Signs: Avoid areas of water that look sandy or turbulent, even if they appear calm in between white water.
• If Caught: Stay calm, do not try to swim against the current, and float or signal for help.
• Escape Route: If possible, swim parallel to the shore to get out of the fast-moving rip.

A huge thank you to Jamen for sharing these brilliant images.

Vortex created by a flash rip. Photo: Jamen Percy

Antarctic Fur Seal Listed as Endangered with Extinction

On April 10 2026, following an estimated population decline of more than 50% since 1999, the Antarctic Fur Seal (Arctocephalus gazella) has been reclassified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The Red List, maintained by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), is the world’s most comprehensive assessment of the global conservation status of animal, plant, and fungal species.

Antarctic Fur Seals rely on several important breeding sites, including Australia’s sub‑Antarctic territories of Heard Island and McDonald Islands, as well as Macquarie Island 1,500km southeast of Tasmania. With rising ocean temperatures and shrinking sea-ice, krill are heading into deeper colder water, which is reducing the availability of food and creating a cascading impact throughout the ecosystem. Additional pressures, including competition with recovering whale populations, expanding commercial krill fisheries, emerging pollutants, and new disease outbreaks like avian influenza may worsen the decline. 

Alongside Elephant Seals (now vulnerable) and Emperor Penguins (now endangered), the classification change of Antarctic Fur Seals signals a significant increase of extinction and the urgent need for additional resources and support to assess and quantify the risks facing these species.

Dolphin Census: May 30 2026

You can help protect dolphins into the future by registering to volunteer with Dolphin Research Australia for the first ever state-wide NSW Dolphin Census on 30 May 2026.

Recorded sightings will help create a statewide snapshot of dolphin hotspots and key habitats. This will help fill knowledge gaps about dolphins and support long-term research and conservation efforts as part of the NSW Marine Estate Management Strategy.

Anyone can get involved. Simply sign up to get trained and ready for the census at: www.dolphinresearchaustralia.org/dolphin-census/new-south-wales/

Summer in Sydney is getting longer, and it’s happening faster than we thought

April 8, 2026

New research finds summers are expanding 50 per cent faster in many areas than previously reported, with quicker transitions between seasons.

Summer weather is arriving earlier, lasting longer and packing more heat than it used to—and it’s happening faster than scientists had previously measured.

A new study by University of British Columbia researchers has found that between 1990 and 2023, the average summer between the tropics and the polar circles grew about six days longer per decade. That’s up from roughly four days per decade found in past research investigating up until the early 2010s.

For many cities, the numbers are even more striking. In Sydney, Australia, Summer temperatures now last about 130 days, up from 80 days in 1990, adding 15 days per decade. Toronto Summers are expanding by eight days per decade.

Figure 3. Summer length trends. Centre Spatial map of linear trends in summer length (days/decade) over 1990–2023 from ordinary least squares (OLS). See supplementary figure 3 for a comparison of spatial trends over 1990–2023 and 1961–2023. (a)–(j) Summer lengths over 1990–2023 for ten example cities from GHCND data (blue filled circles) and nearest neighbour land grid cell from ERA5 (red filled triangles) for the sites in table 2 in days/decade. OLS trend lines are shown, and title text gives the trend in days/decade (d dec−1) from the GHCND data. Symbols in the top left corner of each plot indicate whether the trend is significant at p < 0.05 from each data set. (k)–(n) Latitude-weighted average summer length and OLS trends over 1961–2023 (left) and 1990–2023 (right) for the NH midlatitudes (top) and SH (bottom). Colours and symbols indicate surface types: inland (yellow squares, excludes coasts), coasts (green circles), and oceans (blue triangles). Black text gives the OLS trend in days/decade (d dec−1) for all surfaces.

The researchers didn’t use the calendar definition of Summer (June through August in the Northern Hemisphere and December through February in the Southern Hemisphere). Instead, they defined Summer based on the weather: the stretch of days each year when temperatures rise above what was historically typical for a given location during the warmest part of the year—a threshold set using climate data from 1961 to 1990.

The study’s findings have implications for agriculture, water supply, public health and energy systems, many of which have been built around assumptions about when the warm season begins and ends.

“These findings challenge what we believe to be the normal cycle of the seasons,” said lead author Ted Scott, a PhD student in UBC’s department of geography. “When summer happens and how quickly it arrives impact patterns and behaviours in plant and animal life, and human society.”

Seasons are changing gears more quickly

The study also found that seasonal transitions—the shift from spring to summer and from summer to autumn—are becoming more abrupt. Instead of a gradual warm-up, summer-like temperatures arrive more suddenly. This could disrupt systems that depend on seasonal cues; for example, flowers may bloom before pollinators are active, crops may need to be planted earlier, and rapid spring warming may lead to faster snowmelt and greater Spring flood risk.

“The changes may be very disruptive to a wide range of systems,” Scott said. “An expectation in the Northern Hemisphere that June is when summer starts may be ingrained in planning and policy, meaning we could be ill-prepared for earlier heat.”

The heat is adding up—faster than before

The study, published Tuesday in the journal Environmental Research Letters, also introduces a new way of measuring cumulative heat that builds up over a summer, combining temperature and time. By this measure, accumulated summer heat over Northern Hemisphere land is rising more than three times faster since 1990 than it did from 1961 to 1990.

The study found that coastal areas in the Northern Hemisphere are seeing some of the fastest growth in summer length and accumulated heat, which could affect millions of people who have moved to these areas in part because of their perceived moderate climate.

Scott and co-authors Dr. Rachel White, professor in the department of earth, ocean, and atmospheric sciences and Dr. Simon Donner, professor in the department of geography and the Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability, analysed temperature data spanning 1961 to 2023 across land, ocean and coastal zones in both hemispheres, and examined trends in 10 cities around the world.

The research points to urgent questions for future study: How will longer, faster-transitioning summers affect the timing of extreme weather events? What will earlier spring heat mean for food supply, given that growing seasons are shifting but daylight—a key driver of plant growth—is not? And do today’s climate models that inform planning and policy fully capture these trends or do they need updating?

For now, the study makes tangible what many people may have sensed—that the rhythm of the year is changing, and that this change is happening faster than most of us realised.

Ted J Scott, Rachel H White and Simon D Donner. Summers over land and ocean are becoming longer, transitioning faster, and accumulating more heat. Published 7 April 2026  © 2026 The Author(s). Open Access. Published by IOP Publishing Ltd. Environmental Research Letters, Volume 21, Number 7. https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1748-9326/ae5724

Increased chance of El Niño later in 2026: BOM

April 14, 2026

The sea surface temperature (SST) analysis for the week ending 12 April 2026 shows near-average to cooler than average waters (up to 2 °C below average) to the north and west of Australia. Waters are warmer than average (up to 2 °C above average) for most of the remaining Australian region, especially to the south-east of Australia.

SST forecasts for May to July indicate warmer-than-average SSTs are likely surrounding much of Australia and are up to 2 °C warmer than average in the Tasman Sea. Warmer waters can increase the potential moisture and energy that is available for rain systems.

The El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is currently neutral. The latest relative Niño3.4 index value for the week ending 12 April 2026 is −0.27 °C, firmly within the ENSO-neutral range (−0.80 to +0.80 °C). Relative Niño3.4 index values have been steadily warming since the end of the southern hemisphere summer. A recent pulse of warming in the sub-surface suggests further warming of SSTs is likely in the coming weeks.

Atmospheric indicators, such as trade winds, pressure and cloud patterns in the tropical Pacific reflect ENSO-neutral conditions. The Madden–Julian Oscillation is forecast to bring westerly wind anomalies to the western Pacific in the coming fortnight. This is likely to further enhance the warming of tropical Pacific SSTs.

As of 12 April 2026, the 30-day Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) is −7.7, which has fallen more than 10 points in the past week. The 60-day and 90-day SOI index values are +5.5 and +7.7, respectively. The steady decline of the 30-day SOI over the past week is, in large part, due to strong daily values from the early March monsoon low over the Northern Territory leaving the 30-day averaging window.

All models, including the Bureau's, forecast the tropical Pacific to continue warming in the coming months. Neutral ENSO conditions are likely to persist until at least late autumn, with all models indicating warming to levels consistent with El Niño by July. There is variation across models in the rate at which El Niño thresholds may be reached, with some suggesting development as early as May, while others show a slower warming with thresholds not being met until July. Ocean-atmosphere coupling (where the ocean and atmosphere act to reinforce each other) is required for a sustained El Niño state.

The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) is neutral. As of 12 April 2026, the IOD index is +0.06 °C. Models indicate the IOD is most likely to remain neutral until the end of autumn, with most models indicating the possibility of a positive IOD over winter–spring. A few models suggest IOD development could occur earlier, during late autumn. However, forecast uncertainty associated with the IOD is currently high, with models showing a large spread of possible outcomes.

The Southern Annular Mode (SAM) index is neutral as at 11 April 2026. It is forecast to remain mostly neutral over the coming fortnight.

The long-range forecast provides the best guidance on likely conditions in the coming months, using the Bureau's climate model to take into account all influences from the oceans and atmosphere.

The long-range forecast for May to July shows:

• Rainfall is likely to be below average for much of eastern and south-west Australia.
• Daytime temperatures are likely to be above average for much of Australia.
• Overnight temperatures are likely to be above average for most of Australia.

Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Autumn 2026 Shows Heightened Risk: AFAC

The Australian and New Zealand Council for fire and emergency services (AFAC) Seasonal Bushfire Outlook is released quarterly and identifies areas of increased risk of fire so communities are aware and primed to take appropriate action.

The AFAC Seasonal Bushfire Outlook is not a prediction of where and when bushfires will occur. Dangerous bushfires can happen outside of traditional fire season periods and in locations with normal risk of fire.

The AFAC Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Autumn 2026 identifies a heightened risk of bushfire in New South Wales (NSW), Victoria and Western Australia (WA).

Increased risk of fire in Autumn has been identified for regions in southern, central, and eastern NSW, large parts of Victoria, extending to parts of southeast South Australia.

Also at risk are parts of southern WA.

AFAC CEO Rob Webb said: "The increased bushfire risk is driven by increased long term dryness and persistent soil moisture deficits."

"For many parts of southern Australia, autumn sees the gradual reduction in fire risk and opportunities for prescribed burning can increase. However, these programs may be delayed in some areas because of the underlying conditions."

"This is a three-month outlook. Even with the anticipated rains in the southeast in the short term, much more would be required to overcome the long-term moisture deficits."

Areas marked red on the map indicate the likelihood of an increased number of significant bushfires occurring in autumn, compared to an average risk of fire.

Fires can and will still occur in areas across Australia identified as being at average risk

The Outlook is the culmination of a complex analysis by expert fire specialists across Australia, and climate prediction and fire weather experts from the Bureau of Meteorology. 

It identifies areas of increased risk of bushfire, in comparison to areas of usual risk of bushfire. It is not intended as a prediction of where and when bushfires will occur.

This Outlook was developed by the Bureau of Meteorology, ACT Emergency Services Agency, ACT Parks and Conservation Service, Bushfires NT Country Fire Authority, Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action Victoria, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions WA, NSW Rural Fire Service, SA Country Fire Service, Tasmania Fire Service, Department of Fire and Emergency Services and AFAC.

Fire season ends across Most of New South Wales

The 2025–26 bush fire season ended for most of NSW at midnight March 31 2026, marking the end of the official Bush Fire Danger Period.

Four Local Government Areas (LGA), Narrabri, Gwydir, Moree Plains, and Mid-Western, will extend the period until the end of April due to local conditions.

Commissioner of the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS), Trent Curtin, said firefighters responded to more than 10,200 bush and grass fires, which burnt approximately 126,000 hectares during the season.

“The past few months have again demonstrated the professionalism and dedication of our volunteers and staff who stand ready to protect their communities,” Commissioner Curtin said.

Among the more serious incidents this season was the bush fire at Koolewong on the Central Coast, where 16 homes were destroyed.  Firefighters also responded to several notable fires across the Mid Coast and Hunter regions, requiring large numbers of crews and aerial firefighting resources.

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib thanked RFS volunteers for their dedication protecting communities across NSW and beyond this season.

“It has been a busy bush fire season for RFS volunteers who have responded to more than 6,900 fires and I thank them for their efforts across NSW,” Mr Dib said.

“RFS crews also deployed interstate to assist with emergency operations in Victoria, South Australia and the Northern Territory, while RFS members and the Large Air Tanker, Marie Bashir, supported international firefighting efforts in Canada and the USA.”

Fire agencies and land managers will now increase hazard reduction activities where conditions allow, including planned burns to reduce vegetation and lower the risk of future bush fires.

“At the end of the bush fire season our focus immediately shifts to preparing for the next; fire agencies will take every possible opportunity to carry out planned burns and hazard reduction,” Mr Dib said.

“Our volunteers give their time to keep communities safe, and while the season is ending, the risk doesn’t disappear. Everyone should remain prepared and take steps to reduce their risk.”

Despite the season drawing to a close, Commissioner Curtin urged residents not to become complacent.

“For areas where the Bush Fire Danger Period has ended, fire permits will no longer be required, but they will still apply in LGAs where the period has extended,” he said.

“Regardless of the time of year, people must still notify their neighbours and local fire authorities at least 24 hours before lighting up. This can be done quickly and easily via the RFS website.

“Now is also a good time for landholders and residents to review their bush fire survival plan and ensure their property is prepared ahead of future fire seasons.”

Chain Valley coal mine extension approval for Central Coast risks breaching NSW Climate Laws

April 9 2026

The approval of a new coal mine extension in New South Wales will test the state’s climate laws, after legal analysis from former Court of Appeal Justice John Basten KC revealed any new coal approvals risk being struck down by Courts due to their inconsistency with the state’s binding 2050 emissions reduction target, NSW Greens have pointed out.

The Independent Planning Commission has today (April 9 2026) approved the Chain Valley coal mine extension in the Central Coast Local Government Area, which is projected to produce over 20m tonnes of emissions. 

Last year, the state’s independent Net Zero Commission, in their Coal Mining Emissions Spotlight Report, found that new coal approvals would be inconsistent with both the Paris Agreement and New South Wales net zero by 2050 target. 

Greens MP, solicitor and spokesperson for Climate Change Sue Higginson said,  

“The state’s top legal minds are clear that any new coal is inconsistent with the current law, it is therefore highly likely that if tested this coal approval would be declared unlawful,” 

“When the Government introduced climate laws in 2023, the Greens ensured that they had a binding 2050 target, and the Net Zero Commission could make clear recommendations about that target. The Net Zero Commission has since been clear that any new coal would be inconsistent with the climate science and law,” 

“I have no doubt that environmental defenders will be considering heading to the Courts right now, to uphold the climate and environmental laws of the state. If they do so they will rightly be armed with the Net Zero Commission’s report and more legal and scientific ammunition than ever before.

“It’s reckoning time for the Minns Labor Government. You can’t claim to be a Government acting on climate, with strong climate laws, then approve new coal and expect to get away with it.” Ms Higginson said. 

Export Sales Ban Applied

Lock the Gate Alliance believes the ban on export coal sales from Chain Valley coal mine by the Independent Planning Commission (IPC)’s ban is an historic first for New South Wales.

The IPC applied the export sales ban as part of their two year extension to mining at Chain Valley, characterising even that as “outer limit of what can reasonably be justified in NSW’s policy context of working towards decarbonisation.”

Lock the Gate NSW Coordinator Nic Clyde said the IPC has set a significant precedent for consideration in forthcoming mine assessments.

“For the first time the NSW Independent Planning Commission has placed an explicit ban on export coal sales from a project. This is an important step and reflects the growing pressure on decision makers to take the climate impacts from coal mining seriously,” he said.

“While it’s encouraging that the Commission has acknowledged what local communities have long known - their region is particularly exposed to climate impacts due to its bushfire prone landscapes, coastal areas and pressure on water resources, they have nevertheless approved the Chain Valley mine for a further two years.”

Lock the Gate also raised concerns about the Commission’s failure to consider whether coal with a lower greenhouse gas emissions footprint could have been sourced for the nearby Vales Point Power Station, despite evidence on this issue provided by the NSW Nature Conservation Council to the Commission at the Public Hearing.

Chain Valley was identified by NSW DPHI “as one of the state’s gassiest mines”, meaning that huge quantities of fugitive methane are being emitted annually. The IPC acknowledged a high level of community concern about the climate impacts of the project, noting that climate change was identified as a high social impact in the applicant's own Social Impact Assessment.

Australia passes High Seas Biodiversity legislation

Announced: 31 March 2026 by Senator The Hon Penny Wong, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Senator The Hon Murray Watt, Minister for the Environment and Water

Federal Parliament has today passed the Albanese Government’s legislation that will see Australia officially join a landmark international treaty to protect the ocean beyond our country’s borders.

The High Seas Biodiversity Treaty (also known as Marine Biological Diversity Beyond National Jurisdiction) provides the comprehensive framework for nations, including Australia, to protect and sustainably manage the world’s ocean beyond the limits of national jurisdiction.

The high seas, which sit outside individual countries’ maritime boundaries and exclusive economic zones, cover more than 60 percent of the global ocean, yet only around 1 percent is protected.

Australia was one of the first countries to sign the treaty in 2023 and has been leading, with Belize, the international negotiations to prepare for its implementation. Australia is now ready to ratify the treaty, being one of a small handful of countries that require legislation prior to treaty ratification.

Through the treaty, Australia will work with other parties to better protect and sustainably manage the world’s ocean. This could include the establishment of marine protected areas, stronger regulation of the use of marine resources, and undertaking environmental impact assessments of proposed activities.

More information about the High Seas Biodiversity Treaty is available here: www.dcceew.gov.au/environment/marine/high-seas-biodiversity-treaty

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Penny Wong stated:

“Ratification will give Australia greater involvement in decision-making around protection and sustainable management of the high seas.

“Healthy oceans help keep our food supply chains more secure, reliable and sustainable.

“Becoming a Party to the Treaty will mean Australia joins more than 80 countries who are taking action in support to protect marine areas both here in the Pacific and further afield.

“We are stepping up to protect our region because what happens in the high seas affects our economy, our environment and our way of life.” 

Minister for the Environment and Water, Murray Watt stated:

“In Australian waters more than half of our maritime jurisdiction is now protected through our marine parks network, including 2.2 million square kilometres in highly protected areas, and that number continues to grow.

“But what happens on the high seas has a direct impact on Australia’s ocean and the industries that depend on it, such as tourism and fisheries.

“The High Seas Biodiversity Treaty is pivotal to safeguard the health of the ocean that we share with other nations and will support a thriving ocean economy for future generations. Protections implemented under the Treaty will also contribute towards the global target to protect 30 percent of the world’s ocean by 2030.

“Australia was among the first to sign up to the Treaty, and has been leading preparations for its implementation, so it’s fantastic to see this pass the Parliament to enable ratification.”

WWF Australia CEO, Dermot O’Gorman stated:

“The high seas cover half the planet and are home to countless whales, corals, turtles, rays and fish. We rely on this vast expanse for oxygen, climate regulation and food, but until now it has been heavily exploited with almost no protection.

“This treaty gives us the tools to protect biodiversity on the high seas - and Australia stepping up really matters.

“WWF especially welcomes the support across the parliament for this treaty to become Australian law.

“Australia now needs to work closely with other ocean-loving countries to identify key areas for protection.”

The Australian Marine Conservation Society, The Pew Charitable Trusts and the Save Our Marine Life alliance welcome Australia’s ratification of a landmark international agreement for the conservation and sustainable use of marine life in areas beyond national jurisdiction, also known as the high seas.

The High Seas Treaty, known officially as the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ), is a legally binding treaty designed to help manage and protect international ocean areas. The treaty provides a framework to establish marine parks and marine sanctuaries, and provides guidelines to assess the environmental impacts of harmful activities. It came into effect in January 2026.

Paul Gamblin, CEO of the Australian Marine Conservation Society, said: “This is an historic moment and a real source of hope for international cooperation for ocean protection, at scale.

“The High Seas Treaty has finally given the world a way to protect marine life beyond the borders of any one nation. Today’s ratification ensures Australia can continue to play a leading role in that conversation.

“We are pleased to see the High Seas Treaty ratification received widespread support across parliament, establishing a shared political legacy for protecting the high seas.

“The Australian Government must now work with other ratifying nations to protect marine life in the high seas, including Australian marine life that crosses back and forth across our ocean borders. The agreement has been many years in the making, but the growing threats to ocean health mean we don’t have the luxury of time to get on with the job of applying these new laws to their full extent and protecting the high seas while we still can.

“The high seas make up about two-thirds of the world’s ocean and cover nearly half of the surface of our planet.

“These vast waters serve as migratory routes for species such as whales and sharks, sustain fisheries, and support remarkable ecosystems including deep-sea reefs and seamounts. Yet only around 1% of the high seas is currently protected in marine sanctuaries.”

Christabel Mitchell, Pew Charitable Trusts Oceans Director, said: “We commend the Australian Government for playing a leading role in ensuring this crucial treaty enters into force and for making sure Australia is now at the table as we enter the next step of collectively protecting the high seas.

“Protecting important areas in the high seas is critically important for safeguarding marine life beyond any one nation’s jurisdiction and building ocean resilience in the face of climate change impacts. A network of marine protected areas in the high seas will be critical to protecting at least 30 percent of the global ocean in marine sanctuaries by 2030.”

The Australian Marine Conservation Society and Pew Charitable Trusts lead the Save Our Marine Life alliance of 27 conservation groups.

ACF backs Senate Climate disinformation report: urges crackdown on social media giants 

The Australian Conservation Foundation has welcomed a landmark Senate report into climate disinformation, warning lies are already harming communities and demanding tougher action to stop falsehoods derailing climate progress. 

ACF Director of Engagement Jane Gardner, who wrote a submission and appeared before the inquiry, said Australians are grappling with a ‘runaway train’ of AI slop and malicious lies designed to delay progress.  

“Disinformation has serious real-world impacts,” Ms Gardner said. “This inquiry made that clear. We’re seeing it turn neighbour against neighbour in renewable energy regions, create confusion during emergencies and erode trust in the information people rely on. 

“The fact is: Australia’s clean energy future depends on the truth.” 

The Senate Select Committee report recognises the growing harms of disinformation and recommends greater transparency of political and campaign activity, tighter oversight and reporting of digital platforms and improved monitoring of hidden influence networks. 

ACF said the report stopped short of recommending the stronger reforms needed to fully address the threat. 

“This is an important first step, but we need to go further,” Ms Gardner said.  

“Australia needs truth in political advertising laws and real consequences for those who deliberately spread harmful disinformation. Australians deserve accurate and truthful information to make decisions about their future, including at the ballot box. Lying in political advertising should not be legal in a modern democracy.” 

ACF’s submission to the inquiry called for: 

• A national inquiry into the full impacts of disinformation on communities and democracy 
• Stronger accountability for social media platforms 
• Truth in political advertising laws 
• Investigation into coordinated disinformation networks and their funding  

Ms Gardner said social media companies must be held accountable for their role in amplifying false information. 

“Social media giants profit from outrage and amplifying falsehoods. Self-regulation is failing. These are some of the most powerful companies in the world and they need to take responsibility for their role in democratic society.” 

Ms Gardner thanked the Australian Greens and Senator Peter Whish-Wilson for initiating the inquiry and bringing national attention to the issue. 

“This inquiry has laid important groundwork; now we need tangible, enforceable action. 

“Protecting Australians’ right to clear, factual information is essential to protecting our democracy and tackling the climate crisis.” 

Recommendations: Re - spread of disinformation

• Recommendation 9 - The committee recommends the upcoming National Media Literacy Strategy incorporate the information integrity framework with examples from the climate and energy domain.
• Recommendation 10 - The committee recommends the Australian Government, coordinated through the Education Ministers' Meeting, establish stronger oversight and disclosure requirements for corporate engagement within school systems, with clear policies regulating philanthropic or corporate relationships that may interfere with educational integrity.
• Recommendation 11 - The committee recommends the Australian Government consider legislative or regulatory reform which identifies psychosocial harms, places the onus of responsibility in addressing these harms onto digital platforms and monitors effectiveness of their mitigations through regulatory and civic oversight.
• Recommendation 12 - The committee recommends the Australian Government improve the quality of data reported to the Australian Communications and Media Authority from the digital platforms to include for example, thematic breakdown of their reporting inclusive of climate and energy data, denominator data, removal actions and paid advertising related to climate and energy.
• Recommendation 13 - The committee recommends that the Australian Government consider how researchers could be provided adequate legal protection to undertake their work in the digital platform space.
• Recommendation 14 - The committee recommends the Australian Government consider how to improve the complaints resolution process, including about false and misleading information online.

NSW powers up Electric Vehicle access

Announced: April 14, 2026

The Minns NSW Government has stated it is making the shift to electric vehicles easier for drivers by rolling out more public chargers, backing more electric trucks and training the workforce needed to keep them on the road.

The 2026 NSW Electric Vehicle Strategy has been released to help reduce emissions and make EVs and their cost-of-living benefits accessible to more people, with a focus on closing charging gaps in regional, remote and suburban areas.

With global fuel prices under pressure and ongoing uncertainty in international markets, accelerating EV uptake has never been more important.

Switching to an EV can cut fuel costs by up to $3,000 a year, or eliminate them entirely when paired with home solar, while reducing maintenance costs by around 40 per cent.

In NSW, there is growing interest in EV uptake with sales making up 15.6 per cent of new car sales.

Backed by $100 million in funding, the 2026 NSW Electric Vehicle Strategy sharpens the focus on five priority areas:

1. Fast chargers where they’re needed most: Expanding the fast charging network with a focus on regional, remote and suburban blackspots, so EV drivers outside city centres are not left behind.
2. More kerbside chargers: Rolling out more kerbside charging infrastructure to help EV drivers who cannot charge at home, including apartment residents.
3. Electric trucks on the road sooner: Expanding the EV Fleets Incentive Program from small to medium-size trucks, allowing organisations to electrify their delivery and service fleets.
4. A skilled EV workforce, especially in the regions: Investing in training for around 2,000 mechanics in regional NSW, where access to courses is limited and travel distances longer, to safely service EVs and charging infrastructure.
5. Clear, reliable information: Strengthening central sources of information to help drivers, businesses, councils and owners’ corporations understand their options and access support.

To date, the NSW Government has funded more than 3,300 EV chargers in more than 1,200 sites across metropolitan, regional and remote NSW.

Applications are now open for eligible councils to build capability and plan for further public charging rollout under a $3 million program, recognising their key role in supporting local access to EV infrastructure.

Fleets and truck operators can also currently apply for grants to electrify vehicles and install charging infrastructure.

The Government states it is also boosting the electrification of transport by:

• Transitioning more than 8,000 public transport buses to zero-emission technology.
• Powering rail, light rail and metro networks with 100 per cent renewable electricity since 2025.
• Installing EV chargers at commuter car parks at major transport hubs.
• Running a two-year trial to enable zero-emission heavy vehicles on state roads.
• Delivering EV skills training across 13 TAFE NSW micro-skills courses, and training emergency service workers to respond to EV incidents.
• Launching EV Road Trips across regional NSW.

More than 117,000 EVs are now registered in NSW, saving an estimated 141 million litres of petrol each year.

To view the updated NSW Electric Vehicle Strategy, visit: www.nsw.gov.au/driving-boating-and-transport/nsw-governments-electric-vehicle-strategy.

Premier Chris Minns said:

“Families are feeling the pressure every time they fill up. We want to give more families the option of taking up EVs.

“This is about giving people a real alternative, one that’s cheaper to run and with this rollout, easier to access.

“We’re making it simpler to go electric, with more chargers, better access and real savings over time.”

Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Penny Sharpe said:

“Owning an electric vehicle helps households and businesses save thousands of dollars on fuel and around 40 per cent on maintenance. This Strategy will get more EVs on the road and help drivers travel and charge with confidence.

“These updates will help build a world-class charging network, support electric trucks and grow the skilled workforce needed to maintain EVs.”

Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison said:

“We’re rolling out more charging stations to improve the network, particularly in regional and remote NSW, so going electric is a practical choice, and people can have confidence they will be able to access charging when they need it.

“For regional communities, EV chargers drive economic development, putting more towns on the map, bringing in visitors who might not have stopped before and supporting local businesses.

“Families and businesses in the regions travel further and feel fuel costs more, so making EVs a realistic option significantly cuts costs and helps people to keep moving.”

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan said:

“Electric vehicles are transforming the automotive industry, and it’s critical our mechanics have the skills to keep up with that change.

“This training ensures workers are equipped to safely service and repair electric vehicles, while supporting the growth of a modern, future-focused automotive workforce.”

EV Council CEO Julie Delvecchio said:

“NSW is pushing on the right barriers to unlock EV uptake and help people access cost of living savings that come from making the switch. Filling regional charging gaps, expanding support for heavy vehicle fleets, and investing in workforce training are practical steps that will get more Australians into EVs sooner.

“Expanding fleet incentives to trucks is one of the smartest moves in this strategy – it’s one of the fastest ways to cut operating costs for businesses while making our streets cleaner and quieter for everyone.”

 “The NSW fuel crisis has driven unprecedented interest in electric vehicles — but interest alone doesn’t put people behind the wheel. What matters now is removing the barriers between wanting to switch and actually making the switch,” EVC CEO Julie Delvecchio said.

“Every barrier removed gives Australians an exit ramp off high fuel prices while strengthening our fuel security. And the case is clear — EVs are cheaper to run, reduce exposure to global oil shocks, and deliver cleaner, quieter communities for everyone.”

kerbside EV Charger on Kalinya Street Newport. Photo: AJG

Autumn environmental flow to support southern bell frog habitat in the Cumbung

April 9, 2026

An Autumn environmental flow is being delivered through the lower Lachlan to sustain critical wetland habitat for the endangered southern bell frog.

This follows strong breeding results recorded for the species over summer in the Greater Cumbung Region.

The 30-day watering event (managed by the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) in partnership with the Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder) began on 15 March. The event will deliver around 300 megalitres per day.

The flow builds on a successful spring–summer watering program that triggered southern bell frog breeding across Greater Cumbung Region wetlands. Follow-up monitoring surveys have since confirmed recruitment, highlighting the need to maintain wetland habitat as conditions dry.

Senior Scientist Amelia Walcott said monitoring showed clear evidence of breeding in response to wetland inundation.

‘Male southern bell frogs were heard calling at six sites across the Greater Cumbung Region during our September and November 2025 surveys,’ Amelia said.

‘In February 2026, we observed young bell frogs at two sites, confirming successful breeding and metamorphosis.’

Lachlan Environmental Water Management Officer Paul Doyle said the autumn flow aims to protect those gains by keeping habitat available long enough for juvenile frogs to survive.

‘This flow is about giving those young frogs the best chance to make it through winter and become next season’s breeders,’ Paul said.

‘After a series of heatwaves, some wetlands had dried, so maintaining key refuge habitat is critical. Building off recent good rainfall, this flow will help refill these areas and keep them wet for longer.’

The timing aligns with an existing water quality allowance flow of around 150 megalitres per day currently moving through the system, allowing ecological outcomes to be achieved with a lower total volume of environmental water.

‘Because the system is already primed, we can extend habitat without delivering a full stand-alone event,’ Paul said.

The delivery will focus on channels and adjacent wetlands, where the water will provide the greatest ecological benefit.

The flow is also expected to support wetland vegetation (particularly reeds, sedges and rushes) and will enable bathymetry mapping to improve future water delivery planning.

Monitoring will continue in collaboration with the NSW DCCEEW Saving our Species (SoS) southern bell frog program, including analysis of acoustic data collected across multiple wetlands during the core breeding season.

‘This monitoring helps us better understand how frogs respond to flows and improve future conservation outcomes,’ Amelia said.

Photo: An autumn environmental flow will be delivered to sustain critical wetland habitat for the endangered southern bell frog. Credit: Amelia Walcott/ DCCEEW

A leap for conservation: breakthrough inoculation trial gives green and golden bell frog a fighting chance

Announced: March 31, 2026

In a bold step that may rewrite the species’ trajectory, 1,000 immunised juvenile green and golden bell frogs are being released across the Sydney Olympic Park’s wetlands this week.

It’s an ambitious effort that could tip the balance against the deadly chytrid fungus and offer new hope for one of New South Wales’s most iconic amphibians.

The first of the inoculated frogs were released at dusk at Narawang Wetland, Kronos Hill and the Brickpit, three key habitat sites within Sydney Olympic Park, with the aim of boosting the resident population ahead of winter.

Through comprehensive, long‑term monitoring of survival, health, and behaviour, researchers will evaluate the potential of this immunisation strategy to be applied more broadly in the fight against chytrid fungus.

Marking an important advance in amphibian conservation, Sydney Olympic Park Authority and the NSW Government’s Saving our Species program are supporting innovative research led by Dr Anthony Waddle of Macquarie University to trial a chytrid immunisation treatment in the wild for the first time.

The project will test whether immunising juvenile frogs prior to release can help them better resist infection by the fungus and increase survivorship. This will encourage viable populations of green and golden bell frog to repopulate, and allow the species to survive in areas where the pathogen is widespread.

Building on promising laboratory results, this pioneering field trial represents one of the first robust tests of chytrid immunisation as a practical conservation strategy.

This work highlights the continued commitment to science‑based conservation and its leadership in protecting vulnerable species within the parklands.

Despite decades of dedicated conservation work, the species continues to be impacted by chytrid fungus, a deadly pathogen responsible for global amphibian declines, which compounds and interacts with other threats including habitat loss and changes in climate.

DCCEEW Executive Director Conservation Programs, Ingrid Emery, said:

“This unique partnership is delivering long-term benefits as without new interventions, this iconic frog remains at risk of ongoing population decline.

“The project brings together a powerful collaboration between Sydney Olympic Park Authority, Macquarie University, and the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water’s Saving our Species program.

“Together, we are working to secure the future of one of NSW’s most recognisable amphibians while advancing global understanding of amphibian disease management. ”

Chief Executive of Sydney Olympic Park Authority, Neisha D’Souza, stated:

“Sydney Olympic Park is marking a pivotal moment for wildlife conservation, launching a ground-breaking field trial that could transform the future of the endangered green and golden bell frog.

“For more than two decades, the authority has worked to restore and manage wetlands that supports NSW’s most significant green and golden bell frog populations.

“This trial builds on working with our government partners and positions the park as a testing ground for conservation solutions with national relevance.”

Macquarie University's Conservation biologist, Dr Anthony Waddle, said:

“This is a major step for amphibian conservation.

“By trialling immunisation in the wild, we’re exploring a new frontier in protecting frogs from one of the most devastating wildlife diseases on the planet.”

Green and golden bell frog released in Sydney Olympic Park. Credit: DCCEEW

NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee final determinations for April 2026: 3 plants listed as threatened with extinction

Announced: April 10, 2026

The NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee assesses which species are eligible for listing as threatened species.

Three plants have been listed as threatened species.

NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee final determinations

1. Prasophyllum canaliculatum

The orchid Prasophyllum canaliculatum D.L.Jones has been listed as an endangered species.

Prasophyllum canaliculatum D.L.Jones occurs in disjunct habitats in the Australian Alps of the Australian Capital Territory, and the South Eastern Highlands of New South Wales.

More information on the species can be found in the Committee’s reasons for final determination and conservation assessment report using the Common Assessment Method: Prasophyllum canaliculatum.

Prasophyllum canaliculatum. Credit: Gavin Phillips/DCCEEW

2. Isopogon prostratus

The shrub Isopogon prostratus McGill., has been listed as an endangered species.

Isopogon prostratus McGill. occurs in the Sydney Basin, South Eastern Highlands, and South East Corner bioregions of NSW and the South East Corner and South East Coastal Plain bioregions of Victoria.

Isopogon prostratus McGill. was found to be Endangered in accordance with the following provisions in the Biodiversity Conservation Regulation 2017: Clause 4.3(b)(d)(e i,iii) because: 

1) it has a highly restricted geographic distribution with an area of occupancy of 384 km2; 

2) it is considered to be severely fragmented; and

3) continuing decline in the number of mature individuals and the area, extent and quality of habitat is estimated due to habitat clearing, fragmentation and degradation, and inferred due to adverse fire regimes (particularly high frequency fire, low frequency fire, high intensity fire, and changes in fire season) and Phytophthora cinnamomi.

Isopogon prostratus typically occurs in heath and dry sclerophyll forest in exposed situations on sandy soils (Harden 1991; Benson and McDougall 2000; VicFlora 2025). Across its range, sites vary from 50 m above sea level (a.s.l.) on the coast in the southern parts of its range to 1,100 m a.s.l. on the tablelands. Occurrences are typically localised (Benson and von Richter 2010).

More information on the species can be found in the Committee’s reasons for final determination and conservation assessment report using the Common Assessment Method: Isopogon prostratus.

Isopogon prostratus. Credit: Matt Saunders/DCCEEW

3. Grevillea rhizomatosa

The shrub Grevillea rhizomatosa Olde & Marriott has been listed as an endangered species.

Grevillea rhizomatosa Olde & Marriott is endemic to the Gibraltar Range in northern New South Wales.

More information on the species can be found in the Committee’s reasons for final determination: Grevillea rhizomatosa.

Grevillea rhizomatosa. Credit: Paul Sheringham/DCCEEW

PNHA Activities 2026

Dear Members

Our walks for 2026 are listed below. 

You are very welcome to bring friends and older children on these outings. Please book by emailing pnhainfo@gmail.com and include  your PHONE NUMBER so we can contact you in case of changes because of weather etc. 

Looking forward to getting out and about in our lovely area! 

Your PNHA Committee

Pittwater Natural Heritage Association

The Pittwater Natural Heritage Association has been formed to act to protect and preserve the Pittwater areas major and most valuable asset - its natural heritage.

PNHA is an incorporated association seeking broad based community membership and support to enable it to have an effective and authoritative voice speaking out for the preservation of Pittwater's natural heritage.

Our Aims

• To raise public awareness of the conservation value of the natural heritage of the Pittwater area: its landforms, watercourses, soils and local native vegetation and fauna.
• To raise public awareness of the threats to the long-term sustainability of Pittwater's natural heritage.
• To foster individual and community responsibility for caring for this natural heritage.
• To encourage Pittwater Council and the NSW Government to adopt and implement policies and works which will conserve, sustain and enhance the natural heritage of Pittwater.

Some of our interests and concerns include:

• Native Tree Canopy
• "Wildlife Friendly" Gardens
• Weed Infestation
• Keeping our Waterways Healthy
• Beaches and Dunes

Act to Preserve and Protect!

If you would like to join us, please fill out the Membership Form. Visit: https://pnha.org.au

Sunday April 26 Fauna: Underpass below Mona Vale Rd East, Ingleside.

If you missed this walk last year, here’s your chance to see how fauna can move between areas of bushland, so important for finding territory, mates and food. 

Meet 9am at corner of Ingleside Rd and Laurel Rd East. Walk ends about 11am.

Saturday May 23: PNHA stall at Avalon Car Boot Sale, Dunbar Park Avalon.

From 8am to 2pm, we’ll offer Information on identifying and controlling weeds. See our posters about invertebrates in local gardens. Our famous $2 local flora, fauna and scenery cards will be for sale. Come and have a chat. 

Sunday May 24: Walk in Red Hill Bushland Reserve, Beacon Hill

Meet 9am on Lady Penrhyn Drive opposite no. 41A, close to the open gate. Flora, birds, views. Walk ends about 11.30. 

Sunday June 28: Crown to the Sea Walk, Newport

Meet 9am at Porter Reserve, Neptune Rd Newport. Walk ends about 12 noon. This walk goes through several very different bushland reserves with coastal heath and littoral rainforest.

Wildflowers, ferns and coastal views. Moderate fitness needed for some steep tracks and many steps. Limit: 15 people so please book early. We will provide the Crown to the Sea map to participants on booking.

Sunday July 26: Ingleside Chase Reserve

Meet 9am at end of Irrawong Rd North Narrabeen, walk ends about 11am. Birds and swamp forest along Mullet Creek. Swamp Mahoganies will be flowering attracting birds. Binoculars a must for this walk.

Sunday August 23: Spring in the Bush

Meet 9am at corner of Mallawa Rd and Bulara St, Terrey Hills. Walk ends about 11am. With a focus on botany, we’ll see flowering plants in the Proteaceae plant family, waratahs, endangered Grevillea caleyi , right, and others in the major Australian Proteaceae plant family. Birds, too. 

Sunday September 27: The Chiltern Track, Ku-ring-gai N.P.

Meet 9am at track entrance with barred gate on Chiltern Rd Ingleside. Walk ends about 11am. One of our favourite walks to see Sydney sandstone flora in spring. Native plant species list available. Birds too, often a Yellow-tufted Honeyeater here. 

Sunday October 25: Katandra by Night

Meet 6.45pm at Katandra Bushland Sanctuary on Lane Cove Rd Ingleside. Walk ends about 8.45pm. Sunset is about 7.15. The bush by night is wonderful. We hope to see fireflies again as on previous walks here in October. Bring a torch, or headtorch, preferably with a red light option so as not to dazzle possums. Moderate fitness needed for the bush track and steps. Limit: 15 people, so please book early. 

Sunday November 22: Deep Creek Reserve

Meet 9am in Deep Creek reserve, off Wakehurst Parkway. Walk ends about 11am. Birds and bushland. From the bridge across the creek we may see Dollarbirds, summer breeding migrants that nest in hollows, with their youngsters. Black Bitterns have been observed along the creek margins, so bring binoculars. 

NSW Government's Heat Pump Feasibility Grant for businesses: closes March 31

Learn how heat pumps could lower your energy costs and emissions here.

Key information

• Status: open now
• Grant amount: up to $30,000 to cover up to 75% of the project costs
• Application closing date: Tuesday, 31 March 2026 at 5 pm (AEDT) or earlier, if funding is exhausted
• Total funding amount: $1 million

Heat pumps are an effective solution to cut costs and decarbonise heating systems. Switching to heat pumps can benefit your businesses in many ways, including:

• lowering energy costs
• reducing exposure to volatile global energy prices
• reducing carbon emissions.

Discover energy savings that were identified during the NSW Government's Heat Pump Feasibility pilot program. 

The Heat Pump Feasibility Grant is a great opportunity for eligible NSW businesses to assess whether a heat pump is a feasible option for your site. You can apply for up to $30,000 to cover 75% of the project costs.

What’s included in the grant funding

The grant provides funding to help you work with a specialist consultant who will first assess your site for any major barriers to installing a heat pump. If these barriers can be overcome, you will receive funding for a detailed feasibility study. This will help you make an informed decision about whether a heat pump is the right fit for your site.  

The grant includes 3 milestones:

• Milestone 1: Up to $5,000 to cover up to 75% of the cost to identify if a heat pump is suitable for your business site. This is an opportunity to identify potential barriers to heat pump implementation and assess possible solutions. The results of milestone 1 will determine your progression to milestone 2.
• Milestone 2: Develop the heat pump design against the site’s current process requirements. There is no payment of Grant funding at milestone 2.
• Milestone 3: Up to $25,000 (covering up to 75% of costs) to develop a detailed heat pump feasibility study (for milestone 2 and 3).  

For full details about what is included and what is not, please read the funding guidelines (PDF, 637KB). 

Who can apply  

To be eligible for this Grant, you must meet all the following criteria:    

• You have an Australian Business Number (ABN) and are registered for goods and services tax (GST).    
• You are delivering your heat pump project at a NSW business site address.  
• You use between 5,000 and 100,000 gigajoules (GJ) of gas (liquified natural gas, liquified petroleum gas, natural gas) per year at your business site, excluding fuel for transport. You must be able to provide evidence of your annual gas use, such as energy bills. You must submit the most recent available evidence, no more than 2 years old at the time you apply.      
• You have identified a specialist consultant(s) to complete the Grant milestones.  

You are not eligible for this Grant if you:  

• are a Commonwealth, state or local government entity  
• have already been approved for this Grant funding  
• have received or are going to receive funding from the NSW Government for the same activities.  

Have your say on the Murray-Darling Basin Plan Review

The Murray-Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) has released a Discussion Paper to support public consultation on the Basin Plan Review.

As part of the 2026 Basin Plan Review, the Murray-Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) are inviting you to share your views by making a submission. Your feedback will help shape water management for future generations.

The 12-week public consultation is open until 1 May 2026. The MDBA want to hear your thoughts on: 

• The issues and options presented in the Discussion Paper
• Any other issues and options we should consider
• What you see as the priorities, and why.

“The release of the Discussion Paper kicks off the Basin Plan Review” MDBA Chief Executive Andrew McConville said.

“Through the Discussion Paper the Authority has explored progress that has been made to date and considered some of the issues and challenges for the Basin as we look forward over the next decade.”

“The Basin Plan has delivered real benefits, and we are starting to see improvements in some of the Basin’s most important rivers and wetlands.

“But the evidence is also clear that climate change, ageing infrastructure, disconnected floodplains, declining native fish and poor water quality mean we need to do some things differently.

Looking ahead we need a Plan that supports greater adaptation to a changing climate.''

Mr McConville explained that the release of the Discussion Paper is the start of the consultation process on the Basin Plan Review.

“We’ve been transparent about the evidence we’ve gathered from governments, basin communities and industries, First Nations and scientists, to get to this point. We’ve used this evidence to propose ideas and actions for the future – now we want to know what the community thinks of that.

“At this point it is a discussion, not a set of decisions. Nothing in the Review is yet settled, and we want to have a genuine conversation with communities, informed by their lived experience.”

Consultation on the Discussion Paper will run for 12 weeks from 5 February 2026 until 1 May 2026, during which the Authority will be encouraging individuals, communities, peak bodies and anyone with an interest in achieving better outcomes for the Basin, to make a submission.

“Our consultation over the coming few months will be extensive. We will be out in the Basin listening to people to understand what is working, what isn’t and what might need to change. We will be explaining what is in the Discussion Paper and outlining how people might get involved by making a submission,” said Mr McConville.

At the conclusion of the public consultation period, the submissions received will help inform the Authority as it develops the Review which is to be finalised and delivered to the Commonwealth Government before the end of the year.

Minister for the Environment and Water, Senator Murray Watt said that a healthy Murray-Darling Basin means resilient ecosystems, stronger industries, thriving communities and opportunities for future generations.

“Our challenge in the Basin is to balance competing pressures: reducing stress on major ecological systems, supporting Basin economies and communities, and adapting to a drying climate with increased scarcity and competition for water,” Minister Watt said.

“For well over a decade, the Basin Plan has been the blueprint for restoring the health of the Murray−Darling Basin while supporting communities and industry.

“As we near its final stages we want to be clear on what has worked and take honest and frank feedback on what can be improved.

“The Review will inform the future of the Basin Plan, to secure long-term sustainability for the environment and for Basin communities.

I encourage everyone in the Basin to get involved in the Review to have your say on how the Basin should be managed.

More information

• Download the Discussion Paper
• Further information on the Review and how to make a submission

Birdwood Park Bushcare Group Narrabeen

Sydney Wildlife (Sydney Metropolitan Wildlife Services) Needs People for the Rescue Line

We are calling on you to help save the rescue line because the current lack of operators is seriously worrying. Look at these faces! They need you! 

Every week we have around 15 shifts either not filled or with just one operator and the busy season is around the corner. This situation impacts on the operators, MOPs, vets and the animals, because the phone line is constantly busy. Already the baby possum season is ramping up with calls for urgent assistance for these vulnerable little ones.

We have an amazing team, but they can’t answer every call in Spring and Summer if they work on their own.  Please jump in and join us – you would be welcomed with open arms!  We offer lots of training and support and you can work from the office in the Lane Cove National Park or on your home computer.

If you are not able to help do you know someone (a friend or family member perhaps) who might be interested?

Please send us a message and we will get in touch. Please send our wonderful office admin Carolyn an email at  sydneywildliferescueline@gmail.com

622kg of Rubbish Collected from Local Beaches: Adopt your local beach program

This Tick Season: Freeze it - don't squeeze it

Notice of 1080 Poison Baiting

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) will be conducting a baiting program using manufactured baits, fresh baits and Canid Pest Ejectors (CPE’s/ejectors) containing 1080 poison (sodium fluoroacetate) for the control of foxes. The program is continuous and ongoing for the protection of threatened species.

This notification is for the period to 31 July 2026 at the following locations:

• Garigal National Park
• Lane Cove National Park (baits only, no ejectors are used in Lane Cove National Park)
• Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
• Sydney Harbour National Park – North Head (including the Quarantine Station), Dobroyd Head, Chowder Head & Bradleys Head managed by the NPWS
• The North Head Sanctuary managed by the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust
• The Australian Institute of Police Management, North Head

DO NOT TOUCH BAITS OR EJECTORS

All baiting locations will be identifiable by signs.

Please be reminded that domestic pets are not permitted on NPWS Estate. Pets and working dogs may be affected (1080 is lethal to cats and dogs). Pets and working dogs must be restrained or muzzled in the vicinity and must not enter the baiting location. Penalties apply for non-compliance.

In the event of accidental poisoning seek immediate veterinary assistance.

For further information please call the local NPWS office on:

NPWS Sydney North (Middle Head) Area office: 9960 6266

NPWS Sydney North (Forestville) Area office: 9451 3479

NPWS North West Sydney (Lane Cove NP) Area office: 8448 0400

NPWS after-hours Duty officer service: 1300 056 294

Sydney Harbour Federation Trust: 8969 2128

Volunteers for Barrenjoey Lighthouse Tours needed

Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 Recycling Batteries: at Mona Vale + Avalon Beach

Over 18,600 tonnes of batteries are discarded to landfill in Australia each year, even though 95% of a battery can be recycled!

That’s why we are rolling out battery recycling units across our stores! Our battery recycling units accept household, button cell, laptop, and power tool batteries as well as mobile phones! 

How To Dispose Of Your Batteries Safely: 

1. Collect Your Used Batteries: Gather all used batteries from your home. Our battery recycling units accept batteries from a wide range of products such as household, button cell, laptop, and power tool batteries.
2. Tape Your Terminals: Tape the terminals of used batteries with clear sticky tape.
3. Drop Them Off: Come and visit your nearest participating store to recycle your batteries for free (at Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 Mona Vale and Avalon Beach).
4. Feel Good About Your Impact: By recycling your batteries, you're helping support a healthier planet by keeping hazardous material out of landfills and conserving resources.

Environmental Benefits

• Reduces hazardous waste in landfill
• Conserves natural resources by promoting the use of recycled materials
• Keep toxic materials out of waterways 

Plastic Bread Ties For Wheelchairs

Stay Safe From Mosquitoes 

Mountain Bike Incidents On Public Land: Survey

Report fox sightings

marine wildlife rescue group on the Central Coast

A new wildlife group was launched on the Central Coast on Saturday, December 10, 2022.

Marine Wildlife Rescue Central Coast (MWRCC) had its official launch at The Entrance Boat Shed at 10am.

The group comprises current and former members of ASTR, ORRCA, Sea Shepherd, Greenpeace, WIRES and Wildlife ARC, as well as vets, academics, and people from all walks of life.

Well known marine wildlife advocate and activist Cathy Gilmore is spearheading the organisation.

“We believe that it is time the Central Coast looked after its own marine wildlife, and not be under the control or directed by groups that aren’t based locally,” Gilmore said.

“We have the local knowledge and are set up to respond and help injured animals more quickly.

“This also means that donations and money fundraised will go directly into helping our local marine creatures, and not get tied up elsewhere in the state.”

The organisation plans to have rehabilitation facilities and rescue kits placed in strategic locations around the region.

MWRCC will also be in touch with Indigenous groups to learn the traditional importance of the local marine environment and its inhabitants.

“We want to work with these groups and share knowledge between us,” Gilmore said.

“This is an opportunity to help save and protect our local marine wildlife, so if you have passion and commitment, then you are more than welcome to join us.”

Marine Wildlife Rescue Central Coast has a Facebook page where you may contact members. Visit: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076317431064

• Ph: 0478 439 965
• Email: marinewildlifecc@gmail.com
• Instagram: marinewildliferescuecc

Watch out - shorebirds about

Possums In Your Roof?: do the right thing

Aviaries + Possum Release Sites Needed

Mona Vale Dunes bushcare group: 2026 Dates

What’s Happening? Mona Vale Dunes Bushcare group catch-up. 

In 2026 our usual work mornings will be the second Saturday and third Thursday of each month. You can come to either or both. 

We are maintaining an area south of Golf Avenue. This was cleared of dense lantana, green cestrum and ground Asparagus in 2019-2020. 600 tubestock were planted in June 2021, and natural regeneration is ongoing. 

Photos: The site In November 2019, chainsaws at the ready. In July 2025, look at the difference - coastal dune vegetation instead of dense weeds. But maintenance continues and bushcarers are on the job. Can you join us?

(access to this southern of MV Dunes  - parking near Mona Vale Headland reserve, or walk from Golf Ave.) 

For comparison, see this image of MV dunes in 1969!, taken from atop the home units at the end of Golf Avenue. 

2026 Dates

Bangalley Headland WPA Bushcare 2026

Watch out for PNHA signs telling you about bush regeneration and our local environment. This is one of many coming up.

Bushcare in Pittwater: where + when

Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment Activities

Bush Regeneration - Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment  

This is a wonderful way to become connected to nature and contribute to the health of the environment.  Over the weeks and months you can see positive changes as you give native species a better chance to thrive.  Wildlife appreciate the improvement in their habitat.

Belrose area - Thursday mornings 

Belrose area - Weekend mornings by arrangement

Contact: Phone or text Conny Harris on 0432 643 295

Wheeler Creek - Wednesday mornings 9-11am

Contact: Phone or text Judith Bennett on 0402 974 105

Or email: Friends of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment : email@narrabeenlagoon.org.au

Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations in Pittwater

November 2024

• A Turtle-y Awesome Rescue by Whale Beach SLSC + Shell us what you see this Summer: TurtleWatch needs your help!

January 2025

• Are Turtles not Safe in the Estuary? Green Turtle Killed in Pittwater Prompts Renewed Calls for Boaters to slow down, adhere to the speed limit

Pittwater's Birds

New Shorebirds WingThing  For Youngsters Available To Download

A Shorebirds WingThing educational brochure for kids (A5) helps children learn about shorebirds, their life and journey. The 2021 revised brochure version was published in February 2021 and is available now. You can download a file copy here.

If you would like a free print copy of this brochure, please send a self-addressed envelope with A$1.10 postage (or larger if you would like it unfolded) affixed to: BirdLife Australia, Shorebird WingThing Request, 2-05Shorebird WingThing/60 Leicester St, Carlton VIC 3053.

Shorebird Identification Booklet

The Migratory Shorebird Program has just released the third edition of its hugely popular Shorebird Identification Booklet. The team has thoroughly revised and updated this pocket-sized companion for all shorebird counters and interested birders, with lots of useful information on our most common shorebirds, key identification features, sighting distribution maps and short articles on some of BirdLife’s shorebird activities. 

The booklet can be downloaded here in PDF file format: http://www.birdlife.org.au/documents/Shorebird_ID_Booklet_V3.pdf

Paper copies can be ordered as well, see http://www.birdlife.org.au/projects/shorebirds-2020/counter-resources for details.

Download BirdLife Australia's children’s education kit to help them learn more about our wading birdlife

Shorebirds are a group of wading birds that can be found feeding on swamps, tidal mudflats, estuaries, beaches and open country. For many people, shorebirds are just those brown birds feeding a long way out on the mud but they are actually a remarkably diverse collection of birds including stilts, sandpipers, snipe, curlews, godwits, plovers and oystercatchers. Each species is superbly adapted to suit its preferred habitat.  The Red-necked Stint is as small as a sparrow, with relatively short legs and bill that it pecks food from the surface of the mud with, whereas the Eastern Curlew is over two feet long with a exceptionally long legs and a massively curved beak that it thrusts deep down into the mud to pull out crabs, worms and other creatures hidden below the surface.

Some shorebirds are fairly drab in plumage, especially when they are visiting Australia in their non-breeding season, but when they migrate to their Arctic nesting grounds, they develop a vibrant flush of bright colours to attract a mate. We have 37 types of shorebirds that annually migrate to Australia on some of the most lengthy and arduous journeys in the animal kingdom, but there are also 18 shorebirds that call Australia home all year round.

What all our shorebirds have in common—be they large or small, seasoned traveller or homebody, brightly coloured or in muted tones—is that each species needs adequate safe areas where they can successfully feed and breed.

The National Shorebird Monitoring Program is managed and supported by BirdLife Australia. 

This project is supported by Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority and Hunter Local Land Services through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program. Funding from Helen Macpherson Smith Trust and Port Phillip Bay Fund is acknowledged. 

The National Shorebird Monitoring Program is made possible with the help of over 1,600 volunteers working in coastal and inland habitats all over Australia. 

The National Shorebird Monitoring program (started as the Shorebirds 2020 project initiated to re-invigorate monitoring around Australia) is raising awareness of how incredible shorebirds are, and actively engaging the community to participate in gathering information needed to conserve shorebirds. 

In the short term, the destruction of tidal ecosystems will need to be stopped, and our program is designed to strengthen the case for protecting these important habitats. 

In the long term, there will be a need to mitigate against the likely effects of climate change on a species that travels across the entire range of latitudes where impacts are likely. 

The identification and protection of critical areas for shorebirds will need to continue in order to guard against the potential threats associated with habitats in close proximity to nearly half the human population. 

Here in Australia, the place where these birds grow up and spend most of their lives, continued monitoring is necessary to inform the best management practice to maintain shorebird populations. 

BirdLife Australia believe that we can help secure a brighter future for these remarkable birds by educating stakeholders, gathering information on how and why shorebird populations are changing, and working to grow the community of people who care about shorebirds.

To find out more visit: http://www.birdlife.org.au/projects/shorebirds-2020/shorebirds-2020-program