Pittwater Online News

Anzac Day in Pittwater: 2025

The War Veterans RSL Anzac LifeCare Village at Narrabeen held a march and commemorative service on 23 April and a Dawn Service on April 25, attended by a huge crowd with MP for Mackellar Dr. Sophie Scamps in attendance.

Dr. Scamps stated this was a truly moving Commemoration which she felt honoured to attend and be one among the many residents of all ages honouring those who have served and serve still.

Later that morning RSL Cabs again ferried Veterans to the March in town.

At Pittwater RSL Sub-Branch President Deborah Carter led the Dawn Service and Sub-Branch Member WO2 Shane Fender gave the ANZAC address. Their commencement parade was led out by pipers giving a sterling rendition of Waltzing Matilda. 

At the conclusion of Anzac Address President Deborah Carter broke the news that our community has lost World War Two Veteran  Gwen Sneesby just days before this year's Services. 

President Carter stated:

''Anzac Day is not just about WW1 (the war to end all wars) but is a remembrance of all campaigns in theatres of war and sadly many wars have followed. 

In my view, the war that changed Australia was WW2 because the enemy was close on our doorstep and the Brisbane line was proposed. With the fear of occupation of the Japanese, the government decided that the Japanese could live north of Brisbane, and the Australians could live south of Brisbane.

I pay tribute to our WW2 veterans, the young men of the militia of Kokoda, Templeton’s Crossing, the battles Milne Bay, Gona and Buna which broke the back of the Japanese from further aspirations to take Australia.

I also pay tribute to the 7th division on returning from the Middle East who assisted with this triumph.

Sadly, on Thursday 10 April this year, we lost WW2 Veteran, Gwen Sneesby, nee Forster. Service no. WR379.  (17 June 1924 – 10 April 2025, just 9 weeks short of her 101st birthday).  

Gwen was a Mona Vale girl who attended Mona Vale Public School and her name is on the WW2 Honour Roll; Gwen Forster. 

Gwen’s father was in the Australian Navy in WW1. He was seconded to England to work with the Royal Navy. As a small child, Gwen returned to Australia by ship and this is when she decided she wanted to join the Navy.  

With the outbreak of WW2, Gwen went to the recruiting office was in Loftus street, Circular Quay and signed up to become a WRAN; she was 18 years.   

After basic training at HMAS Penguin, Gwen spent the next three years at Bradley’s Head Degaussing Range. This was built and staffed by the US Navy who trained eight WRANS (where Gwen was Leading Writer) to operate the instruments required for the testing of the ship’s Magnetic Field. This was essential for the electrical officers to calculate settings required to repel magnetic mines. The Degaussing Range was later taken over by the RAN and at the end of the war the building was completely demolished.

On 01 June 1942, at 2:30am, the Japanese Midget Subs entered Sydney Harbour and torpedoed the steam ferry HMAS Kuttabul which was docked at Garden Island where 21 sailors were killed.  Fatefully, Gwen happened to be off duty when the HMAS Kuttabul was sunk. 

Anzac Day is not just a day we remember our ANZACS, but we salute all veterans who have put on the uniform, in particular, our current serving members and Reservists who have kept us safe during fire assist, Covid safe, floods and border control. Thanks also to our Kiwi cousins.''

VALE Gwen - and thank you for your Service.

MORE HERE

Audit Office of NSW Report on Northern Beaches Hospital Released

The Audit Office of NSW Report released its report on the Northern Beaches Hospital on 17 April 2025, just before the Easter long weekend.

With Healthscope stating this wish to hand the public component of the hospital back to the New South Wales government, the report provides insights as to why Healthscope seeks to exit years before the contract to operate the public portion of the hospital in 20238.

The Northern Beaches Hospital has a total of 488 beds, with 60% of those as public beds, meaning 292 beds are designated for public patients. The remaining 40% (196 beds) are for private patients. 

Healthscope has proposed handing back Northern Beaches Hospital to the NSW government, and wants to retain 192 private beds until 2058, or after the hospital has been in operation for 50 years - which marked the death knell for Mona Vale Hospital, which celebrated its Golden Jubilee in February 2014. 

The announcement regarding the start of construction for the Northern Beaches Hospital in Frenchs Forest was made on July 2, 2015, following Stage 2 planning approval by the then NSW Government. 

The report also makes public that Healthscope wrote to the Health Minister in November and December 2023, just months after the Minns State Government had become the incumbents, requesting to hand back the public portion of the hospital then.

Health Minister Ryan Park has defended a decision to reject the previous request and said a task force would examine the latest request.

"The taxpayers of NSW would have been hundreds of millions of dollars out of pocket," Mr Park has stated.

The report has urged the state government to consider whether the public-private model was appropriate for health care delivery, stating the operating model created tension between commercial and clinical outcomes.

Mr Park said the government would accept the report recommendations in full.

"It outlines and lays bare the problem with the privatisation of public hospital services here in New South Wales," Mr Park said.

Healthscope has rejected some of the findings, including that it had limited visibility over minor harm or near-miss incidents. Their response states they have ''completed a review of its emergency department IT systems and processes and has invested in an improvement project to enhance triage processes, including automatic alerts for patient vital signs''.

Healthscope's response in regards to falls and birth trauma states these ''remain priority areas at NBH, with active interventions in place.'' and ''The report notes that the NSLHD, in which NBH’s catchment is located, has an older patient demographic, which correlates with a higher expected rate of certain complications, particularly falls''. 

But the Audit Offices' report found that the hospital failed to address safety risks with its electronic record system, which had been known since the hospital opened in 2018.

"The Northern Beaches Hospital has recorded concerning results for some hospital-acquired complications and has not taken sufficient actions to address some identified clinical safety risks," the report states.

The report states the risk was realised during a serious adverse event in September 2024, a reference to the death of toddler Joe Massa after he was incorrectly triaged after presenting to the emergency department.

Joe, then just two years of age, was kept waiting for two-and-a-half hours for a bed, despite a dangerously high heart rate and a severe loss of fluid.

An internal investigation found serious failures by the hospital's management, including wrongly triaging Joe as a less serious category of patient and failing to respond to repeated requests from his parents to give him IV fluids.

In February this year, Harper Atkinson was born unresponsive, almost an hour after an obstetrician at the hospital declared an immediate threat to the life of the mother or baby.

The baby died the next day after an operating theatre was not ready for mother, Leah Pitman, as the hospital relies on an on-call system on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights.

Healthscope has said its on-call system meets all NSW Health and college of obstetricians guidelines.

The report found the hospital had not always met its contractual targets and had recorded elevated rates of falls and birth trauma.

Additionally, a theme of 'not enough money' recurs throughout the tabled full report.

At a press conference ahead of the report's release, Premier Chris Minns said the government remained concerned about the privatisation of essential services.

"When you've got a sick relative, when you've got someone who's injured, the last thing you want anyone thinking about is dollars and cents or the spreadsheet or a balance sheet," the premier said.

The NSW government has expressed its intention to carefully consider the proposal by Healthscope to hand back the public portion of the hospital, but has also made it clear that it does not want Healthscope to profit from the transition. 

Residents and the Save Mona Vale Hospital Committee (now 'Rebuild Mona Vale Hospital') have expressed dismay at this colossal waste of public money and significant loss of accessible health services due to the closure of Mona Vale and Manly Hospitals and the financial challenge the current NSW government must now deal with.

Incumbent Federal Member for Mackellar, Dr Sophie Scamps MP stated the NSW Audit Office’s report into the Northern Beaches Hospital’s delivery of public hospital services, proves the hospital must urgently return to public hands.

“The performance audit clearly states that the Northern Beaches Hospital public-private partnership is not effectively delivering the best quality integrated health services and clinical outcomes to the Northern Beaches community,” Dr Scamps said.

“These findings support the ongoing concerns of hospital staff and patients who have been calling out operational problems, including unsafe staffing levels at the hospital, for far too long.”

Dr Scamps, who called for the independent audit with the Independent Member for Wakehurst Michael Regan, said it is unacceptable that Healthscope is unable to determine the extent to which factors such as insufficient staffing or equipment, result in minor harm or near-miss incidents at the Northern Beaches Hospital, as identified in the performance audit report.

“This proves that Healthscope has no understanding of or concern about how the operational decisions they make are impacting their hardworking staff and patients,” Dr Scamps said.

“The audit clearly states that in the absence of action to enhance staffing levels at Northern Beaches Hospital, there is a risk that patients will experience a lower level of service over time than at NSW public hospitals.”

“The project deed implemented by the former Liberal government has failed our community. We have seen this with Healthscope’s refusal to implement the four adolescent mental health beds our young people need and minimum staffing levels in line with public hospitals. This shows a complete lack of understanding of our community’s health needs now and in the future,” Dr Scamps stated.

ALP Mackellar Candidate Jeffrey Quinn, the only other candidate who sent a statement to the news service, said:

''As a lifelong resident of Mackellar and long-time advocate for public health, I want the Northern Beaches community to know that Labor is listening—and we care deeply about the future of healthcare on the Northern Beaches.

The current situation with the privately operated Northern Beaches Hospital is unsustainable. While it is clear that the NSW Labor Government must not and will not offer Healthscope a blank cheque, it is equally important that Labor clearly affirms its principled commitment to a strong and accessible public hospital system.

As someone who has proudly worked with the Save Mona Vale Hospital Committee for years, I support the return of core hospital services to public hands. The privatisation of the Northern Beaches Hospital by the former Liberal Government was a policy failure that stripped the region of its public healthcare infrastructure and left our growing community vulnerable.

Labor’s values are grounded in universal, publicly funded and publicly delivered healthcare. The recent introduction of legislation in the NSW Parliament to safeguard public hospitals from future privatisation reflects this commitment, and I welcome the recent establishment of a Northern Beaches Hospital Taskforce by the NSW Labor Government which will examine the future of the disastrous privatisation deal. We must apply those principles here in Mackellar.

Any potential transition of the public portion of Northern Beaches Hospital to government operation must be conducted transparently, with proper due diligence, and without propping up private profit. I commend NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey and NSW Health Minister Ryan Park for their cautious and responsible approach, ensuring that the public interest is prioritised.

In recent weeks, Labor Governments have delivered funding for Mona Vale Road and improvements to local bus services—critical wins for our region.

I am here to ensure Labor’s voice is heard clearly and consistently on public health. The community rightly expects and deserves nothing less than transparency, accountability, and a government that prioritises people over profit. My commitment is to advocate for a truly public hospital system, here and across the state.

Let’s bring healthcare back to where it belongs—in the hands of the people.''

ittwater MP Jacqui Scruby stated:

''The Audit Office’s report provides an independent assessment of what we are hearing from the community - that the public private partnership is failing to deliver quality health care expected in the public health system and under the deed,’'

“This audit shows how public patients in our community are being let down. This was a failed Liberal Party experiment at the expense of patients. Emergency and public care should not be run by the for-profit sector. 

“This report adds further strength and momentum to return public services to the public hands at the hospital, so we can have transparency, accountability and real-time oversight of the hospital’s performance and rebuild community confidence. 

“We owe the brave parents of Joe Massa, the parents of baby Harper, and other patients who have been let down by the hospital to get this right.”

“This report, along with the current parliamentary inquiry, are building an overwhelming case for the NSW Government to act. The formation of a taskforce by the NSW treasurer this week to investigate Healthscope - the hospital’s operators who have said they are open to returning the public services to public control - show they mean business. This is a good sign.

“Joe’s Law that will prohibit future public private partnerships put forward by the NSW Government is a step in the right direction, but we still have to undo the partnership at the Northern Beaches Hospital.

“This whole process is going to be like unscrambling an egg and will take time. It needs to be done carefully and we need to protect patients, staff and make sure taxpayers are not delivering windfall profits to the current hospital owners. We can’t afford to get this wrong again. 

Ms Scruby encouraged everyone who has a story to tell or an opinion to make a submission to the current NSW Parliamentary Inquiry.

“I keep seeing stories and comments on social media, but these will only have impact if they are submitted to the inquiry. This is an opportunity for the community to influence what happens next. I’m urging everyone to make a submission. It doesn’t have to be long. It can be made confidentially. Contact my office if you need help, but every voice will add to the weight of evidence piling up in support of returning public health services to public hands.”

Submissions can be made until; May 20 HERE

MORE HERE

SLSA Masters Legends 2025: Congratulations Ted Smithies of Newport SLSC

The third Masters Legends award ceremony was held during the Masters Competition of the 2025 Australian Surf Life Saving Championships (The Aussies). The Masters Legends recognises Masters competitors (individuals or teams) over the age of 35 who have achieved exceptional results over a sustained period in Masters competition.

Masters competitors play an integral part in the sport arena, through their dedication to surf lifesaving, competitiveness, and ability to play a key role within the club structures.

2025 marks 32 years of the Masters Championship at the Aussies. At this year’s Masters Legends awards ceremony, three Masters were recognised for their achievements – Laura Thurtell (Bondi SBLSC, NSW), Rod Taylor (Mooloolaba SLSC, QLD), Louise Santos (Bondi SBLSC, NSW), and Ted Smithies (Newport SLSC, NSW).

Surf Life Saving Australia wishes to congratulate and recognise Laura, Rod, Louis, and Ted for their respective achievements, which are listed below.

Ted Smithies (Newport SLSC, NSW)

Between 2001 and 2024, Ted Smithies won 31 Gold, three silver and three bronze medals in Masters competition in the beach area – sprint, relay and flags. He won again in 2025, taking gold in the 70-74 yrs Male Beach Flags.

In 2016 Newport Masters legend Ted Smithies finishing 1st in the beach sprint  at the World Championships held at the Netherlands.

Ted was made a Life Member of Newport SLSC in 2022. 

Ted has been an active Patrolling member for 25yrs, holding 5 different positions on the management committee and 2 positions on different sub committees during this time.

Ted has been keen on actively mentoring new patrolling members through the club and encouraging them to take on more roles throughout the club.

Newport SLSC said on Thursday April 17, when SLSA announced the awards:

''Congratulations to Newport's Ted Smithies on his induction into the SLSA masters hall of fame. Recognition of his ongoing incredible results in beach sprints and flags.''

Laura Thurtell – Bondi SBLSC, NSW

Laura first competed as a Master in 2006 in the age 40-44 group. She has been a continuous podium finisher since that year and across a range of disciplines including Surf, Board, Tube, Iron Woman, Ski and Beach events. Laura also excels in pool rescue events. In the three years between 2019 and 2022 when the Championships were held, Laura won 19 Gold medals.

Rod Taylor – Mooloolaba SLSC, QLD (Award collected by club representative)

Rod first commenced competing in individual Masters beach events in 2003 in the 50-54 years age group. He has been a continuous podium finisher since 2003 across a wide range of disciplines, and was the most successful master in the over 70 years age group at the 2023 championships winning every event he contested.

Louise Santos – Bondi SBLSC, NSW (Award presented to Louise’s husband)

Between 2005 and 2023, Louise Santos won 32 Gold, 19 Silver and 19 Bronze medals in Masters competition which included Ironwoman, R&R, Board, and Pool Rescue events.

THE SLSA MASTERS LEGENDS

NAME CLUB Year Inducted

Stephen FRY Northcliffe, QLD 2019

Gavin HILL Grange SA, Northcliffe QLD 2019

Mark BENNETTS Southport, QLD 2019

Michael COOK Trigg Island, WA 2019

Neville DeMESTRE North Burleigh, QLD 2019

Paul LEMMON Terrigal, NSW 2019

Martin LYNCH Newport, NSW 2019

Donald MARSH Carlton Park, TAS 2019

Georgina LYNCH Noosa Heads, QLD 2019

Alison PEGG Noosa Heads, QLD 2019

Dori MILLER      Bondi Surf Bathers LSC, NSW 2022

Michael GEDZ                 Queenscliff NSW 2022

David HUTCHISON Glenelg, SA         2023

Davina STRAUSS         Coledale, NSW 2023

Dianne WALLACE-WARD Seacliff, SA 2023

Laura THURTELL Bondi, NSW 2025

Rod TAYLOR Mooloolaba, QLD 2025

Louise SANTOS Bondi, NSW 2025

Ted SMITHIES Newport, NSW 2025

Lifesaving Future in Good Hands with 2025 Junior Lifesavers of the Year

Max McDermott of Warriewood SLSC and Mia Jamal of Avoca Beach SLSC were named the 2025 NSW Junior Lifesavers of the Year on Thursday April 17 after three days of team building and leadership development on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. 

Max McDermott of Warriewood SLSC and Mia Jamal of Avoca Beach SLSC. Photo: SLSNSW

Formally recognised during a presentation ceremony, Mia and Max were two in a group of 22 eager teenagers who came from each of the 11 branches across NSW, having been acknowledged themselves as Junior Lifesavers of the Year for their region. 

The pair represented the Central Coast and Sydney Northern Beaches Branches of Surf Life Saving NSW with distinction, while commendations for all participants proved once again that NSW is blessed with talented young lifesavers along the entire coastline. 

Knowing well that they were privileged to be among a very worthy group, all of whom could have been named as winners, the pair were thrilled. 

“There’s a lot of thought going through my head, mainly excitement and pride,” Mia said. 

“I think I was even a little stressed beforehand but just super happy to be in this position.” 

“I’m a bit shocked actually, it’s fun to win obviously, but it’s fun to just be here and have the experience of the camp,” Max added. 

A reserved but clearly passionate and personable lifesaver, Mia impressed the panel of judges with her vision for more resources to support all abilities in engaging with Surf Life Saving. 

“I was really happy to get such great feedback, I just think it’s so important to build up the platform for people with disabilities and grow their confidence around the water,” she said. 

“I’ve had friends, buddies in school who love the water and Surf Life Saving and I just want to help them and everyone who might not be able to get everything they need.” 

Max, meanwhile, has community in his heart and a passion for what so many people enjoy about Surf Life Saving, the camaraderie. 

“I’ve been really lucky at Warriewood, ever since I was five in the white caps, everyone comes together – the patrols, water safety, everybody. It’s one of the best communities I’ve ever seen,” he said. 

“I want to grow that, and I’m also lucky that this camp has shown me there are so many different ways to do things and so many perspectives which has helped me.” 

Junior lifesaver finalists engaged in a three-day team building and leadership development program at Collaroy, which culminated in Mia and Max being selected as the NSW Junior Lifesavers of the Year. 

“Obviously at the start there’s a little bit of nerves, maybe some awkwardness, but that passed so quickly, and we all had so much fun,” Mia said. 

“It’s been a blast, so many fun activities, got to know the instructors really well, and so good to get to know everyone here and create friendships,” Max added. 

2025 NSW Junior Lifesaver of the Year Participants 

• Thomas Pockley – Far North Coast 
• Stella Byrne – Far North Coast 
• Kai Vigors – North Coast 
• Poppy Barclay – North Coast 
• Max Pengelly – Mid North Coast 
• Zada Robinson – Mid North Coast 
• Alfie Marshall – Lower North Coast 
• Sasha Belic – Lower North Coast 
• Ryan Boustead – Hunter 
• Grace Van Esveld – Hunter 
• Hamish Lawer – Central Coast 
• Mia Jamal – Central Coast 
• Max McDermott – Sydney Northern Beaches 
• Pearl Brown – Sydney Northern Beaches 
• Henri Delesclefs – Sydney 
• Emerson Su Shen Lee – Sydney 
• Nate Heffernan – Illawarra 
• Sienna Guisti – Illawarra 
• Lennox Harvey – South Coast 
• Polly Gazzard – South Coast 
• Archie Rosenbaum – Far South Coast 
• Ruby Bindon – Far South Coast 

Photo: SLSNSW

Week Three April 2025 (April 14 - 27)

Pictures Anzac Day in Pittwater: 2025

Audit Office of NSW Report on Northern Beaches Hospital Released

Lifesaving Future in Good Hands with 2025 Junior Lifesavers of the Year - Congratulations to Max of Warriewood SLSC!

SLSA Masters Legends 2025 - Congratulations Ted Smithies of Newport SLSC

Aquatics Tragic Easter Long Weekend on NSW Coastline As flags come down for 2024-2025 Patrol Season

From the Council Chamber - meeting April 15, 2025 by Pittwater Greens councillor Miranda Korzy

People's Choice Winning Paintings from Northern Beaches Art Society Autumn Exhibition 2025

Park Bench Philosophers Australian Vehicle-to-Grid Technology: tried, tested, network ready​!

NSW Government launches updated strategy to support veterans and their families

Australia’s First Wildlife Specialist Teaching Hospital at Taronga

Narrabeen's RSL ANZAC Village Renewal Project: Feedback Invited - History Insights Sought

DIY Ideas Pittwater's Noxious Weeds: A Great Time To Get Outdoors, Pull Them Out, Replace With Native Plants

Study Confirms Brookvale is an Urban Hot Spot in Need of Trees: Brookvale Structure Plan

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Week Two April 2025 (April 7 - 13)

Profile of the Week The Australian Surf Life Saving Championships 2025: Finals Results + 'Wrap' 

History  Brown's Bay Public Wharf, on McCarrs Creek, Church Point: Some History

Happy Dance Time! Narrabeen Sports High School to receive new Performing Arts Hall as part of major upgrade

Electric Day 1 of 2025 Australian Boardriders Battle Grand Final - NASA, North Steyne into Quarterfinal rounds

Dr Scamps’ plan to protect Pittwater: Nomination For Heritage Listing

Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race 2025: The Race reports by Di Pearson

Mackellar - Warringah 2025 Candidates by Ballot draw + Record Voters this Election + Community Fed up with Juvenile behaviour during election campaigns + How Preferential Voting works: YOU Determine which way your vote flows

Healthscope Announces it Wants to Exit Northern Beaches Hospital, Return it to the Government

Manly to Barrenjoey Peninsula Tops Uptake of NSW Government's Household Battery Incentive + Mackellar MP's Residential Batteries Policy Adopted by Labor + Warringah MP Steggall's Comment + Labor’s home battery plan must be properly targeted to be fair

Our 1 billion pet dogs do real environmental damage; NSW Pet Laws (dog and cat regulations) go under the microscope - Have your say until May 4

ABSLSC 100th Anniversary Monthly Reflections in the Waves - April by Roger Sayers OAM

Aquatics: Risk of rip current deaths highest among young men at unpatrolled beaches: SLSA - UNSW's New Research

Cirque Du Joy – Reset the Dial: The Women’s Resilience Centre’s Most Critical Fundraising Event

Fewer rescues, smarter boaters: Marine Rescue NSW sees drop in March 2025 missions - Cottage Point tops local unit rescues

Partnership Expands Surf Lifesaving NSW's Drone Operations Out of Sight

Park Bench Philosophers: Roderic Quinn's Poems and Prose For Manly, Beacon Hill, Dee Why and Narrabeen - some Autumn School Holidays inspiration to enjoy our great outdoors

Mixed Results: Latest Telco Customer Complaint Performance Rankings from ACMA

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Week One April 2025 (March 31 - April 6)

NB: The 2025 Australian Surf Life Saving Championships 'wrap' will run Sunday April 13 

Profile of the Week: Richard Jeffery Is Working to Reinstall the North Bilgola Lookout Direction Indicator: photos of Surface or original Casting plans needed

History: Methodist Church at Church Point: The Chapel the Point is Named after - Some History 

Bilgola Big Winner in 2024-25 NSW Government's Surf Club Facilities Grants: Over 1.3 Million allocated to local clubs

Australian Boardriders Battle 2025 Grand Final: Seven Local Clubs Have Qualified - runs next weekend 12-13 April and will be broadcast LIVE

Pictures: McCarrs Creek Public Jetty, Brown's Bay Public Jetty, Rostrevor Reserve, Cargo Wharf, Church Point Public Wharf: a few pictures from the Site Investigations for Pittwater Public Wharves History series 2025

Aquatics: It’s on for young and old in Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race by Di Pearson

Bonnie Harvey announced as Greens Candidate for Warringah 2025

Marine Rescue NSW to host International Maritime Rescue Federation events in August

Food: The Waterfront Café & General Store: Lunch at 'On The Deck'

Park Bench Philosophers: Good news beach lovers: our research found 39% less plastic waste around Australian coastal cities than a decade ago - CSIRO

DIY Ideas: BOM's Autumn 2025 Forecast Makes this Season Great for Garden Care + What to Plant Now

2025 Federal Election Questions for Candidates: Send yours in now + Enrolment details (closes April 7) + Postal Votes + Key Dates from the AEC

ANZAC Day 2025 Commemoration Services: when and where

Council Review of Alcohol Free Zones: Feedback closes April 27 2025 - changes for some areas proposed

Digital Parking permits coming for across the Peninsula + CellOPark Dispute 2024-2025 + NSW Government's Ticketless Parking Reforms and Consultation on Equal Access to Beach Parking Permits (open until April 17 2025)

NSW Pet Laws (dog and cat regulations) go under the microscope - Have your say until May 4

Scamps' Call for Residential Battery Subsidies May Ease Council's EV-Charging Stations Dilemma + Solar for Apartment Residents incentive open until December 31 + EV and Hybrid vehicle data for our area by postcode + NSW Inquiry into Infrastructure for electric and alternative energy source vehicles in NSW (closing date for submissions is Friday 2 May 2025) + ‘A house battery you can drive around’: how a handful of Australians are selling power from their cars back to the grid 

Minns Government Announces 'Joe's Law' to End Private-Public Hospital Model As Inquiry into Safety and Quality of Services at Northern Beach Hospital Opens for Submissions Submissions close May 20 2025

Monika's Doggie Rescue: 3 x Chihuahua Pup Litters need ongoing care

Boaters reminded not to get complacent on the water: MRNSW's February 2025 Rescues - Boating Season Closes Anzac Day 2025

Community News Patrol Flags come down Today, Hot Rod Classics Car Show at Pittwater RSL postponed,  Avalon Fire Station Open Day 2025: May 10, NSW Government’s call to action on illegal tree clearing, A Win for Councils - Crackdown on illegal tree clearing!, Appeal for assistance in historical armed robbery investigation - Narrabeen, Warriewood SLSC 2025 Ocean Swim: May 4, Young and old urged to get vaccinated before challenging winter season, Nominations open for the 2025 Public Education Awards, More funding available for war memorials in NSW, Little things, Urgent repairs to Fisher Bay and Castle Rock sections of Manly to Spit Scenic Walkway, ACMA welcomes commercial radio code of practice consultation, Artefacts reveal the courage and sacrifice 110 years on from Gallipoli, Free parenting webinars, Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week: Sally + Lady, New Play on Scotland Island has May dates: 'Wedding Island', Environmental Art & Design Prize Entries Now open, Nominate a Volunteer Today: 2025 Awards, Island Café: Catherine Park, Scotland Island, Consultation on Bus Stop Relocation: Barrenjoey Road Palm Beach, Pittwater Offshore News, Pittwater Sports, Social, Environment, Residents Associations and Groups

Environment Narrabeen Lagoon Reflections, Weeds choking Warriewood Wetlands, Spotted: 3 Black Cockatoos winging their way to Bangalley Headland, Currently flowering: Swamp Mahogany - Eucalyptus Robusta, NSW Government’s call to action on illegal tree clearing, Crackdown on illegal tree clearing!: have your say until June 4, These 3 climate misinformation campaigns are operating during the election run-up; Here’s how to spot them, What would change your mind about climate change? We asked 5,000 Australians – here’s what they told us, Sniping koalas from helicopters: here’s what’s wrong with Victoria’s unprecedented cull, Alleged breach of Greater Glider protections in Brother State Forest (+New logging rules in NSW put the greater glider closer to extinction. When will we start protecting these amazing animals?: ran February 14, 2024), EPA states it requires surface and groundwater monitoring at Woodlawn Eco Precinct, Pet dogs do real environmental damage; NSW Pet Laws (dog and cat regulations) go under the microscope - Have your say until May 4, Superb fairy-wrens’ songs hold clues to their personalities; new study finds, Pittwater Natural Heritage Association - Autumn 2025 Newsletter, Have your say on the NSW Freshwater Fish Stocking Plan: closes April 30, The secret nightlife of an urban woodland - Saving our Species: Field Notes, Fossil fuel companies ‘poisoned the well’ of public debate with climate disinformation; Here’s how Australia can break free, Allowing forests to regenerate is a great way to restore habitat, How a new ‘Fishheart’ project is combining science, community and Indigenous art to restore life in the Baaka-Darling River, Australian honeybees are under attack by mites and beetles; Here’s how to keep your backyard hive safe, Most bees nest in the ground; Offering rocks and gravel is a simple way to help them thrive, How petrostates succeeded in watering down the world’s plan to cut shipping emissions, Lawsuits in the US seeking to address climate change have promise but face uncertain future, Wide variety of old-growth ecosystems across the US makes their conservation a complex challenge, Human connections to seagrass meadows date back 180,000 years, ‘Heavy metals’ contaminate 17% of the world’s croplands, A century after its discovery, scientists capture first confirmed footage of a colossal squid in the deep, ‘They are like my children’: research reveals 4 types of indoor plant owners. Which one are you?, Why healthy eating may be the best way to reduce food waste, Toxic chemical pollution continues on Isle of Man as government defends Unesco conservation status, Pollution scientist talks to freshwater ecologist who warned of Isle of Man toxic silt dumps, Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 Recycling Batteries: at Mona Vale + Avalon Beach, ‘1080 pest management’, Reporting Dogs Offleash - Dog Attacks to Council, Plastic Bread Ties For Wheelchairs, Volunteers for Barrenjoey Lighthouse Tours needed, Stay Safe From Mosquitoes, Mountain Bike Incidents On Public Land, Report fox sightings, marine wildlife rescue group on the Central Coast, Watch out - shorebirds about, Possums In Your Roof?: do the right thing, Aviaries + Possum Release Sites Needed, Bushcare in Pittwater: where + when, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment Activities, Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations in Pittwater, Ringtail Posses, Are turtles not safe in the estuary?, Pittwater Reserves: histories + Walks, Birds, + 

Aquatics Tragic Easter Long Weekend on NSW Coastline As flags come down for 2024-2025 Patrol Season

Children Sunday cartoons This Issue: What do you mean "Explorer Scouts ARE NOT ALLOWED!?": Camp Snoopy, Lifesaving Future in Good Hands with 2025 Junior Lifesavers of the Year, Currently flowering: Swamp Mahogany - Eucalyptus Robusta, The secret nightlife of an urban woodland - Saving our Species: Field Notes, Curious Kids: if heat rises, why does it get colder in the mountains? + If you scoop a bucket of water out of the ocean, does it get lower? + Do whales fart and sneeze?, Stories this week: The Trouble with Children According to Dog + 'The Sound of Silence' read by Simu Liu,  clubs and fun and more for you

Youth Currently flowering: Swamp Mahogany - Eucalyptus Robusta, nSW Government’s call to action on illegal tree clearing: have your say, The secret nightlife of an urban woodland - Saving our Species: Field Notes, Are you thinking about doing an SBAT?, Opportunities: New free TAFE courses to deliver Australia’s manufacturing workforce + Palm Beach Band Comp., Council's 2025 Environmental Art & Design Prize - Entries open now, Word Of The Week: avoirdupois, Fossil teeth show extinct giant kangaroos spent their lives close to home – and perished when the climate changed, Feeling mad? New research suggests mindfulness could help manage anger and aggression, Scientists claim to have found evidence of alien life. But ‘biosignatures’ might hide more than they reveal, When rock music met ancient archeology: the enduring power of Pink Floyd Live at Pompeii, Why can’t I keep still after intense exercise?, ‘The pay is not worth the stress’: research finds 10% of lawyers plan to quit within a year, Why do scientists want to spend billions on a 70-year project in an enormous tunnel under the Swiss Alps?, Yoko Ono, ‘the first female punk rocker’, is an artist of benevolent magic, ‘We get bucketloads of homework’: young people speak about what it’s like to start high school, Want straighter teeth or a gap between? Don’t believe TikTok – filing them isn’t the answer, Once a bestseller, now forgotten – why William by E.H. Young deserves a revisit, One to One: John & Yoko – documentary shows how Lennon and Ono shaped protest music, pop culture and each other, local services for you

Seniors SLSA Masters Legends 2025: Congratulations Ted Smithies of Newport SLSC, 1 in 3 voters aged 60+: Seniors call to candidates ahead of election, Alleviating cost of living pressures key to older Australians’ vote: new polling - COTA, Artefacts reveal the courage and sacrifice 110 years on from Gallipoli, Should we halve the super drawdown rate?: National Seniors, New study finds no evidence technology causes ‘digital dementia’ in older people, Tremors, seizures and paralysis: this brain disorder is more common than multiple sclerosis – but often goes undiagnosed, A weird phrase is plaguing scientific papers – and we traced it back to a glitch in AI training data, Think your specialist is expensive? Look at what others are paying, Local services, groups

DIY Ideas Pittwater's Noxious Weeds: A Great Time To Get Outdoors, Pull Them Out, Replace With Native Plants

Food The Waterfront Café & General Store: Lunch at 'On The Deck'

The Waterfront Café & General Store
1860 Pittwater Rd, Church Point 
Website: www.waterfrontstore.com.au
Phone: 9979 6633
Open: 7 days a week
Breakfast Menu is available from 06:30 - 11:30 daily.
The ‘On The Deck’ Menu is available for lunch and dinner service from 11:30am daily. 
Please note: Slight variations on the menu may occur depending on time of year / seasons.

A fine day, the smell of the estuary and the gentle sounds of commuter boats putt-putting over the still waters inspired seafood fare - and here, after searching everywhere else in Pittwater, the Oysters Kilpatrick fan was able to get a dozen done just as he liked them. Requests elsewhere had been fruitless, but at the Waterfront Cafe they are part of the permanent menu.

Verdict - absolutely excellent - the best he has had in over a decade done the traditional way and with a little something extra that elevated this traditional dish above the splash of Worcestershire and bacon usually applied.

Pictures Anzac Day in Pittwater: 2025

Happy Dance Time! Narrabeen Sports High School to receive new Performing Arts Hall as part of major upgrade

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning, The Hon. Prue Car, and Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby with NSHS Dance Academy students. Photo: Michael Mannington OAM

The Minns Labor Government is continuing its commitment to rebuilding public education in NSW, with the announcement that Narrabeen Sports High School will receive a brand-new Performing Arts Hall, in addition to upgrades already underway.

The new stand-alone performance hall will include:

• A stage and large performance area with seating for up to 500 students
• Two acoustically treated music rooms
• A smaller performance space with a sprung wooden floor to support dance and other creative arts subjects

This marks the first time the school will have a dedicated performing arts space. Until now, the school has relied on off-site venues for performing arts activities.

The new facility complements ongoing upgrades across the campus, which include:

• Renovated Technological and Applied Studies (TAS) classrooms
• Refurbished science labs
• Upgraded amenities and change rooms
• A new roof across large sections of the school

In addition, new turf has been laid on the school’s sports oval. The area had been temporarily used by Narrabeen North Public School during upgrade works for the primary school and has now been returned to Narrabeen Sports High for school use.

Upgrades to 20 classrooms in Block C are also in progress, with final designs nearing completion and construction expected to begin in the coming months.

This work is part of the Minns Government’s record $8.9 billion investment to deliver new and upgraded public schools across NSW, including $3.6 billion for schools in Western Sydney.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning, Prue Car, and Member for Pittwater, Jacqui Scruby, visited the school on Friday Aril 11 to tour the new upgrades and meet with staff, students, and parents as Term 1 came to a close.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning, The Hon. Prue Car, said: 

“After years of neglect and broken promises from the former Liberal government, the Minns Labor Government is delivering high quality facilities for the Northern Beaches.

“Investing in our public schools is essential to ensuring every student in NSW has access to a world-class education.

“This upgrade will enrich student life at Narrabeen Sports High school—academically, physically, and creatively—for years to come.

“These improvements strengthen schools as community assets that serve local families and foster student success across generations.”

Member for Pittwater, Jacqui Scruby, said:

“Dedicated creative and performing arts facilities at Narrabeen Sports High School are a big win for both the school and our local community.

“These are more than just buildings—they are an investment in our young people’s talents and a major expansion of the educational opportunities at the school.

“I advocated strongly for these facilities in Parliament and directly with the Minister, highlighting the school’s lack of creative space. With a government that supports the creative industries, we’re backing the next generation of talent from the ground up.

“I thank the NSW Government for its collaborative approach and commitment to the arts—it will have a lasting impact on this school and our region. This was the culmination of community action and advocacy of the P&C and will help our kids be shining lights on stages for years to come.

“Pittwater has a proud tradition in the creative arts, and it’s wonderful to see our students finally getting the performance spaces they deserve.”

Narrabeen Sports High School Principal, Heidi Currie, said:

“We’re excited to see our students and staff make the most of these new and upgraded facilities.

“Education opens the door to opportunity, and we’re proud to partner with our community to build a school that challenges students to thrive in a supportive and inclusive environment.

“These flexible, innovative learning spaces are designed to support the success of every student— and we look forward to what’s ahead.”

Suzie Stanford - President of the P&C said:

“On behalf of the P&C Executive and the entire Narrabeen Sports High School community, we are beyond thrilled about today’s announcement of a brand-new, purpose-built Creative & Performing Arts building for Narrabeen Sports High School.

“Today marks a bright new chapter for our school. NSHS will finally have purpose-built, state-of-the-art Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) classrooms and performance spaces to learn and perform in. These facilities will provide endless opportunities for our talented  students and deliver much-needed, dedicated CAPA spaces for our students to develop and showcase their creative talents.

“This announcement is the result of great collaboration and coordinated efforts from our State and Federal MPs, the NSW Education Department, the NSW Government, the school staff, and the P&C. The dream of this exceptional facility has finally become a reality, giving our students and teachers the resources they deserve. We are deeply grateful to the NSW Education Department and the NSW Government for investing in our school, listening to our pleas for support, and recognising the incredible potential of our students and teachers. 

“We would also like to express our heartfelt gratitude to our local member for Pittwater, Jacqui Scruby, who championed our cause from her very first day in Parliament *, and to our federal MP for Mackellar, Dr Sophie Scamps, whose long-standing support has been invaluable. Without their dedication and advocacy, this dream would not have been realised.

“This new facility will create fantastic opportunities for all our students to explore their creative passions, whether in dance, music, or drama. Our Dance Academy and HSC students will finally have purpose-built spaces where they can truly shine and showcase their talents.”

MORE HERE

Line honours to Koa in Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race 

Saturday April 12, 2025

Koa, the TP52 owned by Andy Kearnan and co-skippered by he and Mark Griffith, has taken line honours in the 2025 Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race that started off Barrenjoey Headland on Friday at 1pm.

Koa finished the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club’s annual east coast classic at 11.10.21.46pm this evening, in the time of 1 day, 10hrs 21mins 46secs. It was well outside the record time set by Peter Harburg’s super maxi, Black Jack, of 17hrs 10mins 31secs in 2022, but Koa’s crew sailed an exemplary race.

Line honours to Koa. Photo: Alex Dare/ Pittwater Coffs.

Koa also currently holds top spot for overall honours and will be hard to beat. Behind her, six yachts are battling for a podium finish, the order changing throughout the race so far. Shortly after midnight, Richard Hudson’s modified Farr 45, Pretty Woman, had assumed second place overall, overtaking Geoff Hill’s Santa Cruz 72, Antipodes, from Hong Kong. 

Anarchy (Grant Pocklington), Sticky (Richard Harris), last year’s line honours victor, XS Moment (Ray Hudson) and Khaleesi (Sandy Farquharson) are also in the picture with the first two-handed entry, Verite, sitting eighth overall.

Full reports by Di Pearson HERE

Electric Day 1 of 2025 Australian Boardriders Battle Grand Final 

Saturday April 12 2025

42 of the nation's top boardrider clubs put on electrifying performances in the opening rounds of the Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle Presented by NRMA Insurance. Burleigh Heads delivered fun and contestable conditions, creating a day of fierce competition and comradery.

Event wildcards Merewether Boardriders — who narrowly missed qualification through the state rounds — delivered the field a powerful reminder of their talent, posting the highest heat total of the opening round with a combined 41.49 points. 

A major upset saw powerhouse club North Narrabeen bow out of competition following a costly error. Veteran and former professional surfer Nathan Hedge mistakenly took off on two waves — despite being permitted only one as the designated Power Surfer under the event rules — resulting in a five-point penalty that ultimately ended the club’s campaign.

Also bowing out were Bungan and Queenscliff. 

However, North Avalon Surfriders Association (NASA) and North Steyne BRC were successful in their opening heats and will contest the Quarterfinal rounds today, Sunday April 13 with totals of 29.79 and 36.50 respectively in the Round 1 heats

NASA surfers competing on Saturday were Arch Whiteman, Fraser Dovell, Cedar Leigh-Jones, Isaiah Vaealeki and Shane Carroll.

The North Steyne crew comprised Sol Gruendling, Axel Rose-Curotta, Saxon Reber, Dayyan Neve and Isabel Higgs.

Under the pressure of a stacked field, multiple past Grand Final winners Snapper Rocks Boardriders showed exactly why they remain one of the most dominant clubs in the country — delivering consistent, high-scoring performances across all five surfers to claim victory in their opening round heat with a total of 36.09 points.

The newly introduced Redemption Round debuted a thrilling twist to the 2025 Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle presented by NRMA Insurance — offering clubs that narrowly missed qualification in their opening heats one final chance to fight their way back into contention. Freshwater, after finishing just over a point behind Byron Bay, gained that second chance. 

However, after making several critical mistakes in their opening round, event favourites Torquay Boardriders Club also found themselves facing elimination. But when the pressure was at its peak, Torquay rose to the occasion and dominated the heat to secured one of the final three spots in Sunday’s Battle Rounds. Cronulla and North End also secured a spot in the Quarterfinals through the redemption round and Freshwater narrowly missed out, again by just over a point.

All results from Day 1 are available in LiveHeats. 

Mascot Challenge

Today’s Mascot Challenge transformed Burleigh Hill into a vibrant showcase of colour, laughter and theatrics, as club mascots took centre stage. Cheered on by an enthusiastic crowd and judged by a specialist panel, the competition delivered plenty of entertainment and club spirit.

In the end, it was too close to call — North Shore Boardriders and Bungan Boardriders shared the honours, splitting the $2500 prize. In fact, after bowing out early, Bungan's team could be cheering on everyone on every team all day long.

From emerging juniors to seasoned pros, Olympians and World Champions, the opening rounds served up thrilling performances as clubs from every corner of the country put their depth, strategy and local pride on full display.

All eyes now turn to Finals Day — where the nation’s best boardrider clubs will go head-to-head in a battle for ultimate bragging rights.

The stage is set for an explosive showdown at Burleigh Heads, with conditions expected to fire and Australia’s top surfing talent ready to leave nothing in the tank as they, surf, run, and sprint their way towards glory.

The event is being broadcast LIVE on mySURFtv YouTube, Kayo Freebies, and Foxtel, ensuring fans can tune in from anywhere. Watch Day One HERE and Day Two HERE.

Below, a sample of why the Bungan Boardriders team of Darcy Crump, Milla Brown, Luca Elder, Lucy Brown and Phil Hoile, and support crew, may return home a little hoarse:

The Australian Surf Life Saving Championships 2025: Finals Results + 'Wrap' 

Newport SLSC excelled again this year, finishing the championships ranked 2nd on 249 points, with their Newport Kinghorn Academy Surf Racing Academy accounting for a swathe of those - although all local clubs had members winning points for their club in each Age Division or ensuring their club's colours were front and centre on the sand or in the water. 

The peninsula also saw a large crew of officials heading north to ensure the championships could take place, happily giving their time, energy, and a fair amount of money, to be where they could support the events.

On a special note during the week of Aussies, Newport's Life Member Gary Cook received a recognition award for his 30 years of service as an official which is an outstanding contribution to his club and lifesaving as a whole.

Gary Cook at Newport SLSC's 2025 Pool to Peak swims. Photo: A J Guesdon

2025 Surfboat Officials. Photo: Malcolm Trees

2025 Surfboat Officials - ABSLSC's Melinda Akehurst in the centre. Photo: Malcolm Trees

Three great peninsula March Past teams made the Finals with the Collaroy Ladies being awarded the Gold, the Freshwater Maroon in 5th and the Collaroy Bears in 8th.

The Collaroy Ladies Team have been judged the best of all the March Past teams at Branch, State and Nationals over several years, with the Collaroy Bears also always among the best of the best. These two teams are excellent exponents of the traditional event that dates back to the pioneering days of Surf Life Saving. Ladies March Past was first held in 1946 and Collaroy competed and won the first NSW Ladies March Past Championship in 1947. In those days the team comprised a total of 20 marchers.

The Collaroy Ladies weren't the club's only Gold on the sand with Kerry Armstrong winning the 70-74 Female 1km Beach Run and Miho Kawasaki winning the 60-64 Female 1km Beach Run. 

Some of the biggest smiles came from more than 30 athletes hitting the beach for the Adaptive Program events on Day Eight of the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships.  

With most competitors tackling all events – beach runs, beach sprints, flags, swim, board and wading – the competition was fierce in front of a loud and energetic crowd at North Kirra. 

In its second year of operation, the Adaptive Program at Aussies aims to give people of all abilities the opportunity to experience the exhilarating thrill of surf sports, whilst growing participation and competition opportunities nationwide. 

John Baker AM ESM, President of Surf Life Saving Australia said, “This shows that Surf Life Saving is for everyone. We pride ourselves and our Surf Clubs on being really open and it doesn’t matter where you come from, what your ability is, what your background, everyone is welcome at a Surf Club, and everyone can find a meaningful place and rewarding experience. 

“This is a great example of what we want to be as a movement which is open to all Australians. 

“We are seeing growth in numbers from last year and we would like to grow those numbers further. Our aim is to make this a showcase every year and be an example to other sports on what they can do with inclusivity and adaptive programs. 

“There is a huge amount of interest from those here at the Australian Surf Life Saving Champs and the support has been great to see.” Mr. Baker said

Gold, Silver, Bronze, points and 'having a go' is still brimming over across all ages - it's a good thing everyone has an Autumn School Holidays break to wind down in.

MORE HERE

Week Two April 2025 (April 7 - 13)

Happy Dance Time! Narrabeen Sports High School to receive new Performing Arts Hall as part of major upgrade

Electric Day 1 of 2025 Australian Boardriders Battle Grand Final - NASA, North Steyne into Quarterfinal rounds

Dr Scamps’ plan to protect Pittwater: Nomination For Heritage Listing

Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race 2025: The Race reports by Di Pearson

Mackellar - Warringah 2025 Candidates by Ballot draw + Record Voters this Election + Community Fed up with Juvenile behaviour during election campaigns + How Preferential Voting works: YOU Determine which way your vote flows

Healthscope Announces it Wants to Exit Northern Beaches Hospital, Return it to the Government

Manly to Barrenjoey Peninsula Tops Uptake of NSW Government's Household Battery Incentive + Mackellar MP's Residential Batteries Policy Adopted by Labor + Warringah MP Steggall's Comment + Labor’s home battery plan must be properly targeted to be fair

ABSLSC 100th Anniversary Monthly Reflections in the Waves - April by Roger Sayers OAM

Aquatics: Risk of rip current deaths highest among young men at unpatrolled beaches: SLSA - UNSW's New Research

Cirque Du Joy – Reset the Dial: The Women’s Resilience Centre’s Most Critical Fundraising Event

Fewer rescues, smarter boaters: Marine Rescue NSW sees drop in March 2025 missions - Cottage Point tops local unit rescues

Partnership Expands Surf Lifesaving NSW's Drone Operations Out of Sight

Park Bench Philosophers: Roderic Quinn's Poems and Prose For Manly, Beacon Hill, Dee Why and Narrabeen - some Autumn School Holidays inspiration to enjoy our great outdoors

Mixed Results: Latest Telco Customer Complaint Performance Rankings from ACMA

________________________

Week One April 2025 (March 31 - April 6)

NB: The 2025 Australian Surf Life Saving Championships 'wrap' will run Sunday April 13 

Bilgola Big Winner in 2024-25 NSW Government's Surf Club Facilities Grants: Over 1.3 Million allocated to local clubs

Australian Boardriders Battle 2025 Grand Final: Seven Local Clubs Have Qualified - runs next weekend 12-13 April and will be broadcast LIVE

Pictures: McCarrs Creek Public Jetty, Brown's Bay Public Jetty, Rostrevor Reserve, Cargo Wharf, Church Point Public Wharf: a few pictures from the Site Investigations for Pittwater Public Wharves History series 2024-25

Aquatics: It’s on for young and old in Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race by Di Pearson

Bonnie Harvey announced as Greens Candidate for Warringah 2025

Marine Rescue NSW to host International Maritime Rescue Federation events in August

Food: The Waterfront Café & General Store: Lunch at 'On The Deck'

Park Bench Philosophers: Good news beach lovers: our research found 39% less plastic waste around Australian coastal cities than a decade ago - CSIRO

DIY Ideas: BOM's Autumn 2025 Forecast Makes this Season Great for Garden Care + What to Plant Now

2025 Federal Election Questions for Candidates: Send yours in now + Enrolment details (closes April 7) + Postal Votes + Key Dates from the AEC

ANZAC Day 2025 Commemoration Services: when and where

Council Review of Alcohol Free Zones: Feedback closes April 27 2025 - changes for some areas proposed

Digital Parking permits coming for across the Peninsula + CellOPark Dispute 2024-2025 + NSW Government's Ticketless Parking Reforms and Consultation on Equal Access to Beach Parking Permits (open until April 17 2025)

NSW Pet Laws (dog and cat regulations) go under the microscope - Have your say until May 4

Scamps' Call for Residential Battery Subsidies May Ease Council's EV-Charging Stations Dilemma + Solar for Apartment Residents incentive open until December 31 + EV and Hybrid vehicle data for our area by postcode + NSW Inquiry into Infrastructure for electric and alternative energy source vehicles in NSW (closing date for submissions is Friday 2 May 2025) + ‘A house battery you can drive around’: how a handful of Australians are selling power from their cars back to the grid 

Minns Government Announces 'Joe's Law' to End Private-Public Hospital Model As Inquiry into Safety and Quality of Services at Northern Beach Hospital Opens for Submissions Submissions close May 20 2025

Monika's Doggie Rescue: 3 x Chihuahua Pup Litters need ongoing care

Boaters reminded not to get complacent on the water: MRNSW's February 2025 Rescues - Boating Season Closes Anzac Day 2025

Pictures McCarrs Creek Public Jetty, Brown's Bay Public Jetty, Rostrevor Reserve, Cargo Wharf, Church Point Public Wharf: Site Investigations for Pittwater Public Wharves History series 2024-25

Community News Autumn School Holidays - Easter Break, Public Meeting: Hear the Candidates Speak, Meet  + Greet 2025, Little things, Avalon Quilters 'The Sum of Us' Raffle Quilt for Mito Foundation, Narrabeen Lakes Sailing Club Last Sail for the Season, Wedding Island, Have your say on the NSW Freshwater Fish Stocking Plan, Island Café: Catherine Park, ACMA welcomes commercial radio code of practice consultation, Pittwater Vessel Thefts: Appeal for Information, Showbags given green light for 2025 Royal Easter Show, Marine Rescue Broken Bay News, Partnership Expands Drone Operations Out of Sight, Classics, Hot Rod and Bikes Show 2025, Expert youth crime panel announced for Applied Research in Crime and Justice Conference, Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week: Hera + Doris, Consultation on Bus Stop Relocation: Barrenjoey Road Palm Beach, 2025 Environmental Art & Design Prize Entries Now open, Proposed Road Reserve Closure - Council Land Sale Avalon Beach, Renewing the water main in Old Barrenjoey Road: Update, ANZAC Day 2025 Commemoration Services, Nominate a Volunteer Today: 2025 Awards, New Wyong Safe Haven offers mental health support, National worker registration scheme feedback, Pittwater Offshore News, Pittwater  Organisations, Sports, Social, Environment, Residents Associations and Groups

Environment Noisy Friarbirds Spotted in Local treed suburbs for the first time, Good boy or bad dog? Our 1 billion pet dogs do real environmental damage; NSW Pet Laws (dog and cat regulations) go under the microscope - Have your say until May 4, Kudos to Council workers: Blue Groper Rescued from Rockpool, Aussie Bird Count 2024 Results, Pittwater Natural Heritage Association - Autumn 2025 Newsletter, Have your say on the NSW Freshwater Fish Stocking Plan, Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 Recycling Batteries: at Mona Vale + Avalon Beach, ‘1080 pest management’, Reporting Dogs Offleash - Dog Attacks to Council, Plastic Bread Ties For Wheelchairs, Volunteers for Barrenjoey Lighthouse Tours needed, Stay Safe From Mosquitoes, Friday essay: in an uncertain world, ‘green relief’ offers respite, healing and beauty, Coalition plan to dump fuel efficiency penalties would make Australia a global outlier, Peter Dutton’s climate policy backslide threatens Australia’s clout in the Pacific – right when we need it most, We study ‘planktivores’ – and found an amazing diversity of shapes among plankton-feeding fishes, Reality check: coral restoration won’t save the world’s reefs, Fresh details emerge on Australia’s new climate migration visa for Tuvalu residents. An expert explains, Batteries for all, not just the rich? Labor’s home battery plan must be properly targeted to be fair, 98% of Queensland prawn areas at risk of inundation by rising seas this century, Biosecurity policies can be annoying – but a century of Antarctic data shows they work, Antarctica’s hidden threat: meltwater under the ice sheet amplifies sea-level rise, New satellite data shows NZ’s major cities are sinking – meaning rising seas will affect them sooner, Earth’s oceans once turned green – and they could change again, Drug pollution in water is making salmon take more risks – new research, Wave energy’s huge potential could finally be unlocked by the power of sound – new research, Mountain Bike Incidents On Public Land, Report fox sightings, marine wildlife rescue group on the Central Coast, Watch out - shorebirds about, Possums In Your Roof?: do the right thing, Aviaries + Possum Release Sites Needed, Bushcare in Pittwater: where + when, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment Activities, Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations in Pittwater, Ringtail Posses, Are turtles not safe in the estuary?, Pittwater Reserves: histories + Walks, Birds, + 

Aquatics  Risk of rip current deaths highest among young men at unpatrolled beaches: SLSA - UNSW's New Research

Children Sunday Cartoons: Paddington goes on Holidays, School Holidays film - Abner the Invisible Dog - Full Family Adventure Movie by Family Central, The sydney Royal Easter Show showbag Began as an Australian Sample Bag, Curious Kids: why is the Sun orange when white stars are the hottest? + why are there waves? + where are all the other galaxies hidden? + why do eggs have a yolk?, Stories this Issue: Jim and the Beanstalk + 'Getting to Know Ruben Plotnick' read by Zach Braff, groups, clubs and fun and more for you

Youth Happy Dance Time! Narrabeen Sports High School to receive new Performing Arts Hall as part of major upgrade, The Sydney Royal Easter Show Showbag Began as an Australian sample Bag, Out Front winner announced,  Forest High School opens NSW’s first in-school op shop, Killarney Heights High gets a dose of Tahitian culture, Are you thinking about doing an SBAT?, Good Day Sunshine - A Winter's Tale (1974), Opportunities: New free TAFE courses to deliver Australia’s manufacturing workforce + Band Comp. at Palm Beach + SHAPE 2025 + Council's 2025 Environmental Art & Design Prize Entries open now + Youth Week creative arts competition: ACYP + NSW Youth Week 2025 + Youth Advisory Council + 2025 Game Changer Challenge + Learner drivers benefit as more resources become available online  +School Leavers Support, Word Of The Week: Rest, Friday essay: in an uncertain world ‘green relief’ offers respite, healing and beauty, Social media before bedtime wreaks havoc on our sleep − a sleep researcher explains why screens alone aren’t the main culprit, 3.5 million Australians experienced fraud last year; This could be avoided through 6 simple steps, 47% of Gen Z mainly vote to avoid a fine; It’s a sign of younger Australians’ discontent with democracy, Do I need another COVID booster? Which one should I choose? Can I get it with my flu shot?, Tools like Apple’s photo Clean Up are yet another nail in the coffin for being able to trust our eyes, Do Inuit languages really have many words for snow? The most interesting finds from our study of 616 languages, Can we really resurrect extinct animals or are we just creating hi-tech lookalikes?, Next generation computer chips could process data at the speed of light – new research, The ‘morning shed’: a brief history of the sometimes dangerous lengths women have gone to look beautiful, Babe at 30: why this much-loved film is one of the best cinematic translations of a children’s book, Siena: The Rise of Painting, 1300-1350 at the National Gallery is a remarkable achievement, local services for you

Seniors Good Day Sunshine - A Winter's Tale (1974), $180,000 to support people living with macular disease, Big changes are planned for aged care in 2025; But you’d never know from the major parties, As more communities have to consider relocation we explore what happens to the land after people leave, New figures reveal older Australians skipping dental treatment, Innovative initiative reduces hospital length of stay for older patients, Call to action as retirees hit hard amid market volatility, Here’s a simple, science-backed way to sharpen your thinking and improve your memory, Can you spot a financial fake? How AI is raising our risks of billing fraud, Wit, charm and heart: novelist Kerry Greenwood, creator of Phryne Fisher, was a true original, Do I need another COVID booster? Which one should I choose? Can I get it with my flu shot?, Gold rush Melbourne and post-war boom: how Australia overcame housing shortages in the past, Tools like Apple’s photo Clean Up are yet another nail in the coffin for being able to trust our eyes, Local services and groups for you

DIY Ideas BOM's Autumn 2025 Forecast Makes this Season Great for Garden Care + What to Plant Now

Food The Waterfront Café & General Store: Lunch at 'On The Deck'

The Waterfront Café & General Store
1860 Pittwater Rd, Church Point 
Website: www.waterfrontstore.com.au
Phone: 9979 6633
Open: 7 days a week
Breakfast Menu is available from 06:30 - 11:30 daily.
The ‘On The Deck’ Menu is available for lunch and dinner service from 11:30am daily. 
Please note: Slight variations on the menu may occur depending on time of year / seasons.

A fine day, the smell of the estuary and the gentle sounds of commuter boats putt-putting over the still waters inspired seafood fare - and here, after searching everywhere else in Pittwater, the Oysters Kilpatrick fan was able to get a dozen done just as he liked them. Requests elsewhere had been fruitless, but at the Waterfront Cafe they are part of the permanent menu.

Verdict - absolutely excellent - the best he has had in over a decade done the traditional way and with a little something extra that elevated this traditional dish above the splash of Worcestershire and bacon usually applied.

Bilgola Big Winner in 2024-25 NSW Government's Surf Club Facilities Grants: Over 1.3 Million allocated to local clubs

Minister for Sport, Steve Kamper confirmed that more than a quarter of the state’s surf clubs saw their applications approved in a major announcement at Coogee on Thursday April 3. 

The Program aims to assist eligible Surf Life Saving Clubs throughout NSW to create new and upgraded inclusive and accessible facilities incorporating best practice design principles that: 

• Remove barriers to participation in sport and recreation for everyone but particularly for women and girls, people with disability, First Nations peoples, people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities, and LGBTQIA+ people 
• Increase the use of Surf Life Saving facilities by other community groups and/or the public 
• Improve safety at Surf Life Saving facilities and the beaches they patrol 
• Improve the financial and/or environmental sustainability of surf clubs

Bilgola Surf Life Saving Club will receive $312,370 to put towards a critical upgrade to Bilgola Surf Life Saving Club’s bathrooms and outdoor pergola, enhancing member use and improving the club’s suitability for community events and venue hire. 

''These updates will ensure a safer, more functional facility for both lifesaving and club operations and the broader community.'' the club stated in its application.

Warriewood Surf Life Saving Club has been granted $86,940 for a Solar system. Warriewood Surf Life Saving Club will install a 40.94 kW solar system with battery storage, reducing energy costs and supporting sustainability. This initiative benefits club members and the community by ensuring more funds are available for lifesaving activities and facility upgrades, ultimately enhancing service reliability and reducing the club's environmental footprint.

The Pittwater Electorate has also seen Narrabeen Beach Surf Life Saving Club allocated $47,294 for Solar Panels and a Battery System.

Narrabeen Surf Life Saving Club plans to install a 26.4 kW solar energy system with 2 Tesla Powerwall 3 batteries and Backup Gateway. This project will enhance energy efficiency and resilience, reducing reliance on grid power and ensuring continuous operation during outages. The installation supports long-term sustainability and cost savings.

South Narrabeen Surf Life Saving Club has also been allocated $216,954 as part of the Pittwater Electorates grants - this will be put towards South Narrabeen Surf Life Saving Club in its 101st year. 

'This initiative will benefit the community by investing in upgrades like solar power, air conditioning, and modern facilities. These improvements will attract more events, increase revenue, and ensure financial independence, allowing the club to provide top-quality community services for another 100 years.' South Narrabeen Surf Life Saving Club stated

A 'Warringah' grant of $34,337 has been allocated to South Curl Curl Surf Life Saving Club. This will be put towards Minor works for  Hall Acoustic Improvements. The Project entails works to add acoustic tiles, door seals and other improvements to hard surfaces in the community hall at South Curl Curl to reduce acoustic scatter for public speaking. The club is a 1930's building and is used for training events, community functions, and demographics who have difficulty hearing speech.

Dee Why SLSC will benefit from the $215,425 allocated to their upgrade of Dee Why Surf Life Saving Club’s bathroom and changing facilities through demolition, plumbing, tiling, electrical, and carpentry work. Expected outcomes include modernised, durable, and functional spaces that enhance user comfort and safety, supporting increased use by club members and the community for this Manly Electorate surf club. 

The Manly Electorate also sees North Curl Curl Surf Life Saving Club granted $98,738 for 'Enhancing Community Engagement and Financial Resilience'.

This project will transform North Curl Curl Surf Life Saving Club’s facilities, relocating and expanding the wet area/bar to support community gatherings and social events. The improvements will foster stronger community ties, support member retention, and encourage new lifesaving memberships by creating a vibrant, family-friendly, and welcoming social space.

The biggest allocation for Manly's surf clubs is $181,583 for North Steyne Surf Life Saving Club's Building Upgrade project.

MORE HERE

Australian Boardriders Battle 2025 Grand Final: Seven Local Clubs Have Qualified

Photo: Surfing Australia

The Grand Final of the 12th edition of the Australian Boardriders Battle will run next weekend, April 12-13, at Burleigh Heads, with the Round 1 match-ups now available. Seven local boardriders clubs have qualified to compete.

Following the unavoidable postponement due to Cyclone Alfred, Surfing Australia has worked closely with event partners and local authorities to secure the new dates that will allow for a safe and successful event.

The Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle Grand Final presented by NRMA Insurance is the pinnacle of Australian club surfing, bringing together the best boardrider clubs in the country to compete for national glory. The rescheduled event will ensure the competition maintains its high standard, providing elite-level surfing, thrilling matchups in an unmatched format, and a world-class atmosphere.

This event brings together 42 of Australia’s best boardrider clubs who have battled through state qualifiers to earn their place in this prestigious event. They will compete for national glory, substantial prize money, and ultimate bragging rights in the country's biggest grassroots surfing competition.

At Event 7 – ABB NSW Central, held November 9th 2024 at North Narrabeen, Freshwater, North Narrabeen, North Steyne, North Avalon (NASA), Queenscliff, Bungan and Curl Curl secured a place in the Grand Final. They were among ten local boardrider clubs competing. 

See: Australian Boardriders Battle Central Round at North Narrabeen: Freshwater Boardriders win

The Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle Central NSW qualifier at North Narrabeen was won by Freshwater Boardriders Club. The crew from Freshwater Boardriders comprised Lex O'Connor, Fletcher Kelleher, Tommy Myers, Layne Beachley, and Sam Brown.

Freshwater had multiple standout moments as they progressed through heats, but it was team leader Tommy Myers who carried his team to victory.

"This is probably one of the sickest days of the whole year., " Myers said. "Congratulations to all the other finalists and teams. We traditionally haven't always been in the final, so it feels good to start to get a bit of momentum and have some great juniors coming up through Freshy!"

Surfing NSW Contest Director Corey Ross said: "We were super excited to head to Narrabeen for stop number two of the NSW Regional Qualifiers for the Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle. 

We had a record 16 clubs locked in to compete for the prize of being the Central Region's best boardrider club. Waves were fun for the event, in the two-foot range with light winds all day. There was plenty of exciting action, along with a number of sponsor activations at the event, so there was lots to do for everyone."

The North Narrabeen Boardriders team, who came second, had Nathan Hedge, Davey Cathels, Jordy Lawler, Jesse Daish and Ruby Trew competing.

North Steyne Boardriders secured the third place slot with Sol Gruendling, Blake Levett, Dayyan Neve, Izzy Higgs and Tiaan Cronje.

However with Bungan’s team of Darcy Crump, Luca Elder, Milla Brown, Lucy Brown and Phil Hoile, or NASA’s combo of Van Whiteman, Shane Carroll, Ollie Heinz, Molly Shepperd and Isaiah Vaeleki, you can understand how great the surfing was in the qualifier, and what those watching may be in for next weekend.

Last year, North Avalon, North Narrabeen and North Steyne all made it through the massive Saturday challenges to the last day of surfing.

See: Local Australian Boardriders Battle 2024 Grand Finalists Looking Forward To Next Comps.

A Format Like No Other

The Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle (ABB) Grand Final presented by NRMA Insurance is renowned for its exciting and unique format, where club teams of five—comprising Open Men, Open Women, Junior, Masters, and a Power Surfer—compete in a tag-team relay style event. Strategy, endurance, and surf prowess combine to create some of the most intense and dramatic heats seen in competitive surfing.

MORE HERE

Pictures McCarrs Creek Public Jetty, Brown's Bay Public Jetty, Rostrevor Reserve, Cargo Wharf, Church Point Public Wharf: Site Investigations for Pittwater Public Wharves History series 2024-25

Food The Waterfront Café & General Store: Lunch at 'On The Deck'

The Waterfront Café & General Store
1860 Pittwater Rd, Church Point 
Website: www.waterfrontstore.com.au
Phone: 9979 6633
Open: 7 days a week
Breakfast Menu is available from 06:30 - 11:30 daily.
The ‘On The Deck’ Menu is available for lunch and dinner service from 11:30am daily. 
Please note: Slight variations on the menu may occur depending on time of year / seasons.

A fine day, the smell of the estuary and the gentle sounds of commuter boats putt-putting over the still waters inspired seafood fare - and here, after searching everywhere else in Pittwater, the Oysters Kilpatrick fan was able to get a dozen done just as he liked them. Requests elsewhere had been fruitless, but at the Waterfront Cafe they are part of the permanent menu.

Verdict - absolutely excellent - the best he has had in over a decade done the traditional way and with a little something extra that elevated this traditional dish above the splash of Worcestershire and bacon usually applied.

Community News 2025 Election Questions for Candidates: Send yours in now + Key Dates Enrolment details, Avalon Quilters 'The Sum of Us' Raffle Quilt for Mito Foundation, Wedding Island, Island Café: Catherine Park Scotland Island, Autumn School Holidays - Easter Break, Pittwater Vessel Thefts: Appeal for Information, Whale Entanglement Rescue Training: Marine Rescue Broken Bay & Cottage Point,  Beach Clean - North Narrabeen: Sunday April 6 at 4pm, Hard courts at Winnererremy Bay Park: Build Commences, Repairs for Palm Beach Rockpool To Commence, Flooding at Middle Creek Reserve /Boat Ramp  Cycle/Footpath, NSW Government receives Drug Summit report, Have your say on the NSW Freshwater Fish Stocking Plan, residential eating disorders centre opens in Charlestown, Update on EPA debris balls investigation, Harmful LGBTQ+ conversion practices now banned in NSW, Classics, Hot Rod and Bikes Show 2025, NSW Government extends mental health support for first responders, Consultation on Bus Stop Relocation: Barrenjoey Road Palm Beach, Change to Western Sydney Airport night time flight paths: now over Palm Beach!, Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week: Chuckles + Carlos, Proposed Road Reserve Closure - Land adjoining 9 Careel Head Road and 38 Burrawong Road Avalon Beach, Coles Newport Re-opening: Wednesday  April 9, 2025 Environmental Art & Design Prize judges announced - Entries open now, New technology brings interpreters on every police beat, Honouring extraordinary efforts during major NSW floods, ANZAC Day 2025 Commemoration Services, Renewing the water main in Old Barrenjoey Road: Update, Nominate a Volunteer Today: 2025 Awards, Consulting on payday super draft legislation, Veteran wellbeing must remain national priority for long term: RSL NSW, National worker registration scheme feedback, Installation of fixed speed camera on Pacific Highway between Cowan and Brooklyn, NSW History Awards 2025: Submissions open, Pittwater Offshore News, Pittwater  Organisations, Sports, Social, Environment, Residents Associations and Groups

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DIY Ideas BOM's Autumn 2025 Forecast Makes this Season Great for Garden Care + What to Plant Now