Week Four June 2025 (June 16 - 22)

 

NSW Budget green lights congestion busting Mona Vale Road West upgrade - Scruby delivers on Election Promise: Secures Funding 

On Saturday June 21 the Minns NSW and Albanese Australian Governments confirmed they have combined to provide matching funding worth a total of $500 million to kickstart the long-awaited congestion busting Mona Vale Road West project.

The NSW Government stated it is prioritising delivering essential services that people rely on, including key road infrastructure, that will set NSW up for long-term prosperity.

''This is about building a better NSW through better economic management, all without privatisation.''

The NSW State Budget commits $250 million for the project, matching an Australian Government commitment of $250 million on 22 March by the Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Catherine King.

See: Scamps-Scruby-Quinn Secure $250m Funding Commitment from Federal Labor for Mona Vale Road West Upgrade - March 2025 And: Pittwater MP shows NSW Premier unfinished Mona Vale Road West Construction site - November 2024

NSW Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to infrastructure that improves people’s lives in NSW. I am delighted to be able to give the green light on this project which will make a real difference to the local community with congestion and safety improvements over 3.4 km of one of the busiest arterial routes on the northern beaches.

“I acknowledge the constructive role played by the local State MP, Jacqui Scruby, and the local Federal MP, Sophie Scamps, in advocating for this project to be brought forward. This is an example of local representatives working together across the aisle for a good community outcome.

“The most important thing this announcement delivers in the certainty for the project to proceed. Transport for NSW will now be able to move ahead with critical planning work along this important corridor that has significant biodiversity, terrain and technical challenges to be addressed.”

Independent MP Jacqui Scruby confirmed that $250 million in funding has been allocated for Mona Vale Road West Upgrade in the 2025/26 NSW Budget. The $250 million commitment from the NSW Government is in addition to the $250 million in Federal Government funding secured by Mackellar MP Dr Sophie Scamps earlier this year.

Ms Scruby campaigned on securing funding to finish the road.  

“When I make a promise, I don’t stop until I deliver. Getting this funding and green light, demonstrates the power of independents, who deliver for their communities. Since being elected I’ve advocated continually for the NSW Government to fund this critical road, and I thank the government for recognising its importance.

“Finishing the upgrade is an issue that unites our community - it’s a safety risk, traffic bottleneck and a major route to the CBD and hospital, as well as a bushfire escape route.

Ms Scruby said she would now turn her focus to delivery: “This 4-lane road was promised by then Premier and Member for Pittwater Robert Askin in 1966 and I’m determined to make sure it's delivered. I’ll be holding the government to account to make sure this funding turns into real progress on the ground - people want to see action.

“There is a common myth that the MV West Upgrade was ‘shovel ready’ or half built. It’s not. There are approvals and pre-construction work that will take time, but people can trust I’ll continue my lobbying to keep things on track.” she said. 

Planning, design and environmental assessment work is expected to take about 2½ years, with construction slated to start in 2028. The construction will take around two years. A property acquisition process is set to begin early next year, details of which are yet to be released.

project notification dated April 2025 advises Transport for NSW are carrying out survey and utility investigation work along the Mona Vale Road corridor between McCarrs Creek Road, Terry Hills and Powderworks Road, Ingleside.

The investigation work will be carried out until 1 August 2025 during standard construction hours between 7am and 6pm, Monday to Friday and 8am to 6pm Saturdays, with some work being undertaken out of hours to maintain the safety of workers and community. Impacted community will be notified before work commences.

MORE HERE

 

2025 NSW Architecture Awards Winners: Babylon House (Avalon/Clareville) Morning Bay House (Morning Bay) Lagoon House (Curl Curl) win - Sydney Metro City Stations Project Awarded the NSW Architecture Medallion

Babylon House, atop the Avalon/Clareville verges, has won The John Verge Award for Interior Architecture and a Alterations and Additions Award for Casey Brown Architecture. Photographer: Zella Casey Brown

The very best in NSW architecture have been named in the Australian Institute of Architects’ 2025 NSW Architecture Awards. Revealed in a gala celebration at Sydney’s ILUMINA on Friday 20 June, the award winners offer a vivid snapshot of the ever-changing built environment across the state.

This year’s awarded projects speak to a profession stepping up to meet some of the biggest challenges facing our communities – climate resilience, housing equity, cultural recognition, and urban transformation – through work that is both imaginative and deeply grounded.

The 72 winners and commendations (listed below) were selected from a remarkable 284 entries. A comprehensive judging process determined the shortlisted entries and eventual winners. Chosen by a jury of industry experts from a shortlist of 137 projects, this year’s winners display a breadth of architectural thinking that reveals not just how we live today, but what our built environment could be tomorrow.

This year’s winning projects are united by a number of defining themes. Chief among them is a commitment to designing with care: care for Country; for communities; for heritage; and the environment. Examples of innovative adaptive reuse strategies prove that great design does not need to begin from scratch. New housing models explore how higher-density living can enhance, not diminish, quality of life. Sustainability considered from the very start of the design process places future resilience front and centre, not as a bonus but as a baseline. Another theme that emerged for the juries was the value of collaboration across disciplines and practices, with several awarded projects the result of partnerships that yielded richer, more complex outcomes.

Jury Chair of Chairs, Annabel Lahz LFRAIA, said, on the breadth of this year’s awards program:

“The NSW Chapter’s Architecture Awards program recognises more than design excellence—it promotes public awareness, encourages best practice, and sets benchmarks for quality, sustainability, and social impact. With 284 entries across 13 categories, judged by 37 jurors through 137 site visits, the scale of the program reflects its significance,” 

“Architecture today extends beyond buildings, encompassing diverse contexts and addressing complex social, environmental, and cultural challenges. This year’s awarded projects highlight the breadth of the profession and its positive impact on everyday life—from small-scale additions to major infrastructure, these works enrich the spaces we live, learn, work, and move through.” 

NSW Chapter President, Elizabeth Carpenter FRAIA, stated that:

“This year’s NSW Architecture Awards highlight a profession not only responding to urgent challenges, but leading with integrity, innovation and care. The awarded projects are powerful reminders that architecture is both an art and a responsibility—one that connects communities, strengthens cultural understanding, and shapes more sustainable and inclusive futures. Congratulations to every entrant, finalist and winner—you are part of a collective effort to build something better,” 

Casey Brown Architecture: Three Awards, including the John Verge Award for Interior Architecture, for Two Pittwater Splendours

Immersive celebrations of place, environment and nature embedded in honouring the old with careful and considered renewal marks the realisation of two projects completed by Casey Brown Architecture. 

Babylon House, perched on the Avalon-Clareville escarpment has won two awards: The John Verge Award for Interior Architecture and the award for Alterations and Additions. 

Across the estuary, Morning Bay House, has won an award in the Residential Architecture – Houses (New) category. 

Babylon House – Alterations and Additions Award 2025

Originally designed by Edwin Kingsberry in the early 1950s, who could not afford to build and sold the land to Leslie Erwin, a salesman for Colgate/Palmolive who wanted an impressive home as a gift to his young wife. Erwin’s son Jonathan (Jonty of the Bilgola Bop Band) said the architect Edwin Kingsberry originally owned the land and would sit listening to Wagner on a wind-up gramophone. The property was, then, named Götterdämmerung; from Wagner’s famous Ring Cycle opera. Architect Kingsberry's concept of “harmonious architecture”,  of a round central building with four radiating wings, no 90-degree angles, and magical reflecting ponds, connects this building to the land it sits on as the stone came from the same place for a 1953 build. Residents called it “the Castle”, with many of us trekking up that shallow set of stone steps atop Chisholm for the music and the parties.

Jonty - at right, singing - then with the 'Bopulators' and friends - interior of then named 'Götterdämmerun'. Photo: A J Guesdon, 2012

Exterior in 2011. L to R: (back) Paul Wheeler and Simon Abbott, (front) Ivor Simpson-Kennedy and Jonty Erwin. 

The 'Castle' was placed on the market in 2014 and passed into the hands of renowned Fiona Spence-Lyda and Morris Lyda, founders of Spence & Lyda, source of the best in furniture, lighting, textiles and objects in order to showcase creators and makers - for decades.

The Practice Team state on this project:

Babylon House—a name inspired by the mythical Tower of Babel—represents a unique and captivating building. Much like the unfinished mythical tower reaching toward the heavens, Babylon House climbs a rocky summit with a sense of grandeur. The new additions complete its journey, adding the final touches to a magical and whimsical place.

Babylon House sits on a ridge dividing Avalon and Pittwater, offering expansive vistas of the surrounding landscape. The design brief was deeply attuned to the “spirit of the place,” honouring both Kingsberry’s eccentric vision and the natural majesty of the environment.

Working closely with the client and builder, design decisions were tested rigorously to preserve the house’s whimsical character while enhancing its liveability. The result is a coherent integration of old and new, where the existing charm is enriched by thoughtful additions.

The charismatic and unconventional design is rooted, barring occasional deviations, in an exaggerated interpretation of the modernist period. Most notable are the living areas nestled beneath the 320 sqm kidney-shaped roof. No right angles. All with over 4-metre-high ceilings, expansive views, and a simple palette of wood and stone materiality. Mysterious external and internal corridors and passageways circuitously interconnect these spaces, leading unexpectedly to an expansive 80m² free-span dining room flowing onto an enormous, seemingly isolated patio with unimpaired Pacific Ocean and Pittwater views.

Babylon House - Alterations and Additions | Casey Brown Architecture | Photographer: Zella Casey Brown

MORE HERE

 

Minns Government to amend Wakehurst MP's  Northern Beaches Hospital (Voluntary Contract Termination) Bill 

Photo: Wakehurst MP Michael Regan, Federal MP for Mackellar Dr. Sophie Scamps and Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby attended a strike by Nurses and Midwives at Northern Beaches Hospital in NSW on March 24, 2025, as part of a broader series of rolling stoppages at Healthscope hospitals. The strike, led by the NSW Nurses and Midwives' Association (NSWNMA), aimed to pressure Healthscope, the private operator of the hospital, to address issues like staffing ratios, pay, and working conditions.  This was the second such action in recent months - another was held on November 5 2024

The Minns Labor Government announced on Friday June 20 it will introduce amendments to the Member for Wakehurst’s Private Member’s Bill this week, which would enable the NSW Government, if required, to terminate the Northern Beaches PPP contract as if a hospital operator default had occurred.

See May 2025 report: Wakehurst MP Michael Regan Tables the Northern Beaches Hospital (Voluntary Contract Termination) Bill 

This follows the appointment of receivers to the parent entities of Healthscope, which the NSW Government considers a default under the contract. 

'It is the preference of the NSW Government that agreement on the future control and operation of the Northern Beaches Hospital can be reached with Healthscope and its receivers.

However, the Government must be able to act decisively to avoid a prolonged dispute for members of the Northern Beaches community, staff working at the hospital and for NSW taxpayers.

If a mutual agreement is not reached, the proposed amendments would give the Health Minister the power to issue a termination notice to Healthscope. In addition, the Treasurer would have the power to ensure that compensation negotiations occur in a reasonable time frame and to appoint an independent person to determine compensation if agreement cannot be reached.' the Government said in a released statement

'The alternative to this approach is for the NSW Government to exercise its voluntary termination rights.  Under the PPP contract signed by the Liberal Party, this would see compensation to Healthscope’s receivers and lenders run into the hundreds of millions of dollars.'

The Minns Government passed legislation earlier this month banning any repeat of the failed Northern Beaches PPP model in acute care, ensuring that the Liberals’ privatisation of acute public hospitals never happens again. The Private Public Partnership Prohibition Bill made important amendments to the Health Services Act to prohibit governments from entering into a Northern Beaches-style arrangement to build or operate an acute public hospital.

''The private sector can and does play an important part in the delivery of public hospital services." NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said on June 5th

''However, the use of a Northern Beaches Hospital style public private partnership raises complex issues and risks. 

Independent MP Michael Regan said;

"This is a huge win for our community because it gets us one big step closer to getting the hospital back into public hands, where it belongs!''

Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby said she strongly supports this move.

“The Member for Wakehurst’s bill puts power back in the hands of the public, where it belongs,” said Ms Scruby.

“Residents deserve better than a hospital in receivership. We can’t sit by and endure prolonged negotiations that risk unfair costs and risk patient safety.

“The hospital has failed us in its operations and is now failing to meet the expectations of the community in facilitating it being taken into public hands. Mr Regan’s legislation and the Government’s amendments clean up failings of the original deed negotiated by the former Liberal government.”

MORE HERE

Week Four June 2025 (June 16 - 22):

Front Page

2025 NSW Architecture Awards WinnersBabylon House (Avalon/Clareville) Morning Bay House (Morning Bay) Lagoon House (Curl Curl) win - Sydney Metro City Stations Project Awarded the NSW Architecture Medallion

Pictures Cremorne Point Walk: June 2025 by Joe Mills

NSW Budget green lights congestion busting Mona Vale Road West upgrade - Scruby delivers on Election Promise: Secures Funding 

Minns Government to amend Wakehurst MP's Northern Beaches Hospital (Voluntary Contract Termination) Bill 

Delay in New Home Care Packages Endangers Older Australians: Independent MP's  

Griffin Calls for a Crack Down on Tobacco Shops: Petition + Scruby Wants DA requirement + Parliamentary Inquiry into Illegal Tobacco Now Open for submissions 

E-Bike Safety Education Pop-up at Avalon Beach 

Climate Change Authority ReportInvest in climate adaptation now to save billions a year in recovery costs - Steggall's Climate Resilience Plan Launched

From the Council Chamber: June 17, 2025 by Miranda Korzy

Rise Festival Is Firing Up Manly's Winter - Runs Until June 29

Aquatics New 'Google Maps for the sea' to cut shipping industry’s CO2 emissions: UNSW Research

Park Bench Philosophers Sea ice plays important role in variability of carbon uptake by Southern Ocean: New Study

Environment Eco Schools Grants for 2025, Engineers make a big splash turning water treatment sludge into sustainable concrete, University of Sydney Sustainability researcher wins $1.5m award for work tackling the climate crisis, Saving species starts at home: how you can help Australia’s 1,000 threatened invertebrates, Chemical CleanOut: June 28-29 at Mona Vale Beach, Surfrider Foundation: June 22 Surf Swap, Whale Census Day 2025: June 29, Have your say on council's climate change policy, Council's Proposed Amendments to Development Control Plans (DCPs) For Low and Mid-Rise Housing: Have Your Say, Land Management Code amendments: have your say, As the federal government fumbles on nature law reform the states are forging ahead, West Australian miners flexed their muscle to block a federal EPA last year. Will it be different this time?, Australia could become the world’s first net-zero exporter of fossil fuels – here’s how, ‘Guerrilla rewilding’ aims for DIY conservation – but it may do more harm than good, Seabed mining is becoming an environmental flashpoint, Migrating bogong moths use the stars and Earth’s magnetic field to find ancestral summer caves each year, Koalas on the brink: Precision DNA test offers a lifeline to Australia’s icons, Jaws at 50: how a single movie changed our perception of white sharks forever, Sharks come in many different shapes and sizes. But they all follow a centuries-old mathematical rule, A solar panel recycling scheme would help reduce waste but please repair and reuse first, A weird group of boronias puzzled botanists for decades. Now we’ve solved the pollination mystery, The historic High Seas Treaty is almost reality. Here’s what it would mean for ocean conservation, Ancient termite poo reveals 120 million-year-old secrets of Australia’s polar forests, Colonisation cleared 95% of these woodlands – Indigenous cultural burning is bringing it back, Brazil’s ‘bill of devastation’ pushes Amazon towards tipping point, Wetland restoration is seen as sunk cost – but new research shows why it should be considered an investment, Trade in a mythical fish is threatening real species of rays that are rare and at risk, Declining soil health is a global concern – here’s how AI could help, Weed of the Week: Morning Glory - please get it out of your garden, ‘1080 pest management’, Volunteers for Barrenjoey Lighthouse Tours needed, Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 Recycling Batteries: at Mona Vale + Avalon Beach, Reporting Dogs Offleash - Dog Attacks to Council, Plastic Bread Ties For Wheelchairs, Stay Safe From Mosquitoes, Mountain Bike Incidents On Public Land, Report fox sightings, Marine wildlife rescue group 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, Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations in Pittwater, Ringtail Posses, Pittwater Reserves: histories + Walks, Birds, +

Inbox News ‘I was in a semi-breaking-down sort of place’: new study sheds light on the emotional toll for emergency volunteers, Optus agrees to $100m penalty, subject to court approval, for unconscionable conduct, National Australia Bank pays $751,200 in penalties for alleged breaches of Consumer Data Right Rules, Warning issued after ACCC phone numbers spoofed by scammers, Cape York deserves World Heritage status – and Queensland may need it to become a global leader in tourism, Death cap mushroom detections prompt health warning: NSW Health, When new dads struggle their kids’ health can suffer; Tackling mental distress early can help, Need to see a specialist? You might have to choose between high costs and a long wait; Here’s what needs to change, AMA calls for urgent Medicare rebate reforms to meet rising healthcare costs, Drones to enhance NSW Ambulance Aeromedical and Special Operations, New research shows Australians see influencers as major sources of misinformation, What is ‘cognitive shuffling’ and does it really help you get to sleep? Two sleep scientists explain, NSW Government announces infrastructure package to support Western Sydney Aerotropolis growth, Dopamine can make it hard to put down our phone or abandon the online shopping cart; Here’s why, Assessment in the age of AI – unis must do more than tell students what not to do, Free Medicare chronic wound care scheme starts, NSW SES Warringah / Pittwater Unit: Workshops for Women 2025, cost of living relief for over 2.4 million recipients from 1 July, Government action needed to protect older Australians: COTA, History of Narrabeen: U3A Speaker, First-of-its-kind test can predict dementia up to nine years before diagnosis, AvPals 25th Year: Term Two Newport Sessions, Your brain has a hidden beat — and smarter minds sync to it, Record high: Study finds growing cannabis use among older US adults, Judy Davis gives a singularly vivid performance in The Spare Room – but the play falls short, Alzheimer’s: bacteria that causes stomach ulcers may protect the brain; new research indicates, Ice Age shelter high up in the Blue Mountains reveals Aboriginal heritage from 20,000 years ago, Jaws at 50: how two musical notes terrified an entire generation, Eco Schools Grants for 2025, Talent runs deep for school swimmers, Australia's First Steamers, cktown tests auto skills on national stage, Opportunities: Surfrider Foundation June 2025 Surf Swap + Kay Cottee Women's Development Regatta + The 2025 CWAS "David Malin Awards" + More places available in innovative jobs program for women + 2025 Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards entries are now open + Band Comp. at Palmy, Financial help for young people, School Leavers Support, Word Of The Week: Cairngorm, A 3-tonne, $1.5 billion satellite to watch Earth’s every move is set to launch this week, How pterosaurs learned to fly: scientists have been looking in the wrong place to solve this mystery, Could trees know when the summer solstice is?, The critical response to Miley Cyrus’s Something Beautiful exposes pop’s gender double standards, Jaws at 50: how two musical notes terrified an entire generation, Artist Eric Smith won 3 Archibalds, then vanished. A new show reveals his unseen works, How pterosaurs can inspire aircraft design, China’s Everest obsession: following Mallory’s footsteps a century on, I saw how tourism and climate change are transforming the mountain, Jaws at 50: a cinematic masterpiece – and an incredible piece of propaganda

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Week Three June 2025 (June 10 - 15):

Front Page

Profile:  Monika's Doggie Rescue: In need of Good People with Great homes for Pets - Foster Carers 

History:  Old Fashioned Film Evening at Avalon Beach Historical Society's June 2025 Meeting by Roger Sayers OAM

Aquatics Sea Waters off NSW retaining sustained above average heat: BOM States May 2025 Sea Surface Temperatures are highest on record + ‘Like an underwater bushfire’: SA’s marine algal bloom is still killing almost everything in its path + As Antarctic sea ice shrinks, iconic emperor penguins are in more peril than we thought

Northern Beaches Council Wins Award for Partnerships-Collaborations in Rethink-reduce-reuse Program  -  North Sydney Council Recognised for Innovative Citizenship Ceremonies

Warriewood Community Centre Build: June 2025 Update photos by Joe Mills

Warriewood resident to receive Sport NSW Distinguished Long Service Honour - Collaroy Tennis Club Finalist in Inclusion Achievement of the Year Award

School Excursion to the Surf Club by Year 2 Maria Regina Primary School during the Club's 100th Anniversary Year - Encouraging Future Surf Lifesavers & Promoting Surf Safety + June Reflections by Rogers Sayers OAM, ABSLSC Life Member

Pictures Cremorne Point Walk: June 2025 by Joe Mills

Park Bench Philosophers ON Accelerate 9 showcases national innovation potential in deep tech: CSIRO

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Week Two June 2025 (June 2 - 9): King's Birthday Honours Edition

Front Page

Profile: King's Birthday 2025 Honours List:  Michael Bate - AM, Peter Meldrum Biscoe KC - AM, Richard Penn - AM, Teresa Plane - AM, Andrew Warden - AM, Robert (Bob) Connors - OAM, Dean Gardiner - OAM, Kim Mukuka - OAM, Ray Petersen OAM, Juris Turmanis - OAM, Michael Richer - ASM, Commissioner Alex Barrell - ESM, Douglas Lucas - ESM, Lance Miller - ESM  

History:   WEA's Newport Summer School – for Workers, WANS + Future U.S., B.P.F. Wives: Local Insights for The 80th Commemoration of VP Day in 2025 

Council announces single service for lifeguards across the Peninsula

VW State Classic 2025: Local Surfers among Winners in NSW State Surfing Titles + Results

Rockfisher Drowns at North Head

Aquatics NSW Government announces Beachwatch program to continue under current model for another two years

Marine Rescue NSW commends caution as missions drop in May 2025

Operation Snow Safe 2025 launches For opening of ski season: NSW Police

High Schools Get Hooked on New Fishing Program

North Narrabeen in 1911 - Panoramas taken for West's Lakeside Estate

Australia Post prioritises Postie safety with introduction of new dog attack deterrent

Park Bench Philosophers Snow Season 2025: Local Connections with the Sport of Skiing beginnings in Charles Kerry, Percy Hunter and Herbert Schlink

Pictures Long Reef Sunrise Headland Walk by Joe Mills

DIY Ideas 11 Ways to keep your home warm, safe and save money this Winter

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Week Five May 2025 - Week One June 2025 (May 26 - June 1): Issue 643

Front Page

Profile: A Celebration of Jack McCoy

History: Avalon Beach Camping Ground Gave a Lot of Legends to the Pittwater Community

2025 Environment Art & Design Prize Finalists announced

Pictures A Few Waves for Jack: Little, South + North Av. 

Receivers appointed to Healthscope parent companies: short-term partial rent deferral agreement - EOI received

World Oceans Day 2025 at Bongin Bongin Bay Mona Vale: The Janice Mason Memorial Swim + Family-Friendly Activities - Sunday June 8, from 8am

Aquatics RPAYC's Gwen Slade Regatta 2025 + Upcoming Inaugural Kay Cottee Women's Development Regatta - June 29

Avalon Computer Pals turns 25

Local photographer reveals a new wave perspective on South Curl Curl Rockpool in new exhibition 'Immersed' at Manly Library

Park Bench Philosophers Labor approves Woodside's North West Shelf extension: 'a prelude to approval for Woodside's Browse Project carbon bomb' + Green light for gas: North West Shelf gas plant cleared to run until 2070 + How the North West Shelf expansion risks further damage to Murujuga’s 50,000-year-old rock art

Job Scam Fusion Cell disrupts fake job networks targeting Australians: ScamWatch information on what to look for in Jobs and employment scams

Feedback Invited on Council's Climate Change Policy + Changes to Development Control Plans  (for Manly-Warringah-Pittwater) - closes June 22

Narrabeen's RSL ANZAC Village Renewal Project: Feedback Invited (May to June 2025) - History Insights Sought

Profile of the Week Bruce Goold August 12 1948 – June 16, 2025

Adored son of Wilfred and Phyllis, beloved husband of Kate (Dec.), treasured father to Nancy. 

Our community lost one of its favourite sons on Monday June 16. A lanky Puck natured icon of the Barrenjoey peninsula, Bruce Goold refined Australian Art through his own development and expanded its 21st century perimeters. 

Renowned for bold graphic prints using linocuts and woodblock techniques, Bruce Goold’s instantly recognisable style established him as one of the most influential and celebrated artists in Australia. Goold was famous for his use of woodcut and lino techniques, which drew on the skill of hand cutting designs, using the positive and negative spaces to create beds for ink application. Once printed the designs come to life, with depth and texture.

For Bruce, Art is not just for the walls, it can be worn, and then it is not just about the style and cut of the cloth, it is about what the printed threads bring together; the colours, the subject, and with so many Australian birds, wildflowers, his designs were unapologetic celebrations of here and a call to immerse yourself in living Art.

There are not many locals who do not have a t-shirt, a cushion, a curtain, a Mambo shirt in his favoured themes of marine, flora and fauna, the tropical and those he called 'curiosities' - a kind of Edward Lear nonsense poem, only Bruce's acutely epitomised version.

Bruce was a joy-maker, who called all to allow themselves to be immersed. His smile, his dancing, were about sharing we are all living in a vision, knit currents of air, earth and water, and in these threads and their verses we too are all connected too to the Creative in all of us. 


    The first wharf built at Church Point was the result of those living here in the 1880's calling for this facility to provide safe access for children to the school held during weekdays at the Chapel which gave Church Point its current name. 

    On June 1st 1883, the Mayor of St Leonards, the District where so many births in Pittwater are recorded during the 1800’s, prevailed on the then Colonial Secretary of the colony for a wharf. The response is recorded:

    DEPUTATIONS. THE NARRABEEN-ROAD.
    A deputation, consisting of the Mayor of St Leonards, Dr Tibbit's, and several other gentlemen, waited upon the Hon. Alexander Stuart, Colonial Secretary, yesterday, to request that the Narrabeen-road from Manly to Pittwater be put in a proper state of repair, and that a jetty be constructed on Church Point at Bayview, Newport. The road, it was represented, is now in a very bad condition, and if it were put into proper order it would open up one of the most beautiful districts in the colony. The jetty was required for the benefit of children going to school and persons attending church. The deputation also asked for a bathing place...
     DEPUTATIONS. THE NARRABEEN-ROAD. (1883, June 2). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 9. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13536041

    Dr. Tibbits of Petersham, a medical practitioner, is the landholder of 40 acres, part of Portion 25 and formerly a section of the William Oliver and grant, on the west side of the ‘church acre’ on which the chapel has been built.

    Over a year later a Tender was advertised and it was subsequently announced a person being accepted for the work, Newport's William Boulton. This Issue a few insights into the 140+ years of one of Pittwater's oldest wharves.

     

    Winter in pittwater

    North Narrabeen headland and view north into Turimetta Beach. Photo: Joe Mills
    Dawn surf, North Narrabeen. Photo: Joe Mills
    Turimetta rocks, looking south towards North Narrabeen. Photo: Joe Mills

    Pittwater Online News is Published Every Sunday Morning

     

    Week Three June 2025 (June 10 - 15)

    Northern Beaches Council Wins Award for Partnerships-Collaborations in Rethink-reduce-reuse Program  -  North Sydney Council Recognised for Innovative Citizenship Ceremonies

    Northern Beaches Council has won the Partnerships and Collaboration award at the 2025 NSW Local Government Excellence Awards.

    This award recognises partnerships with organisations, government and/or other councils that provides new or improved services, enhances physical or social infrastructure and makes a significant contribution to the LGA.

    In the LGA Population Over 150,000 Northern Beaches Council was the winner for its Reuse and Recycling Event Series.

    The awards are hosted by Local Government Professionals Australia NSW and celebrate outstanding achievements within NSW local government.

    In March 2024 Council endorsed the Waste and Circular Economy Strategy 2040 - Rethink. Reduce. Reuse sending a strong message that the LGA will be shifting to a circular approach to waste management aimed at retaining the value of resources for as long as possible in order to benefit the environment, local business, and residents.

    This strategy represents a new approach to waste management, emphasising the importance for us all to rethink our actions to reduce waste via reuse, repair and recycling which are the key pillars of our environmental agenda.

    Currently waste collection is the largest service Council provides to the community, including up to 11 million bin collections each year.

    ''With this new strategy, we’re aiming to reduce landfill waste, increase recycling rates, and support our community to turn our waste into a valuable resource.'' the council stated last year

    The new strategy focuses on 5 directions, each with supporting actions and include; eliminating waste, easy to use waste service, tackling priority waste, green and clean environment and Council leading the way.

    Some of the key directions and targets include:
    • pilot a circular economy hub for repairing and reusing household items, including working with charities, community groups and other interested groups
    • help the community to reduce household waste by 10% by 2030 and by 20% by 2040
    • halve the amount of household food waste sent to landfill by 2030, with a phased approach to food waste collection
    • implement regular and accessible collections of electronic waste, textiles and household chemicals by 2025
    • provide local drop-offs or kerbside collections for the most common household plastics where there are reliable markets for the recycled products
    • advocate for the phase out of single use unrecyclable plastics
    The strategy was informed by extensive research and consultation over a 12-month period with the local community, external stakeholders, expert consultants, the Environment Strategic Reference Group and Council staff.

    With 179 submissions received from the community when it was exhibited to the public in October 2023, Council states there was overwhelming support for the strategy.

    The strategy includes an action plan with key initiatives to commence, or be implemented, over the next five years.  

    Council states it will work closely with the community to rethink, reduce and reuse more under the strategy.

    The next RRR event will happen on July 5 2025 at Aquatic Reserve carpark, 1 Aquatic Drive, Frenchs Forest.

    The Council is partnering with Anglicare, Dandelion Support Network, Revolve Recycling, Kimbriki Resource Recovery Centre and The Sydney Library of Things for this event. 

    You can drive and drop off your old and unwanted items for reuse and recycling included in the list below.
    • Adult clothing and accessories; Manchester (new or quality used); Hygiene items (New only); small homeware items
    • Essential nursery items and clothing for babies and children
    • Bikes, scooters and E-Bikes
    • Cardboard
    • Small metal items
    • Plastic plant pots
    • Raw timber, flat pack furniture and raw pallets
    • Plastic storage containers with lids (34L and above), hand tools
    Council asks that you please make sure you read the detailed list of items accepted and not accepted for each category. 

    You are also asked to:
    • Separate your items into categories above before you arrive. 
    • Pack them into your boot or rear of your vehicle so they can be safely removed by staff.
    • Drop and drive to the event, and stay in your car. When you arrive at the event our collection staff will unpack your vehicle to get you on your way faster.

    More chances to Rethink-Reuse-Recycle

    Further RRR events, including Avalon Car Boot Sales (next is Saturday June 21), the Surf Swap and Repair Market at Narrabeen (June 22), a Chemical Clean Out at Mona Vale Beach (June 28-29) or even getting your hands amongst it at the next  Composting & Worms Workshop at Kimbriki at Ingleside (also Saturday June 28) are just some of he ways you can be part of the RRR initiative and part of the circular economy.

    You can get involved or keep up-to-date with all RRR events here.

    The RRR program had been preceded by a Reuse and Recycling Map in 2021. 

    This resource helps residents to find your nearest clothing bin, retail op shop, or other outlet that accepts used goods for free - including toys, bikes, sporting equipment, eye glasses, furniture and more for reuse and recycling.

    Visit the Reuse and Recycling Map webpage to find out more.

     

    Sea Waters off NSW retaining sustained above average heat: BOM States May 2025 Sea Surface Temperatures are highest on record + ‘Like an underwater bushfire’: SA’s marine algal bloom is still killing almost everything in its path


    Weedy Seadragon (Phyllopteryx taeniolatus), at South Palmy July 8th 2022. Photo: Adriaan van der Wallen - there is a colony of these off Barrenjoey at a dive site called 'Weedy Seadragon'

    Sea surface temperatures (SSTs) in the southern hemisphere, including areas around Australia, are expected to be warmer than average during the Winter of 2025. The Bureau of Meteorology indicates that day and night temperatures are likely to be above average across Australia for this time of the year. 

    The BOM reports that areas off the south-west Australian coastline may be more than 3°C warmer than average. 

    The warm ocean temperatures surrounding Australia are a key contributor to the ongoing abnormal heat and are expected to continue until at least mid-Spring. 

    The additional heat in the ocean contributes to warming the air above the surface, leading to warmer winds and influencing the local environment. 

    The BOM states the sea surface temperatures (SSTs) in the Australian region during May 2025 were +0.62 °C above the 1991–2020 average; the warmest May on record since observations began in 1900. Since July 2024, SSTs have been the warmest or second warmest on record for each respective month. 

    The SST analysis for the week ending 8 June 2025 shows warmer than average waters around most of the Australian coastline, except for parts of the north. Large parts of the coastline are up to 2 °C warmer than average, with small patches off the south-west Australian coastline more than 3 °C warmer than average.

    BOM: Sea surface temperature forecast maps update June 11 2025

    BOM: NSW sea temperature update June 12 2025:

    Global SSTs remain substantially above average. Monthly averaged SSTs in 2025 have been the second warmest on record for each respective month, second only to temperatures recorded in 2024.

    The CSIRO and the Australian Bureau of Meteorology State of the Climate Report 2024, released every two years, found Australia’s weather and climate has continued to change, with an increase in extreme heat events, longer fire seasons, more intense heavy rainfall, and sea level rise.  

    The report recorded our oceans have heated up by 1.08°C on average since 1900. In fact, Australia’s oceans are warming faster than the global average. But the oceans off south-east Australia and the Tasman Sea are a particular hotspot and are now warming at twice the global average.

    The report records the average annual carbon content embedded in Australia’s fossil fuel exports between 2010 and 2019 (1,055 megatonnes) was more than double the average annual national carbon emissions over the same period (455 Mt). However, the emissions of these carbon exports are accounted in the countries where the fossil fuels are used, so Australia is heating up the planet much more than the report can record.

    CSIRO Research Manager, Dr Jaci Brown, said in 2024, when the report was released, warming of the ocean has contributed to longer and more frequent marine heatwaves, with the highest average sea surface temperature on record occurring in 2022.  

    "The East Australian Current is shifting further south because of changes to the winds and the winds change because of changes to the surface temperature of the ocean," Dr Brown explained

    "There's these feedbacks between the atmosphere and the ocean as they talk to each other. As one thing changes, it changes something in the other one which feeds back to the atmosphere."

    “Increases in temperature have contributed to significant impacts on marine habitats, species and ecosystem health, such as the most recent mass coral bleaching event on the Great Barrier Reef this year,” Dr Brown said. 

    Impacts on species and habitats

    One recurring change witnessed the past several years has been the deaths of thousands birds off our coasts through starvation - birds that rely on zooplankton for food.  Zooplankton can survive in warm waters, however, they thrive in cooler waters. Marine heatwaves have been causing shifts in where and when zooplankton occur, and how large they grow.

    See: Shearwaters washing up on local beaches for third year in a row: Mass mortalities of Starving Birds attributed to Australia's Lose-Lose Policy on the Australian Environment - October 2024

    Another is local seagrasses - the nurseries for marine life in estuaries.

    MORE HERE

     

    Warriewood Community Centre Build: June 2025 Update

    Photos by Joe Mills, taken Wednesday June 11, 2025

    Council states Construction of the new Warriewood Community Centre is progressing well. Despite some recent weather delays, roofing is nearing completion, and work on external cladding, window framing and glazing is underway. Once the building is weather-tight, internal services and fitout will ramp up.

    Below-ground services and landscaping preparation are continuing. The site office will soon be relocated to allow works on the western carpark to commence. We will ensure local residents and key stakeholders are informed in advance of any temporary access changes or traffic impacts associated with these works.

    The project remains on track for completion in late 2025, subject to unforeseen delays.

    The new multi-use community centre is being built on the existing site of the Nelson Heather Centre on the corner of Jacksons Road and Pittwater Road.

    The centre will be an attractive, modern, and resilient building with the capacity to switch to an Emergency and Recovery Centre during a period of community crisis.

    Features of the new centre will include:

    • flexible multi-purpose halls to accommodate a variety of recreational, cultural and community activities
    • two versatile meeting rooms suitable for workshops, programs and small events
    • a dedicated community space designed to be safe, inclusive and accessible for all
    • generous covered outdoor areas overlooking landscaped gardens
    • modern, fully accessible amenities
    • multiple adaptable kitchen facilities to support events and group activities.

    The design also incorporates best-practice sustainability principles and new infrastructure to meet the growing community.

    In addition to the building works, Council are progressing the design of a new shared pathway connecting the centre to the nearby B-Line bus stop. Planned upgrades to Boondah Road will further enhance safety and accessibility, making it easier for people to walk and cycle throughout the area.

    The new community centre will provide a total of 5 halls and two meeting rooms with ancillary facilities and will be served by a total of 78 car parking spaces, 5 of which are allocated as accessible parking spaces.

    MORE HERE

    Week Three June 2025 (June 10 - 15): 

    Aquatics Sea Waters off NSW retaining sustained above average heat: BOM States May 2025 Sea Surface Temperatures are highest on record + ‘Like an underwater bushfire’: SA’s marine algal bloom is still killing almost everything in its path + As Antarctic sea ice shrinks, iconic emperor penguins are in more peril than we thought

    Northern Beaches Council Wins Award for Partnerships-Collaborations in Rethink-reduce-reuse Program  -  North Sydney Council Recognised for Innovative Citizenship Ceremonies

    Warriewood Community Centre Build: June 2025 Update photos by Joe Mills

    Warriewood resident to receive Sport NSW Distinguished Long Service Honour - Collaroy Tennis Club Finalist in Inclusion Achievement of the Year Award

    School Excursion to the Surf Club by Year 2 Maria Regina Primary School during the Club's 100th Anniversary Year - Encouraging Future Surf Lifesavers & Promoting Surf Safety + June Reflections by Rogers Sayers OAM, ABSLSC Life Member

    Pictures Cremorne Point Walk: June 2025 by Joe Mills

    Park Bench Philosophers ON Accelerate 9 showcases national innovation potential in deep tech: CSIRO

    Inbox News First national stocktake of Australia's food system reveals hidden costs and big opportunities: CSIRO, Australia’s whooping cough surge is not over – and it doesn’t just affect babies, hMPV is likely one of the viruses making us sick this winter; Here’s what to know about human meta-pneumovirus, Why won’t my cough go away?, Measles cases are surging globally; Should children be vaccinated earlier?, What is cricket’s World Test Championship and how did Australia qualify for the final?, 2-million-year-old pitted teeth from our ancient relatives reveal secrets about human evolution, One year ago Australia scrapped a key equity in STEM program; Where are we now?, Do the quick and easy bowel screening test that could save your life, PM: Secretary appointments, Albanese announces first woman Treasury secretary and a ‘roundtable’ on boosting productivity, In Trump’s America the shooting of a journalist is not a one-off; Press freedom itself is under attack, The Racial Discrimination Act at 50: the bumpy, years-long journey to Australia’s first human rights laws, NSW residents urged to get vaccinated as flu levels rise, One for Mum, Congratulations Shannon!, Narrabeen Youth Club: Call for old photos, A new National Immunisation Strategy for a healthier Australia, History of Narrabeen: U3A Speaker, 2026 Australian of the Year Nominations now open, E-learning now available for the new Aged Care Act, AvPals 25th Year: Term Two Newport Sessions, Home Equity Release May Increase Demand for Long-Term Care Insurance, It took more than a century but women are taking charge of Australia’s economy – here’s why it matters, How visionary Beach Boys songwriter Brian Wilson changed music – and my life, Sunday Too Far Away at 50: how a story about Aussie shearers launched a local film industry, Oldest known human fingerprint discovered on ancient Neanderthal artwork – with help from Spain’s forensic police, Public school students survey on learning + wellbeing, June 1949: Avalon Beach full of Jam Melons, Regional champion from Blacktown tests auto skills on national stage, Opportunities: Surfrider Foundation June 2025 Surf Swap + Kay Cottee Women's Development Regatta + The 2025 CWAS "David Malin Awards" + More places available in innovative jobs program for women + 2025 Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards entries are now open + Band Comp. at Palmy, Financial help for young people, School Leavers Support, Word Of The Week: noodle, Why are sunsets so pretty in winter? There’s a simple explanation, How visionary Beach Boys songwriter Brian Wilson changed music – and my life, How was the wheel invented? Computer simulations reveal the unlikely birth of a world-changing technology nearly 6,000 years ago, Esa at 50: how the space agency helped keep Europe at the frontiers of science, The AI hype is just like the blockchain frenzy – here’s what happens when the hype dies, Those ‘what I eat in a day’ TikTok videos aren’t helpful. They might even be harmful, Were the first kings of Poland actually from Scotland? New DNA evidence unsettles a nation’s founding myth, For the first time, fossil stomach contents of a sauropod dinosaur reveal what they really ate, Sunday Too Far Away at 50: how a story about Aussie shearers launched a local film industry, Friday essay: foggy, flirty and too much – Jane Austen’s menopausal women solicit compassion while making us laugh

    Environment Clever Cockatoos learning to drink from public water fountains, Snowy Hydro to pay $400,000 to protect endangered frog, Welcoming winter gardens: BirdLife Australia, Discover Sydney’s blooming spectacular Muogamarra, House Mice are now killing adult Wandering Albatrosses on Marion Island – not just their chicks, 2025 World Albatross Day: 19 June, Chemical CleanOut: June 28-29 at Mona Vale Beach, Surfrider Foundation: June 22 Surf Swap, Whale Census Day 2025: June 29, Water exemptions made to speed up new homes, Have your say on council's climate change policy, Council's Draft Land Dealings Policy: Have your Say, Council's Proposed Amendments to Development Control Plans (DCPs) For Low and Mid-Rise Housing: Have Your Say, Weed of the Week: Morning Glory - please get it out of your garden, First Strategy to protect NSW heritage released: have your say, WIRES 2025 Grants Applications Now Open, First NSW Waste and Circular Infrastructure Plan released, Solar for apartment residents: Funding, The Snowy Owls of Logan Airport, As Antarctic sea ice shrinks iconic emperor penguins are in more peril than we thought, ‘Like an underwater bushfire’: SA’s marine algal bloom is still killing almost everything in its path, As livestock numbers grow, wild animal populations plummet. Giving all creatures a better future will take a major rethink, 9 myths about electric vehicles have taken hold. A new study shows how many people fall for them, Australia’s government is pledging better protection for our vulnerable seas – but will it work?, Cheating by car makers, tampering by owners: crucial car pollution control is being sabotaged, A reversal in US climate policy will send renewables investors packing – and Australia can reap the benefits, In most mammals, one gene determines sex; But 100 million years ago platypuses and echidnas went their own way, ‘Find your path’ – NSW Great Walks put on the map, Mussel power: how an offshore shellfish farm is boosting marine life, Jacaranda, black locust and London plane: common street trees show surprising resilience to growing heat in Australia, Extreme weather could send milk prices soaring, deepening challenges for the dairy industry, A 10-fold increase in rocket launches would start harming the ozone layer – new research, ‘1080 pest management’, Volunteers for Barrenjoey Lighthouse Tours needed, Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 Recycling Batteries: at Mona Vale + Avalon Beach, Reporting Dogs Offleash - Dog Attacks to Council, Plastic Bread Ties For Wheelchairs, Stay Safe From Mosquitoes, Mountain Bike Incidents On Public Land, Report fox sightings, Marine wildlife rescue group 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, Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations in Pittwater, Ringtail Posses, Pittwater Reserves: histories + Walks, Birds, + 

    _________________________

    Week Two June 2025 (June 2 - 9): King's Birthday Honours Edition

    Profile: King's Birthday 2025 Honours List:  Michael Bate - AM, Peter Meldrum Biscoe KC - AM, Richard Penn - AM, Teresa Plane - AM, Andrew Warden - AM, Robert (Bob) Connors - OAM, Dean Gardiner - OAM, Kim Mukuka - OAM, Ray Petersen OAM, Juris Turmanis - OAM, Michael Richer - ASM, Commissioner Alex Barrell - ESM, Douglas Lucas - ESM, Lance Miller - ESM  

    History:   WEA's Newport Summer School – for Workers, WANS + Future U.S., B.P.F. Wives: Local Insights for The 80th Commemoration of VP Day in 2025 

    Council announces single service for lifeguards across the Peninsula

    VW State Classic 2025: Local Surfers among Winners in NSW State Surfing Titles + Results

    Rockfisher Drowns at North Head

    Aquatics NSW Government announces Beachwatch program to continue under current model for another two years

    Marine Rescue NSW commends caution as missions drop in May 2025

    Operation Snow Safe 2025 launches For opening of ski season: NSW Police

    High Schools Get Hooked on New Fishing Program

    North Narrabeen in 1911 - Panoramas taken for West's Lakeside Estate

    Australia Post prioritises Postie safety with introduction of new dog attack deterrent

    Park Bench Philosophers Snow Season 2025: Local Connections with the Sport of Skiing beginnings in Charles Kerry, Percy Hunter and Herbert Schlink

    Pictures Long Reef Sunrise Headland Walk by Joe Mills

    DIY Ideas 11 Ways to keep your home warm, safe and save money this Winter

    _________________________

    Week Five May 2025 - Week One June 2025 (May 26 - June 1): Issue 643

    Profile: A Celebration of Jack McCoy

    History: Avalon Beach Camping Ground Gave a Lot of Legends to the Pittwater Community

    2025 Environment Art & Design Prize Finalists announced

    Pictures A Few Waves for Jack: Little, South + North Av. 

    Receivers appointed to Healthscope parent companies: short-term partial rent deferral agreement - EOI received

    World Oceans Day 2025 at Bongin Bongin Bay Mona Vale: The Janice Mason Memorial Swim + Family-Friendly Activities - Sunday June 8, from 8am

    Aquatics RPAYC's Gwen Slade Regatta 2025 + Upcoming Inaugural Kay Cottee Women's Development Regatta - June 29

    Avalon Computer Pals turns 25

    Local photographer reveals a new wave perspective on South Curl Curl Rockpool in new exhibition 'Immersed' at Manly Library

    Park Bench Philosophers Labor approves Woodside's North West Shelf extension: 'a prelude to approval for Woodside's Browse Project carbon bomb' + Green light for gas: North West Shelf gas plant cleared to run until 2070 + How the North West Shelf expansion risks further damage to Murujuga’s 50,000-year-old rock art

    Job Scam Fusion Cell disrupts fake job networks targeting Australians: ScamWatch information on what to look for in Jobs and employment scams

    Feedback Invited on Council's Climate Change Policy + Changes to Development Control Plans  (for Manly-Warringah-Pittwater) - closes June 22

    Narrabeen's RSL ANZAC Village Renewal Project: Feedback Invited (May to June 2025) - History Insights Sought

    Profile of the Week Monika's Doggie Rescue: In need of Good People with Great homes for Pets - Foster Carers 

    Monika's Doggie Rescue
    2 Cowan Road, Ingleside

    www.DoggieRescue.com
    www.facebook.com/doggierescue
    www.twitter.com/monikadogrescue
    www.instagram.com/monikadogrescue/

    Although here are a variety of reasons people may give up a beloved pet, just as they were after Covid re-openings, pet re-homing facilities across Australia are currently full as owners surrender dogs and cats, this time stating they do so due to the cost-of-living impacts.

    Across Sydney there has been an uptick in dogs aged just 12 months, not just older dogs whose owners may have passed away, who are being dumped. Although some flinch or avoid being touched by people, indicating they have been abused, owners being unaware how much a pet costs has become the primary reason there are a lot of homeless dogs. 

    According to the Australian Veterinary Association, the average dog owner spends more than $25,000 caring for their canine companion. Cat owners could spend $21,000 on average. The RSPCA states within the first year of dog or cat ownership, people could face up to $3,500 of expenses on vaccinations, vet visits, food, de-sexing, grooming, bedding, toys and treats.

    This is also causing a massive slow-down on rehoming animals - and for shelters being able to take on new dogs and cats that need a home. Numerous full shelters are reporting a wait-list of people who want to surrender their dog.

    RSPCA national data shows around 81,000 pets were surrendered in the 2023/2024 financial year, with only 27,000 finding new homes.

    However, in Pittwater, for over a quarter of a century, Monika's Doggie Rescue has sought to find the homes for these pets. 

    Monika's DoggieRescue is a registered charity that believes in saving and re-homing as many pets as they can from the council pounds. For many years Monika Biernacki and a group of volunteers have been rescuing pets from death row and successfully re-homing them with permanent and loving owners.

    Their motto at present is 'don't shop - adopt'.

       

      Winter in pittwater

      Middle Creek Reserve View. Photo: Joe Mills.
      Warriewood Beach Surf Club at Sunrise. Photo: Joe Mills
      Turimetta Beach Sunrise. Photo: Joe Mills

      Week Two June 2025 (June 2 - 9): King's Birthday Honours Edition

      June 1 - 30, 2025: Issue 643

       

      The King's Birthday 2025 Honours List 

      Commissioner Barrell at the Marine Rescue Broken Bay Commissioning of their new Base building at Bayview on Saturday March 4 2023. Photo: A J Guesdon

      Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, announced the King’s Birthday 2025 Honours list on Monday 9 June 2025.

      The King’s Birthday 2025 Honours List recognises 830 Australians, including awards in the Order of Australia (General and Military Divisions), meritorious awards and recognition for distinguished and conspicuous service. This represents an increase of awardees of almost 30% since the Australia Day 2025 List.

      The list includes people recommended to the Governor-General by the Council of the Order of Australia and organisations responsible for recommending meritorious, gallantry, distinguished and conspicuous honours. 

      “I am delighted to congratulate all those recognised in The King’s Birthday 2025 Honours List,” the Governor-General said. “These honours recognise the selfless service, integrity, achievement, creativity, and care that flourish across our country.

      “As your Governor-General, I see the values of care, kindness and respect in the many Australians who are honoured today, and in those who have been recognised throughout the fifty-year history of our Australian honours system.

      “Every day, and all across the country, Australians are doing extraordinary things with passion, generosity, energy, and resolve. To all who are being recognised in The King’s Birthday 2025 Honours List, I want to offer my congratulations and gratitude for all that you have given to Australia – and I look forward to meeting many of you at the investiture of your awards,” the Governor-General said.

      In addition to the 581 recipients of awards in the General Division of the Order of Australia (14 AC, 31 AO, 123 AM and 413 OAM), today’s Honours list includes: 

      Recipients will attend investiture ceremonies at the Government House in their respective state or territory in coming months to receive the insignia of their award.

      2025 Kings Birthday Honours from and those who have served he community in this area are Michael Bate - AM, Peter Meldrum Biscoe KC - AM, Richard Penn - AM, Teresa Plane - AM, Andrew Warden - AM, Robert (Bob) Connors - OAM, Dean Gardiner - OAM, Kim Mukuka - OAM, Ray Petersen OAM, Juris Turmanis - OAM, Michael Richer - ASM, Commissioner Alex Barrell - ESM, Douglas Lucas - ESM, Lance Miller - ESM.

      Details HERE

       

      VW State Classic 2025: Local Surfers among Winners in NSW State Surfing Titles + Results

      The VW State Classic 2025, a historic event, brought together five Surfing NSW State Titles: Junior, Masters, Longboard, SUP, High School, under one banner for the very first time.

      Taking place in Coffs Harbour from May 27 – June 1, the six day event featured over 600 of NSW’s best surfers, aged 9 to 80+. 

      Surfing NSW CEO Lucas Townsend said the VW State Classic signals a new focus for the organisation on uplifting grassroots competition and bringing community together to celebrate our surf culture. 

      “The VW State Classic is a first for Surfing NSW, bringing shortboard, longboard and SUP together in one flagship event. It’s a celebration of grassroots competition and the legacy of being a NSW State Champion.

      Beyond the lineup, it unites competitors and the local community at Aanuka Beach House to honour the region’s rich surf culture and coastal spirit.

      We’re stoked to have Sawtell, Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour Boardriders Clubs involved, and we’re grateful to the local surf community for generously sharing their waves with our State competitors.”

      Surfers from Manly to Palm Beach have featured across the event with the evening of Wednesday May 28 marking a special part of the celebrations of surfing when Tim Reilly was inducted as a Life Member of Surfing NSW, joined by other outstanding Life Members and surrounded by the NSW longboard community.

      Surfing NSW said:

      ''Tim’s unwavering dedication to the grassroots of our sport and his support for the next generation run deep. He’s been a vital connector for longboarding within Surfing NSW, always showing up with open arms, knowledge, and a full heart. Whether it’s funding junior competitors out of his own pocket or creating pathways that didn’t exist before, his impact speaks for itself.''

      Curl Curl Longboard Club's Tim Reilly - Surfing NSW's latest Life Member

      A Curl Curl Longboard Club President Tim Reilly, along with fellow clubmates John Fraser, Jason Livingston, Tom Bennetts, Matthew Anderson and Adam McManus were also competing, with great results for some. Local high school teacher Neale Ashby also had a great run, bowing out just before the semi-finals.

      In the Junior event, Ocea Curtis and local surfer Ben Zanatta claimed the Under 18 Girls and Boys titles, while Lucy Darragh and Joey Silk secured wins in the Under 16 divisions.

      Keira Buckpitt took out the Open Women’s title, with Koda Killorn claiming victory in the Open Men’s division. 

      NASA surfer Shane Carroll took out his division, with fellow Pittwaterian Shane Conwell rounding out the final 4 in their Masters comp. 

      Former Avalon Beach and Barrenjoey High School alumni Col Bernasconi won his age division in the Masters shortboard competition - not the first time Col has been a State Champion

      MORE HERE

      Shane Carroll being chaired by fellow NASA members - Shane Conwell (in blue) and Kelly Mills (thumbs up).

       

      NSW Government announces Beachwatch program to continue under current model for another two years 

      Bayview baths at Bayview Pittwater continues to be poor, with frequent recording of effluent runoff in this end of the estuary. See December 2024 report Bayview Pollution runoff persists: Resident states raw sewerage is being washed into the estuary

      On Wednesday June 4, 2025, the day before World Environment Day, and as we headed towards World Oceans Day on Sunday June 8, the Minns Labor Government announced it has committed to the current funding model for the Beachwatch program, which supports local councils to monitor the water quality of their beaches, rivers and inland swim sites. 

      Beachwatch currently provides high-quality data and information on pollution for 94 swimming spots right across Sydney, from our popular coastal beaches to new swimming spots in Penrith and Parramatta.

      The program tests swim site bacteria and other pollutants that could lead to potential human health issues and takes into account recent rainfall to forecast the likelihood of pollution.

      Under the former government, a decision was made to shift the cost of testing onto Sydney coastal councils. 

      The Minns Government stated it has decided that the former government’s proposal to change funding for Beachwatch would be a challenge for Sydney councils who have the vast majority of swim sites.

      The NSW Government has decided to continue the program funding under the current model for another two years and will continue to work with Councils on sustainable long-term arrangements for Beachwatch, as more swim sites open.

      Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Penny Sharpe said:

      “Beachwatch is an important program for keeping swimmers informed of emerging pollution problems in our much-loved swimming spots.

      “The Government is committed to genuine partnerships with councils. The Councils made their case, and we have listened.

      “The previous changes to the Beachwatch program that were not fit for purpose. We will continue the current arrangements as long-term sustainability of the program is realised.”

      Mayor Sue Heins also welcomed the announcement stating:

      ''The NSW Government listened to our advocacy and announced will continue to fund their Beachwatch program to keep locals and the visitors of visitors to our area informed on beach water quality. [it's] Great to see common sense prevail.''

      The Sydney Coastal Councils Group (SCCG) welcomed the decision stating:

      ''This commitment, announced by the Minister for the Environment, Penny Sharpe, ensures that the program will remain state-funded, safeguarding public health and environmental integrity.

      ''The SCCG has been at the forefront of advocating for the Beachwatch program to remain a fully funded state responsibility. This advocacy was in response to proposed changes that would have shifted the financial burden of water quality monitoring onto local councils – a move that many councils, already facing budget constraints, opposed.'' the SCCG said in an issued statement

      ''The SCCG highlighted that local councils are not legally responsible for monitoring water quality in coastal waters, a responsibility that traditionally falls under state jurisdiction. It also identified that the majority poor beachwatch ratings are also due to sewer leaks, which are not the responsibility of Sydney Councils.

      The Beachwatch program is instrumental in providing the public with accurate and timely information about the safety of our swim sites. The collation of long-term monitoring data into the Annual State of the Beaches reports, also enables the health of our swim sites to be tracked and efforts to improve sewer leaks prioritised.''

      The NSW Government’s decision acknowledges the concerns raised by the SCCG and its member Councils. However, there are still concerns that this backflip is only a temporary reprieve and is urging the NSW Government to rule out future cost-shifting of this vital long term monitoring program for Sydney.'' SCCG said

      Background

      Recreational water quality has been monitored in the Sydney region since 1989 by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water’s Beachwatch program and since 2022 by Blue Mountains City Council under the Beachwatch Partnership Program. 

      Monitoring of estuarine beaches commenced in 1994, with the addition of Sydney Harbour, Botany Bay and lower Georges River to the program. Pittwater Council estuarine areas were added in 1996 and most sites in Port Hacking were added in 1999. 

      MORE HERE

      Week Two June 2025 (June 2 - 9): King's Birthday Honours Edition

      Council announces single service for lifeguards across the Peninsula

      VW State Classic 2025: Local Surfers among Winners in NSW State Surfing Titles + Results

      Rockfisher Drowns at North Head

      Aquatics NSW Government announces Beachwatch program to continue under current model for another two years

      Marine Rescue NSW commends caution as missions drop in May 2025

      Operation Snow Safe 2025 launches For opening of ski season: NSW Police

      High Schools Get Hooked on New Fishing Program

      North Narrabeen in 1911 - Panoramas taken for West's Lakeside Estate

      Australia Post prioritises Postie safety with introduction of new dog attack deterrent

      Park Bench Philosophers Snow Season 2025: Local Connections with the Sport of Skiing beginnings in Charles Kerry, Percy Hunter and Herbert Schlink

      Pictures Long Reef Sunrise Headland Walk by Joe Mills

      DIY Ideas 11 Ways to keep your home Warm, Safe and Save Money this Winter

      Environment Discover Sydney’s blooming spectacular Muogamarra, Decades of searching and a chance discovery: why finding Leadbeater’s possum in NSW is such big news, Hello Leadbeater's Possum! Species thought extinct in NSW found in Kosciuszko National Park, Welcoming winter gardens: BirdLife Australia - FREE Online Habitat Course, 2025 World Albatross Day: 19 June, Surfrider Foundation: June 22 2025 Surf Swap at Narrabeen, Whale Census Day 2025: June 29, Have your say on council's climate change policy, Council's Draft Land Dealings Policy: Have your Say, Council's Proposed Amendments to Development Control Plans (DCPs) For Low and Mid-Rise Housing: Have Your Say, Weed of the Week: Morning Glory - please get it out of your garden, First Strategy to protect NSW heritage released, Sydney Water sewage licences reviews open for public consultation: Warriewood + Manly, Sydney Water Management Regulation 2025: have your say, WIRES 2025 Grants Applications Now Open, First NSW Waste and Circular Infrastructure Plan released: Feedback invited, Solar for apartment residents: Funding, Have your say: NSW Sustainable Communities Program, Mine safety cost recovery regulation: have your say, Dorrigo Arc Rainforest Centre environmental review available: Have your say, We tracked 13,000 giants of the ocean over 30 years, to uncover their hidden highways, Could a river sue a corporation? Robert Macfarlane’s books change the world – now he’s advocating for the world’s waterways, Extreme weather events have slowed economic growth, adding to the case for another rate cut, Kids care deeply about our planet so adults need to start listening, The Top End’s tropical savannas are a natural wonder – but weak environment laws mean their future is uncertain, Australia’s latest emissions data reveal we still have a giant fossil fuel problem, Unprecedented heat in the North Atlantic Ocean kickstarted Europe’s hellish 2023 summer. Now we know what caused it, Five geoengineering trials the UK is funding to combat global warming, The chicks are alright: what songbirds can teach us about divorce and moving on, The Queensland government is cancelling renewable energy projects. Can the state still reach net zero, These 5 roadblocks are standing in the way of energy-efficient home, ‘1080 pest management’, Volunteers for Barrenjoey Lighthouse Tours needed, Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 Recycling Batteries: at Mona Vale + Avalon Beach, Reporting Dogs Offleash - Dog Attacks to Council, Plastic Bread Ties For Wheelchairs, Stay Safe From Mosquitoes, Mountain Bike Incidents On Public Land, Report fox sightings, Marine wildlife rescue group 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, Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations in Pittwater, Ringtail Posses, Pittwater Reserves: histories + Walks, Birds, + 

      Inbox News Do the quick and easy bowel screening test that could save your life: Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, Exercise proves powerful in preventing colon cancer recurrence: new study,  Rosalind Croucher appointed NSW Information Commissioner, National Anti-Scam Centre calls for stronger business role to disrupt scams, Average retail petrol prices edge higher in the March quarter on the back of a lower Australian dollar, Three years after the Jenkins report there is still work to be done on improving parliament culture, Is the private hospital system collapsing? Here’s what the sector’s financial instability means for you, Newcastle ready for global take-off with first international flight outside Australasia, With a government review underway we have to ask why children bully other kids, Police aren’t properly trained for mental health crises – but they’re often the first responders. Here’s what works better, People with severe mental illness are waiting for days in hospital EDs; Here’s how we can do better, What’s a ‘Strombolian eruption’? A volcanologist explains what happened at Mount Etna, Friendly's 50 Years of Coaching: Community Recognition statement, Avalon Beach Historical Society June Meeting, History of Narrabeen: U3A Speaker, New Aged Care Act to start from 1 November, E-learning now available for the new Aged Care Act, AvPals 25th Year: Term Two Newport Sessions, Your smartphone is a parasite, according to evolution, COTA Australia statement regarding Aged Care Act delay, Reform delay backed but home care action needed now, Resident-to-resident aggression is common in nursing homes. Here’s how we can improve residents’ safety, The Potter Museum of Art relaunches with the outstanding 65,000 Years; a Short History of Australian Art, Too much sitting increases risk of future health problems in chest pain patients – new research, 2025 Juniors Primary Schools NSW School Sport Games: Results + State Team for Australian Football, High schools Get Hooked on new fishing program, North Narrabeen in 1911 - Panoramas taken for West's Lakeside Estate, Opportunities: Surfrider Foundation's June 2025 Surf Swap + Kay Cottee Women's Development Regatta + The 2025 CWAS "David Malin Awards" + More places available in innovative jobs program for women + 2025 Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards entries are now open + Band Comp. at Palmy, Financial help for young people, School Leavers Support, Word Of The Week: Snow, The four best non-lyrical vocal moments in pop music – from la la las to duh duh duhs, ‘There are too many unpleasant things in life without creating more’: why Impressionism is the world’s favourite art movement, Both novelty and familiarity affect memory – how to make use of this when preparing for exams, Your smartphone is a parasite according to evolution, Australia’s lowest paid workers just got a 3.5% wage increase. Their next boost could be even better, Austen and Turner: A Country House Encounter captures the spirit of two great geniuses, Friday essay: let’s rethink Australia’s national security – and focus on fairness and climate action

      _________________________

      Week Five May 2025 - Week One June 2025 (May 26 - June 1): Issue 643

      Profile: A Celebration of Jack McCoy

      History: Avalon Beach Camping Ground Gave a Lot of Legends to the Pittwater Community

      2025 Environment Art & Design Prize Finalists announced

      Pictures A Few Waves for Jack: Little, South + North Av. 

      Receivers appointed to Healthscope parent companies: short-term partial rent deferral agreement - EOI received

      World Oceans Day 2025 at Bongin Bongin Bay Mona Vale: The Janice Mason Memorial Swim + Family-Friendly Activities - Sunday June 8, from 8am

      Aquatics RPAYC's Gwen Slade Regatta 2025 + Upcoming Inaugural Kay Cottee Women's Development Regatta - June 29

      Avalon Computer Pals turns 25

      Local photographer reveals a new wave perspective on South Curl Curl Rockpool in new exhibition 'Immersed' at Manly Library

      Park Bench Philosophers Labor approves Woodside's North West Shelf extension: 'a prelude to approval for Woodside's Browse Project carbon bomb' + Green light for gas: North West Shelf gas plant cleared to run until 2070 + How the North West Shelf expansion risks further damage to Murujuga’s 50,000-year-old rock art

      Job Scam Fusion Cell disrupts fake job networks targeting Australians: ScamWatch information on what to look for in Jobs and employment scams

      Feedback Invited on Council's Climate Change Policy + Changes to Development Control Plans  (for Manly-Warringah-Pittwater) - closes June 22

      Narrabeen's RSL ANZAC Village Renewal Project: Feedback Invited (May to June 2025) - History Insights Sought

      Profile of the Week The King's Birthday 2025 Honours List 

      Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, announced the King’s Birthday 2025 Honours list on Monday 9 June 2025.

      The King’s Birthday 2025 Honours List recognises 830 Australians, including awards in the Order of Australia (General and Military Divisions), meritorious awards and recognition for distinguished and conspicuous service. This represents an increase of awardees of almost 30% since the Australia Day 2025 List.

      The list includes people recommended to the Governor-General by the Council of the Order of Australia and organisations responsible for recommending meritorious, gallantry, distinguished and conspicuous honours. 

      “I am delighted to congratulate all those recognised in The King’s Birthday 2025 Honours List,” the Governor-General said. “These honours recognise the selfless service, integrity, achievement, creativity, and care that flourish across our country.

      “As your Governor-General, I see the values of care, kindness and respect in the many Australians who are honoured today, and in those who have been recognised throughout the fifty-year history of our Australian honours system.

      “Every day, and all across the country, Australians are doing extraordinary things with passion, generosity, energy, and resolve. To all who are being recognised in The King’s Birthday 2025 Honours List, I want to offer my congratulations and gratitude for all that you have given to Australia – and I look forward to meeting many of you at the investiture of your awards,” the Governor-General said.

      In addition to the 581 recipients of awards in the General Division of the Order of Australia (14 AC, 31 AO, 123 AM and 413 OAM), today’s Honours list includes: 

      Recipients will attend investiture ceremonies at the Government House in their respective state or territory in coming months to receive the insignia of their award.

      2025 Kings Birthday Honours from and those who have served the community in this area are Michael Bate - AM, Peter Meldrum Biscoe KC - AM, Richard Penn - AM, Teresa Plane - AM, Andrew Warden - AM, Robert (Bob) Connors - OAM, Dean Gardiner - OAM, Kim Mukuka - OAM, Ray Petersen OAM, Juris Turmanis - OAM, Michael Richer - ASM, Commissioner Alex Barrell - ESM, Douglas Lucas - ESM, Lance Miller - ESM.


        In the lead into VP Day 2025 we share a few local connections to the World War Two conflict in the Pacific that may not be well-known, commencing with the Workers' Educational Association 'Summer School' facility, which once stood on the corner of Wallamatta and Nullaburra roads at Newport, and was the venue for Women's Australian National Service (WANS), in particular the Sydney University Wans (known as "Swans") training, and by 1945 was the place for US and UK War Brides (BPF: British Pacific Fleet servicemen) who learnt skills which may make their new lives in their husband's countries easier.

        Victory in the Pacific (VP) Day in 2025 will be commemorated on Friday, August 15th in 2025, and will be mark the 80th anniversary of Japan's surrender to the Allied forces in 1945. This day signifies the end of World War II in the Pacific and is a time for Australians to remember and honour the service and sacrifice of all those who served in this conflict, and particularly in the Pacific.

        A combined Sub-Branches VP Day Commemoration Service will be held at the Avalon Beach RSL Cenotaph, commencing at 11.30am, led by Vice President Tamara Sloper-Harding, OAM, with the 2025 Guest Speaker being Commanding Officer HMAS Waterhen; Commander Lucy Frauenfelder, RAN.

        In the Pacific theatre of World War II, Australia experienced significant casualties. The Australian War Memorial records at least 27,073 Australian soldiers were killed and 23,477 wounded from enemy action. Additionally, over 30,000 Australians were captured by the Japanese during the war, with a significant number dying in captivity.

        On September 3rd, 1939, the day Great Britain declared war on Germany, Australia also declared war, announced by then Prime Minister Robert Menzies on national radio. 

        The conflict, which would continue for 6 years, saw Australia attacked for the first time, at Darwin, and through the mini-submarine attacks within Sydney Harbour and along the eastern seaboard, with one of these being found off Bungan Beach, now an official war grave.

        When the Empire of Japan captured the British stronghold of Singapore between February 8 to 15 1942, imprisoning young men like Warriewood's Walter Williams and Palm Beach SLSC's Adrian Curlewis, by then Prime Minister John Curtin recalled many of the Australians serving in North Africa and the Europeans theatres of conflict.

        Pittwater's Anthony Ruskin Rowe, a spitfire pilot and one of those recalled, lost his life on June 20th 1943 defending Darwin, while Narrabeen resident Lindsay Dufty served on the ground in the top end.

        In Pittwater a submarine boom would be placed between Barrenjoey and the West Head headlands, anti-tank traps would rip up the countryside between Mona Vale, Bungan and Bayview, barbed wire would be placed along the beaches to thwart invasion and troops would be stationed at gun emplacements along the peninsula, while Coast Watchers, along with women who stayed would be part of the 'spotter' squads - stationing themselves along each headland - with the women taking on a roster of each staying atop the headlands twice each each week to look out for and report enemy ships, submarines and planes. Only one known fatality is recorded, at this stage, of those all-women 'spotter' squads, Palm Beach resident Ailsa Craig, by then the wife of Captain George Urquhart (Scotty) Allan. 

        Week Two June 2025 (June 2 - 9): King's Birthday Honours Edition

        Council announces single service for lifeguards across the Peninsula

        VW State Classic 2025: Local Surfers among Winners in NSW State Surfing Titles + Results

        Rockfisher Drowns at North Head

        Aquatics NSW Government announces Beachwatch program to continue under current model for another two years

        Marine Rescue NSW commends caution as missions drop in May 2025

        Operation Snow Safe 2025 launches For opening of ski season: NSW Police

        High Schools Get Hooked on New Fishing Program

        North Narrabeen in 1911 - Panoramas taken for West's Lakeside Estate

        Australia Post prioritises Postie safety with introduction of new dog attack deterrent

        Park Bench Philosophers Snow Season 2025: Local Connections with the Sport of Skiing beginnings in Charles Kerry, Percy Hunter and Herbert Schlink

        Pictures Long Reef Sunrise Headland Walk by Joe Mills

        DIY Ideas 11 Ways to keep your home warm, safe and save money this Winter

        _________________________

        Week Five May 2025 - Week One June 2025 (May 26 - June 1): Issue 643

        Profile: A Celebration of Jack McCoy

        History: Avalon Beach Camping Ground Gave a Lot of Legends to the Pittwater Community

        2025 Environment Art & Design Prize Finalists announced

        Pictures A Few Waves for Jack: Little, South + North Av. 

        Receivers appointed to Healthscope parent companies: short-term partial rent deferral agreement - EOI received

        World Oceans Day 2025 at Bongin Bongin Bay Mona Vale: The Janice Mason Memorial Swim + Family-Friendly Activities - Sunday June 8, from 8am

        Aquatics RPAYC's Gwen Slade Regatta 2025 + Upcoming Inaugural Kay Cottee Women's Development Regatta - June 29

        Avalon Computer Pals turns 25

        Local photographer reveals a new wave perspective on South Curl Curl Rockpool in new exhibition 'Immersed' at Manly Library

        Park Bench Philosophers Labor approves Woodside's North West Shelf extension: 'a prelude to approval for Woodside's Browse Project carbon bomb' + Green light for gas: North West Shelf gas plant cleared to run until 2070 + How the North West Shelf expansion risks further damage to Murujuga’s 50,000-year-old rock art

        Job Scam Fusion Cell disrupts fake job networks targeting Australians: ScamWatch information on what to look for in Jobs and employment scams

        Feedback Invited on Council's Climate Change Policy + Changes to Development Control Plans  (for Manly-Warringah-Pittwater) - closes June 22

        Narrabeen's RSL ANZAC Village Renewal Project: Feedback Invited (May to June 2025) - History Insights Sought

        Profile of the Week The King's Birthday 2025 Honours List 

        Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, announced the King’s Birthday 2025 Honours list on Monday 9 June 2025.

        The King’s Birthday 2025 Honours List recognises 830 Australians, including awards in the Order of Australia (General and Military Divisions), meritorious awards and recognition for distinguished and conspicuous service. This represents an increase of awardees of almost 30% since the Australia Day 2025 List.

        The list includes people recommended to the Governor-General by the Council of the Order of Australia and organisations responsible for recommending meritorious, gallantry, distinguished and conspicuous honours. 

        “I am delighted to congratulate all those recognised in The King’s Birthday 2025 Honours List,” the Governor-General said. “These honours recognise the selfless service, integrity, achievement, creativity, and care that flourish across our country.

        “As your Governor-General, I see the values of care, kindness and respect in the many Australians who are honoured today, and in those who have been recognised throughout the fifty-year history of our Australian honours system.

        “Every day, and all across the country, Australians are doing extraordinary things with passion, generosity, energy, and resolve. To all who are being recognised in The King’s Birthday 2025 Honours List, I want to offer my congratulations and gratitude for all that you have given to Australia – and I look forward to meeting many of you at the investiture of your awards,” the Governor-General said.

        In addition to the 581 recipients of awards in the General Division of the Order of Australia (14 AC, 31 AO, 123 AM and 413 OAM), today’s Honours list includes: 

        Recipients will attend investiture ceremonies at the Government House in their respective state or territory in coming months to receive the insignia of their award.

        2025 Kings Birthday Honours from and those who have served the community in this area are Michael Bate - AM, Peter Meldrum Biscoe KC - AM, Richard Penn - AM, Teresa Plane - AM, Andrew Warden - AM, Robert (Bob) Connors - OAM, Dean Gardiner - OAM, Kim Mukuka - OAM, Ray Petersen OAM, Juris Turmanis - OAM, Michael Richer - ASM, Commissioner Alex Barrell - ESM, Douglas Lucas - ESM, Lance Miller - ESM.

          History WEA's Newport Summer School – for Workers, WANS + Future U.S., B.P.F. Wives: Local Insights for The 80th Commemoration of VP Day in 2025

          In the lead into VP Day 2025 we share a few local connections to the World War Two conflict in the Pacific that may not be well-known, commencing with the Workers' Educational Association 'Summer School' facility, which once stood on the corner of Wallamatta and Nullaburra roads at Newport, and was the venue for Women's Australian National Service (WANS), in particular the Sydney University Wans (known as "Swans") training, and by 1945 was the place for US and UK War Brides (BPF: British Pacific Fleet servicemen) who learnt skills which may make their new lives in their husband's countries easier.

          Victory in the Pacific (VP) Day in 2025 will be commemorated on Friday, August 15th in 2025, and will be mark the 80th anniversary of Japan's surrender to the Allied forces in 1945. This day signifies the end of World War II in the Pacific and is a time for Australians to remember and honour the service and sacrifice of all those who served in this conflict, and particularly in the Pacific.

          A combined Sub-Branches VP Day Commemoration Service will be held at the Avalon Beach RSL Cenotaph, commencing at 11.30am, led by Vice President Tamara Sloper-Harding, OAM, with the 2025 Guest Speaker being Commanding Officer HMAS Waterhen; Commander Lucy Frauenfelder, RAN.

          In the Pacific theatre of World War II, Australia experienced significant casualties. The Australian War Memorial records at least 27,073 Australian soldiers were killed and 23,477 wounded from enemy action. Additionally, over 30,000 Australians were captured by the Japanese during the war, with a significant number dying in captivity.

          On September 3rd, 1939, the day Great Britain declared war on Germany, Australia also declared war, announced by then Prime Minister Robert Menzies on national radio. 

          The conflict, which would continue for 6 years, saw Australia attacked for the first time, at Darwin, and through the mini-submarine attacks within Sydney Harbour and along the eastern seaboard, with one of these being found off Bungan Beach, now an official war grave.

          When the Empire of Japan captured the British stronghold of Singapore between February 8 to 15 1942, imprisoning young men like Warriewood's Walter Williams and Palm Beach SLSC's Adrian Curlewis, by then Prime Minister John Curtin recalled many of the Australians serving in North Africa and the Europeans theatres of conflict.

          Pittwater's Anthony Ruskin Rowe, a spitfire pilot and one of those recalled, lost his life on June 20th 1943 defending Darwin, while Narrabeen resident Lindsay Dufty served on the ground in the top end.

          In Pittwater a submarine boom would be placed between Barrenjoey and the West Head headlands, anti-tank traps would rip up the countryside between Mona Vale, Bungan and Bayview, barbed wire would be placed along the beaches to thwart invasion and troops would be stationed at gun emplacements along the peninsula, while Coast Watchers, along with women who stayed would be part of the 'spotter' squads - stationing themselves along each headland - with the women taking on a roster of each staying atop the headlands twice each each week to look out for and report enemy ships, submarines and planes. Only one known fatality is recorded, at this stage, of those all-women 'spotter' squads, Palm Beach resident Ailsa Craig, by then the wife of Captain George Urquhart (Scotty) Allan. 

          Events  Raturdays, Warringah Rugby's Annual Luncheon,  Band Comp. at Palm Beach, 'Warringah and Music, Markets, Social Groups, + lots more.

          Community News Friendly's 50 Years of Coaching: Community Recognition statement, ABHS June Meeting, Labor introduces laws to crack down on misuse of affordable housing, Pothole Problems: How to report, Sydney Harbour Bridge and Tunnel tolls rise, Renewing the water main in Old Barrenjoey Road: Update, Nominations open for the 2025 Australian Mental Health Prize, Cremorne Point Ferry Wharf Closure, The 2025 CWAS "David Malin Awards", Bilgola Beach Carpark Accessible parking upgrade: Feedback Invited, Parliamentary Committee to examine early childhood education and care sector in NSW, Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week: Lady + Tango, Proposed Road Reserve Lease - Wilga Street and Powderworks Road, Elanora Heights, Proposed Laneway Closure and sale of land: 20-28 Montauban Avenue, Seaforth, More funding available for war memorials in NSW, Create NSW Cultural Grants - Now Open,  Pittwater  Sports, Social, Environment, Residents Associations and Groups

          Environment Discover Sydney’s blooming spectacular Muogamarra, Decades of searching and a chance discovery: why finding Leadbeater’s possum in NSW is such big news, Hello Leadbeater's Possum! Species thought extinct in NSW found in Kosciuszko National Park, Welcoming winter gardens: BirdLife Australia - FREE Online Habitat Course, 2025 World Albatross Day: 19 June, Surfrider Foundation: June 22 2025 Surf Swap at Narrabeen, Whale Census Day 2025: June 29, Have your say on council's climate change policy, Council's Draft Land Dealings Policy: Have your Say, Council's Proposed Amendments to Development Control Plans (DCPs) For Low and Mid-Rise Housing: Have Your Say, Weed of the Week: Morning Glory - please get it out of your garden, First Strategy to protect NSW heritage released, Sydney Water sewage licences reviews open for public consultation: Warriewood + Manly, Sydney Water Management Regulation 2025: have your say, WIRES 2025 Grants Applications Now Open, First NSW Waste and Circular Infrastructure Plan released: Feedback invited, Solar for apartment residents: Funding, Have your say: NSW Sustainable Communities Program, Mine safety cost recovery regulation: have your say, Dorrigo Arc Rainforest Centre environmental review available: Have your say, We tracked 13,000 giants of the ocean over 30 years, to uncover their hidden highways, Could a river sue a corporation? Robert Macfarlane’s books change the world – now he’s advocating for the world’s waterways, Extreme weather events have slowed economic growth, adding to the case for another rate cut, Kids care deeply about our planet so adults need to start listening, The Top End’s tropical savannas are a natural wonder – but weak environment laws mean their future is uncertain, Australia’s latest emissions data reveal we still have a giant fossil fuel problem, Unprecedented heat in the North Atlantic Ocean kickstarted Europe’s hellish 2023 summer. Now we know what caused it, Five geoengineering trials the UK is funding to combat global warming, The chicks are alright: what songbirds can teach us about divorce and moving on, The Queensland government is cancelling renewable energy projects. Can the state still reach net zero, These 5 roadblocks are standing in the way of energy-efficient home, ‘1080 pest management’, Volunteers for Barrenjoey Lighthouse Tours needed, Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 Recycling Batteries: at Mona Vale + Avalon Beach, Reporting Dogs Offleash - Dog Attacks to Council, Plastic Bread Ties For Wheelchairs, Stay Safe From Mosquitoes, Mountain Bike Incidents On Public Land, Report fox sightings, Marine wildlife rescue group 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, Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations in Pittwater, Ringtail Posses, Pittwater Reserves: histories + Walks, Birds, + 

          Aquatics NSW Government announces Beachwatch program to continue under current model for another two years 

          Children Sunday Cartoons - This Issue: "Laika & Nemo", 2025 NSW School Sport Games: Results + State Team for Australian Football, Net-Set-Go at Avalon: Peninsula Netball Club, 2025 Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards entries are now open, What bird is that? Ravens & Crows, Curious Kids: can spiders swim? +  why do some dogs get ‘snow nose’ in winter? + why is air colder the higher up you go? + how is snow made?, Stories this week: Sneezy the Snowman + 'Just Snow Already!' read by Julianna Margulies, clubs fun and more for you

          Youth High schools Get Hooked on new fishing program, North Narrabeen in 1911 - Panoramas taken for West's Lakeside Estate, Opportunities: Surfrider Foundation's June 2025 Surf Swap + Kay Cottee Women's Development Regatta + The 2025 CWAS "David Malin Awards" + More places available in innovative jobs program for women + 2025 Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards entries are now open + Band Comp. at Palmy, Financial help for young people, School Leavers Support, Word Of The Week: Snow, The four best non-lyrical vocal moments in pop music – from la la las to duh duh duhs, ‘There are too many unpleasant things in life without creating more’: why Impressionism is the world’s favourite art movement, Both novelty and familiarity affect memory – how to make use of this when preparing for exams, Your smartphone is a parasite according to evolution, Australia’s lowest paid workers just got a 3.5% wage increase. Their next boost could be even better, Austen and Turner: A Country House Encounter captures the spirit of two great geniuses, Friday essay: let’s rethink Australia’s national security – and focus on fairness and climate action,local groups and services for you

          Seniors Friendly's 50 Years of Coaching: Community Recognition statement, Avalon Beach Historical Society June Meeting, History of Narrabeen: U3A Speaker, New Aged Care Act to start from 1 November, E-learning now available for the new Aged Care Act, AvPals 25th Year: Term Two Newport Sessions, Your smartphone is a parasite, according to evolution, COTA Australia statement regarding Aged Care Act delay, Reform delay backed but home care action needed now, Resident-to-resident aggression is common in nursing homes. Here’s how we can improve residents’ safety, The Potter Museum of Art relaunches with the outstanding 65,000 Years; a Short History of Australian Art, Too much sitting increases risk of future health problems in chest pain patients – new research, Local services and groups for you

          Pictures Long Reef Sunrise Headland Walk by Joe Mills

          DIY Ideas 11 Ways to keep your home warm, safe and save money this Winter

          There's no point denying it any further - we're now definitely in Winter with snow already blanketing snowfields.

          Heating homes accounts for over 70% of some household energy consumption. So reducing this figure, while keeping homes warm, not only cuts energy bills, but helps reduce carbon emissions. This Issue a few timely tips to keep your toes and fingers warm and the power bills down.

          It's also worth looking at what the state government may offer in rebates to meet energy costs. In NSW residents may qualify for a number of rebates and discounts. There's information for pensioners, families to help you and other offers to help improve the energy efficiency of your home. To find out more, visit:  energysaver.nsw.gov.au/households/rebates-and-discounts

          This Issue, our top 11 tips to keep it warm indoors + how o save on Winter heating bills

          Inbox News Do the quick and easy bowel screening test that could save your life: Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, Exercise proves powerful in preventing colon cancer recurrence: new study,  Rosalind Croucher appointed NSW Information Commissioner, National Anti-Scam Centre calls for stronger business role to disrupt scams, Average retail petrol prices edge higher in the March quarter on the back of a lower Australian dollar, Three years after the Jenkins report there is still work to be done on improving parliament culture, Is the private hospital system collapsing? Here’s what the sector’s financial instability means for you, Newcastle ready for global take-off with first international flight outside Australasia, With a government review underway we have to ask why children bully other kids, Police aren’t properly trained for mental health crises – but they’re often the first responders. Here’s what works better, People with severe mental illness are waiting for days in hospital EDs; Here’s how we can do better, What’s a ‘Strombolian eruption’? A volcanologist explains what happened at Mount Etna

          Food Winter Warmers Leek And Potato Soup, Coq Au Vin + Apple, Date and Walnut Cake With Caramel Sauce

          It's that time of year when you want something hot and substantial - 'rib sticking' food in other words. With food prices having increased an average of 25% over the past few months, choosing seasonal ingredients, that usually come at a better price, and items grown not too far from home to eliminate transporting goods add-on costs, this Issue a few of the dishes we've been making to feed a hungry family without breaking the budget.

          Park Bench Philosophers Snow Season 2025: Local Connections with the Sport of Skiing beginnings in Charles Kerry, Percy Hunter and Herbert

           

          Winter in pittwater

          Foggy evening during AFL Training at Rat Park Warriewood, Monday June 2, 2025. Photo: Joe Mills
          Magpie family on Turimetta Beach, June 2025. Photo: Joe Mills

          Week Five May 2025 - Week One June 2025 (May 26 - June 1): Issue 643

          June 1 - 30, 2025: Issue 643

           

          World Oceans Day 2025 at Bongin Bongin Bay Mona Vale: The Janice Mason Memorial Swim + Family-Friendly Activities

          Bongin Bongin Bay - Mona Vale Basin . Photo by Joe Mills

          Mona Vale SLSC is bringing back its Winter Solstice Swim, as the Janice Mason Memorial Swim, a 1km ocean swim in celebration of the United Nations World Oceans Day.

          In partnership with Friends of Bongin Bongin Bay, this event supports their mission to establish a marine sanctuary zone for the bay by 2027 and will include family-friendly activities and the FoBBB sharing insights into Bongin Bongin Bay's environment.

          The Mona Vale SLSC's Winter Solstice swim is named to honour the memory of Janice Mason, a much-loved P.E teacher, clubbie and a Dawnbuster swimmer, known as a phenomenal athlete by her peers, who succeeded at whatever sport she turned her hand to.  

          A legend of Mona Vale Surf Life Saving Club, where she had been a member since 1989, moving through the ranks from nippers to senior club, taking on the roles of chief instructor and race secretary, Janice won multiple medals at branch, state and Aussies level. 

          Sadly, in May of 2020, Janice passed away during her daily morning swim ritual with the Dawnbusters across the Mona Vale basin.

          Ms Mason’s husband Alan, a past Mona Vale SLSC president and life member, said “it is truly lovely that they have named the event after her.” 

          “It’s a wonderful opportunity for her memory to live on and remember all the things she did at the surf club.” 

          The Mona Vale Dawnbusters swim at Mona Vale Basin at 6.30am weekdays and 7.30 on weekends.

          The 'Friends of Bongin Bongin Bay’ evolved in February 2023 from a group of swimmers who traverse the bay each morning taking in the wonders of nature. The group is currently seeking to mobilise the community, seeking its support in having the area declared by the NSW Government as a ‘no take’ aquatic reserve. The primary objective of aquatic reserves in NSW is to conserve the biodiversity of fish and marine vegetation.

          The FoBBB state they are not anti-fishing, explaining;

          ''Marine sanctuaries provide a refuge for fish from being caught, allowing them to aggregate freely, grow large, and reproduce. Sanctuaries are an important tool not just to halt biodiversity loss and to create climate resilience, but to ensure food security. As fish and invertebrates grow larger they produce exponentially more eggs; the bigger the fish, the more babies they produce.

          We believe that establishing areas where larger fish can proliferate free from extractive pressures is of great value to areas adjacent that are open to fishing.''

          You can find out more about the Friends of Bongin Bongin Bay at: www.bonginbonginbay.org.au

          The 2025 edition of the Janice Mason Memorial Swim features four race divisions with prizes:

          • Male and Female categories
          • Regular and ‘Skins & Fins’ divisions

          The famous post-swim soup is back too! This year, your $40 entry includes a souvenir FoBBB 'Ned the Octopus' ceramic mug—a keepsake for a great cause. Online entries close Saturday June 7 at 3pm, sign up here: oceanswims.com/event/the-janice-mason-memorial-swim

          The race starts at 10 AM, but the fun begins early.

          The WOD festival includes the Bongin Bongin Ukulele Band, the Department of Primary Industries ’Bluey’ kids activities trailer, and Aboriginal displays and activities.

          Although the Winter Solstice will not officially be celebrated until June 25 2025, this is a great way to celebrate World Oceans Day 2025 - which has a theme of  "Wonder: Sustaining what sustains us"  to emphasise the ocean's importance as a source of life and its role in supporting all life on Earth - and the first full week of Winter in the best place in Sydney; Pittwater.

          The theme of the inaugural observance of World Oceans Day by the United Nations in 2009 was ‘Our Oceans, Our Responsibility’.

          MORE HERE


          Swimmers at The Basin or Bongin Bongin Bay (Mona Vale Beach) just after dawn. Photo: Joe Mills (Turimetta Moods)  

           

          Receivers appointed to Healthscope parent companies: short-term partial rent deferral agreement - EOI received

          Northern Beaches Hospital Nurses and Midwives at a work stoppage in October 2024. Photo: NSW Nurse and Midwives Association

          On Monday 26 May 2025 Healthscope announced it’s parent entities have entered receivership, with its lenders appointing  McGrathNicol Restructuring to work with Healthscope management to complete an orderly sale of the business. 

          The operational business, which runs the hospitals, is not in receivership.

          Healthscope stated the Group’s 37 hospitals all remain open and operating on a business-as-usual basis with no impact on staff, doctors or patient care.

          Healthscope’s management team, led by CEO Tino La Spina, will continue to lead the business and operations.

          Healthscope CEO, Tino La Spina stated:

          “All 37 of our hospitals continue to operate as normal and today’s appointment of receivers, including the additional funding, ensures a stable path to a sale, with no impacts on any hospitals, staff or patients.

          “There is no interruption to the outstanding care we provide. Our incredible teams are all working as normal, providing the high standard of care they always have. The additional funding, while we do not anticipate it being required, provides additional support.

          “The receivers and management share the same goal of maintaining our market leading standards of patient care and protecting the business, the hospitals and our amazing people.”

          The Healthscope Board has appointed partners from KordaMentha as administrators to the same non-operating entities. The receivers will assist the administrators as required to fulfil their statutory role.

          McGrathNicol have been provided with a new $100 million funding package by Commonwealth Bank of Australia to support operations during the sale process.

          This is in addition to Healthscope’s current cash balance of $110 million, and substantial additional asset backing across the group. Healthscope’s existing working capital financier is also providing support.

          Key supplier relationships will remain unaffected, with payment terms maintained.

          McGrathNicol’s intention is to transition all hospitals to new ownership, with no plans for hospital closures or redundancies. They will undertake an immediate review of the sale process to date, with a view to re-engaging with interested parties in the coming weeks.

          McGrathNicol partner and appointed receiver, Keith Crawford said:

          “We want to make it clear that the subsidiaries that own and operate Healthscope’s network of hospitals are not affected by our appointment to the shareholding companies."

          “Our immediate focus is to engage constructively with all key stakeholders to ensure uninterrupted operation of Healthscope hospitals and continuity of best practice standards of patient care.”

          “We will also work closely with Healthscope management to support any operational funding requirements via access to $100 million of new funding from Commonwealth Bank while we pursue an orderly transition of ownership of Healthscope’s hospitals.”

          The lender group has appointed Keith Crawford, Jason Ireland, Kathy Sozou and Matthew Caddy from McGrathNicol as Receivers & Managers (Receivers) of ANZ Hospitals Pty Ltd and Healthscope Newco Pty Ltd, the non-operating shareholding entities within the broader Healthscope Group.

          On Friday, May 30, HealthCo Healthcare & Wellness REIT (ASX: HCW) and the Unlisted Healthcare Fund (UHF)announced they have entered into a short-term partial rent deferral agreement with Healthscope and its Receivers. 

          Under this agreement all outstanding rent arrears for March and April 2025 and 85% of rent for May 2025 will be paid immediately and HCW and UHF (Landlords) will receive 85% of the rent due for the period June-August 2025.

          The remaining 15% deferred rent for the May-August 2025 period is due in September 2025.

          'This agreement supports the continuity of essential services at each of 11 Healthscope private hospitals owned by the Landlords.' the announcement states

          MORE HERE

           

          RPAYC's Gwen Slade Regatta 2025 + Upcoming Inaugural Kay Cottee Women's Development Regatta - June 29 

          The 2025 Gwen Slade Women’s Regatta was sailed on Sunday May 25 2025 in a light nor’wester, with seven Etchells on the  start line. The fleet included a mix of experienced and new skippers, and the racing was tight across all three races.

          Returning champions Bayley Taylor and Alice Lydement were joined by first-time skippers Emily McCutcheon and Simone Wood-Hanson, as well as returning competitors Jenny Danks, Liz Charles, and Ellie Hobbs.

          The Gwen Slade Etchells Regatta is a cherished event at the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club (RPAYC), celebrating women’s sailing and honouring the memory of Gwen Slade. Established in 1981 by Life Member and esteemed sailor William Russell Slade to honour his wife, the regatta was created to encourage and promote female participation in competitive sailing.

          Russell Slade was a prominent face of sailing in the 1960s, having competed in the Olympics and being a strong competitor in 16ft Skiffs and 5.5m class boats he was also the first person to build a Fibreglass yacht in Australia, Janzoon II.

          Russell Slade, as described by his son Paul Slade, was a passionate man who believed sailing should be a family-involved sport, based on fun rather than purely on winning. His love for one-design racing led to the choice of boat and the development of the Gwen Slade Regatta. The Etchells class was selected because it was a growing fleet at the time, and its simplicity made it ideal for both advanced and beginner sailors to race competitively. With a little media help from the Packer family, Russell successfully launched the first Gwen Slade Ladies Regatta in 1981, ensuring it would be a strong platform for female sailors for generations to come.

          From its inception, the Gwen Slade Etchells Regatta has been distinctive in its format: a one-design Etchells class competition with women at the helm of each yacht. This structure not only ensures a level playing field, highlighting skill and strategy, but also empowers women to take leadership roles on the water.

          More in: RPAYC's Gwen Slade Regatta 2025 + Upcoming Inaugural Kay Cottee Women's Development Regatta - June 29

           

          Avalon Computer Pals turns 25

          Photo: Avpals trainer Saskia Zaitzieff delivering a lesson at the Newport Community Centre.

          Avalon Computer Pals for Seniors (Avpals) has marked 25 years teaching local seniors how to use computers and related technology.

          Community interest in learning to use computers resulted in a meeting at Avalon Recreation Centre on 19 January 2000 organised by Nan Bosler, a founder of a similar club at Narrabeen. The meeting appointed a steering committee of volunteers, and premises at Maria Regina (Catholic) Church Hall were obtained. 

          The first public meeting was chaired by David Bennett on 15 April. It elected a committee, and eleven trainers joined up. Lessons commenced on 1 May 2000. Originally 58 students were enrolled, and by 3 July there were 86. Financial support was provided by Pittwater Council and Avalon RSL

          The aim of the club was written up by Judith Morrissey in “Information for Members”. It is relevant today. “Senior citizens have many reasons for wanting to be computer literate. Computers are used widely in today’s society. We can communicate with members of our family travelling anywhere in the world by email. We can manage our finances on computer, write our life histories and participate with our grandchildren who are using computers. The list is endless. Our aim is to assist seniors by removing barriers and de-mystifying this area of modern life.” 

          When Avpals began, two students at a time sat in front of a club computer with a trainer for an hour’s weekly lesson. There were no smartphones or tablets and few laptops. Even the internet was in its infancy. Today, the club continues to teach students at the Avalon Catholic Church for weekly lessons one-on-one. Nearly all students bring their own devices, and trainers tailor the lesson content to the students’ particular needs. 

          In 2012, Avpals broadened its activities to provide lectures and small-group workshops at the Newport Community Centre one afternoon a week during school terms. These have proved very popular and cover topics such as iPhones, photography, internet security, travelling with technology, and many others. 

          Fees are very affordable, at $50 for a ten-week term one-on-one and $10 or $15 for Newport workshops. Some lectures are free. 

          Avpals president Jim Carmichael said, “Minutes from a meeting in 2007 suggested that Avpals may be dying, with student numbers in steady decline. But since then, with new technologies, new applications, worries about security and curiosity about AI, our numbers have recovered, and both the Avalon and Newport activities are thriving. It looks like Avpals will be around for a while yet.” 

          Avpals is always looking for new students and trainers.  

          Details are available at the website avpals.com and on the club’s Facebook page. There is a weekly newsletter for people on the mailing list.

          Week Five May 2025 - Week One June 2025 (May 26 - June 1): Issue 643

          2025 Environment Art & Design Prize Finalists announced

          Pictures A Few Waves for Jack: Little, South + North Av. 

          Receivers appointed to Healthscope parent companies: short-term partial rent deferral agreement - EOI received

          World Oceans Day 2025 at Bongin Bongin Bay Mona Vale: The Janice Mason Memorial Swim + Family-Friendly Activities - Sunday June 8, from 8am

          Aquatics RPAYC's Gwen Slade Regatta 2025 + Upcoming Inaugural Kay Cottee Women's Development Regatta - June 29

          Avalon Computer Pals turns 25

          Local photographer reveals a new wave perspective on South Curl Curl Rockpool in new exhibition 'Immersed' at Manly Library

          Park Bench Philosophers Labor approves Woodside's North West Shelf extension: 'a prelude to approval for Woodside's Browse Project carbon bomb' + Green light for gas: North West Shelf gas plant cleared to run until 2070 + How the North West Shelf expansion risks further damage to Murujuga’s 50,000-year-old rock art

          Job Scam Fusion Cell disrupts fake job networks targeting Australians: ScamWatch information on what to look for in Jobs and employment scams

          Feedback Invited on Council's Climate Change Policy + Changes to Development Control Plans  (for Manly-Warringah-Pittwater) - closes June 22

          Narrabeen's RSL ANZAC Village Renewal Project: Feedback Invited (May to June 2025) - History Insights Sought

          Environment Dust storm over Pittwater, Elanora Dragon Rescue, Labor approves Woodside's North West Shelf extension: 'a prelude to approval for Woodside's Browse Project carbon bomb', Green light for gas: North West Shelf gas plant cleared to run until 2070, As record floods raged NSW Government quietly approved fifth coal mine expansion, Minns Government approves sixth coal mine expansion as NSW communities start cleanup after latest climate disaster, Pilliga Update: NSW Labor Backs Santos to drill 850 wells in Forest Of Gomeroi Country; First Nations' land rights extinguished by Court in favour of multinational’s right to mine gas - Unions vow to back fight ‘whatever the cost’, Mid North Coast Floods: “We are in a new climate reality – the Government must act”, Report: Heavy rain in May 2025 New South Wales  floods locally intensified by human-driven climate change, Fifth anniversary of Juukan Gorge disaster, Surfrider: Local June 2025 Events, 'Warringah and Pittwater Garden Heritage' Event, Whale Census Day 2025: June 29, Have your say on council's climate change policy, Council's Draft Land Dealings Policy: Have your Say, Council's Proposed Amendments to Development Control Plans (DCPs) For Low and Mid-Rise Housing: Have Your Say, Weed of the Week: Blue Spur Flower - please get it out of your garden, First Strategy to protect NSW heritage released, Sydney Water sewage licences reviews open for public consultation: Warriewood + Manly, Sydney Water Management Regulation 2025: have your say, WIRES 2025 Grants Applications Now Open, Feedback invited until June 3 on proposed shorter-term WaterNSW prices, First NSW Waste and Circular Infrastructure Plan released, Solar for apartment residents: Funding, Have your say: NSW Sustainable Program - Support to minimise the socio-economic impacts of the Restoring Our Rivers 450 GL target, Yiraaldiya National Park: Have your say - Draft Plan of Management, Conservation of inter-generational assets: Have your say, Batemans Bay Dredging: Have your say, Mine safety cost recovery regulation: have your say, NSW Government’s call to action on illegal tree clearing, First strategy to protect NSW heritage released, Dorrigo Arc Rainforest Centre environmental review available: Have your say, Earth is heading for 2.7°C warming this century. We may avoid the worst climate scenarios – but the outlook is still dire, As Australia’s carbon offset industry grapples with integrity concerns how can companies genuinely tackle climate change?, UNESCO expresses ‘utmost concern’ at the state of the Great Barrier Reef, Antarctica’s sea ice is changing, and so is a vital part of the marine food web that lives within it, Australia’s conservation efforts ignore climate risks – here are 3 fixes, Earth’s seasonal rhythms are changing; putting species and ecosystems at risk, From surprise platypus to wandering cane toads; here’s what we found hiding in NSW estuaries, This rare alpine frog is fighting against a lethal fungus – by breeding faster and faster, Faces you hear? Australia-Indonesia bird flu partnership takes flight on global stage, Dolphin ‘signature whistles’ may transmit more than just identity information, Raining one week, dusty the next – how did a dust storm make it all the way to rainy Sydney?, For many island species the next tropical cyclone may be their last, Anti-environmentalism is on the rise but it’s full of contradictions, ‘1080 pest management’, Volunteers for Barrenjoey Lighthouse Tours needed, Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 Recycling Batteries: at Mona Vale + Avalon Beach, Reporting Dogs Offleash - Dog Attacks to Council, Plastic Bread Ties For Wheelchairs, Stay Safe From Mosquitoes, Mountain Bike Incidents On Public Land, Report fox sightings, Marine wildlife rescue group 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, Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations in Pittwater, Ringtail Posses, Pittwater Reserves: histories + Walks, Birds, + 

          Inbox News Protecting workers compensation for future generations, Captain Cook College, Site Group and Blake Wills to pay total penalties of $30.4 million for unconscionable conduct towards students, Corroboree 2000, 25 years on: the march for Indigenous reconciliation has left a complicated legacy, Is it OK to leave device chargers plugged in all the time? An expert explains, What makes somebody a narcissist? Mounting evidence suggests links to insecure attachment styles, Daylight can boost the immune system’s ability to fight infections – new study, From strip searches to sexual harassment, Australian policing has long been plagued by sexism, ‘No pain, no gain’: why some primary students are following intense study routines, Boys are more resilient than girls to school setbacks. Here’s how you can help, Landmark donation powers world-first endometriosis research institute at UNSW, Heart attack or panic attack? Why young men are calling ambulances for unmanaged anxiety, 6 ways live music could help combat the loneliness epidemic, Vale Jack McCoy, Avalon Computer Pals turns 25 - Term 2 2025 classes, New research reveals ageist assumptions that “bleep” off older people, The Avon Lady, Avalon Beach Historical Society June 2025 Meeting, History of Narrabeen: U3A Meeting Speaker Susan Alexander, Letters to home care recipients to prepare for Support at Home, Celebrating 50 Years of Friendly at the Avalon Bulldogs, There’s a new COVID variant driving up infections. A virologist explains what to know about NB.1.8.1, New Australian data shows most of us have PFAS in our blood. How worried should we be?, Can your cat recognise you by scent? New study shows it’s likely, Google is going ‘all in’ on AI. It’s part of a troubling trend in big tech, ‘Not a saint’: Florence Nightingale, heroic founder of modern nursing, is humanised in a new novel,  VW State Classic 2025 - NSW High School State Titles: Results, Empowering voices: youth have their say, Fishing on Commuter Wharf: Church Point, Inaugural NSW School Sport Games, 2025 Environment Art & Design Prize Finalists announced, Opportunities: Surfrider Foundation's local June 2025 Events + Kay Cottee Women's Development Regatta at RPAYC + The 2025 CWAS "David Malin Awards";  Entries open+ More places available in innovative jobs program for women + 2025 Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards entries are now open + Big Brother Movement's Scholarships Now open for All Young Australians + Clash of the Bands at Palmy: Round 1 crews +  Inaugural Murcutt Symposium 2025, 11-13 September 2025, Financial help for young people, School Leavers Support, Word Of The Week: Gravitas, Gen Z stand to be the biggest winners from the new $3 million super tax, X-rays have revealed a mysterious cosmic object never before seen in our galaxy, Friday essay: I’m an Aboriginal farmer. But a romanticised idea of agriculture writes Black people out of the farming story, Oscar Wilde’s The Ballad of Reading Gaol is a work of art activism beloved by Banksy, Sports hernias can cause severe pain in the groin region – and footballers may be at greatest risk, Faces you hear? Dolphin ‘signature whistles’ may transmit more than just identity information, A 1980s cost-of-living crisis gave Australia a thriving arts program – could we do it again?, Friday essay: ‘the Boy-Girl’, a crime journalist and a Black activist – meet the radical ratbags of 19th-century Melbourne

          Profile of the Week A Celebration of Jack McCoy

          July 31, 1948 - May 26, 2025

          Our community is in mourning on hearing of the passing of one of our own and extends love to Jack's wife Kelly, children Cooper and Indiana, and grandchildren Makoha, Kalani, Cloudy, and Isabel.

          Jack passed peacefully at home on Monday.

          His family stated on Thursday, May 29:

          The last couple of days have been a blur however the pain has been eased by the outpouring of tributes and stories being shared. It’s a testament to the amazing life he created and a reminder of how much he touched, moved and inspired so many people from every corner of the world. We thank you all from the bottom of our hearts.

          In true Jack McCoy style, we’ll be organising a couple of celebrations in the coming months to allow those from far and wide to join us and pay their respects, beginning with a small paddle out at Scotts Head this Saturday for the local community and friends nearby.

          The main ceremony / paddle out will be held at Avalon Beach on July 5th, and then we will return to Hawaii later this year to spread his ashes.

          We invite all friends, family, the wider community and beyond to come and respectfully celebrate his amazing life.

          Dress: Wear your favourite aloha shirt.

          It’s been literally impossible to keep up with the sheer volume of posts and stories that have been shared - if you could please send any special pics and videos you may have to jackmccoyaloha@outlook.com so we can compose something special for the celebrations and our family at this time and forever.

          Love, the McCoy ohana

          Jack McCoy, who wrapped up two months of touring Blue Horizon for the 20th Anniversary of this award winning film on Saturday May 24th, reminded surf fans that it was he who fed Mark Foo the famous line, 'Eddie Would Go', and closed with a plea to go easy in the lineup, share the waves, and love your brothers and sisters - your brothers and sisters who are everywhere and present in everyone.


            A few weeks ago the news service was fortunate to run a few insights from Beverlie Farrelly on her husband Bernard, known as 'Midget', the first World Surfing Champion.

            Beverlie shared that her first home in Pittwater was when her family lived in Avalon Camping Ground after Wold War Two.  

            This prompted a few inquiries from younger readers and new arrivals to Pittwater who were not be aware that the green area behind Avalon Beach dunes was once a vey popular camping ground from the late 1920's to 1930's on, until Warringah Shire Council closed it in 1953.

            Although the closure in 1953 could be attributed to flooding that occurred in May that year, with two severe rain events within two days washing campers and their possessions along the Careel Creek into Careel Bay - and may wonder about the wisdom of allowing a camping area in what was known to be a flood zone to begin with - during the few decades it existed it provided not only a place to live for those impacted by the 1930's economic depression - when many took to canvas and caves to provide a roof for loved ones, and headed beachwards where they could fish for food - and persisted in post World War Two shortages - it also brought people to our area who stayed and not only went on to build community and serve in its volunteer organisations - such as the surf club - they helped establish the 'there's no them and us, it's just us and us looking after us' mien of the Barrenjoey community that persists today.

            Inbox News Protecting workers compensation for future generations, Captain Cook College, Site Group and Blake Wills to pay total penalties of $30.4 million for unconscionable conduct towards students, Corroboree 2000, 25 years on: the march for Indigenous reconciliation has left a complicated legacy, Is it OK to leave device chargers plugged in all the time? An expert explains, What makes somebody a narcissist? Mounting evidence suggests links to insecure attachment styles, Daylight can boost the immune system’s ability to fight infections – new study, From strip searches to sexual harassment, Australian policing has long been plagued by sexism, ‘No pain, no gain’: why some primary students are following intense study routines, Boys are more resilient than girls to school setbacks. Here’s how you can help, Landmark donation powers world-first endometriosis research institute at UNSW, Heart attack or panic attack? Why young men are calling ambulances for unmanaged anxiety, 6 ways live music could help combat the loneliness epidemic

            Food Late Autumn Tonic Soup

            The family coming home from work, school or in from the surf chilled to the bone needs a big hot bowl of something scrumptious and good for them to chase out those chills and top them to the brim with seasonal goodness. The ‘tonic’ part of this ‘adapt to suit self’ recipe lies in the base cold chaser outerers of ginger, garlic, lemon, and lemongrass. This meal takes around a half hour to do from scratch and has become a firm favourite in this household. It’s very simple but very effective for warming cold people and boosting immunity. It’s also a great way to enjoy the vegetables in season as you can adapt it to suit what’s at peak freshness. The slight lean towards a touch of Asian hot-sour-sweetness simply reflects the lighter smaller dishes we prefer ingesting at the end of day.

            Community News Vale Jack McCoy, Mona Vale Golf Course Has reopened, VW State Classic 2025 - NSW High School State Titles: Results, Celebrating 50 Years of Friendly at the Avalon Bulldogs, Fishing on Commuter Wharf: Church Point, Renewing the water main in Old Barrenjoey Road: Update, Avalon Beach Historical Society June 2025 Meeting, Marine Area Command - NSW Police Force News, More places available in innovative jobs program for women, Net-Set-Go at Avalon: Peninsula Netball Club, Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week: Pixie  +  Stormy, GrooveAble Disco for Adults + Teens with a Disability, Cremorne Point Ferry Wharf Closure, Bilgola Beach Carpark Accessible parking upgrade: Feedback Invited, Parliamentary Committee to examine early childhood education and care sector in NSW, Proposed Laneway Closure and sale of land: 20-28 Montauban Avenue, Seaforth, More funding available for war memorials in NSW, Pittwater  Sports, Social, Environment, Residents Associations and Groups

            Environment Dust storm over Pittwater, Elanora Dragon Rescue, Labor approves Woodside's North West Shelf extension: 'a prelude to approval for Woodside's Browse Project carbon bomb', Green light for gas: North West Shelf gas plant cleared to run until 2070, As record floods raged NSW Government quietly approved fifth coal mine expansion, Minns Government approves sixth coal mine expansion as NSW communities start cleanup after latest climate disaster, Pilliga Update: NSW Labor Backs Santos to drill 850 wells in Forest Of Gomeroi Country; First Nations' land rights extinguished by Court in favour of multinational’s right to mine gas - Unions vow to back fight ‘whatever the cost’, Mid North Coast Floods: “We are in a new climate reality – the Government must act”, Report: Heavy rain in May 2025 New South Wales  floods locally intensified by human-driven climate change, Fifth anniversary of Juukan Gorge disaster, Surfrider: Local June 2025 Events, 'Warringah and Pittwater Garden Heritage' Event, Whale Census Day 2025: June 29, Have your say on council's climate change policy, Council's Draft Land Dealings Policy: Have your Say, Council's Proposed Amendments to Development Control Plans (DCPs) For Low and Mid-Rise Housing: Have Your Say, Weed of the Week: Blue Spur Flower - please get it out of your garden, First Strategy to protect NSW heritage released, Sydney Water sewage licences reviews open for public consultation: Warriewood + Manly, Sydney Water Management Regulation 2025: have your say, WIRES 2025 Grants Applications Now Open, Feedback invited until June 3 on proposed shorter-term WaterNSW prices, First NSW Waste and Circular Infrastructure Plan released, Solar for apartment residents: Funding, Have your say: NSW Sustainable Program - Support to minimise the socio-economic impacts of the Restoring Our Rivers 450 GL target, Yiraaldiya National Park: Have your say - Draft Plan of Management, Conservation of inter-generational assets: Have your say, Batemans Bay Dredging: Have your say, Mine safety cost recovery regulation: have your say, NSW Government’s call to action on illegal tree clearing, First strategy to protect NSW heritage released, Dorrigo Arc Rainforest Centre environmental review available: Have your say, Earth is heading for 2.7°C warming this century. We may avoid the worst climate scenarios – but the outlook is still dire, As Australia’s carbon offset industry grapples with integrity concerns how can companies genuinely tackle climate change?, UNESCO expresses ‘utmost concern’ at the state of the Great Barrier Reef, Antarctica’s sea ice is changing, and so is a vital part of the marine food web that lives within it, Australia’s conservation efforts ignore climate risks – here are 3 fixes, Earth’s seasonal rhythms are changing; putting species and ecosystems at risk, From surprise platypus to wandering cane toads; here’s what we found hiding in NSW estuaries, This rare alpine frog is fighting against a lethal fungus – by breeding faster and faster, Faces you hear? Dolphin ‘signature whistles’ may transmit more than just identity information, Raining one week, dusty the next – how did a dust storm make it all the way to rainy Sydney?, For many island species the next tropical cyclone may be their last, Anti-environmentalism is on the rise but it’s full of contradictions, ‘1080 pest management’, Volunteers for Barrenjoey Lighthouse Tours needed, Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 Recycling Batteries: at Mona Vale + Avalon Beach, Reporting Dogs Offleash - Dog Attacks to Council, Plastic Bread Ties For Wheelchairs, Stay Safe From Mosquitoes, Mountain Bike Incidents On Public Land, Report fox sightings, Marine wildlife rescue group 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, Pittwater Reserves: histories + Walks, Birds, + 

            Children Sunday Cartoons: Summit, Net-Set-Go at Avalon: Peninsula Netball Club, 2025 Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards entries are now open, Long Steven - Rain, Curious Kids: How and why do magnets stick together? + Why do we have tonsils????? + are humans going to evolve again? + How do we smell?, Stories this week: Nobody Hugs a Cactus + 'The Three Questions' read by Meryl Streep, fun and more for you

            Youth VW State Classic 2025 - NSW High School State Titles: Results, Empowering voices: youth have their say, Fishing on Commuter Wharf: Church Point, Inaugural NSW School Sport Games, 2025 Environment Art & Design Prize Finalists announced, Opportunities: Surfrider Foundation's local June 2025 Events + Kay Cottee Women's Development Regatta at RPAYC + More places available in innovative jobs program for women + 2025 Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards entries are now open + Big Brother Movement's Scholarships Now open for All Young Australians + Clash of the Bands at Palmy: Round 1 crews +  Inaugural Murcutt Symposium 2025, 11-13 September 2025, Financial help for young people, School Leavers Support, Word Of The Week: Gravitas, Gen Z stand to be the biggest winners from the new $3 million super tax, X-rays have revealed a mysterious cosmic object never before seen in our galaxy, Friday essay: I’m an Aboriginal farmer. But a romanticised idea of agriculture writes Black people out of the farming story, Oscar Wilde’s The Ballad of Reading Gaol is a work of art activism beloved by Banksy, Sports hernias can cause severe pain in the groin region – and footballers may be at greatest risk, Faces you hear? Dolphin ‘signature whistles’ may transmit more than just identity information, A 1980s cost-of-living crisis gave Australia a thriving arts program – could we do it again?, Friday essay: ‘the Boy-Girl’, a crime journalist and a Black activist – meet the radical ratbags of 19th-century Melbourne,  local groups and services for you

            Seniors Vale Jack McCoy, Avalon Computer Pals turns 25 - Term 2 2025 classes, New research reveals ageist assumptions that “bleep” off older people, The Avon Lady, Avalon Beach Historical Society June 2025 Meeting, Letters to home care recipients to prepare for Support at Home, Celebrating 50 Years of Friendly at the Avalon Bulldogs, There’s a new COVID variant driving up infections. A virologist explains what to know about NB.1.8.1, New Australian data shows most of us have PFAS in our blood. How worried should we be?, Can your cat recognise you by scent? New study shows it’s likely, Google is going ‘all in’ on AI. It’s part of a troubling trend in big tech, ‘Not a saint’: Florence Nightingale, heroic founder of modern nursing, is humanised in a new novel,  Local services and groups for you

            Park Bench Philosophers Labor approves Woodside's North West Shelf extension: 'a prelude to approval for Woodside's Browse Project carbon bomb' + Green light for gas: North West Shelf gas plant cleared to run until 2070 + How the North West Shelf expansion risks further damage to Murujuga’s 50,000-year-old rock art

            DIY Ideas Dealing With Dampness Inside The Home

            This week a look at how to prevent and treat dampness to keep your home free from ''creeping dank'' and the problems associated with this, including how this may impact on your and your family's health. Many of us, after the last few weeks of heavy rains, may have use of these tips. 

            Prevention is more efficient than removal. The key is keeping the house dry and free of dust and oil furniture to prevent dust and dampness sticking, leading to a build-up of mould. 

            Make sure you:

            • fix leaks, including roofs and walls as well as plumbed appliances such as dishwashers
            • increase ventilation and air circulation with windows and fans
            • use extractor fans when cooking, bathing or drying laundry
            • use a dehumidifier
            • clean condensation from inner windows.

            However, with so much water even the best maintained homes will have a few problems. Open windows when it's not raining to allow breeze to run through and remove damp air. Keep your home as dust free as possible so mould spores don't have too much to latch onto. This Issue a few more tips on how to keep inside a little less damp + the Tax Time catalogue is now available

             

            Winter in pittwater

            More in this week's Pictorial -  A Few Waves for Jack

            Pittwater Online News is Published Every Sunday Morning


            Past Features  

            Archives (pre 2014)

            Pittwater Online News was selected for preservation by the State Library of New South Wales and National Library of Australia. This title is scheduled to be re-archived regularly.

            Archived Issues (2014 on) may be accessed herepandora.nla.gov.au/tep/143700

            Past Issues are also listed on site on the Community News page, by month.