On Tuesday August 19, 2025 Marine Rescue NSW announced Commissioner Alex Barrell ESM will step down from the role next month after accepting a position as Executive Director, Response, at the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA).
Lakeside park; the catchment claiming landfill areas back
''We are planning to install synthetic grass softfall beneath the existing swingset to ensure compliance with current Australian Playground Standards.We understand the swing set is valued by the local community, so we have consulted with Council’s Tree Services Team as to the best approach to maintain swings in this location without affecting the existing trees.The existing swing frame will be reused to avoid disturbance to tree roots.Synthetic grass was chosen over mulch soft fall due to the thickness (and excavation) required to achieve compliance.Works are currently planned to be undertaken in September 2025. (Weather and contractor availability permitting).''
''Works begin on Monday 4 August, and should take approximately 3 weeks to complete, weather permitting.''
.jpg?timestamp=1606328948617)
.JPG?timestamp=1743848570529)
The council stated this week it is to commence the long-awaited transformation of Thomas Stephens Reserve at Church Point, with stage 1 of works scheduled to begin in September 2025.
The upgrades, delivered as part of the Church Point Precinct Masterplan, aim to enhance the public space surrounding the Church Point shops and prioritise pedestrian safety for the community.
Mayor Sue Heins said it’s an exciting milestone for Church Point.
“The revitalisation of Thomas Stephens Reserve reflects Council’s ongoing commitment to creating vibrant, accessible spaces for everyone.
“Council continues to invest in our community spaces, ensuring it remains a welcoming and safe destination for locals and visitors alike.
“We recognise how important access to local businesses and ferry services are to the community. Council is committed to ensuring minimal disruption during construction—residents and visitors will still be able to enjoy their favourite cafes and essential transport links,” Mayor Heins said.
''A temporary gangway will ensure the ferry service continues without disruption and access to The Waterfront Café & General Store, and Pasadena Sydney will remain open. The reserve will be closed while we undertake these important works.'' the council states
.JPG?timestamp=1743849114223)
The improvements will be delivered in three stages.
Stage 1 – Marine Works
- Includes a new boardwalk outside the Pasadena Sydney and a new accessible gangway to the ferry pontoon.
- Repairs and additions to the sandstone seawall along Thomas Stephens Reserve.
.JPG?timestamp=1743849255778)
Stage 2 – Landscaping Works
- Landscaping works will begin in early 2026 and will include permeable paving, tree retention, and improved public seating and bike facilities. Completing the landscaping will finalise the Masterplan.
- Thomas Stephens Reserve will be temporarily closed during these works.
Stage 3 – McCarrs Creek Road Upgrade
- Detailed design will be presented to the Local Transport Forum in September 2025 for consideration.
- Construction will be staged and is expected to take place from early 2026.
Council's webpage states the first works will take place Monday - Friday between 7am and 5pm.
''We appreciate your patience as we deliver this important community upgrade.'' the NBC team states
An overview of the council's plan and link to their project webpage is available in the September 2024 PON report; Church Point's Thomas Stephens Reserve Landscape works
.JPG?timestamp=1600365439628)
Profile of the Week Manly Warringah Basketball Association Sea Eagles Under 14's to Represent NSW in the club's 75th Year: Fundraising Support + NBL1 East Women's Champions are Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles + Warriewood hosting Wheelchair Basketball Australia Finals Next WeekendHome courts: NBISC Stadium, Jacksons Road, Warriewood
Website: manlybasketball.com.au
Both of Manly Warringah Basketball Associations Boys and Girls Under 14s teams have qualified for Nationals, the Australian Club Championships, to be held in Perth this September.
These juniors have been working hard for this opportunity on the court and fund raising in their free time so let’s get behind them! This is more than just a competition. It’s a chance for these dedicated young athletes to test themselves against Australia’s best, grow as a team, and create memories that will last a lifetime. But getting to Perth isn’t easy—it comes with a big price tag. Flights, accommodation, uniforms, meals, and team logistics all add up quickly.
Club members, supporters and family are reaching out to our community—families, friends, local businesses, and basketball lovers—to help make this dream a reality. The boys and girls have also been fundraising locally, running bake sales at games and sausage sizzles when and where they can.
MWBA organisers (and mums) tell us: ''We’ve teamed up with the Australian Sports Foundation, so any donation over $2 is tax-deductible. Every contribution, big or small, brings us closer to the court in Perth. If you believe in supporting youth sport, teamwork, and opportunity, we’d love to have you on this journey with us.''
Girls Team Donations: https://asf.org.au/campaigns/manly-warringah-basketball-association/u14s-girls
Boys Team Donations: https://asf.org.au/campaigns/manly-warringah-basketball-association/u14-boys
The junior basketball event will see more than 700 participants from Australia's top 48 boys and girls' junior teams travel to Western Australia, along with nearly 100 officials and hundreds of family members and supporters. It is the first time Perth has hosted the six-day tournament, which will run from 27 September to 3 October 2025 at Willetton Stadium.
Having a Great 75th Year
The teams heading west are another Season highlight for the MWBA as it celebrates its 75th year. Manly Warringah Sea Eagles Women's team are champions of the NBL1 East and will now be focused on next weekend's NBL1 Nationals, taking place in Canberra from the 29th–31st of August, while 6 teams from MWBA took part in the 2025 Waratah Junior Premier League that ran last weekend with some great practice for upcoming games and great fun had by all.
Add to this, the nation's top 4 NWBL and WNWBL teams will battle it out for the Wheelchair Basketball Australia National Finals championship on their home courts from August 29-31, with the Manly Wheel Eagles among the action.
Manly Warringah Basketball Association has been catering for the basketball fraternity since its inception in 1950 and over the last 75 years has produced highly talented players many of whom have moved on to the professional ranks, representing State, Country and playing in the NBL & WNBL.
More in this week's Profile.
Middle Creek Reserve, Friday August 22, rain and mist over the water and trees
Middle Creek Reserve, Friday August 22, silt on the shoreline from flooding
Lapwing Plover nesting alongside Narrabeen Sports Academy swimming pool - she has been there for 2 weeks so far. Photos by Joe Mills, Turimetta Moods
Bayview wharf as it is at present - non-existent having being neglected to the point where it failed in 2024
Among the projects allocated funding were three Pittwater wharves. Details are:
Bayview Wharf: $594,625
Project description: Upgrade Bayview Wharf following April 2024 partial failure by providing improved access via new ramp and pontoon. Project enhances public accessibility for surrounding areas using Bayview as mainland access point. Location of site is at 33°39'34.2"S 151°17'57.0"E
$594,625 was approved by Transport for NSW, Executive Director, NSW Maritime
Date approved: August 2025. Program term: 30/06/2028
Location of the recipient: Northern Beaches Council
Mackerel Beach Wharf: $1,470,466
Project description: Upgrade Mackerel Beach Wharf with improved fixed tidal ramp following Boating Now Rd3 design completion. Project ensures disability standards compliance for Accessible Public Transport, serving growing aging community needs. Location of site is at 33°35'30.8"S 151°18'03.7"E
$1,470,466 was approved by Transport for NSW, Executive Director, NSW Maritime
Date approved: August 2025. Program term: 30/06/2028
Location of the recipient: Northern Beaches Council
Currawong Wharf Upgrade: $1,108,026
Project description: Upgrade Currawong Wharf with improved fixed tidal ramp following Boating Now Rd3 design completion. Project ensures disability standards compliance for Accessible Public Transport, serving growing aging community needs. Location of site is at 33°35'48.8"S 151°17'57.7"E
$1,108,026 was approved by Transport for NSW, Executive Director, NSW Maritime
Date approved: August 2025. Program term: 30/06/2028
Location of the recipient: Northern Beaches Council
TfNSW's Boating Now Round 3 grant program (August 2020) provided Paradise Beach Wharf Upgrade Design ($20,655). The Boating Now Program, under Round 3, also provided funds for Bilarong Reserve Boat Ramp Improvements, Narrabeen Lagoon ($60,000), Church Point Commuter Wharf Feasibility Study ($40,250), Currawong Wharf Investigation and Detailed Design ($82,500), and Mackerel Beach Wharf Investigation and Detailed Design ($70,657).
Mackerel Beach Wharf Upgrade
Council announced on Monday January 20 2025 it had secured almost $1 million in funding towards upgrades at Mackerel Beach Wharf with works expected to commence mid-year. The allocation towards the works are part of the of the Australian Government’s Thriving Suburbs Program which supports capital works projects that enhance liveability, strengthen social cohesion and support local amenity in communities across Australia's cities and suburbs. Council secured $939,305.00 under the program.
The Warringah Rugby Club, the Warringah Rats, are proud to be a 'top to bottom' Club from Juniors to Colts, Women, Seven's and Grade/Seniors. They're about rugby and community.
That’s why there’s always a HUGE cheer that goes up when their teams work on their game and build momentum that sees the WRC in the top of the tables across all grades towards the end of each Season.
That cheer went up last Saturday, August 9, as the Warringah Ratettes won the 2025 Chikarovski Cup after their win over the Hunter Wildfires Blue team at Concord Oval. A big contingent of Ratties headed west to support the girls to make sure support was LOUD.
Icing on the cake was Ratette Sharni Smale being named Grand Final Player of the Match
Sharni, co-captain of Australia's team at the 2016 Olympics that won the inaugural gold medal in the sport, has been a Season-long inspiration to her fellow team mates, supporting and encouraging younger players, and topped that off last weekend by being all over the GF game and scoring two tries for Warringah Rugby Club’s Ratettes.
On Wednesday August 13 the Ken Catchpole Medal Shute Shield Awards were announced with the Ratties again on fire with Warringah’s Wes Thomas taking out the highly coveted Ken Catchpole Medal and Coby Miln winning the Roscoe Faye Award - Highest Point Scorer.
Warringah’s First Grade coach Josh Holmes was Top 3 Coach of The Year and Robbie Miller - Top 4 Charter Hall Community Spirit Award.
Hooker Wes Thomas has been consistent across the season for the Rats and was honoured for his efforts with the 2025 Ken Catchpole Medal after helping the Rats to second on the Shute Shield ladder. Wes has not missed a match in the past two Seasons and scored six tries across this Season.
Warringah's Coby Miln secured the Roscoe Fay Trophy as the highest point scorer in the competition for the second consecutive year, having made his Super Rugby Pacific debut earlier in the year for the Western Force.
The pair will be pivotal to Warringah’s game against the Hunter Wildfires in the Preliminary Final today, Sunday August 17, at Pittwater Park, Warriewood. In fact this weekend all of Warringah’s remaining teams are playing in the 2025 Semi-Finals.
Sue Barry-Cotter, President Warringah Rugby, asked if she was pleased with the girls GF win, said:
‘’I am so very proud of our Ratettes. They are the most successful team we have in our Club of 8 teams. They had won 8 grand finals in 2003, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2012, 2013 and 2017 and now 2025 making 9 grand finals in total. The head coach Nick joined our club last year and this year his assistant Tim joined. The girls fitness has improved with their S & C J Train and I am sure this has an impact on their performance this year. Their manager Erin has been with Rats for around 30 years. Erin played herself through those successful years in the early 2000s and has remained involved with the club.
‘’The players themselves are an amazing group and very close, supporting each other and playing for each other. They are also very supportive of the club itself and the girls are often on the sidelines when the grade (men) and colts (under 20 men) play.
I have no doubt some of the girls will be at Rat Park this weekend to cheer on the grade and colts teams when they play in the semi-finals.’’
Reflecting on Warringah Rugby Club’s Season, Sue said
‘’It has been a great season, so far, for our club with all our teams in the semi finals. ‘’
Ratettes being presented with the Kerry Chikarovski Cup by the lady herself
Photos of the Ratettes grand final taken by and courtesy Debbie Benefield, Representative Team Manager at Warringah Junior Rugby Club, and Sue Barry-Cotter, President of Warringah Rugby Club.
Two people have escaped serious injury after a light aircraft landed on a Mona Vale Golf Course on Sunday afternoon, August 17.
The forced landing happened during a training flight just after 2pm on Sunday, with an instructor pilot and student on board.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has confirmed the aircraft was a Piper Cherokee.
Mona Vale Golf Course stated via instagram:
''Not your average day on the golf course!
At 2:20pm today, a light plane made an emergency landing on our course. We’re relieved to share that both people on board walked away without serious injury.
A huge credit goes to the pilot for an incredible landing that avoided greater harm, and a heartfelt thank you to the members and patrons who rushed to help without hesitation. Moments like these remind us of the strength and spirit of our community.''
Aerial footage shows the plane on the course at Mona Vale Golf Club, with visible damage to a wing, and it appears the wheels have come off.
NSW Ambulance said the pair, aged in their 50s, were treated onsite by paramedics for minor injuries, before being taken to Royal North Shore Hospital for further assessment.
One suffered minor facial injuries and both were treated onsite by paramedics.
Authorities said the cause of the crash landing was unknown at this stage, but it may have been due to possible engine trouble.
A at nearby Kitchener Park watching a soccer game when the plane came down.
"I was talking to another lady and we just saw the plane come up from the south, and then head back down to the south, and then come back up to the north and dip its wings," she told the ABC.
"I'm a lifesaver, I'm in the area, I don't know if I have to go and help, I thought there were mass casualties."
Information from Flight Tracker shows the aircraft took off from Shellharbour near Wollongong this afternoon and made a stop in Camden before continuing the flight north.
The ATSB said it was gathering evidence about the forced landing, and would conduct a formal investigation.
Photos: MVGC/via Instagram
The emergency landing is not the first our area has seen.
On November 21st 1944 Captain "Jimmy" Broadbent, of Point Piper, a famous Australian airman was piloting the plane which made a forced landing on Narrabeen Beach.
In February 1926 a plane conducting joy flights from Palm Beach flipped when it hit bumps in the sand.
Avalon Beach RSL Sub-Branch hosted a combined RSL and Community Commemoration for Victory in the Pacific Day on Friday 15th August 2025, with a Commemoration Service around the Cenotaph.
The Service, led by Vice President Tamara Sloper-Harding, OAM, with the Commemoration Address given by LCDR Shaun Mendez RAN, HAMS Waterhen, honoured those who served in this conflict and paid tribute to those who serve Australia still across the RAN, RAAF and Australian Army.
VP Day marks the day when news of Japan’s surrender signalled the end of the Second World War for Australia.
Pittwater MP Jcqui Scruby, who attended services at Narrabeen RSL village and the combined RSL Sub-Branches service at Avalon, Stated:
''August 15 2025 marks 80 years since the Victory in the Pacific and the end of WWII.
I’m forever grateful for the brave soldiers who fought and I extend my deepest thanks to the families who supported them. Their sacrifice and resilience will never be forgotten.''
A large crowd gathered beneath a bright winter sky at the Sydney Cenotaph in Martin Place to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Pacific (VP Day) on Friday 15 August.
RSL NSW hosted the commemorative service, which stood as both a formal remembrance and a moving celebration of peace, resilience, and the enduring service of Australia’s veterans.
This year’s milestone anniversary brought together members of the public, veterans’ families, community representatives, and dignitaries, alongside five of NSW’s last-surviving Second World War veterans.
Throughout the service, the historic banners of veteran associations stood proudly, a visual reminder of the links between Australia’s past and present.
The Royal Australian Navy Band Sydney played a stirring rendition of The Recessional and the national anthem as wreaths were laid to honour all who served, particularly the nearly one million Australians who enlisted between 1939 and 1945.
RSL NSW President Mick Bainbridge welcomes Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC to the VP Commemorative Service. Photo: RSL NSW
Those assembled paused to remember the more than 39,000 Australians who did not return home, the 66,000 who were wounded, and approximately 30,000 who were taken prisoner, two-thirds of whom endured captivity in the Pacific theatre.
Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC delivered the Commemorative Address, where she spoke about stories of courage, sacrifice, endurance and leadership.
“The camaraderie of soldiers, of engineers, pilots, squadron members, naval officers, seamen, shore signallers, code breakers, radar operators, nurses, medical personnel, all who worked together,” Her Excellency said.
“In many ways, it could not be better summed up than one of our centenarian veterans here today, who said ‘they were good mates, always there. We relied on one another.
“You know, no one went without the other. We’re all part of a team, you need a cook, you need an infantryman, you need everyone, everyone is needed.’”
The Leader of the Federal Opposition Sussan Ley(left) and the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (right) each laying a wreath at the 80th anniversary of VP Day. Photo: RSL NSW
The Prime Minister, The Hon. Anthony Albanese also attended the service. His VP Day 80 Years On Address:
80th anniversary of Victory in the Pacific
Address given by The Hon Anthony Albanese MP, Prime Minister of Australia
Friday 15 August 2025: Martin Place, Sydney
Eighty years ago, Prime Minister Ben Chifley began his address to the nation with a sentence of perfect simplicity – and infinite power:
Fellow citizens, the war is over.
The signing of the surrender was some weeks off, but the darkness that had engulfed the world – and made its last stand in the Pacific – was at last lifted.
Here in Sydney – as they did in towns and cities across Australia – crowds poured into the streets. They sang and danced amid a joyous blizzard of paper.
Chifley, who had seen his friend and predecessor John Curtin worn down by the gravity of war leadership, turned his words to all who had fought the darkness – but not lived to see the light.
"Let us remember those whose lives were given that we may enjoy this glorious moment and may look forward to a peace which they have won for us.
Let us remember those whose thoughts, with proud sorrow, turn towards gallant, loved ones who will not come back. … Nothing can fully repay the debt we owe them nor can history record in adequate terms their deeds".
Chifley spoke, too, of the home front, the men and women who had “performed miracles of production … so that the battle of supply could be won”.
Between us and that extraordinary day, eight decades now stretch. At this distance, the story of World War II has become set in our memories.
The Allied victory over tyranny has, in retrospect, taken on a feel of inevitability.
Part of the debt we owe to all who served our nation is to remind ourselves how close history came to taking a different path.
And to remember and honour every Australian – and every friend and every ally – who gave everything to ensure it did not.
Across Europe and North Africa.
Across Asia and the Pacific, and even across our own shores.
We think of all the stories of courage. Of resilience and exhaustion, of fear and elation, and an endless longing for the home that so many never saw again.
These are not stories rendered in bronze or marble, but written in flesh and blood.
Stories of ordinary people facing the extraordinary.
Facing loss, securing victory.
Stories of mateship tempered in the fire of combat.
We think of all we owe to every Australian who served in our name.
Every Australian who fell, and every Australian who came home but could never leave the battle.
Every family that felt the pride and weight of a loved one who put on the uniform. Every family that knew the grief that had no ending, only a beginning.
Dog attacking formerly resting seal at Long Reef Aquatic Reserve in November 2020 - a No Dogs area. Photos supplied
In the agenda for the meeting of Northern Beaches Council next Tuesday August 19, the council have recommended that a 12-month trial allowing offleash dogs on Mona Vale beach should go ahead, starting in mid-October. Councillors will vote on whether to proceed this trial.
Notification of this came via a council email addressed to our dog, Matilda, and was done this way to test out a complaint from residents that the ‘feedback during consultation’ had been turned into a rigged voting system whereby people who don’t live in the area, state or even Australia itself were supporting a push by a dog lobby group to resume a public beach unto themselves.
‘’While everyone’s entitled to an opinion, it’s important to question how much weight should be given to online feedback that doesn't come from those who actually live, work, raise families, or spend time here. Local decisions – especially those impacting our beaches, public spaces, and environment – should reflect the views of our local community, not be shaped by outside voices driving campaigns from afar.’’ one resident stated to the news service
Our DOG ‘voted’ against being mauled by dogs whose owners are too busy gazing into their phones to hold a leash attached to their pet, and because we all KNOW what happens when dogs are allowed offleash among young children and wildlife.
The council commissioned REF proclaimed there were no wildlife species to take into consideration because on the 2 days the area was monitored dogs were all over the beach chasing off anything that may have been around anyway.
However, those who have monitored the area over several years, and decades, have registered those sightings on respected platforms such as iNaturalist, e-bird, and the state government’s own systems for recording what species is where.
Both e-bird and iNaturalist record wildlife species in this vicinity, including the listed in NSW as vulnerable to extinction Australian Osprey, among the 85 species of birds that live here year-round or visit annually, while the 166 observed species of reptiles, mammals, and insects that make ecosystems thrive have not appeared in the lists of the REF.
The blue tongue lizard observed on June 21 2025 living the dunes on Mona Vale beach off Golf Avenue is just one local missed in the REF being referred to to progress this trial. It would certainly not survive being bitten and shaken by an offleash dog being allowed in its home.
Birds have been observed fishing off this part of the beach for as long as birds have gone fishing. With the times dogs will be allowed to chase them off the beach overlapping when birds wake and feed their young, how the impact on the species known to live here will be measured is not clear either.
Residents have stated there will be wildlife disturbance and the risks to nesting birds and fauna is not quantified or mitigated.
Mona Vale’s e-bird lists, including those recorded this month, is available at: ebird.org/hotspot/L2558098/bird-list
The 4 pages of Mona Vale iNaturalist records are available at: inaturalist./check_lists/4490425-Mona-Vale--NSW
Records of seals at Mona Vale are available in the NSW Government Dept. of Environment's Haul-out, Call-Out seal survey
Residents have stated the dog waste management for the trial is unclear and that the stated reliance on signage and bins lacks robust enforcement. Visitors to the beach may find they are lying in dog urine and dog faeces – the stink from the adjacent Robert Dunn Reserve, an offleash dog area, has become renowned.
Residents have also objected to the lack of equity of beach use stating non-dog users’ safety and peaceful access has been insufficiently addressed, and as has already occurred, one mum whose toddler was run over by a large dog on this beach that then peed on their towel, was told to get off the beach as ‘it is a dog beach now’.
Residents who have already encountered dogs on this beach, including the parents of another child who was attacked on this beach by a dog, suffering wounds and a lifelong fear of dogs, question the ability of the council to enforce compliance and responsible dog ownership.
The documents presented for the council meeting state; ‘’there will be regular patrols and monitoring of the off-leash area by Council’s Rangers (as resources allow)’’. The ‘as resources allow’ has seen dogs offleash in all public spaces, unchecked and unchallenged, in growing numbers, chasing off or killing wildlife, running over children and at other adults, for some time now.
%20logo%20160.jpg?timestamp=1755129818681)
Profile of the Week Peninsula Junior Cricket ClubGary Searles, Club Treasurer and Registrar, states;
Peninsula Cricket Club is a large junior cricket club covering from Palm Beach through to Narrabeen.
Our Cricket Blast season commences Oct 15 ( Avalon), Oct 17 (Warriewood) and Oct 18 (Warriewood). Cricket Blast is our entry level cricket program designed to teach the kids the basics of the game before tackling competitive Cricket from U10s.
Competitive Cricket, for U12s and up (we go through to U16s) commences September 13 2025.
The Girls U11s / U13s and Boys U10s and U11s start October 18.
Registrations are now open at: www.peninsulacricketclub.com.au/registration
We are the only Cricket Club in the Barrenjoey Peninsula catchment area - Palm Beach to Narrabeen – and we are Not for Profit. Our primary focus is the children's welfare as they develop their skills, passion and a lifelong love for the wonderful game of cricket.
We have Cricket skill programs, designed to get kids into Cricket - so think Kindy, Year 1 and 2 - available at 3 locations. The cricket skills program runs at Avalon (Wednesday), Warriewood (Friday evening), Warriewood (Saturday morning).
We have modified games, so no helmets, pads etc. These re-designed for children for prior to getting into competition Cricket, for Years 3 and 4.
Then we also offer Competitive Cricket for U10s and Up for boys. We have 3 girls teams in the U11s, U13s and U15s – and are always wanting to build up more girls playing.
More details are on our Website.
Bush Turkey taking a stroll near Irrawong Falls, Warriewood. Photo: Joe Mills
Turimetta Beach Boulders Falling: 2m of Erosion
Regular contributing photographer Joe Mills visited Turimetta Beach on Tuesday August 5 and Friday August 8 this past week, and has recorded some rockfalls along the cliff faces.
Joe said on Saturday:
''Due to all the recent rains and heavy swells the beach at the northern end was severely eroded at the end of this week, for about 2m of sand. This is mostly at the northern half of the beach near the steps. It was very noticeable.
As well, there were a lot more big boulders (some up to 1.5m size) scattered along the beach, which fell from the moist cliff tops.''
In recent storm events, and smaller rockfalls, Joe has been concerned for the safety of a gentleman he calls 'the hermit' who camps under and against the shelter of the rockface - you can see the blue of his tent in some of Joe's photos from Friday:
mid-beach erosion - August 8 2025
mid-beach erosion - August 8 2025
Turimetta beach erosion from storms - August 8 2025
Turimetta erosion - August 8 2025
Council currently has the beach listed as 'closed' due to storm swells and the absence of patrols of lifesavers on this beach.
screenshot from council's Turimetta beach webpage, Saturday August 9 2025
Coastal erosion is the loss of land along the shoreline due to the natural removal of sand, vegetation and other features associated with changing wave and water conditions. During severe storms, coastal erosion can happen rapidly, potentially putting people, properties, and infrastructure in danger.
Climate change is likely to increase coastal erosion over time, as the intensity of storms increase and sea levels rise. Infrastructure like roads, access to beaches and connection to utilities are likely to be impacted during these events.
Weather conditions leading to coastal erosion in NSW are typically associated with intense low pressure systems off the coast which generate large waves and higher sea levels. These low pressure systems include tropical cyclones, ex-tropical cyclones and east coast lows. The impacts in NSW of winds, flooding and coastal erosion associated with Cyclone Alfred earlier this year are likely to increase in frequency in the future.
The extent of coastal erosion can be influenced by a range of factors, both natural and unnatural, including:
- Tides
- Waves
- Water currents
- Runoff
- Headlands
- Storms
- Vegetation
- Building and development
- Coastal management activities
However, what's been happening at Turimetta in recent months and days warrants closer scrutiny.
On Friday August 8, another long-term regular at the news service, John Illingsworth, released 'Teetering Turimetta', a film focussed on the cliffs of this beach between North Narrabeen and Warriewood.
John says in 'Teetering Turimetta':
''Turimetta Headland in NSW in 2015 is a towering heap of faulted, fractured Newport Formation sandstones and shales, capped at its highest point with a tiny remnant of Hawkesbury Sandstone, all of which rests upon the purplish Bald Hill Claystone unit that you can see at low tide.
In 2021 Turimetta Headland’s cliffs were videoed from a drone, part of a record of the coastline from North Narrabeen to Barrenjoey. This publicly available footage is a baseline against which future geomorphic events - rockfalls in particular - can be identified and measured.
In this 2021 screen capture near where Mitchell showed us the piece of coal, we can see 2 joint blocks missing, plucked from the basement rock by wave action. But by 2025 five blocks are missing, so 3 more were removed in just 3 years, a rate of around one block per year and a steady undercutting of the cliff above.
If we freeze Michell as he walks by this boulder, we can see in the middle distance a pile of rocks, an early rockfall, indicated by the arrow. Remember, this is 2012. In this 2025 picture we see that same fall, pretty well unchanged. We can clearly see that the edges of the boulders are all sharp, unworn by time. We cannot be specific other than to say this fall is also quite recent, though before our record. But when the camera pans left it shows something that wasn’t there in 2012 – a very large rotational rockfall of perhaps 200m3. Now, this fall is also visible in the 2015 drone footage here. So this rockfall dates between August 2012 and December 2015. Rockfalls are most likely to occur during inclement weather when rainfall is heavy and seas high. Good times to stay away!
Which brings us to the sewer outfall where fishermen and women congregate. Construction of the outfall was completed by about 1973. So, the rocks you can see here in 2021 must have fallen later than 1973 because they rest on the concrete covering the sewer. It’s also pretty clear that all these rocks and boulders comprise a multi-fall event which is, perhaps, ongoing.
Full transcript and more HERE - John's earlier film:
$446,000+ in funding for Pittwater Community Projects
Independent Member for Pittwater Jacqui Scruby has announced over $446,000 for local schools, sports clubs, and community services through the latest round of the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership (CBP) Program.
“These grants will help supercharge our amazing community groups. Practical funding for infrastructure and equipment for the services, public schools, sports clubs, and charities so our community can thrive,” said Ms Scruby. “Whether it's shade for kids at school, boats for inclusive sport, or upgrades to rescue equipment, these projects deliver a tangible boost for Pittwater.”
“This funding reflects the hard work done by community groups to meet grant requirements and provide services for the community.
I’m proud to support their efforts and will continue fighting to ensure Pittwater gets funding from all available sources.”
Funding has been distributed across a range of grassroots organisations, including:
- Narrabeen Sports High School P&C – $100,000 for community hall refurbishment
- Avalon Public School P&C – $100,000 for the Nura Djaroba playground upgrade
- Easylink Community Services – $31,552 for an accessible transport van in conjunction with Michael Regan, MP for Wakehurst, and Matt Cross, MP for Davidson, so $94 656 in total
- Marine Rescue Broken Bay – $35,549 for vital engine replacements in conjunction with Michael Regan, MP for Wakehurst, so $71,098 in total
- Barrenjoey High School P&C – $51,122 for shaded student outdoor seating
- Terrey Hills Public School P&C – $34,000 for a shade sail project
- Elanora Heights Public School P&C – $30,000 for sunshade over handball courts
- Sailability NSW – $18,919 to refurbish vessels for disabled sailing
- Careel Bay Tennis Club – $14,000 for court drainage and sun protection
- Warriewood Boardriders Association – $11,379 for a portable storage trailer
- Narrabeen Tigers Junior Rugby Club – $10,000 for an electronic scoreboard
- Bei Loon Dragon Boat Club – $10,250 for a new community dragon boat
“There was strong demand for this round of funding, with many great applications from across Pittwater. While it’s tough for those who missed out, I’m thrilled for the successful recipients. The next round opens later this year, and my office will be running online and in-person workshops. Keep an eye on my website grants page for updates.” Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby said
Manly Community Groups Receive Big Funding Boost
The electorate of Manly has secured $446,739 in funding for a total of fifteen projects through the NSW Government’s 2025 (CBP) Community Building Partnership Program.
Member for Manly James Griffin said that the funding will deliver much-needed improvements and upgrades to local facilities, including a new emergency response vehicle and infrastructure improvements for local surf clubs, enhanced learning areas at schools, an upgraded clubhouse and new equipment at various local sporting clubs, and new sailing vessels and infrastructure at local sailing clubs and not-for-profits.
“This is fantastic news for Manly,” Mr Griffin said.
“This grassroots funding will directly help create a more vibrant and inclusive local community with positive social and recreational outcomes.
“I congratulate all the organisations that were successful in their application and look forward to seeing how these projects make a real difference for improving participation and enhancing community groups and wellbeing in the area.”
The full list of successful projects in the Manly electorate for the 2025 round are:
- Manly Cove Launch Club - $16,168 to repair roof and guttering, balcony and rusted handrails
- Freshwater Surf Life Saving Club - $10,000 to replace furniture for members areas
- North Harbour Sailing Club - $30,000 for roof replacement and related maintenance works
- Saltwater Veterans Sailing Project - $45,000 to contribute towards the purchase of a dedicated sail training vessel to support current and former ADF Members and their families
- Dee Why Surf Life Saving Club - $40,000 to enhance Dee Why SLSC’s First Aid Room and improve its medical response capabilities
- Sailability NSW - $20,000 to purchase a new sailing vessel and dingy to increase disability participant numbers
- Balgowlah North Public School P&C - $15,000 for a Year 6 outdoor learning area
- Manly Yacht Club - $41,200 to replace old boat cranes and improve safety
- Manly Freshwater Catholic Parish - $11,900 to replace old chairs in the Parish Hall
- North Steyne Boardriders Club - $14,000 to replace club equipment trailer
- Manly Life Saving Club - $45,371 to help fund the purchase of a 4WD emergency response vehicle
- Seaforth Football Club - $18,875 to purchase additional training equipment and improve development courses and participation
- Manly Savers Rugby Club - $62,865 to address drainage and improve infrastructure at Keirle Park, and transform the clubhouse into a multi-use venue benefitting the club and the broader community
- Manly 16ft Skiff Sailing Club - $65,000 to purchase new Manly Junior sailing dinghies
- Balgowlah Heights Public School P&C - $11,360 to install new benches to support the school’s Peer Support Program
The Community Building Partnership program has funded more than 22,400 community projects since it commenced in 2009.
Grants between $10,000 and $100,000 were available to not-for-profit organisations and councils, with up to $450,000 allocated per electorate.
Applications for next year’s Community Building Partnership program will open shortly. For more information and announcements, please visit the Community Building Partnership website: nsw.gov.au/cbp
Residents have reported seals hauling out during recent storm activities, with the latest being monitored at Newport beach by ORRCA volunteers. Others have seen another at Dee Why.
ORRCA states:
''We’re currently receiving a high number of calls regarding seal haul-outs, a normal and natural behaviour for these beautiful marine mammals. Along our east coast, it’s common to see Australian Fur Seals and Long-Nosed Fur Seals at this time of year.
Seals come ashore to rest, recover, or simply soak up some sun. While it might be tempting to get closer, it’s important to give them plenty of space. They don’t need to be encouraged back into the water. In fact, coming ashore is a healthy part of their routine.
While they might look like “sea puppies”, seals are wild animals - unpredictable, reactive, and capable of carrying zoonotic diseases.
In most cases, they just need time and space to rest. But if a seal appears unwell, injured, or is in a high-traffic area (like a place where dogs are allowed on a beach), please call our 24/7 Rescue Hotline on (02) 9415 3333. Our trained responders will assess the situation and provide support as required.''
The NSW Department of Planning and Environment states that if a seal comes towards you, you must move back to the minimum approach distance.
The Department's rules are:
Approaching a seal when it is in the water
Seals are agile swimmers with strong flippers. When a seal is in the water you must keep at least:
- 10 metres away from the seal
- 80 metres from a seal pup
- 100 metres for a drone
Approaching a seal when it is hauled out on land
Seals haul out to rest after foraging at sea. If a seal feels threatened, it may show aggression by yawning, waving its front flipper or head, or calling out. Seals are very agile and can move fast on land, using all 4 limbs to run. When a seal is hauled out on the land you must keep at least:
- 40 metres away from the seal
- 80 metres from a seal pup
- 100 metres away from the seal for a drone.
Vessels watching seals resting on the rocky shore must also keep back 40 metres or 80 metres if a pup is present. Limit the time you spend watching because it can be stressful for them. It is likely you are not the only vessel to approach them that day.
The news service would also suggest you contact council as they will want to monitor what's going on and work in concert with any registered carers to ensure the safety of any of the seals that live here as well as residents and visitors.
Haul-out, Call-Out seal survey
The NSW Department of the Environment is interested in understanding where Australian and New Zealand fur seals are hauling out along the NSW coastline.
Haul-out, Call-out is a place to report your fur seal sightings as part of the Seabirds to Seascapes Project.
How you can help
As a citizen scientist, your participation in the survey to identify key hotspot locations for these fur seals is crucial. Here’s why:
- Conservation efforts: Australian fur seals are listed as vulnerable under the Biodiversity Conservation Act. By getting involved, you directly contribute to safeguarding their habitats and populations.
- Data collection: your sightings will complement drone surveys along the NSW coastline. This data provides insights into fur seal population densities and their preferred breeding habitats, informing marine conservation initiatives in New South Wales.
- Long-term survival: understanding fur seals’ health and breeding behaviours is critical. Your reports help researchers develop targeted conservation measures to support their populations.
- Mitigating conflicts: by understanding their habitat preferences and behaviours, we can reduce disturbances and minimise negative interactions between humans and seals, promoting coexistence in shared environments.
Your role matters. As a citizen scientist, your contributions directly protect and conserve Australian and New Zealand fur seals and their marine habitats. Join them in making a difference for these vulnerable species and the marine ecosystems they inhabit.
Seals are vital to healthy marine ecosystems, but they face growing pressures from human activity. The survey helps inform critical marine conservation initiatives in New South Wales by learning more about where seals gather and how they live. This information is crucial for effectively managing fur seal populations, including mitigating risks of human and seal interactions.
Readers may remember the seal pup rescued at Newport and named 'Narrang' which was rehabilitated by Taronga Zoo, and re-released, returned to our area in October 2023.
Go to the Haul-out, Call-Out seal survey to record the seals you see on our beaches.
You can also see on this map the amount of seals that live in our area and visit every beach along the Barrenjoey to Manly peninsula.
Dog attacking formerly resting seal at Long Reef Aquatic Reserve in November 2020 - a No Dogs area. Photos supplied
Profile of the Week Dr Gordon Stokes, MB MS MD, FRACP, Dip Thl, 1935–2025
Park Bench Philosophers Roads To Pittwater: the Sandspit Punt and Spit Bridge - With Joe Mills and friends taking a trek along an old way from Manly to Mosman, how about a look back at pre-Spit Bridge times? From the 2018 'Roads To Pittwater' series
Inbox News Mona Vale Hospital’s Urgent Care Centre Becomes first in NSW To Roll Out ECAT, How two transplants gave Josh a second chance at life, Celebrating Excellence at AMA25: AMA Awards recognise outstanding contributions to healthcare, Research to improve palliative care to commence at NSW universities, What to say and how to help if someone close to you has attempted suicide, Electricity industry on notice as more households invest in subsidised batteries and solar: ACCC, Getting young and old people to dance together boosts health and reduces age discrimination – new research, NSW Government establishing independent commissioner to advocate for victim survivors of crime, Plastics and human health: what’s at stake in the global treaty talks in Geneva, Why alcohol policies miss those at the highest risk from drinking, Trump and Kennedy are destroying global science; Even Einstein questioned facts – but there’s a method to it, Tiny homes could help ease the housing crisis but councils are dragging their feet, Foreign interference can be hidden in plain sight; Here’s how countries use ‘sharp power’ in Australia, Why Gareth Ward’s challenge to the power to expel him from the NSW parliament failed, How many of Australia’s 2.2 million property investors would lose out under a new plan to curb negative gearing?, How do you feel about doing exams? Our research unearthed 4 types of test-takers, Financial stress is on the rise in Australia. Here’s what to do if money worries are affecting your mental health
Events Zonta NB's 50th Anniversary Dinner, Author Talks, Sports, Music, Markets, Social Groups, + Heaps more on!
Food Pumpkin Season: Ideas for the Lunchbox and at Home
It's Pumpkin Season - these delightful globes of orange and gold crops are coming in and at $6 a whole pumpkin, the price, weight and taste proves they're fresh from the best fields of Australia. We bought a whole one the other day and regularly roast off extra junks when cooking some in the oven as it makes a great alternative spread to butter, or any other condiment, when cold.
During past pumpkin seasons we've shared recipes for whole pumpkin stuffed with rice and chorizo, the famous pumpkin scone Australia is renowned for, soup, muffin and pie recipes, and even a few ideas from days of yore.
This Issue we'd like to share a few more inspirations for those who, like us, buy the whole pumpkin as they know there will be ideas enough to indulge in this great for you at this Winter vegetable.
Community News NSW Health to further empower parents + carers to raise concerns, Council's parking permits going digital, Wildlife Hungry: Moving to road edges to feed - Please Slow down, Busking for Change 2025, WaterNSW Announces 300 Employees to Go, Man charged with over 15 break/enter offences- Northern Beaches PAC, Mona Vale Hospital’s Urgent Care Centre Becomes first in NSW To Roll Out ECAT, Pittwater RSL: new Developments, Letters to the Editor: Woollies Soft Plastic Recycling Trial at Avalon + Great Town Planning, Scruby Secures Hold On Speed Limit Decrease + Bends Resurfacing, Avalon Sailing Club Open for Registration, $1 million to establish independent NSW recreational fishing peak body, Two Petitions Tabled: NBC Rate Rise, E-Bikes Safety Changes Uptick: Scruby, Working With Children legislation introduced to keep children safe, Community Forum on E-Bike Use, Inclusive Employment Australia, School Bus Cancellations: Scruby Seeks answers, Sports Club Grant Applications now open, Barrenjoey High School Fundraiser: Trivia Night, NSW Government to increase wheelchair accessible taxi availability, Pittwater Offshore Community Awards Black Tie Gala, Disability Discrimination Act Review – Issues Paper: Have your say, Have your say on NSW’s anti-discrimination laws, Beach Without Sand Odds + Ends Sale, ID Support Bill passes NSW Parliament, NSW Government to strengthen protections against image-based abuse, Roadworks, Changed traffic conditions on Barrenjoey Road Palm Beach, New grant program to address gender-based violence open, Get ready for NSW Women’s Week 2026, Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week: Willa + Kim, Underwater Photography Contest returns, Pittwater Sports, Social, Environment, Residents Associations and Groups, Pittwater Offshore Newsletter
Environment Turimetta Beach Boulders Falling: 2m of Erosion, Wildlife Hungry: Moving to road edges to feed - Please Slow down, Seals Hauling Out Along Our Beaches: Register these on the NSW Haul-out, Call-Out seal survey, Congratulations Save Manly Dam Catchment Committee!, Friends of Bongin Bongin Bay 2025 AGM + Free Screening of Ocean with David Attenborough: August 20, IPART Draft Report on the review of prices for Greater Sydney from 1 October 2025: Have your say, 622kg of Rubbish Collected from Local Beaches, Coastal and Estuary Grants Program, EPA tackling greenhouse gas emissions with new licensee requirements: Have your say, $1.2 million on offer to crack down on illegal dumping, $1 million to establish independent NSW recreational fishing peak body, Thousands of tonnes of soft plastics diverted from landfill as Coles and Woolworths meet EPA Clean-Up orders, The final jewels in Sydney Harbour’s ‘green necklace’ added to the NSW State Heritage Register, Three stations added to the National Park network in north west NSW, Notice of 1080 Poison Baiting, Have your say on changes gas and pipeline regulations and guidelines for NSW, Changes are brewing in the Indian Ocean. Does this mean Australia should get ready for a soggy Spring?, World’s biggest coral survey confirms sharp decline in Great Barrier Reef after heatwave, These students cut air pollution near their schools – by taking aim at their parents’ idling cars, 5 ingenious things trees do that human designers can learn from, Economists want a carbon price comeback – but does Australia have the political courage?, From ‘reef-friendly’ sunscreens to ‘sustainable’ super, greenwashing allegations are rife. Here’s how the claims stack up, Australia can hit an 85% emissions cut by 2035 – if government and business seize the moment, Climate-fuelled El Niño events are devastating butterflies, beetles and other tropical insects, Perito Moreno became the world’s first superstar glacier – but now it’s set to disappear, Body rolls and headbanging: we found cockatoos have 30 different dance moves, NSW Gov. delivers world-first foot and mouth vaccine to protect livestock industries & food supply, Foot-and-mouth disease would devastate Australia’s graziers if it got in. Here’s how a new vaccine might help, Solar for apartment residents: Funding, 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 on the Central Coast, Watch out - shorebirds about, Possums In Your Roof?: do the right thing, Aviaries + Possum Release Sites Needed, Bushcare in Pittwater: where + when, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment Activities, Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations in Pittwater, Ringtail Posses, Pittwater Reserves, Environment History insights + Walks, Birds, +
Aquatics Mapping microplastics in 120 NSW Estuaries
Children Sunday Cartoons: Minions Try to catch a Dinosaur Baby, Young Writers Competition Winners Announced, Young Filmmakers Comp., Underwater Photography Contest, Cricket Season, Body rolls and headbanging: we found cockatoos have 30 different dance moves, Curious Kids: Why do we sneeze? Why do your eyes close? + If everyone in the world turned on the lights at the same time, what would happen? + How is the Sun burning? + Why are people colour blind? + How do we smell?, Stories this week: this Book is Viral + 'When a Dragon Moves In' read by Mark Duplass, + local fun and clubs for you
Youth NSW Government launches new Office for Youth, Young Writers Competition Winners Announced, Manly Big Wave: Gnarliest Day of the August Swell 2025!, Opportunities: Free science spree sparks inspiration for next generation + Skills Minister puts apprenticeship and traineeship reform front and centre: Feedback Invited + Young Filmmakers Comp. + Underwater Photography Contest + Open Mic at Palm Beach, Financial help for young people, School Leavers Support, Word Of The Week: Perfidious, Body rolls and headbanging: we found cockatoos have 30 different dance moves, ‘Bookshelf wealth’ is a TikTok trend, Dua Lipa’s reading Helen Garner. But books have signified taste for centuries, Spy novelist Stella Rimington, the first female head of MI5, was a ‘true trailblazer’, Rewatching Picnic at Hanging Rock at 50: an unsettling portrayal of place, silence and disappearance, This stone tool is over 1 million years old. How did its maker get to Sulawesi without a boat?, Viral ‘kettlebell challenge’ could do you more harm than good – here’s why, What would a climate model made from music sound like? This team of artists and scientists has created one, Why do some clothes shrink in the wash? A textile scientist explains how to ‘unshrink’ them, Your phone is covered in germs: a tech expert explains how to clean it without doing damage, local services for you
Seniors Vale Col Joye, Online Registration FREE Scams Awareness Training: Aug. 22, Aged care service delivery: Senate Inquiry: feedback invited, Walk & Talk: Narrabeen, AvPals Term 3, Winners Announced in the 2025 Ageing Australia You are ACE! Awards, MWC Anniversray Concert: Aug. 17, The key to a centenarian’s long life may be their superhuman ability to avoid disease – new research, 17 older Australians die from falls every day. Here are 5 things you can do to reduce your risk, Can music be good company? Research shows it makes our imagination more social, I write James Bond novels – here’s why Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight will bring a crackling new intensity to 007, Local Groups and Services for you
Pictures Manly to Spit Walk by Joe Mills
DIY Ideas Father's Day 2025: A few Gift Ideas to Spoil the best Dad in the world
Father's Day is celebrated Sunday September 7 in 2025.
This year the great team at Johnson Bros Mitre 10 have a special bonus that may sweeten the mix.
For your chance to Win a $200 Mitre 10 Gift Card* for Dad or the special man in your life, delivered just in time for Father’s Day, spend $60 instore or online, and automatically go into the draw for a chance to WIN! It’s that easy.
The competition started Friday 1st August and runs to Sunday 24th August 2025, so there is plenty of time to find that special gift that will help dad in the garden this Spring, or for those jobs he's been planning to get to.
This Issue a few ideas on how to spoil dad rotten on Father's Day - some you can make yourself and some you can get from your local Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 store - there's gift ideas for every budget.
Pittwater residents have called the way the council has killed a tree community members stood vigil around for weeks a year ago authoritarian and lacking transparency.
Residents of the street were informed in a letter dated July 23, two days out from Tree Day 2025, that the tree, a flooded gum, was judged to be at risk of dropping branches.
Exactly 7 days later, July 30, the trucks rolled into Ruskin Rowe again to cut down T2 and prune T1.
The street was closed in its entirety, and police tried to move Canopy Keepers members, who were peacefully observing, and other residents on.
screenshot from CK video of the Ruskin Rowe gum tree trunk
Photo: Manly Warringah Sapphires
Profile of the Week Manly Warringah Netball Association to Celebrate 60 years + Manly Warringah Sapphires Opens Wins 2025 Grand Final at Ken Rosewall ArenaWebsite: www.mwna.com.au
Manly Warringah Netball Association (MWNA) is one of the largest and most vibrant netball communities in New South Wales. The Association had 17 affiliated local clubs and over 3000 players for its Winter 2025 Season.
With a rich history spanning over 60 years, MWNA is dedicated to fostering a love for netball at all levels—from grassroots to representative competitions.
The association proudly supports thousands of players, coaches, and umpires across all ages and skill levels, providing opportunities for development, teamwork, and community spirit. Whether you're new to the game or striving for elite performance, MWNA offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone to enjoy netball.
The Manly Warringah Netball Association (MWNA) is about celebrating Community in Community Sport.
With the Manly Warringah Sapphires playing in the 2025 Grand Final this Sunday, August 3, the MWNA Semi Finals and Grand Finals to be played Saturday August 16 and Saturday August 23 respectively, and a 60th Anniversary Dinner and Celebration on Friday August 8, and their Spring 2025 Competition registrations now open, a few details on the Association and the Sapphires pathway to this year's Grand Final runs this Issue.
Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby said:
“As a local MP and mum of a dedicated young netballer, I’ve seen first-hand the energy, joy, and community spirit that Manly Warringah Netball Association brings to the Northern Beaches. From early morning warmups to nail-biting finals, MWNA is where confidence is built, friendships are made, and life lessons are learned.
For over 60 years, it’s been the beating heart of weekend sport, and I’m proud to support everything it stands for – especially as we cheer on the Sapphires in this Sunday’s Grand Final. Good luck, girls!"
First one in
Turimetta beach - sunrise fisherman
Turimetta beach sunrise - looking north. All photos by Joe Mills, more in this week's Pictorial.