Pittwater Online News

Australian Sailing Awards 2025 for NSW/ACT: RPAYC Wins Club of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Youth Sailor of The Year - Lifetime Achievement Award for Ted Anderson + Club of the Year (Cat. B) is Saltwater Veterans

A record number of nominations were submitted by clubs and members from across New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory of the 2025 Australian Sailing Awards for these states. These included sailors who are performing at a high level around Australia and internationally, volunteers who put in incredible hours to help their club community, professionals who work in this ancient and still modern sport, and promoters who ensure that sailing is seen and made accessible for all.  

Australian Sailing thanked the members of the NSW & ACT Regional Advisory Committees who took the time to review and judge the award nominations.  

Winners for all categories were announced at the NSW & ACT Sailing Awards Presentation held at St George Sailing Club, on Saturday evening 20th September. 

Among those announced as Winners were four recognitions for one of Australia's oldest proponents of sailing, Pittwater’s Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club: the legend known as one of the nicest men around, Ted Anderson (ably assisted always by his wife Sue, a tireless volunteer herself), Vice Commodore Julia Hornsby and the 'he can sail anything, very very well' young man who just keeps winning, Louis Tilly.

All up seven RPAYC Members were announced as finalists at the beginning of this month, while the club awarded the Category B Club of the Year is one they have supported since he get-go: the Saltwater Veterans.

Female Sailor of the Year - Natasha Bryant 
Youth Sailor of the Year  - Louis Tilly 
Volunteer of the Year  - Julia Hornsby 
SheSails Award  - Emily McCutcheon+  Katie Spithill 
Lifetime Achievement Award  - Ted Anderson 
Club of the Year – Category A   - Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club

This team epitomise the club's Vision, Mission and Values. 

Further local Finalists were named as Manly 16ft Skiff Sailing Club and Narrabeen Lakes Sailing Club in the two Club of the Year categories, which speaks to the level of community spirit, sharing of knowledge and skills, and simply enjoying sharing the love of being on the water sailing that lives here.

The Australian Sailing Awards are the peak awards for the sport of sailing in Australia and will act as a national celebration of sailing and its significance at a local, state, and national level.

This year sees the introduction of the Innovation of the Year Award, which expands the criteria of the previous Sustainability Award to include the outstanding technology, sustainability, programs, products, boat design and concept advancements contributing to a more innovative sailing industry.

Nominations will first be judged for their relevant State Awards, with the winners set to be announced throughout September and August. The winning nominations from the State Awards will then be put forward as nominees to the judging panel of the National Australian Sailing Awards, with national winners to be announced at the Australian Sailing Awards and Hall of Fame Inductions Dinner in Sydney on Friday 14 November.

MORE HERE

Irukandji's Crowned World Champions at the 2025 ISA World Surfing Games

Australia was crowned Team World Champion at the 2025 Surf City El Salvador ISA World Surfing Games (WSG) on Monday September 15 AEDT. The ninth straight day of pumping waves in Surf City El Salvador saw La Bocana offering up powerful four-to-six-foot peaks to decide the medallists.

Dane Henry (AUS) and Janire Gonzalez-Etxabarri (ESP) won the men’s and women’s individual gold medals, respectively. Gonzalez-Etxabarri’s victory marked the first-ever WSG gold for Spain.

Henry’s win, alongside bronze medals for Morgan Cibilic (AUS) and Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS), secured the team victory for Australia. The medallists were complemented by Ellie Harrison (AUS) in fifth, Milla Brown (AUS) in 11th before her withdrawal due to injury, and Callum Robson (AUS) in 19th.

Milla sustained damage to her MCL and had to withdraw from the event, which was, as she stated ''pretty tough but lots of learning, onto the next!!!''

Bungan Boardriders' Milla Brown during Day 5 surfing. Photo: ISA / Sean Evans

Already the most successful nation in WSG history, Australia broke a 14-year drought to win their sixth team gold medal this year, and their 16th WSG team medal overall. Having claimed four of their six team silver medals in the intervening years, the team was thrilled to once again stand atop the podium. As the reigning Team World Junior Champion, this years' win backs up their 2024 junior victory, also won in Surf City El Salvador.

See 2024 report: The Irukandji's Win Eighth Team World Championship And Two Individual Gold Medals At The 2024 ISA World Junior Surfing Championship

Dane Henry (AUS) became the first man in the modern era to win the WSG as the reigning ISA World Junior Champion. The 19-year-old follows in the footsteps of Tom Curren (USA), who won the 1982 WSG while still holding the junior crown from 1980. Only two other men — Gabriel Medina (BRA) and Jordy Smith (RSA) — have won gold medals at both the World Junior Surfing Championship (WJSC) and the WSG.

“That is a crazy club to be a part of,” Henry said. “The whole time I had belief in myself that I could do it. My surfing’s been feeling spot on. I really wanted to really shine in the Final and I’m really glad that I got the opportunity to do that. Competing against guys like Kauli Vaast, Morgan [Cibilic] and Douglas [Silva], you’ve got to pull out the best. I have a really special connection with this place and this competition now. I felt really in my element, which definitely pushed me through and helped me get the win.”

Opening his Final with a massive full-rotation aerial, Henry locked in an 8.67 before backing it up with a 9.50 on a long right-hander at La Bocana. His combined heat score of 18.17 put him beyond reach of his opponents and etched his name into surfing history.

Utilising a similar formula to his 2024 WJSC victory at the same location, Henry attacked the La Bocana rights, opening the men’s Final with a lofty full rotation that earned an 8.67. He soon added exceptional variety on a long right for a 9.50, building a massive 18.17 heat total that left Morgan Cibilic (AUS) and Douglas Silva (BRA) needing a two-wave combination. 

Four further excellent scores were posted over the 30-minute match, three of them from Kauli Vaast (FRA), the only surfer able to challenge Henry’s lead with a single wave. The Olympic Champion’s vertical backhand attack came closest to Henry’s numbers, but the Australian stayed out of reach, even as Vaast landed a backhand full rotation to close the Final.

“This win means everything,” Henry said. “To represent Australia and stand on top with this team is the best feeling in the world. We believed in each other all week, and to bring it home for the Irukandjis is so special.”

Dane Henry, Team Australia / Photo: Sean Evans

Veteran and 2025 Team Captain, Sally Fitzgibbons, continued to build on her remarkable career, adding a sixth ISA World Surfing Games medal — a bronze — to her unprecedented haul of 4X golds and 1X previous bronze. Fitzgibbons remains one of the most winningest surfers in ISA Surfing history, and reinforces her reputation as the anchor of the Irukandjis.

"Our team really connected through our values of how much it means to us to represent our nation. Every individual athlete, coach, and staff member woke up every day ready to take on the challenge. Out of every ISA medal I've won, this is the one that stands out. I couldn't be prouder, and this memory will stay with me forever." Sally Fitzgibbons said

MORE HERE

Zonta Northern Beaches Celebrates 50 Years Of Service and Advocacy: President's Address

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches members at the 50 Years Celebration. Photo: Michael Mannington OAM

The Zonta Club of Northern Beaches celebrated 50 years of Service and Advocacy at a special dinner held Monday September 15 for members and guests. 

This Issue's Profile of the Week

The Feedback period, which opened on Wednesday September 10 this week, and closes on Wednesday September 24, was submitted to the council on August 5, following a pre-lodgement meeting held with the council in December 2024.

The webpage lists 22 documents for residents to read.

The documents tabled state that at completion of the rezoning process, it is anticipated that the land will contribute 536 new dwellings, comprising 133 detached dwellings along the perimeter, 210 terrace and manor houses, and 193 apartments across four lots. 

The Planning Proposal was prepared on behalf of Mirvac Homes (NSW) Pty Ltd (Mirvac) and Ingleside Wilga Developments Pty Ltd (Truslan) in relation to a landholding within the 'Wilga Wilson Precinct' (the Site). Truslan controls 3 sites, Mirvac 4, alongside 11 others, privately owned, and one owned by Serbian Orthodox Church St Sava. Out of the 28.8ha in the Precinct, Mirvac and Truslan control a combined area of 14.248ha. 

Mullet creek traverses the site from west to east.

Current land uses on the site are a variety or rural and horticultural uses as well as the St Sava Church on Wilson street and seniors housing at the south-western perimeter.

The Planning Proposal submitted to the council to accompany the request to amend the LEP seeks to apply to R3 (medium density) zoned land in the Wilga Wilson Precinct only to adopt revised lot sizes for different dwelling types specific to the Precinct, as follows: 

• Attached dwellings – A maximum of 1 dwelling per 180m2 of site area. 
• Multi dwelling housing A maximum of 1 dwelling per 180m2 of site area. 
• Semi detached dwellings A maximum of 1 dwelling per 180m2 of site area. 

The proposed LEP amendments will be accompanied by a Site-specific Development Control Plan (DCP) which the proposers state will be prepared in consultation with the council. The proposal states the DCP would be prepared post receipt of a favourable Gateway Determination to progress during the ongoing consideration of the Planning Proposal with adoption shortly after the gazettal of the amendment to the LEP. 

Mirvac has long had an interest in the 'Wilga Wilson Precinct' having secured an interest in a 'Precinct' idea for this land. In 2010 it was seeking a Site Compatibility Certificate to enable a seniors housing development of 850 independent living units, but did not proceed with that as Pittwater Council, which was For, About and By Pittwater, was in charge then. 

In late 2016 a proposal for close to 3,400 new homes was canned by the then Dept. of Planning due to the high and unacceptable bushfire risks with no suitable route out for the thousands that would need to be evacuated in seconds.

The scheme was revisited in 2021, this time  to rezone a smaller portion of Ingleside of approximately 980 lots, 420 of which were located within the 'Wilga Wilson Precinct', however, past records show the bushfire risk was still too high and the then Planning Minister announced in mid June 2022 the plan would not be proceeding.

The current proposers have stated this then devolved any decision making onto the council, that the Ingleside Growth Area formed part of the then DPE’s approval of Council’s LHS in 2021. 

Background and more on the 2016 to 2022 PP in Pittwater Online report: Ingleside Place Strategy will NOT proceed

The council has an old webpage available on this too - visit here to read up on their approach of then.

There has been a bit of noise of late that the current NSW Government is contemplating canning not allowing new homes to be built in flood and bushfire zones, as instituted under former Minister for Planning and then Pittwater MP Rob Stokes, and after successive disasters and thousands of citizens questioning the state government putting profiteers ahead of residents, even to the point of risking lives and expecting unpaid volunteers and emergency service personnel to risk theirs to help them. 

Three councillors have submitted a Motion about this mooted 'insider knowledge' to the Tuesday September 16 2025 council meeting this week, while current Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby tabled a Notice of Motion in the NSW Parliament on Tuesday September 9 on the NSW Government’s as yet unconfirmed decision it will ignore advice of emergency services in planning decisions. 

“Planning decisions in high-risk areas must be guided by experts, not developers or Ministers. To do otherwise would put communities at unnecessary risk.” Ms Scruby said recently

“Here in Pittwater residents have double digit home insurance or can’t afford to insure at all. We can’t continue to replicate the mistakes of the past by building in these areas.”

“The LA fires were a stark reminder that we can’t build in areas of extreme risk nor underestimate the impacts of a broken insurance system.”

“Our emergency services, many of whom are volunteers, are on the frontline of fires and floods. They know what is safe and where it is not. Housing supply must never come at the expense of basic safety.”

However, as the council is allowing just 2 weeks for residents to go through the lengthy 22 documents (around 1500 pages) to provide feedback, and 5 days have already passed before this report comes out, residents may want to hop to it and visit the DA webpage to dig in to what is proposed before throughout the documents is passed by the council without a peep from residents.

Application Number: PEX2025/0001 closes for submissions on Wednesday September 24 2025.

Currawong Wharf Upgrade Draft REF Open for Feedback: Closes October 6

The council has opened for feedback its Draft Review of the Environmental Factors (REF) report for the upgrade of the Currawong Beach wharf. Feedback opened September 4 and closes October 6.

The wharf will be extended by 33.6 metres (m) through a series of fixed ramps and landings to provide DDA compliant ferry access at all levels of the tide, with stepped access between each landing. The wharf extension is to be designed and constructed using timber structural materials (piles, decking and sub-structure) to match the existing wharf and the history of Pittwater. 

However, once again, the council proposes the lower-level landings are to be constructed from fibre reinforced polymer (FRP), which is putting plastic into the tidal zone.

A 2025 Australian study on the use of this in wharves shows it begins deteriorating as it is being installed and continues to shed microplastics into waterways the whole time it is in place.

See August 2025 report: Community Concerned Over the Increase of Plastic Products Being Used by the Northern Beaches Council for Installations in Pittwater's Environment

Although the council has stated in other instances it has used and is using this product is due to 'cost effectiveness', residents state this is handing on the cost of despoiling the environment to future generations, and poisoning all else in the aquatic environment from the first day of installation day on.

Remediation of existing wharf structural elements using like-for-like materials if required is also part of the Draft REF. 

The council states the upgrade of Currawong Beach Wharf is to improve accessibility for users and the local community. 

''There is an issue of the structure meeting accessibility requirements and the need to cater for our growing aging community needs.'' the FAQ's states

''The Currawong site is an important location for our community, it is listed on the State Heritage Register and we are managing the works sensitively in association with Office of Environment and Heritage and in alignment with the Conservation Management Plan for the area.'' council's project webpage states.

''We have met with local resident groups throughout development of the concept and detailed design, and would now like to hear from the wider community on any additional feedback.

''A draft Review of Environmental Factors (REF) has also been prepared, outlining how we will manage all environmental and heritage considerations during the works. Construction would be timed to avoid interference with seahorse breeding season.''

''We invite you to view the 3D render image (above) and provide your feedback by:

• completing the comment form below, or
• emailing or writing to us. Please include 'Currawong Beach - Wharf upgrade' in the subject line of all email or written feedback.

Comments close Monday 6 October 2025, 11.59pm.

Email: council@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au

In writing: marked 'Currawong Beach - Wharf upgrade', Northern Beaches Council, PO Box 82, Manly NSW 1655.

The council received over $3 million in funding in August 2025, with $1,108,026 approved by Transport for NSW, Executive Director, NSW Maritime, for Currawong.

See the August report: Brilliant News: Bayview - Mackerel - Currawong Wharves Allocated $3,173,117 for Upgrades under Boating Infrastructure for Communities Grant Program

During construction, the council is investigating options for a temporary structure for use; ''this will be discussed with the successful contractor at the tender stage to provide the best outcome.''

The council states it has considered the number of boat moorings at the site with regards to increasing the number available during the design stage to ensure the impact on number of dinghy moorings available, and that the monitoring will continue to be managed by Transport for NSW. 

The final number of tie-ups will be determined in the final design.

The Draft REF is available to download now at: currawong-beach-wharf-upgrade

MORE HERE

Great Koala National Park Announced: Historic Win for Wildlife, Biodiversity, Community

1. The proposed boundary for the Great Koala National Park
2. An immediate temporary moratorium on timber harvesting within this proposed boundary
3. A comprehensive worker and industry support package
4. $6m in community and small business supports for the mid-north coast region
5. An additional $60 million to establish the park.

The 'temporary moratorium on timber harvesting' in the 176,000 hectares of designated state forests remains in place while key elements of this transition are finalised. The moratorium took effect from Monday 8 September and will be in place for up to 12 months, while the details of transitioning state forests to national parks are investigated and negotiated.

Under the Government's 'Creating the Great Koala National Park – information and updates' webpage it is stated:

''The final creation of the park is dependent on the successful registration of a carbon project under the Improved Native Forest Management (INFM) Method, which is currently moving through the Federal Government assessment processes.''

Residents are circumspect after experiencing announcement after announcement under the previous coalition government about investing millions of dollars (over 4 years or more) in koala conservation, and to establish parks in south-west Sydney at some future point, that have only begun to be established under the current NSW Government, but overall the news has been welcomed. 

The Government stated the announcement followed extensive consultation with industry and community stakeholders and a comprehensive expert assessment process.

The Government thanked everyone involved for their input and patience during this process.

The Great Koala National Park will not end forestry on the North Coast. The Independent Forestry Panel is continuing to provide advice to the Government to inform the Forestry Industry Action Plan.

The NSW Government states it is working directly with businesses and workers that are affected by the moratorium on harvesting.  Impacted businesses will receive financial assistance to ensure they can continue to pay their workers and to assist them to access other supports during an initial ten-week transition period. The purpose of the initial payments is to ensure that workers continue to receive their salaries while the NSW Government works with impacted businesses to fairly determine longer term adjustment support and compensation payments for them and their workers.

The number of workers who will be impacted will be finalised over the next 12 months. It is estimated that the reduction in timber supply will result in impacts on up to 300 jobs in the industry covering, harvest, haulage, milling and in Forestry Corporation NSW.

The Government stated more than 100 new staff will be required at NPWS to deliver fire management, feral animal and weed control, ecological rehabilitation and visitor management. The Government said impacted Forestry Corporation workers will be prioritised for new roles created within NPWS.

The additional $60 million in funding announced is for the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service to support the establishment of the park. This is in addition to the $80 million announced in 2023.

The NSW Government will also develop a $6 million Community Grants package. The package will support initiatives that grow the region’s domestic and international tourism opportunities and support local businesses to develop and expand, with a focus on manufacturing.

The new park is expected to create a tourism boom. 

''Without action, koalas are on track to be extinct in the wild in NSW by 2050. At the last election, we promised to take action to establish the Great Koala National Park — and today we are delivering on that commitment.'' The Minns Government stated

''This park will protect more than 12,000 koalas, 36,000 Greater Gliders and habitat for over 100 other threatened species.''

The park will reserve 176,000 hectares of state forest and connect with existing national parks to create a 476,000-hectare reserve – one of the largest in NSW.

One of Pittwater's last koalas. The release of an 8 years old female back into Angophora Reserve after she had been bombarded by magpies. Taronga Zoo picked her up and nursed her back to health before the release on November 5th, 1989. Doug Bladen and Marita Macrae are in the background representing the Avalon Preservation Trust (now APA). Photo by Geoff Searl OAM

MORE HERE

24Hour Row 2025: Let's Row the Distance for Mental Fitness

Narrabeen's Dave Lawler - who is ''taking it to the Lake'' this year for the Gotcha4Life 24 Hour Row

This weekend, people across Australia are rowing in Gotcha4Life’s 24 Hour Row for Mental Fitness (13–14 Sept).

From surf clubs to workplaces to schools, 60+ teams will row in relay for 24 hours, all linked by a national live stream. The goal is $600,000 to help 12,000 more Australians with programs that give them the skills to connect, speak up and seek help.

Rowers across the country are turning effort into action, raising funds for programs and resources that give Australians the skills to speak up, seek help and stay connected.

Every day, Gotcha4Life’s workshops show the difference they make, focusing on connection, early prevention in schools and equipping people to manage the moments before crisis hits - so that suicide is never an option.

Launched by Avalon locals Mel and Nathan Wellings in 2018 after losing one too many loved ones to suicide, the Row has grown from one surf club to more than 60 locations nationwide. Together, participants have raised vital funds to reach over 30,000 people and their wider communities with life-changing Gotcha4Life’s programs and resources.

“We never imagined it would grow like this,” said co-founder Mel Wellings.

“What started as one surf club trying to make a difference has become a national movement. To see so many people rowing together – knowing every dollar raised is helping save lives – it’s pretty special.”

Nathan and Mel - Saturday September 13 at Avalon Beach SLSC for the row--off (start)

“No one rows alone,” said Gotcha4Life Founder Gus Worland.

“That’s the point – in life, no one should have to go it alone either. The 24 Hour Row shows what happens when communities come together. Because it’s through connection that we can build a mentally fit future where suicide is never an option.”

Gus with the Bilgola Boaties crew - just one of several local teams rowing the distance

Dave Lawler: Taking it to the Lake

However, it's not just in the surf clubs and schools this year - one participant is 'taking it to the lake!'.

A favourite of the news service, and the council's Citizen of the Year for 2025 Australia Day Awards, Kevin Lee contacted us earlier this week to let us know about Dave Lawler's 24 Hour Paddle at Narrabeen Lakes.

Kevin said:

''My friend Dave Lawler is taking part in this weekend’s “24 Hour Row for Mental Fitness” as part of Gotcha4Life annual fund raising activities.

Dave Lawler’s challenge for the weekend has an extra twist as Dave will be paddling his kayak in the lake for 24 hours.''

''Dave’s supporters will paddle beside Dave to provide motivation as we will have either 1 or 2 hours (or more) shifts.

This is the first time that I have heard of someone paddling in the lake for 24 hours straight. (This task will be much harder than sitting on an indoor rowing machine.)

We plan to start from Lake Park, North Narrabeen this Saturday 13 Sept at 10am and we will finish Sunday 14 Sept, 10am.''

Let's all get behind this epic event. The 24-Hour Row started right here on the Avalon Beach surf club balcony, their crew page here for this year's Gotcha4Life 24Hour Row. Mel and Nathan Wellings put ideas into action and, with the support of our boaties, the 24-Hour Row fundraiser was hatched. Drop in to your local Surf Club this weekend, say hi, show your support and contribute if you can.

For more information on the 24 Hour Row or to donate to the cause to support building a mentally fit future, visit: 24hourrow.com.au

The donation function will stay open for a few weeks after Sunday, so please, chip in a bit if you can.

MORE HERE

Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club's 159th Opening Day A Celebration for All

The 159th Opening Day of the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club on September 6 was a true reflection of what makes Alfred’s so special — sailing, community spirit, and family. Blessed with glorious weather, members and guests filled the Club grounds to enjoy a day that celebrated both tradition and the season ahead.

A special presentation was also made to Vice Commodore Julia Hornsby by Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby, recognising her trailblazing leadership and commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

Julia is a trailblazer in our sailing community, and the first female Vice Commodore at the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club since its inception.

Julia oversees many programs at the club, including Alfreds Community Sailing program and the Hansa World Championships at the club in March 2025, and worked tirelessly to understand how to support participants with disabilities in this event.

Julia’s work to improve accessibility and inclusion at the club is admirable, and we thank her for enriching our community. 

Vice Commodore Julia Hornsby, Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby and Commodore Robert McClelland

Prizes on the day included Best Dressed Crew, awarded to Banter, and Best Dressed Boat, awarded to Bullwinkle. The winners of the Pittwater Dash were Wings12, skippered by Billy Davis, in the PHS, and for the ORC Fleet Matt Visser in Finn Aus 5.

Angus Gordon OAM and the Hon. Bronwyn Bishop AM, Patron of the RPAYC

MORE HERE

2025 A-Grade Rugby League Premiers: Avalon Bulldogs

Avalon Bulldogs 2025 A Grade Premier Team - plus supporters!. Photo: Michael Mannington OAM

Grand Final Player of the Match and A Grade Captain, William Kelly. Photo: Michael Mannington OAM

An historic rugby league Winter Season has just been completed for local rugby league clubs. Not only has the return of an A Grade team to Mona Vale Raiders been a cause for celebration, and the growth of girls blue tag risen, with the Raiders and Narrabeen seeing many of their junior boys and girls teams play Grand Finals, the enjoyment of rugby league in the community has brought thousands of residents together across the peninsula to enjoy being together on weekends, and rally around and support each other during times of tragedy.

The efforts of every individual working as a team has continued to foster connection between the youngest residents through to the oldest. The Village Green, or common ground, has been the footy ground – the home-grounds of each club as well as the away games grounds. Here the cheers from crowds numbering thousands, the squeals and laughter of small children playing on the sidelines, the quieter murmur of mums and dads overseeing the barbecues and kiosks, the busy presidents running everywhere looking after everyone on game days, the quiet talks of coaches and support staff, are still lingering in the air.  

Memories have been made – community solidified – proving the Manly to Barrenjoey peninsula is still a group of villages connected to each other not by roads but through a love of footy and sports, a love of this beautiful area, and a love of family – the family some are blessed to have in their home and the family that is embedded in each and every club of every sport. In these villages we are raising our children and grandchildren and looking after each other, even as our hair turns grey and the knees get a bit knobbly with age.

The BIG WIN for the Season has been the return of an A Grade Team to the Avalon JRLFC and their HUGE WIN last Sunday, August 31, of the Grand Final to become 2025 Premiers.

The Bulldogs played the Asquith Magpies in the Grand Final. The final bell saw the Doggies win 28 to 16 with two tries scored for Avalon by Taine Allen, and one each by Corey Kirkham and Maxwell Barry. The Bulldogs were 4 out of 4 for Conversions, with Captain and Player of the Match William Kelly, Will, scoring three out of three, and Chandler Walton succeeding in the first of that four.

The Bulldogs added further points through two penalty goals, with Will scoring the first and Corey Kirkham the second.

The A Grade competition in suburban rugby league is the top-tier local men's rugby league competition - this is the premier or highest-ranked division – and the one many set their eyes on being a part of from an early age.

Three Pittwater Teams were in the final Top 8 of the ladder after all the points had been tallied; the Avalon Bulldogs at No. 1, obviously, the Narrabeen Sharks at No.2 and Mona Vale Raiders at No.6. 

They’re the boys all the younger boys look up to and set their examples by. 

This week, a celebration, through a few insights from those who led the charge, and who shared a few words at the end-of-the-week after the win, when everyone had gone back to work.

Player of the Match and Bulldogs A Grade Captain William Kelly, Will, had more to overcome then the challenges that come with every Season this year. He lost his darling mum and adored sister.

MORE HERE

Champions Crowned at 2025 Australian Shortboard Titles: 5 Local Winners 

Mark Gobbe (Mona Vale) - 2025 Australian Shortboard Over 65's Champion. Photo: Surfing Australia / Zach Bowden

The Australian Shortboard Titles presented by SafeStyle officially kicked off in Wollongong on August 26 and ran until Sunday August 31 with five local surfers taking out the win in their division. With near perfect conditions for the competition, the masters divisions flexed their experience, showcasing explosive turns and powerful carves during the first round of Finals.

With all six surfing states competing head to head for national glory, and a chance to qualify for the Australian National Surfing Team 'The Irukundjis' in the SafeStyle Over 40's and Over 50's, and Over 60's divisions, the stage was well and truly set.

As the action heated up in Wollongong, Surfing Australia Contest Director Glen Elliott says the Australian Shortboard Championships presented by SafeStyle are already delivering on their promise: 

"Shortboard surfing is the high-performance core of our sport, defined by speed, precision and progressive manoeuvres. Wollongong has provided fantastic conditions so far, and the level of surfing across all divisions is a true showcase of what makes this discipline so exciting."

First Champions Crowned

By the conclusion of Friday August 29 Surfing Australia had crowned champions for the Over 65 Men, Over 60 Men and Women, and SafeStyle Over 50 and Over 40 Men and Women. 

The first finalist of the day was Mark Gobbe (Mona Vale, NSW) in the Men's Over 65 Division, where he narrowly overcame Mark Loyd (VIC), by just 0.5 points! Gobbe had been working towards this victory for 10 years, and was so relieved to finally achieve his dreams.

“This is my first Aussie title. I’ve won my state three times, and I’ve been to this event four or five times before — making finals a few times but never taking the win. I had a really clear goal to get it this year; it’s been in the works for over 10 years. It’s been a struggle, but it feels so good to finally get there.” Mark said

Readers will recall Mark took out the 2025 Surf Masters State Title in June this year.

In the Women’s Over 60s Division, Susan Levett (Manly, NSW) put on a dominant performance, scoring 6.67 and 8.33 for a 15.00 point heat total to claim the championship. This win qualifies her to join ‘The Irukandjis’ and compete at the 2026 ISA World Surfing Championships, and it also marks her third Australian Surfing Championship!

“I was lucky enough to catch some really good waves and grab the win. This is my third Aussie title — I can’t believe it! My first was ages ago, but to go back-to-back in 2024 and 2025 is really special. I just love it — I feel like a grom again. I love surfing, I love travelling, and I never want to stop competing. I also want to thank my family for their support, especially my kids. They probably want to go surfing themselves, but they always have to put up with their mum — and I’m so grateful for that.” Susan said

MORE HERE

NSW Health transition team deployed to Northern Beaches Hospital

On Monday September 1 the NSW Government announced it has deployed a NSW Health team to work alongside staff at Northern Beaches Hospital to prepare for the hospital’s eventual transition from a public private partnership.

From Monday, the transition assessment and planning (TAP) team comprised of staff from the Northern Sydney Local Health District (NSLHD) will be on site at Northern Beaches Hospital. 

They will work collaboratively with their Healthscope colleagues to fully understand the priority areas for when the operations of the hospital are transitioned to NSLHD and NSW Health.

The Government stated that while this work is underway, the key focus for everyone involved will be to ensure there is no disruption to the provision of safe and efficient care at Northern Beaches Hospital, which continues to be operated by Healthscope.

The NSW Health team includes up to 15 senior leaders from IT, patient safety and culture, clinical operations, workforce, finance and corporate services.

Priority areas include the IT systems and clinical applications used by Healthscope, but not in use by NSW Health. The team will also identify other key areas where policy, procedure or practice gaps exist between how the hospital currently operates and how it will operate as part of the NSW Health system.

Negotiations are continuing between the Northern Beaches Hospital Taskforce, Healthscope and its receivers, including working through the highly complex contractual and financial arrangements in place for Northern Beaches Hospital.

It remains the preference of the NSW Government that a negotiated agreement on the future control and operation of the Northern Beaches Hospital can be achieved, but in the absence of agreement, the government has passed legislation to give it the authority to intervene and avoid a prolonged dispute for members of the community, hospital staff and NSW taxpayers.

See past Reports:

• Regan's Northern Beaches Hospital Deed Termination Bill Passed - June 2025
• Minns Government to amend Wakehurst MP's Northern Beaches Hospital (Voluntary Contract Termination) Bill - June 2025
• Receivers appointed to Healthscope parent companies: short-term partial rent deferral agreement - EOI received - June 2025
• Wakehurst MP Michael Regan Tables the Northern Beaches Hospital (Voluntary Contract Termination) Bill - May 2025
• Minns Government commits to returning Northern Beaches Hospital into public hands - May 2025 Community Forum

NSW Treasurer the Hon. Daniel Mookhey said on Monday: 

“This is a critical next step as we progress towards ending the Liberals’ failed privatisation experiment at the Northern Beaches Hospital. The Northern Beaches community and the hard-working hospital staff deserve a resolution and this team will help us better understand the full picture.

“The government remains committed to reaching an agreed outcome with Healthscope and its receivers and those negotiations continue.”

NSW Minister for Health the Hon. Ryan Park stated: 

“We want to see Northern Beaches Hospital transition out of its PPP arrangement. For a successful and smooth transition, we need to fully understand the systems, processes and ways of working at Northern Beaches Hospital.

“This major hospital is a complex and busy setting, so it is important we have boots, eyes and ears on the ground to identify priority risks. The transition will naturally be challenging, but we want to give the hospital the best head-start upon its transition to NSW Health. 

“That’s what the deployment of our specialist transition team to the hospital is all about.  I want to assure staff and the community that our priority is no disruption to the provision of safe.” and ongoing healthcare. 

Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby stated:

''Today’s arrival of a transition team at Northern Beaches Hospital is a critical step in ending the failed public private partnership and bringing the hospital into public hands.

“This is a critical shift in undoing the failed public private partnership that we’ve been fighting for, to make Northern Beaches Hospital a publicly run hospital, run in the interests of patients and staff,” Ms Scruby said.

MORE HERE

Narrabeen Sports High School’s new performing arts hall Designs Revealed 

On Monday September 1 the NSW Government revealed designs for the new performing arts hall being built at Narrabeen Sports High School, as other much needed upgrades are being delivered at the school.

With construction due to begin in early 2026, students, parents and teachers can now see what their new hall will look like and have a better understanding of the opportunities it will deliver.

This new performance hall will serve as a vibrant creative hub, fostering a rich environment for artistic expression and collaboration, with tiered seating for approximately 400 guests.

Students will have a dedicated space to explore their creative talents, enhancing their education through performances, exhibitions, and workshops.

The performance centre will feature:

• a designated rehearsal space at the back of the hall
• a large stage with separate rehearsal space and backstage band room
• state-of-the-art control room with professional quality audio and lighting
• change rooms and amenities
• a covered entry with a foyer and a lift to ensure accessibility

Other upgrades to the school have been carried out in stages to ensure students can remain focused on their subjects with minimal disruption to their day-to-day activities.

These include upgrades to the technical and applied studies (TAS) classrooms and to the science faculty with renewal of the science labs, prep rooms and chemical storerooms.

These works have improved the overall learning environment for students, allowing them to engage with science and TAS in a more effective and enjoyable way, and better preparing them for the real-world environment.

Among the other upgrades underway are two acoustically treated music rooms and a smaller performance space with a sprung wooden floor.

The new hall and upgrades at Narrabeen Sports High School are part of a record $9 billion investment by the NSW Government for school infrastructure in the 2025-26 Budget.

This targeted investment means every child in NSW will have access to a high-quality public school in their local area.

Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning, the Hon Courtney Houssos said:

“The NSW Government is investing in vital upgrades for public schools to ensure all students across NSW have access to the lifechanging opportunities a public education can offer. This brand-new performance space will enhance student learning at Narrabeen Sports High School by providing state-of-the-art facilities that will expand the opportunities students’ have to gather and perform. I cannot wait to see how students make use of this facility and further upgrades we are delivering to improve music rooms, science labs and technical and applied studies classrooms.”

Member for Pittwater Jacqueline Scruby said:

“I’m excited to see the designs for the new performing arts hall at Narrabeen Sports High. This is a big investment in our school community, and we’re pushing for fast delivery so students can benefit as soon as possible. It’s fantastic to see students already thriving in the refurbished classrooms, with a real sense of pride in their learning. These upgrades are about giving our young people the facilities they deserve and building a school the whole community can be proud of.”

Narrabeen Sports High School Principal, Heidi Currie said:

“We are excited for staff and students to be able to use the new and upgraded facilities, and we’re looking forward to the new hall. These learning spaces are designed with each child’s success in mind, and we are excited by the opportunities that lie ahead. Education is the key to opportunity in life, and we are committed to partnering with our community to create a school where all students are challenged to excel in a nurturing and inclusive environment.”

Narrabeen Sports High School Principal Heidi Currie, Suzie Stanford President of the NSHS P&C, Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby with the Hon. Prue Car, Deputy Premier and NSW Minister for Education and Early Learning in April 2025 announcing a new performing arts hall for NSHS. Photo: Michael Mannington OAM

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

Mackellar MP Dr Sophie Scamps Tables safer E-Bikes Bill

Dr Sophie Scamps, Federal Member for Mackellar, introduced the Safer E-Bikes Bill 2025 (Road Vehicle Standards Amendment) to Parliament on Monday September 1, calling for well-overdue reform to ensure e-bikes are safe, fit-for-purpose, and regulated under federal law.

The bill responds to widespread calls from parents, pedestrians and state politicians for the Federal Government to legislate national safety and import standards for e-bikes. Currently, e-bikes imported into Australia do not have to meet any national safety and quality standard.

“There has been growing community concern about unsafe, high-powered e-bikes being imported and sold without proper oversight. Many new generation e-bikes can be easily modified to exceed legal speed limits, and are being ridden illegally, often unknowingly, on footpaths and roads, posing serious risks to riders, pedestrians and drivers,” said Dr Scamps.

At a recent sold-out community forum hosted by Dr Scamps and Pittwater State MP Jacqui Scruby, trauma surgeons, police, and transport experts highlighted the alarming rise in injuries and enforcement challenges linked to illegal and non-compliant e-bikes.

See: Scruby-Scamps Bring Community Together to Tackle E-Bike Safety - August 2025

This is backed up by research from St Vincent’s Hospital which reported that more than 500 e-bike riders had required critical care in NSW EDs in a two-year period.

“E-bikes have revolutionised the way we move around. They are an important part of the shift to cleaner, more active transport, but the technology has raced ahead of safety legislation. We now often see e-bikes that are more motorbike than bicycle being ridden at high speeds on footpaths and roads.”

“I am very worried we are going to see more tragedies involving pedestrians and riders of these powerful e-bikes unless we act urgently to introduce clear national safety standards,” Dr Scamps said.

The reform measures have broad support at the state level with New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland Government Ministers all having written to the Federal Government calling for national leadership on unsafe e-bike imports and the establishment of national safety standards.

“This bill is about ensuring the e-bikes imported into Australia are both safe and legal for use and cannot be tampered with to make them go beyond legal speed limits except for specific special purposes.

My Bill would set a clear, practical federal standard to ensure e-bikes can play their part in a cleaner transport future, without compromising the safety of pedestrians or riders,” shared Dr Scamps.

MORE HERE

Pictures Turimetta Moods: First Week of Spring 2025 - by Joe Mills