Pittwater Online News

Flags Up Across NSW as Record Number of Lifesavers Return to Coastline

Volunteer lifesavers have brought the iconic red and yellow back to the beach on Saturday 27 September as the 2025/26 patrolling season began across NSW.

From 27 September 2025 to 26 April 2026, beachgoers can expect to see Surf Life Saving volunteers patrolling on weekends and public holidays, as well as professional lifeguards, helping to keep people safe during the warmer months.

Over the last 12 months, Surf Life Saving NSW has seen membership rise by 5 percent to a record 83,000. Patrolling membership has increased by 2.6% to more than 21,000, while Nipper numbers grew by 4.5% to almost 30,000.

It is an exciting time of year but also an important reminder for members of the community to think about how they can keep themselves and their families safe on the sand and in the water.

SLS NSW is reminding everyone to stay surf safe when heading to the coast and to Stop. Look. Stay Alive.

STOP before entering the water.

LOOK for patrolling lifesavers, lifeguards, the red and yellow flags, rip currents, and safety signs.

STAY ALIVE by not swimming if the surf looks unsafe or beyond your ability.

NSW Premier, Chris Minns joined surf lifesavers and Nippers for the symbolic raising of the red and yellow flags at Dixon Park Beach in Newcastle on Friday morning, September 26, to recognise the important role volunteers play in public safety along the state’s coastline.

“People come from around the country and all over the world to visit NSW beaches, and we want every beachgoer to enjoy their time and get home to their family safely,” Premier Minns said

“Our record investment is supporting the incredible work of our surf life savers and volunteers and delivering cutting-edge technology that is the envy of the world.

“Surf life savers and volunteers are everyday heroes and we’re proud to be supporting them as they continue to this essential mission.”

The NSW Government has been driving action to improve water safety and save lives, including key actions identified through the Minister’s coastal water safety roundtable in March 2024. Key initiatives delivered include:

• A record $72 million investment for Surf Life Saving NSW over the four years from 2023-24 to 2026-27.
• Funding has already provided 56 new jet skis from this record investment, with another 11 to be delivered.
• The installation of new Emergency Response Beacons (ERBs) fitted with flotation devices and enhanced technology like high-definition video live-streaming to support rapid response to emergencies and provide another set of eyes on the beach. Already, 58 out of 64 ERBs have been installed and are operating across our coastline.
• Further initiatives to ensure rapid response to emergencies all year-round, alongside the ERBs, include UAV (drone) technology and AI camera technology trials.
• $5.4 million for NSW Surf Life Saving Clubs for the upgrade, restoration or construction of surf lifesaving facilities following the announcement of recipients in the 2024/25 Surf Club Facility Program.
• The launch of a new online Beach Safety Hub to bring together essential information including tips and guidance to help communities stay informed and safe around the state’s waterways. Water safety resources are available in 24 languages on the Hub at www.beachsafetyhub.org.au

To learn more about how to keep yourself and your family safe please visit www.nsw.gov.au/visiting-and-exploring-nsw/visiting-nsw-waterways.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said:

“Every summer, the red and yellow flags become a symbol of safety and community across our state. The dedication of thousands of Surf Life Saving volunteers, alongside our professional lifeguards, gives families the confidence to enjoy our world-class beaches.

We’ve seen too many tragedies in unpatrolled or isolated locations. With a hot summer ahead, I urge everyone to swim between the flags, listen to the advice of lifesavers, and put safety first. These small steps make all the difference.”

2025 Raising of the Flags Ceremony. Photos; SLS NSW

Surf Life Saving NSW President, Peter Agnew AM thanked the NSW Government for its continued support of the movement and urged beachgoers to be cautious, to observe water safety advice from lifesavers or lifeguards, and to take responsibility for themselves and their families when heading to the coastline this summer.

Additionally, lifeguards with the Australian Lifeguard Service (ALS) will commence patrols across many of its locations this weekend, working alongside surf clubs and their volunteers to keep beachgoers safe.

ALS lifeguards will be back on beaches from Port Stephens to the Tweed Shire following on from a busy Winter patrol period, with more beaches to commence patrols towards the Summer holidays.

Beachgoers are reminded to always follow the advice of lifeguards and lifesavers, know their limits in the water, and most importantly — always swim between the red and yellow flags.

These simple actions can prevent tragedy and ensure everyone enjoys a safe and memorable trip to the coastline.

For more information on beach safety or to find your nearest patrolled beach, visit Beachsafe or the ALS website.

MORE HERE

NSW Premier Chris Minns and Surf Life Saving NSW President, Peter Agnew AM speak to SLSNSW Volunteers at the Raising of the Flags Ceremony. Photo: SLSNSW

Max Weston Wins 2025 Bells Beach Longboard Classic 

Locals will have seen Max at the 2023 Manly Longboard Classic where he secured a run in the first WSL LT, and will recall he won the 2023 Noosa Longboard Pro in the lead into the Manly event.

Tour veteran Hiroka Yoshikawa (JPN) also broke through for a career-best result with a runner-up placing, with Kevin Skvarna (USA) matching his best finish by making his first Final in five years.

Max Weston Claims First Longboard Tour Victory in Breakthrough Performance

Competing in his first-ever Longboard Tour Finals Day, Max Weston (AUS) has taken it all the way to an inaugural victory. Weston’s run through the event featured strong traditional longboard surfing throughout and included victories over Tour stalwarts Cole Robbins (USA), Rogelio JR Esquievel (PHL), and Declan Wyton (AUS). Holding a PhD alongside his surfing skills, 33-year-old Weston balances an impressive career with his competitive pursuits. Hailing from the Central Coast of NSW, Weston now resides in Melbourne, regularly scouring Victoria’s Surf Coast for waves. The extra time spent in the Bells lineup was pivotal in carrying Weston through to the top of the podium.

Max in action on Finals Day. Credit: WSL / Cait Miers 

Max in action on Finals Day. Credit: WSL / Ed Sloane 

"It's surreal at the moment, to be honest, it hasn't really sunk in yet," Weston said. "I'm stoked, I've got all my family here and all my mates, and yeah, can't believe it. I thought I surfed really smart heats all week and surfed well enough to get the job done. I just got in a good rhythm and feel like I can do that if I start making a few heats and just build momentum and confidence."

"I think [Bells Beach] is a special place for everyone," Weston said. "You just have to rock up and you can feel that connection straight away. There's rainbows all day today, and we had an unreal forecast, it just kept delivering. Really special place, special event. It was a perfect start. It was unreal, and then I lucked into another pretty good one under Kevin's priority. So I got off to a flying start. Lost my board a couple of times and had a few swims, which kept me honest. But yeah, it was unreal. Awesome Final."

''The Heavens opened this week and gave me the opportunity to write my name into a small piece of Bells history. To win this event in front of my friends and family is a dream come true.'' Max said afterwards

''Congratulations to  Kevin Skvarna, you put on a performance for the ages, it was an honour to share the final with you. Soleil Errico you are so inspiring, Hiroka Yoshikawa congratulations on a breakthrough event, you surfed beautifully!

A huge thank you to my Mum and Dad, my brothers, my partner Ruby, and all of my extended family. Thank you to the local community who have welcomed me with open arms over the past year.

Thank you to Kai Ellice-Flint, shaper at Higher State Surfboards, and thank you to the WSL for the opportunity and building this tour for us.''

Australians Ellice-Flint - Weston top Men's Table

Kai Ellice-Flint led the Longboard Tour coming into the Bioglan Bells Beach Longboard Classic after winning the Lexus US Open of Surfing Huntington Beach Pro Longboard, event 1 in the LT 2025 Championship Tour, impressing judges with his heels and variety. With Max's win at Bells, the two Australians now sit at 1 and 2 for the WSL Men's 2025 LT.

Manly Malibu Boardriders Club members Tully White, who bowed out after the Quarterfinals but sits at 7th in the Women's LT 2025, and Declan Wyton, who ousted Ellice-Flint in the Quarterfinals and who Max beat in the Semis, finished 3rd in the Bioglan Bells Beach Longboard Classic and 5th in the Lexus US Open of Surfing, is now 6th in the Men's LT 2025. 

Kai Ellice-Flint in the Quarterfinals. Credit: WSL / Ed Sloane

Declan Wyton in the Semis. Credit: WSL / Ed Sloane

Declan and Max after their bout.  Credit: WSL / Ed Sloane

MORE HERE

State Government's Latest Planning system reforms set off Alarm Bells in Community, Local Government, Environment Groups

razing the hillside at Palm Beach. Photo supplied

On September 17 2025 the Minns Labor Government announced it is introducing landmark legislation to deliver more homes through a modern, faster, and fairer planning system for NSW.

An issued statement said the NSW Planning System Reforms Bill 2025 is designed to make the planning system quicker and simpler to navigate, so that more homes and jobs can be delivered across the state.

The Bill was due to be introduced the same day.

On September 17 NSW Planning Minister tabled and read the explanation speech for the Environmental Planning and Assessment Amendment (Planning System Reforms) Bill 2025.

The Explanatory note states the objects of this Bill are as follows— 

(a) to amend the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (the Act) to— 

(i) amend the objects of the Act, and 

(ii) establish the Housing Delivery Authority, and 

(iii) establish the Development Coordination Authority to centralise agency referrals and advice provided for the development assessment process, and

(iv) consolidate and clarify the roles and functions of the Independent Planning Commission, the Minister, regional planning panels, public authorities and councils (consent authorities) by removing the regionally significant development pathway, abolishing Sydney district and regional planning panels and clarifying roles and functions for development applications, and 

(v) establish a single community participation plan that applies to all planning authorities and functions, and 

(vi) expand complying development to allow variations to complying development standards and enable a deemed approval process for variations, and

(vii) create a process for certain development to bypass a full assessment, and

(viii) simplify development and approval pathways, and 

(ix) implement standard conditions and make changes to certain review and appeal processes,

(b) to make consequential amendments to other Acts and regulations.

Once you drill down into the amendments the changes are, among others:

Schedule 1[43] removes the requirement for the Planning Secretary or a relevant planning authority (the relevant authority) to consult with the Secretary of the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water if, in the relevant authority’s opinion, a critical habitat or a threatened species or its habitat may be adversely affected by a proposed local environmental plan or State environmental planning policy.

[43] Section 3.25 Special consultation procedures concerning threatened species Omit the section

Schedule 1[61] omits a section concerning the granting of development consent on bush fire prone land.

[61] Section 4.14 Consultation and development consent—certain bush fire prone land Omit the section.

[68] Division 4.3A 

Insert after Division 4.3— 

Division 4.3A Targeted assessment development 

4.20A Declaration of targeted assessment development 

(1) A State environmental planning policy may declare development, or a class of development, to be targeted assessment development. (2) For subsection (1), a State environmental planning policy may specify criteria that development, or a class of development, must meet to be targeted assessment development. (3) Before recommending the making of a State environmental planning policy by the Governor under this section, the Minister must take steps— 

(a) to publicise an explanation of the intended effect of the proposed policy, and 

(b) to seek and consider submissions from the public on the matter. 

(4) Development, or a class of development, declared to be targeted assessment development may also be another type of development under this part. 

4.20B This division prevails 

The provisions of this division and other provisions of or made under this Act relating to targeted assessment development prevail to the extent of an inconsistency with other provisions of or made under this Act relating to development to which this part applies.

On the same day the NSW Opposition stated it ''welcomed the Minns Labor Government revealing its planning system reforms and looks forward to constructive engagement on the details in the coming weeks.'' 

''In December Mr Speakman, together with NSW Nationals Leader Dugald Saunders and Shadow Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Scott Farlow, wrote to the Premier and Planning Minister proposing a bipartisan approach to tackle the state’s housing crisis. We hope that today’s announcement shows that call has been heard.'' the coalition said in their own released statement 

NSW Opposition Leader Mark Speakman said he had made housing reform a priority when others hesitated, because people across NSW deserve a fair shot at a home near their family, work and community. 

“We will now take the next step, listening to stakeholders, and reviewing the legislation carefully in Shadow Cabinet and our party room, but our commitment is clear - we are pro-housing, pro-reform, and determined to see NSW move forward and we will have more significant housing announcements to come between now and the 2027 election,” Mr Speakman said. 

NSW Nationals Leader Dugald Saunders said regional communities know all too well the pressure of finding a home.  

“We’ve been consistent in calling for the cutting of red tape, for a fix for the planning logjams, and to ensure new homes come with the schools, hospitals and roads they need. The Opposition put this on the table at the end of last year, and we’ll continue to make sure regional voices are at the centre of reform,” Mr Saunders said

Although the government was quick to run a series of 'expressions of support and approval' from Developers and developer lobby groups, and even well-respected industry cohorts, the Bill has ignited concerns elsewhere.

Pittwater Greens Councillor Miranda Korzy is calling on local MPs and residents to vigorously oppose the latest round of NSW government planning changes.

Ms Korzy said Labor had introduced the changes claiming they would “deliver more homes through a modern, faster, and fairer planning system”, with a bill “designed to make the planning system quicker and simpler to navigate”.

However, the Environmental Planning and Assessment Bill, tabled in Parliament on September 17, yet again undermines council planning powers and residents’ opportunity to have their voices heard, Ms Korzy states.

“This government is yet again prioritising developers’ desire to make a quick buck over local residents’ right to determine what happens in their own communities,” Ms Korzy said. 

”If being a NIMBY is about standing up to a development agenda that ignores the right of communities to decide how they want their suburbs to look, then I’m proud to be a NIMBY.

”We all want affordable housing for young people but these changes will not create affordable housing in Pittwater. 

“Good planning should allow time to consider good design and environmental concerns, which these amendments sacrifice.

”I’m calling on residents to inform themselves about these so-called reforms, and with our local MPs, to stand up and loudly reject them.

“The Labor government should remember the community outrage, which contributed to their devastating loss to the Coalition in 2011, after they granted themselves the right to override local council decisions on major developments in 2005.”

On specific aspects of the amendments, Ms Korzy lists:

• Residents are already resentful about the Complying Development process, with its inbuilt conflict of interest (whereby builders pay private certifiers to approve their developments), and lack of council enforcement powers.
• But instead of removing this conflict and introducing oversight for councils, the government has dreamt up a provision to allow developers to ask for “minor modifications” to plans, giving councils 10 days to respond.
• In a major change to planning protocols, if the council doesn’t do so within those 10 days, the change will be “deemed” approved. Bad luck if staff are sick or overwhelmed with an unusually high workload. 
• Similarly, for the controversial “minor modifications” to Development Applications - which residents believe are often used multiple times by developers to get around original refusals to aspects of their plans.
• Councils will now have 14 days to process these, and if they run out of time, will be unable to refuse the application. 
• In terms of community input, whilst the council is currently updating our Community Participation Plan, to broaden notification of proposed rezonings and (I had hoped) Development Applications, the new rules would impose a new single plan on councils. 
• The amendment does not detail what will be in the plan, but councils and their communities will lose their ability to decide for themselves how to carry out engagement on these issues.
• The government also plans to scrap the Sydney North Planning Panel and regional planning panels - which would appear to be a positive move, bringing approvals closer to home. 
• However, positions on these panels will remain appointed by councils - continuing the undemocratic way in which developments are processed, and placing a greater financial burden on councils.

• Finally, Labor intends dropping the provision in the act that prevents development approvals where land has been declared bushfire prone. 

''I am particularly concerned about the impact this will have in Pittwater, given the former Coalition government’s plans for housing development at Ingleside were defeated due to the Rural Fire Service declaration of an unacceptably high fire danger in the area. 

Current Planning Proposals for development at the Wilga Wilson Precinct, in Ingleside, and Lizard Rock will be affected by the loss of this restriction, if it passes into law. '' Ms Korzy said

See: Wilga Wilson Planning Proposal for 536 Dwellings at Ingleside: feedback Closes September 24 Update (15.9.2025): Feedback now closes October 8 2025

and; Bushfire risk - Loss of Biodiversity remains an issue for Lizard Rock/Patyegarang development proposal: Post December (2024) Public Meeting decision

Bayview Public Wharf + Baths Restoration: Feedback on Draft Documents now Open 

Bayview wharf as it is at present - non-existent having being neglected to the point where it failed.

The council is now seeking feedback on its plans for a complete restoration and upgrade of Bayview Wharf following its structural failure last year. This presents an opportunity to re-build the tidal pool as well, although the documents state that will occur after the wharf restoration works, which in themselves won't be commenced until at least March 2026.

The works are being funded through the $594,625 allocated to the council under the Boating Infrastructure for Communities Grant Program announced in August and through the funds raised by the SRV passed in June 2025, according to the project webpage.

Once again the Draft REF (Review of Environmental Factors) proposes to install plastics in the estuary of the kind that have been shown in a 2025 Australian study in a similar environment to begin deteriorating as it is being installed and continues to shed microplastics into the waters the whole time it is in place. 

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

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

Previous REF's drafted for the council have stated this product is chosen due to its 'cost effectiveness' (cheaper).

As the project aims to upgrade the wharf through the provision of improved access and usability in the form of a ramp/gangway and a pontoon to improve tidal access and accessibility for ambulant and disabled persons, as required under the grant, a further indication why this pollutant product has been proposed is clarified. Those who sell the product state 'FRP grating or decking provides a slip resistant surface option, perfect for increasing safety in the unavoidable wet conditions of pontoons, wharves or jetties'. 

The proposed construction works as outlined are planned to begin in quarter 3 of 2025. 

The REF states it is anticipated that the groyne maintenance work will take 2 to 3 months to complete. The groyne work will take place before the commencement of the wharf reconstruction, which is scheduled for March 2026 and is estimated to take 4 to 5 months. 

The anticipated timing for the tidal pool restoration works is 2026 to 2027, however, demolition and piling works may be undertaken in parallel with the wharf works, the REF states. 

MORE HERE

NSW Audit Office report on Coastal Management Finds Objectives of Coastal Management Act are not being met: Recommendations

On September 10 2025 the NSW Audit released its findings into Coastal Management. The Office assessed effectiveness through examining the following audit questions:

• Are DCCEEW and DPHI effectively overseeing and facilitating councils’ implementation of the coastal management framework?
• Have the selected councils effectively developed programs and priorities for coastal management?

The audited councils were the Northern Beaches Council, City of Coffs Harbour Council, and Shoalhaven City Council.  They were selected after an examination of factors relevant to the operational and coastal management context of local councils in the NSW coastal zone.

The coastal management framework under the Coastal Management Act 2016 (the Act), aims to deliver strategic and integrated management, use and development of the coast by state and local government for the social, cultural and economic wellbeing of the people of NSW.

The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) oversees and facilitates implementation of the framework by local councils in the coastal zone.

The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) facilitates integration of the framework with the land use planning system.

Local councils are supported by DCCEEW and DPHI to develop coastal management programs (CMPs) that set out risk-based, long-term strategies for managing the coast.

This audit examined whether DCCEEW, DPHI and three local councils (City of Coffs Harbour, Shoalhaven City and Northern Beaches Councils) are effectively implementing the framework to manage the NSW coast.

In its Conclusion the NSW Audit office found that the coastal management framework is not being effectively implemented to manage the NSW coastal environment. 

Seven years after the framework came into effect, most local councils are still in the process of developing coastal management programs (CMPs), and are not yet implementing CMPs to address risks and opportunities. DCCEEW is not effectively overseeing and facilitating implementation of the framework by state and local government. 

As a result, the objectives of the Act – ‘’to manage the coast in an ecologically sustainable way for the social, cultural and economic wellbeing of the people of NSW’’ – are not being achieved.

‘The audited councils are developing CMPs to support coastal management and strategic land use planning. However, the process is taking longer than anticipated. As at April 2025 most of the councils’ CMPs had not yet progressed to the implementation stage. 

The audited councils have taken steps to integrate coastal management into their integrated planning and reporting, and risk management processes. However, the two audited councils with certified CMPs have faced challenges in integrating the actions identified in their CMPs as part of their integrated planning and reporting, due to uncertainty over long-term funding sources.’ the report states

Surfrider Foundation Northern Beaches stated it is dismayed, but not at all surprised, by the findings of the NSW Audit Office’s Performance Audit on Coastal Management. 

‘The document states what we have voicing loudly for years.’ the organisation stated

‘The audit found poor coordination and a lack of oversight in how our beautiful coastline is being “managed”. It finds that state government departments and local authorities are not acting in concert. This lack of integration has resulted in the abject failure of the objectives of the Coastal Management Act.’

‘This spaghetti like admin system results in the destruction of beach public amenity as witnessed at Narrabeen/Collaroy, violence on the beach at Wamberal, and the approval of the beach obliterating projects like the expensive renovation of the Newport SLSC in a flood and tidal inundation zone.’

Surfrider Northern Beaches Branch President Brendan Donohoe said:

”We call on the Minister for the Environment, Penny Sharpe, to take immediate action and appoint a ‘Coastal Commissioner’ to oversee works and development on the precious NSW coast.

“We now have a “Building Commissioner” in NSW, we need the same for the coast.

“Australians love their beaches. It is well past time we acted accordingly by giving the beaches the attention they deserve.”

The report made a Recommendations.

MORE HERE

Brendan Donohoe, President of Surfrider Foundation Northern Beaches, at Line in the Sand 2021 at Collaroy-Narrabeen. Photo: Michael Mannington, Community Photography

Week Four September 2025 (Sept. 22-28)

Flags Up Across NSW as Record Number of Lifesavers Return to Coastline

Aquatics Marine Rescue NSW calls on boaters to make safety a priority these Spring holidays: Log on/ Log Off

Max Weston Wins 2025 Bells Beach Longboard Classic 

Surfboat Brewery Wins Medals at 2025 Sydney Royal Beer & Cider Show as First-time entrants

State Government's Latest Planning system reforms set off Alarm Bells in Community, Local Government, Environment Groups

Park Bench Philosophers Prime Minister of Australia, The Hon. Anthony Albanese, Address to the 80th Session of General Assembly Debate - Plus a little about Lady Jessie Street and Dr. H V Evatt

Bayview Public Wharf + Baths Restoration: Feedback on Draft Documents now Open - Closes October 23

NSW Audit Office report on Coastal Management Finds Objectives of Coastal Management Act are not being met: Recommendations

DIY Ideas National Garden Week 2025: School Holiday Garden Ideas for Youngsters + Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 Community Grants Fund Launched

Environment Synthetic turf: Myths vs the reality - Mona Vale forum, Living Boulders Installed at Spit West Reserve to Boost Marine Biodiversity, Magpies in Spring, Sydney Wildlife (Sydney Metropolitan Wildlife Services) Needs People for the Rescue Line, Warriewood DA Proposes removal of 11 Hectares of Vegetation - 280+ extra vehicles for streets, Costa Georgiadis Portrait unveiled, Record number of endangered White’s seahorses released, Central Coast Wildflower now listed as critically endangered: final determinations for September 2025, Celebrating a silver anniversary for South Coast shorebirds, Feedback Invited: $10 million to cut food waste in NSW households + businesses + Climate Change Licensee Requirements: Have your say to EPA by October 7 + EPA tackling greenhouse gas emissions with new licensee requirements: Have your say, Living Ocean's Art for Oceans Surfboard Auction, Tree Giveaway: October 25, 8am to 2pm at Avalon, With 2035 emissions targets set what Australia does next will help shape global efforts to keep 1.5°C alive, Warn, hide or stand out? How colour in the animal world is a battle for survival, Dangerous climate change threatens Northern Australia’s big ‘food bowl’ dreams, Birding by ear: How to learn the songs of nature’s symphony with some simple techniques, Spring air is humming with insects. But we’re blind to what’s happening to them, Fish ‘fingerprints’ in the ocean reveal which species are moving homes due to climate change, Why you don’t have to block roads or glue yourself to buildings to be a climate activist, The near-extinction of rhinos is at risk of being normalised, Politics with Michelle Grattan: Tony Wood on ‘politics trumping climate policy’ and the hard road ahead, Goodbye petrostates, hello ‘electrostates’: how the clean energy shift is reshaping the world order, As pine martens are reintroduced to south-west England, a new study shows why local people need to be involved, Climate change is fast shrinking the world’s largest inland sea, Middle Eastern countries are among the most exposed to climate change – so why is media coverage so low there?, How India’s unplanned hydropower dams and tunnels are disrupting Himalayan landscapes, Notice of 1080 Poison Baiting, Weed of the Week, 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, Community Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations in Pittwater, Ringtail Posses, Pittwater Reserves, Environment History insights + Walks, Birds, + 

Inbox News Visitor economy leaders appointed to guide accommodation, aviation and jobs growth in NSW, Converted e-bikes banned on NSW rail network due to fire risk, Deadly drug-resistant fungus spreading rapidly through European hospitals, New research shows Black Summer’s megafires left lasting scars far beyond property damage, Do TikTok ‘anti-inflammatory diets’ really work?, Investment to boost skilled workforce across NSW, Building homes for mental health recovery, Managing mould, housemates, and landlords: new research reveals sharehousing horror stories, Even as Jimmy Kimmel returns to the airwaves US TV networks remain more vulnerable to political pressure than ever before, Albanese left off meeting list as Ley oversteps the mark (Meeting between Australian Prime Minister and US President to be October 20 2025), Lawsuits, cancellations and bullying: Trump is systematically destroying US press freedom, What a newly discovered gas bridge between galaxies tells us about the cosmic cycle of matter, The Birdwatchers, Older workers hit by tax, tests, and stereotyping: NSA's Solution, A trusted aged care workforce, TGA approves registration of lecanemab (LEQEMBI), A century in the making, Spring air is humming with insects. But we’re blind to what’s happening to them, ‘I came to Alice in 1982 to visit friends’, Birding by ear: How to learn the songs of nature’s symphony with some simple techniques, Friday essay: what can we learn about a city from its writers?, Spring Break: Say not the Struggle nought Availeth, 8 Student-Backed Study Tips To Help You Tackle The HSC, Young Filmmakers shine at comp., Fresh Wave of Global Stars Lead the 2025 ARIA Awards nominations, Grass roots voices sprout in northern Sydney schools, 2025 Irukandji's Australian Junior Surfing Team, Spring air is humming with insects. But we’re blind to what’s happening to them - a call for citizen scientists, A Glimpse Into Extreme Birdwatching; what's a 'Big Year'?, Opportunities, Word Of The Week: Charger, Stuck on a problem? Talking to a rubber duck might unlock the solution, AI systems can easily lie and deceive us – a fact researchers are painfully aware of, Jane Austen’s real and literary worlds weren’t exclusively white – just read her last book Sanditon, Criticisms against Spotify keep mounting. Luckily there are alternatives, Birding by ear: How to learn the songs of nature’s symphony: simple techniques, Why This Is Spinal Tap remains the funniest rock satire ever made, The Australian Ballet’s flawless, breath-taking Prism is a significant coming of age for the company, 100 years before quantum mechanics one scientist glimpsed a link between light and matter, The thousand-year story of how the fork crossed Europe, and onto your plate today, Fantasy rugby: how the animal kingdom could help you form a winning team, Friday essay: new revelations of the Murdoch empire’s underbelly – from The Hack’s real-life journalist, Underground data fortresses: the nuclear bunkers, mines and mountains being transformed to protect our ‘new gold’ from attack

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Week Three September 2025 (Sept. 15-21)

Profile of the Week:  Zonta Northern Beaches Celebrates 50 Years Of Service and Advocacy: President's Address

History:  Lovett Bay Public Wharves: Some History 

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

First Manly Little Penguin Chicks for Spring 2025

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

Tom Myers Takes Out Men's Ride of the Year in 2024/25 Big Wave Challenge

Greens to introduce cat containment laws in NSW: Empower Local Councils to Act

Pictures Aussie Bird Count 2025 Runs October 20-26: BirdLife Australia Publishes 'What Bird is That?' Help for Participants - so do we!

Park Bench Philosophers Iconic biocontainment lab marks 40 years at Australia’s disease defence frontline

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Week Two September 2025 (Sept. 8-14)

Profile of the Week:  Gotch4Life's 2025 24 Hour Row: Let's Row the Distance for Mental Fitness

History:  ABHS  2025 AGM – Film ‘Smithy’ shows Avalon Beach: the Kingsford-Smith Family connections to Pittwater - Community loses 5 Creative Geniuses - ABHS President Curating Avalon Beach

Wilga Wilson Planning Proposal for 536 Dwellings at Ingleside: feedback Closes September 24 Update (15.9.2025): Feedback now closes October 8 2025

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

Pictures Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club's 159th Opening Day A Celebration for All + What else is coming up at the Alfreds' this Spring

Aquatics Shark net removal trial cancelled for this year:  Shark Meshing (Bather Protection) Program 2024-25 Annual Performance Report Released

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

DIY Ideas Johnson Bros Mitre 10 Mona Vale - Avalon 70th Birthday Celebrations: September 19 to 22

NSW Government commits $10 million to Men’s Rugby World Cup Legacy Program

Park Bench Philosophers NSW Mounted Police mark 200 years in the saddle

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Week One September 2025 (Sept. 1-7) - Father's Day 2025

Profile of the Week: 2025 A-Grade Rugby League Premiers: Avalon Bulldogs

History: Threatened Species Day 2025 + A few insights into Pittwater's Past + Present Threatened Species

Narrabeen to Manly Beaches Closed After Fatal Shark Incident at Dee Why - Heartbreak for family and community

Mackellar MP Dr Sophie Scamps Tables Safer E-Bikes Bill

Narrabeen Sports High School’s New Performing Arts Hall Designs Revealed 

Bilgola Plateau Public School Celebrates 60 Years with Groovy Village Fete: Sunday September 14 - 10am to 3pm

Bendy Buses Return to Pittwater

Aquatics  2025 Australian Shortboard Titles: 5 Local Winners 

NSW Health transition team deployed to Northern Beaches Hospital

Osprey Nest Platform Installed In Careel Bay Wetlands: Fingers crossed for a Spring Thing to happen...

Molly Picklum - Yago Dora Crowned 2025 World Champions at WSL Finals Fiji

Australian Boardriders Battle Returns for 13th Edition: North Narrabeen Qualifier Round Runs November 8

NSW Councillors to face stronger penalties, faster hearings under proposed laws

Park Bench Philosophers 2025 Australian Museum Eureka Prize winners announced: ocean research projects big winners

Consultation begins on illegal tobacco offences for NSW landlords: Online Survey open until September 14

Australasian Dark Sky Alliance Calls for National Legislation to Curb Light Pollution - Petition Closes September 19

Manly Warringah Basketball Association Sea Eagles Under 14's to Represent NSW in the club's 75th Year: Fundraising Support 

Community Concerned: Warriewood DA Proposes removal of 11 Hectares of Vegetation, Bridge Over Narrabeen Creek to funnel 280+ extra vehicles into Warriewood's Back streets - Exhibition period closes Oct. 1, 2025

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

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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.

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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.

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