Community News - December 2015

 December 20, 2015 - January 9, 2016: Issue 245

 Articles This Week

Front Page Issue 245:  Summer in Pittwater - Let's do it Again

Carols by the Sea 2015 Hosted by Avalon Beach SLSC

Pittwater Friends of Soibada 2015 Year End Report by Tamara Sloper Harding, Chairperson, Pittwater Friends of Soibada

NSW Government Announces Amalgamation Proposal Plans: Reactions and What's Next in Process - 2016

No Sleigh Ride To Hobart This YearSydney-Hobart Race Weather Is Likely To Be “On The Nose” For The Big Boats by Rob Mundle –Wild Oats XI + 71st Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race: Pittwater Boats, Skippers and Sailors Participating

Soibada Student Wants To Be Educated In Pittwater: Let’s Help Her by Tamara Sloper Harding, Chairperson, Pittwater Friends of Soibada

Sail Sydney 2015: ASC, BYRA, RPAYC, NLSC by Lisa Ratcliff: Four Pittwater sailors will then head off as members of the Australian Sailing Youth Team to be part of the ISAF Youth Sailing World Championships (December 27, 2015 - January 3, 2016) in Langkawi, Malaysia

Joe's Search For Santa Claus by Irving Bacheller - published 1895

2015 NSW Sports Awards See Best Sportspeople As Finalists: Pittwater Sailors and Surf Life Savers among these - Winners Announced at Feb. 2016 Event

Veterans Centre Sydney Northern Beaches Open All Christmas and New Years -  Ben Webb, Manager of the Centre, asks that anyone who is in need of any assistance, is having a problem, or simply needs to be somewhere comfortable for a chat or a cup of tea, drop in or contact him

Aquatics: Bilgola's 'Billy Swim' has Launched the Pittwater Ocean Swim Series 2015-2016: Four More Opportunities to Dive this Summer + some great pictures taken by Bilgola SLSC Members

Pictures: By Others: 2015 Reprise of the Wonderful Pictures shared by many this year - Pittwater Online News is For, About and By Pittwater!!

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Our Christmas Wish - by Southern Cross Wildlife Care

Destination Sydney and Out of Quarantine: Manly Art Gallery and Museum's Summer 2015-2016 Exhibitions and Events

Lloyd Rees Painting with Pencil 1930 – 1936 Exhibition at Museum of Sydney: 12 December 2015–10 April 2016

Reflections by George Repin: RUSSIAN NEW YEAR

Artist of the Month:  Michelle Ball creates and share beautiful paintings of our offshore areas that evoke the spirit of this land's innate phoenix nature

Profile: Mona Vale SLSC Boat Club a winning team based in community - a few insights from Boat Captain Ryan  Halangahu 

History: Early Pittwater Paddlers, Oarsmen, Rowers and Scullers: The Williams Family - of Bayview, Mosman, and a few South Sea Islands - Cedric Moreton Williams was a Champion Rower,  who won so many years in a row, came from generations of shipowners and shipbuilders

 Say No to Balloons in Pittwater!

Handing out balloons at public functions, or releasing them into the air so they float away, pollute our waterways or bushland and kill the wildlife there, is something that belongs in our past.

We are no longer ignorant of the consequences of such actions and may choose to not allow a few seconds pleasure result in the death of all else that lives here.

On Monday December 14th Pittwater residents Ros Marsh with Billy Bragg Building & Sustainability Community Reference Group, Kim Steyger Hubner, Denby Sheather and Max from Living Ocean, Jools Farrell from Sea Shepherd, Laurel Wood of Boomerang Bags and members of the Surfrider Foundation and Take 3 gathered to support a request for Pittwater Council to adopt a Policy of No Balloons at Outdoor events and commercial centres in Pittwater.

 Ministers, MPs and Mayors Working for the Region at Biannual SHOROC Leaders Forum  

Health, the Greater Sydney Commission, planning for the future of northern Sydney and local job creation were the key points discussed at the SHOROC Leaders’ Forum of NSW Members of Parliament and Mayors.

The Hon Brad Hazzard MP, Minister for Family and Community Services and Social Housing, The Hon Rob Stokes MP, Minister for Planning, The Hon Jillian Skinner MP, Minister for Health and Mr Jonathan O’Dea MP, Parliamentary Secretary for Major Events and Tourism, met with the SHOROC Board of Mayors and General Managers from Manly, Mosman, Pittwater and Warringah councils. 

“Key to the successful delivery of results for the SHOROC region has been the partnership between state and local government,” said SHOROC President and Manly Mayor Cr Jean Hay.

“These forums provide the platform for us to work together on a whole of government approach to improve our public transport, roads, hospitals and plans for the future.”

This SHOROC partnership with the local NSW MPs has led to record NSW Government transport and health funding for the region.

“Progress on the new Northern Beaches Hospital and health centres, tourism and economic development and planning changes for northern Sydney were key points of discussion and it is particularly important for the SHOROC councils to continue the dialogue with the state while local government is under review during the Fit for the Future process,” said Mayor Hay.

“The commitment our local MPs have for our region and willingness to work with local government is commendable and I thank them for working with us so we can make this fantastic area even stronger for the future,” said Mayor Hay.

Below: SHOROC Mayors and State MP meeting. (L-R) The Hon Rob Stokes MP Minister for Planning; Cr Peter Abelson Mayor Mosman; The Hon Brad Hazzard MP Minister for Family and Community Services and Social Housing; Mr Jonathan O’Dea MP Parliamentary Secretary for Major Events and Tourism; Cr Jean Hay AM SHOROC President and Mayor Manly; Cr Michael Regan SHOROC Vice-President and Mayor Warringah; Cr Jacqueline Townsend Mayor Pittwater; The Hon Jillian Skinner MP Minister for Health.

 Avalon Craft Cottage ‘Back to Avalon’ MVHA Support

The Avalon Craft Cottage members would like to wish all our customers a very Merry Christmas, and a happy, healthy New Year.

Thank you to everyone for your support throughout the year… you are what keep our little group going.

As I am sure most of you know, we have been keen supporters of the Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary for many years now, and at our recent 'Back to Avalon’ show we once again collected money for them.

I am delighted to be able to tell you that I have posted off a cheque for $500 to the Hospital Auxiliary to help them with all the wonderful work they are doing for our hospital.

Our members are now taking a well-deserved break after a very busy year, but…. we will be back in the New Year refreshed and reinvigorated.

May I wish you all the joys of this festive season.

Maureen Darcy-Smith - ACC.

 

Pittwater Rugby Park's facelift

17 December, 2015

Pittwater Rugby Park in North Narrabeen is currently being upgraded.

Fondly known locally as ‘Rat Park’ and the home of Warringah Rugby Club, the venue’s facelift includes a new state of the art LED scoreboard.

Pittwater Council’s General Manager, Mark Ferguson said the improvements were an important element of enhancing one of Council’s premier assets.

“Pittwater Rugby Park is not only an invaluable facility for many local and ‘away’ sporting clubs – it is also a great venue for community groups and businesses to host events.

This premier sporting centre is a versatile venue that also plays host to a range of events throughout the year. These include the annual Beaches Christmas Market, the American Car Show and the ever-popular weekly Beaches Market.

 “As well as a number of aesthetic and access improvements, a complete overhaul of the electricity supply is underway, with completion expected by the end of January 2016,” added Mr Ferguson.

Other upgrades include painting of the grandstand and replacement of the skylights. 

Tactile ground indicators, to assist those who are visually impaired, are being installed in the grandstand in appropriate locations, while the handrails at the entrance of the venue are being upgraded.

The venue facilities include: electronic scoreboard, grandstand seating for approx. 1200, changing rooms, a TV tower, gymnasium and refreshment area and parking to service nearly 200 vehicles.

Although famous as a sporting centre, this facility also features a function room catering for up to 100 people with bar and undercover BBQ area. This function centre is available for hire year round, and can be done by calling 9970 1360 or visit: www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au

 

Please note Council office hours over the holiday period:

• Thursday 17 December - Closed (from 12pm to 2.30pm)

• Thursday 24 December - Closed

• Friday 25 December - Closed

• Monday 28 December - Closed

• Tuesday 29 December - Open

• Wednesday 30 December - Open

• Thursday 31 December - Open

• Friday 1 January 2016 - New Years' Day

Outside our opening hours you can contact Council on the out-of-hours service by calling 9970 1111 or by visitingwww.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/contact_council

Library opening hours

Mona Vale Library will be closed 24 December and will re-open on Tuesday 29 December. The library will also close at 2pm on 31 December and re-open Saturday 2 January 2016.

Avalon Library will be closed on Friday 25 December and will re-open on Tuesday 29 December. The library will also close Friday 1 January 2016.

Council meetings

Council’s last meeting of the year will be held on Monday 21 December, with meetings resuming on Monday 1 February 2016. The Development Unit will begin meetings at the end of January 2016.

Enliven Pittwater - Summer sessions

Pack a picnic and enjoy the sounds of summer with our series of FREE open-air pop-up music performances. Mona Vale, Newport and Avalon will come alive with relaxing bluegrass, jazz and classical music. Sponsored by Enliven Pittwater, these events feature the Green Mohair Suits, The Bluejays, Pittwater String Trio, The Distant Sons, and Ahava Ensemble. Concerts will run over six sessions from 3 December 2015 until 15 January 2016. Download the Enliven App for the full program.

Summer Sessions: 

Summer Sessions: 15th Jan 2016 12:00pm-2:00pm

Sit, relax and enjoy live classical music at Library Lane, Mona Vale

Summer Sessions: 15th Jan 2016 5:30pm-7:30pm

Sit, relax and enjoy live jazz music at Dunbar Park, Avalon

Church Point Ferry Service Christmas Day Services 

On behalf of everyone at the Church Point Ferry Service, we would like to thank all of our customers for their support during the year. We also wish you all a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year. On Christmas Day we will be operating the following services only. Be safe this Christmas. Think of the ferry driver as your designated driver! 8.20 am Depart Bells Wharf 

8.30am Depart Church Point 

9.30am Depart Church Point 

10.30am Depart Church Point 

4.30pm Depart Church Point 

5.30pm Depart Church Point 

For the rest of the Festive Season we will be operating our normal timetable, for Public Holidays use the weekend timetable.

 2015 to 2016 double demerit periods

The double demerit points period applies from midnight of the start date to midnight on the finish date.

Midnight Wednesday 23 December to midnight Sunday 3 January (or 24 December 2015 to 3 January 2016 inclusive)

NOTICE

Dear Readers and Contributors

Please be advised that the Final Issue of Pittwater Online News for 2015 will be published on the 20th of December, 2015 – No. 245. The First Issue for 2016 will be published on the 10th of January, 2016 – No. 246.

We shall not be back in the Office prior to January the 5th 2015. Contributions/Events for the January 10th, 2016 Issue may still be sent via email and will be attended to promptly on our return.

We'd like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Years. Thank you  very much for a brilliant year!

2015 has allowed us to publish thousands of news items seen by millions of people here, all over New South Wales, around Australia and around the world who all tell us...

Pittwater is beautiful!

Pittwater Online News.

 westpittwater.com.au is live!

The West Pittwater Community Association is pleased to advise its new website is now live.

It is an online meeting place for the Western Foreshore’s long-standing residents and newcomers alike.

The site provides our community with an easily accessible place for engagement and interaction where you can find local events, critical news items, discussion forums, WPCA Minutes, community projects, a noticeboard, service directory and information vital to those living offshore.

Wayne and Sandra Lazarides, members of our community, donated their time and energy to designing and building the site with the support of a working committee. Their generous contribution is greatly appreciated.

The site is funded through WPCA membership. If you are not a member, please consider joining us. You can do so online.

I invite you to explore the new site, visit it regularly and use its resources. Your contribution will make it lively and relevant, and establish it as an integral community asset.

Regards,

WPCA Committee

 Floating Christmas Choir 

Tuesday 22nd December

7.00pm at Frog Hollow

8.00pm at Church Point Wharf

Everyone is welcome

Share the fun with family and friends .. bring along that silly hat, a picnic and the dogs.  

To sing along you can get a copy of the words from here

 Scotland Island Dog Race 2015

It's on again!

Same time same place: Christmas Eve 6pm @ Church Point

DETAILS:

Register your Dog from 2:30 to 5:30pm

Entry fee is 1 Longneck (Cold !) and 1 x Large Tin Dog Food

Official starting time 6pm (or thereabouts)

_________________________

Above Notices courtesy Pittwater Offshore Newsletter - for Offshore Residents of Pittwater, Australia

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 19/12/2015 

click on Logo: 

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Raise 200k in 2015

MVHA won't broadcast it, so we shall. 

They again raised the highest among among 200 branches of UHA in NSW, achieving more than $200, 000.00.

Thanks to Friends of Northern Beaches Palliative Care UHA for letting us know and well done to everyone who has toiled all year as part of MVHA stalls and activities to Keep investing in our hospital.

December
Pittwater Place, Mona Vale, 21, 22, 23rd December, 9am to 3pm,Christmas stall, Christmas items, craft and knitwear.

 Surf Boat Crews Racing to Represent Our Country

ASRL Newsletter #59 December 2015‏

The National Selection Trial will be held at Elouera this Sunday 20 December commencing at 8am and we have some of the best crews in the country going head to head to represent Australia!

Confirmed starting list:

Open Men - Mona Vale, Palm Beach NSW, Bulli, Corrimal, Cronulla, North Cronulla, Coogee, North Cottesloe 

Women - Mona Vale, Palm Beach NSW, Manly, Manly, Austinmere, Torquay, Torquay, North Cronulla, Elourea 

Good luck to everyone competing for the right to represent the Green and Gold!

Manly Team Navy Boat Carnival/ASRL Short Course Champs

The Manly Team Navy Boat Carnival is on again in January 2016 along with the ASRL Short Course Championships!

Details are: 

Saturday 23 January

- Manly Team Navy Boat Carnival

- National Youth Selection Event

- Final NSW State Team Selection Event

Open Men, Open Women and Under 19's report at 6:30am with a 7:00am start.

Reserve Grade and Under 23's report at 11:00am with a 11:30am start.

Sunday 24 January

Everyone is a 6:30am report for a 7:00am start.

Carnival format

Saturday is elimination racing with repechage with the aim to have five races per division, including finals. Sunday is a short course with the format to be announced closer to the event (subject ot entry numbers and conditions). There will be two boat areas on both days and the area splits will be announced on Monday 18 January.

Entries and Registration

Saturday entries are via NSW branches section of carnival.sls.com.au 'SNB - Manly Boat Captain'

Sunday entires are via ASRL section of carnival.sls.com.au 'ASRL Short Course Champs'.

Eligible crews will receive tokens for the draw to win a NEW SURFBOAT.

All officials and competitors are invited to Manly Life Saving Club after the ASRL Short Course Champs on Sunday for refreshments, medal presentations and team selection announcements. 

Check the ASRL website, SNB branch website and Facebook for updates leading up to the event.

Palm Beach Golf Club Opens Picturesque Garden Bar

Looking for somewhere to have a cooling ale or glass of icy sparkling wine in the shade? - Palm Beach Golf Club has opened a Garden Bar. Just the spot to unwind this Summer.

Top: New mural at Palm Beach Golf Club created by Dino Halcrow

 Lifeguards To Resume Sydney Patrols

Thursday 17 December 2015: SLS NSW

Lifeguards from the Australian Lifeguard Service (ALS) will be patrolling a diverse range of locations across Sydney when they ramp up their patrolling duties ahead of what is predicted to be a busy summer.

The summer holidays are traditionally the busiest time of the year for these professional lifeguards who are trained to handle and respond to any emergency situation.

Lifeguards have been patrolling beaches across Pittwater since September but are anticipating an influx of out-of-area visitors as people look to make the most of their Sydney break.

Following on a successful maiden season patrolling Lake Parramatta earlier in 2015, lifeguards will again be casting a watchful eye over water users from Saturday for the entire summer school holiday period. Lifeguards will patrol seven days a week from 9am to 6pm.

Two lifeguards will also be patrolling Garie Beach in Sydney’s Royal National Park from next Monday 21 December ensuring that help will be on hand for visitors to this unique location.

In addition local surf life saving clubs will be patrolling beaches throughout Sydney on weekends and public holidays providing total coverage to some of the city’s most popular coastal destinations.

ALS NSW Manager Brent Manieri said lifeguards are looking forward to resuming their patrol duties after performing strongly in their annual proficiency tests.

“We are at the stage of the season now where all the testing is complete and everyone is just really looking forward to putting their skills into practice.

“This year we will be continuing to emphasise preventative actions on the part of our lifeguards to ensure that potentially dangerous situations are dealt with before they escalate. This could include such actions as encouraging swimmers to swim between the flags and identifying hazards that could impact on beachgoers safety,” Mr Manieri said.

He also praised the respective Councils for their commitment to the safety of all beach goers in the area.

“Our focus, like all our Council partners, is ensuring the safety of all beach goers in the area, and we look forward to continuing our strong relationship with Council and delivering a high level of service to everyone who frequents beaches across Sydney.”

Lifeguards from the ALS will be on patrol at the following beaches throughout the summer;

Lake Parramatta 19/12/15 – 26/01/16

Royal National Park

Garie Beach

21/12/15 – 22/01/16

Wattamolla

26/12/2016

For a full list of patrolled beaches and times please visit theBeachSafe Website

 Tumbledown Dick RFB New Life Member

December 14, 2015 

Life Membership and Christmas celebrations

The Brigades annual awards were wrapped into the annual Christmas party over the weekend which had many members and their family in attendance.

It was a fitting occasion for the Brigade to acknowledge and honour the 17 years of dedicated service by Peter Doherty who was awarded Life Membership of the Brigade. Peters enthusiasm, commitment and willingness to get in there and get things done have been a hallmark of his service. He's held many positions in the Brigade apart from years of fire fighting: Deputy Captain, Secretary, Training Officer, Fundraising Officer and New Member Induction.

Thank you Peter.

Other awards on the day covered Rookie of the Year (Ben Mills), Firefighters of the Year (Andrew Miller and John Borralho) and Officer of the year (John Watson) with thanks to all others who contribute to the many functions within the Brigade which are all essential to its on going management and effectiveness. A special thanks to our Captain, Richard Bouwmans who brings it all together.

 Raise 2016 Mentors Needed

We have 800 young people needing a mentor in 2016. Is 2016 the year you volunteer?

Apply now and tell your firends - help our young people shine.

Raise Foundation is a registered Australian charity which provides quality mentoring programs for young people in high schools and in the community.

Our mentoring programs provide a community of support around young people. Mentoring from a positive role model during the critical teenage years provides a nurturing pathway for young people to feel supported. The power of having someone neutral to talk to, who really listens and actually hears you, is extraordinary.  We all need someone to talk to, and we can all raise our hands to help make a tangible difference.

Raise improves the lives of young people in our community by providing school and community based mentoring programs and personal development workshops. We put into practise the idea that it takes a village to raise a child.

Raise Mentors are helping young people to raise their voices, improve their relationships, advance in their wellbeing and coping strategies, increase their self confidence, identify and achieve their goals, and engage in further education and employment.  We have provided accredited mentors for 1,687 struggling young Australians since inception.  This year alone, we are mentoring over 600 young people across Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, and we are planning to reach over 800 in 2016 – so we need your help.

Find out more at: http://www.raise.org.au/

Fresh Art: Pittwater's HSC Artists

Art exhibition showcasing the work of Pittwater recent HSC Artists. 3-10 January, 10am - 4pm at Avalon Recreation centre

FRESH ART is a collaborative project celebrating the work of our next generation of young Creatives.

Presented by Pittwater Council the exhibition showcases some of the exemplary artworks produced by Pittwater’s emerging young artists for their HSC. Large scale prints, drawings, paintings, photographs and sculptural installations reveal the depth of the creative and imaginative process undertaken by these artists.

Their work is exciting, innovative and very, very fresh. Often engaging with large emotions and interrogating a range of concerns, the artists wrestle with the politics of place, identity and contemporary culture in new and often highly original ways.

Using artistic experimentation, emerging theoretical and conceptual themes and a wide range of technical skills to communicate, explore and develop their own unique artistic expressions. Their work bears witness to a powerful moment in their lives as they experience highs and lows of making art for the HSC.

 Climate and Water Outlook: January–March 2016

Published on 16 Dec 2015

The monthly Climate and Water Outlook video covers rainfall, streamflow and temperature for the next three months. The next video will be available on Thursday 28 January 2016. For more detail, please go to http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/ahead 

 Barrenjoey Peninsula Week of Golf 2016

Held: 8th Feb 2016: 8am - 5pm

Join over 600 women on the Northern Beaches to participate in an outstanding Golf tournament.

For a small entry fee, golfers have the opportunity to enjoy 7 beautiful Northern Beaches Golf Courses – Bayview, Cromer, Long Reef, Manly, Mona Vale, Monash and Wakehurst.

Enter online now: www.barrenjoeyweekofgolf.com

 Hoon jet-skiers on notice

16 December 2015

Minister for Roads, Maritime and Freight Duncan Gay, Member for East Hills Glenn Brookes and NSW Police Marine Area Commander Detective Superintendent Mark Hutchings today announced a NSW Government crackdown on dangerous and anti-social riding of jet-skis in and around the Georges River, Botany Bay and Port Hacking.

New measures include increased high visibility and covert patrols, additional speed restrictions and jet-ski exclusion zones, stronger laws to enable immediate suspension of boat licences for reckless, dangerous and negligent behaviour and seizure and impoundment of jet-skis.

Minister Gay said local and boating community members had raised serious concerns about hoons who pose a huge safety risk to all river users.

“All jet-ski users flouting the law are on notice. We’re putting a stop to this behaviour,” Minister Gay said.

“Speed limits, irregular riding and safe distance rules are in place for a reason – breaking the law is just downright irresponsible and there are serious consequences.

“Everyone needs to share our waterways – there is no place for intimidating behaviour.

“Quite frankly, we shouldn’t have to stand up and tell jet-skiers to slow down, keep a safe distance and obey the law – it’s about time more courtesy and respect was shown for other boaters and water users.”

Detective Superintendent Mark Hutchings said it was known that dangerous hoon-like behaviour stopped when enforcement is in place, which is why we’re stepping it up a notch.

“Police officers will be tasked daily to patrol the Georges River and other areas where jet-skiers are causing trouble,” Det Supt Hutchings said. "We are specifically targeting a rogue element of individuals who conduct illegal activities on the water. "Police have already pressed charges against a man who allegedly drove his jet-ski negligently on the Georges River at Picnic Point, knocking a kayaker into the water and causing that man serious and painful injuries. "We won't hesitate to arrest and charge others who insist on breaking the law on the water," he said.

Director of Maritime Angus Mitchell from Roads and Maritime Services said a raft of measures was also being considered to deter illegal activity and catch offenders, including the use of GPS and drone technology as well as increasing the number of CCTV cameras in and around problem areas.

“From 1 January, Roads and Maritime will extend the eight knot speed limit zone on the Georges River by two kilometres,” Mr Mitchell said.

“We’ve also set up a dedicated complaints hotline on 13 12 36 for the community to report incidents of dangerous or anti-social behaviour and compliance issues.”

The eight knot extension will apply from the downstream end of the existing four knot Picnic Point area about 1.5km, to near the entrance to Mill Creek. It will also extend the existing eight knot area upstream of the Picnic Point speed area about 500 metres to the entrance of Deadmans Creek, to include the Sandy Point boat ramp.

Mr Brookes said jet-ski exclusion zones would also be properly considered in parts of the Georges River (around Revesby), Port Hacking (Bonnie Vale) and Botany Bay over the next six months, in consultation with the local communities, water users and Police.

“These measures are a great win for the local community members who have been calling for tougher enforcement, so locals can use the waterways without feeling intimidated.

“Stronger laws to enable immediate suspension of boat licences for reckless, dangerous and negligent behaviour have already been proposed and new powers to enable seizure and impoundment of jet-skis will be progressed as part of marine safety legislation reforms in 2016.”

 Northern Beaches Concert Band Appointment of New Band Director 

Northern Beaches Concert Band is delighted to welcome its new band director, Ms Sarah Shaw.  Sarah has been appointed, following the resignation of Matthew Browne, due to illness.  

Matthew led Monatones, now the Northern Beaches Concert Band (NBCB) for almost 20 years and his dedication, sense of humour and commitment will be sorely missed.

Sarah is an experienced popular local band director who is brimming with ideas for the band.  “Playing in a band is a wonderful, rewarding way to improve your skills in a fun and supportive environment.  I am very excited about working with such an inclusive and motivated group of musicians”, said Sarah.  

Northern Beaches Concert Band will kick off 2016 with a new repertoire on Wednesday 3rd February 2016 at 7.30pm at the Pittwater High School Music Room, Mona Street, Mona Vale.NBCB encourages all those adult players out there to dust off their instruments and come and try the band out.  The band is always looking for more flutes, clarinets, saxophones, French horns, euphoniums, tubas, trombones, etc.  There are easy parts, more difficult parts – something for everybody!  

Enquiries: 0414 560 263 (Denise Morgan)

 Have your say on ATO’s digital move

December, 2015: National Seniors

The Australian Tax Office (ATO) is seeking feedback from the community on its plan to transition to fully digital services.

The proposed initiative will phase out paper transactions and require most of the community to use digital services to send and receive information and payments to the ATO.

"More and more, people are carrying out their day-to-day business online and in the last couple of years a focus of ours has been to make sure our digital services meet the community’s needs,” ATO Deputy Commissioner Michelle Crosby said.

Alternative services will be available for people who are unable to go digital and who qualify for an exemption.

The ATO will provide additional time and support for those needing help to make the shift from paper to digital, she said.

To provide your feedback, visit the ATO’s Let’s Talk consultation site before 15 January 2016 at lets-talk.ato.gov.au/Digitalbydefault

National Seniors will also provide feedback to the consultation and outline the concerns for seniors who are not online.

  Round Four of Green Army projects focus on protecting heritage sites and threatened species

Media release: 17 December 2015 - The Hon. Greg Hunt MP, Minister for the Environment

Protecting our national and world heritage icons and key threatened species is the major focus of hundreds of new Green Army projects to be rolled out across the country in coming months.

I am delighted today to announce 397 new Green Army projects under Round Four of the programme.

This brings the total number of approved Green Army projects to 1,145 since the programme began in 2014.

Many of the new Green Army teams will work to support the delivery of targets set out in Australia's Threatened Species Strategy.

Participants will carry out recovery actions for priority threatened birds and mammals or take action to reduce the impact of feral cats.

Overall, 311 of the new projects will support threatened species recovery, including 119 projects that will address priority threatened species under the Threatened Species Strategy. Feral cat eradication will be a special focus of 93 of the projects.

Working on national and world heritage sites will be the focus for 106 new Green Army projects, including 32 that will directly benefit the Great Barrier Reef.

In Sydney, a Green Army team will work with the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust at North Head and Cockatoo Island, restoring 1.8 kilometres of 1930s stone wall and pre-WWII military tunnels.

In Melbourne, gardens at Rippon Lea Estate will be restored to their former glory with plantings of the period.

Other heritage icons that will benefit from a Green Army team include Victoria's Great Ocean Road and Castlemaine Diggings, Parramatta Park in Sydney, Wodonga's Bonegilla Migrant Camp and the Woolmers and Brickendon estates in Tasmania.

A total of 145 of the projects will be undertaken in remote Australia, many hosted by Indigenous groups. In the Kimberley, Green Army participants the Nyul Nyul Women's Rangers will expand an existing nursery in Beagle Bay to propagate native bush foods and bush medicine and revegetate National Heritage listed Monsoonal Vine Thicket sites on the Dampier Peninsula.

In Queensland, Green Army teams will work with the Girringun Aboriginal Corporation on a range of projects, including feral pig eradication on Hinchinbrook Island and water quality sampling and weed eradication in the upper Burdekin catchment.

The Green Army programme not only benefits the environment, but also provides participants with skills and experience they can use elsewhere the workforce.

The Green Army participants I've met around the country are impressive young Australians who are proud of the positive work they're doing for the environment and their communities.

I look forward to meeting the next round of Green Army participants as these new projects are rolled out across the country.

A full list of approved Round Four projects is available at: www.australia.gov.au/greenarmy.

From Round Four projects: Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Protecting Natural and Cultural Heritage All through: NSW Office Of Environment And Heritage

Protecting Natural and Cultural  Heritage Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park - Project 1 Western Tracks: This project will rehabilitate habitat and tracks in the western park, delivering significant ecological improvements, extensive weed control and regeneration, bush 

Protecting Natural and Cultural Heritage Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park - Project 2 Rock Art Sites:  This project will carefully remove some of the current threats to multiple key rock art sites as well as improve native habitat in the surrounding areas

Protecting Natural and Cultural Heritage Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park - Project 3 Eastern Habitat:  This project will deliver significant ecological improvements in eastern sections of the park, undertaking extensive weed control and habitat regeneration, bush track construction and repair to minimize visitor impact, visitor infrastructure maintenance, and stabilising erosion created by increasing intense storm events.

Protecting Natural and Cultural Heritage Kuring-gai Chase National Park - Project 4 Barrenjoey: This project will consolidate the work and significant ecological improvements of the earlier teams, undertaking extensive weed control and native bush habitat regeneration, bush track repair to minimize visitor impact, visitor infrastructure maintenance, and stabilising erosion created by increasing intense storm events

Protecting Natural and Cultural Heritage Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park - Project 5 Consolidation A: This project will consolidate the work and significant ecological improvements of the earlier teams, undertaking extensive weed control and native bush habitat regeneration, bush track repair to minimize visitor impact, visitor infrastructure maintenance, and stabilising erosion created by increasing intense storm events.

Protecting Natural and Cultural Heritage Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park - Project 6 Consolidation B:  This project will consolidate the work and significant ecological improvements of the earlier teams, undertaking extensive weed control and native bush habitat regeneration, bush track repair to minimize visitor impact, visitor infrastructure maintenance, and stabilising erosion created by increasing intense storm events

Protecting Natural and Cultural Heritage Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park - Project 7 Consolidation C: This project will consolidate the work and significant ecological improvements of the earlier teams, undertaking extensive weed control and native bush habitat regeneration, bush track repair to minimize visitor impact, visitor infrastructure maintenance, and stabilising erosion created by increasing intense storm events.

Monster Raffle Supports Local Boardrider Clubs

In 2015/16, Surfing Australia is again running the Monster Raffle in conjunction with the Original Source Australian Boardriders Battle.

Last year, over $27,000 was raised with all proceeds benefiting more than 108 of Australia's boardriders clubs. This year, we want to go bigger so we can give back to the clubs who help make Australian surfing what it is today.

So... grab your ticket today for $5 and not only are you giving back to Australian Boardriders clubs, but you'll also be in the running to WIN a brand new Toyota RAV4 Cruiser valued at $55,000 plus thousands of dollars' worth of other cool gear from Milwaukee, Oakley, Original Source, FCS, Nikon and Boost Mobile!

Buy Tickets at: www.monsterraffle.com.au

Mona Vale Chamber of Commerce Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Fundraising Dinner

The Mona Vale Chamber of Commerce is pleased to invite the Northern Beaches Community to enjoy a delightful dinner and fabulous guest speakers as we raise funds to support Mona Vale Hospital.  
The guest speakers are Dr Glenn Singleman and his wife Heather Swan.  Together they have some truly unbelievable feats in the world of base-jumping and wingsuit flying, but are also highly sought after motivational speakers who will inspire us to overcome whatever fears are holding us back from achieving our goals.

Date: Friday 19 February 2016
Time: 6:30pm
Venue: Mona Vale Golf Club
Tickets: $110 each or $1000 for table of 10.
All proceeds will go to the Mona Vale Hospital Auxillary to fund equipment purchases for the Mona Vale Rehabilitation Centre.
Tickets: www.monavalechamber.org/events

Southern Cross Wildlife Care 

       Critter of the Month - December 2015 - January 2016:  

Our Christmas Wish

It's been a month of sad little patients being brought in with injuries and afflictions that were all caused by human irresponsibility....

Littering.  Our volunteers spent days searching for a poor swamp-hen that had a Coke-can stuck to its mandible which meant it couldn't eat.   

Irresponsible Pet ownership.  Our volunteers spent hours nursing baby animals back to health after they became victims of cats wandering about at night.  

Bad driving.  Our volunteers have dragged the limp bodies of dead or dying wallabies off the roads after they were struck by vehicles.  

Thoughtlessness.  Our volunteers have been swamped with injured birds and homeless possums after their trees were cut down without a thought for the destruction of their homes.  

With Christmas coming up, our wish is for humans to start living responsibly.  Here are a few ways you can start:

Bin It

Eating, drinking, picnicking - we all love to do it!  Especially in beautiful areas such as the park, the beach and the lake-side.  But those areas won't stay beautiful for long if we just toss our garbage on the ground or into the water.  This confronting image should be enough to make us all want to clean up our act:

Swamp hen wearing litter... Photo by Andrea Louisa Glazier. 

If you're fishing, make sure you take all your fishing hooks and line with you.  Many of our sea-birds get horribly entangled in fishing line or swallow fish-hooks that have not been properly discarded.  

Radiography of a sea-gull that has ingested a discarded fish-hook.

Cats in After Dark

Be a good owner and do the right thing - for your pet and for our wildlife.  You may not like to think of your fur-baby as a killer, but they certainly do a lot of damage to our nocturnal wildlife.  A cat's saliva is a lot like venom to many of our little native animals and without treatment, they will die within hours of being in kitty's mouth.  Similarly, there are dangers after dark for your cat.  Every day I see at least one that has been a victim to car-strike.  There are also pythons, powerful owls and foxes out there that pose a threat to a wondering kitty-cat.  If you love them, keep them indoors - particularly at night.

Baby ringtail, baby swamp snake and baby bandicoot - all victims of cat-attack.

Drive to Keep Them Alive

Driving at night means that you are more likely to encounter our nocturnal wildlife.  Between dusk and dawn, slow down and stay alert.  If there is no oncoming traffic, use your brights to keep an eye on the road ahead.  If you do happen to hit an animal, contact your local Wildlife Rescue Organisation immediately.  If you hit a marsupial, stop to check its pouch for joeys - they can still survive even if the mother is killed.  

Wildlife Roadkill statistics show that 727 wallabies were killed on the Wakehurst Parkway since 2010!  That's just on one road!!!  Our wallaby populations can't sustain that kind of loss year on year.

Mama wallaby and her joey hit on the Wakehurst Parkway.

Python smashed on road

Don't Remove Their Home to Improve Yours

Everyone wants good views and minimal leaf-litter in their yards these days.  This seems to equate to tearing down every tree in sight. What people need to remember is that trees are more than just trees - they are homes to many little creatures such as birds, sugar-gliders, micro-bats and possums.  When their home is torn down they need to find alternate accommodation which puts them in danger.  They have to cross roads into other animals' territories and sometimes they will try to make a new home in your roof!  Trees are beautiful in their own right.  Enjoy them as part of the view and respect the homes of all critters.  

Possum mum and twin babies lost their home when their tree was torn down for better views.

Baby tawny frogmouths - home tree chopped down

Homeless flying fox pup - roosting trees 'pruned'...

If you follow these simple rules, you will be saving our wildlife for Christmas this year and for many more Christmasses in the future.

Be responsible, be safe and be a good human.

Merry Christmas and have a wonderful and wild 2016!!!

From the team at Southern Cross Wildlife Care

By Lynleigh Greig
Southern Cross Wildlife Care

 Polo by the Sea to Return to Palm Beach in 2016

Your next chance to see all the action and social highlights of Urban Polo in Sydney is Palm Beach on 9 January 2016! 

Tickets are on sale now to UPA Members, and to the public via Ticketek. Visit the Polo by the Sea website for more details:www.polobythesea.com.au

 Seniors Toy Repair Group needs your help

Volunteers are sought to help out on Wednesday mornings (7.30am to midday) at the group's workshed in Ingleside. Volunteers need their own transport and be willing to sort and clean toys that are picked up at different collection points on the Northern Beaches. 

Prospective volunteers can email Mary Kitchen to arrange a visit to the workshed. To arrange a donation pickup please call Terry Cook on 0410 597 327 or email himFind out more about this great community group HERE

New Season for Sailability Pittwater 

Sailability Pittwater is a volunteer organisation which provides sailing for people with a disability. Our main recreational sailing activities are at Rowland Reserve, Bayview, and we run competitive sailing for people with a disability out of RPAYC Newport.

We are currently looking for new volunteers for our Saturday morning program at Rowland Reserve and Tuesdays at RPA. Visit our website for more information at  www.sailability.org/au/pittwater or call John on 9982 5656

  

New Years Eve Fireworks at Bayview

New Years Eve Fireworks for 2015! Two sessions 9.00pm and 12.00pm at Rowland Reserve Bayview

31st Dec 2015: 11:59pm - 12:10am

Celebrate New Years Eve with family, friends and picnics at this year's Fireworks Spectacular at Rowland Reserve, Bayview.

There are two times scheduled for the fireworks, which include a family friendly session at 9.00pm, followed by the 12.00pm session to bring in 2016.

Pittwater Council requests that members of the public comply with the Fireworks Exclusion Zone at Rowland Reserve.

Rowland Reserve has been declared by Pittwater Council as an Alcohol Prohibited Zone on New Year’s Eve, which will come into effect from 31 December 2015 until 6.00am 1 January 2016.

 Beware of scammers delivering malware this Christmas

17 December 2015 - ACCC: Media Release

Watch out for fake parcel delivery scams arriving in your inbox this Christmas, after $80,000 was reported lost to the ACCC this year, with 1,360 complaints. We’ve received over 100 reports of this scam already this December – more than last December, with only half the month gone. The ACCC is also seeing a significant increase in both personal and commercial information loss being reported to this scam, with over 350 reports this year compared to 250 in 2014.

“Scammers take advantage of the busy Christmas season to send you emails about a ‘missed parcel delivery’, purportedly from trusted services such as Australia Post or FedEx. The emails may be personalised with your name and address and look to be from a legitimate company complete with fraudulent logos,” ACCC Deputy Chair Delia Rickard warned.

“The email may mention a fee will be charged while they hold your undelivered item. Scammers ask you to open an attachment or download a file to retrieve your parcel. If you follow these instructions, an executable file (.exe) will load on to your computer and install ransomware as soon as it is opened.”

“Ransomware is a type of malware that freezes your computer and demands a ransom for you to be able to access your computer again. Scammers commonly ask for bitcoins or ask you to transfer money by wire transfer. Even if you pay the fee, there is no guarantee that your computer will be unlocked,” Ms Rickard said.

If you receive an email about a package, don’t open any attachments or download files. Regularly back-up your computer’s data on a separate hard drive. Follow these steps to protect yourself this Christmas.”

Example of a scam email

Protect yourself

Australia Post will put a notice in your letter box if a package was undeliverable. Delete any email claiming to be from Australia Post about an undelivered package.

Do not click on links or download files in emails you receive out of the blue - especially if they are executable (.exe) files or zip files. These files are likely to contain malware.

If you are suspicious about a ‘missed’ parcel delivery, call the company directly to verify that the correspondence is genuine. Independently source the contact details through an internet search or phone book – do not rely on numbers provided.

Buy yourself (or your business) a stand-alone hard drive for Christmas. These have become relatively inexpensive and can save you a lot if your computer is infected by malware or ransomware.

Regularly back-up your computer’s data on a separate hard drive. If your computer is infected by malware or ransomware you can restore the factory settings and easily re-install all of your software and data.

You can report scams to the ACCC via Scamwatch or by calling 1300 795 995. If the scammer has posed as a legitimate company, you should also report the incident to them. You can find more information on post scams on the Australia Post website 

Pittwater Ocean Swim Series 2015 -2016

The Bilgola ocean swim on Sydney's Northern Beaches will kick off the Pittwater Ocean Swim Series with a 1.5km swim at the picturesque location on Sunday 13 December.

According to Rob Berry, one of the Pittwater Series organisers, there will be ocean swims at Bilgola 13 December, Newport 3 January, Avalon 17 January, Mona Vale 24 January and the Big Swim (Palm Beach to Whale Beach) on 31 January.

"Not only will competitors in the Pittwater Ocean Series be competing in one of the most scenic beach areas you will find anywhere, they will go in the draw for a fabulous prize if they complete three of the five swims in the series.

"It doesn't matter what time you record you will still go in the draw for the prize. So, anyone who does the required number of swims can win," he added.

The major prize offered for the Pittwater Ocean Swim Series includes a trip for two to Byron Bay to compete in the Byron Bay Ocean Swim Classic, staying at the BayRoyal Luxury Apartments for three nights. Return air fares are included sponsored by Travel View Avalon.

Pittwater Series swims:
o Dec 13 - Bilgola
o Jan 3 - Newport
o Jan 17 - Avalon
o Jan 24 - Mona Vale
o Jan 31 - Palm-Whale Beach
Online entries at:  www.oceanswims.com.au

 Beware of button battery danger under the Christmas tree

15 December 2015: NSW Dept. Health

As presents are ripped open to reveal the latest electronic toys and devices this Christmas button batteries should be kept out of children’s reach, NSW Health has warned. 

Every year, around 100 children as young as 12 months of age are treated at NSW hospital emergency departments after swallowing button batteries, which can cause serious health concerns or even death if not immediately treated.

The batteries which cause the most damage are silver and shiny and about the size of a five cent coin (20mm). 

Dr John Curotta, Head of the Department of Ear Nose and Throat Surgery at the Children’s Hospital at Westmead, said button batteries could stick in the throat and cause severe injury including alkali burns, perforation, infection and internal bleeding.

“If a child swallows a button battery it is an emergency, and that child must receive immediate medical attention,” Dr Curotta said. “They should not be given food or drink and vomiting should not be induced.

“Surgery or endoscopies may be carried out to remove button batteries that become stuck. 

“Prevention is key so it’s important that parents and other carers make sure that toys, devices or equipment that require button batteries such as remote controls, keyboards, musical devices and digital thermometers are thoroughly checked to ensure the batteries are safely secured and can’t be accessed by small children.”

People should also remember not to leave packets of replacement batteries or used batteries lying around the house. They should instead be locked away so that small children cannot put them in their mouths. Even when “flat” these batteries still have enough charge in them to cause severe internal injury.

In many cases, children swallowing button batteries went undiagnosed for days.

“If parents have not seen their child physically swallow the battery, they often don’t realise what is causing their child’s illness,” Dr Curotta said.

“If in any doubt at all, take your child to an emergency department immediately. Every minute counts and the button battery must be removed as soon as possible through surgery before it causes long-term damage. 

“It’s better to be safe than sorry so take that extra care this Christmas to keep button batteries out of reach. We all want to remember Christmas 2015 for the right reasons.”

NSW Fair Trading Commissioner Rod Stowe reiterated the need for parents and carers to be vigilant about the presence of button batteries in the home.

“Even batteries that are no longer working in an appliance are still dangerous to a child when discarded, so safe disposal is a must,” Commissioner Stowe said.

 Safer Streets Round 2 now open

17 December 2015: Media Release - The Hon Michael Keenan MP, Minister for Justice, Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on Counter-Terrorism

Today I am pleased to announce that grant applications are now open for Round 2 of the Coalition Government’s Safer Streets Programme.

The Safer Streets Programme delivers on the Australian Government’s $50 million election commitment for effective local solutions to crime hot-spots and anti-social behaviour through a grants programme focussed on improving safety through crime prevention.

The Government recognises that local solutions are often the best way to deal with local issues.

That is why this Government is providing funding to local communities in areas identified as having a crime or anti-social problem. Funding to successful applicants will boost safety and deter crime through the installation of security measures including closed circuit television cameras and better lighting.

More than $19 million in funding has already been awarded under Round 1 of the Programme for projects across 150 locations to deliver security enhancements.

Importantly, the Safer Streets Programme redirects proceeds of crime– money and assets confiscated from criminals - to fund these local crime prevention projects. This means that the crimes of yesterday are helping to prevent the crimes of tomorrow.

Round 2 of the Safer Streets Programme will invest up to $29.4 million in individual grants for local government organisations and eligible incorporated not-for-profit organisations, community groups, and chambers of commerce to boost community safety and crime prevention initiatives across Australia.

The funding will be made available for:

projects by eligible organisations to install security-related infrastructure or remove environmental characteristics that facilitate street crime or anti-social behaviour in local retail, entertainment and commercial precincts or public parks;

projects by State and Territory Police and Citizen Youth Clubs and Bluelight organisations which provide crime prevention or activity-based engagement programmes for young people who are at risk of criminal or anti-social activity.

Funding will also be available under the Safer Streets Programme for crime prevention projects by Youth Off the Streets and Neighbourhood Watch Australasia.

This programme is already working to improve community safety across Australia by preventing, deterring and detecting crime and antisocial behaviour. Round 2 funding will help boost these efforts.

Applications close at 2:00pm AEDT on 17 February 2016.

Further information on the Safer Streets Programme is available atwww.ag.gov.au. 

To apply, please visitwww.ag.gov.au/CrimePrevention/Pages/ProceedsofCrimeAct

 NBI Respite, Recreation, Support Host Program 2016

Volunteer in 2016!: Is one of your New Years Resolutions to give back to your community in 2016?

Our Host program links children with a disability with a volunteer ‘host’ family for fun and friendship. Host volunteers come from all walks of life and can be singles, couples or families.

As a host volunteer you will have the opportunity to care for a child with a mild disability on a regular basis, usually 1-2 days per month. This can happen in your own home or on an activity in the community.

The host program gives the host child a fun and interactive social experience with another family and also provides their family with a break from their caring responsibilities and the rewards can be amazing!

As a host you will be required to set aside at least one day per month to care for your host child. Prior to matching volunteers with a host child NBI will provide training and will conduct the necessary checks to ensure the safety of the host child.

NBI are looking for more Host families in 2016 and would like to hear from local families who can offer a fun and safe environment.

For more information please contact Louise at NBI on 02 9970 0500 or email louise@nbi.org.au

 Work starting on Northern Beaches Hospital road upgrade

Wednesday, 9 December 2015

Minister for Roads Duncan Gay and local MPs Premier Mike Baird (Manly), Brad Hazzard (Wakehurst), Jonathan O’Dea (Davidson) and Rob Stokes (Pittwater) announced the first stage of work will start next week on road upgrades for the Northern Beaches Hospital.

“This important milestone signifies the NSW Government is getting on with the job of improving infrastructure to support the new hospital,” Minister Gay said.

“The $500 million project will supply essential road access to the hospital and reduce congestion for road users in the area.

“Seeing this work starting will be great because it means we are getting closer to delivering benefits such as improved safety and reduced travel times to motorists.”

“I’m proud we are delivering on our promises, and delivering world-class health care facilities to the Northern Beaches. These road upgrades will ensure the community has easy access to the new state-of-the-art Northern Beaches Hospital when it opens in 2018,” Mr Baird said.

Work will start at the intersection of Wakehurst Parkway and Frenchs Forest Road and will involve removing trees and vegetation, rock excavation and road surface work.

“Getting our new hospital and improved roads to make it easier to get around is a massive plus and something that the local community well deserves,” Mr Hazzard said.

Mr Stokes said work would be carried out from 7am to 6pm on weekdays and from 8am to 1pm on Saturdays from Monday 14 December until late 2017, weather permitting.

Mr O’Dea said three shifts of night work would also be carried out between 7pm and 6am from Monday 14 December to 23 December, weather permitting.

For more information on the project visitrms.nsw.gov.au/projects/sydney-north/northern-beaches-hospital.

DoggieRescue.com

Pet of the Week

Andy
AGE/SEX: 4 years / M
BREED: Rottweiler x
Andy has successfully completed the Hanrob accredited Dog Training School where he stayed for 18 days at their live-in obedience training facility. Andy is a very sweet kissy, affectionate boy who would best suit an active family into jogging or running who also have patience to get him used to suburban life. He is social with other dogs and he is even possum friendly!!! He has a short coat and weighs 28kg.

He comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. His adoption cost is $350. 

For further details or to meet all dogs at call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email monika@DoggieRescue.com. Visit www.DoggieRescue.com to see all our dogs. www.facebook.com/doggierescue 

NSW Government: Have Your Say on Home Building Compensation Fund and New guidelines for Outdoor digital advertising 

Home Building Compensation Fund (HBCF)

Have your say on reform options

What's this about?

The HBCF, formerly known as the Home Warranty Insurance Scheme, is established under the Home Building Act 1989 and is compulsory for all residential building work in NSW for contracts over $20,000.

Insurance under the HBCF provides a safety net for consumers when a builder is unable to, or does not, honour their commitments due to insolvency, death, disappearance, or licence suspension for failing to comply with a court or tribunal money order.

The Discussion Paper provides an overview of the requirements of the HBCF, its current status and the issues it faces. A range of possible reform options are  suggested to provide an opportunity to offer feedback on how to provide an effective and sustainable insurance scheme into the future.

Consultation website

Survey - Date: Dec. 17, 2015 - Feb. 12, 2016 - Time: 12:05am — 11:55pm

New guidelines for digital advertising

What's this about?

The NSW Government is seeking feedback on a proposal to make changes to the guidelines for outdoor advertising and signage in transport corridors. 

The proposed changes update the Transport Corridor Outdoor Advertising and Signage Guidelines to introduce specific criteria for new electronic signs. 

Transport corridors include major roads or railway corridors and land owned, occupied or managed by Roads and Maritime Services or Sydney Trains/NSW TrainLink. 

Have your say

Submit your feedback by 31 January 2016 by filling out the onlineform or write to:

Metropolitan Delivery CBD, Department of Planning & EnvironmentGPO Box 39, Sydney NSW 2001

Exhibition Date: Dec. 11, 2015 - Jan. 31, 2016

Department of Planning and Environment

23-33 Bridge Street Sydney 2000

More Information: information@planning.nsw.gov.au 1300 305 695 

 Agency Website  Consultation Website  

 Help to Build Barrenjoey High School's Future

BHS are now in full swing with their latest fundraising project which is the building of The Barrenjoey Community Performance Space! 

Designed by renowned local architect Richard Cole - this acoustically designed purpose built space will seat an audience of 200, and will play host to many Community and School performing arts programs such as dance, drama, musical concerts, film nights, lectures and so much more! 

BHS need your support Community! 

If you think you can help, please call Barrenjoey High School 02 99188811 or visit their website www.barrenjoeyhighschool.com.au 

Or leave a message here and we'll get in touch!

More information to follow. This is what we've all been waiting for!

Top; external front of the Barrenjoey Community Performance Space - end of phase 3 – completion

 Children's Books For Bear Cottage

A local Manly writer, Terri Cracknell, has written and Illustrated four fabulous children's books that would make great gifts for Christmas!

Books retail for $12 and all profits from sales of the books go to Bear Cottage!

The books can be bought directly by emailingterrazzo@iprimus.com.au and are also available from bookshops and the Manly Art Gallery & Museum.

 Creative Creatures Film Festival 2016

Theme 2016

New image or reference to be included in your 3 minute edit is to relate to: “recycling” (plus one only of the previous year items of rabbit, wave or apple)

NOTE: All films must be created specifically for this festival rather than appropriating existing material 

Click here to Register online 

To enter please fill in the registration form and pay the registration fee of $30.00

Your registration code will be sent to you on receipt of payment.

Your entry must be delivered to the Avalon Beach Bowling Club on or by January 23, 2016. (look for the recycling bin!) 

The final will be held Sunday February 21 at Avalon Beach Bowling Club. There will be a massive even bigger tent if rain is heaven sent and films are shown on a 20 metre square LED screen in rain, hale or shine! 

Gates open 1pm - Films start 5pm “Willbe” trophy Presentation 7pm

Submit your entry as a .Mov file on usb or cd and deliver to:

Katy Young c/o Avalon Beach Bowling Club by January 23 2016

What you could win!

Entrants 16+ Years

First prize – $1,000.00, Second prize – $750.00, Third prize – $500.00

Entrants 5 – 15 Years

First prize – $500.00, Second prize – $350.00, Third prize – $250.00

Once again our celebrity judges will be stellar and like the first year, of the highest calibre.

More information at: www.creativecreaturesfilmfestival.2016

Tax Deductible Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade Building Fund

By Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade

Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade is an entirely volunteer NSW Rural Fire Service station located on Sydney's northern beaches.
We are responsible for protecting people and property from bushfire in the Davidson, French Forest, Forestville and Killarney Heights area, which includes over 10,000 homes. We also assist in search and rescues, storm damage and other incidents whenever called upon.

Our Brigade has more than 100 volunteers who commit thousands of hours every year to the service of our community. Our volunteers are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Last year the Brigade contributed over 9,500 hours in service of the community.

Why We Need Your Help
In recent years, the Brigade has outgrown the current station, which is unable to adequately accommodate our volunteers, vehicles and equipment. As such, we are embarking on a building project, which will:
• Add two additional fire truck garages (doubling our firefighting capacity),
• Provide a dedicated education room for the public and a training facility to ensure our volunteers receive the best training to help better serve the community.

How you can help
We need your help to raise a further $150,000. The State government has committed substantial funding to the building project. However, there is a shortfall of $150,000 we need to raise to ensure our project is undertaken and ready for Fire Season 2016/17.

We hold deductible gift recipient status. Any donation you make to us is tax deductible and we will issue you a receipt which indicates this. You can give a tax deductible donation:

1. Online through Chuffed: www.chuffed.org/project/buyabrick 
2. By EFT by direct deposit to: Account Name - Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade Gift Fund Account, BSB: 032-299 Account number: 111245,
3. By Cheque made payable to the Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade, orCash, posted to PO Box 128, Belrose West NSW 2085.

Your help in raising $150,000 is greatly appreciated and will help us better serve and protect.

Thank you!
Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade.

 BUY A 2016 DOGGIE RESCUE CALENDAR AND SAVE A FURRY LIFE

The much loved Doggie Rescue calendar is back, and this year features the adorable Maeko as the cover star. Maeko is one of 11,466 dogs that have been saved from death row through the tireless hard work and dedication of Sydney’s largest private NO KILL animal welfare organisation. These 2016 calendars represent so much more than dates on page, each and every one contributes directly to saving the lives of our best friends.

Maeko was rescued from one of the many pounds around NSW and he represents what happens when abandoned and unloved pets are given a second chance at life thanks to founder and CEO Monika Biernacki; 

“The number of dogs facing death row every day in Australia is truly shocking. These beautiful animals all deserve the opportunity to find their forever home and I am so proud that over 11,000 of them are now happily part of their new families”.

The Doggie Rescue calendar forms the main fundraiser for this well respected charity, and with all proceeds going straight back to the organisation, it means that many, many more lives will be saved. If all the calendars find their way into homes around Australia, that represents more than 1200 dogs provided with food, shelter and basic veterinary costs.

There are literally thousands of heartbreaking stories behind these animals, but it is the heartwarming result of every new adoption that provides the drive that keeps Monika and her dedicated volunteers going;

“Doggie Rescue was created to provide a viable NO KILL alternative in Sydney and to educate the public on their lifelong responsibilities when owning a dog. Dogs are not an impulse purchase and people need to become educated about where their new addition has come from. Rescue dogs are very special, most adoptees tell us that in actual fact, the rescue dog has saved them! There is nothing like the love and dedication of a rescued animal. ”

The 2016 DoggieRescue calendar costs just $15 and makes the perfect Christmas gift for friends and family. It is available online at www.DoggieRescue.com.au or can be purchased by calling 9486 3133 or by visiting the shelter at Ingleside.

www.doggierescue.com/2016calendar.htm

 

 LEGO AT THE LIBRARY

Local children will have the chance to join a club specialising in one of the most enduring playthings of childhood. Mona Vale Library has started a Lego club on the first Sunday of each month from 2pm to 4pm. Next is January 3rd, 2016. The club is open to children aged between seven and twelve years of age, with younger children welcome with parental supervision. If you are interested in attending a Lego at the Library session contact the library on 9970 1622 or book in person at the library, 1 Park Street, Mona Vale.

 

Click on logo above to visit their website.

 Gone Fishing Gallery at Waterfront Store Church Point

Open again TODAY in the top room Waterfront Store

Open mainly weekends as an addition to the waterfront cafe. 

Keep up to date on their Facebook page

Bushcare in Pittwater 
For further information or to confirm the meeting details for below groups, please contact Council's Bushcare Officer on 9970 1367
Volunteers Bushcare will recommence in 2016 - details published next year

BUSHCARE SCHEDULES 
Where we work                      Which day                              What time 

Avalon     
Angophora Reserve             3rd Sunday                         8:30 - 11:30am 
Avalon Dunes                        1st Sunday                         8:30 - 11:30am 
Avalon Golf Course              2nd Wednesday                3 - 5:30pm 
Careel Creek                         4th Saturday                       8:30 - 11:30am 
Toongari Reserve                 3rd Saturday                       9 - 12noon (8 - 11am in summer) 
Bangalley Headland            2nd Sunday                         9 to 12noon 

Bayview     
Winnererremy Bay                 4th Sunday                        9 to 12noon 

Bilgola     
North Bilgola Beach              3rd Monday                        9 - 12noon 
Algona Reserve                      1st Saturday                      9 - 12noon 
Plateau Park                            1st Friday                           8:30 - 11:30am 

Church Point     
Browns Bay Reserve             1st Tuesday                      9 - 12noon 
McCarrs Creek Reserve       Contact Bushcare Officer     To be confirmed 

Clareville     
Old Wharf Reserve                 3rd Saturday                      8 - 11am 

Elanora     
Kundibah Reserve                   4th Sunday                      8:30 - 11:30am 

Mona Vale     
Mona Vale Beach Basin          1st Saturday                    8 - 11am 
Mona Vale Dunes                     2nd Saturday+3rd Thursday     8:30 - 11:30am 

Newport     
Bungan Beach                          4th Sunday                       9 - 12noon 
Crescent Reserve                    3rd Sunday                       9 - 12noon 
North Newport Beach              4th Saturday                     8:30 - 11:30am 
Porter Reserve                          2nd Saturday                    8 - 11am 

North Narrabeen     
Irrawong Reserve                     3rd Saturday                     2 - 5pm 

Palm Beach     
North Palm Beach Dunes      3rd Saturday                      9 - 12noon 

Scotland Island     
Catherine Park                          2nd Sunday                       10 - 12:30pm 
Elizabeth Park                           1st Saturday                       9 - 12noon 
Pathilda Reserve                      3rd Saturday                      9 - 12noon 

Warriewood     
Warriewood Wetlands             1st Sunday                         8:30 - 11:30am 

Whale Beach     
Norma Park                               1st Friday                            9 - 12noon 

Western Foreshores     
Coopers Point, Elvina Bay      2nd Sunday                        10 - 1pm 
Rocky Point, Elvina Bay           1st Monday                          9 - 12noon

The NSW Government Gazette 

The New South Wales Government Gazette is the official channel for the circulation of Proclamations, Regulations, Government Notices, Private Legal Advertisements andther matters required to be published in the Government Gazette under the Statutes of New South Wales Government. The NSW Government Gazette contains: New South Wales Legislation, Notices (public and official announcements), and Official Government Notices from the New South Wales Government and Local Government Agencies, Cities and Shires. The NSW Government Gazette is available online on theN.S.W. Government website from 2pm each Friday.

 December 13 - 19, 2015: Issue 244

 Articles This Week

Front Page Issue 244:  

Palm Beach Sailing Club's Christmas Sail 2015 Blessed with Great Winds - Good Fun Family Event

SNB Branch Lead After Day One of 2015 Interbranch Championships by SLS NSW

Paralympic Gold Medallists Daniel Fitzgibbon and Liesl Tesch have won the Sailing World Cup Melbourne - Report by AST

2015 Extreme Sailing Series Brings RPAYC Champions Together - First Regatta for Local Crew Proves Capabilities

Pittwater Camera Club Images of the Year 2015: Awards

Our Christmas Wish - by Southern Cross Wildlife Care

Destination Sydney and Out of Quarantine: Manly Art Gallery and Museum's Summer 2015-2016 Exhibitions and Events

Reflections by George Repin: RUSSIAN NEW YEAR

Aquatics: Club Marine Pittwater to Coffs fleet surges before entries close (December 15) by Lisa Ratcliff

Pictures: 2015 In Pictures: People - we've run a few Profiles this year, met many wonderful folk and followed many volunteers stories of their work

DIY Ideas: Deck Your Halls and Garden with The Spirit of Christmas

Food: Make Your Own Treats For Christmas Gifts - Jaffa Rum Balls, White Christmas, Gingerbread People, Spicy Nut Mix, Strawberries Dipped in Christmas, Scottish Shortbread, Spanish Polverones, Melomakarona (Greek Christmas Honey Cookies), Kourabiedes (Greek Butter Biscuits), Italian Lemon Shortbread Squares (Shortbread con crema al limone)

Artist of the Month: December 2015 - Michelle Ball creates and share beautiful paintings of our offshore areas that evoke the spirit of this land's innate phoenix nature

Profile: Richard Cole Avalon Beach SLSC President promises Santa is coming to Carols by the Sea 2015! - shares a few insights on his favourite Architecture and more on all happening On The Beach this summer 

History: Early Pittwater Paddlers, Oarsmen, Rowers and Scullers: The Williams Family - of Bayview, Mosman, and a few South Sea Islands - Cedric Moreton Williams was a Champion Rower,  who won so many years in a row, came from generations of shipowners and shipbuilders

 Beko Best of the Best 2016

Crews interested in being selected for the Beko Best of the Best 2016 Surf Boat Challenge need to get their nominations in by Sunday night, Dec. 13th!

The “Beko Best of the Best” is the premier surf boat event for crews (in all divisions) from each of the Regional/Branch Boat Series, fighting it out for the honour of being crowned the “Beko Best of the Best” surf boat crew for the 2015/2016 season. 

The Beko Best of the Best Surf Boat Challenge will be held on Saturday 2 April 2016 hosted by North Narrabeen SLSC (Sydney Northern Beaches). Following the success of 2015 the following developments will be on offer; 

1) Significant prize draw available at the finals (exact prizes/value to be confirmed). Prizes must remain the property of the Club/s. Prizes cannot be distributed and/or retained by individual competitors. 

2) A commercial partnership including sponsor stickers for all boats competing in Branch/Regional Boat Series 

3) Branch/Regional Boat Series gains increased exposure with results on dedicated webpage of the SLSNSW website and increased media exposure by linking with the finals 

4) Travel subsidy for crews travelling from Country Branches 12 crews in each division (total of 72 crews), from the 5 Boat Series will be invited to compete in this event. The event will be a Short Course, point score consisting of 6 crews, in each division. The winner being the crew amassing the most points or in the case of a tied up point score, a count back will decide the winner. SLSNSW reserves the right to change the nature of racing for any reason if deemed necessary.

Nomination Form at HERE

 

Church Point works take flight

08 December, 2015

Council has approved the commencement of the next stage of the Church Point Plan of Management including, the realignment of McCarrs Creek Road, a new seawall, boardwalk and a 120 space car park.

Pittwater Mayor Jacqueline Townsend said that she was pleased that Council was ready to go to tender on the design and construction of this major project after working closely with the Church Point and offshore communities regarding a suitable design.

“These works will help to alleviate parking issues in the area as well as improve connections to the commuter wharf and foreshore access via a new boardwalk. It is a decision that has divided the community, but we are working towards achieving a good balance for all involved in the outcome of this project.

Construction companies are invited to put forward a tender for the design and construction of the approved works.

The project will be funded through loan funding, income generated from user pays car parking, a low interest loan from the state government via the Local Infrastructure Renewal Scheme (LIRS) and reserves from the Special Rate Variation.

Mayor Townsend said the project will address a range of issues identified in the Plan of Management including safety concerns raised by residents on McCarrs Creek Road and the shortage of parking in the area.

“Council has worked hard and will continue to meet the interests of both the on-shore and off-shore communities with this proposal.

“We are committed to creating intergenerational infrastructure that can address the future demands of this important local and regional transport hub and tourist destination.

“Last night’s decision does not end the measures that are needed to meet the demands for this hub; but these works will see Council start to achieve them,” she added.

Tender documents will be available from 15 December 2015.

 Lifejacket Awareness Van Visiting Pittwater

11 December 2015 

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes is encouraging local boat owners to inspect the quality and condition of their lifejackets and visit the NSW Government’s ‘Old 4 New’ lifejacket promotional van this weekend.

The promotional van will be based at Church Point and Bayview this Sunday, 13 December. Experienced staff will be available to talk with boaters about the risks of damaged or inadequate lifejackets, showcase the latest generation products and offer discounts to those interested in purchasing new ones.

Times and locations include; 

• Pittwater Commuter Wharf, Church Point  - Sunday 13 December – 6:00am until 9:00am

• Bayview Park Boat Ramp, Bayview – Sunday 13 December – 2:00pm until 5:00pm

“Lifejackets are a vital part of boating and are proven to save lives,” Rob Stokes said today. 

“With the holiday period upon us – now is the perfect time for all boaters to check their safety gear and ensure it’s up to date. 

“Lifejackets have greatly improved in quality and design over recent years and can now be comfortably worn all day during all on-water activities. 

“The promotional van is visiting key recreational boating areas throughout NSW to talk directly with boaters about the importance of lifejackets and the need to ensure they’re well maintained and easily accessible. 

“If you compare the old bulky lifejackets with modern, slimline ones, you’ll see how much they’ve advanced and how comfortable they are to wear.   

“Nine out of ten people who drowned while boating over recent years weren’t wearing a lifejacket.

“Further information on the ‘Old 4 New’ lifejacket promotional vehicle is available by visiting www.lifejacketwearit.com.au .

"Just like putting on sunscreen – people need to make putting on a lifejacket a regular habit when boating,” Rob Stokes said.

NOTICE

Dear Readers and Contributors

Please be advised that the Final Issue of Pittwater Online News for 2015 will be published on the 20th of December, 2015 – No 245.

The First Issue for 2016 will be published on the 10th of January, 2016 – No 246.

Contributors who wish to list News or New Year Events that falls within those dates are asked to have these in, ready to Publish, by the 18th of December.

We shall not be back in the Office prior to January the 5th 2015 for Contributors wishing to add Items to the January 10th, 2016 Issue. These may still be sent and will be attended to promptly on our return.

Pittwater Online News.

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary 2015

December
Pittwater Place, Mona Vale, 21, 22, 23rd December, 9am to 3pm, Christmas stall, Christmas items, craft and knitwear.

 Palm Beach SLSC NSW Wins Navy Boat Series

December 6, 2015 

Palm Beach has won both the open men’s and women’s National Navy Boat series at Surfers Paradise.

30 crews from three states battled it out in tricky conditions – dozens coming out worse for wear.

38 Points - Men

33 Points – Womens

ASRL SURFBOAT SERIES STRENGTHENS WITH TEAM NAVY ONBOARD

NAVY celebrated its ongoing relationship with surf lifesavers from across Australia with the official launch the 2015/16 Team Navy Australian Surf Rowers League (ASRL) season on the Surfers Paradise 5-6 December 2015.  

The first round of competition in the series marks the start of the eighth year of Navy’s naming rights. More than 300 surf rowers from 60 crews across Australia competed in men’s, women’s, masters’ and junior sections.

Lieutenant Commander Don Hogarth, Manager Team Navy, said the partnership with ASRL was a mutually beneficial one.

He said Team Navy’s relationship with the ASRL allowed surf lifesaving clubs to compete all across Australia and also boosted Navy’s profile, helping gain community support.

“By nurturing the sport, Navy provides the Australian Surf Rowers League with the necessary resources to assist them in recruiting and training lifesavers, both male and female,” LCDR Hogarth said.

The partnership forged with Navy over the last 7 years has provided amazing opportunity for the ASRL to help SLSA in developing the sport. It has also seen many young lifesavers head in the direction of a career in the Navy which is a wonderful outcome.

Bert Hunt, president of the ASRL, said the importance of the relationship could not be underestimated.

The ASRL has more than 3000 volunteer members from across 260 clubs competing in surf boat competitions throughout Australia. All these young people are also jointly members of surf clubs and are visible each weekend of summer patrolling members of the public all around Australia

“The more lifesavers are in the water, the more lives saved,” Mr Hunt said.

“It’s amazing when you think about the synergies between Navy and ASRL, while Navy protects the Australian coastline, the ASRL members help protect the shores of every state and territory around the country.”

Photo from the Team Navy ASRL launch at Surfers Paradise on Sunday 6 December. 

Follow Team Navy ASRL on Facebook

 Government cost shifting onto councils tops $670 million

December 11, 2015: LGNSW

NSW councils are bearing an additional burden of more than $670 million each year as a result of cost-shifting from the State and Federal Government, a new report has found.

The Local Government NSW Cost Shifting Survey, conducted every two years, has identified some $670 million in costs passed on to councils - primarily by the NSW Government - in the 2013/14 financial year.

The practice - known in Canada as "offloading" and in New Zealand as "community subsidisation of central government" - involves one sphere of government shifting responsibility for services, assets or regulation to another sphere without providing sufficient funding to support the shift.

And the report has found the cost-shifting burden borne by NSW councils has increased by $88 million since the last survey, which covered the 2011/12 financial year.  

"One of the greatest ironies is that we're able to quantify this figure on the same day that the NSW Government is off arguing against federal-state cost-shifting at the Council of Australian Governments (COAG)," LGNSW President Keith Rhoades said.

"It certainly seems that what is good for the goose is not good for the gander in this case. 

"These latest cost-shifting figures come hard on the heels of the IPART announcement of the tiny 1.8% rate cap, and illustrate the ever-increasing financial squeeze on councils in NSW.

"What we've got is a real triple whammy: a rate peg of just 1.8%, cost-shifting to the tune of more than $670 million each year, and on the federal front, a freeze on the indexation of Funding Assistance Grants that is costing the NSW local government $289 million. 

"So it's more than a bit rich that councils - even the majority who met the financial benchmarks set by the NSW Government - have been unfairly labelled not fit for the future and are set to be forcibly amalgamated.

"It's not the councils that are broken, it's the funding system they're forced to work under."  

Cr Rhoades said the Government's arguments that amalgamations would financially strengthen councils were a complete furphy.

"Amalgamating two financially squeezed councils just results in one large council under even greater financial stress," he said.

"LGNSW has argued throughout the entire reform process that we need to fix the funding first - well before we start worrying about developer driven structural reform via council amalgamations. 

"This new data on cost-shifting is powerful reason for the State and Federal Governments to stop asking councils to keep doing more and more with less.

"And if they're serious about strengthening local government and communities in NSW, they'll start by resolving the systemic funding issues that bedevil councils, not by spending taxpayers' money forcing amalgamations."

The full report, including a breakdown of participating councils, isavailable to review here. 

 Summer safety campaign kicks in $5000 to Australia’s Surf Life Saving Clubs

10 December 2015

Every surf life-saving club across the nation will receive $5000 to improve safety equipment and better-prevent drownings this summer as part of the latest round of Commonwealth funding, Minister for Sport Sussan Ley announced today. 

Launching this summer’s Beach Safety Equipment Fund at Sydney’s Coogee beach, Minister Ley said the Government was providing $8 million over five years to the nation’s 311 surf lifesaving clubs to help prevent drowning deaths at our beaches.

“Under this Fund about $25,000 over five years is being provided to every Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) club, so they can purchase essential rescue equipment, first aid and medical supplies,” Ms Ley said. 

“Here in Coogee, they will be using this year’s allocation to buy and update Personal Protective Equipment including life jackets and helmets, first aid kits and other rescue and lifesaving equipment. 

“Around the country we’re also seeing the purchase of defibrillators, rescue tubes and two way radios, allowing our surf life savers to perform the amazing work they do each and every swimming season.

“Today’s event is also a chance for me to remind beachgoers on the importance of swimming between the flags – by far the safest option to enjoy a seaside swim – yet figures indicate just 45 per cent of people swim at patrolled beaches during patrol hours.

“A recent National Coastal Safety Report found four-in-ten coastal drowning deaths occurred more than five kilometres from a surf lifesaving club, and that three-quarters of people quizzed could not identify a hazardous rip current.

“While we still have a way to go to reduce drowning deaths, I’m pleased to see the gear purchased through this Beach Safety Equipment programme helps save lives. 

“The Australian Water Safety Council has an aspirational goal to reduce drowning deaths by 50 per cent by the year 2020; it’s something the Government supports and I believe everyone can do their bit.”

The Beach Safety Equipment Fund is in addition to annual Government funding of around $8.5 million to support water safety in Australia, which is being provided to the Royal Life Saving Society - Australia, SLSA, AUSTSWIM and Laurie Lawrence Swimming Enterprises.

Additional information on Commonwealth funding for water safety is available at the Department of Health's website

 Barrenjoey Peninsula Week of Golf 2016

Held: 8th Feb 2016: 8am - 5pm

Join over 600 women on the Northern Beaches to participate in an outstanding Golf tournament.

For a small entry fee, golfers have the opportunity to enjoy 7 beautiful Northern Beaches Golf Courses – Bayview, Cromer, Long Reef, Manly, Mona Vale, Monash and Wakehurst.

Enter online now: www.barrenjoeyweekofgolf.com

  

New Years Eve Fireworks - midnight

New Years Eve Fireworks for 2015! Two sessions 9.00pm and 12.00pm at Rowland Reserve Bayview

31st Dec 2015: 11:59pm - 12:10am

Celebrate New Years Eve with family, friends and picnics at this year's Fireworks Spectacular at Rowland Reserve, Bayview.

There are two times scheduled for the fireworks, which include a family friendly session at 9.00pm, followed by the 12.00pm session to bring in 2016.

Pittwater Council requests that members of the public comply with the Fireworks Exclusion Zone at Rowland Reserve.

Rowland Reserve has been declared by Pittwater Council as an Alcohol Prohibited Zone on New Year’s Eve, which will come into effect from 6.00am 31 December 2014 until 6.00am 1 January 2015.

 Northern Beaches Concert Band Appointment of New Band Director 

Northern Beaches Concert Band is delighted to welcome its new band director, Ms Sarah Shaw.  Sarah has been appointed, following the resignation of Matthew Browne, due to illness.  

Matthew led Monatones, now the Northern Beaches Concert Band (NBCB) for almost 20 years and his dedication, sense of humour and commitment will be sorely missed.

Sarah is an experienced popular local band director who is brimming with ideas for the band.  “Playing in a band is a wonderful, rewarding way to improve your skills in a fun and supportive environment.  I am very excited about working with such an inclusive and motivated group of musicians”, said Sarah.  

Northern Beaches Concert Band will kick off 2016 with a new repertoire on Wednesday 3rd February 2016 at 7.30pm at the Pittwater High School Music Room, Mona Street, Mona Vale.NBCB encourages all those adult players out there to dust off their instruments and come and try the band out.  The band is always looking for more flutes, clarinets, saxophones, French horns, euphoniums, tubas, trombones, etc.  There are easy parts, more difficult parts – something for everybody!  

Enquiries: 0414 560 263 (Denise Morgan)

 Have your say on ATO’s digital move

10 December, 2015: National Seniors

The Australian Tax Office (ATO) is seeking feedback from the community on its plan to transition to fully digital services.

The proposed initiative will phase out paper transactions and require most of the community to use digital services to send and receive information and payments to the ATO.

"More and more, people are carrying out their day-to-day business online and in the last couple of years a focus of ours has been to make sure our digital services meet the community’s needs,” ATO Deputy Commissioner Michelle Crosby said.

Alternative services will be available for people who are unable to go digital and who qualify for an exemption.

The ATO will provide additional time and support for those needing help to make the shift from paper to digital, she said.

To provide your feedback, visit the ATO’s Let’s Talk consultation site before 15 January 2016 at lets-talk.ato.gov.au/Digitalbydefault

National Seniors will also provide feedback to the consultation and outline the concerns for seniors who are not online.

 Mature age workers to get free career check-up

10 December, 2015: National Seniors

A free career advisory service helping mature workers plan for the next stage of their careers was launched this week.

The new pilot program, Skills Checkpoint Pilot, is targeted at mature workers aged 45 to 54 to help them take stock of their abilities and identify opportunities to gain new skills or employment.

The pilot will use selected Australian Apprenticeship Support Network (AASN) providers to deliver services to benefit around 2,000 employed people in certain states and territories.

Skills Checkpoint will provide mature workers with advice on how they can use their existing skills to gain new jobs or help them understand what skills and training may be required if they wish to change careers.

Minister for Vocational Education and Skills, Luke Hartsuyker, said the government was committed to helping mature aged workers remain in the workforce for as long as they wanted.

“Often as people enter middle age they are thinking about changing jobs or industries but may not be sure about what they have to offer a new employer or what it will take to win a job,” Hartsuyker said.

“This is especially the case where people may have worked in the one job for a long time or where an industry is undergoing significant change.”

For more information on the Skills Checkpoint Pilot go to www.education.gov.au/skillscheckpointpilot

Monster Raffle Supports Local Boardrider Clubs

In 2015/16, Surfing Australia is again running the Monster Raffle in conjunction with the Original Source Australian Boardriders Battle.

Last year, over $27,000 was raised with all proceeds benefiting more than 108 of Australia's boardriders clubs. This year, we want to go bigger so we can give back to the clubs who help make Australian surfing what it is today.

So... grab your ticket today for $5 and not only are you giving back to Australian Boardriders clubs, but you'll also be in the running to WIN a brand new Toyota RAV4 Cruiser valued at $55,000 plus thousands of dollars' worth of other cool gear from Milwaukee, Oakley, Original Source, FCS, Nikon and Boost Mobile!

Buy Tickets at: www.monsterraffle.com.au

Mona Vale Chamber of Commerce Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Fundraising Dinner

The Mona Vale Chamber of Commerce is pleased to invite the Northern Beaches Community to enjoy a delightful dinner and fabulous guest speakers as we raise funds to support Mona Vale Hospital.  
The guest speakers are Dr Glenn Singleman and his wife Heather Swan.  Together they have some truly unbelievable feats in the world of base-jumping and wingsuit flying, but are also highly sought after motivational speakers who will inspire us to overcome whatever fears are holding us back from achieving our goals.

Date: Friday 19 February 2016
Time: 6:30pm
Venue: Mona Vale Golf Club
Tickets: $110 each or $1000 for table of 10.
All proceeds will go to the Mona Vale Hospital Auxillary to fund equipment purchases for the Mona Vale Rehabilitation Centre.
Tickets: www.monavalechamber.org/events

Southern Cross Wildlife Care 

       Critter of the Month - December 2015 - January 2016:  

Our Christmas Wish

It's been a month of sad little patients being brought in with injuries and afflictions that were all caused by human irresponsibility....

Littering.  Our volunteers spent days searching for a poor swamp-hen that had a Coke-can stuck to its mandible which meant it couldn't eat.   

Irresponsible Pet ownership.  Our volunteers spent hours nursing baby animals back to health after they became victims of cats wandering about at night.  

Bad driving.  Our volunteers have dragged the limp bodies of dead or dying wallabies off the roads after they were struck by vehicles.  

Thoughtlessness.  Our volunteers have been swamped with injured birds and homeless possums after their trees were cut down without a thought for the destruction of their homes.  

With Christmas coming up, our wish is for humans to start living responsibly.  Here are a few ways you can start:

Bin It

Eating, drinking, picnicking - we all love to do it!  Especially in beautiful areas such as the park, the beach and the lake-side.  But those areas won't stay beautiful for long if we just toss our garbage on the ground or into the water.  This confronting image should be enough to make us all want to clean up our act:

Swamp hen wearing litter... Photo by Andrea Louisa Glazier. 

If you're fishing, make sure you take all your fishing hooks and line with you.  Many of our sea-birds get horribly entangled in fishing line or swallow fish-hooks that have not been properly discarded.  

Radiography of a sea-gull that has ingested a discarded fish-hook.

Cats in After Dark

Be a good owner and do the right thing - for your pet and for our wildlife.  You may not like to think of your fur-baby as a killer, but they certainly do a lot of damage to our nocturnal wildlife.  A cat's saliva is a lot like venom to many of our little native animals and without treatment, they will die within hours of being in kitty's mouth.  Similarly, there are dangers after dark for your cat.  Every day I see at least one that has been a victim to car-strike.  There are also pythons, powerful owls and foxes out there that pose a threat to a wondering kitty-cat.  If you love them, keep them indoors - particularly at night.

Baby ringtail, baby swamp snake and baby bandicoot - all victims of cat-attack.

Drive to Keep Them Alive

Driving at night means that you are more likely to encounter our nocturnal wildlife.  Between dusk and dawn, slow down and stay alert.  If there is no oncoming traffic, use your brights to keep an eye on the road ahead.  If you do happen to hit an animal, contact your local Wildlife Rescue Organisation immediately.  If you hit a marsupial, stop to check its pouch for joeys - they can still survive even if the mother is killed.  

Wildlife Roadkill statistics show that 727 wallabies were killed on the Wakehurst Parkway since 2010!  That's just on one road!!!  Our wallaby populations can't sustain that kind of loss year on year.

Mama wallaby and her joey hit on the Wakehurst Parkway.

Python smashed on road

Don't Remove Their Home to Improve Yours

Everyone wants good views and minimal leaf-litter in their yards these days.  This seems to equate to tearing down every tree in sight. What people need to remember is that trees are more than just trees - they are homes to many little creatures such as birds, sugar-gliders, micro-bats and possums.  When their home is torn down they need to find alternate accommodation which puts them in danger.  They have to cross roads into other animals' territories and sometimes they will try to make a new home in your roof!  Trees are beautiful in their own right.  Enjoy them as part of the view and respect the homes of all critters.  

Possum mum and twin babies lost their home when their tree was torn down for better views.

Baby tawny frogmouths - home tree chopped down

Homeless flying fox pup - roosting trees 'pruned'...

If you follow these simple rules, you will be saving our wildlife for Christmas this year and for many more Christmasses in the future.

Be responsible, be safe and be a good human.

Merry Christmas and have a wonderful and wild 2016!!!

From the team at Southern Cross Wildlife Care

By Lynleigh Greig
Southern Cross Wildlife Care

 Have your say on new Central Coast plan

Ministerial Media Release - The Hon. Rob Stokes MP, Minister for Planning

Planning Minister Rob Stokes and Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast Scot MacDonald today released a new draft plan for the region, aimed at growing the local economy, enhancing the community lifestyle and accelerating housing supply.

Mr Stokes said the draft Central Coast Regional Plan will now go on public exhibition for the community to have their say.

“The Central Coast is a beautiful place for people to call home, and this draft plan focuses on revitalising existing areas, providing new homes, new jobs and protecting the local environment,” Mr Stokes said. 

“I encourage the community to take part in this consultation process to help shape the future of the Central Coast.”

Mr MacDonald said the plan laid out the NSW Government’s vision for the region over the next 20 years, and he encouraged the public to get involved. 

“This plan aims to capitalise on the Central Coast’s attractive coastal lifestyle; its proximity to Sydney and the Hunter; and build an even better future for the community,” Mr MacDonald said.

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch welcomed the plan.

“The NSW Government is delivering for the people of the Central Coast with this exciting vision to make our wonderful community and lifestyle even better,” Mr Crouch said. 

The release of the draft plan follows extensive consultation with the community, local councils and other stakeholders. Feedback from this consultation has been used in the draft plan.

The community can make submissions until 28 February and can also provide feedback through an online survey and interactive map. The draft Plan, survey and interactive map can be viewed atwww.planning.nsw.gov.au/centralcoast.

Four goals for the Central Coast

Enhance community lifestyles and accelerate housing supply

A range of new housing options will be made available in existing areas with easy access to public transport, including in and around Gosford city centre, the Gosford to Erina and Tuggerah to Warnervale corridors and local centres across the region.

New land release opportunities will be made available in the Warnervale-Wadalba area and elsewhere in North Wyong. 

Infrastructure in these areas will be delivered as new communities are being created.

Existing centres will be revitalised and a new vibrant centre created at Warnervale, creating more jobs for locals and providing residents access to shops and services.

Grow and diversify the regional economy

The areas with the largest number of jobs on the Central Coast are the Somersby to Erina and Tuggerah to Warnervale Regional Economic Corridors.

The draft plan proposes focusing future infrastructure investment in these areas, to allow them to compete with economic corridors in other regions.

Existing industries including healthcare, education, food production and tourism will be expanded to provide more jobs while there will also be a focus on emerging sectors including renewable energy generation.

The $368 million Gosford Hospital upgrade and a planned $200 million upgrade to Wyong Hospital will also provide more employment opportunities.

Sustain productive land

The NSW Government will work with industry groups, other levels of government, business and the community to grow and sustain the economic productivity of the region’s agricultural and aquaculture sectors.

Protect and manage the natural and cultural environment

Areas with high environmental value will be protected to avoid and minimise impacts of developments on these areas.

The draft plan also proposes protecting water catchments to help sustain high-quality water supplies across the region.

The region’s resilience to natural hazards including flooding will also be increased.

 Polo by the Sea to Return to Palm Beach in 2016

Your next chance to see all the action and social highlights of Urban Polo in Sydney is Palm Beach on 9 January 2016! 

Tickets are on sale now to UPA Members, and to the public via Ticketek. Visit the Polo by the Sea website for more details:www.polobythesea.com.au

 Gone Fishing Gallery at Waterfront Store Church Point

Open again TODAY in the top room Waterfront Store

Open mainly weekends as an addition to the waterfront cafe. 

Keep up to date on their Facebook page

Bushcare in Pittwater 
Council's Cooee Newsletter - November to December 2015:HERE

For further information or to confirm the meeting details for below groups, please contact Council's Bushcare Officer on 9970 1367

BUSHCARE SCHEDULES 
Where we work                      Which day                              What time 

Avalon     
Angophora Reserve             3rd Sunday                         8:30 - 11:30am 
Avalon Dunes                        1st Sunday                         8:30 - 11:30am 
Avalon Golf Course              2nd Wednesday                3 - 5:30pm 
Careel Creek                         4th Saturday                       8:30 - 11:30am 
Toongari Reserve                 3rd Saturday                       9 - 12noon (8 - 11am in summer) 
Bangalley Headland            2nd Sunday                         9 to 12noon 

Bayview     
Winnererremy Bay                 4th Sunday                        9 to 12noon 

Bilgola     
North Bilgola Beach              3rd Monday                        9 - 12noon 
Algona Reserve                      1st Saturday                      9 - 12noon 
Plateau Park                            1st Friday                           8:30 - 11:30am 

Church Point     
Browns Bay Reserve             1st Tuesday                      9 - 12noon 
McCarrs Creek Reserve       Contact Bushcare Officer     To be confirmed 

Clareville     
Old Wharf Reserve                 3rd Saturday                      8 - 11am 

Elanora     
Kundibah Reserve                   4th Sunday                      8:30 - 11:30am 

Mona Vale     
Mona Vale Beach Basin          1st Saturday                    8 - 11am 
Mona Vale Dunes                     2nd Saturday+3rd Thursday     8:30 - 11:30am 

Newport     
Bungan Beach                          4th Sunday                       9 - 12noon 
Crescent Reserve                    3rd Sunday                       9 - 12noon 
North Newport Beach              4th Saturday                     8:30 - 11:30am 
Porter Reserve                          2nd Saturday                    8 - 11am 

North Narrabeen     
Irrawong Reserve                     3rd Saturday                     2 - 5pm 

Palm Beach     
North Palm Beach Dunes      3rd Saturday                      9 - 12noon 

Scotland Island     
Catherine Park                          2nd Sunday                       10 - 12:30pm 
Elizabeth Park                           1st Saturday                       9 - 12noon 
Pathilda Reserve                      3rd Saturday                      9 - 12noon 

Warriewood     
Warriewood Wetlands             1st Sunday                         8:30 - 11:30am 

Whale Beach     
Norma Park                               1st Friday                            9 - 12noon 

Western Foreshores     
Coopers Point, Elvina Bay      2nd Sunday                        10 - 1pm 
Rocky Point, Elvina Bay           1st Monday                          9 - 12noon

 Seniors Toy Repair Group needs your help

Volunteers are sought to help out on Wednesday mornings (7.30am to midday) at the group's workshed in Ingleside. Volunteers need their own transport and be willing to sort and clean toys that are picked up at different collection points on the Northern Beaches. 

Prospective volunteers can email Mary Kitchen to arrange a visit to the workshed. To arrange a donation pickup please call Terry Cook on 0410 597 327 or email himFind out more about this great community group HERE

The NSW Government Gazette 

The New South Wales Government Gazette is the official channel for the circulation of Proclamations, Regulations, Government Notices, Private Legal Advertisements andther matters required to be published in the Government Gazette under the Statutes of New South Wales Government. The NSW Government Gazette contains: New South Wales Legislation, Notices (public and official announcements), and Official Government Notices from the New South Wales Government and Local Government Agencies, Cities and Shires. The NSW Government Gazette is available online on theN.S.W. Government website from 2pm each Friday.

 New Police Recruits For The Northern Beaches

11 December 2015

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes today welcomed the allocation of a further 4 police graduates to the Northern Beaches.

A graduating class of 105 Probationary Constables were sworn in at the NSW Police Academy in Goulburn today and will be deployed to communities right across NSW. 

“It’s great to see more new police officers heading to the northern beaches,” Rob Stokes said today.

“We’re really fortunate to have an outstanding team of police officers on the northern beaches – so these new recruits are in great hands.

“There are very few jobs as physically and mentally demanding as policing.

“On any given day our local police can respond to a massive variety of requests for help – most of which happen behind the scenes and aren’t properly appreciated. 

“Congratulations to all our new recruits and thank you for pursuing such an important profession, “Rob Stokes said

_____________________

New Funding Opportunity For Local Sporting Clubs

7 December 2015

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes is encouraging local sporting clubs to consider applying for funds under the NSW Government’s Local Sport Grants Program.

The new program will see up to $50,000 in grants distributed to local sporting clubs and groups in all 93 electorates across NSW.

Four grant categories are available and aim to cater for various different projects. These can range from purchasing new uniforms, to hosting events and constructing new facilities. 

“This is an exciting new program which aims to provide opportunities for all local sporting clubs”, Rob Stokes said today. 

“Sporting clubs are a huge part of our community and help make Pittwater such a fantastic place to live. 

“Funding is often one of the biggest challenges for many local clubs and this new program is designed to provide support, get more people active and encourage exciting new initiatives. 

“Further information on the different grant categories, and details on how to apply, is available by visitingwww.sportandrecreation.nsw.gov.au .

“Applications are now open and will be received until Thursday 11 February, 2016.

“This is a great opportunity which I encourage all our local sporting clubs to explore,” Rob Stokes said. 

 

Please note Council office hours over the holiday period:

• Thursday 17 December - Closed (from 12pm to 2.30pm)

• Thursday 24 December - Closed

• Friday 25 December - Closed

• Monday 28 December - Closed

• Tuesday 29 December - Open

• Wednesday 30 December - Open

• Thursday 31 December - Open

• Friday 1 January 2016 - New Years' Day

Outside our opening hours you can contact Council on the out-of-hours service by calling 9970 1111 or by visitingwww.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/contact_council

Library opening hours

Mona Vale Library will be closed 24 December and will re-open on Tuesday 29 December. The library will also close at 2pm on 31 December and re-open Saturday 2 January 2016.

Avalon Library will be closed on Friday 25 December and will re-open on Tuesday 29 December. The library will also close Friday 1 January 2016.

Council meetings

Council’s last meeting of the year will be held on Monday 21 December, with meetings resuming on Monday 1 February 2016. The Development Unit will begin meetings at the end of January 2016.

Enliven Pittwater - Summer sessions

Pack a picnic and enjoy the sounds of summer with our series of FREE open-air pop-up music performances. Mona Vale, Newport and Avalon will come alive with relaxing bluegrass, jazz and classical music. Sponsored by Enliven Pittwater, these events feature the Green Mohair Suits, The Bluejays, Pittwater String Trio, The Distant Sons, and Ahava Ensemble. Concerts will run over six sessions from 3 December 2015 until 15 January 2016. Download the Enliven App for the full program.

Summer Sessions: 

Summer Sessions: 17th Dec 2015 5:30pm-7:30pm

Sit, relax and enjoy live bluegrass music at Bert Payne Reserve, Newport Beach

Summer Sessions: 15th Jan 2016 12:00pm-2:00pm

Sit, relax and enjoy live classical music at Library Lane, Mona Vale

Summer Sessions: 15th Jan 2016 5:30pm-7:30pm

Sit, relax and enjoy live jazz music at Dunbar Park, Avalon

Church Point Ferry Service Christmas Day Services 

On behalf of everyone at the Church Point Ferry Service, we would like to thank all of our customers for their support during the year. We also wish you all a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year. On Christmas Day we will be operating the following services only. Be safe this Christmas. Think of the ferry driver as your designated driver! 8.20 am Depart Bells Wharf 

8.30am Depart Church Point 

9.30am Depart Church Point 

10.30am Depart Church Point 

4.30pm Depart Church Point 

5.30pm Depart Church Point 

For the rest of the Festive Season we will be operating our normal timetable, for Public Holidays use the weekend timetable.

 New Property Manager for Metro Mirage Hotel Newport‏

December 9, 2015

Metro Hospitality Group has appointed Sam Kangais to the position of Property Manager of Metro Mirage Hotel Newport, a hotel and event centre overlooking Pittwater on Sydney’s Northern Beaches.

In his new role, Sam is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day management of the property, as well as identifying and capitalising on opportunities to grow the hotel’s leisure, corporate and wedding business. 

Sam brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the position, gained over 25 years in the hospitality industry.

Metro Hospitality Group’s Managing Director, Peter Frawley, today welcomed Sam Kangais’ appointment.

“Sam is a highly experienced and passionate hotelier, who has managed a diverse range of properties from boutique hotels to a full-service resort,” Mr Frawley said.

 “We see his strong management skills, together with his track record in yield management, and in increasing business growth and profitability, as instrumental in helping to grow this property’s corporate, wedding and leisure business.”

Prior to taking up this position, Mr Kangais was General Manager of Aqualuna Beach Resort in Coffs Harbour. His extensive hospitality experience includes management of Pacific International Suites in Sydney and Pentura Hotel Sydney.

For more information or to book accommodation, visit www.metrohotels.com.au

Metro Hotels is the public face of Transmetro Corporation, an Australian owned public company listed on the Australian Stock Exchange. The group offers a national accommodation network of properties in key locations and major cities across Australia including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gladstone, Perth and Groote Eylandt in the Northern Territory.

Pittwater Ocean Swim Series 2015 -2016

The Bilgola ocean swim on Sydney's Northern Beaches will kick off the Pittwater Ocean Swim Series with a 1.5km swim at the picturesque location on Sunday 13 December.

According to Rob Berry, one of the Pittwater Series organisers, there will be ocean swims at Bilgola 13 December, Newport 3 January, Avalon 17 January, Mona Vale 24 January and the Big Swim (Palm Beach to Whale Beach) on 31 January.

"Not only will competitors in the Pittwater Ocean Series be competing in one of the most scenic beach areas you will find anywhere, they will go in the draw for a fabulous prize if they complete three of the five swims in the series.

"It doesn't matter what time you record you will still go in the draw for the prize. So, anyone who does the required number of swims can win," he added.

The major prize offered for the Pittwater Ocean Swim Series includes a trip for two to Byron Bay to compete in the Byron Bay Ocean Swim Classic, staying at the BayRoyal Luxury Apartments for three nights. Return air fares are included sponsored by Travel View Avalon.

Pittwater Series swims:
o Dec 13 - Bilgola
o Jan 3 - Newport
o Jan 17 - Avalon
o Jan 24 - Mona Vale
o Jan 31 - Palm-Whale Beach
Online entries at:  www.oceanswims.com.au

 $10.4M INVESTED IN AUSTRALIAN ARTS

10 December 2015

The Australia Council for the Arts has today announced $10.4 million of investment in Australian arts through its September grants round.

Australia Council Chief Executive Officer Tony Grybowski said this grant round had received a strong response with almost 1,700 applications.

“The 290 projects funded across all areas of practice will support an impressive and diverse range of work by individual artists, groups and small to medium arts organisations from across the country,” Mr Grybowski said.

“The projects include innovative collaborations, ground breaking ideas, incorporation of science and technology, and capacity building for emerging artists.

“Australia’s international profile and artists and audiences in regional Australia will particularly benefit from this investment.

“Almost half the projects we have supported have an international component, developing valuable relationships, markets and audiences for Australian artists in 46 countries. In the last three years we have tracked an increase in artists applying to work on projects in Asia. This is reflected in this funding round, with activity in 19 countries in the Asia Pacific region.

“Nearly a quarter of the successful applicants are based in regional or remote areas, and almost a third of all projects have a regional component. This is important in ensuring that regional audiences benefit from stories told by their own communities, as well as increasing access to work toured between metropolitan and regional areas.

“Our new grants model allows deeper analysis of the impact of our investment. We are encouraged to note that in this round each project funded involves, on average, an additional five artists.

“The flexible and responsive nature of our new grants program continues to increase access to new artists, groups and organisations, with 13 per cent of successful applicants in this round having never applied to the Australia Council before. This builds on the 20 per cent of first time applicants in the first round of the new program in March.”

The Australia Council’s peer assessment process ensures that grants are assessed by experts in the relevant areas of practice.  The 115 peers involved in this funding round represented all states and territories and all arts practices. The Council’s enhanced peer assessment process draws from a much larger and more diverse pool of experts. In this round 25 per cent of peers were from regional or remote areas, 16 per cent identified as being Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people, and 19 per cent from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

The $10.4 million investment includes $3.7 million to 166 projects by individual artists, $1 million to 39 group projects, and $5.7 million to support 85 projects by small to medium arts organisations.

Prior to the partial return of funding last month, $6 million was available for this grant round. The Council is now able to invest $19 million across the two core grant rounds during 2015-16.

Key Facts

• Grants offered in the September round: Development grants for individuals and groups valued at between $5,000 and $25,000; Arts project grants for individuals and groups valued at between $10,000 and $50,000; Arts project grants for organisations valued at between $10,000 and $150,000. (Note: the Council has had to change some of the criteria for future rounds. Project grants for organisations will now be capped at $100,000 not $150,000. Applicants who are successful in any of the three core grant categories in the September round will not be eligible to apply to those grant categories in the February round. They can apply again in the June round.)

• Peers assessed grants for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Arts; Community Arts and Cultural Development; Dance; Emerging and Experimental Arts; Literature; Multi-art form; Music; Theatre; and Visual Arts.

• Almost 1,700 applications were received and 290 projects have been supported, including 166 by individual artists, 85 by organisations and 39 by groups of artists.

• The $10.4 million granted in this round includes $5.7 million to arts organisations, $3.7 million to individual artists and $1 million to groups.

• Applications were received from across the country with 22 per cent of successful applicants based in regional or remote areas and 30 per cent of projects having a regional component.

• 46 per cent of projects supported have an international component.

• Each project funded involves, on average, an additional five artists.

• 31% of projects chose access and participation or audience engagement as their main focus.

• 115 peers involved in this round represented all states and territories and all art forms.  25 per cent were from regional or remote areas, 19 per cent from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and 16 per cent identify as being Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.

• 13 per cent of successful applicants in this round had never applied to the Australia Council before, building on the 20 per cent of first time applicants in the March grants round. 

• Applicants could select which arts practice panel assessed their application.

To see the September grant results, go to:online.australiacouncil.gov.au/ords/GrantsList

Applications are now open for the next grants round, which closes on 2 February 2016.

For more information go to: www.australiacouncil.gov.au

Mackellar and Warringah Grant Recipents 2015

Sharing Stories Foundation - Community Arts and Cultural Development Arts Projects Organisations 2015 $150,000.00 24-NOV-2015 MACKELLAR

Derz, Shoufay - Visual Arts Arts Projects For Individuals and Groups 2015 $20,001.00 28-MAY-2015  MACKELLAR

Trophy Eyes Music Section - International Pathways $14,166.00 04-FEB-2015 MACKELLAR

Handa, Raghav - Dance Arts Projects For Individuals and Groups 2015 $50,000.00 24-NOV-2015 WARRINGAH

Vescio, Luigi Dance Development Grants Individuals and Groups 2015 $8,000.00 24-NOV-2015 WARRINGAH

Frequency Oz Music Arts Projects For Individuals and Groups 2015 $19,295.00 24-NOV-2015 WARRINGAH

Ken and Julia Yonetani Visual Arts Arts Projects For Individuals and Groups 2015 $50,000.00 24-NOV-2015 WARRINGAH

Arnot, Tully Visual Arts Arts Projects For Individuals and Groups 2015 $19,550.00 28-MAY-2015 WARRINGAH

Fukazawa, Ion - Multi-Artform ArtStart 2015 $10,000.00 11-MAY-2015 WARRINGAH

Small, Joel Multi-Artform ArtStart 2015 $10,000.00 11-MAY-2015 WARRINGAH

Bruniges, Tim Music Section New Work (Writing and Recording) $6,378.00 20-FEB-2015 WARRINGAH

 Little Penguins wardens thanked for six month vigil

Media release: 10 December 2015

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) will be joined today by Ian Kiernan AO to thank the Manly Little Penguin wardens today for their incredible dedication to protecting the Little Penguin colony at North Head through a tough breeding season.

Acting Head of NPWS, Tom Bagnat said despite the losses by fox attack early in the season, NPWS and the community successfully kept the remaining colony of Little Penguins safe for the rest of the breeding season.

“The community has been invaluable in helping parks’ staff to protect the Little Penguin colony over the past six months including assisting in the nightly vigil to keep the breeding birds safe from fox predation at their most vulnerable times,” Mr Bagnat said.

“Today is about acknowledging their contribution and saying a heartfelt thank you to these dedicated individuals.

“Some Little Penguins are now sitting on second clutches after successfully fledging chicks while others have chicks almost ready to leave home.

“When you see a Little Penguin chick it really highlights why the NPWS and the local community work so hard to protect what is the State’s last remaining mainland colony into the future.”

“Volunteers worked side-by-side with NPWS staff and were a key part of the season campaign’s success, especially in our daily evening and dawn presence at four key beaches where the Little Penguins breed.”

Mr Ian Kiernan said community involvement was the key to successful conservation programs, as demonstrated by the highly successful Clean Up Australia campaigns, which include the removal of rubbish from marine environments that can impact wildlife such as Little Penguins.

“I have experienced first-hand how communities working together can achieve very big things for the environment and the commitment of the Little Penguin wardens and the broader Manly community to protect this colony has been outstanding,’ Mr Kiernan said.

“It is testimony to the NPWS and the local community’s passion for this little Aussie bird that the last remaining mainland colony of Little Penguins in NSW has survived here in the middle of one of the world’s biggest cities.”

 While the immediate threat was removed, NPWS and the community wardens are acutely aware that foxes move freely in urban environments and the colony will always be exposed.

 “Five foxes were removed from the North Head region over the breeding season which demonstrates the vulnerability of this isolated colony in an urban environment,” Mr Bagnat said.

 “The positive is that the breeding season operation brought together some of the best minds in the business to protect the Little Penguins which resulted in some very innovative thinking around optimum protection methods.

 “NPWS is now trialing other methods of discouragement including innovative strategies developed during the campaign, such as human scent, transistor radios and deterrent lighting.”

However, the work of the Little Penguin warden is never done with a batch of new recruits having just been enlisted from the community ready to start work next season.

 Ian Kiernan also launched a summer education campaign to raise community awareness of the plight of the Little Penguin colony at North Head.  Wardens working at Manly Wharf will now be handing out a Little Penguin Postcard to the community highlighting the ways they can help to protect the colony.

Until every chick has fledged, the Little Penguin wardens and NPWS will remain on guard over what have to be some of the most gorgeous babies in the animal kingdom

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 13/12/2015 

click on Logo: 

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

 NBI Respite, Recreation, Support Host Program 2016

Volunteer in 2016!: Is one of your New Years Resolutions to give back to your community in 2016?

Our Host program links children with a disability with a volunteer ‘host’ family for fun and friendship. Host volunteers come from all walks of life and can be singles, couples or families.

As a host volunteer you will have the opportunity to care for a child with a mild disability on a regular basis, usually 1-2 days per month. This can happen in your own home or on an activity in the community.

The host program gives the host child a fun and interactive social experience with another family and also provides their family with a break from their caring responsibilities and the rewards can be amazing!

As a host you will be required to set aside at least one day per month to care for your host child. Prior to matching volunteers with a host child NBI will provide training and will conduct the necessary checks to ensure the safety of the host child.

NBI are looking for more Host families in 2016 and would like to hear from local families who can offer a fun and safe environment.

For more information please contact Louise at NBI on 02 9970 0500 or email louise@nbi.org.au

 A new strategy to protect and manage Australia's national and world heritage

Media release - 9 December 2015: The Hon. Greg Hunt MP, Minister for the Environment

The potential for a UK-style national lottery to benefit Australia's magnificent heritage is among a range of new opportunities outlined in the Australian Heritage Strategy, released today.

The strategy sets out the Australian Government's priorities over the next decade and the actions it will take to support and promote our remarkable natural, historic and Indigenous heritage.

I am proud to release the Strategy today at the iconic Sydney Opera House.

Commitments in the Strategy include a more creative online presence for national heritage listed sites to raise awareness of the fascinating stories connected with our heritage places.

There will also be renewed focus on encouraging partnerships to boost tourism opportunities in the heritage sector and on fostering heritage skills and training to address the shortage of skilled workers.

A range of innovative new funding sources will also be explored, including the feasibility of adapting the United Kingdom's national lottery model, which this year alone generated a staggering $780 million (375 million pounds) for heritage projects across the UK.

Protection of Australia's national and world heritage is a fundamental pillar of the Government's environment policy and support for the development of an Australian Heritage Strategy was announced in November 2013, just two months after the Coalition took office.

Our natural, Indigenous and historic heritage enhances our sense of place and national identity and makes a positive contribution to the nation's wellbeing.

Australia's world and national heritage places also create strong economic returns for their owners and managers, as well as surrounding communities.

A study of 15 World Heritage sites in Australia found that the economic benefit of these sites amounted to $15.4 billion in annual turnover and over 79,000 direct and indirect jobs.

This strategy highlights the need for heritage management to be a shared responsibility between national, state and local governments, private owners, businesses and the local community.

The Australian Heritage Strategy reflects the time, ideas and passion of the many people who contributed to its development and I thank them for their considered contributions.

The 103 places on our National Heritage List reflect our journey as a nation. It contains places that capture the diversity of stories that have helped shape our nation and inform our sense of self.

I am pleased to announce that nominations for new places to be included on the National Heritage List are now open.

I encourage communities to look at their most significant heritage places and consider if they would like to make a nomination. Nominations close on 18 February 2016.

For a copy of the strategy go to www.environment.gov.au/heritage-strategy

For information on the National Heritage List nominations process go to www.environment.gov.au/heritage/places/national-heritage-list

DoggieRescue.com

Pet of the Week

Draco
AGE/SEX: 2 years / M
BREED: Wiry Terrier x
Draco is an energetic boy who has already had some training. He is social with other dogs and affectionate with people. He walks well on lead and would also like to run. He does not react to passing dogs or cars and is generally well mannered. He is that in between size at 9.8kg and has a scruffy coat. He comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. His adoption cost is $350.

For further details or to meet all dogs at call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email monika@DoggieRescue.com. Visit www.DoggieRescue.com to see all our dogs. www.facebook.com/doggierescue 

 

Festive fun at Mona Vale Library

Mona Vale Library will hold a free screening of Elf (G certified) on Thursday 17 December from 6.15pm.

Elf, tells a comical story about Buddy (Will Ferrell) who was accidentally transported to the North Pole as a toddler and raised to adulthood among Santa's elves. Unable to shake the feeling that he doesn't fit in, the adult Buddy travels to New York, in full elf uniform, in search of his real father.

Festive refreshments will be available and Christmas themed dress-ups are encouraged!

Bookings are essential for both events; the cost for the Pantomime, being held at Mona Vale Memorial Hall, on Saturday 12 December from 3.15pm is $5. 

The screening of ‘Elf’, at Mona Vale Library is on Thursday 17 December from 6.15pm is free, however bookings are essential and can be made by calling: 9970 1600

Full details on these events and more are available on the Mona Vale Library website. 

 Help to Build Barrenjoey High School's Future

BHS are now in full swing with their latest fundraising project which is the building of The Barrenjoey Community Performance Space! 

Designed by renowned local architect Richard Cole - this acoustically designed purpose built space will seat an audience of 200, and will play host to many Community and School performing arts programs such as dance, drama, musical concerts, film nights, lectures and so much more! 

BHS need your support Community! 

If you think you can help, please call Barrenjoey High School 02 99188811 or visit their website www.barrenjoeyhighschool.com.au 

Or leave a message here and we'll get in touch!

More information to follow. This is what we've all been waiting for!

Top; external front of the Barrenjoey Community Performance Space - end of phase 3 – completion

 Children's Books For Bear Cottage

A local Manly writer, Terri Cracknell, has written and Illustrated four fabulous children's books that would make great gifts for Christmas!

Books retail for $12 and all profits from sales of the books go to Bear Cottage!

The books can be bought directly by emailingterrazzo@iprimus.com.au and are also available from bookshops and the Manly Art Gallery & Museum.

 2015 to 2016 double demerit periods

The double demerit points period applies from midnight of the start date to midnight on the finish date.

Midnight Wednesday 23 December to midnight Sunday 3 January (or 24 December 2015 to 3 January 2016 inclusive)

 Creative Creatures Film Festival 2016

Theme 2016

New image or reference to be included in your 3 minute edit is to relate to: “recycling” (plus one only of the previous year items of rabbit, wave or apple)

NOTE: All films must be created specifically for this festival rather than appropriating existing material 

Click here to Register online 

To enter please fill in the registration form and pay the registration fee of $30.00

Your registration code will be sent to you on receipt of payment.

Your entry must be delivered to the Avalon Beach Bowling Club on or by January 23, 2016. (look for the recycling bin!) 

The final will be held Sunday February 21 at Avalon Beach Bowling Club. There will be a massive even bigger tent if rain is heaven sent and films are shown on a 20 metre square LED screen in rain, hale or shine! 

Gates open 1pm - Films start 5pm “Willbe” trophy Presentation 7pm

Submit your entry as a .Mov file on usb or cd and deliver to:

Katy Young c/o Avalon Beach Bowling Club by January 23 2016

What you could win!

Entrants 16+ Years

First prize – $1,000.00, Second prize – $750.00, Third prize – $500.00

Entrants 5 – 15 Years

First prize – $500.00, Second prize – $350.00, Third prize – $250.00

Once again our celebrity judges will be stellar and like the first year, of the highest calibre.

More information at: www.creativecreaturesfilmfestival.2016

Tax Deductible Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade Building Fund

By Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade

Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade is an entirely volunteer NSW Rural Fire Service station located on Sydney's northern beaches.
We are responsible for protecting people and property from bushfire in the Davidson, French Forest, Forestville and Killarney Heights area, which includes over 10,000 homes. We also assist in search and rescues, storm damage and other incidents whenever called upon.

Our Brigade has more than 100 volunteers who commit thousands of hours every year to the service of our community. Our volunteers are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Last year the Brigade contributed over 9,500 hours in service of the community.

Why We Need Your Help
In recent years, the Brigade has outgrown the current station, which is unable to adequately accommodate our volunteers, vehicles and equipment. As such, we are embarking on a building project, which will:
• Add two additional fire truck garages (doubling our firefighting capacity),
• Provide a dedicated education room for the public and a training facility to ensure our volunteers receive the best training to help better serve the community.

How you can help
We need your help to raise a further $150,000. The State government has committed substantial funding to the building project. However, there is a shortfall of $150,000 we need to raise to ensure our project is undertaken and ready for Fire Season 2016/17.

We hold deductible gift recipient status. Any donation you make to us is tax deductible and we will issue you a receipt which indicates this. You can give a tax deductible donation:

1. Online through Chuffed: www.chuffed.org/project/buyabrick 
2. By EFT by direct deposit to: Account Name - Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade Gift Fund Account, BSB: 032-299 Account number: 111245,
3. By Cheque made payable to the Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade, orCash, posted to PO Box 128, Belrose West NSW 2085.

Your help in raising $150,000 is greatly appreciated and will help us better serve and protect.

Thank you!
Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade.

 BUY A 2016 DOGGIE RESCUE CALENDAR AND SAVE A FURRY LIFE

The much loved Doggie Rescue calendar is back, and this year features the adorable Maeko as the cover star. Maeko is one of 11,466 dogs that have been saved from death row through the tireless hard work and dedication of Sydney’s largest private NO KILL animal welfare organisation. These 2016 calendars represent so much more than dates on page, each and every one contributes directly to saving the lives of our best friends.

Maeko was rescued from one of the many pounds around NSW and he represents what happens when abandoned and unloved pets are given a second chance at life thanks to founder and CEO Monika Biernacki; 

“The number of dogs facing death row every day in Australia is truly shocking. These beautiful animals all deserve the opportunity to find their forever home and I am so proud that over 11,000 of them are now happily part of their new families”.

The Doggie Rescue calendar forms the main fundraiser for this well respected charity, and with all proceeds going straight back to the organisation, it means that many, many more lives will be saved. If all the calendars find their way into homes around Australia, that represents more than 1200 dogs provided with food, shelter and basic veterinary costs.

There are literally thousands of heartbreaking stories behind these animals, but it is the heartwarming result of every new adoption that provides the drive that keeps Monika and her dedicated volunteers going;

“Doggie Rescue was created to provide a viable NO KILL alternative in Sydney and to educate the public on their lifelong responsibilities when owning a dog. Dogs are not an impulse purchase and people need to become educated about where their new addition has come from. Rescue dogs are very special, most adoptees tell us that in actual fact, the rescue dog has saved them! There is nothing like the love and dedication of a rescued animal. ”

The 2016 DoggieRescue calendar costs just $15 and makes the perfect Christmas gift for friends and family. It is available online at www.DoggieRescue.com.au or can be purchased by calling 9486 3133 or by visiting the shelter at Ingleside.

www.doggierescue.com/2016calendar.htm

 

 LEGO AT THE LIBRARY

Local children will have the chance to join a club specialising in one of the most enduring playthings of childhood. Mona Vale Library has started a Lego club on the first Sunday of each month from 2pm to 4pm. Next is January 3rd, 2016. The club is open to children aged between seven and twelve years of age, with younger children welcome with parental supervision. If you are interested in attending a Lego at the Library session contact the library on 9970 1622 or book in person at the library, 1 Park Street, Mona Vale.

 

Click on logo above to visit their website.

New Season for Sailability Pittwater 

Sailability Pittwater is a volunteer organisation which provides sailing for people with a disability. Our main recreational sailing activities are at Rowland Reserve, Bayview, and we run competitive sailing for people with a disability out of RPAYC Newport.

We are currently looking for new volunteers for our Saturday morning program at Rowland Reserve and Tuesdays at RPA. Visit our website for more information at  www.sailability.org/au/pittwater or call John on 9982 5656

 December 6 - 12, 2015: Issue 243

Articles This Week

Front Page Issue 243:  

Warriewood SLSC Hosts Round 3 of Surf Boat Premiership 

Jo Brigden-Jones and Naomi Flood Win K2 500 Final at Grand Prix 1 – Adelaide

Pittwater Environmental Grants Announced: Pittwater High School's Saltmarsh and Mangrove Focus, Pittwater Council's Coastal Dune Restoration and Improved Floodplain Management

Aquatics: Congratulations Jason Waterhouse and Lisa Darmanin: Selected for Rio 2016 Olympic Team

Daniel Fitzgibbon and Liesl Tesch win 2015 Para World Sailing Championships 

Pictures: 2015 In Pictures: Events – A 10 out of 10 + 20 to 100 to 149 Years of Celebrations and Commemorations

Paris Interred by Robyn McWilliam

Held Over:
Whale Beach SLSC Awarded Rescue of the Month, to Hold Bronze Training in January: an Opportunity to Begin 2016 by Joining the Biggest Team in the World

Artist of the Month: December 2015 - Michelle Ball creates and share beautiful paintings of our offshore areas that evoke the spirit of this land's innate phoenix nature

Profile: Brett Crowther is an Australian and local success story, a self effacing six and a half foot giant, he has 'can do' in spades and proves you can begin in one field and adapt brilliantly to another, where making a success of Incat-Crowther, worldwide, is merely 'doing your job' ... our first Summer Legend for 2015/16 is also the son of another local legend...

History: The Stewart Towers On Barrenjoey Headland: New research by Geoff Searl of Avalon Beach Historical Society finds real location, wonderful film by John Illingsworth shows field work and David Lyall's model of the Inner Stewart Tower presented at December 2015 ABHS General Meeting

 HeARTfelt Christmas

Pittwater Artists Trail

Sunday 6th December 2015: from 10am to 5pm both days

Here comes Summer, Christmas and the Pittwater Artists Trail’s last open studios event of the year - and a perfect opportunity to find a unique gift for someone special while having an inspiring day exploring our beautiful coastal environment and viewing amazing art.

This season’s much anticipated Artists Trail will be on Saturday December 5th and Sunday the 6th from 10am to 5pm.

An exciting new development on this Trail is the ARTBUS, a dedicated free bus service for the Trail - two buses departing from Avalon Surf Club and the Palm Beach Ferry Terminal in half hour alternating circuits will visit selected studios dropping off and picking up visitors from 10.30 until after 4pm. No driving or finding a park, just hop on and off at the studios you choose on the circuit. The buses are a much welcomed trial incentive from the Enliven team at Pittwater Council.

The Pittwater Artists Trail this December will be full of arty inspirations and chances to meet and engage with the makers of beautiful art.

The Trail invites you to consider giving a gift that is not mass produced in a factory but something that is an expression of an idea or feeling and made by the hands of an artist.

Handmade, designed by artists and makers - that’s a real gift.

See you on the Trail.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Vale – Harvey Rose

The funeral service for Harvey Rose will be held at the Maria Regina Catholic Church,  7 Central Road Avalon, at 11.30 am on Wednesday 9th December with a wake in the Avalon Beach RSL auditorium from 1.00 pm.

Vale - Harvey Rose

November 30, 2015

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes today paid tribute to former Pittwater Mayor Harvey Rose who passed away over the weekend.

Mr Rose will be remembered as a fierce advocate for the Pittwater community, a popular Mayor, tireless campaigner and dedicated supporter of local community groups and sporting clubs.

“Harvey lived and breathed Pittwater and never shied away from a challenge,” Rob Stokes said.

“Very few people in our community shared Harvey’s passion, enthusiasm and perseverance.

“Harvey was always among the first to put up his hand to assist with a local campaign and first in line to help support a local cause.

“There are countless local projects and initiatives that have benefited from Harvey’s involvement over so many years - from Currawong State Park to the ongoing modernisation of Mona Vale Hospital.

“I will never forget Harvey’s passion for our local health services and his absolute love of the Manly Sea Eagles.

“Harvey will forever be remembered by our community and I offer my condolences to his family, friends and loved ones.” 

Hon. Robert Stokes.

_______________

Pittwater Farewells one of its own

Pittwater Council is mourning the loss of former Mayor Harvey Rose who passed away on Friday 27 November 2015.

A passionate Avalon resident since 1971, Cr Harvey Rose was elected as Mayor of Pittwater in 2009 a position which he held until 2012.

It was during his leadership as Mayor, Currawong was secured into public hands forever and the Currawong State Park Advisory Committee established.

Harvey was an advocate for the ‘Friends of Currawong’ and the Chair of both the ‘Pittwater Residents Against Inappropriate Development’ and ‘Save Mona Vale Hospital’ committees.

Pittwater Mayor Jacqui Townsend said Currawong was particularly close to Harvey’s heart.

“Harvey said that  ‘to think that Currawong, a place where all the people, no matter how well off or not well off could go and have a good holiday with the family, would be taken away and turned into an exclusive sub-division for the mega rich, I found that abhorrent’.

Harvey is fondly remembered for his love of prose, so it seems only fitting to recall a piece from his Mayoral Column from 26 March 2011."

“Currawong has been saved. Pittwater Park has emerged – through long, hard, persistent effort based for so many involved, in the belief that such a significant site should be in public ownership forever. I am sure many involved would recognise the somewhat idealistic spirit in that little poem by William Wordsworth:

    “My heart leaps up when I behold,

    A rainbow in the sky,

    So was it when my life began,

    So it is now I am a man,

    So be it when I shall grow old”

    Sometimes rainbows translate into realities.

Mayor Townsend said Harvey was renowned for his passionate community advocacy, and was presented with the Pittwater Citizen of the Year award in 2005 for Outstanding Service to the local community.

Harvey will be remembered by our community and we send our thoughts and prayers to his wife Wilga, sons, daughter and adored grandchildren.

Pittwater Council

__________________

Friends,

It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the death of Harvey Rose.

Harvey was a passionate supporter of Friends of Currawong and played a vital role in its preservation.  Harvey fought tirelessly for Currawong for many years in his various roles as Pittwater Councillor and F.O.C committee member. Harvey eventually became the Chairperson of F.O.C before resigning to become Mayor of Pittwater.

As passionate about the English language as he was about the various political and community causes he fought for, Harvey was an outstanding orator and was never more at home than when he was’ megaphone in hand’ leading the charge at a rally. Harvey Rose was one of a kind and was an inspiration to all who knew him.

Shane Withington

President Friends of Currawong

_________________

The above Tributes were originally published by this News Service on Monday December 30th through associated platforms, were viewed by thousands who added their own messages of condolences and praise.

Pittwater Council has placed  a condolence book at Mona Vale Library - which will be given to his family at the funeral.

NOTICE

Dear Readers and Contributors

Please be advised that the Final Issue of Pittwater Online News for 2015 will be published on the 20th of December, 2015 – No 245.

The First Issue for 2016 will be published on the 10th of January, 2016 – No 246.

Contributors who wish to list News or New Year Events that falls within those dates are asked to have these in, ready to Publish, by the 18th of December.

We shall not be back in the Office prior to January the 5th 2015 for Contributors wishing to add Items to the January 10th, 2016 Issue. These may still be sent and will be attended to promptly on our return.

Pittwater Online News.

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary 2015

December
December 12 Sausage sizzle,Bunnings, Narrabeen 8am to 4pm     
Mona Vale Hospital foyer stall, Friday, 11th December, 9am to 3pm, baking, craft, knitwear, cds and books.
Pittwater Place, Mona Vale, 21, 22, 23rd December, 9am to 3pm,Christmas stall, Christmas items, craft and knitwear.

 Pittwater High School Scores Environmental Grant

3 December 2015

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes today announced Pittwater High School has been successful in securing a NSW Government grant to help improve its surrounding coastal ecosystem.

The $3,500 Eco-Schools Grant will support the school’s recently launched initiative to help prevent litter entering the Pittwater and restore and protect the coastal saltmarsh and mangroves surrounding the school.

“This is a great initiative which helps protect the school’s natural surrounds and promotes environmental awareness among students,” Rob Stokes said today.

“Pittwater High School is situated in a unique location and is ideally positioned to expand its focus on coastal and marine sciences.

“It’s fantastic to see students driving this initiative and recognising the importance of the school’s surrounding coastal environment

“Hands-on experience in coastal management is invaluable and Pittwater High School is exceptionally fortunate to have one of the world’s greatest waterways literally on its doorstep.

“This grant will support the school’s objectives and help deliver wider benefits to our whole community. 

“Congratulations to everyone involved in this exciting project,” Rob Stokes said.

 78 Schools Awarded Environmental Education Grants 

Friday, 27 November 2015

Seventy-eight primary and secondary schools have shared in over $270,000 in Eco Schools Grants for environmental education initiatives. Environment Minister Mark Speakman said the NSW Environmental Trust grants aimed to instil environmental awareness and appreciation in children. 

“These grants support environmental understanding and compassion in our students. They help educate students on the importance of protecting the environment for future generations,” Mr Speakman said. 

Schools will use the money for projects that help young people to learn and value the natural environment, such as rehabilitating marshland vegetation and building community gardens that supply vegetables to the school canteen. A northern NSW school plans to use the grant to install a stingless native beehive and bee attracting flora next to the school vegetable garden to encourage Australian native bees to settle in the school and pollinate its vegetable patch.

 “All of the primary and secondary school children participating in these innovative environmental projects will transfer their learning to peers, family and communities, which will generate an environmental legacy,” Mr Speakman said. “I encourage educators and members of school communities to consider implementing environmental programs, and to apply for future rounds of Environmental Trust Eco Schools grants.” 

To see the full list of recipients and project descriptions, visit: www.environment.nsw.gov.au/grants/2015-eco-schools.htm 

Northern Beaches Secondary College *: Sustainability - Reduce, Reuse and Recycle

Pittwater High School

Pittwater High School marshland management: riparian restoration, litter and flood prevention

Pittwater High school is surrounded by a mangrove ecosystem and at high tide, part of the school floods with salt water.  Student representatives have volunteered as part of an environmental awareness campaign called Project Green Sea Turtle. These students have done litter surveys of the surrounding area and have identified four areas of the school that are large point sources for litter pollution entering our local waterways. The project has three goals:

1. to mitigate and prevent flooding of grass areas during king tides;

2. to restore marshland and provide habitat in the water course using the reestablishment of riparian vegetation, saltmarsh and mangrove plants; and

3. to prevent litter from escaping the school grounds, entering the adjacent mangroves and flowing out into the ocean on the outgoing tide.

There is a great need to prevent flooding of the school grounds where saltwater kills playing fields and to reduce litter from entering the surrounding waterways of Broken Bay. Students from the schools Marine and Aquaculture Technology program will conduct regular tide and litter surveys to measure the success of the program.

 

CCNB Annual Report 2015

The 2015 Annual Report for Community Care (Northern Beaches) has now been published.  

We’ve had a busy and productive year, with much of our work focused on preparing and responding to the significant changes underway across our three primary service areas – aged care, disability and mental health.

Part of our success and impact over the past 12 months is attributed to our extensive network of relationships across the sector, and with people who share our commitment to maximising life opportunities for all people within our community.

Thank you for your interest in, and ongoing support of, our work.

 Thanks to Johnson Brothers Hardware

December 2, 2015: Avalon Boomerang Bags

A HUGE thank you to James and Angela from Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 in Avalon for giving us a discounted rate on the marine ply needed to make our boxes. Totally appreciate the support for the community.

Boomerang Bags is a bag-share initiative involving the installation of a number of ‘Boomerang Bag’ boxes throughout any given business district, shopping centre, street or market. Each box is stocked with re-useable bags for customers to borrow if they have forgotten to bring their own.

Unlike the traditional purchase-and-keep approach, Boomerang Bags are free, and local community members are responsible for returning the bags once they’re no longer required. The availability of free re-useable bags reduces the reliance of local businesses to supply bags to all customers, and encourages a mentality of re-use among local communities, thereby reducing the amount of plastic bag material entering our landfills and waterways.

Avalon Boomerang Bags

We need all sorts of volunteers with all sorts of skills. Are you a knife sharpener, carpenter, sewer, event co-ordinator, machine repairer, designer? We need all sorts of people to make this project a success. Let us know what your talents are and we will find out a way to put them to good use for a great local cause. 

We need your bags! and sheets, fabric, cotton and time smile emoticon If you have any re-useable bags that we can re-purpose we would gladly take them. We have a box located at the Avalon Recreation Centre so drop them down anytime the centre is open. Thank you in advance.

Find out more, and get involved, at Avalon Boomerang BagsFacebook page

 Barrenjoey Peninsula Week of Golf 2016

Held: 8th Feb 2016: 8am - 5pm

Join over 600 women on the Northern Beaches to participate in an outstanding Golf tournament.

For a small entry fee, golfers have the opportunity to enjoy 7 beautiful Northern Beaches Golf Courses – Bayview, Cromer, Long Reef, Manly, Mona Vale, Monash and Wakehurst.

Enter online now: www.barrenjoeyweekofgolf.com

  

ROCK PLATFORM TOUR

North Narrabeen Aquatic Reserve

Saturday 12 December, 2:30 - 4:30pm

Come and join us on a low tide rock platform tour. Once the ocean retreats an amazing world becomes uncovered for us to enjoy. Investigate the amazing diversity of life that lives between the land and the sea and how creatures survive in such a unique and challenging environment. Sea stars, sea hares, limpets and crabs are some of the amazing creatures that call these rock platforms home.

The tour is a great opportunity to learn about the amazingly abundant life that exists in these special places. Guided by local experts it’s a great way to learn more about a world that is rarely seen. An amazing adventure for all the family!

When: Saturday 12 December, 2:30 - 4:30pm

Where: Meet point provided on booking.

What to bring: Sturdy covered shoes that can get wet, hat, sunscreen, water, camera (optional).

Bookings Essential! Online - In person: Coastal Environment Centre, Lake Park Road, North Narrabeen Phone: 1300 000 232

New Years Eve Fireworks - midnight

New Years Eve Fireworks for 2015! Two sessions 9.00pm and 12.00pm at Rowland Reserve Bayview

31st Dec 2015: 11:59pm - 12:10am

Celebrate New Years Eve with family, friends and picnics at this year's Fireworks Spectacular at Rowland Reserve, Bayview.

There are two times scheduled for the fireworks, which include a family friendly session at 9.00pm, followed by the 12.00pm session to bring in 2016.

Pittwater Council requests that members of the public comply with the Fireworks Exclusion Zone at Rowland Reserve.

Rowland Reserve has been declared by Pittwater Council as an Alcohol Prohibited Zone on New Year’s Eve, which will come into effect from 6.00am 31 December 2014 until 6.00am 1 January 2015.

 Northern Beaches Concert Band Appointment of New Band Director 

Northern Beaches Concert Band is delighted to welcome its new band director, Ms Sarah Shaw.  Sarah has been appointed, following the resignation of Matthew Browne, due to illness.  

Matthew led Monatones, now the Northern Beaches Concert Band (NBCB) for almost 20 years and his dedication, sense of humour and commitment will be sorely missed.

Sarah is an experienced popular local band director who is brimming with ideas for the band.  “Playing in a band is a wonderful, rewarding way to improve your skills in a fun and supportive environment.  I am very excited about working with such an inclusive and motivated group of musicians”, said Sarah.  

Over the past four weeks under Sarah’s direction, the band has been preparing for the Narrabeen Christmas Markets on Saturday 28th November at 11.00am.  Numbers to be played included A Merry Mozart Christmas, Georgia on my Mind, Man from Snowy River, Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah, along with several other pieces.  

An added pleasure for band members at this particular gig is that a few of the band members’ children have asked if they could play with the “oldies”, much to the “oldies” surprise!  As band member, clarinettist Ian Blume said, he was really chuffed that his daughter, who plays in her local school and regional band, was keen to play alto sax with her “daggy dad”!

Northern Beaches Concert Band will kick off 2016 with a new repertoire on Wednesday 3rd February 2016 at 7.30pm at the Pittwater High School Music Room, Mona Street, Mona Vale.NBCB encourages all those adult players out there to dust off their instruments and come and try the band out.  The band is always looking for more flutes, clarinets, saxophones, French horns, euphoniums, tubas, trombones, etc.  There are easy parts, more difficult parts – something for everybody!  

Enquiries: 0414 560 263 (Denise Morgan)

 

Please note Council office hours over the holiday period:

• Thursday 17 December - Closed (from 12pm to 2.30pm)

• Thursday 24 December - Closed

• Friday 25 December - Closed

• Monday 28 December - Closed

• Tuesday 29 December - Open

• Wednesday 30 December - Open

• Thursday 31 December - Open

• Friday 1 January 2016 - New Years' Day

Outside our opening hours you can contact Council on the out-of-hours service by calling 9970 1111 or by visitingwww.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/contact_council

Library opening hours

Mona Vale Library will be closed 24 December and will re-open on Tuesday 29 December. The library will also close at 2pm on 31 December and re-open Saturday 2 January 2016.

Avalon Library will be closed on Friday 25 December and will re-open on Tuesday 29 December. The library will also close Friday 1 January 2016.

Council meetings

Council’s last meeting of the year will be held on Monday 21 December, with meetings resuming on Monday 1 February 2016. The Development Unit will begin meetings at the end of January 2016.

Enliven Pittwater - Summer sessions

Pack a picnic and enjoy the sounds of summer with our series of FREE open-air pop-up music performances. Mona Vale, Newport and Avalon will come alive with relaxing bluegrass, jazz and classical music. Sponsored by Enliven Pittwater, these events feature the Green Mohair Suits, The Bluejays, Pittwater String Trio, The Distant Sons, and Ahava Ensemble. Concerts will run over six sessions from 3 December 2015 until 15 January 2016. Download the Enliven App for the full program.

Summer Sessions: 

Newport Village Xmas Party: 10th Dec 2015 5:00pm-9:00pm

Bring the family to Robertson Road Newport

Summer Sessions: 11th Dec 2015 12:00pm-2:00pm

Sit, relax and enjoy live classical music in Library Lane, Mona Vale

Summer Sessions: 17th Dec 2015 5:30pm-7:30pm

Sit, relax and enjoy live bluegrass music at Bert Payne Reserve, Newport Beach

Summer Sessions: 15th Jan 2016 12:00pm-2:00pm

Sit, relax and enjoy live classical music at Library Lane, Mona Vale

Summer Sessions: 15th Jan 2016 5:30pm-7:30pm

Sit, relax and enjoy live jazz music at Dunbar Park, Avalon

Pittwater Ocean Swim Series 2015 -2016

The Bilgola ocean swim on Sydney's Northern Beaches will kick off the Pittwater Ocean Swim Series with a 1.5km swim at the picturesque location on Sunday 13 December.

According to Rob Berry, one of the Pittwater Series organisers, there will be ocean swims at Bilgola 13 December, Newport 3 January, Avalon 17 January, Mona Vale 24 January and the Big Swim (Palm Beach to Whale Beach) on 31 January.

"Not only will competitors in the Pittwater Ocean Series be competing in one of the most scenic beach areas you will find anywhere, they will go in the draw for a fabulous prize if they complete three of the five swims in the series.

"It doesn't matter what time you record you will still go in the draw for the prize. So, anyone who does the required number of swims can win," he added.

The major prize offered for the Pittwater Ocean Swim Series includes a trip for two to Byron Bay to compete in the Byron Bay Ocean Swim Classic, staying at the BayRoyal Luxury Apartments for three nights. Return air fares are included sponsored by Travel View Avalon.

Pittwater Series swims:
o Dec 13 - Bilgola
o Jan 3 - Newport
o Jan 17 - Avalon
o Jan 24 - Mona Vale
o Jan 31 - Palm-Whale Beach
Online entries at:  www.oceanswims.com.au

Church Point Ferry Service Christmas Day Services 

On behalf of everyone at the Church Point Ferry Service, we would like to thank all of our customers for their support during the year. We also wish you all a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year. On Christmas Day we will be operating the following services only. Be safe this Christmas. Think of the ferry driver as your designated driver! 8.20 am Depart Bells Wharf 

8.30am Depart Church Point 

9.30am Depart Church Point 

10.30am Depart Church Point 

4.30pm Depart Church Point 

5.30pm Depart Church Point 

For the rest of the Festive Season we will be operating our normal timetable, for Public Holidays use the weekend timetable.

Monster Raffle Supports Local Boardrider Clubs

In 2015/16, Surfing Australia is again running the Monster Raffle in conjunction with the Original Source Australian Boardriders Battle.

Last year, over $27,000 was raised with all proceeds benefiting more than 108 of Australia's boardriders clubs. This year, we want to go bigger so we can give back to the clubs who help make Australian surfing what it is today.

So... grab your ticket today for $5 and not only are you giving back to Australian Boardriders clubs, but you'll also be in the running to WIN a brand new Toyota RAV4 Cruiser valued at $55,000 plus thousands of dollars' worth of other cool gear from Milwaukee, Oakley, Original Source, FCS, Nikon and Boost Mobile!

Buy Tickets at: www.monsterraffle.com.au

 

Eramboo seeks Artist in Residence for 2016

Applications are open for Pittwater artists to apply for a three month residency at the Eramboo Artist Environment from April to June 2016.

The residency is being run by the Eramboo Artist Environment in collaboration with Pittwater Council’s Enliven Pittwater – a strategy designed to create more vibrancy in our town and village centres.

Pittwater Mayor Jacqui Townsend said Enliven Pittwater seeks to support artists in a variety of ways through workshops, talks, demonstrations, exhibitions and educational opportunities such as this Artist in Residence program.

Mayor Townsend said the residency program is open to artists working in all types of art forms including, but not limited to; visual, photography, film, theatre, performance, experimental, multi-media, sculpture, music and the literary arts.

“The intention is to provide local artists with the opportunity to develop their practice,” said Mayor Townsend.

Eramboo’s artistic director Susan Milne said the residency will offer the successful artist the opportunity to develop his or her art practice in the rich natural and cultural environment of Eramboo in Terrey Hills. The artist in residence will have free use of one of Eramboo’s artist studios for three months. 

The unique space and connecting with other professional artists, will enable the person to develop their artistic practice with full support from existing networks at Eramboo,” she said.

“The residency is a vehicle for creative people looking to accelerate and further develop their careers,” Ms Milne added.

The resident artist will have the opportunity to show their work in one of Pittwater’s centres. Mayor Townsend said she was ‘thrilled to again be supporting a local artist and their creativity, as well as have their completed work add to the vibrancy of our town and village centres as in previous years.’

Applications are now open and will close Friday 11 December 2015. The successful applicant will be announced in December 2015.

Artist in Residence application forms and guidelines are available from info@eramboo.com

To download the application form and guidelines please visitwww.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/artistinresidence

Mona Vale Chamber of Commerce Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Fundraising Dinner

The Mona Vale Chamber of Commerce is pleased to invite the Northern Beaches Community to enjoy a delightful dinner and fabulous guest speakers as we raise funds to support Mona Vale Hospital.  
The guest speakers are Dr Glenn Singleman and his wife Heather Swan.  Together they have some truly unbelievable feats in the world of base-jumping and wingsuit flying, but are also highly sought after motivational speakers who will inspire us to overcome whatever fears are holding us back from achieving our goals.

Date: Friday 19 February 2016
Time: 6:30pm
Venue: Mona Vale Golf Club
Tickets: $110 each or $1000 for table of 10.
All proceeds will go to the Mona Vale Hospital Auxillary to fund equipment purchases for the Mona Vale Rehabilitation Centre.
Tickets: www.monavalechamber.org/events

 Have your say on new Central Coast plan

Ministerial Media Release - The Hon. Rob Stokes MP, Minister for Planning

Planning Minister Rob Stokes and Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast Scot MacDonald today released a new draft plan for the region, aimed at growing the local economy, enhancing the community lifestyle and accelerating housing supply.

Mr Stokes said the draft Central Coast Regional Plan will now go on public exhibition for the community to have their say.

“The Central Coast is a beautiful place for people to call home, and this draft plan focuses on revitalising existing areas, providing new homes, new jobs and protecting the local environment,” Mr Stokes said. 

“I encourage the community to take part in this consultation process to help shape the future of the Central Coast.”

Mr MacDonald said the plan laid out the NSW Government’s vision for the region over the next 20 years, and he encouraged the public to get involved. 

“This plan aims to capitalise on the Central Coast’s attractive coastal lifestyle; its proximity to Sydney and the Hunter; and build an even better future for the community,” Mr MacDonald said.

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch welcomed the plan.

“The NSW Government is delivering for the people of the Central Coast with this exciting vision to make our wonderful community and lifestyle even better,” Mr Crouch said. 

The release of the draft plan follows extensive consultation with the community, local councils and other stakeholders. Feedback from this consultation has been used in the draft plan.

The community can make submissions until 28 February and can also provide feedback through an online survey and interactive map. The draft Plan, survey and interactive map can be viewed atwww.planning.nsw.gov.au/centralcoast.

Four goals for the Central Coast

Enhance community lifestyles and accelerate housing supply

A range of new housing options will be made available in existing areas with easy access to public transport, including in and around Gosford city centre, the Gosford to Erina and Tuggerah to Warnervale corridors and local centres across the region.

New land release opportunities will be made available in the Warnervale-Wadalba area and elsewhere in North Wyong. 

Infrastructure in these areas will be delivered as new communities are being created.

Existing centres will be revitalised and a new vibrant centre created at Warnervale, creating more jobs for locals and providing residents access to shops and services.

Grow and diversify the regional economy

The areas with the largest number of jobs on the Central Coast are the Somersby to Erina and Tuggerah to Warnervale Regional Economic Corridors.

The draft plan proposes focusing future infrastructure investment in these areas, to allow them to compete with economic corridors in other regions.

Existing industries including healthcare, education, food production and tourism will be expanded to provide more jobs while there will also be a focus on emerging sectors including renewable energy generation.

The $368 million Gosford Hospital upgrade and a planned $200 million upgrade to Wyong Hospital will also provide more employment opportunities.

Sustain productive land

The NSW Government will work with industry groups, other levels of government, business and the community to grow and sustain the economic productivity of the region’s agricultural and aquaculture sectors.

Protect and manage the natural and cultural environment

Areas with high environmental value will be protected to avoid and minimise impacts of developments on these areas.

The draft plan also proposes protecting water catchments to help sustain high-quality water supplies across the region.

The region’s resilience to natural hazards including flooding will also be increased.


 WET A LINE THIS “GO FISHING DAY”  Sunday December 6, 2015

NSW residents are being encouraged to wet a line this Sunday as part of the NSW Government’s inaugural “Go Fishing Day”. 

Minister for Primary Industries, Niall Blair, said “Go Fishing Day” was a celebration of recreational fishing, which contributes more than $1.6 billion each year to the NSW economy, is a fun pastime for the entire family, and supports regional communities.

“Go Fishing Day” events will be hosted by the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) at six locations across the State, including: 

• Kurnell, Sydney, Kamay Botany Bay National Park (at end of Captain Cook Drive)

•  Nowra, Greys Beach on Shoalhaven River (Fairway Drive)

•  Coffs Harbour, Boambee Creek Reserve

•  Narrandera Fisheries Centre, Narrandera (Buckingbong Drive)

•  Jindabyne, Gaden Trout Hatchery (off Kosciuszko Road)

•  Ebor, Dutton Trout Hatchery (Point lookout Road) 

“We made an election commitment to designate a special day to encourage the community to get out there and fish, I’m proud to say that the “Go Fishing Day” delivers upon that commitment,” Mr Blair said. “The NSW Government is committed to supporting the recreational fishing sector and this year alone more than $15 million from the sale of recreational fishing fees has been invested into projects that directly benefit recreational anglers.” 

The NSW Government has removed the requirement to hold a recreational fishing license for one day only on “Go Fishing Day”, to encourage new participants to take up the pastime. Activities will include free ‘try fishing’ sessions for beginners, adults and children (five years and older), goodie bags with lots of ‘fishy’ giveaways, casting competitions and expert advice from DPI Fisheries staff. 

Free local seafood tastings at Coffs Harbour, Kurnell and Nowra will also be available and educational fish hatchery tours will take place at Jindabyne, Narrandera and Ebor. 

If people cannot get to one of the six locations, they can still join in and be in the draw to win one of 50 high quality rod and reel fishing combos. 

To participate, just take a photo of you fishing or collecting litter from your local fishing spot in NSW on Sunday, 6 December and email it to gofishing.nsw@dpi.nsw.gov.au. More information about “Go Fishing Day” is available at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries/recreational.

Pittwater Mens Probus Club December 2015

Tuesday 8th December 2015 at 11AM

President's Presentation 

Speaker: Arthur Napper

Followed by Xmas Cake and Wine

Partners welcome

We continue our tradition of the surprise President's presentation

Christmas Lunch: Tuesday 15 December 

Contact Gordon Stokes gstokes@bigpond.net.au

Probus is an association of active retirees who join together in the club to provide regular opportunities for them to keep their minds active, expand their interests and to enjoy the fellowship of new friends. Membership is open to anyone of good character who has had some measure of responsibility or achievement in any field of worthy endeavour.

Pittwater Mens Probus has no service club obligations and no fund raising activities.

Our meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month at 10am in the Mona Vale Golf Club.

Find out more at: probus.pittwater.org.au

 

Pittwater's Australia Day Ambassador

03 December 2015

The NSW Australia Day Council has released the names of all Australia Day Ambassadors for 2016 and Pittwater Council is pleased to announce Deputy Police Commissioner Catherine Burn, APM as its Australia Day Ambassador.

Deputy Commissioner Burn will be giving the Australia Day Ambassador address at the Breakfast By the Beach at Bert Payne Reserve on Tuesday 26 January, 7:30am-11:30am.

Pittwater Council’s Mayor, Jacqui Townsend said the Australia Day Ambassador Program is one of the highlights of our Australia Day event – and we are delighted to have Deputy Commissioner Burn, APM participating in our formalities.

“Deputy Commissioner Burn will also be involved in our Citizenship Ceremony, where we welcome 40 new citizens.  Following the official Australia proceedings, Deputy Commissioner Burn will join myself and fellow councillors, mingling with our local community,” added Cr Townsend.

At 19, the Deputy Commissioner joined the Police Force and has spent over 30 years working her way up through the ranks from Local Area Commander to Deputy Commissioner.

However, her accomplishments extend past the Police force with various degrees from Macquarie, UNSW and UTS. She has also received many awards including Burwood Citizen of the Year, Australian Police Medal and International Women’s Day NSW – Woman of the Year in 2007.

In her position as Deputy Commissioner, her responsibilities cover a range of areas including Counter Terrorism and Special Tactics, Forensic Services Operational Communication, just to name a few.

A highly accomplished officer, Deputy Commissioner Burn has also been praised for her management skills, earning her the Telstra Australian Business Woman of the year in 2011.

For information on Pittwater’s Australia Day Breakfast event, visitwww.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/australia_day

 New Volunteers for Ingleside Rural Fire Brigade

December 5, 2015

Congratulations to our 4 newest qualified ‪Ingleside‬ ‪‎volunteers‬; Mark, Stephanie, Tracy & Maddie who today completed their ‪‎Bushfire‬ Fighters Course. After completing over 35 hours of training over the last 6 weeks, they are fully qualified fire-fighters and will now assist Ingleside with attendance to the 80-100 callouts we attend per year.

After finishing the assessment, our crew went straight into the field, to try out our drip torches and hoselines at a local Hazard Reduction burn. Great work in your training guys...

Picture of the new Fire-fighters courtesy Ingleside RFB.

 Extreme Sailing Series™ Starts this Week

Thousands of spectators are expected to line the waterfront at Mrs Macquaries Point to watch as the best in the business go head-to-head on a racecourse set between the Royal Botanic Gardens and Sydney Opera House. Fans who can’t make it down to the Race Village can watch live on Fox Sports Australia, and followers around the world can watch the last races of the season live on the official event website from the 11-13 December

Click here for more information and live times  

Local eyes will be on Katie Pellew-Spithill and her crew on board 33 South Racing.

Match racing champion Katie, who started sailing at Elvina Bay in Pittwater and is sister to America’s Cup-winning skipper James, will be the only female skipper in the high-octane Extreme Sailing Series fleet.

Katie leads a star-studded crew that includes Volvo Ocean Race veteran Stacey Jackson, World Match Racing Tour sailor Henry Kernot and 505 Champion Luke Payne for the four-days of super-fast racing starting on December 10th.

The Extreme Sailing Series racecourse area will be set on Farm Cove, within touching distance of thousands of shoreside spectators, who will be able to watch the action and cheer on the local team from the free-to-enter public race village at Mrs Macquaries Point. The village will be open daily from 10.00am, from 11-13 December 2015.

Top: 33 South Racing in Sydney Harbour preparing for Extreme Sailing Series Finale in December - Photo Credit: Andrea Francolini

 Wave Of Funds For Coastal Dune Restoration

3 December 2015

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes today announced NSW Government funding to restore and protect Pittwater’s coastal dunes. 

Pittwater Council has been allocated $100,000 under the NSW Government’s Coastal Management Program to undertake weed eradication, upgrade fencing and plant new native species.

“Pittwater’s beaches are a defining feature of our community and must be properly protected,” Rob Stokes said today.

“Dunes play a key role in limiting erosion and preserving our invaluable coastal habitats.

“Without proper maintenance and management these key coastal features can become destabilised and overrun with invasive and destructive weeds.

“Regenerating dunes and segregating foot traffic significantly improves their resilience and functionality. 

“I’m delighted the NSW Government is able to support Pittwater Council with this vital initiative,” Rob Stokes said.

 Almost $5 Million In Floodplain Management 

Wednesday, 2 December 2015

Environment Minister Mark Speakman today announced $4.93 million in grants for 10 councils and a local land service to address flood risks throughout NSW.

Mr Speakman said the funding for councils was another way the NSW Government was supporting communities to prepare for extreme weather events well in advance of them occurring.

 “Floods and natural disasters are an inevitable reality in Australia and it is important we support our councils to consolidate the safety of people and property in our communities,” Mr Speakman said.

“The projects are funded under the State Floodplain Management program that works to ensure landowners, businesses and local economies are prepared to meet the challenges of floods and natural hazards.

“Losses from flooding in NSW can be high. Floods can cause irrevocable damage to not only the physical but the emotional wellbeing of our communities.”

The grants will help councils to be better equipped to implement floodplain risk management plans and to prepare the regions that are affected by flooding.

Examples of new projects to be funded include:

• $3.66 million to Murrumbidgee Shire Council to continue the Darlington Point Levee, which once completed will protect the town from most flood events;

• $140,000 to Dungog Shire Council to develop a flood risk management study and use information from the April floods to review its existing studies and determine suitable mitigation strategies.

For more information and project descriptions visit: www.environment.nsw.gov.au/coasts/Floodgrants.htm

Pittwater Council

Great Mackerel Beach Entrance Management Strategy (SFMP)              

The Great Mackeral Beach residents experience periodic flooding which has been attributed to the closed entrance. This study will assess the entrance processes at Great Mackeral Beach and examine any environmental impacts associated with cyclical dredging being incorporated into an ongoing entrance management strategy. An Entrance Management Policy will be developed and will enable a timely and effective response to better assist affected residents.

North Narrabeen Lagoon Overland Flow Flood Study (SFMP) 

Council will undertake a flood study to identify the overland flow paths within the Elanora Heights and Ingleside area, as well as look at how the overland flow paths interact with the mainstream Narrabeen Lagoon flooding.

Northern Beaches Flood Warning and Flood Information Network (SFMP)         

This is an ongoing project that provides a strategic regional approach to the management of rainfall, flow and water level gauges. This information is essential to Council and the public in managing lagoon and flash flooding. The program will keep the website up to date with flooding information and add an additional flood gauge to the network.

Newport Flood Study (FRMGS)   

Council will update the existing Flood Study to ensure overland flow paths entering the mainstream catchment are appropriately identified and mapped. It will look at the interactions of the mainstream flooding and the many overland flow paths within the study area.

Gosford City Council

Gosford Voluntary Purchase – Pearl Beach – Stage 1 (SFMP)

The Green Point Creek, Pearl Beach Flood Study identified a property that would be suitable for purchase to mitigate risk of harm to life. The property in Crystal Avenue is the only principal dwelling built within the floodplain of Green Point Creek.

Gosford Voluntary Purchase – Erina (SFMP)      

The review of the Erina Creek Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan recommends voluntary purchase and demolition of four properties located in Erina. The aim is to eliminate risk to life and continuous property damage by offering voluntary purchase to eligible owners.

Ku-ring-gai Council

Blackbutt Creek Catchment Flood Risk Management Study and Plan – Stage 2 (FRMGS)                  

Council recently completed a flood study for the Blackbutt Creek Catchment.  The study confirmed that the Blackbutt Creek catchment is one of Ku-ring-gai's most significantly flood affected areas where steep terrain and ridge-top development has led to major flood risk arising from flash flooding along headwater streams and drainage depressions. The Flood Risk Management Study and Plan will examine appropriate management actions with the aim of reducing flooding risk for current and future development.

 Northern Beaches Lifesavers Head Back To School

Australia’s most popular primary aged surf education program has closed the books on another successful season with another 12,000 country students getting a lesson on surf safety from our volunteer lifesavers.

Goulbourn to Grafton were on the 2015 itinerary as over 60 schools were visited by 17 Surf Lifesavers from surf clubs all around the state.

The Sydney Northern Beaches Branch was well represented with Andy Cross and Angie Thorpe (South Narrabeen), and Adrienne Low, Greg Punch and John McInally (Dee Why) all making the journey inland.

Throughout the 120 presentations delivered, there were plenty of light hearted moments as students posed in the iconic red and yellow shirts and put on zinc cream while also getting some safety tips from the Smurfs, though the lessons are driven by a serious side.

Statistics revealed that almost half of drownings in NSW waters involved a victim who lived over 50 kilometres from the beach, and with many country kids not getting the same access to surf education safety it was determined that the best way to help keep these kids safe at the beach was to take the lessons to them.

Surf Life Saving NSW Community Education Officer Stacey Pidgeon paid tribute to the dedication of the volunteers whom without, the Beach to Bush program wouldn’t be possible.

“It really is a unique program in its delivery and the way we can educate so many children at the one time. I would really like to thank the presenters who gave up their valuable time to help deliver these vital safety messages.

“By all reports they had a fantastic time out on the road and the kids really gained something out of it as well,” Ms Pidgeon said.

The 2015 Beach to Bush Program ran from November 23-27 and visited the following locations;

Inverell, Glen Innes, Grafton, Armidale, Guyra, Dorrigo, Walcha, Bendemeer, Manilla, Bingara, Uralla, Quirindi Gunnedah, Narrabri, Lithgow Region, Goulburn Region, Wagga Wagga Region, Narrandera, Griffith, Leeton and Coolamon.

The Beach to Bush Program, supported by ClubsNSW and the NSW Cancer Institute, is the largest and most innovative surf safety education program in Australia, having reached more than 270,000 primary school students since it began in 1994.

________________

South Narrabeen lifesavers Andy Cross and Angie Thorpe certainly made plenty of young school children happy when they spread the lifesaving gospel during the 'Beach to Bush' program.

Andy and Angie visited schools in Walcha, Bendemeer, Manilla, Bingara and Uralla.

''I suppose about 50 per cent of the kids had been to a beach before but the other 50 per cent had never seen the ocean ,'' Andy said.

''They loved hearing about the rips, sharks, bluebottles and jellyfish.

''The main message, of course, was the red and yellow flags and swimming between those flags when you go to the beach. 

''I also took a video of South Narrabeen and they were rapt. We also took questions from the kids.

''And the kids absolutely loved it when we put zinc on their faces.''

Picture – courtesy SLS NSW: Andy and Angie had the time of their lives talking to these primary school children about the beach.

 Narrabeen Lakes Sailing Club Learn to Sail Sessions

After a couple of weeks, our LTS course resumed Sunday November 29. Thank you to our young instructors who paired with our learners, and to our heroner who took our kids out to get a different perspective on the water. It was a great day!

Narrabeen Lakes Sailing Club is a not-for-profit community organisation based at Jamieson Park, Narrabeen Lakes.

We are here to encourage sailors of every ability – the junior, the novice, the experienced – and to offer them a club environment in which they can learn, improve their skills, race and enjoy the company of like-minded community members.

We have a very strong community focus and love nothing more than encouraging everyone – mums, dads, grandparents, kids – to jump into a boat or onto a sailboard and simply give it a go.

We place almost as much emphasis on socialising as we do on sailing, and our club is built on the values of camaraderie, role-modelling and team spirit.

Find out more at: www.narrabeenlakessailingclub.com

 NBI Respite, Recreation, Support Host Program 2016

Volunteer in 2016!: Is one of your New Years Resolutions to give back to your community in 2016?

Our Host program links children with a disability with a volunteer ‘host’ family for fun and friendship. Host volunteers come from all walks of life and can be singles, couples or families.

As a host volunteer you will have the opportunity to care for a child with a mild disability on a regular basis, usually 1-2 days per month. This can happen in your own home or on an activity in the community.

The host program gives the host child a fun and interactive social experience with another family and also provides their family with a break from their caring responsibilities and the rewards can be amazing!

As a host you will be required to set aside at least one day per month to care for your host child. Prior to matching volunteers with a host child NBI will provide training and will conduct the necessary checks to ensure the safety of the host child.

NBI are looking for more Host families in 2016 and would like to hear from local families who can offer a fun and safe environment.

For more information please contact Louise at NBI on 02 9970 0500 or email louise@nbi.org.au

 The 2015 Enliven Christmas Window Display Competition 

In the lead up to Christmas, Pittwater Council invites all local businesses with street frontages in Mona Vale, Newport and Avalon village centres, to take part in the ‘2015 Enliven Christmas Window Display Competition’.

Celebrate your business and Christmas by throwing your creative energy into your shop windows! Lights, decorations, stickers, anything sustainable to decorate your windows and help create a special Christmas experience for locals and visitors.

Participants will also be in the running for some great prizes.

Competition Prizes

First Prizes - Local dining vouchers (valued at $250) in each relevant village centre

Highly Commended Prizes- Local dining vouchers (valued at $200) in each relevant village centre.

Benefits for participating businesses;

• Added promotion through Council’s media channels, Enliven App, Pittwater Business Limited websites, and local Chambers of Commerce outlets.

• One prize winner and one highly commended prize winner will be awarded in each of the three centres.

• Judging panel arranged by Enliven Pittwater.

Online Registration

To register complete the online entry form by 14 December 2015. 

See terms & conditions.

Registrations close: Monday 14 December 2015

 Judging:  From 15 -17 December 2015

Announcement of winners: Monday 21 December 2015

Terms and Conditions for Pittwater Council – ‘2015 Enliven Christmas Window Display Competition’:

The Promoter is Pittwater Council, PO Box 882, Mona Vale NSW 1660.

Employees, Contractors and Councillors of The Promoter are not eligible to enter.

Only one entry per business is permitted. Entrants must register their information on the Pittwater Council website between 23 November and 14 December 2015.

Winners from each village centre will be notified by phone / email and published on Pittwater Council’s website.

The Enliven Christmas 2015 window display competition is supported by Mona Vale Chamber of Commerce, Avalon-Palm Beach Business Chamber and Pittwater Business Ltd (PBL).

 

Festive fun at Mona Vale Library

Mona Vale Library is decking the halls for festive fun this season with a Christmas Pantomime, Mrs Claus’ Christmas and free movie screening of ‘Elf’ (G certified).

Children of all ages are invited to Mona Vale Memorial Hall on Saturday 12 December from 3.15pm to enjoy Mrs Claus’ Christmas.

This fun-filled pantomime is set on Christmas Eve, Santa Claus has been kidnapped by Barry Von Baddie, who has always been on the naughty list – and it prompts Mrs Claus to spring into action!

Mona Vale Library will also hold a free screening of Elf (G certified) on Thursday 17 December from 6.15pm.

Elf, tells a comical story about Buddy (Will Ferrell) who was accidentally transported to the North Pole as a toddler and raised to adulthood among Santa's elves. Unable to shake the feeling that he doesn't fit in, the adult Buddy travels to New York, in full elf uniform, in search of his real father.

Festive refreshments will be available and Christmas themed dress-ups are encouraged!

Bookings are essential for both events; the cost for the Pantomime, being held at Mona Vale Memorial Hall, on Saturday 12 December from 3.15pm is $5. 

The screening of ‘Elf’, at Mona Vale Library is on Thursday 17 December from 6.15pm is free, however bookings are essential and can be made by calling: 9970 1600

Full details on these events and more are available on the Mona Vale Library website. 

 Help to Build Barrenjoey High School's Future

BHS are now in full swing with their latest fundraising project which is the building of The Barrenjoey Community Performance Space! 

Designed by renowned local architect Richard Cole - this acoustically designed purpose built space will seat an audience of 200, and will play host to many Community and School performing arts programs such as dance, drama, musical concerts, film nights, lectures and so much more! 

BHS need your support Community! 

If you think you can help, please call Barrenjoey High School 02 99188811 or visit their website www.barrenjoeyhighschool.com.au 

Or leave a message here and we'll get in touch!

More information to follow. This is what we've all been waiting for!

Top; external front of the Barrenjoey Community Performance Space - end of phase 3 – completion

 Children's Books For Bear Cottage

A local Manly writer, Terri Cracknell, has written and Illustrated four fabulous children's books that would make great gifts for Christmas!

Books retail for $12 and all profits from sales of the books go to Bear Cottage!

The books can be bought directly by emailingterrazzo@iprimus.com.au and are also available from bookshops and the Manly Art Gallery & Museum.

 2015 to 2016 double demerit periods

The double demerit points period applies from midnight of the start date to midnight on the finish date.

Midnight Wednesday 23 December to midnight Sunday 3 January (or 24 December 2015 to 3 January 2016 inclusive)

 New signs to honour Delegate’s Aboriginal Place

Media release: 4 December 2015

Aboriginal people with a connection to Delegate Aboriginal Reserve near Bombala will return to the former government mission site on Saturday, 5 December to unveil signage recognising the area as an Aboriginal Place.

Barrina South from the Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) South East Heritage Division expects around 60 people will travel from across South East NSW to attend the unveiling and to reconnect with the site.

“Unveiling these signs will reinforce the protection of the Reserve as a legally recognised Aboriginal Place that has significant history and a living culture,” said Ms South.

“By clearly marking the area we are acknowledging its continuing importance to the community and reminding people that it is forbidden to harm or desecrate the site.”

Ms South said the celebration was initiated by the McLeod sisters, Donna and Sharon, who were instrumental in establishing the Aboriginal Place under the National Parks and Wildlife Act.

Officially recognised as an Aboriginal Place in 2012, Donna and Sharon nominated the Reserve because it was a traditional camping ground and a settlement site for the Ngarigo, Monaro, Bidawal, Maap and Gippsland peoples.  It is located within Ngarigo Country and was a government-managed Aboriginal Reserve between 1892 and 1957.

“Many Aboriginal people still have family connections to the site so this event is really a catalyst to bring everyone together again on Country,” Ms Sharon McLeod said.

“Officially marking the area as an Aboriginal Place is more than installing signage, the day will be a true celebration of living culture and respectful recognition of the area’s history and elders past.

“It’s a chance for us to revisit the site and for the younger generation to learn more about our heritage from a place that holds special significance,” said Ms Sharon McLeod.

Protecting Delegate Aboriginal Reserve as an Aboriginal Place is a partnership between OEH Heritage Division, National Parks and Wildlife Service Bombala Office and the McLeod family.

OEH has an ongoing program of assessing and recommending the declaration of areas as Aboriginal Places throughout NSW and supports Aboriginal people reconnecting to country.

People wanting to find out more about declared Aboriginal Places across the state, or to nominate a site for declaration can visit: www.environment.nsw.gov.au/AboriginalPlacesNSW.

 $20 million to help those who help others

Federal Minister for Social Services

Community organisations across Australia are now able to apply for a share of $20 million in grants to support and encourage the work of their volunteers.

In opening the Volunteer Grants 2015 round, Minister for Social Services, the Hon Christian Porter MP, said the funding will help make the work of Australia’s six million volunteers easier, safer and more enjoyable.

“Through these grants of between $1,000 and $5,000, community organisations can purchase much-needed equipment such as computers, contribute to volunteers’ training, or use it to support fundraising efforts.

“Volunteers play a critical role in building stronger and more resilient communities—whether it is by helping out with local sporting teams and land care groups, responding to natural disasters and emergencies, or helping local charities.

“This year’s Volunteer Grants gives priority to organisations working with individuals or communities experiencing disadvantage, including communities affected by natural disasters—so we encourage organisations in these areas to apply.

“This funding demonstrates the Government’s commitment to supporting the volunteers who give their time to help others and encourage social harmony,” Mr Porter said.

Applications for Volunteer Grants close 2pm AEDT, Wednesday 9 December 2015.

For further information go to dss.gov.au/grants. Alternatively, contact the Volunteer Grants 2015 Hotline on freecall 1800 183 374 or emailvg2015@dss.gov.au(link sends e-mail). 

Tax Deductible Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade Building Fund

By Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade

Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade is an entirely volunteer NSW Rural Fire Service station located on Sydney's northern beaches.
We are responsible for protecting people and property from bushfire in the Davidson, French Forest, Forestville and Killarney Heights area, which includes over 10,000 homes. We also assist in search and rescues, storm damage and other incidents whenever called upon.

Our Brigade has more than 100 volunteers who commit thousands of hours every year to the service of our community. Our volunteers are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Last year the Brigade contributed over 9,500 hours in service of the community.

Why We Need Your Help
In recent years, the Brigade has outgrown the current station, which is unable to adequately accommodate our volunteers, vehicles and equipment. As such, we are embarking on a building project, which will:
• Add two additional fire truck garages (doubling our firefighting capacity),
• Provide a dedicated education room for the public and a training facility to ensure our volunteers receive the best training to help better serve the community.

How you can help
We need your help to raise a further $150,000. The State government has committed substantial funding to the building project. However, there is a shortfall of $150,000 we need to raise to ensure our project is undertaken and ready for Fire Season 2016/17.

We hold deductible gift recipient status. Any donation you make to us is tax deductible and we will issue you a receipt which indicates this. You can give a tax deductible donation:

1. Online through Chuffed: www.chuffed.org/project/buyabrick 
2. By EFT by direct deposit to: Account Name - Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade Gift Fund Account, BSB: 032-299 Account number: 111245,
3. By Cheque made payable to the Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade, orCash, posted to PO Box 128, Belrose West NSW 2085.

Your help in raising $150,000 is greatly appreciated and will help us better serve and protect.

Thank you!
Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade.

 Polo by the Sea to Return to Palm Beach in 2016

Your next chance to see all the action and social highlights of Urban Polo in Sydney is Palm Beach on 9 January 2016! 

Tickets are on sale now to UPA Members, and to the public via Ticketek. Visit the Polo by the Sea website for more details:www.polobythesea.com.au

 BUY A 2016 DOGGIE RESCUE CALENDAR AND SAVE A FURRY LIFE

The much loved Doggie Rescue calendar is back, and this year features the adorable Maeko as the cover star. Maeko is one of 11,466 dogs that have been saved from death row through the tireless hard work and dedication of Sydney’s largest private NO KILL animal welfare organisation. These 2016 calendars represent so much more than dates on page, each and every one contributes directly to saving the lives of our best friends.

Maeko was rescued from one of the many pounds around NSW and he represents what happens when abandoned and unloved pets are given a second chance at life thanks to founder and CEO Monika Biernacki; 

“The number of dogs facing death row every day in Australia is truly shocking. These beautiful animals all deserve the opportunity to find their forever home and I am so proud that over 11,000 of them are now happily part of their new families”.

The Doggie Rescue calendar forms the main fundraiser for this well respected charity, and with all proceeds going straight back to the organisation, it means that many, many more lives will be saved. If all the calendars find their way into homes around Australia, that represents more than 1200 dogs provided with food, shelter and basic veterinary costs.

There are literally thousands of heartbreaking stories behind these animals, but it is the heartwarming result of every new adoption that provides the drive that keeps Monika and her dedicated volunteers going;

“Doggie Rescue was created to provide a viable NO KILL alternative in Sydney and to educate the public on their lifelong responsibilities when owning a dog. Dogs are not an impulse purchase and people need to become educated about where their new addition has come from. Rescue dogs are very special, most adoptees tell us that in actual fact, the rescue dog has saved them! There is nothing like the love and dedication of a rescued animal. ”

The 2016 DoggieRescue calendar costs just $15 and makes the perfect Christmas gift for friends and family. It is available online at www.DoggieRescue.com.au or can be purchased by calling 9486 3133 or by visiting the shelter at Ingleside.

www.doggierescue.com/2016calendar.htm

 Gone Fishing Gallery at Waterfront Store Church Point

Open again TODAY in the top room Waterfront Store

Open mainly weekends as an addition to the waterfront cafe. 

Keep up to date on their Facebook page

DoggieRescue.com

Pet of the Week

Andy
AGE/SEX: 4 years / M
BREED: Rottweiler x
Andy has successfully completed the Hanrob accredited Dog Training School where he stayed for 18 days at their live-in obedience training facility. Andy is a very sweet kissy, affectionate boy who would best suit an active family into jogging or running who also have patience to get him used to suburban life. He is social with other dogs and he is even possum friendly!!! He has a short coat and weighs 28kg. He comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. His adoption cost is $350. 

For further details or to meet all dogs at call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email monika@DoggieRescue.com. Visit www.DoggieRescue.com to see all our dogs. www.facebook.com/doggierescue 

 November 29 - December 5, 2015: Issue 242

 Articles This Week

Front Page Issue 242:  

Whale Beach SLSC Awarded Rescue of the Month, to Hold Bronze Training in January: an Opportunity to Begin 2016 by Joining the Biggest Team in the World

The latest news from Pittwater’s Sister Village, Soibada, Timor Leste by Tamara Sloper Harding, Chairperson, Pittwater Friends of Soibada Inc

Northern Beaches Interchange (NBI) Annual Celebration and AGM: 2014/2015 Report

The Beach: An Australian Passion by Robert Drewe - great new book from NLA  and an Award Winning Australian writer - perfect for Summer Celebrations

Reflections by George RepinFLORIADE – THE NETHERLANDS – 1982

Aquatics: Dan Fitzgibbons and Liesl Tesch Great Opening Day at 2015 Para World Sailing Championships in Melbourne

DIY Ideas: Outdoor Furniture Mark I: Easy to Make Benches for Your Garden For Table, Shady Groves, For Summer Visitors and Family

New boats ignite Club Marine Pittwater to Coffs Yacht Race 2016 by Lisa Ratcliff

Park Bench PhilosopherElanora - A Beautiful View from Which to Catch the Sea Breeze - Some Early Notes and Pictures: from 1887 to 1938

Pictures: 2015 Year in Review: Nature - Earth, Air, Water, Stone

Artist of the Month: December 2015 - Michelle Ball creates and share beautiful paintings of our offshore areas that evoke the spirit of this land's innate phoenix nature

Profile: Michelle Ball: one of Pittwater's best painters immerses herself in bush regeneration work, strolls along offshore paths, and paints what she sees to communicate that something wonderful lives all around us here

History: Early Pittwater Paddlers, Oarsmen, Rowers and Scullers - The Green Family: From Greenwich, to Mossman and Milsom's Bay and Pittwater - boatbuilders and scullers - from 1810 to 1921...

 New President, Executive Director and Annual Report for SHOROC

27 November 2015

The value of councils working together for the northern beaches and north shore has again been demonstrated as SHOROC released its annual report, while new leaders have taken the reins of the award-winning organisation for the year ahead.

Over $140 million in infrastructure funding for the region through advocacy, the state’s highest accolade in planning excellence, plans to supports jobs in the visitor economy and $1.6M in waste grants are highlights in the SHOROC 2014-15 Annual Report. 

In presenting the Annual Report, outgoing SHOROC President and Mayor of Mosman, Cr Peter Abelson said that even though it has been a challenging year for local government, SHOROC has continued to help deliver great outcomes for our councils and this region. 

“We have built and consolidated strong partnerships to ensure councils have a central role in implementing the major regional infrastructure projects. With over $770M allocated to the region for transport and health services as a result of regional advocacy in recent years, we are now working closely with the state to help make the most of this investment. 

The partnership with the NSW Government is a major achievement of SHOROC with a model of council and state government collaboration that has delivered great outcomes for the region. Other areas of success include SHOROC’s joint procurement service which now centrally manages seven contracts worth $18.5M annually which are used by 10 councils across northern Sydney.

The Annual Report was released at the SHOROC AGM which also saw the election of Cr Jean Hay Mayor of Manly as President and Cr Michael Regan Mayor of Warringah as Vice-President.

Cr Hay says it is an honour to be elected the SHOROC President. 

“SHOROC is a leader for what can be achieved collectively and it is a privilege to be elected President as we work together for our region. 

“I would also like to acknowledge the work of outgoing President, Cr Peter Abelson who led SHOROC through a challenging yet quite successful year in terms of funding allocated to the region for much needed transport and health infrastructure.

“We plan to build on these successes and continue advocating on behalf of the Northern Beaches and Mosman. 

“Transport and health remain our core priorities and we will be working with the government to deliver the BRT, road upgrades, new hospital and community health services that we have so strongly advocated for over the past decade. 

Cr Hay made particular mention and thanks to the outgoing SHOROC Executive Director Ben Taylor who led the organisation for six years and achieved much for the region, and welcomed Dominic Johnson the new Executive Director.

“On behalf of our councils I thank our State and Federal MPs, the SHOROC Board, councillors and staff who have made outstanding contributions and demonstrate what councils can achieve through partnership and I look forward to continuing to work together for the benefit of the region and our areas,” Cr Hay said.

SHOROC 2014/15 Annual Report - (PDF - 1.16 MB)

 Beware of the Bullets Regatta at Palm Beach Sailing Club

Day 2 and Results

Over 30 entries including a number of National and World Champions participated in 2 days of Racing. The wind Gods looked favourably on our little regatta and we had 2 Days of wonderful sailing.

Day 2 a number of additional boats joined in on the Fun including Taylor Booth and Bridget Waterhouse both coming from families rich in sailing History from the Northern Beaches.

4 divisions again showed up in the 10 to 15 Knot North Easter.

Final results and the crowning of the 2015 champions included

- F 18 (high speed performance catamarans): Dan and Nathan Kerchoff

-Hobie 16 (one of the most widely raced Classes around the world):  Anthony Duchatel and Evelyn Curtis.

- Hobie 18 /misc class: Mick Colecliffe

-Weta class open single handed Trimaran that has been included with the laser in the Next World Masters Games: Peter Graham

I would like to thank everyone who participated and assisted in the running yet of another very successful Regatta, including our very valuable sponsors  DB yachts and our Starter (PRO )David Renouf who was also the proud father of Sophie( F18) and Rachael (H16) who both participated in the racing.

Sailing Scene at Mona Vale thanks Simon for your support.

RSH electrical supplies. Andrew Nelson accounting services 

Quay Marina thanks Steve Howell for your generous time and the availability of your beautiful RIB.

Also to the many club members who worked tirelessly making the Beware of the Bullets Regatta (refers to a strong gust of breeze) a success again this Year.

See you all next year.

Richard Lacey

Commodore, Palm Beach Sailing Club

 VALE: BETTY BAILY

One of the most loved Peninsula personalities has passed away, the irrepressible Betty Baily. 

Betty passed on peacefully in her sleep last Thursday, November 26, 2015, aged 95. Renown for her vivacious nature and the likelihood of bursting into song on impulse, Betty worked as an actress, on stage in South Pacific, and in film, illuminating roles in They're a Weird MobMad Max 2  and Babe.

Betty brightened the day of so many for so many years. 

Her late husband Hal was a champion lifesaver at Whale Beach and together they swam in The Big Swim a number of times, up until Hal was in his early eighties.

A very loving couple who were great mentors to others. 

This grand lady gave so much of herself to enliven others and will be so fondly remembered. 

Betty’s Memorial Service is expected to be on December 7th at St David’s Palm Beach.

Rob Berry, Whale Beach S.L.S.C.

NOTICE

Dear Readers and Contributors

Please be advised that the Final Issue of Pittwater Online News for 2015 will be published on the 20th of December, 2015 – No 245.

The First Issue for 2016 will be published on the 10th of January, 2016 – No 246.

Contributors who wish to list News or New Year Events that falls within those dates are asked to have these in, ready to Publish, by the 18th of December.

We shall not be back in the Office prior to January the 5th 2015 for Contributors wishing to add Items to the January 10th, 2016 Issue. These may still be sent and will be attended to promptly on our return.

Pittwater Online News.

 Northern Beaches Concert Band Appointment of New Band Director 

Northern Beaches Concert Band is delighted to welcome its new band director, Ms Sarah Shaw.  Sarah has been appointed, following the resignation of Matthew Browne, due to illness.  

Matthew led Monatones, now the Northern Beaches Concert Band (NBCB) for almost 20 years and his dedication, sense of humour and commitment will be sorely missed.

Sarah is an experienced popular local band director who is brimming with ideas for the band.  “Playing in a band is a wonderful, rewarding way to improve your skills in a fun and supportive environment.  I am very excited about working with such an inclusive and motivated group of musicians”, said Sarah.  

Over the past four weeks under Sarah’s direction, the band has been preparing for the Narrabeen Christmas Markets on Saturday 28th November at 11.00am.  Numbers to be played included A Merry Mozart Christmas, Georgia on my Mind, Man from Snowy River, Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah, along with several other pieces.  

An added pleasure for band members at this particular gig is that a few of the band members’ children have asked if they could play with the “oldies”, much to the “oldies” surprise!  As band member, clarinettist Ian Blume said, he was really chuffed that his daughter, who plays in her local school and regional band, was keen to play alto sax with her “daggy dad”!

Northern Beaches Concert Band will kick off 2016 with a new repertoire on Wednesday 3rd February 2016 at 7.30pm at the Pittwater High School Music Room, Mona Street, Mona Vale.NBCB encourages all those adult players out there to dust off their instruments and come and try the band out.  The band is always looking for more flutes, clarinets, saxophones, French horns, euphoniums, tubas, trombones, etc.  There are easy parts, more difficult parts – something for everybody!  

Enquiries: 0414 560 263 (Denise Morgan)

 

Have your say on traffic and parking around Mona Vale

18 Nov 2015

Pittwater Council is inviting residents and local business to have their say on traffic and parking around Mona Vale.

General Manager Mark Ferguson said the community can have their say by completing a quick online survey about how they travel and park in and around Mona Vale Town Centre.

“The study will help Council better understand how local residents travel to Mona Vale Town Centre, where they park (if they drive) and their public transport usage,” said Mr Ferguson.

Mr Ferguson said the survey forms just one aspect of the Mona Vale place planning process that will help develop a vision and plan that will guide future sustainable improvements for the town centre.

“Earlier this year we ran a series of urban talks, workshops and interactive activities around the Mona Vale Place Plan.

“We were delighted with the level of interest, with close to 1,300 community comments received over the engagement period.

“The Imagine Mona Vale – Engagement Summary report provides an overview of the feedback from the various engagement activities undertaken to date. Key themes explored included improving the pedestrian experience, with wider footpaths and better access to public transport and connectivity to the beach.

“Feedback included a desire for an improved pedestrian-focus for the town centre, especially on key retail streets such as Bungan Street, Park Street and Pittwater Road.

“Part of our vision for Mona Vale is to enhance access and linkages around the centre that encourage more active transport, namely walking and cycling.

The Traffic and Parking survey forms part of the overall place planning process providing us with vital data to develop a strategy for the centre,” added Mr Ferguson.

Complete the survey – closes December 1st, 2015 

View the Imagine Mona Vale – Engagement Summary report 

Pittwater Waterway Review: Our Waterway Future

Pittwater Council is undertaking a review to improve the management of the Pittwater waterway now and into the future.

The Pittwater waterway is a natural icon and distinguishing feature of our region’s identity. The waterway is a focus for leisure, tourism and business and an important environmental asset.

The waterway is under pressure from a range of competing demands. The aim of the review is to ensure its sustainable management, embracing environmental, social, economic and governance considerations.

Demands on the waterway

The review will consider how to manage competing demands including:

• Growth in boat ownership and vessel size

• Demand for moorings, marinas and boat infrastructure (pump out facilities, dingy storage, on-street boat parking)

• Public access to the foreshore and waterway

• Protection of flora and fauna

• Recreation

• Tourism

• Economy and employment

• Water quality

• Governance and planning controls

Have your say

Complete the online survey to have your say on the Pittwater Waterway Review. Online survey will close on 30 November 2015

Timeframes

The review will occur over the next 18 months with several opportunities to have your say.

McCarrs Creek Rd realignment and new car park project

Pittwater Council Page Updated: 27 Nov 2015: 

At the Council meeting on Monday 7th December Council will consider a report providing an update on the realignment of McCarrs Creek Road and new car park at Church Point.

• 7 December 2015 - Council Report (7.3MB)

The features include:

• A new piered seawall with suspended timber pedestrian boardwalk

• Realignment of McCarrs Creek Road between the Commuter Wharf and Rosstrevor Reserve

• A new 120 space car park, landscaping and façade, providing 60 spaces for general access via pay and display and 60 premium (guaranteed) spaces

The total cost of the project is $9.755 million with construction due to start in June 2016.

• The Council report provides details about:

- Further design and analysis

- Costs and financial modelling

- Results of Environmental Impact Assessment

- Proposed Parking Demand Management Strategy to address needs of residents, businesses and visitors

- Land Ownership Arrangements 

- Native Title Claim

All related documents on Pittwater Council's website Here 

__________________________

Please note Council office hours over the holiday period:

• Thursday 17 December - Closed (from 12pm to 2.30pm)

• Thursday 24 December - Closed

• Friday 25 December - Closed

• Monday 28 December - Closed

• Tuesday 29 December - Open

• Wednesday 30 December - Open

• Thursday 31 December - Open

• Friday 1 January 2016 - New Years' Day

Outside our opening hours you can contact Council on the out-of-hours service by calling 9970 1111 or by visitingwww.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/contact_council

Library opening hours

Mona Vale Library will be closed 24 December and will re-open on Tuesday 29 December. The library will also close at 2pm on 31 December and re-open Saturday 2 January 2016.

Avalon Library will be closed on Friday 25 December and will re-open on Tuesday 29 December. The library will also close Friday 1 January 2016.

Council meetings

Council’s last meeting of the year will be held on Monday 21 December, with meetings resuming on Monday 1 February 2016. The Development Unit will begin meetings at the end of January 2016.

Enliven Pittwater - Summer sessions

Pack a picnic and enjoy the sounds of summer with our series of FREE open-air pop-up music performances. Mona Vale, Newport and Avalon will come alive with relaxing bluegrass, jazz and classical music. Sponsored by Enliven Pittwater, these events feature the Green Mohair Suits, The Bluejays, Pittwater String Trio, The Distant Sons, and Ahava Ensemble. Concerts will run over six sessions from 3 December 2015 until 15 January 2016. Download the Enliven App for the full program.

Summer Sessions: 3rd Dec 2015 5:30pm-7:30pm

Sit, relax and enjoy live bluegrass music at Bert Payne Reserve, Newport Beach

Summer Sessions: 4th Dec 2015 5:30pm-7:30pm

Sit, relax and enjoy live jazz music at Dunbar Park, Avalon

Newport Village Xmas Party: 10th Dec 2015 5:00pm-9:00pm

Bring the family to Robertson Road Newport

Summer Sessions: 11th Dec 2015 12:00pm-2:00pm

Sit, relax and enjoy live classical music in Library Lane, Mona Vale

Summer Sessions: 17th Dec 2015 5:30pm-7:30pm

Sit, relax and enjoy live bluegrass music at Bert Payne Reserve, Newport Beach

Summer Sessions: 15th Jan 2016 12:00pm-2:00pm

Sit, relax and enjoy live classical music at Library Lane, Mona Vale

Summer Sessions: 15th Jan 2016 5:30pm-7:30pm

Sit, relax and enjoy live jazz music at Dunbar Park, Avalon

 Australian crew gets ready to go Extreme Sailing on Sydney Harbour 

November 24, Extreme Sailing Series

With just under two weeks until the start of the Extreme Sailing Series™ 2015 season finale on Sydney Harbour, a local wildcard entry of Aussie sailors is beginning an intensive training build-up to try and spring a surprise on some of the best multihull sailors in the world.

While much of the focus will be on Leigh McMillan and his impressive crew on The Wave Muscat, as McMillan tries to close out an unprecedented third Extreme Sailing Series championship, local eyes will be on Katie Spithill and her newcomers on board 33 South Racing.

Match racing champion Spithill, who started sailing at Elvina Bay in Pittwater and is sister to America’s Cup-winning skipper James, will be the only female skipper in the high-octane Extreme Sailing Series fleet.

She leads a star-studded crew that includes Volvo Ocean Race veteran Stacey Jackson, World Match Racing Tour sailor Henry Kernot and 505 Champion Luke Payne for the four-days of super-fast racing starting on December 10th.

As the wild card entry for the final regatta of the eight-stop global tour, Spithill knows they have a lot to learn, something she was happy to acknowledge after their first outing in their Extreme 40 thoroughbred catamaran in a blustery 20-knot breeze on Sydney Harbour.

“After the boat was put together we were itching to get her in the water to see how she goes,” said Spithill. “It’s great fun, but as a race team we’ve got a steep learning curve ahead of us if we are going to train enough in the coming month in order to be competitive against such a high-level fleet.”

The Extreme Sailing Series racecourse area will be set on Farm Cove, within touching distance of thousands of shoreside spectators, who will be able to watch the action and cheer on the local team from the free-to-enter public race village at Mrs Macquaries Point. The village will be open daily from 10.00am, from 11-13 December 2015.

Top: 33 South Racing in Sydney Harbour preparing for Extreme Sailing Series Finale in December - Photo Credit: Andrea Francolini

Barrenjoey Road Improvements

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes announced on November 12th that work will begin on improvements to Barrenjoey Road at Avalon Beach.
 
The NSW Government is funding essential road resurfacing works along the 1.3 km section of Barrenjoey Road between the Serpentine and Wollstonecraft Avenue.
 
The project will complement other major resurfacing works completed along Barrenjoey Road in recent years including Careel Bay to Palm Beach and the Bilgola Bends.
 
“This project will deliver a vastly improved road service,” Rob Stokes said today.
 
“Barrenjoey Road is among our community’s most vital road arteries and is used by thousands of motorists every day.
 
“Other key sections of Barrenjoey Road have been resurfaced over recent years and this project will help complete the stretch between Newport and Palm Beach.
 
“This is all about delivering a stronger, smoother and safer road surface.
 
Works are scheduled to be completed over 8 night shifts, between 8pm and 5am, from Sunday 15 November until Friday 4 December – weather permitting.
 
“Necessary lane closures will be in place and on-street parking will be restricted in certain areas.
 
“It’s pleasing to see this project funded and ready to commence,” Rob Stokes said

 TEAM NAVY JOINS FORCES IN THE 2016 GEORGE BASS SURF MARATHON

The Royal Australian Navy’s Team Navy brand has received a major boost with the announcement of the continued alliance with one of Australia’s most demanding marathon races from 3 to 9 January 2016 racing from Bateman’s Bay to Eden on the beautiful NSW South Coast.

This is the Longest, Toughest Surfboat Race in the world. The George Bass Surf Marathon commenced in 1975 and surf skis were added to the event in the 1990's. It is a truly unique experience for all competitors; friendships are made for life once you become part of the Bass family.

George Bass Marathon Race Director Andrew Edmunds said they were very pleased to be again have Team Navy a part of the 2016 event.

“The Bass goes hand in hand with the Navy lifestyle – team work, dedication, camaraderie and fitness,” Mr Edmunds said.

“Team Navy will be providing valuable assistance to the event in terms of logistic support and you’ll be able to see them every day during the event at the start and finish beaches.”

The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) launched its “Team Navy” brand in 2011 with the announcement of a partnership with Prodrive Racing Australia (PRA) in the V8 Supercars championship and now totals six of Australia’s premier sporting teams with more to be announced in the New Year.

Lieutenant Commander Don Hogarth, Manager Team Navy said the partnership with GBSM has been ongoing since 2008 and was beneficial in raising the profile of lifesaving and helping gain community support.

For more information on Team Navy visit www.teamnavy.com.au

 Have your say on a new community health centre at Brookvale

05.11.2015: Media Release - Department of Planning and Environment

A proposal to construct a new community health centre along Pittwater Road at Brookvale will be on exhibition from today for community feedback.

The Department of Planning and Environment is keen to hear the community’s views on the application which seeks to:

construct a new four storey community health centre building

construct a pedestrian bridge crossing Pittwater Road

construct a seven storey car park at the rear of the building

construct a loading service bay next to the car park

construct external signage on the northern and southern sides of the building.

A spokesperson for the Department of Planning and Environment said the local community always has an opportunity to share their views. 

“Community consultation is an integral part of the planning process and the applicant will have to respond to the feedback we receive and this is taken into consideration when we develop our recommendations,” the spokesperson said. 

“It’s easy to participate by going online and we encourage everyone to take a look and have their say.” 

To make a submission or view the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), visit www.majorprojects.planning.nsw.gov.au.

Submissions can be made from Thursday 5 November until Friday 4 December 2015.

Written submissions can also be made to:

Department of Planning and Environment, Attn: Director – Infrastructure Assessments GPO Box 39, Sydney NSW 2001

The application and EIS is also available to view in person at:

Department of Planning and Environment, 23-33 Bridge Street, Sydney

Warringah Council, Civic Centre, 725 Pittwater Road, Dee Why

Dee Why Library, 725 Pittwater Road, Dee Why

Warringah Mall Library, Shop 650, 2nd Floor, Warringah Mall, 145 Old Pittwater Road, Brookvale

You can find about the Brookvale Community Health Centre and the Northern Beaches Health Service Redevelopment HERE

 ABHS December Meeting: Stewart Towers of Barranjoey Headland

The next meeting of the Avalon Beach Historical Society will be held on TUESDAY 1 DECEMBER in the Avalon Beach Bowling Club, Bowling Green Lane. It will be our last meeting of the year and start at 8pm sharp. It’s a special meeting because we will be revealing the culmination of our 2 years work on the;           

STEWART TOWERS of BARRANJOEY HEADLAND.

Member David Lyall has completed a first class job on the model of the larger, Inner Stewart Tower to the scale of 1:12 (20 inches/half a metre high). It will be on show on the night for the first time. 

The design is the result of intense research on scant information obtained from many reliable sources too numerous to mention here.

John Illingsworth (along with his apprentice Geoff) has produced a fabulous film to take you along our path from initial investigation to the ‘finished product’. He has captured some wonderful footage using his drone at 6am on several mornings and the colours of the northern face of the headland are almost too rich to believe. The footage serves as a fine base and contrast into which is woven some fascinating historic stills.

We will also discuss the Barranjoey Headland trolley-way and its 2 components – one track from the base of the headland to the quarry and one (as a continuation of the lower track) from the quarry to the construction site. We will have 2 remnant pieces of the hardwood ‘rails’ on display, one blackened by the 1912 fire. They have been donated to the Society.

Apologies to those who were looking forward to the ferry trip but the ‘days have been too short’ and we will endeavour to rectify that as soon as we resume in the new year.

We would appreciate those of you who haven’t updated your dues yet to bring along your $10 per head to help keep us in the ‘black’.

As usual guests of members are very welcome and to join us for a ‘Christmassy’ supper at the end of the meeting.

Geoff Searl
President, Avalon Beach Historical Society

Monster Raffle Supports Local Boardrider Clubs

In 2015/16, Surfing Australia is again running the Monster Raffle in conjunction with the Original Source Australian Boardriders Battle.

Last year, over $27,000 was raised with all proceeds benefiting more than 108 of Australia's boardriders clubs. This year, we want to go bigger so we can give back to the clubs who help make Australian surfing what it is today.

So... grab your ticket today for $5 and not only are you giving back to Australian Boardriders clubs, but you'll also be in the running to WIN a brand new Toyota RAV4 Cruiser valued at $55,000 plus thousands of dollars' worth of other cool gear from Milwaukee, Oakley, Original Source, FCS, Nikon and Boost Mobile!

Buy Tickets at: www.monsterraffle.com.au

Pittwater Ocean Swim Series 2015 -2016

The Bilgola ocean swim on Sydney's Northern Beaches will kick off the Pittwater Ocean Swim Series with a 1.5km swim at the picturesque location on Sunday 13 December.

According to Rob Berry, one of the Pittwater Series organisers, there will be ocean swims at Bilgola 13 December, Newport 3 January, Avalon 17 January, Mona Vale 24 January and the Big Swim (Palm Beach to Whale Beach) on 31 January.

"Not only will competitors in the Pittwater Ocean Series be competing in one of the most scenic beach areas you will find anywhere, they will go in the draw for a fabulous prize if they complete three of the five swims in the series.

"It doesn't matter what time you record you will still go in the draw for the prize. So, anyone who does the required number of swims can win," he added.

The major prize offered for the Pittwater Ocean Swim Series includes a trip for two to Byron Bay to compete in the Byron Bay Ocean Swim Classic, staying at the BayRoyal Luxury Apartments for three nights. Return air fares are included sponsored by Travel View Avalon.

Pittwater Series swims:
o Dec 13 - Bilgola
o Jan 3 - Newport
o Jan 17 - Avalon
o Jan 24 - Mona Vale
o Jan 31 - Palm-Whale Beach
Online entries at:  www.oceanswims.com.au
Mona Vale Chamber of Commerce Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Fundraising Dinner

The Mona Vale Chamber of Commerce is pleased to invite the Northern Beaches Community to enjoy a delightful dinner and fabulous guest speakers as we raise funds to support Mona Vale Hospital.  
The guest speakers are Dr Glenn Singleman and his wife Heather Swan.  Together they have some truly unbelievable feats in the world of base-jumping and wingsuit flying, but are also highly sought after motivational speakers who will inspire us to overcome whatever fears are holding us back from achieving our goals.

Date: Friday 19 February 2016
Time: 6:30pm
Venue: Mona Vale Golf Club
Tickets: $110 each or $1000 for table of 10.
All proceeds will go to the Mona Vale Hospital Auxillary to fund equipment purchases for the Mona Vale Rehabilitation Centre.
Tickets: www.monavalechamber.org/events

 Have your say on new Central Coast plan

25.11.2015: Ministerial Media Release - The Hon. Rob Stokes MP, Minister for Planning

Planning Minister Rob Stokes and Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast Scot MacDonald today released a new draft plan for the region, aimed at growing the local economy, enhancing the community lifestyle and accelerating housing supply.

Mr Stokes said the draft Central Coast Regional Plan will now go on public exhibition for the community to have their say.

“The Central Coast is a beautiful place for people to call home, and this draft plan focuses on revitalising existing areas, providing new homes, new jobs and protecting the local environment,” Mr Stokes said. 

“I encourage the community to take part in this consultation process to help shape the future of the Central Coast.”

Mr MacDonald said the plan laid out the NSW Government’s vision for the region over the next 20 years, and he encouraged the public to get involved. 

“This plan aims to capitalise on the Central Coast’s attractive coastal lifestyle; its proximity to Sydney and the Hunter; and build an even better future for the community,” Mr MacDonald said.

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch welcomed the plan.

“The NSW Government is delivering for the people of the Central Coast with this exciting vision to make our wonderful community and lifestyle even better,” Mr Crouch said. 

The release of the draft plan follows extensive consultation with the community, local councils and other stakeholders. Feedback from this consultation has been used in the draft plan.

The community can make submissions until 28 February and can also provide feedback through an online survey and interactive map. The draft Plan, survey and interactive map can be viewed atwww.planning.nsw.gov.au/centralcoast.

Four goals for the Central Coast

Enhance community lifestyles and accelerate housing supply

A range of new housing options will be made available in existing areas with easy access to public transport, including in and around Gosford city centre, the Gosford to Erina and Tuggerah to Warnervale corridors and local centres across the region.

New land release opportunities will be made available in the Warnervale-Wadalba area and elsewhere in North Wyong. 

Infrastructure in these areas will be delivered as new communities are being created.

Existing centres will be revitalised and a new vibrant centre created at Warnervale, creating more jobs for locals and providing residents access to shops and services.

Grow and diversify the regional economy

The areas with the largest number of jobs on the Central Coast are the Somersby to Erina and Tuggerah to Warnervale Regional Economic Corridors.

The draft plan proposes focusing future infrastructure investment in these areas, to allow them to compete with economic corridors in other regions.

Existing industries including healthcare, education, food production and tourism will be expanded to provide more jobs while there will also be a focus on emerging sectors including renewable energy generation.

The $368 million Gosford Hospital upgrade and a planned $200 million upgrade to Wyong Hospital will also provide more employment opportunities.

Sustain productive land

The NSW Government will work with industry groups, other levels of government, business and the community to grow and sustain the economic productivity of the region’s agricultural and aquaculture sectors.

Protect and manage the natural and cultural environment

Areas with high environmental value will be protected to avoid and minimise impacts of developments on these areas.

The draft plan also proposes protecting water catchments to help sustain high-quality water supplies across the region.

The region’s resilience to natural hazards including flooding will also be increased.

 Fast tracking housing supply and affordability

27.11.2015: Ministerial Media Release - The Hon. Rob Stokes MP, Minister for Planning

The NSW Government will explore new actions to improve housing supply, affordability and diversity, Planning Minister Rob Stokes announced today.

Mr Stokes released a discussion paper on fast-tracking delivery of housing options such as terraces, often referred to as medium density or ‘the missing middle’, under the state’s complying development assessment process.

“What has been absent for a long time in NSW is a consistent approach to housing like terraces and dual occupancies,” Mr Stokes said. 

“Sydney will need an extra 664,000 homes over the next 20 years. To plan for this growth we must provide quality, sustainable and affordable housing stock for those who need it, where they need it. 

“Terraces and villas are more energy efficient than detached houses and medium density housing also offers more variety and flexibility for Sydney’s changing demographics.” 

A third of homeowners surveyed by the Department of Planning & Environment last year said they would consider downsizing to terraces in the future – preferences which are being driven by changing lifestyles and demographics. 

The complying development assessment process allows approval of developments that meets set rules without a full development application.

Approval for complying development applications takes on average 18 days, compared with 70 for a full DA. In 2013-14 complying development allowed 29 per cent of all development approvals to be fast-tracked and a total of $4.4 billion worth of development to be delivered. 

Proposals would still be required to comply the State Policy for Exempt and Complying Development and existing local council zonings, meeting strict development standards, design requirements and amenity guidelines.

To have your say please visit www.planning.nsw.gov.au/proposals

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary 2015

December
December 5 Pittwater Place, Mona Vale, 9am to 3pm - craft, sewing, knitting, bric-a-brac
December 12 Sausage sizzle, Bunnings, Narrabeen 8am to 4pm     

 Avalon Craft Cottage Returns to Avalon

BACK TO AVALON for the group  for three days only, Thursday 3rd, Friday 4th & Saturday 5th December, at the Avalon Recreation Centre, in Old Barrenjoey Road.

This is our final show for 2015 and as always it will be a good one with lots of space for the members to spread out and really display their beautiful craft work.

Do remember to check our FACEBOOK page for up-to-date information and please LIKE & SHARE the Avalon Craft Cottage page to spread the word amongst your friends.

Warm regards to all

Maureen Darcy-Smith

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 22/11/2015 

click on Logo: 

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Nominate an outstanding woman!

Nominations are now open for the 2016 NSW Women of the Year Awards which celebrate remarkable and inspiring women and acknowledge the contributions they make in NSW.

Minister for Women Pru Goward said the awards are a fantastic reminder that there are women all over NSW who are striving to be their very best and achieve brilliant goals.

“Every day women of all ages across NSW make immense and valuable contributions to their community, and these annual awards are our opportunity to publically acknowledge and celebrate these inspirational women,” Ms Goward said.

The 2016 Awards will also include a new category of NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year.

Winners of the 2016 Awards will attend a ceremony with the NSW Premier Mike Baird on 9 March 2016 at NSW Parliament House.
Award categories are:

Premier’s Award for Woman of the Year
This award is specifically for:
a woman who has demonstrated excellence in a career, field or passion
a significant achiever in a traditionally male-dominated area.

A. H. Beard’s Community Hero Award
This award is specifically for:
community heroes and/or volunteers
a woman making an outstanding contribution to her local community.
 
Harvey Norman’s Young Woman of the Year Award
This award is specifically for:
a positive and inspiring role model to other young women
someone with drive, determination and motivation in her chosen field
a young woman who has made significant achievements and/or contributions to the community.

REX Airlines’ Regional Woman of the Year Award
This award is specifically for a woman from a regional area who is:
a significant achiever in an area important to rural or regional communities
a woman making an outstanding contribution to resolving issues faced by a rural or regional community
a significant achiever in a traditionally male-dominated field within the rural community.

NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year Award
This award is specifically for an Aboriginal woman who is:
an outstanding leader, who contributes to her own community
respected in the wider for community for success and leadership in her chosen field.

Nominations are open until 13 January 2016. To nominate an outstanding woman in NSW or to find out more visit the Women NSW  website

Southern Cross Wildlife Care 

       Critter of the Month - November 2015:  Baby Birds

Well, it’s Spring-time and all our baby birds are hatching, growing and learning to fly!  It’s a trying time for parent birds and a scary time for the ‘learner’ flyers.   

Parent birds have resorted to swooping passers-by to protect their babies.  Magpies, currawongs and plovers are particularly partial to the ‘swooping technique’ so if you can avoid their nesting area for a few weeks, all the better for you and them.

If you can’t avoid the area, wear a few protective items as you walk/cycle through the nesting zone.  Pop on some sunglasses, wear a hat, carry an open umbrella (like a shield) or wear a bicycle helmet with cable ties attached as ‘spikes’.   Usually the birds only use the technique as a warning and tend not to make contact but it’s best to have your head and eyes protected, just in case.

When birds are freshly-hatched, they are pink and featherless and very helpless.  They have to be kept warm or they will die.  They are referred to as ‘hatchlings’.  As they grow, they get downy feathers and are referred to as ‘nestlings’.  This means that they are still completely dependent on the parent birds for warmth and food and are nest-bound.  As they grow more, their flight feathers come in and they start perching on the edge of the nest.  As they begin learning to fly, they are referred to as ‘fledglings’.  

Two nestling rainbow lorikeets with their mum.

Learning to fly involves falling to the ground.  In the same way that human babies wobble and fall when learning to walk, baby birds wobble and fall when learning to fly.  When they fall to the ground they are often intercepted by well-meaning people who assume the baby bird is lost and they scoop it up and take it to a veterinarian.  The parent birds will then fret, the baby will fret and the situation can end badly for both.  

If you do happen to find a baby bird on the ground, take a moment to sit back and observe it.  Is it pink and featherless?  If so, these hatchlings need to be warmed up and put back in the nest (if they are not injured).  Does it have downy feathers?  It may be a nestling that has been jostled out by its siblings.  These can be put back in the nest.  Does it have its flight feathers and is it able to perch?  If so, it’s probably a fledgling that is learning to fly.  Keep an eye out for the parent birds.  They are usually close at hand, keeping a watchful eye on the baby.  Wait and watch to see if they come down and feed the baby.  If the parents are around, leave the chick – unless they are in immediate danger (on the road, in the park with dogs running around etc). 

If the bird is injured or if the parent birds don’t come after a few hours, you could consider calling a wildlife rescue organisation for advice or you could gently pick it up, pop it in a cardboard box with holes and take it to your local veterinarian.  

If the bird is not injured and you think it would be better up off the ground, you could consider making an artificial nest for it:

Take an empty ice-cream container, make some holes in the bottom (in case of rain) and fill it with some soft nesting materials.  Attach the nest securely to the tree where the parent birds are perching.  We use cable ties so that the tree isn’t harmed either.  

Artificial nest made from an ice-cream container.

Baby birds brought to Southern Cross Wildlife Care with injuries.

So, if you find a baby bird on the ground, try to figure out if it’s a hatchling, a nestling or a fledgling.  If it’s in a learning phase, wait and observe before interfering.  If the parents come down, leave the baby unless it is in immediate danger.  

Enjoy the season of baby birds!!!

By Lynleigh Greig
Southern Cross Wildlife Care

 Creative Creatures Film Festival 2016

Theme 2016

New image or reference to be included in your 3 minute edit is to relate to: “recycling” (plus one only of the previous year items of rabbit, wave or apple)

NOTE: All films must be created specifically for this festival rather than appropriating existing material 

Click here to Register online 

To enter please fill in the registration form and pay the registration fee of $30.00

Your registration code will be sent to you on receipt of payment.

Your entry must be delivered to the Avalon Beach Bowling Club on or by January 23, 2016. (look for the recycling bin!) 

The final will be held Sunday February 21 at Avalon Beach Bowling Club. There will be a massive even bigger tent if rain is heaven sent and films are shown on a 20 metre square LED screen in rain, hale or shine! 

Gates open 1pm - Films start 5pm “Willbe” trophy Presentation 7pm

Submit your entry as a .Mov file on usb or cd and deliver to:

Katy Young c/o Avalon Beach Bowling Club by January 23 2016

What you could win!

Entrants 16+ Years

First prize – $1,000.00, Second prize – $750.00, Third prize – $500.00

Entrants 5 – 15 Years

First prize – $500.00, Second prize – $350.00, Third prize – $250.00

Once again our celebrity judges will be stellar and like the first year, of the highest calibre.

More information at: www.creativecreaturesfilmfestival.2016

 

Click on logo above to visit their website.

 Seniors Toy Repair Group needs your help

Volunteers are sought to help out on Wednesday mornings (7.30am to midday) at the group's workshed in Ingleside. Volunteers need their own transport and be willing to sort and clean toys that are picked up at different collection points on the Northern Beaches. 

Prospective volunteers can email Mary Kitchen to arrange a visit to the workshed. To arrange a donation pickup please call Terry Cook on 0410 597 327 or email himFind out more about this great community group HERE


HeARTfelt Christmas

Pittwater Artists Trail

Saturday 5th December & Sunday 6th December 2015: from 10am to 5pm both days

Here comes Summer, Christmas and the Pittwater Artists Trail’s last open studios event of the year - and a perfect opportunity to find a unique gift for someone special while having an inspiring day exploring our beautiful coastal environment and viewing amazing art.

This season’s much anticipated Artists Trail will be on Saturday December 5th and Sunday the 6th from 10am to 5pm.

An exciting new development on this Trail is the ARTBUS, a dedicated free bus service for the Trail - two buses departing from Avalon Surf Club and the Palm Beach Ferry Terminal in half hour alternating circuits will visit selected studios dropping off and picking up visitors from 10.30 until after 4pm. No driving or finding a park, just hop on and off at the studios you choose on the circuit. The buses are a much welcomed trial incentive from the Enliven team at Pittwater Council.

The Pittwater Artists Trail this December will be full of arty inspirations and chances to meet and engage with the makers of beautiful art.

The Trail invites you to consider giving a gift that is not mass produced in a factory but something that is an expression of an idea or feeling and made by the hands of an artist.

Handmade, designed by artists and makers - that’s a real gift.

See you on the Trail.

 NBI Respite, Recreation, Support Host Program 2016

November 27,2015

Volunteer in 2016!: Is one of your New Years Resolutions to give back to your community in 2016?

Our Host program links children with a disability with a volunteer ‘host’ family for fun and friendship. Host volunteers come from all walks of life and can be singles, couples or families.

As a host volunteer you will have the opportunity to care for a child with a mild disability on a regular basis, usually 1-2 days per month. This can happen in your own home or on an activity in the community.

The host program gives the host child a fun and interactive social experience with another family and also provides their family with a break from their caring responsibilities and the rewards can be amazing!

As a host you will be required to set aside at least one day per month to care for your host child. Prior to matching volunteers with a host child NBI will provide training and will conduct the necessary checks to ensure the safety of the host child.

NBI are looking for more Host families in 2016 and would like to hear from local families who can offer a fun and safe environment.

For more information please contact Louise at NBI on 02 9970 0500 or email louise@nbi.org.au

 The 2015 Enliven Christmas Window Display Competition 

In the lead up to Christmas, Pittwater Council invites all local businesses with street frontages in Mona Vale, Newport and Avalon village centres, to take part in the ‘2015 Enliven Christmas Window Display Competition’.

Celebrate your business and Christmas by throwing your creative energy into your shop windows! Lights, decorations, stickers, anything sustainable to decorate your windows and help create a special Christmas experience for locals and visitors.

Participants will also be in the running for some great prizes.

Competition Prizes

First Prizes - Local dining vouchers (valued at $250) in each relevant village centre

Highly Commended Prizes- Local dining vouchers (valued at $200) in each relevant village centre.

Benefits for participating businesses;

• Added promotion through Council’s media channels, Enliven App, Pittwater Business Limited websites, and local Chambers of Commerce outlets.

• One prize winner and one highly commended prize winner will be awarded in each of the three centres.

• Judging panel arranged by Enliven Pittwater.

Online Registration

To register complete the online entry form by 14 December 2015. 

See terms & conditions.

Registrations close: Monday 14 December 2015

 Judging:  From 15 -17 December 2015

Announcement of winners: Monday 21 December 2015

Terms and Conditions for Pittwater Council – ‘2015 Enliven Christmas Window Display Competition’:

The Promoter is Pittwater Council, PO Box 882, Mona Vale NSW 1660.

Employees, Contractors and Councillors of The Promoter are not eligible to enter.

Only one entry per business is permitted. Entrants must register their information on the Pittwater Council website between 23 November and 14 December 2015.

Winners from each village centre will be notified by phone / email and published on Pittwater Council’s website.

The Enliven Christmas 2015 window display competition is supported by Mona Vale Chamber of Commerce, Avalon-Palm Beach Business Chamber and Pittwater Business Ltd (PBL).

Rowland Reserve Dog Exercise area is closed on Monday November 30th for Maintenance. 

 

Eramboo seeks Artist in Residence for 2016

Applications are open for Pittwater artists to apply for a three month residency at the Eramboo Artist Environment from April to June 2016.

The residency is being run by the Eramboo Artist Environment in collaboration with Pittwater Council’s Enliven Pittwater – a strategy designed to create more vibrancy in our town and village centres.

Pittwater Mayor Jacqui Townsend said Enliven Pittwater seeks to support artists in a variety of ways through workshops, talks, demonstrations, exhibitions and educational opportunities such as this Artist in Residence program.

Mayor Townsend said the residency program is open to artists working in all types of art forms including, but not limited to; visual, photography, film, theatre, performance, experimental, multi-media, sculpture, music and the literary arts.

“The intention is to provide local artists with the opportunity to develop their practice,” said Mayor Townsend.

Eramboo’s artistic director Susan Milne said the residency will offer the successful artist the opportunity to develop his or her art practice in the rich natural and cultural environment of Eramboo in Terrey Hills. The artist in residence will have free use of one of Eramboo’s artist studios for three months. 

The unique space and connecting with other professional artists, will enable the person to develop their artistic practice with full support from existing networks at Eramboo,” she said.

“The residency is a vehicle for creative people looking to accelerate and further develop their careers,” Ms Milne added.

The resident artist will have the opportunity to show their work in one of Pittwater’s centres. Mayor Townsend said she was ‘thrilled to again be supporting a local artist and their creativity, as well as have their completed work add to the vibrancy of our town and village centres as in previous years.’

Applications are now open and will close Friday 11 December 2015. The successful applicant will be announced in December 2015.

Artist in Residence application forms and guidelines are available from info@eramboo.com

To download the application form and guidelines please visitwww.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/artistinresidence

 

Festive fun at Mona Vale Library

Mona Vale Library is decking the halls for festive fun this season with a Christmas Pantomime, Mrs Claus’ Christmas and free movie screening of ‘Elf’ (G certified).

Children of all ages are invited to Mona Vale Memorial Hall on Saturday 12 December from 3.15pm to enjoy Mrs Claus’ Christmas.

This fun-filled pantomime is set on Christmas Eve, Santa Claus has been kidnapped by Barry Von Baddie, who has always been on the naughty list – and it prompts Mrs Claus to spring into action!

Mona Vale Library will also hold a free screening of Elf (G certified) on Thursday 17 December from 6.15pm.

Elf, tells a comical story about Buddy (Will Ferrell) who was accidentally transported to the North Pole as a toddler and raised to adulthood among Santa's elves. Unable to shake the feeling that he doesn't fit in, the adult Buddy travels to New York, in full elf uniform, in search of his real father.

Festive refreshments will be available and Christmas themed dress-ups are encouraged!

Bookings are essential for both events; the cost for the Pantomime, being held at Mona Vale Memorial Hall, on Saturday 12 December from 3.15pm is $5. 

The screening of ‘Elf’, at Mona Vale Library is on Thursday 17 December from 6.15pm is free, however bookings are essential and can be made by calling: 9970 1600

Full details on these events and more are available on the Mona Vale Library website. 

 Help to Build Barrenjoey High School's Future

BHS are now in full swing with their latest fundraising project which is the building of The Barrenjoey Community Performance Space! 

Designed by renowned local architect Richard Cole - this acoustically designed purpose built space will seat an audience of 200, and will play host to many Community and School performing arts programs such as dance, drama, musical concerts, film nights, lectures and so much more! 

BHS need your support Community! 

If you think you can help, please call Barrenjoey High School 02 99188811 or visit their website www.barrenjoeyhighschool.com.au 

Or leave a message here and we'll get in touch!

More information to follow. This is what we've all been waiting for!

Top; external front of the Barrenjoey Community Performance Space - end of phase 3 – completion

 Children's Books For Bear Cottage

A local Manly writer, Terri Cracknell, has written and Illustrated four fabulous children's books that would make great gifts for Christmas!

Books retail for $12 and all profits from sales of the books go to Bear Cottage!

The books can be bought directly by emailingterrazzo@iprimus.com.au and are also available from bookshops and the Manly Art Gallery & Museum.

 2015 to 2016 double demerit periods

The double demerit points period applies from midnight of the start date to midnight on the finish date.

Midnight Wednesday 23 December to midnight Sunday 3 January (or 24 December 2015 to 3 January 2016 inclusive)

 $20 million to open Sydney's Platypus site to the public

Media release: 23 November 2015: The Hon. Jamie Briggs MP, Minister for Cities and the Built Environment

The Australian Government is making Sydney an even more vibrant and liveable city by providing $20 million to redevelop the Platypus site in Neutral Bay to a public park.

Minister for Cities and the Built Environment Jamie Briggs said this new investment will allow the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust to provide public access to the former naval base for the first time since the late 19th century.

"The Harbour Trust has an outstanding track record of turning neglected defence lands on Sydney Harbour into award-winning, financially-sustainable public parklands open to all," Mr Briggs said.

"Sites such as Cockatoo Island, North Head Sanctuary in Manly and Headland Park in Mosman are now a part of everyday life for Sydneysiders as well as being popular tourist destinations.

"Today's announcement ensures Platypus will join their ranks, meaning more local residents and tourists can enjoy Sydney Harbour's pristine environment and world class facilities.

"The Australian Government is absolutely focused on making our cities cleaner and more accessible to ensure they continue to grow into economic assets that attract and retain the best human talent from across the globe."

Liberal Candidate for North Sydney, Trent Zimmerman welcomed the announcement which will provide public access to another priceless part of Sydney Harbour's foreshore.

"Residents and visitors will be able to enjoy a site that has such incredible history and views over the Harbour," Mr Zimmerman said.

"I am pleased that the vision for this site, which so many of us in the community have worked towards, is about to become a reality."

Harbour Trust Executive Director Geoff Bailey said once the remediation work is finished, Platypus will be managed under the Trust's successful self-funding business model.

"Everything the Trust earns is reinvested into maintaining and conserving its parklands, ensuring they are kept open to the public without needing any ongoing taxpayer subsidy," Mr Bailey said.

"Our vision for the Platypus site has always been to transform it into public open space and adapt the buildings and facilities for cultural, recreational, community and commercial uses.

"We are proposing to construct pedestrian links to Kesterton Park, build a promenade on the upper level of the RANTME building, upgrade the historic 1887 Retort Building and complete the works to the southern wharf which will provide access for the boat-going public.

"Extensive community consultation has been a hallmark of this project from the very beginning. As a result, our work at the Platypus site has benefited from the close involvement and strong support of the local community.

"As we embark on the next stage of this project in the near future, we will ensure that our final plans for opening up the Platypus site to the public will continue to have strong community support," Mr Bailey said.

Located on the foreshore of Neutral Bay and off-limits to the public for over 140 years, Platypus has previously operated as a gasworks (1876-late 1930s), torpedo maintenance factory (1942-1967) and Royal Australian Navy submarine base (1967-1999).

HMAS Platypus closed as a submarine base in 1999 and the site was transferred from the Department of Defence to the Harbour Trust in 2005. Extensive decontamination works have been undertaken at the site since 2010 and have almost been completed.

_______________________

HARBOUR TRUST CHAIR KEVIN MCCANN, AM, WELCOMES $20 MILLION OF NEW FUNDING TO OPEN SYDNEY’S PLATYPUS SITE

Monday, 23 November 2015 

Mr Kevin McCann, AM, Chair of the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust, today welcomed the announcement by the Minister for Cities and the Built Environment, The Hon. Jamie Briggs, MP, that the Australian Government is providing $20 million to redevelop the Platypus site in Neutral Bay into a public park.

“This announcement by the government will enable our organisation to work towards opening this site for the people of Sydney and Australia.

“The Government had made a long-standing commitment to the Harbour Trust that it would fund the works needed to provide public access to the Platypus site. I am delighted that this commitment has now been honoured by the Turnbull Government

“Under a Memorandum of Understanding with the Department of Defence in 2009, the Government has already provided $46 million for the Harbour Trust to undertake the decontamination of this site which was a legacy of its industrial use, predominantly as a gasworks. This phase of the project has now been completed within budget.

“However, the site currently remains in a derelict state. This new funding will allow us to undertake additional remediation so that we can provide public access to an important area of Sydney Harbour’s foreshore which also has significant military heritage. Our desire is that a place which has been off-limits to the public for over 140 years will ultimately become a much-loved new urban parkland.

“Our job now is to make this site safe and usable for the public. Facilitating public access will be our priority. Although we have not yet finalised our specific plans for this new phase of works, their focus will be on maximising public access in a way that meets the community’s needs.

“The works are likely to include such proposed initiatives as constructing pedestrian links to Kesterton Park, building a promenade on the upper level of the RANTME building, upgrading the historic 1887 Retort Building (the site’s most important heritage building) and completing the works to the southern wharf which will provide access for the recreational boat-going public.

“The works at Platypus will be completed in close consultation with the community. The project has involved extensive community consultation from the very beginning, which ensured it secured the close involvement and strong support of the local community,” Mr McCann said.

Proposed landscaping and park structures at the Platypus site, Neutral Bay

The Sydney Harbour Federation Trust recently held a public exhibition of a proposal for landscaping and park structures at the former HMAS Platypus site, Neutral Bay.

For more information regarding the outcomes of this consultation please click here

Below: Neutral Bay - 1878, Image No: hall_35260, courtesy State Library of NSW

 NSW Get Ready Award 2015

Published on 25 Nov 2015: NSW Government

The Uranquinty Community Safety Group won the inaugural 'Get Ready' Community Award for their work developing and implementing a whole-of-town emergency plan.

Find out more at: 

www.emergency.nsw.gov.au/get-ready-community-award

 $20 million to help those who help others

Federal Minister for Social Services

Community organisations across Australia are now able to apply for a share of $20 million in grants to support and encourage the work of their volunteers.

In opening the Volunteer Grants 2015 round, Minister for Social Services, the Hon Christian Porter MP, said the funding will help make the work of Australia’s six million volunteers easier, safer and more enjoyable.

“Through these grants of between $1,000 and $5,000, community organisations can purchase much-needed equipment such as computers, contribute to volunteers’ training, or use it to support fundraising efforts.

“Volunteers play a critical role in building stronger and more resilient communities—whether it is by helping out with local sporting teams and land care groups, responding to natural disasters and emergencies, or helping local charities.

“This year’s Volunteer Grants gives priority to organisations working with individuals or communities experiencing disadvantage, including communities affected by natural disasters—so we encourage organisations in these areas to apply.

“This funding demonstrates the Government’s commitment to supporting the volunteers who give their time to help others and encourage social harmony,” Mr Porter said.

Applications for Volunteer Grants close 2pm AEDT, Wednesday 9 December 2015.

For further information go to dss.gov.au/grants. Alternatively, contact the Volunteer Grants 2015 Hotline on freecall 1800 183 374 or emailvg2015@dss.gov.au(link sends e-mail). 

Sydney Harbour proves the destination with exclusive marina access for boaters

Boaters are benefitting from complimentary access to some of Sydney Harbour’s most exclusive private marina facilities as part of the expanding Sydney Harbour Destinations Plan, now in its third year.

Nineteen commercial marinas have opened doors to the boating public since the NSW Government launched the Sydney Harbour Boating Destinations Plan in 2013 to improve access for boaters through casual, short term berthing or mooring and access to key facilities.

“Our iconic harbour is the jewel in Sydney’s crown and some of Sydney’s finest marinas offer boaters free access all year around to allow them to hop off, take a break, or grab something to eat or drink,” Roads and Maritime Services Maritime Director Angus Mitchell said.

“Nineteen popular locations including Rose Bay, Gladesville and Mosman are offering this service for anyone having a day out on the water in return for small lease concessions to cover costs.

“Boaters just need to look out for bright green ‘Boating Destination Marina’ banners on display at prominent locations at participating marinas. Blue banners marked ‘Destination Berth’ show boaters where to tie boats up.

“We are continuing to work with other marinas to expand the number of destinations and identify new areas where we can improve the boating experience.

“Handy new maps are now available highlighting the location, GPS coordinates and contact details of marinas and available facilities including wifi, water and fuel, slipway and marine services, public toilets, food, recreational areas, water wash down, power and pump out area.

“This is about making a great boating experience on the harbour even better and we welcome boaters to get out and safely explore the harbour as these facilities are for everyone,” Mr Mitchell said.
An interactive map of participating marinas is available at:http://tinyurl.com/shdestinations

Boaters are welcome to visit participating marinas flying blue and green flags at:
Balmain Marina
Balmoral Boatshed
Cameron’s Marina at Balmain
Cammeray Marina
Clontarf Marina
Cruising Yacht Club of Australia at Darling Point
D’Alboras Marinas at Cabarita Point and the Spit
Double Bay Marina
Fergusons Marina at The Spit
Gladesville Bridge Marina
Kirribilli Marina
Manly Boat Shed
Middle Harbour Yacht Club
Point Piper Marina
Rose Bay Marina
Roseville Bridge Marina
Smiths Boatshed Marina
Sydney Superyacht marina

Roads and Maritime will continue to work with eligible marinas to expand the program.
For more information on the program visit 
Improving the disability employment system

People with disability, their families, carers and employers are encouraged to provide feedback on a new discussion paper aimed at developing a National Disability Employment Framework.
Minister for Social Services, the Hon Christian Porter MP, said the Framework will contribute to better job opportunities to people with disability.

“The Government wants to get more people with disability into jobs,” Mr Porter said. “People with disability have higher unemployment rates than other Australians, and these rates have remained stagnant for the past 20 years.

“We have a range of disability employment support services, but their performance in helping people with disability find long-term, sustainable jobs can be improved.

“Only one-in-three job seekers in our Disability Employment Services programme find and keep a job for 26 weeks or more.
A taskforce is reviewing the entire disability employment system and developing a new National Disability Employment Framework.
The taskforce already led one round of successful consultation this year to find out what is and isn’t working with the current system, and what other methods could work.

“This consultation, along with other research, has informed the discussion paper. The discussion paper outlines a case for changing disability employment services and describes how disability employment policy could work in the future.

“We will be holding information sessions in capital cities to present the ideas proposed in the discussion paper, and invite more detailed feedback through an online survey.”

The consultation closes on 7 December. For a copy of the discussion paper or to find out more, visit www.engage.dss.gov.au.

Information sessions
Perth, Thursday, 19 November 2015
Adelaide, Friday, 20 November 2015
Brisbane, Tuesday, 24 November 2015
Sydney, Wednesday, 25 November 2015
Hobart, Thursday, 26 November 2015
Darwin, Thursday, 26 November 2015
Canberra, Monday, 27 November 2015
Melbourne, Monday, 30 November 2015

Tax Deductible Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade Building Fund

By Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade

Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade is an entirely volunteer NSW Rural Fire Service station located on Sydney's northern beaches.
We are responsible for protecting people and property from bushfire in the Davidson, French Forest, Forestville and Killarney Heights area, which includes over 10,000 homes. We also assist in search and rescues, storm damage and other incidents whenever called upon.

Our Brigade has more than 100 volunteers who commit thousands of hours every year to the service of our community. Our volunteers are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Last year the Brigade contributed over 9,500 hours in service of the community.

Why We Need Your Help
In recent years, the Brigade has outgrown the current station, which is unable to adequately accommodate our volunteers, vehicles and equipment. As such, we are embarking on a building project, which will:
• Add two additional fire truck garages (doubling our firefighting capacity),
• Provide a dedicated education room for the public and a training facility to ensure our volunteers receive the best training to help better serve the community.

How you can help
We need your help to raise a further $150,000. The State government has committed substantial funding to the building project. However, there is a shortfall of $150,000 we need to raise to ensure our project is undertaken and ready for Fire Season 2016/17.

We hold deductible gift recipient status. Any donation you make to us is tax deductible and we will issue you a receipt which indicates this. You can give a tax deductible donation:

1. Online through Chuffed: www.chuffed.org/project/buyabrick 
2. By EFT by direct deposit to: Account Name - Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade Gift Fund Account, BSB: 032-299 Account number: 111245,
3. By Cheque made payable to the Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade, orCash, posted to PO Box 128, Belrose West NSW 2085.

Your help in raising $150,000 is greatly appreciated and will help us better serve and protect.

Thank you!
Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade.

 Polo by the Sea to Return to Palm Beach in 2016

Your next chance to see all the action and social highlights of Urban Polo in Sydney is Palm Beach on 9 January 2016! 

Tickets are on sale now to UPA Members, and to the public via Ticketek. Visit the Polo by the Sea website for more details:www.polobythesea.com.au

 BUY A 2016 DOGGIE RESCUE CALENDAR AND SAVE A FURRY LIFE

The much loved Doggie Rescue calendar is back, and this year features the adorable Maeko as the cover star. Maeko is one of 11,466 dogs that have been saved from death row through the tireless hard work and dedication of Sydney’s largest private NO KILL animal welfare organisation. These 2016 calendars represent so much more than dates on page, each and every one contributes directly to saving the lives of our best friends.

Maeko was rescued from one of the many pounds around NSW and he represents what happens when abandoned and unloved pets are given a second chance at life thanks to founder and CEO Monika Biernacki; 

“The number of dogs facing death row every day in Australia is truly shocking. These beautiful animals all deserve the opportunity to find their forever home and I am so proud that over 11,000 of them are now happily part of their new families”.

The Doggie Rescue calendar forms the main fundraiser for this well respected charity, and with all proceeds going straight back to the organisation, it means that many, many more lives will be saved. If all the calendars find their way into homes around Australia, that represents more than 1200 dogs provided with food, shelter and basic veterinary costs.

There are literally thousands of heartbreaking stories behind these animals, but it is the heartwarming result of every new adoption that provides the drive that keeps Monika and her dedicated volunteers going;

“Doggie Rescue was created to provide a viable NO KILL alternative in Sydney and to educate the public on their lifelong responsibilities when owning a dog. Dogs are not an impulse purchase and people need to become educated about where their new addition has come from. Rescue dogs are very special, most adoptees tell us that in actual fact, the rescue dog has saved them! There is nothing like the love and dedication of a rescued animal. ”

The 2016 DoggieRescue calendar costs just $15 and makes the perfect Christmas gift for friends and family. It is available online at www.DoggieRescue.com.au or can be purchased by calling 9486 3133 or by visiting the shelter at Ingleside.

www.doggierescue.com/2016calendar.htm

 Gone Fishing Gallery at Waterfront Store Church Point

Open again TODAY in the top room Waterfront Store

Open mainly weekends as an addition to the waterfront cafe. 

Keep up to date on their Facebook page

DoggieRescue.com

Pet of the Week

Alfie
AGE/SEX: 7 months / M
BREED: Kelpie x
Alfie is an absolutely gorgeous boy, loves people, very bouncy and energetic but a bit unsure at times. Alfie has never been on lead before so is slowly learning the ropes. He has a short coat and weighs 14.3kg. He comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. His adoption cost is $350. 

For further details or to meet all dogs at call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email monika@DoggieRescue.com. Visit www.DoggieRescue.com to see all our dogs. www.facebook.com/doggierescue 

Bushcare in Pittwater 
Council's Cooee Newsletter - November to December 2015:HERE

For further information or to confirm the meeting details for below groups, please contact Council's Bushcare Officer on 9970 1367

BUSHCARE SCHEDULES 
Where we work                      Which day                              What time 

Avalon     
Angophora Reserve             3rd Sunday                         8:30 - 11:30am 
Avalon Dunes                        1st Sunday                         8:30 - 11:30am 
Avalon Golf Course              2nd Wednesday                3 - 5:30pm 
Careel Creek                         4th Saturday                       8:30 - 11:30am 
Toongari Reserve                 3rd Saturday                       9 - 12noon (8 - 11am in summer) 
Bangalley Headland            2nd Sunday                         9 to 12noon 

Bayview     
Winnererremy Bay                 4th Sunday                        9 to 12noon 

Bilgola     
North Bilgola Beach              3rd Monday                        9 - 12noon 
Algona Reserve                      1st Saturday                      9 - 12noon 
Plateau Park                            1st Friday                           8:30 - 11:30am 

Church Point     
Browns Bay Reserve             1st Tuesday                      9 - 12noon 
McCarrs Creek Reserve       Contact Bushcare Officer     To be confirmed 

Clareville     
Old Wharf Reserve                 3rd Saturday                      8 - 11am 

Elanora     
Kundibah Reserve                   4th Sunday                      8:30 - 11:30am 

Mona Vale     
Mona Vale Beach Basin          1st Saturday                    8 - 11am 
Mona Vale Dunes                     2nd Saturday+3rd Thursday     8:30 - 11:30am 

Newport     
Bungan Beach                          4th Sunday                       9 - 12noon 
Crescent Reserve                    3rd Sunday                       9 - 12noon 
North Newport Beach              4th Saturday                     8:30 - 11:30am 
Porter Reserve                          2nd Saturday                    8 - 11am 

North Narrabeen     
Irrawong Reserve                     3rd Saturday                     2 - 5pm 

Palm Beach     
North Palm Beach Dunes      3rd Saturday                      9 - 12noon 

Scotland Island     
Catherine Park                          2nd Sunday                       10 - 12:30pm 
Elizabeth Park                           1st Saturday                       9 - 12noon 
Pathilda Reserve                      3rd Saturday                      9 - 12noon 

Warriewood     
Warriewood Wetlands             1st Sunday                         8:30 - 11:30am 

Whale Beach     
Norma Park                               1st Friday                            9 - 12noon 

Western Foreshores     
Coopers Point, Elvina Bay      2nd Sunday                        10 - 1pm 
Rocky Point, Elvina Bay           1st Monday                          9 - 12noon

New Season for Sailability Pittwater 

Sailability Pittwater is a volunteer organisation which provides sailing for people with a disability. Our main recreational sailing activities are at Rowland Reserve, Bayview, and we run competitive sailing for people with a disability out of RPAYC Newport.

We are currently looking for new volunteers for our Saturday morning program at Rowland Reserve and Tuesdays at RPA. Visit our website for more information at  www.sailability.org/au/pittwater or call John on 9982 5656

 

 LEGO AT THE LIBRARY

Local children will have the chance to join a club specialising in one of the most enduring playthings of childhood. Mona Vale Library has started a Lego club on the first Sunday of each month from 2pm to 4pm. Next is December 6th 2015. The club is open to children aged between seven and twelve years of age, with younger children welcome with parental supervision. If you are interested in attending a Lego at the Library session contact the library on 9970 1622 or book in person at the library, 1 Park Street, Mona Vale.

The NSW Government Gazette 

The New South Wales Government Gazette is the official channel for the circulation of Proclamations, Regulations, Government Notices, Private Legal Advertisements andther matters required to be published in the Government Gazette under the Statutes of New South Wales Government. The NSW Government Gazette contains: New South Wales Legislation, Notices (public and official announcements), and Official Government Notices from the New South Wales Government and Local Government Agencies, Cities and Shires. The NSW Government Gazette is available online on theN.S.W. Government website from 2pm each Friday.