Articles This Week
Australia Day Breakfast by the beach
All are invited to come along with family and friends to enjoy the Australia Day Breakfast at Bert Payne Reserve, Newport Beach this Australia Day, 26 January.
Pittwater Mayor Jacqueline Townsend said the Australia Day Breakfast event, made possible with the efforts of the Pittwater Australia Day Celebrations Organising Committee, is a great opportunity to celebrate and respect the history of Australia.
“This great event brings the Pittwater community together to recognise our Australia Day heroes, congratulate new citizens and hear from our Australia Day Ambassador, Acting Commissioner Catherine Burn APM,” said Cr Townsend.
Acting Commissioner Burn welcomed the opportunity to come to Pittwater in the capacity of Australia Day ambassador this year.
"Being an Australia Day Ambassador is a great privilege but it's also a great source of pride and enjoyment for me.
“When the role requires me to celebrate with a Northern Beaches BBQ, a wonderful community, an inspiring group of new Australian citizens and a great bunch of volunteers, I am reminded of why I signed up,” said Acting Commissioner Burn.
Mayor Jacqueline Townsend praised the hard working volunteers from our local service clubs who provide a hardy breakfast for the thousands of attendees every year.
Breakfast options of bacon and egg rolls, bacon rolls, sausage rolls and pancakes will be on offer for $4. There’ll be iconic lamingtons, coffee, ice cream and fairy floss for sale too.
The entertainment line-up includes the Sun Up bush band, soloist Russell Pearce, a jumping castle, amusement rides and face painting for the kids.
It wouldn’t be Australia Day in Pittwater without some beach activities too. Newport Beach Surf Life Saving Club will be hosting the thong-throwing event and there’s beach volleyball for the young and young at heart.
Breakfast will be served from 7.30am and festivities will run until 11.30am.
Formalities commence at 8am with the Ambassador’s address, followed by the announcement of the Australia Day Award winners, Citizenship Ceremony and flag raising.
Pittwater Council reminds local residents that the sand area of all beaches will be Alcohol Prohibited Areas as per Section 632A of the Local Government Act 1993. This will be in force from 6am on Tuesday 26 January 2016 until 6am on Wednesday 27 January 2016.
www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/council/civic_events/australia_day
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Funding For School Infrastructure Projects
January 25, 2016
Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes today announced $120,000 to support key infrastructure projects at Barrenjoey and Pittwater High School.
Both schools will receive $60,000 under the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership Program to assist with upcoming building works and renovations.
Barrenjoey High School’s contribution will go towards the construction of stage one of a planned Community Performance Space, while Pittwater High School’s contribution will go towards the expansion and upgrade of its existing community hall.
“This is a great boost for two of our community’s largest schools,” Rob Stokes said today.
“Both projects will help provide better facilities and opportunities for local students and introduce exciting new community infrastructure.
“Our local schools are invaluable community assets and their facilities are often shared by countless local clubs and associations.
“Barrenjoey High’s innovative proposal aims to strengthen its reputation as a leader in creative and performing arts and help showcase its students’ exceptional talents.
“A major fundraising drive is now underway for this project and I’m delighted the NSW Government has been able to assist.
“Pittwater High already offers one of our community’s largest halls - but increasing demand means expansion is necessary.
“This project will introduce vital improvements to the existing hall and enable it to cater for larger audiences – especially during school presentation evenings.
“Congratulations to the P&C Associations at both schools for pursuing such important projects,” Rob Stokes said.
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Better Deal For Local Surf Clubs
January 25, 2016
Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes today welcomed a landmark agreement between the NSW Government and Surf Life Saving NSW to help cut red tape for local surf clubs.
Surf Life Saving NSW will no longer be required to go through a lengthy process to renew long-term leases, saving councils and surf clubs time and money that can be better spent on making beaches safer.
The new directive removes the need for surf clubs and councils to negotiate new lease arrangements and provides a 20 year minimum lease for clubs situated on Crown land.
“This is a much better arrangement for local surf clubs,” Rob Stokes said today.
“Surf clubs play an invaluable role in our community and it’s vital their efforts are supported.
“Taking the hassle out of lease renewals will allow clubs to focus less on paperwork and administration and more on safety at our local beaches.
“This new arrangement covers all surf clubs situated on Crown land and allows for greater consistency, security and peace of mind.
“Our community is home to Sydney’s greatest beaches and this simply wouldn’t be possible without the efforts of our local surf clubs.
“This is an important new arrangement which will provide benefits right throughout our community,” Rob Stokes said.
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New Medical Graduates Begin At Mona Vale Hospital
January 25, 2016
Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes today announced 10 new medical graduates will begin their clinical internships at Mona Vale Hospital this week.
The new interns are part of a record graduating class of 983 medical students that will complete extensive training in NSW’S public hospital system throughout 2016.
Mona Vale Hospital has secured dozens of medical graduates over recent years and is continuing its longstanding role in the education of NSW’s high quality medical workforce.
“The arrival of new medical graduates is an exciting boost for Mona Vale Hospital,” Rob Stokes said today.
“There are extensive infrastructure improvements underway at Mona Vale Hospital but new additions to our medical staff are just as important.
“With such highly skilled medical staff at Mona Vale Hospital – these new graduates are in excellent hands.
“The interns will develop their skills in medicine, emergency and surgery and put into practice their many years of university preparation.
“It’s fantastic the NSW Government is continuing to invest in record numbers of medical graduates and is responding to the ever-increasing demand for medical services.
“I’m looking forward to the additional strength these new graduates will provide to Mona Vale Hospital and the benefits that will flow through to our community,” Rob Stokes said.
IT'S ON AGAIN!!!
Avalon Bulldogs v Newport Breakers Hybrid Game on Sat 5th March 2016 at RAT PARK
This will be the MAIN EVENT with the Rats also playing Manly
NEWPORT BREAKERS...
9 Boxes for Newport Breakers and 9 for Avalon Bulldogs have been allocated.
Each box takes 10 people - so we need 90 Breakers to fill ours.
The Drinks and Food will be FREE!!! Yay!!
But each of the 90 must pay $100 each.
As well as Breakers, we have two or three 1st Grade Rats and potentially Mark Gerrard.
At this stage if you wish to head-up a Box of 10 people then let us know at: brokenbreakers@gmail.com
Learn how to keep your very own bees at home
21 January 2016
In response to public concern about the diminishing population of native bees, Pittwater Council will host two native bee workshops on Sunday February 7 with native bee expert Tim Heard from the CSIRO.
Mayor Jacqui Townsend said the native bee workshop is an important education initiative for Council as it helps to teach locals how to keep native bees at home.
“It’s a popular event with Pittwater’s environmentally minded community who are always looking for environmental solutions to a healthy and sustainable lifestyle,” Mayor Townsend said.
“Native bees are a fantastic part of our environment and are very seldom seen, yet they are essential for the health of the environment to assist in pollinating native plants.
“The workshop is very interactive with Mr Heard sharing his expert knowledge on stingless native bees,” she said.
During the session attendees will learn the benefits of keeping native bees, how to identify and keep them, what to grow in the garden to ensure a healthy hive as well as how to extract honey from the hives.
Workshops will be held at the Coastal Environment Centre at Lake Park Road, North Narrabeen at 9am-12noon or 1-4pm.
Cost is $20 and includes a copy of Tim Heard's latest publication.
Bookings are essential either in person, by phone 1300 000 232 oronline
Battle of the Bands
20 January 2016
Young musicians are being invited to join the battle of the bands to win a place at the 2016 ShoreShocked Music Festival.
This year the battle of the bands will take place in two locations with two spots up for grabs at the ShoreShocked festival.
Northern Beaches Band members are invited to perform at Mona Vale Memorial Hall on 12 February from 6pm, with Northern Sydney Bands having the opportunity to battle it out at Chatswood Youth Centre on 19 February.
All band members must be aged 12-25 years of age and live on the Northern Beaches or North Shore area, with seven bands being chosen to play at each of these locations. All styles of music are encouraged to apply.
Submissions will be judged by a panel from the ShoreShocked Organising Committee.
Bands wishing to participate are requested to submit their entry online by 31 January at www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/battle providing examples of their music and a brief biography. Entry to the competition is free.
Band members must be available to play the competition on either Friday 12 February or 19 February and be available to play at the ShoreShocked Music Festival on Saturday 9 or 16 April, 2016.
For those wishing to watch the bands they can pre-book tickets online for $5 at www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/battle or pay $10 at the door (if not sold out). Ticket includes a drink and burger.
The event has been generously supported by Jason Mannell and Gavin Leach from Mona Vale Music, who will be supplying equipment and prizes.
Jenny Walsh from Northern Beaches Youth Bands is assisting with promotions.
The Pittwater Youth & Families Team are proud supporters of headspace Brookvale who will be running the BBQ for the event.
All ages are welcome to this drug and alcohol free event. For more information call 9970 1634.
Sydney Wildlife Rescuer Training Course: February 2016
Sydney Wildlife operates in the Greater Sydney Metropolitan Area which extends from the Hawkesbury River in the north, to Picton in the south and from the foothills of the Blue Mountains to the ocean. Phone: 9413 4300.
As well as caring for sick, injured and orphaned native wildlife, Sydney Wildlife is also involved in educating the community about native wildlife and its habitat. From kindergartens to retirement villages, community education packages are tailored to meet the specific needs of a wide range of audiences.
Sydney Wildlife is an entirely voluntary, charitable organisation. There are no paid staff what-so-ever.
People over 18 may Train to become a wildlife rescuer and carer - Next course - 20-21st February 2016 at Northbridge
If you would like to become a Wildlife Rescuer, a Wildlife Carer or help out answering Sydney Wildlife's Rescue Hotline; if you are at least 18 years old and live in the Greater Sydney Metropolitan area, then you might like to join the team at Sydney Wildlife by completing a two day Rescue and Care Course.
You don't need any special qualifications to do the course, just a love of animals and a commitment to the protection of native wildlife and habitat.
The two day course covers the rescue and care of a variety of native animals including adult possums, lizards, turtles and a wide range of birds. After completing the course and gaining some experience you can choose to go on to do other courses and learn how to rescue and care for other animals such as baby possums, macropods (such as kangaroos and wallabies), raptors (such as owls, falcons and other birds of prey), snakes and bats.
The cost is $100 per person (or $130 for two people sharing materials who reside at the same address). The fee covers the cost of a range of materials; start-up equipment and a license fee of $30.00 per person.
For more information on what's Involved (in Becoming a Carer)
The World's Safest Skateboard - Boarder Kontrol board has Brake
Kids learn SAFELY and adults skate downhill with control - just a normal skateboard with attachable features, including a brake!
Had a note from BL last night about this great new idea:
Hi Al - We are all good in Hawaii and loving it. The waves have been all time - super consistent, really big and light winds.
Wanted to let you know about my good mates at Streetboardz Kickstarter campaign for their Boarder Kontrol skateboard product.
The skateboard has a brake and there is a retro fit kit so anyone could put a brake on their own skateboard - check it out.
It is a local Northern Beaches innovation and product revolution to skateboards, this is for everyone.
The deal is these boards will be available in stores from July for $320 but anyone can secure a board on Kickstarter now for $155, you’ll get it at half normal price and be the first* in the world to have it - it’s such a cool concept!
Here is the link to the Kickstarter campaign:www.kickstarter.com/projects/boarder-kontrol-skateboards
* Estimated Delivery is listed as May 2016
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Streetboardz, BL and Pittwater Online are very keen on Safety:
Safety
• We recommend riders to always wear a helmet and protective gear.
• We recommend to not allow a board to roll faster than the rider can run.
• Always check parts for wear and tear and check for loose nuts, bolts or screws.
• Avoid riding near traffic and/or obstacles.
• Observe all local traffic laws, rules and regulations. Those for NSW may be accessed on the Transport NSW page here
• The steel brake disc can become very hot after extensive braking, do not touch the steel disc within 10 minutes of use.
• Skateboard riding is an extreme activity, we are attempting to make it safer but people who choose to ride a skateboard do so at their own risk.
Find out more in this Issue's article: The Boarder Kontrol Innovation Makes This the World’s Safest Skateboard - brakes! - retrofit kit available - Northern Beaches inventor - great for beginners too
Pet of the Week
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
Dragons of Sydney
National Parks Association of NSW: A day with the dragons!
Join NPA - NSW and North Sydney Council at beautiful Bradleys Head Reserve in Mosman for a day of bush regeneration and citizen science to help the city's iconic Eastern Water Dragons!
'Dragons of Sydney Harbour' is a new community led initiative run by National Parks Association of NSW in partnership with Taronga Zoo and Conservation Volunteers Australia which aims to help conserve our urban Eastern Water Dragons through research, bush regeneration and community outreach.
At the event you will have the opportunity to take part in a new citizen science survey to help contribute to our understanding of this special reptile followed by the chance to get your hands dirty removing weeds and litter to help improve and restore dragon habitat.
When: Thursday, January 28 or Friday, January 29, 2016
Where: Meet at Athol Hall Bradleys Head
When: 9.00am – 3.00pm
Bring: Lunch, hat, long pants and closed shoes
If you are interested in attending one of these exciting and worthwhile events, please fill out the form at the link below and we will be in touch to confirm your RSVP!
RSVP today to attend one of our free and worthwhile events at
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
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
Bushcare in Pittwater 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
Pittwater Camera Club is celebrating their 50th year in 2016
On January 11th their great brand new look website was launched where you can see some of the beautiful photographs taken by members in 2015 and find out about how to become a Member:/www.pittwatercameraclub.org
The 2016 Program is listed in our Events page. The Pittwater Camera Club:
• Our aim is for members to share their enthusiasm and love of photography via competitions, lectures, presentations and social activities
• We are a friendly, contemporary and progressive club
• Regular competitions are aimed at improving photographic skills
• Lectures are given by visiting photographers and professionals in the industry
• Encouragement is provided in the appreciation of the art of photography
• Membership is open to everyone who enjoys photography
• We conduct photographic outings on a regular basis.
• Pittwater Camera Club welcomes visitors to any of our meeting nights
The Pittwater Camera Club meets on alternate Mondays at:
PITTWATER RSL: 82 Mona Vale Road, Mona Vale NSW
Our meetings commence at 7.15 pm for a 7.30 pm start
Please drop by for the College Open Evening @ 4 - 7pm on Tuesday 2 February 2016 at our Narrabeen campus - 1525 Pittwater Rd North Narrabeen.
More details at base of this page
Or for more information visit: www.nbcc.nsw.edu.au/
Permaculture Northern Beaches Photo Comp 2016
PERMACULTURE PHOTO COMPETITION 2016
1. Photos must be related to permaculture, ideally demonstrate a permaculture principle.
2. Photos must be high resolution, suitable for print. Landscape orientation preferred.
3. It must be an original photograph, not previously published.
4. You must be the copyright owner of the work.
5. You agree to have your photo displayed on the website and other digital and printed material produced by Permaculture Northern Beaches (PNB) and/or Permaculture Sydney North (PSN).
6. Enter as many times as you like.
7. Competition closes at the end of Summer: Sunday 28 Feb 2016.
VOTING
• Vote for your favourite photos by clicking the heart icon and leaving a comment.
• The winning photo will have the most number of LIKES + COMMENTS.
• The winning photo will be announced at the March monthly meeting, and published on the Permaculture NB's site and in the PNB mail list.
PRIZES
• A permaculture design consultation for your garden.
• Free admission to all PNB workshops in 2016.
• A place at our next Introduction to Permaculture course at Kimbriki EcoHouse & Garden on April 2-3, 2016.
• Additionally, the winning photo will be showcased on this homepage and the top photos will be submitted for consideration in the the 2017 Permaculture Principles calendar, (subject to their selection and printing requirements.)
More information and enter at:www.permaculturenorthernbeaches.org.au/#photo-comp
Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 17/1/2016
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
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.
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.
Thank you!
Davidson Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade.
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 February 7th, 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,
Click on logo above to visit their website.
The purpose of www.westpittwater.com.au - is best defined by the vision of the West Pittwater Community Association.
To be a supportive community, encouraging and promoting civic pride, interest in community affairs and goodwill amongst residents.
To protect local fauna and flora and generally preserve West Pittwater and its environs.
To secure essential facilities including public wharves and reserves and to protect private and public property.
To speak with one voice and represent the interests of the Western Foreshore community when in discussion with Pittwater Council and other relevant government bodies.
The WPCA website provides a forum for the better realisation of these objectives. Visit: www.westpittwater.com.au
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
Articles This Week
IT'S ON AGAIN!!!
Avalon Bulldogs v Newport Breakers Hybrid Game on Sat 5th March 2016 at RAT PARK
This will be the MAIN EVENT with the Rats also playing Manly
NEWPORT BREAKERS...
9 Boxes for Newport Breakers and 9 for Avalon Bulldogs have been allocated.
Each box takes 10 people - so we need 90 Breakers to fill ours.
The Drinks and Food will be FREE!!! Yay!!
But each of the 90 must pay $100 each.
As well as Breakers, we have two or three 1st Grade Rats and potentially Mark Gerrard.
At this stage if you wish to head-up a Box of 10 people then let us know at: brokenbreakers@gmail.com
Australia Day Breakfast by the beach
13 January, 2016
All are invited to come along with family and friends to enjoy the Australia Day Breakfast at Bert Payne Reserve, Newport Beach this Australia Day, 26 January.
Pittwater Mayor Jacqueline Townsend said the Australia Day Breakfast event, made possible with the efforts of the Pittwater Australia Day Celebrations Organising Committee, is a great opportunity to celebrate and respect the history of Australia.
“This great event brings the Pittwater community together to recognise our Australia Day heroes, congratulate new citizens and hear from our Australia Day Ambassador, Acting Commissioner Catherine Burn APM,” said Cr Townsend.
Acting Commissioner Burn welcomed the opportunity to come to Pittwater in the capacity of Australia Day ambassador this year.
"Being an Australia Day Ambassador is a great privilege but it's also a great source of pride and enjoyment for me.
“When the role requires me to celebrate with a Northern Beaches BBQ, a wonderful community, an inspiring group of new Australian citizens and a great bunch of volunteers, I am reminded of why I signed up,” said Acting Commissioner Burn.
Mayor Jacqueline Townsend praised the hard working volunteers from our local service clubs who provide a hardy breakfast for the thousands of attendees every year.
Breakfast options of bacon and egg rolls, bacon rolls, sausage rolls and pancakes will be on offer for $4. There’ll be iconic lamingtons, coffee, ice cream and fairy floss for sale too.
The entertainment line-up includes the Sun Up bush band, soloist Russell Pearce, a jumping castle, amusement rides and face painting for the kids.
It wouldn’t be Australia Day in Pittwater without some beach activities too. Newport Beach Surf Life Saving Club will be hosting the thong-throwing event and there’s beach volleyball for the young and young at heart.
Breakfast will be served from 7.30am and festivities will run until 11.30am.
Formalities commence at 8am with the Ambassador’s address, followed by the announcement of the Australia Day Award winners, Citizenship Ceremony and flag raising.
Pittwater Council reminds local residents that the sand area of all beaches will be Alcohol Prohibited Areas as per Section 632A of the Local Government Act 1993. This will be in force from 6am on Tuesday 26 January 2016 until 6am on Wednesday 27 January 2016.
Pittwater Camera Club is celebrating their 50th year in 2016
On January 11th their great brand new look website was launched where you can see some of the beautiful photographs taken by members in 2015 and find out about how to become a Member:/www.pittwatercameraclub.org
The 2016 Program is listed in our Events page. The Pittwater Camera Club:
• Our aim is for members to share their enthusiasm and love of photography via competitions, lectures, presentations and social activities
• We are a friendly, contemporary and progressive club
• Regular competitions are aimed at improving photographic skills
• Lectures are given by visiting photographers and professionals in the industry
• Encouragement is provided in the appreciation of the art of photography
• Membership is open to everyone who enjoys photography
• We conduct photographic outings on a regular basis.
• Pittwater Camera Club welcomes visitors to any of our meeting nights
The Pittwater Camera Club meets on alternate Mondays at:
PITTWATER RSL: 82 Mona Vale Road, Mona Vale NSW
Our meetings commence at 7.15 pm for a 7.30 pm start
Local Government expert gives an 'expanded Pittwater' the thumbs up
12 January, 2016
Local government expert Professor Brian Dollery has endorsed the SHOROC two-council model that would see an expanded Pittwater Council as 'the most sensible and economically responsible outcome for the region possible'.
Local government expert Professor Brian Dollery has endorsed the SHOROC two-council model that would see an expanded Pittwater Council as 'the most sensible and economically responsible outcome for the region possible'.
Despite stressing that he has consistently opposed compulsory mergers, Professor Dollery said that when compared to the Independent Panel’s recommendation of a forced merger of Manly, Pittwater and Warringah, the State Government’s new proposal is the best outcome for residents in the region.
“Expanded Pittwater and Manly councils allows for the strengthening of villages and communities, retention of local character, community of interest and identity, and allows the two areas to retain their respective densities,” says Professor Dollery.
“It also safeguards the custodianship over a unique waterway and lower density development in keeping with the natural environment and heritage in the northern council, whilst the southern council would be more harbour and city focussed with a higher level of density.
“The SHOROC two-council model supports conceptual and empirical research showing that the larger proposed entity was not a better option,” he said.
Empirical research undertaken by both Professor Brian Dollery and KPMG has shown that a two-council model can provide financial, environmental, social and governance benefits for the communities that they service.
Pittwater General Manager Mark Ferguson said that the proposed expanded council for Pittwater would have an estimated resident population of 168,000 people by 2031.
”This would provide sufficient scale for the expanded council for Pittwater to be financially sustainable and deliver strong economic management enabling the strengthening of villages and communities and retention of local character and identity,” Mr Ferguson said.
“Two more equitable councils providing joint services and working collaboratively will also deliver stronger representative advocacy for the area when dealing with state and federal governments,” he added.
The NSW Government has announced that an expanded council for Pittwater servicing the suburbs of north Warringah would receive $20 million to cover the costs of merging and community infrastructure projects from the Stronger Communities Fund.
The southern council involving the merger of Manly, Mosman and southern suburbs of Warringah would likewise receive $25 million. This is a total of $45 million for the region.
For details on the NSW Government’s merger proposals includes accompanying boundary maps visit www.councilboundaryreview.nsw.gov.au
For reform updates, please visit our website, subscribe to our e-newsletter aboutPittwater and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
• Bigger is not always better: Prof Brian Dollery
• An assessment of SGS Report Local Government Structural Change: Options Analysis: Prof Brian Dollery
• KPMG Independent review of structural options for Manly Council & Pittwater Council: Part A
• KPMG Independent review of structural options for Manly Council and Pittwater Council: Compendium Part B
Merger proposal handed down
The NSW Government has made available its proposal document which outlines a merger of Pittwater with North Warringah to create an expanded Council.
Additionally the government has announced Richard Pearson as the Delegate who has been tasked with the function of examining and reporting on the merger proposal.
Richard Pearson is currently Director of Pearson Planning Solutions and is formerly the Deputy Secretary of the Department of Planning and Environment.
Pittwater Mayor Jacqueline Townsend said that an Extraordinary Meeting of Council will be held next Monday 11 January to discuss the NSW’s Government merger proposal.
Mayor Townsend said the Delegate has informed Council the community will have an opportunity to have their say through a public inquiry which is to be held as part of the proposal examination process. The community can also provide a written submission through the online portal. The date, time and location of the inquiry is yet to be set. We will notify the community once Council has been advised.
“The government’s proposed relocation of Pittwater’s boundary includes Terrey Hills, Narrabeen, Collaroy, Collaroy Plateau, Cromer, Wheeler Heights, Oxford Falls, Frenchs Forest, Duffys Forrest, Belrose, Davidson, Forestville and Killarney Heights.
The government’s proposal identifies the benefits the merger will provide to the local community including:
• a total financial benefit of $49 million over a 20 year period that can be reinvested in better services and more infrastructure
• a projected 67 per cent improvement in annual operating results
• potentially reducing the reliance on rate increases through Special Rate Variations (SRVs) to fund local infrastructure
• greater capacity to effectively manage and reduce the infrastructure backlog
• effective representation by a council with the required scale and capacity to meet the future needs of the community
• working with the NSW Government to complete the B-Line bus rapid transit project
• more integrated management of Narrabeen Lagoon and Catchment
• common parking system to deliver a reciprocal permit
• a new strategic centre at the Northern Beaches Hospital Precinct.
“For the time being it’s ‘business as usual’ for Pittwater,” Mayor Townsend added.
For details on the proposal and how to make a submission visitwww.councilboundaryreview.nsw.gov.au The submissions deadline is 28 February 2016.
For reform updates, please visit our website, subscribe to our e-newsletter aboutPittwater and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
Pet of the Week
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
Dragons of Sydney
National Parks Association of NSW: A day with the dragons!
Join NPA - NSW and North Sydney Council at beautiful Bradleys Head Reserve in Mosman for a day of bush regeneration and citizen science to help the city's iconic Eastern Water Dragons!
'Dragons of Sydney Harbour' is a new community led initiative run by National Parks Association of NSW in partnership with Taronga Zoo and Conservation Volunteers Australia which aims to help conserve our urban Eastern Water Dragons through research, bush regeneration and community outreach.
At the event you will have the opportunity to take part in a new citizen science survey to help contribute to our understanding of this special reptile followed by the chance to get your hands dirty removing weeds and litter to help improve and restore dragon habitat.
When: Thursday, January 28 or Friday, January 29, 2016
Where: Meet at Athol Hall Bradleys Head
When: 9.00am – 3.00pm
Bring: Lunch, hat, long pants and closed shoes
If you are interested in attending one of these exciting and worthwhile events, please fill out the form at the link below and we will be in touch to confirm your RSVP!
RSVP today to attend one of our free and worthwhile events at
Permaculture Northern Beaches Photo Comp 2016
PERMACULTURE PHOTO COMPETITION 2016
1. Photos must be related to permaculture, ideally demonstrate a permaculture principle.
2. Photos must be high resolution, suitable for print. Landscape orientation preferred.
3. It must be an original photograph, not previously published.
4. You must be the copyright owner of the work.
5. You agree to have your photo displayed on the website and other digital and printed material produced by Permaculture Northern Beaches (PNB) and/or Permaculture Sydney North (PSN).
6. Enter as many times as you like.
7. Competition closes at the end of Summer: Sunday 28 Feb 2016.
VOTING
• Vote for your favourite photos by clicking the heart icon and leaving a comment.
• The winning photo will have the most number of LIKES + COMMENTS.
• The winning photo will be announced at the March monthly meeting, and published on the Permaculture NB's site and in the PNB mail list.
PRIZES
• A permaculture design consultation for your garden.
• Free admission to all PNB workshops in 2016.
• A place at our next Introduction to Permaculture course at Kimbriki EcoHouse & Garden on April 2-3, 2016.
• Additionally, the winning photo will be showcased on this homepage and the top photos will be submitted for consideration in the the 2017 Permaculture Principles calendar, (subject to their selection and printing requirements.)
More information and enter at:www.permaculturenorthernbeaches.org.au/#photo-comp
Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 17/1/2016
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
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.
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.
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.
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 February 7th, 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,
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
Articles This Week
Restoring Bilgola - Newport Escarpment Project: 2016
Have you noticed all the bamboo being removed just past The Serpentine as you travel north along Barrenjoey Road?
These works are part of the planned removal of environmental weeds and restoration works within this catchment. Large areas that are severely degraded such as this location, will be replanted with local native species that enable a healthy natural system to respond and adapt and support the full range of our native plants and animals.
Before bamboo removal
Works in progress after bamboo removal
Bush regeneration and weed control is being undertaken within the upper and lower areas of this escarpment from South Bilgola Headland down to Bilgola Surf Club and on the upper and lower bushland areas to Old Barrenjoey Road! The project is enabling major restoration works to be carried out throughout the Bilgola Newport Escarpment. The overall project has a budget of $160,000 and aims to be completed by 30 June 2016.
Two endangered native plant communities are located within the escarpment, Littoral or Coastal Rainforest and Themeda Grasslands on Coastal Headlands, as well as three other vegetation communities, making this location rich with a wide variety of native flora species.
Over 1725 local native tubestock have been grown from seed and will be planted by volunteers and bush regeneration contractors under the guidance of Council.
Would you like to help with this project?
Community residents and volunteers work at the Bilgola Beach Bushcare site on the 3rd Monday of each month from 9am – 12noon.
Can only help on the weekend?
There are several planned community planting events to be held on weekends in March and April at South Bilgola Headland and at the Bilgola Bushcare site (dates to be confirmed). Please call the Bushcare Officer if interested in participating in any events or for further details on this project call the Bushland Management Officer on 9970 1363.
Live locally? Want to help?
Simply remove all noxious and environmental weeds on your property as this will help to stop the spread of these species into our bushland areas. If you need some help to identify the weeds then call Pittwater Council or visit the website to find out more information – www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/weeds
Pittwater Council’s ‘Bilgola Creek biodiversity’ project is supported by the Sydney Coastal Councils Group through funding from the Australian government.
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There is more local and broader ranged current Environment news in each Issue's Environment page
Amalgamation Proposal Plans: Submissions Period now Open
Merger proposal handed down
08 Jan 2016
The NSW Government has made available its proposal document which outlines a merger of Pittwater with North Warringah to create an expanded Council.
Additionally the government has announced Richard Pearson as the Delegate who has been tasked with the function of examining and reporting on the merger proposal.
Richard Pearson is currently Director of Pearson Planning Solutions and is formerly the Deputy Secretary of the Department of Planning and Environment.
Pittwater Mayor Jacqueline Townsend said that an Extraordinary Meeting of Council will be held next Monday 11 January to discuss the NSW’s Government merger proposal.
Mayor Townsend said the Delegate has informed Council the community will have an opportunity to have their say through a public inquiry which is to be held as part of the proposal examination process. The community can also provide a written submission through the online portal. The date, time and location of the inquiry is yet to be set. We will notify the community once Council has been advised.
“The government’s proposed relocation of Pittwater’s boundary includes Terrey Hills, Narrabeen, Collaroy, Collaroy Plateau, Cromer, Wheeler Heights, Oxford Falls, Frenchs Forest, Duffys Forrest, Belrose, Davidson, Forestville and Killarney Heights.
The government’s proposal identifies the benefits the merger will provide to the local community including:
• a total financial benefit of $49 million over a 20 year period that can be reinvested in better services and more infrastructure
• a projected 67 per cent improvement in annual operating results
• potentially reducing the reliance on rate increases through Special Rate Variations (SRVs) to fund local infrastructure
• greater capacity to effectively manage and reduce the infrastructure backlog
• effective representation by a council with the required scale and capacity to meet the future needs of the community
• working with the NSW Government to complete the B-Line bus rapid transit project
• more integrated management of Narrabeen Lagoon and Catchment
• common parking system to deliver a reciprocal permit
• a new strategic centre at the Northern Beaches Hospital Precinct.
“For the time being it’s ‘business as usual’ for Pittwater,” Mayor Townsend added.
For details on the proposal and how to make a submission visitwww.councilboundaryreview.nsw.gov.au The submissions deadline is 28 February 2016.
For reform updates, please visit our website, subscribe to our e-newsletter aboutPittwater and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
Pet of the Week
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
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
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
Tanya from Soibada - Crowd funding
Can you please help us get the word out? Share our crowdfunding campaign with your friends and network please! Just click on the link below.
www.chuffed.org/project/support-tanya-from-soibada-timor-leste
Many of you know that I am a volunteer with “Pittwater Friends of Soibada Inc” and many of you have already helped us to make a difference in Soibada, Pittwater’s sister village in Timor Leste.
Our latest endeavour is to provide an education for 16 year old Tanya da Costa from Soibada. Tanya has been selected as the inaugural student for the Pittwater/Soibada Foster scheme by the village chiefs, her teachers and the Nuns at the orphanage where she lived. Tanya plans to become a doctor and return to Soibada to care for her people. We will provide her with a better education, greater opportunities for further study and the skills required to go back to Timor in the medical profession. Your tax deductible contribution will enable Tanya to change the future for the youth of Timor Leste.
Project Background
In 2010, the Pittwater Community and Pittwater Council partnered with Soibada in Timor Leste (East Timor). This initiative, which began at Maria Regina Catholic Primary School in Avalon, had such a positive impact in our local community that Pittwater Council also linked to the village of Soibada through their local government. It has since expanded to include Churches of all denominations, clubs, community groups, surf and sporting clubs, Rotary, Zonta and Veterans Groups. There are 54 such “Friendship” arrangements between villages in Timor and Australia, however Pittwater is the only one that encompasses Community Groups, churches and the Local Government.
The key objective of our organisation is to support sustainable development in the region. We are strongly committed to forging a lasting friendship between the communities of Pittwater and Soibada. This agreement provides a basis for the Pittwater Community to support and assist the people of Soibada to improve their daily lives and their future.
The Foster Scheme Project, a small component of the myriad of activities our charity is involved in, began at the request of renowned leaders in Timor Leste. They are extremely supportive as many of them were educated in Soibada and lived in the orphanage where Tanya grew up.
Please pass on this message and the link, donations of all sizes make a difference. Thank you
Tamara Sloper Harding - Chairperson, Pittwater Friends of Soibada Inc
See Issue 245: Soibada Student Wants To Be Educated In Pittwater: Let’s Help Her
Permaculture Northern Beaches Photo Comp 2016
PERMACULTURE PHOTO COMPETITION 2016
1. Photos must be related to permaculture, ideally demonstrate a permaculture principle.
2. Photos must be high resolution, suitable for print. Landscape orientation preferred.
3. It must be an original photograph, not previously published.
4. You must be the copyright owner of the work.
5. You agree to have your photo displayed on the website and other digital and printed material produced by Permaculture Northern Beaches (PNB) and/or Permaculture Sydney North (PSN).
6. Enter as many times as you like.
7. Competition closes at the end of Summer: Sunday 28 Feb 2016.
VOTING
• Vote for your favourite photos by clicking the heart icon and leaving a comment.
• The winning photo will have the most number of LIKES + COMMENTS.
• The winning photo will be announced at the March monthly meeting, and published on the Permaculture NB's site and in the PNB mail list.
PRIZES
• A permaculture design consultation for your garden.
• Free admission to all PNB workshops in 2016.
• A place at our next Introduction to Permaculture course at Kimbriki EcoHouse & Garden on April 2-3, 2016.
• Additionally, the winning photo will be showcased on this homepage and the top photos will be submitted for consideration in the the 2017 Permaculture Principles calendar, (subject to their selection and printing requirements.)
More information and enter at:www.permaculturenorthernbeaches.org.au/#photo-comp
Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 11/1/2016
click on Logo:
To contact Julian: editor@scotlandisland.org.au
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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 February 7th, 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,
Click on logo above to visit their website.
Bushcare in Pittwater 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