May 1 - 31, 2025: Issue 642

Front Page Issue 642

Week Three May 2025 (May 12 -18)

Aquatics Don Mitchell: Tribute to A Community-Minded  Local Legend

Pictures Mona Vale JRLFC's Inaugural Beau Hewitt Cup on The Raiders Home Ground

IPART Decision on Council Special Variation Application Approves 25.2% Permanent Increase

Minns Government commits to returning Northern Beaches Hospital into public hands 

Pittwater MP slams the Government’s Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy for turning on the tap for developers

Still No Insurance for e-bikes-e-scooters in NSW: Riders on pedestrian Footpaths still allowed - Government's Response to use of e-micromobility Inquiry tabled

Feedback invited until June 3 on proposed shorter-term WaterNSW prices: IPART's Prices for WaterNSW Greater Sydney from 1 October 2025 + Sydney Water sewage licences reviews open for public consultation: Warriewood + Manly - until June 12

Park Bench Philosophers Future of Sydney’s transport unearths a window to its past: colonial-era merchant, Prosper de Mestre's Pittwater Connection

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Week Two May 2025 (May 5 -11)

Profile of the Week:  Big Brother Movement Centenary 1925 to 2025: Now Sends Australians Out into the World -  Scholarships Now open for All Young Australians - Celebrating Courage, Care and Connection   

History:  Pittwater's Koalas Driven to Extinction: Some History

Government Response to Upper House inquiry into the ‘Ability of local governments to fund infrastructure and services’ signals Special Rates Variations will be tied to specific projects - time limited 

Wakehurst MP Michael Regan Tables the Northern Beaches Hospital (Voluntary Contract Termination) Bill 

Wedding Island Opening Weekend: 'A Triumph' - Review: Play Time! by Bill Gye OAM

May Reflections in the Waves by Roger Sayers OAM, Avalon Beach SLSC Centenary - 1925 to 2025

NSW Architecture Awards 2025: Shortlist announced May 12 + Local Nominations + Australian Institute of Architects 2025 National Prize winners - New President + The Inaugural Murcutt Symposium on this September 

Pittwater Tigers Secure 50k Grant for Auskick field at North Narrabeen + Amenities Upgrade

Return to Paradise Series 2: Being Filmed in Pittwater Again

Scruby-Regan-Greenwich Renew Call for Koala Park: Over 100 North Coast Businesses Call for the Immediate Establishment of the Whole Great Koala National Park - Still No Crossings in Place for Sydney's Last Koalas - Forestry Corp. of NSW Half-Yearly Report tabled

Warringah Golf Club appoints Prime Projects for new clubhouse build

Aquatics: Thousands reunited with loved ones thanks to tireless Marine Rescue NSW volunteers during high-demand boating season: MAYDAY Appeal 2025

NSW SES Hawkesbury Unit Celebrates 40 Years of Rescues 

NSW Government's Digital Inclusion Strategy Launched + NSW ID support bill Introduced

Pictures Pittwater's Mother Nature: Mother's Day 2025 - a celebration through some of the best photos taken by Joe Mills and Kevin Murray

Park Bench Philosophers It’s almost winter; Why is Australia still so hot? + Even as emissions level off, carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is growing faster than ever; Here’s why

DIY Ideas Potted Colour for Winter Brightness As Summer crop is harvested: Natives + Perennials + what to plant now for A Winter Vegetables crop

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Week One May 2025 (April 28 - May 4)

Profile of the Week:  Gwenyth Sneesby 1924 to 2025 Tribute

History:  Andrew Thompson of Scotland Island –  ‘Long Harry’ 

Scamps Retains Mackellar, Increases Margin, Steggall Retains Warringah, Increases Margin, Independent Nicolette Boele Looks set to Win Bradfield – Landslide win for Labor: The Data

Pictures Avalon Bulldogs A Grade 2025: Three Pittwater A Grade Teams this Season

Aquatics A Field Guide to the Marine Life of Coastal Reefs and Rock Pools: by Phil Colman - Peter Mitchell - an expanded + updated 'Exploring Tidal Waters on Australia’s Temperate Coast' for all who live here

'Wedding Island' The new island play opening this month  report by Roy Baker, Editor, Pittwater Offshore Newsletter

Attestation of Class 365 - Largest class to graduate in 11 years: 7 New Probationary Constables for Northern Beaches PAC

Australia Post Community Grant to First Hand Solutions' IndigiGrow - Grevillea Caleyi propagators - Continues the Saving of Critically Endangered Species

Park Bench Philosophers 2025 APRA Music Award winners announced

Food Invitation to share: Naturellement Festival – A Natural Wine & Food Celebration Just a Ferry Ride Away - runs May 17 to 18 at Ettalong Beach

Our 1 billion pet dogs do real environmental damage; NSW Pet Laws (dog and cat regulations) go under the microscope - Have your say until May 4

Minns Government Announces 'Joe's Law' to End Private-Public Hospital Model As Inquiry into Safety and Quality of Services at Northern Beach Hospital Opens  Submissions close May 20 2025 + Audit Office of NSW Report on Northern Beaches Hospital Released

Narrabeen's RSL ANZAC Village Renewal Project: Feedback Invited (May to June 2025) - History Insights Sought

Profile of the Week Palm Beach & Whale Beach Association Annual Report 2024/2025 + Guest Speaker: “Two Lives: Beverlie & Midget Farrelly”

The Palm Beach Whale Beach Association held its 107th AGM on Tuesday May 13 2025.

Assoc. Prof. Richard West AM was re-elected President and tabled his report, made available for the community this Issue - Prof. West has already served 10 years in this capacity.

Prof. West paid tribute to Virginia Christensen at this year's AGM, stepping down after years as a Vice-President, although she will remain active as a member.

Gordon Lang will be taking up the VP role alongside fellow VP Frank Edgell-Bush AM, who continues to represent the community and its residents.

Frank Edgell-Bush received his AM in the 2018 Queens' Birthday Honours List;  'For significant service to business, particularly to improving standards of corporate governance across the private, public and not-for-profit sectors.'

After presenting his report, Beverlie Farrelly, as this year's Guest Speaker, was interviewed by PBWBA Secretary Robert Mackinnon, a gentleman with a passion for local history, who is currently working on the Association's History - a legacy of looking after the local community and environment that stretches over 107 years.

About the PBWBA
The Palm Beach & Whale Beach Association is a not-for-profit, non-political organisation of volunteer residents who are passionate about keeping our area unique, and keeping the local council and state government accountable. Our objective (from our Constitution) is:
“to preserve and enhance the natural beauty of the area and to protect the local amenity by promoting proper planning of all developments and by expressing positively, in appropriate quarters, the views of residents.” 

The Association welcomes new members from the community.

They welcome new members from the community; click here to become a member of the Association or find out more about membership here.

    History Beverlie Farrelly in interview with PBWBA Secretary Robert Mackinnon: “Two Lives: Beverlie & Midget Farrelly”

    Bernard "Midget" Farrelly AM (13 September 1944 – 6 August 2016) was the first world surfing champion. Mr. Farrelly, was the first Australian to win a major surfing title, the 1963 Makaha International Surfing Championships, the unofficial world surfing championship of the day. In 1964 he won the inaugural World Surfing Championship at Manly Beach in Sydney.

    He was also the first president, in 1961, of one of Australia's oldest continuous surfboard riders club, the Dee Why Surfing Fraternity. He presented a ten-part television series about surfing in Australia, The Midget Farrelly Surf Show, for the ABC. Midget was posthumously inducted as a Member of the Order of Australia in the 2017 Queen's Birthday Honours.

    Palm Beach Whale Beach Association Secretary Robert Mackinnon's interview with Beverlie at the 2024-2025 AGM of the Association.

    Seen through the eyes of Beverlie Farrelly, discover how different the Avalon Beach of the 1950s and 60s was from the one of today: life was simpler and moved at a slower pace as a community was formed in the wake of WWII.

    As wife of the late Midget Farrelly, Beverlie shared insights into the remarkable life of this multi-faceted man who became Australia’s first international surfing champion. 

    Pittwater Offshore Newsletter:

    May 1 2025


    Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

    To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

    Parliamentary Committee to examine early childhood education and care sector in NSW

    An Upper House committee will conduct an inquiry into the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector in New South Wales.

    Ms Abigail Boyd MLC, Chair of the committee said: 'Over the past year, reports of serious harm to children within ECEC settings have escalated significantly. 

    Following recent media coverage of numerous reports alleging abuse, neglect, short staffing, non-compliance and widespread misconduct within the sector, industry insiders and concerned parents and carers have called for urgent action to bring these stories into the open and address the gaps and failings in our ECEC sector. That is what we intend to do with this inquiry.’

    ‘Early childhood education and care is a critical public service, entrusted with caring for some of the most vulnerable people in our society. This inquiry will enable the committee to scrutinise the current state of the ECEC sector and whether the current regulatory framework, including the NSW ECEC Regulatory
    Authority, is fit for purpose.’

    ‘We will investigate the health, safety and wellbeing of children and the quality of education and care being delivered by providers in over 6,000 ECEC services across NSW, in the context of the sector’s unique composition and existing models of government funding.’

    ‘High-quality and trusted education and care depends on a highly skilled and valued workforce. That’s why this inquiry will examine the safety, pay and conditions of all workers within the sector. It will also consider workers’ access to early childhood qualifications, and the availability and affordability of quality training institutions.’

    Ms Boyd concluded: ‘Families deserve transparency and accountability when it comes to child safety and wellbeing, and that’s what our committee hopes to help deliver through this inquiry.’

    The committee invites interested individuals and organisations to lodge a submission by 15 June 2025.

    The website contains further information about the inquiry, including committee members and terms of reference. 

    Independent review into the NSW Early Childhood Education and Care Regulatory Authority


    This is a separate review to that being conducted by the Upper House.

    The review has been commissioned to consider the NSW ECEC Regulatory Authority’s activities in accordance with the National Law and Regulations and the National Quality Framework.

    The purpose of the review is to ensure the NSW ECEC Regulatory Authority is positioned to achieve its core purpose – to regulate, monitor and support more than 6,000 ECEC services across NSW to drive quality outcomes for children and communities, and ensure all children get the best start in life.

    Review
    Former Deputy NSW Ombudsman Chris Wheeler is conducting the review.

    ECEC Regulation in NSW Independent Review
    Terms of reference

    1. Context
    In accordance with the Education and Care Services National Law and National Regulations, the National Quality Framework (NQF) is a risk-informed model of regulation that seeks to improve the educational and developmental outcomes for children attending education and care services.

    The NQF provides a national approach to regulation, assessment and quality improvement and is supported by appropriate and proportionate compliance responses whenever risks to the safety, health and wellbeing of children are identified or reported.

    The NSW Department of Education, through its Early Childhood Education and Care Regulatory Authority (ECEC RA), administers and enforces the NQF in NSW. The ECEC RA regulates more than 6,000 services that educate and care for approximately half a million children in NSW. These services care for children from birth to school age. Service types include long day care, outside school hours care (OSHC), family day care, preschool, mobile and occasional care services.

    The NSW Government has issued the ECEC RA a Statement of Expectations.

    The Statement of Expectations was created to build confidence and trust in the regulation of early childhood education and care services by establishing clear expectations for regulation and continuous improvement of the ECEC RA. The Statement of Expectations outlines the ECEC RA’s agreed deliverables, which support the delivery of safe, high-quality early childhood education and care in NSW.

    2. Scope of the Review
    The NSW Government is seeking an independent review to assure itself and the wider community that the work of the ECEC RA in NSW:
    • demonstrates regulatory efficacy under the NQF
    • is in line with and responsive to the NSW Government’s expectations, and
    • is resourced, structured and operating adequately to meet the objectives of the NQF.
    Specific matters to be addressed in the independent review include examination of:
    • the trends and reasons behind them in relation to the level of compliance activity and actions in NSW
    • the level of information made available to the public about the compliance performance of early childhood education and care services in NSW, and
    • comparative analysis of these matters across Australian jurisdictions, including any other matters concerning regulatory efficacy.
    The independent review should also consider more broadly and make recommendations for improvement in line with findings, both in relation to:
    • whether the ECEC RA in NSW is doing an effective job given the national framework in which it must operate, and
    • to what extent the national framework is in alignment with the NSW Government’s expectations.
    The independent review will be supported, where appropriate and as determined by the independent reviewer, through external engagement with key stakeholders.

    3. Deliverables and Timelines
    The independent reviewer will be appointed in March 2025. An independent review report will be submitted to the NSW Government for its consideration by 31 May 2025 with a view to the independent review report being published by 30 June 2025.

    Other contacts
    If you have a complaint or would like to make a disclosure about a matter at your early childhood centre you can contact the Regulatory Authority's specialist team to make a report on 1800 619 113 (toll free) or ececd@det.nsw.edu.au. Complainants may remain anonymous if they wish.

    Elanora Heights Newsagency- Post Office Closing After 24 Years

    May 14, 2025
    Our Closing Down SALE has started come and grab great deals on Gifts, Stationary, Cards, Wraps etc - Please help us empty the shop.

    Intergenerational Opportunity

    Calling all adults 65+: Opportunity to Participate in a FREE Intergenerational Playgroup Program.

    Incredible opportunity for older adults (65+) to participate in an Intergenerational Program under the “INTEGRITY” research trial, bringing adults and pre-school-aged children together for fun-filled and engaging activities, hoping to improve health and wellbeing outcomes for all.

    Similar to the playgroup seen on the ABC Program 'Old People's Home for 4 Year Olds'.

    Sites starting SOON and seeking older adults now include Terrey Hills and Dee Why preschools. This 20-week program involving 2-hour weekly sessions will be held at nearby local preschools throughout Sydney.

    Eligibility requirements apply. Interested or want to know more? Call: 8052 4365, email integrity-study@georgeinstitute.org.au or visit https://redcap.link/integrity.trial.eoi

    In conjunction with the University of NSW and The George Institute for Global Health.

    ABN 90 085 953 331

    Narrabeen Sports High School Car Boot Sale

    Our P&C Car Boot Sale is happening on Sunday 25 May, from 7am–1pm on the back oval — and you’re invited!

    Browse through car loads of pre-loved treasures, grab a bargain, treat yourself to some homemade baked goodies, enjoy a sausage sizzle, and kick back to live tunes from our talented student performers.

    It’s a fun-filled morning for the whole family and a fantastic way to support our school community. See you there!

    Australian-first women veterans research project to help address support needs

    May 14, 2025
    The Minns Labor Government is conducting an Australian-first research project to improve wellbeing support services for women veterans in the State, in partnership with RSL NSW and Monash University.

    An action of the recently-launched NSW Veterans Strategy 2025-2030, the Shaping Support Services for Women Veterans project will explore how veteran wellbeing services may be tailored to the needs of former servicewomen in NSW.

    With a growing number of women veterans it is important to understand the challenges they face when using these services.

    The research will include a survey and interviews with women veterans to learn about their experiences, challenges, and further support needs.

    The survey will ask women veterans about what’s important to them and what areas need to be improved, including balancing caregiving responsibilities, dealing with women’s specific health needs, and managing service-related physical and mental health issues.

    According to the 2021 ABS Census data, NSW is home to 127,600 ADF veterans, 11.7% of who are women (14,923). At the time of the census, 3,876 women were serving full-time in the ADF, with an additional 1,183 in the Reserves. Together, they accounted for 20% of the total currently serving ADF personnel.

    Participation in the research is voluntary and includes an online anonymous survey to capture data on the experiences of women veterans accessing veteran-specific services, and an optional follow up interview that allows participants to expand on their responses and experiences.

    For more information and to participate in the survey visit the Shaping Support Services for Women Veterans web page.

    To read the NSW Veterans Strategy 2025-2030 visit the NSW Veterans Strategy web page.

    Minister for Veterans David Harris said:
    "The NSW Government is partnering with RSL NSW and Monash University to conduct an Australian-first project that gives a voice to women veterans while shaping plans for veteran-specific wellbeing support options in NSW.

    “As the number of women in the veteran community continues to grow, it is essential that veteran wellbeing services which were historically designed with men in mind, evolve to address the unique needs of all genders.

    “This new program is an action of our new 5-year NSW Veterans Strategy to support the wellbeing of veterans and their families and acknowledge their vital contribution to NSW.”

    Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:
    “NSW is home to almost 15,000 female veterans and this research project is all about ensuring their voices are heard.

    “We know women are making a significant contribution in roles traditionally occupied by men whether it be in the Air Force, Army or Navy.

    “Veterans have made significant sacrifices to uphold the defence of our nation and deserve to know that all levels of government value them.”

    RSL NSW CEO Giles Hurst said:
    “RSL NSW is proud to be working with the NSW Government to progress this innovative research project to ensure women veterans have access to the tailored support services that they need.

    “Importantly, this work will be informed by the experiences of women who have served in the Australian Defence Force, including the challenges they have encountered when accessing support services. This is critical to ensuring some 20,000 current and former servicewomen who reside in NSW have timely access to high-quality services into the future.”     

    RAAF veteran and President of the Defence Force Welfare Association, Del Gaudry CSC said:
    “Women veterans represent a growing segment of the veteran population, yet our experiences and needs have historically been underrepresented in veteran support services. Women veterans are more likely to have faced issues around sexual trauma, reproductive health issues and mental health conditions.

    “To provide more tailored services to women veterans, relevant data is needed to support and shape services specifically for women. I believe this survey will underscore the commitment to addressing the unique needs and challenges which can differ significantly from those of our male counterparts.”

    Elanora Players Next production!

    July 2025 Performance: The Great Divide

    CAST
    Barbara Hansen as Alex Whittle
    Chris Richardson as Grace Delahunty
    Miriam Gonzaga as Penny Poulter
    Phoebe Brian as Rachel Poulter
    Hans Wrang as Alan Bridger
    Mike Radcliffe as Brian

    PERFORMANCE DATES
    Friday 11 Jul 7.30pm (Opening Night)*
    Saturday 12 Jul 3pm & 7.30pm
    Sunday 13 Jul 11am & 3pm
    Friday 18 Jul 7.30pm
    Saturday 19 Jul 1pm (note new times for last performances)
    * Join us for complimentary wine and cheese after the show on Opening Night!

    North Narrabeen Community Centre, 2-10 Woorarra Avenue, North Narrabeen.

    TICKETS: $35, $28 concession
    One complimentary ticket for bookings of 10 or more. Email admin@elanoraplayers.com.au for more info.
    On sale now! 

    Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week

    Holly

    5yo Staffy X

    Holly is a sad shut down girl who has just been a breeding machine all her life and got discarded in the pound with a huge tumour on her vulva which we have removed. She is scared to interact with you and looks like she is expecting some punishment. She trembles and cowers. When you meet her, she is easy to handle and she LOVES BBQ chicken!! She walks slowly on lead. Walks seem to be something new to her. She is looking for an experienced owner who can nurture her and slowly get her used to the big world. She has a smooth coat and weighs 19.7kg. All our dogs come with desexed, fully vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. She suits apartment living and a home based worker. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DoggieRescue Vet. Her adoption fee is $450. 

    Anzac 

    6yo Foxy X

    Anzac is a very gentle sweet boy who came from the pound from a deceased estate. Anzac lived an elderly person, so his experiences have been limited, but he learns new things so quickly. He is social with small dogs who are not in his face. He warms up quickly to people and is very easy to handle and bath. He walks well on loose lead. He is so grateful for some care and love. He has just had a dental and recently desexed. He has a medium/short coat and weighs 10.1kg. All our dogs come with desexed, fully vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. He suits apartment living and a FT  worker. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DoggieRescue Vet. His adoption fee is $700.

    For further details call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133  or email  Monika@DoggieRescue.com.  RON R251000024

    2025 Environmental Art & Design Prize Entries Now open 

    Council has announced Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran (art) and Keinton Butler (design) as the judges for this year’s Environmental Art & Design Prize.

    Now in its fifth year, Environmental Art & Design Prize is open to artists and designers of all levels and diverse disciplines from across Australia. Submissions will be accepted to 19 May 2025.

    Mayor Sue Heins said the prize has developed into one of the leading competitions covering both art and design focusing on the environment.

    “Each year fascinating art works and designs are submitted for this environmentally thought-provoking prize.

    “The prize is an important platform for the natural environment to take centre stage, enabling artists and designers to share their work inspired by nature, climate change and sustainable living.

    “In past years we have seen impactful submissions from creatives including painters, ceramists and furniture designers. This year we would also love to see more contributions from architects, product, fashion and industrial designers.

    “We are looking forward to an amazing array of powerful artworks and designs for 2025,” Mayor Heins said.

    This year’s judges have vast experience in the art and design worlds. Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran is a contemporary artist with his work appearing in galleries across the globe. Keinton Butler is Senior Curator at Sydney’s Powerhouse Museum and the Creative Director of Sydney Design Week.

    There are four prizes on offer this year with prize money totalling $46000. 

    The visual arts and design winners will each receive $20,000. The people’s choice winners and the young artists/designers have a prize pool of $3,000 each.

    All finalists will be featured in an exhibition across the Council’s 3 galleries, Manly Art Gallery and Museum (MAG&M), Curl Curl Creative Space, and Mona Vale Creative Space Gallery from 1 August to 14 September 2025.

    Finalists will be announced on Friday 23 May and the winners will be announced on Friday1 August 2025.

    For more information, and to enter, visit Council's webpage at: https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/arts-and-culture/northern-beaches-environmental-art-and-design-prize   

    Solar for apartment residents: Funding

    Owners corporations can apply now for funding to install shared solar systems on your apartment building. The grants will cover 50% of the cost, which will add value to homes and help residents save on their electricity bills.

    You can apply for the Solar for apartment residents grant to fund 50% of the cost of a shared solar photovoltaic (PV) system on eligible apartment buildings and other multi-unit dwellings in NSW. This will help residents, including renters, to reduce their energy bills and greenhouse gas emissions.

    Less than 2% of apartment buildings in NSW currently have solar systems installed. As energy costs climb and the number of people living in apartments continue to increase, innovative solutions are needed to allow apartment owners and renters to benefit from solar energy.

    A total of $25 million in grant funding is available, with up to $150,000 per project.

    Financial support for this grant is from the Australian Government and the NSW Government.

    Applications are open now and will close 5 pm 1 December 2025 or earlier if the funds are fully allocated.

    Find out more and apply now at: www.energy.nsw.gov.au/households/rebates-grants-and-schemes/solar-apartment-residents 

    Nominate a Volunteer Today: 2025 Awards

    Nominations have now opened for the 2025 NSW Volunteer of the Year awards which recognise the outstanding efforts of the 4.3 million volunteers in NSW.

    Member for Manly, James Griffin said volunteering is incredibly valuable to local communities, with a range of community groups including sporting organisations relying on the hard work of volunteers. 

    “Volunteers contribute $178 billion to the NSW economy, and I know here locally, our community just wouldn’t work as it does, without the dedication of volunteers,” Mr Griffin said.

    “In many ways, volunteers are the backbone of our communities, and that is particularly true in the Manly electorate.

    “From our service clubs, emergency services, church groups, hospital auxiliaries and sporting clubs, there are those who work tirelessly to make our part of the world a better place to live.

    “There are countless projects and initiatives in our electorate that simply would never have happened without the work of volunteers, and I sincerely thank everyone who sacrifices their time for the betterment of our communities,” Mr Griffin said.

    “If you know someone who deserves to be recognised as part of the 2025 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, I encourage you to lodge your nomination promptly,” he said.

    The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards are an annual program aimed at recognising the incredible dedication, effort and community service of our state’s volunteers, volunteer leaders and volunteer teams.

    Nominations for the 2025 awards are now open and close on Friday 23rd of May 2025.

    To learn more about the awards, please visit The Centre for Volunteering website at The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards - The Centre for Volunteering.

    More funding available for war memorials in NSW

    Applications for the Community War Memorials Fund 2025/26 are open, with $250,000 in funding available for the protection and conservation of war memorials.

    The program supports the conservation, repair and protection of local memorials throughout NSW.

    This year sees changes to enhance the grant program and deliver greater funding opportunities to organisations seeking to undertake conservation work on war memorials in local communities across NSW.

    There is now one grant round per year with a total of $250,000 funding available. The maximum individual grant amount has also increased to $15,000.

    Applications can also be submitted under a new category for works to war memorial precincts, as well as the existing categories for condition assessments and physical works.

    Recipients of funding from previous rounds of the program include the Windsor and District RSL sub-Branch who received $6,700 for conservation works to two honour rolls at the Colo War Memorial dedicated to those from the local community who served in the First and Second World Wars. The memorial is a valuable part of the Colo community’s commemorative events honouring the service of its veterans, including Anzac Day services.

    To be eligible for funding, the memorial must be listed on the NSW War Memorials Register: www.warmemorialsregister.nsw.gov.au.

    More information on the program and details for how to apply are available here: www.veterans.nsw.gov.au/heritage/community-war-memorials-fund.

    The 2025/2026 round of the Community War Memorials Fund closes on 25 June 2025.

    Slow Down: Wildlife Crossing

    Please contact Sydney Wildlife Rescue on (02) 9413 4300 for advice if you hit a native animal or come across an injured one while driving. It is helpful if you can provide an accurate location or landmark to assist our rescuers who will pouch check marsupials for joeys, so little lives like Phoebe can be saved. 


     
    Photo: Phoebe the Swamp Wallaby by Jane Notice

    Speed humps on McCarrs Creek Rd: share Wildlife Data 

    Local wildlife rescuers are asking all members of the public to report any roadkill on McCarrs Ck Rd or any other road in the NB (Wakehurst Parkway or Mona Vale Road for instance) on www.wildlifemapping.org

    This records the GPS position, date, sex, species. Photos can be added as they help in identification. The data is then forwarded to OEH and Transport NSW as it can help establish the best places to place mitigation. There is so much wildlife on the move in our area at present due to various pressures. This database that volunteers maintain needs three pieces of information:
    1. The position via GPS or road and suburb
    2. The date
    3. The animal
    The details can be entered into the database directly by you at:   www.wildlifemapping.org

    Community News + what ran in each Issue

    Community News Pages list articles that ran each week as well as reports run in other pages: Inbox and Environment News archives etc.

    March 2013  April 2013 May 2013  June 2013 July 2013 August 2013 September 2013 October 2013 November 2013  December 2013

    January 2014 February 2014  March 2014  April 2014  May 2014 June 2014  July 2014  August 2014  September 2014 October 2014  November 2014  December 2014 

    January 2015  February 2015 March 2015  April 2015 May 2015  June 2015  July 2015  August 2015  September 2015  October 2015 November 2015  December 2015 

    January 2016  February 2016 March 2016 April 2016 May 2016 June 2016 July 2016  August 2016 September 2016 October 2016  November 2016  December 2016  

    January 2017  February 2017  March 2017 April 2017 May 2017 June 2017 July 2017  August 2017 September 2017 October 2017  November 2017  December 2017 

    January 2018  February 2018 March 2018  April 2018  May 2018  June 2018  July 2018 August 2018 September 2018 October 2018 November 2018  December 2018

    January 2019  February 2019  March 2019  April 2019 May 2019  June 2019  July 2019  August 2019  September 2019  October 2019  November 2019   December 2019 

    January 2020 February 2020 March 2020  April 2020 May 2020  June 2020  July 2020  August 2020  September 2020  October 2020  November 2020  December 2020

    January 2021  February 2021  March 2021  April 2021  May 2021  June 2021  July 2021  August 2021  September 2021  October 2021  November 2021  December 2021

    January 2022  February 2022  March 2022  April 2022  May 2022  June 2022  July 2022 August 2022  September 2022  October 2022  November 2022  December 2022

    January 2023  February 2023  March 2023  April 2023  May 2023 June 2023 July 2023  August 2023  September 2023  October 2023 November 2023  December 2023

    January 2024  February 2024  March 2024  April 2024  May 2024  June 2024 July 2024  August 2024  September 2024  October 2024  November 2024  December 2024

    January 2025  February 2025  March 2025  April 2025  May 2025

    Letters to the Editor

    Letters should preferably be 150 to 175 words, but that remains optional. Letters must include the writer's address and phone number and 'permission to publish'.  The editor's prerogative includes editing letters for length, grammar or legal reasons.  Email: pittwateronlinenews@live.com.au

    Vale Don Mitchell

    We extend our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Avalon Beach SLSC Life Member, Don Mitchell, who passed away early Tuesday May 13 2025.  

    Don (or ‘Mulga’ as he was often called) was awarded his Bronze Medallion during the 1953/54 season. Don was Patrol Captain during the 1958/59 season and was a keen carnival competitor. 



    In 1961 John Campbell, John Fuller, Bob Head and Don Mitchell headed to Cornwall in the UK to assist and instruct locals in surf life saving. 

    On 2 November 1969 Don joined his brother, Life Member Warren Mitchell OAM, as Bowman in the first test run of an IRB in Australian waters, at Avalon Beach. 

     The first surf rescue IRB trial: Avalon Beach, 2 November 1969. Driver: Warren Mitchell, OAM, Life Member, Avalon Beach SLSC. Crew: Don Mitchell, Life Member, Avalon Beach SLSC 

    In 2019 Don travelled up from Tasmania to also represent his brother (who still lives in the UK) at the unveiling of the plaque commemorating 50 years of the IRB at its birth-place, Avalon Beach.  

    Don Mitchell at IRB plaque unveiling - photo by Michael Mannington OAM for PON

    Don received his Life Membership of the Club in 1986. 
    Vale Don.

    Avalon Beach SLSC

    A Tribute of Don's service to our community and his passion for IRB's runs as this week's Aquatics Feature, as penned by his fellow ABSLSC Life Members.

     John Towner, John Greaves, Don Mitchell, Bob Head and Jim Burgess at Avalon Beach SLSC 90th Anniversary Celebrations.

    Prof. Richard West AM Commences 11th Term as Palm Beach Whale Beach Association President

    Congratulations to Richard West who was elected for yet another term as the president of the Palm Beach- Whale Beach Association, the local residents group, at the AGM held on Tuesday May 13th.

    The news service has been fortunate to speak with Prof. West for his Profile which will run, once he has vetted the transcript, shortly.

    After presenting his report, Beverlie Farrelly, as this year's Guest Speaker, was interviewed by PBWBA Secretary Robert Mackinnon, a gentleman with a passion for local history, who is currently working on the Association's History - a legacy of looking after the local community and environment that stretches over 107 years.

    That all runs as this week's Profile.

    Robert presents an Australian flowers bouquet- 'my favourites' said Beverlie - as a thank you

    Prof. West paid tribute to Virginia Christensen at this year's AGM, stepping down after years as a Vice-President, although she will remain active as a member.

    Gordon Lang will be taking up the VP role alongside fellow VP Frank Edgell-Bush AM, who continues to represent the community and its residents.

    Frank Edgell-Bush received his AM in the 2018 Queens' Birthday Honours List;  'For significant service to business, particularly to improving standards of corporate governance across the private, public and not-for-profit sectors.'

    On Monday May 26th the PBWBA will host a special Guest Speaker from the NSW State Library on the “PIX: Palm Beach Expose” at their monthly coffee meeting - sure to be a great insight into the Palm Beach of the 1930's. The news service has already run some of these great photos and stories as part of Palm Beach history pages, but the State Library of NSW has a wonderful team of researchers and archivists who no doubt will provide some brilliant insights. 

    That will run from 10.30am at The Pacific Club for members.

    The Palm Beach & Whale Beach Association is a not-for-profit, non-political organisation of volunteer residents who are passionate about keeping our area unique, and keeping the local council and state government accountable. 

    Their objective (from their Constitution) is:

    “to preserve and enhance the natural beauty of the area and to protect the local amenity by promoting proper planning of all developments and by expressing positively, in appropriate quarters, the views of residents.” 

    They welcome new members from the community; click here to become a member of the Association or find out more about membership here.


    PBWBA Committee

    NSW Government publishes report from Special Commission of Inquiry into Healthcare Funding

    May 16, 2025
    The NSW Government has today released the report from the Special Commission of Inquiry into Healthcare Funding.

    This delivers on an election commitment from the Minns Labor Government to have an inquiry into healthcare spending.

    The commission, led by Hon. Justice Richard Beasly, found the NSW Health system to be a high performing one with the treatment and care it provides to be among the best in the world.

    As with any large and complex organisation, there is always room for improvement.

    The inquiry received 226 written submissions as well as heard testimony from 225 witnesses over 70 days of hearings, including patients, providers and policy experts.

    The inquiry also visited every local health district and specialty health network across metropolitan as well as regional NSW, including meeting management, clinicians, health consumers, and healthcare providers such as General Practitioners, Non-Government Organisations, and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations and Aboriginal Medical Services.

    From this, the report has produced 41 recommendations across 12 priority areas including:
    • the need for allied and preventative healthcare
    • challenges around primary and aged care
    • the health workforce
    • statewide health service planning
    • procurement processes
    • innovation.
    The Government will now carefully consider these findings and respond in due course.


    Minister for Health Ryan Park said:
    “I want to say from the outset that the NSW health system is one of the highest performing in the world, supported by the most talented and dedicated clinicians and workers.

    “It doesn’t mean that we don’t have our challenges, and it doesn’t mean we can’t find more ways to improve.

    “This is why we delivered on our election commitment to establish a Special Commission of Inquiry into healthcare spending.

    “I am so grateful to the commission and the many people from every level of our health system who generously shared their insights with the inquiry.

    “It is now time to give the findings and recommendations of this report the consideration it deserves.”

    Quotes attributable to Health Services Union Secretary Gerard Hayes:

    "We have an opportunity to fundamentally shift our health system's focus by embracing this report.

    "We know the future of healthcare is in allied and preventative care, which will keep people out of hospital and help them recover faster.

    "The HSU is ready to work with the state government to implement the reforms recommended in the report, which will improve the health of the people of NSW.

    "Shifting our attention from costly emergency and surgical intervention to allied and preventative care will save money and improve peoples' health, which is not only good for individuals but the wider community."

    Renewing the water main in Old Barrenjoey Road: Update

    Construction update – Friday 16 May 2025

    TThis week we finished installing the new water main in the shared space zone near Avalon Parade. We also reinstalled the benches and bollards that we temporarily removed to carry out this work. 
     
    Next week, we’ll move to the other side of the Avalon Parade intersection, near 72 Old Barrenjoey Road (see map below), and continue installing the new water main. 
     
    Our night work will involve:
    • temporarily closing Old Barrenjoey Road during our night work hours – see map below. General traffic will be diverted via local streets. Access to driveways, businesses and parking spaces will be maintained at all times. Our traffic controllers will be on site to assist and to help keep traffic flowing safely.
    • using saw cutters or jackhammers to open the road for our work. Use of the saw cutter and jack hammer will finish by midnight. 
    • digging using an excavator and installing the new water main in sections
    • temporary rolling storage area consisting of up to eight parking spaces, located out the front of 52 – 54 Old Barrenjoey Road.
    • pot holing using a vacuum truck to confirm the location of underground services within our work area.
    • placing a temporary road plate over a part of the trench to allow concrete to set. We will remove the plate and cover the area with hot mix as soon as possible.
     

    Our work is weather dependent. If it’s too wet to work safely, we’ll pause and return when conditions improve. We have reinforced, and will continue to monitor, our sediment controls at our compound site to prepare for the forecasted wet weather next week.
     
    If we finish next week’s planned work early, we may keep moving further down Old Barrenjoey Road towards The Crescent.

    As a reminder, our night work hours are 8 pm to 5 am, Monday nights to Friday mornings. We will not work on Public Holidays, Friday, Saturday or Sunday nights.
     
    There will be some noise from our equipment and machinery as our work progresses along Old Barrenjoey Road. The level of noise you may experience will vary based on how far you live from our work area and what type of property you live in.
     
    We will make every effort minimise noise where possible. We will finish the noisiest work (including saw cutting or jackhammering) by midnight, avoid unnecessary loud noises where possible and turn off vehicles when not in use. 
     
    At the end of each shift, we will temporarily restore Old Barrenjoey Road to allow for continued use during the day. 
     
    We would like to sincerely thank you for your patience and understanding while we do this essential work.

    Contact us 
     
    We are always here to keep you updated and discuss any concerns you may have during the coming months. For more information or to speak to a member of our team, you can:
     
    We are always here to keep you updated and discuss any concerns you may have during the coming months. For more information or to speak to a member of our team, you can: 
    • Visit our project website.
    • Call us on 1800 943 119 or email confluence@sydneywater.com.au. For other Sydney Water repairs or faults, please call 13 20 90 (24 hours). 
    • Speak to us in person at one of our monthly drop-in sessions in Dunbar Park. They are held on the first Wednesday of every month, between 1 pm and 3 pm. Our next one is planned for Wednesday 4 June.
    Sydney Water & Confluence Water project team 

    Appeal for Information: Warriewood 

    Northern Beaches Police Area Command

    Appeal for Information: Avalon

    Northern Beaches Police Area Command

    First NSW Waste and Circular Infrastructure Plan released

    May 14, 2025
    The Minns Labor Government has released a draft of NSW’s Waste and Circular Infrastructure Plan, which is needed to prevent Greater Sydney running out of landfill. Without intervention, waste collection and disposal services could be severely impacted by 2030, forcing councils to transport rubbish to regional areas or interstate.

    Failure to tackle this would drive up the cost of kerbside bin collections and lead to costs for residents and businesses increasing by around 20%.

    A slowdown in rubbish collection would also impact critical infrastructure projects, such as new housing developments. It’s estimated that it could cost the economy around $23 billion.

    The first chapter of the draft NSW Waste and Circular Infrastructure Plan will consult councils, industry and the community on the next steps to build the infrastructure required across Greater Sydney.

    Future chapters are expected to be released later this year and will focus on enhancing recycling infrastructure and addressing the unique waste challenges facing regional and remote NSW.

    The release of this chapter lays out how the NSW Government will:
    • safely manage the waste we don’t recycle and avoid Greater Sydney’s imminent shortfalls in landfill capacity
    • collect and process increased volumes of organic waste, as source-separated FOGO collections are rolled out across Greater Sydney.
    The Minns Labor Government recognises that a state government cannot do this alone. A new Ministerial Advisory Committee will be established to guide the plan’s implementation and advise on local barriers, identify opportunities for investment and report on progress.

    This plan follows the NSW Government’s recent mandate of Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) recycling. FOGO will reduce the volume of food waste sent to landfill, by diverting up to 950,000 tonnes of each year.

    To have your say by 25 June 2025, visit the Draft NSW Waste and Circular Infrastructure Plan web page.

    Minister for the Environment, Penny Sharpe said:
    “For too long, state governments have ignored the fact that Greater Sydney is running out of landfill.

    “Waste collection is an essential service.

    “This draft plan is the first of its kind and is long overdue.

    “We can no longer kick this problem down the road. I look forward to working with local councils, industry and local communities to urgently address the problem.”

    Create NSW Cultural Grants - Now Open

    The Royal Australian Historical Society (RAHS) is pleased to announce that applications for the 2025 Cultural Grants Program are now open. Administered by the RAHS on behalf of Create NSW, the program provides funding of up to $5,000 to support the research and publication of local, community, and regional history projects that deepen our understanding of New South Wales’ diverse past.
     
    A powerful example of the program’s impact is the recently completed publication Jacky Sloan of the Lachlan: Miyagan Bala Yambuwan by the Callara Culture and Heritage Aboriginal Corporation. The book provides a detailed history, genealogy, and heritage of the family of Wiradjuri man Jacky Sloan from the Lachlan River, NSW. It is a significant contribution to Aboriginal family histories, including the remarkable stories of Jacky’s twenty-one descendants who served in World Wars One and Two. The book was launched over the Easter weekend at a Sloan family reunion in Forbes and Eugowra, accompanied by an art exhibition titled Battle Scars by Julie Hutchings. The exhibition explored the impact of war and intergenerational trauma through a Wiradjuri lens.

    The RAHS congratulates the Callara Culture and Heritage Aboriginal Corporation on this important achievement, especially the tireless work of editor Rebecca Shepherd. We also thank the team at Create NSW for their ongoing support of the Cultural Grants Program, which enables communities across NSW to share their histories in meaningful and lasting ways. 

    The 2025 Cultural Grants Program opens on 7 May and will close on 25 June at midnight.

    To view the guidelines and application form please visit.

    Have your Say on SafeWork NSW’s priorities for next financial year

    The NSW Government is seeking feedback from employers, workers, unions and industry on SafeWork NSW’s regulatory priorities for the 2025/26 financial year.

    The regulatory priorities are part of the SafeWork NSW Annual Regulatory Statement (ARS). Consultation is now open and comments will be considered for the ARS which is being launched on 1 July 2025.

    The proposed regulatory priorities for the upcoming financial year are:
    • falls from heights,
    • harms to workers in the health care and social assistance sector,
    • managing psychosocial risks at work including the risk of sexual harassment,
    • exposure to hazardous chemicals including silica, asbestos and welding fumes,
    • injury from mobile plant, vehicles or fixed machinery.
    Feedback will help make sure the ARS reflects industry needs, protects workers and keeps the community safe and supports the SafeWork NSW Strategic Plan 2024-2029.

    To have your say visit the Have Your Say website before the consultation closes on Sunday 25 May 2025.

    Minister for Industrial relations Sophie Cotsis said:
    “SafeWork is dedicated to securing safe and healthy workplaces in NSW so that businesses thrive, and employees can go to work confident in their safety and well-being.

    “I encourage everyone to participate in this consultation to help ensure SafeWork NSW is focused on the right priorities for the year ahead.”

    Nominations open for the 2025 Public Education Awards

    Do you know someone who proudly demonstrates the values of public education?

    Or perhaps you’ve noticed a school community that has been quietly working to improve equity and build capacity for its students and their families?

    This is your chance to nominate them for the 2025 Public Education Foundation Awards.

    “Public education and its achievements deserve to be celebrated, as do the people and school communities that make those achievements happen,” said NSW Department of Education Secretary Murat Dizdar.

    “I encourage any staff member who knows a person or a school that’s deserving of recognition to nominate them for this year’s Public Education Foundation Awards.”

    The awards promote the exceptional work that takes place every day in the NSW public education system – by schools, students, teachers, staff, and volunteers.

    There are seven award categories, reflecting public education’s priorities of excellence, diversity, inclusion, belonging and living our values.

    “Each day, dedicated individuals within our public education system inspire and uplift those around them,” said Paul Somers, the Public Education Foundation’s Chief Operating Officer.

    “The Public Education Awards provide an opportunity to shine a spotlight on these unsung heroes who embody the values of commitment, equity, and excellence in education.”

    For further information including how to make a nomination, visit NSW Public Education Awards – Public Education Foundation

    Nominations close on Friday 9 May 2025 at 5pm.

    2025 Public Education Award Categories
    Open to all staff:
    • Secretary's Award for Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging 
    Recognising schools and school-based staff: 
    • Minister's Award for Excellence in Teaching 
    • Secretary's Award for Excellent Service 
    • Secretary's Award for Outstanding School Achievement
    Recognising students, parents and volunteers: 
    • Minister's Award for Excellence in Student Achievement
    • Public School Parent and Volunteer of the Year Award
    Recognising Education support staff:
    • Secretary's Award for Living Our Values

    Volunteers in the spotlight as nominations open for inaugural emergency award

    People across NSW are urged to shine a light on the state’s dedicated and brave emergency volunteers, through the inaugural NSW Emergency Volunteer of the Year award.

    This award is the first of its kind in NSW, designed to recognise all types of volunteers who have made an exceptional contribution to the NSW community during times of crisis.

    The award is delivered as part of the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards which are run by the Centre for Volunteering – the peak body for volunteering in NSW.

    The award is open to emergency services volunteers, but also community groups and individuals who volunteer to support their community to prepare for, respond to, or recover from disasters.

    Nominations can be submitted for anyone who volunteers in association with an emergency services organisation, a community-based organisation, a non-government organisation, or unaffiliated with any organisation.

    This initiative follows the announcement earlier this year of the Premier’s Flood Emergency Citation, ensuring that the unique and vital contributions of emergency responders and volunteers during major NSW flood events between 2021 and 2023 are recognised.

    Individuals or volunteer teams can be nominated for the NSW Emergency Volunteer of the Year award across emergency prevention, preparation, response, or recovery efforts.

    Nominations can be submitted before 5pm on Friday, 23 May 2025.


    Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:

    “This award improves the recognition of not only volunteers from emergency services organisations, but also informal volunteers and other community organisations. It’s just one way to let your local emergency volunteers know their dedication and contribution doesn’t go unnoticed.

    “Our dedicated volunteers across NSW provide emergency support for people when they’re most in need. They’re often first on the scene, protecting and caring for us when we need it most.

    “Almost everyone knows someone who gives their time as an emergency volunteer. I urge you to go online and take the time to nominate them for this important award.”

    Minister with responsibility for volunteering Jodie Harrison said:
    “Volunteers come from all walks of life and represent the beating heart of communities across NSW.

    “Volunteers deserve to know they are valued and that’s why this award matters.

    “We know volunteers don’t work hard for accolades, they do it because they are committed to building better communities and helping those in need.”

    Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said:
    “The Centre welcomes the additional support this year of NSW emergency services, which highlights just how important these awards are to the state.

    “Volunteers are always there to provide care, support, and lifesaving response during floods, storms, and fire across our beaches and water ways.

    “This is a wonderful initiative of the NSW Government, and we look forward to meeting many of the inspiring emergency volunteers at our regional ceremonies later in the year.”

    ACMA welcomes commercial radio code of practice consultation

    The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has welcomed Commercial Radio & Audio’s (CRA) public consultation of its draft code of practice. On registration by the ACMA, this code would establish a revised set of rules for what can and can’t be broadcast on commercial radio.

    The ACMA has been encouraging CRA to review and update its code, which was last fully reviewed in 2017, to better respond to a changing media landscape and address contemporary audience expectations. As part of the review process, the ACMA has shared with CRA its views on a range of issues based on its regulatory and research activities. We are pleased that some of these have been addressed through revisions to the draft code and we welcome CRA seeking the public’s views on other issues raised by the ACMA. 

    Codes of practice are drafted by the broadcasting industry but can only be registered if the ACMA is satisfied they provide appropriate community safeguards. Public submissions made to the consultation will be reviewed by the ACMA and may help inform its considerations for registration. 

    The consultation is open until Sunday, 18 May 2025. You can find more information about making a submission on CRA’s website. The ACMA’s views on the key issues it has raised with CRA in the code review process is available on the ACMA website.

     

    Click on logo above to visit their website.

    Pittwater Community Groups: 


    Sports (plus Social Members)

    Gardens and Environment

    Rural Fire Brigades
    Services - Community Organisations

    Arts and Social

    Mona Vale Residents Association

    Mona Vale Residents Association is a community group encouraging involvement on important matters within the Mona Vale area. Email: mvrasydney@gmail.com


    JP Public Register

    You can find a Justice of the Peace (JP) using the online Public Register. You can search by postcode, name of a JP, day of availability, language spoken and JP registration number. The register lists a JP’s location, availability and telephone number. Please note that JPs are volunteers and may not be available at all times. ​Click here to access the JP Public Register.  NB: There are  3 J.P’s working in Pittwater RSL Sub-Branch office, we work every Monday (10:30am to 15:30)except on public holidays:
    1. Terry Jones J.P.
    2. Robert (Bob) Wood J.P.
    3. Deborah Hendy(Carter) J.P

    Report Hate Crimes

    If you are subjected to hate on social media or online you should keep evidence by taking screen shots of the abuse including usernames, URLs and any other relevant information. You can report the abuse directly to the platform and report in person at any Police Station. If you witness a hate incident or hate crime but are not the victim, you can still make a report to the NSW Police. In an Emergency call Triple Zero (000). If not urgent, you can report online at crimestoppers.com.au or call 1800 333 000 or report in person at any Police Station.