October 1 - 31, 2026: Issue 659

Front Page Issue 659

Week Two October 2026: Issue 659 (Sunday Oct. 25)

Mona Vale Residents Head to Macquarie Street Demanding a Moratorium on Unsafe Development As SSD for 14 storey- 48.75metre Tall Towers in flood zone at Mona Vale progressed

Last Bank Branch North of Mona Vale to Close in November

Council to investigate Protecting Vital Ingleside Wildlife Corridor near Mona Vale Rd. Fauna Bridge

Aquatics Reforms to reduce plastics and microplastics: Environmental Legislation Amendment (Plastic Reduction and Container Recycling) Bill 2026 passes Upper House + Pittwater Councillor's Attempt to Turn the Local Plastic Tide: October 2026 council meeting

Great Koala National Park Legislation Finally passes NSW Parliament

Sydney to Hobart 2026 Entries close with 107 starters confirmed

Park Bench Philosophers Prepare or Pay: Counting the Cost of Climate-fuelled Bushfires - new report's up-to-date figures record bushfires $6 Billion per year cost 

Vale Phil Colman: the Barefoot Aquatic Naturalist

Greens Announce Kristyn Glanville as Candidate For Manly in 2027 NSW State Election

Pictures Turimetta Moods: October 2026 by Joe Mills - New photos from the week ending October 24 added in

____________________________

Week One October 2026: Issue 659 (Sunday Oct. 18)

Profile: Friends of Bongin Bongin Bay

History:  Marie Beuzeville Byles of Palm Beach, Pittwater: Defender of Pittwater's Environment

Encouraging Meeting with Minister Hoenig: Update from Protect Pittwater - Restoring Pittwater Council

Para Surfing 'Irukandjis' Train at URBNSURF Sydney as $100,000 Fundraising Mission Continues!

Australia finishes third on medal table at Ocean Racing World Championships: Local Paddlers Excel

NASA Surfers Win GromSearch Phillip Island: Congratulations Maverick + Locana

RPAYC Youth Sailors Shine at Zhik Youth Sail NSW

Avalon Place Plan Update: Dunbar Park changes: Picnic shelter and Seating Installation Commences + Shared Space

Millions Being Spent to Hold Back the Ocean at Long Reef-Collaroy-Narrabeen via Seawalls

Pictures Turimetta Moods: October 2026 by Joe Mills

NSW RFS ‘Red Fleet Bill’ Passes Parliament

Aquatics Marine Rescue NSW completes 298 missions in September as demand across Greater Sydney hits new high

First batch of illegal e-bikes crushed into scrap metal

Liberals Select Adelaide Cuneo as Candidate for Manly in 2027 Election + Shadow Cabinet: Update

Residents Toast New-Look Community Centre at Aveo's Bayview Gardens by Georgia Tayler

Year 11 founders build MyStreet to help residents understand nearby development

Park Bench Philosophers ACEM Report reveals Australia's health system failing ageing population - NSW Government Releases 'Helping older patients stranded in NSW public hospitals' Report, Commits to Pilot Program for Interim Care

Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2026: Winners Announced - 'Highly Commended' image of Koala Mum Chased by Dog for Australian photographer

Spring's Winged Thing Continues: Bogong Weather Anomaly + Butterflies

DIY Ideas DIY End-of Year Thank You + Christmas Gift Ideas (already!): Cutting Boards

Food A Sugar-Free Halloween 

Profile of the Week Locals Win a Mass of Recognitions at 2026 NSW Master Builders Awards - Including Master Builder of the Year for Lovett Custom Homes

The completion of building a home brings together every trade professional needed to do the job to the highest standard possible, while meeting all the requirements required under the Building Code and Australian law.

A job site may have 20 people working in different areas from the roof to plumbing to tiling to decoration to engineers and architects conferring with the builder on finessing the build, while those keeping up-to-date with the ever evolving requirements of insurance and contracts toil away back in the office.

All these employ skilled and qualified workers and, usually, an apprentice or two.

Although a building company may seem large it is actually the bringing together of many people focussed on their area and working together with one vision. It is 10 small businesses coming together, all employing 5 to 10 people each. 

This underlines the fact that small business is actually big business. 

The Master Builders Awards are among the most recognised and respected construction industry awards programs in Australia. Administered by Master Builders Associations across each state and territory, the awards celebrate excellence in construction in residential, commercial and specialist building categories.

Two new categories were added this year; Passive House and Historical House Restoration. 

These prestigious awards celebrate excellence, innovation, and quality in the NSW building and construction industry. The Excellence in Housing Awards highlight outstanding residential projects, bringing together project home builders, contract builders, apartment constructors, and specialists in additions, alterations, and renovations, to shine a spotlight on the industry's most exceptional achievements.

For builders, developers and construction professionals, winning or being recognised as a finalist in a Master Builders Awards program is a significant industry achievement. It provides independent validation of construction quality, workmanship and project delivery - and carries genuine weight with clients, architects and developers when evaluating a builder's track record.

Judging criteria: All entrants must demonstrate excellence in the following areas:

  • Quality of Construction 
  • Design Challenges 
  • Use of Materials 
  • Value for money 
  • Innovation

The Master Builder of the Year award is widely regarded as the recognition presented by the Master Builders Association at both state and national levels.

While Lovett Custom Homes won this best of the best this year, another Mona Vale company, Beach Houses Australia, and Curl Curl outfit Lawson and Lovell, were both Finalists in the same category.

All winners now advance to the Master Builders Australia National Excellence Awards, which will take place on Friday, 27 November 2026 at The Star Brisbane.

For our final focus area for NSW Small Business Month this October, a celebration of some of the best in an industry we grew up in and which employs thousands of local people and families.

History Coaster's Retreat wharves: Bonnie Doon + Bennetts - Some History
Groyne and causeway and wood-plank wharves - both with shelter sheds

Boonie Doon Wharf at Coasters Retreat is shown as a ‘pier’ on 1922 and 1925 tourist maps – opposite is a ‘jetty’, for 'The Basin'.

This wharf is mainly a commuter wharf and a boat tie-up facility. Locals state Bonnie Doon Wharf was built in 1914 at the western end of the stretch of Coasters by the Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park to provide access for campers and visitors. A discussion of the same certainly took place during an October 1912 inspection of the location.

Bennetts wharf – towards the Soldiers Point and eastern end - was built in 1944 by Alfred Edward and George Burton Bennett, with two lots of 't's', when they acquired some of the land that was sold at Coasters following further subdivisions, prior to the rest being resumed into the Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park.

A few insights into Coasters Retreat's wharves runs this Issue.

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter:

October 2026 - Contents: Play News: Christmas panto and casting call for next year's play; Scotland Island Residents Association: a call for nominations to the committee; Community vehicle drivers needed; Island Café 

Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

SIRA AGM & Island Café: Catherine Park, Scotland Island

Sunday 25 October, 9:30 am - 12:30 pm 

Max Girdler to Be 2027 Bulldogs A-Grade Coach

The Avalon Bulldogs announced Max Girdler as their 2027 A-Grade coach on Thursday (Oct. 22). 

''A massive part of our recent success, Max knows what it means to wear the Bulldogs jersey and what it takes to win.''

With two premierships under our belt, we’re looking to build on that success and make 2027 another huge year at Hitchy!'' the Doggies team said

2025 and 2026 Seasons coach Haig Sare is keen to have more time with his family, but will still be around to support the club in its 2027 Season.

2027 PRE-SEASON — LET’S GET MOVING!
''We’re looking to get the boys together for a few early runs on 3rd, 10th and 12th December to blow out the cobwebs, build some fitness and start getting a feel for our Gold and Bronze sides heading into next season.

Whether you’re a returning player or someone keen to get involved, we’d love to see you down there.

It’s all about getting the boys together early, building some momentum and setting ourselves up for another big year.''

Keep up to date and get in contact via the Avalon Bulldogs website and their Instagram page.

Avalon Bulldogs Celebratory Profile on their 2026 Premiership:


Max during 2025 Season

Sydney Academy of Sport Track Update: asphalt surface on

Roving PON photographer Joe Mills took this photo of the Sydney Academy of Sport athletics track at Narrabeen on Wednesday October 21 which shows the project is advancing.


Over the past few  weeks, the contractor has completed the remaining ground improvement works, continue drainage and civil construction activities and prepared the site for installation of the track asphalt surface. (now in place: see photo above).

Project handover and completion remain forecast for mid-quarter 4 2026, subject to site and weather conditions. 

The project scope includes:  
  • a new World Athletics (WA) compliant synthetic athletics track with moisture resilient track surface
  • new asphalt sub-base
  • drainage and stormwater system upgrades
  • accessibility improvements.

Belrose Rural Fire Brigade celebrates 75th anniversary

NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) members came together last Saturday, October 17, to celebrate Belrose Rural Fire Brigade’s 75th anniversary.


Belrose RFS members in 1979.

RFS Inspector Natalie Roberts joined brigade members and special guests at an event held at the brigade’s station.

“This was a great opportunity to celebrate the brigade’s history and congratulate members past and present for supporting the local community for across more than eight decades,” Inspector Roberts said.

“Belrose Brigade began in the 1950s with a single flatbed truck fitted with 44-gallon drums for water.

“Today, the brigade has more than 170 members, supporting the community in preparing for the threat of bush and grass fires and actively responding to other emergencies, such as motor vehicle accidents, and incidents out of area.”

Inspector Roberts said the brigade had attended some major fires and flood events over the years, including the Blue Mountains fires in 2013, Victoria’s 2009 Black Saturday fires, and the devastating 2019-20 bush fires.

“The brigade has been at the forefront of volunteering and actively participates in operations and training to support their community and develop their skills,” she said.

“I know the community is in safe hands with such a dedicated group of volunteers and I thank current and former members for their commitment and dedication.

“The hard work and professionalism of all RFS members does not go unnoticed and while they do not ask for praise, it is fitting to take this opportunity to acknowledge their contribution to their community.

“We must also thank the family, friends, employers and colleagues of these and all volunteers. We know it takes their support to help our volunteers do what they do to save lives and protect property.”

Hours before the afternoon celebrations, Belrose RFS volunteers  were out helping the community.

''It’s been a busy week for Belrose with multiple storm related jobs. Our brigade has just responded to a tree blocking Mona Vale Rd.'' 


Early 75th Present: Community Spirit in Action — A Big Thank You to Dematic and Edcon Steel!

Days before Belrose shared:

As we head into what promises to be a challenging bushfire season, we are delighted to share some fantastic news about an upgrade to our station that will make a real difference to how we operate.

Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of two great local companies, the Belrose Rural Fire Brigade has taken delivery of purpose-built fire hose storage racks and pallet storage racking that has transformed our equipment storage — and our operational readiness.

Dematic, whose facility neighbours bushland within our operational area, stepped up in a remarkable way — fabricating and delivering the entire racking system free of charge as an act of neighbourly goodwill. For a volunteer brigade, that kind of support is simply invaluable.

Edcon Steel — and in particular Managing Director Hugh Edmunds — generously provided the steel mesh shelving for the racks at no cost to the Brigade. The quality of the finished product speaks for itself.

Before this project, our firefighting hoses, emergency pumps and rescue equipment were stored on the floor or in an assortment of donated and repurposed shelving that had done its best over many years. That's all changed. Our gear is now properly stored, immediately accessible, and ready to go when we need it most.

This is what community looks like. We are proud to have neighbours like Dematic and Edcon Steel, and deeply grateful for their support of our volunteer brigade.

🙏 Thank you both — from every one of our volunteers.


One example of Belrose RFS' new shelving. Photo: Belrose RFS

Bilgola Water Mains Problems

On Thursday October 22 a watermain burst in the Serpentine at Bilgola again, leading to a few hours of no water for those at Bilgola and all points north of there.

Businesses running morning coffee points were left wondering when they could serve customers until Sydney Water updated its notification to let customers know they should have water restored by 9am.

A similar incident On January 12 2025, during the Bilgola Ocean Swims, saw a huge amount of water pouring down the hill onto the beach and carrying dirt out into the ocean.

The burst watermain at Bilgola on Sunday January 12. Photo: A J Guesdon/PON

On May 2nd 2024 a waterpipe burst on the corner of Bellevue Avenue and Avalon Parade, flooding the shopping area in the village and carrying a plume of white and yellow sand and other matter all the way down Careel Creek and into Careel Bay. 

On May 13 2014 a fire truck was trapped in a sink hole and at least five homes were damaged after a burst water main again erupted at Bilgola.

Residents woke up to a loud sound, similar to a waterfall. It was a strong landslip that caused a mudslide, broke windows and left mud, rocks and debris in several homes. The water supply to the region had to be turned off progressively to avoid pressure problems.

The fire truck that rushed to the aid of residents became stuck in a sinkhole on the road that was caused by the water damage.

This raised serious questions about the stability of the region and authorities decided to evacuate houses which suffered the most damage. The fire truck was later lifted using a crane and winches while residents stayed at alternate accommodations for several nights.

The stability of the hillside continued to be evaluated by geotechnical experts while cleaners and assessors attended to the homes.

According to Sydney Water, a minor defect in the protective coating of the pipe led to the collapse. The corroded section, found by investigators, measured just 20cm by 10cm. Due to the coating defect, the surrounding soil caused corrosion and resulted in a section breaking away.

While residents cannot do much about burst water mains and the ageing infrastructure on the Barrenjoey Peninsula (some of these pipes went in in the 1930's), it is important to remember that burst water pipes can cause similar damage, though on a smaller scale.

Using licensed plumbers, to detect and repair small leaks can help avoid further damage and an urgent call for an emergency services.

As we may experience a wetter Summer - in this land of flooding rains - indicators you may have a leak are:
  • Damp or discoloured carpets, walls or floorboards.
  • Water stains on ceilings.
  • Wet patches in the garden, portions of grass growing faster or looking greener.
  • Unstable concrete or brick paving.
  • Spinning water meter when there are no running taps.
Pressure testing or acoustic leak detection tests can help locate leaks in concealed or underground pipes. If a weakness or corrosion is detected in time, patching and relining might be possible for small defects. For larger defects or bursts, the section of the pipe might have to be replaced.

Lack of maintenance is the most common cause for burst pipes. Old pipes rust and weaken over time, and if not repaired in time, breakages will occur. 

The other major cause is pipes getting cut or drilled during yard work, which usually happens when the pipe has not been buried at the recommended and required depth.

If a break occurs, serious damage can be caused to your electrical wiring. If left untreated for too long, it could compromise the integrity of your home structure.

October 22 2026 Notice  - burst water main at Bilgola again

Renewing the water main on Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon

In its latest update (October 23) Sydney Water confirmed it had finished installing the new water main and it is now servicing the community. They're now working to decommission the final section of the old water main.

Next week, they will continue to work at the Avalon Parade and Old Barrenjoey Road intersection from Monday night to Friday morning. Their standard night work hours are 8 pm to 5 am. You may hear noise from excavators, vacuum (sucker) trucks and light vehicles. Saw cutting and jackhammering will finish by midnight on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday nights.

On the evening of Tuesday 27 October, their noisiest work (saw cutting and jackhammering) may continue to 5 am. There will also be a small, planned water interruption during that shift. If you are affected, you would have received a notification with more information. 

The works are due to be completed by November 30 2026.

You can contact their community engagement team on 1800 943 119. For Sydney Water repairs or faults, please call 13 20 90 (24 hours).

Sydney Water also confirmed they are working with the council to plan permanent restoration of the road and footpaths.

Young Freshwater man turning his life around by giving back:  website Builds Up for Grabs for Charities - Businesses

Nick Finlayson's son Tomas is stepping up to do what he can for his community.

Not long ago Tomas was making choices he isn't proud of. Right now he's turning his life around, and he's doing it by living a new set of values every day: honesty, owning it, giving back, earning trust and showing up.

He's started a small web design business, BuildIT, and the first thing he's doing with it is giving back. 

He'll design and build free websites for 5 local businesses, and for any peninsula charity, whatever they do. All he asks in return is an honest word if they think he's done a good job.

This is Tomas earning trust one honest job at a time, and the community can really help him live those values. 

He's asked if Pittwater Online News would help him reach the businesses and charities who need it. So, please have a chat to him if your organisation or charity needs to get online.

His site is www.buildit.net.au, and he's on tomas@buildit.net.au
Well done Tomas - we're proud of you and stoked you've decided going in the other direction.

A Finlayson graphic on what's on offer:

Draft NSW coastal management manual: Have your say

The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water is seeking feedback on the draft NSW coastal management manual.

Consultation period: 12th October 2026 - 30th October 2026

What’s this about?

The NSW Government is seeking feedback on a draft NSW coastal management manual. The current manual was published in 2018 and provides the requirements and guidance used to prepare, certify, implement and review coastal management programs across New South Wales. The draft manual responds to recommendations from the NSW Audit Office's Coastal management performance audit (2025) and feedback from councils, public authorities and coastal practitioners.

The proposed changes aim to:

  • make the manual easier to use
  • provide clearer requirements and practical guidance
  • improve the processes for preparing and certifying coastal management programs. 

The draft manual does not amend the Coastal Management Act 2016 or fundamentally change the statutory process for preparing and certifying coastal management programs. Existing certified programs will remain valid.

Following consultation, we will review the feedback and use it to finalise the draft manual. The updated manual will then be considered by the Minister for the Environment. If approved, once published in the NSW Government Gazette, the updated manual will replace the current manual and commence in late 2026.

NSW coastal management manual

Date: 12 Oct 2026 - PDF 22.29 MB / Pages 90 download here

Mandatory requirements and guidance for a coastal management program

The draft manual sets out mandatory requirements and supporting guidance for preparing, adopting, implementing, reviewing and amending coastal management programs under the Coastal Management Act 2016.

Proposed changes to the NSW coastal management manual consultation summary (PDF 1.59 MB / Pages 10)

This document summarises the main proposed changes and explains how they respond to recommendations from the NSW Audit Office and feedback from councils, government agencies and coastal practitioners. 

The proposed changes aim to make the manual easier to use, provide clearer requirements and practical guidance, and improve the processes for preparing and certifying coastal management programs. The draft manual also supports a more proportionate and risk-based approach to coastal management planning, stronger implementation and review, and improved recognition of Aboriginal cultural values, knowledge and participation.

We are particularly interested in whether the draft manual:

  • clearly identifies mandatory requirements
  • provides practical guidance
  • improves coastal management program preparation and certification
  • supports a proportionate and risk-based approach
  • provides clearer expectations for implementation and review
  • is easier to navigate and use than the current manual
  • allows for a simple transition for existing and in-train CMPs
  • could create any unintended practical consequences.

We invite councils, coastal practitioners, government agencies, community organisations and interested members of the public to review the draft manual and provide feedback. Your feedback will help inform the final manual before it is considered by the Minister for the Environment.

Have your say

Have your say by 11:59 pm Friday 30 October 2026.

There is one way to submit your feedback. - Online

Draft coastal management manual online feedback form

Complete this short survey to provide feedback on the draft coastal management manual and help identify any improvements needed before it is finalised.

Contact us

Marine, Coast, Estuary and Flood team - Email: coastandestuary@dcceew.nsw.gov.au

Local Government Regulation Review: Have Your Say

The Office of Local Government is undertaking a statutory review of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 and is seeking your feedback.

Consultation period: 9th October 2026 - 6th November 2026

What’s this about?
The Office of Local Government (OLG) is undertaking a statutory review of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 (LG Regulation), which will be automatically repealed on 1 September 2027 unless remade before then.

OLG will complete the review in stages and is proposing to split the LG Regulation into three standalone instruments being:
  1. Local Government (Elections) Regulation
  2. Local Government (Approvals and Orders) Regulation, and 
  3. Local Government (Council Governance and Operations) Regulation.
The first stage of the LG Regulation statutory review was the proposal to remake the election provisions of the regulation into a standalone LG Elections Regulation. This proposal was circulated for public consultation through a Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS) in November 2025, marking the first step in the review process.

This RIS represents the second and final stage of consultation of the LG Regulation review and seeks feedback on the proposal to remake the remaining provisions of the LG Regulation – approvals and orders provisions, and council governance and operations provisions – into two distinct standalone regulations.

The aim is to ensure that it is the best option available to deliver a responsive and accessible regulatory framework that provides clear and effective policy guidance on the approvals and orders, and council governance and operations for local government. 

OLG is seeking feedback from councils, other stakeholders and the wider community on the proposed regulatory framework outlined in the RIS.

Have your say
Have your say by 5pm (AEDT), Friday 6 November 2026
You can have your say in a number of ways. 

Postal Address: Local Government (General) Regulation Review, Sector Policy and Frameworks, Office of Local Government, Locked Bag 3015, Nowra NSW 2541
Complete the feedback form in Word, print it and send it to the postal address provided.

Download and complete the feedback in Word, then attach it to your email.

Online
9 October 2026 to 6 November 2026
Complete the online feedback form at Local Government (General) Regulation Review 

Visit Local Government (General) Regulation Review for clear instruction on how to submit your feedback. 

Domestic Gas Reservation Bill 2026: update

The Domestic Gas Reservation Bill 2026, along with the Domestic Gas Reservation Levy Bill 2026 and related bills, was referred to the Senate Economics Legislation Committee on October 15. 

Submissions Close: 26 October 2026
Reporting Date: 11 November 2026

Overview of the Scheme:
  • Establishes Australia's first national Domestic Gas Reservation Scheme to reserve up to 20 per cent of gas exports for the domestic market to help lower prices for households and manufacturing.
  • Planned to commence on 1 January 2027, with export licence requirements and the levy taking effect from 1 January 2028.
You can track updates and make or view submissions via the Australian Parliament House Inquiry Page

Further background information in September 2026 Pittwater Online report:

Call-Out for Iconic Trees

The council is inviting the community to nominate remarkable public trees for inclusion on the new Iconic Tree Register, with nominations opening 25 September 2026.

The register will recognise significant public trees that contribute to the area’s natural beauty, biodiversity, history and sense of place.

Nominated trees must meet one or more criteria, including visual, ecological, historical,  botanic or social significance.

Most public native and exotic trees are eligible, including those exempt for removal under council or State Government controls if they demonstrate they meet the criteria.

The council stated it will launch the official Iconic Tree Register platform in January 2027, after the first nominations have been assessed. The interactive platform will contain images, locations and informative details of each tree.

A 'panel with expertise in biodiversity, arboriculture, heritage and landscape architecture will assess nominations against the Iconic Tree Register criteria' according to the council statement.

The first intake will allow approximately 30 eligible trees to be recommended for inclusion, with future assessment rounds happening on a regular basis.

Listed trees will be managed under the council’s ''Tree Management Policy'' and monitored for health and condition.

For more information and to nominate, visit the council webpage.

A magnificent Grey Gum (E. punctata) example on the hill heading down Riviera Avenue with a Spotted Gum (Eucalyptus maculata) growing alongside it. Pic: AJG/PON

Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week

Sophie 

4yo Mini Smooth Dachshund

Sophie is a delightful affectionate little girl who is social with other small dogs. She is a pleasure to have around and is happy to say hello to strangers and get lots of pats and cuddles. She seems to like older children as well. She can climb puppy fencing. She is very food motivated, true to her breed and so easy to train. She suits PT hours and apartment living. She is a Mini Dachshund Smooth and weighs 5.2kg. She is desexed , fully vaccinated, heartworm free and chipped. Her adoption cost is $800. 

Chloe 

4yo French Bulldog

Chloe is a sweet but shy little Frenchie who according to the pound has had many, many homes in the past. Along the way apparently, she has been disrespected by children so is looking for an adult home. We have only seen has as a happy friendly little girl. She is social with other small dogs. Being a typical Frenchie, she loves her food and it is best to feed her away from other dogs. The pound report she is good with cats. She is looking for a family who understand they need to take things slowly with her and let her confidence grow and learn a stable home life. Unlike most Frenchies we come across, her airways and spine are in good condition and she has no medical issues. She has a smooth coat and weighs 10.8kg. She suits an adult home with rescue experience, FT hours and apartment environment. She is desexed , fully vaccinated, heartworm free and chipped. Her adoption cost is $800.  

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

Avalon Preservation Association AGM 2026

The Avalon Preservation Association (APA) wishes to advise residents of our upcoming AGM and to invite you to attend to hear our engaging guest speaker, Professor Peter Davies, who will speak on the very appropriate and timely topic, Where have all the trees gone? The cumulative impact of suburban redevelopment. 

The details are below, and we attach a brief background information on Professor Davies and the topic. APA hopes you can attend. If so, please rsvp to avalonpreservationa@gmail.com 
  • Date: Thursday 12 November 2026 from 7.00pm sharp
  • Venue: Bangalley Room, Avalon Beach Surf Life Saving Club
  • Speaker: Professor Peter Davies, Macquarie University

Better Together Grants: Council

Community organisations can apply for a share of $300,000 per year in funding through council’s new 'Better Together Delivery Grants Program', designed to support projects and services that address one of 3 identified priority areas from Better Together 2040. 

The council states it has designed the program to support 3 local incorporated not for profit organisations in grants of up to $100,000 each year for a period of three years. 

Each organisation will address one of the priority areas of preventing and responding to family and domestic violence, supporting the mental health and wellbeing young people aged 12-24 years and responding to people experiencing homelessness.

Eligible organisations are encouraged to review the program guidelines and prepare their applications ahead of the opening date.

Applications for Round One of the Better Together Delivery Grants Program opened on 17 September 2026 and close 29 October 2026, 3pm.

For more information about eligibility, funding criteria and how to apply, visit the council's webpage for the same.

Manly Warringah District Junior Rugby League Girls Tackle 2027 EOI

Any girls interested in playing tackle in 2027 season? 

Register your interest (Expression of Interest) through the form -  HERE

Discover Sailing Day Resources Now Available

With Discover Sailing Month set to return this November, Australian Sailing states now is the time for clubs and Discover Sailing Centres to start planning their Discover Sailing Day events.

Australian Sailing will be actively promoting Discover Sailing Month throughout November; however, Discover Sailing Days can be delivered at any time of the year, giving clubs the flexibility to schedule events when it best suits their needs.

To support promotion, a brand-new suite of marketing resources is now available, designed to make it easier to create engaging, consistent and effective materials across all channels, including:
  • Editable Canva templates (posters, flyers, social media tiles and story templates)
  • Promotional video
  • Teardrop banners
  • Marketing guides and checklists

 

Click on logo above to visit their website.

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  June 2025  July 2025  August 2025  September 2025  October 2025  November 2025  December 2025

January 2026  February 2026  March 2026  April 2026  May 2026  June 2026  July 2026  August 2026  September 2026  October 2026

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

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


Report Hate Crimes

Recent reports to the news service would indicate this reminder is needed at present.

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.

When not on social media and when there is no crime committed, but an action is still motivated by hate, prejudice or bias, it is known as a hate incident. Both hate crimes and hate incidents are taken very seriously by the NSW Police.

When you report hate that you witness or experience, you become part of a larger movement to remove it from our society.

What you can expect from the NSW Police Force:
  • Every report is taken seriously by the NSW Police Force.
  • You can expect a respectful and straightforward experience.
  • A translator will be used if required.
  • When you report to the police, they will request your details. You can choose not to provide these details at the time of reporting however, this will likely affect how police can proceed with an investigation.
  • Support services or contact with an appropriate liaison officer will be offered.
  • You will be kept informed of what happens next, your rights and the criminal process (if someone was able to be charged).
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.  
For more information, visit  www.police.nsw.gov.au/crime/hate_crimes

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. 

There are  2 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. Deborah Hendy(Carter) J.P

Speed humps on McCarrs Creek Rd: share 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.  Simply enter:
  1. The position via GPS or road and suburb
  2. The date
  3. The animal

Australian Couta Boat Championship titles

Avalon Sailing Club hosted the 2026 Australian Couta Boat Championships last weekend. A fleet of 16 Coutas, including a good number from Melbourne, saw over 100 sailors competing on Friday October 16 through Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 on Pittwater.

There were races around laid marks in "The Pond" north of Scotland Island on Friday and Saturday, with a passage race around Lion and Scotland Islands on Sunday.

The club said sailors had champagne conditions across the championships and great catch-ups afterwards at the Avalon Sailing Clubhouse.

ASC shared the results on Monday:
''Congratulations to Sorento Sailing Club's Betty with three "bullets" - to take out the Australian Couta Boat Championship title, and Avalon's very own Tenacity who won the event on Handicap with two "bullets".

Wattle's all female crew came 3rd on Handicap.''

Congratulations!
Some ASC pics of the winners and sailing:

Palm Beach Sailing Club's Beware the Bullets Regatta 2026

21–22 November 2026. Two days of catamaran racing on Pittwater.
Hosted by Palm Beach Sailing Club, 1 Iluka Road, Palm Beach NSW 2108. Boats launch from Sand Point, on the Pittwater side of Palm Beach.

NOR, details and enter online at: pbsc.org.au/bullets

The name for the regatta 'Beware The Bullets' stems from the sailing course area near Barrenjoey Headland. The sand spit connecting it to the mainland allows the traditional nor-east sea breeze to blow over the sand spit, but also bend around the headland. At times there are freak gusts that bounce down onto the water in short bursts that can catch the sailors by surprise. These unexpected gusts are called 'Bullets'. When sailing close to Barrenjoey Headland you therefore need to be careful or 'beware of the bullets'. 

Avalon Market Day Returns November 28

The Avalon Business Collective is looking for local artisans from across the area to join their list of high quality artisan stallholders for their upcoming Avalon Market Day event.

The Avalon Business Collective, a group of local businesses from Palmy, Avalon, Clareville and Whale Beach. You may know them from their previous events The Deep North, Avalon Edit and Winter Solstice. 

''If you’re a local business looking to get involved in making Avalon Market Day come to life, this is a great time to consider joining the ABC. Membership engages you with our local business community, promotes your business and allows you access to opportunities like events, grants, partnerships, business support and more. Plus…it’s a lot of fun!


P:S: members get FREE stalls.'' the Collective states

Saturday 28th November has been selected for the return of the Avalon Market Day.

Stallholders must be local (the closer the better) with handmade, second-hand or artisanal products. The new Avalon Market Day is curated and intentional to support local small businesses.

Along with a great line-up of stalls the day will include a laneway and market day festival with a huge line up of DJ’s across three stages featuring some of Australia’s finest DJ’s and local talent. 
'This free event held in three laneways around Avalon will be a feast of music, food and curated local market stalls.' the Avalon Business Collective states

The Program so far is:
  • Market stalls begin at 9am
  • Music from 2pm-9pm
  • After party at Bar Elvina 9pm-12am
Contact them now with your email address to receive a stallholder application: hello@avalonbusinesscollective.com

Avalon Beach SLSC: Bronze - SRC Courses

Ready for a new challenge? Join Avalon Beach SLSC for the upcoming Bronze Medallion course or Surf Rescue Certificate and become a surf life saver!

By signing up to the course and patrolling, you'll learn how to save lives and other valuable new skills, make lifelong friends by the sea and step up to a new challenge.

There is a place for everyone at Avalon Beach SLSC.

Club benefits include access to the surf club, amenities & hot showers, NBC parking permit (Council eligibility criteria applies), substantial discounts on CrossFit membership & use of club gym, opportunity to compete in various beach and surf competitions and continue advancing your lifesaving skillsets and networks.

🏁 BM starts Sunday 25 October | SRC starts Sunday 1 November

🏊 Prerequisites: BM, swim 400m in under 9 minutes; SRC, swim 200m in under 5 minutes

***If you would like to meet our trainers prior to the courses and join us swimming laps in local ocean rockpools, please get in touch - we'd love to meet you and grow your swimming skills and confidence***

Register your expression of interest today via the links below:

Bronze Medallion: www.trybooking.com/here

Surf Rescue Certificate​: www.trybooking.com/here

Sargood Classic 2026 

Join us at Collaroy Beach on Saturday, 7th November for an epic afternoon of para surfing and community with Sargood on Collaroy. 

Whether you’re catching waves, assisting as water support, or cheering from the sand, mark your calendars for an afternoon packed with ocean therapy, community vibes, and great surfing.
  • 📍 Location: Collaroy Beach
  • 🌊2:00 PM: Surf’s Up (Heats kick off)
  • 🏆 4:00 PM: Presso & food at Sargood
  • 🎁 Prizes proudly provided by Wicks Surf
  • 👉 Sign up now via LiveHeats to secure your heat spot: https://tr.ee/NBPSBxSARGOOD2026 
See you on the sand!

Northern Beaches Para Surfer BC

Manly's new pickleball club

A heritage building at North Head Sanctuary has a new life. Building 17 is now Love Pickle Club Manly, a community sports and social venue that opened to the public on 10 October 2026, World Pickleball Day.

Three indoor courts are open now, and eight outdoor courts will be completed in December 2026, set among the bushland and sandstone of North Head. The club brings people back into one of Manly's most historic sites to play, meet and spend time together.

A venue for events and functions
Building 17 is available now for corporate events, team building, birthdays and private functions, offering groups a heritage setting and an activity guests of any fitness level can join.

Act One: open now
The original Heritage Gymnasium has been transformed into pickleball heaven:  three championship-size Laykold indoor courts, two dinking and ball-machine zones, the Pro Shop, a chill-out zone for a quiet drink, and a mezzanine lounge for socialising and watching your last game back on the big screen.

Act Two: December 2026
Eight premium outdoor courts under the North Head sky, plus a social deck, beer garden and tournament festival zone. That makes eleven courts in total, indoor and out: the ultimate social pickleball club, and you can be part of it from day one.

"Building 17 has stood on North Head for generations. We wanted to give it a new purpose that the whole community can share, and pickleball does exactly that.

 On opening day, we had players of every age on court together, which is what this  place is about," said Jon Trouillet, Operations Manager.

A sport anyone can pick up
Pickleball is often called the fastest-growing sport in the world. It combines elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis on a smaller court with a paddle and a light plastic ball. Beginners can learn the basics in a single session, and the game is easy on the body, so grandparents, parents and teenagers can play on the same court.

Love Pickle Club Manly runs weekly women's, men's and mixed leagues, along with social play for newcomers.

Built with the community
The club is working with local groups to bring people of all ages onto the courts, including school groups, aged care facilities and the Northern Beaches Pickleball Club.

Fast facts
  • Venue: Love Pickle Club Manly, Building 17, North Head Sanctuary, Manly NSW
  • Courts: 3 indoor (open now) and 8 outdoor (to be completed December 2026)
  • Opened: 10 October 2026, World Pickleball Day
  • Programs: corporate events, team building, birthdays and private functions; weekly women's, men's and mixed leagues; social play
  • Bookings: download the Love Pickle Club app to book a court or become a member. 
More information at www.lovepickleclub.com.au

Review of the water regulatory and pricing framework for data centres: Update

IPART stated on Monday October 19 they have published submissions to the draft Terms of Reference.

The NSW Government issued IPART a draft Terms of Reference to review the water regulatory and pricing framework for data centres.

IPART sought feedback from the community on the draft Terms of Reference. Consultation closed on Friday, 2 October 2026. They received 65 written submissions from community members, data centre owners and operators, developers, water utilities and other water service providers.

''We thank everyone who provided feedback. Submissions are now available to view on our website.

Our review will commence once IPART receives a finalised Terms of Reference from the NSW Government.'' IPART stated


Celebrate the Diversity of Pollinators: Art + Photography Comp. for Students

Australian Pollinator Week runs from 7–15 November and celebrates Australia’s diverse pollinators and highlights the importance of engaging young people in learning about pollinators. Schools are encouraged to celebrate and support pollinator health.

Australian Pollinator Week was founded by Dr Megan Halcroft, of Bees Business, in November 2015. It followed on from a community project called “Bee Aware of Your Native Bees”, which was funded by Western Sydney University and the Environmental Trust.

Communities in the northern hemisphere have been celebrating the importance of pollinators since June 2007, however, the seasonal differences in the southern hemisphere has restricted bilateral celebrations.

Australian Pollinator Week acknowledges our important and unique insect pollinators during Australia’s southern Spring (November). It is a designated week when communities, businesses and organisations can come together to raise awareness of the importance of pollinators and support their needs.

Through group activities, community members can learn together as they help to support pollinators. By engaging communities in schools, retirement villages, art groups, gardening clubs, community gardens, local council areas, Landcare groups and neighbourhoods we can increase awareness and act on our increased knowledge.

School Pollinator Art Competition

The School Pollinator Art Competition invites students across Australia to celebrate pollinators through art.

Students can submit original artworks in any medium, including drawing, painting, digital, collage or mixed media. Prizes will be awarded for the best artwork inspired by pollinators.

All entries will be judged by the Wheen Bee Foundation.

The competition is proudly sponsored by the Centre for Bee Education.

The School Pollinator Art Competition runs alongside the popular Pollinator Photography Competition and provides an accessible way for school-aged students to learn about pollinators. Find out more about the Pollinator Photography Competition here. 

The 2026 School Pollinator Art Competition is now open and entries will close Sunday 25 October at 5pm AEDT.

Prizes

Primary School Winner

  • Individual prize: A Bees Are Amazing gift hamper and certificate valued at more than $100
  • Teacher prize: A $500 Centre for Bee Education voucher, which can be given to a teacher of the winner’s choice.  

Secondary School Winner

  • Individual prize: A Bees Are Amazing gift hamper and certificate valued at more than $100
  • Teacher prize: A $500 Centre for Bee Education voucher, which can be given to a teacher of the winner’s choice.

Find out more and enter here

Join the School Pollinator Art Webinar

Join Amelie Ecology for a special webinar celebrating pollinators, art and this year’s School Pollinator Art Competition.

Students will learn more about Australia’s pollinators and the habitats they need, with artwork from this year’s competition featured throughout the session.

The Primary and Secondary School competition winners will also be announced live during the webinar.

Webinar Details:

Tuesday, 10 November 2026, 10am AEDT - Online

Registration is free. Register here

Example of prior art work: Bee on Honeycomb. Steve N. Year 2, NSW

Pollinator Photography Competition

The Pollinator Photography Competition encourages everyone to get out and capture images of bees and other pollinators in their local environment, whether it’s in a garden, park, school, on a nature strip or on a farm.

The competition will award prizes to the best pictures of bees and other pollinators taken in Australia as judged by the Australian Pollinator Week Pollinator Photography Competition Judging Panel.

The Pollinator Photography Competition runs alongside the School Pollinator Art Competition providing an accessible way for school-aged students to learn about pollinators. Find out more about the School Pollinator Art Competition here. 

The Competition will close Sunday 25 October at 5pm AEDT.

Prizes

  • First place wins $1500 
  • Second place wins $750
  • Third place wins $500 
  • People’s Choice wins $750
  • Video Category winner wins $750

Winners will be announced in the Pollinator Photography Webinar during Australian Pollinator Week on Thursday, 12 November at 7.30pm AEDT.

Find out more and enter here.

Pollinator Photography Webinar

Join a panel of experienced photographers as they share practical tips for capturing Australia’s pollinators and the stories behind some of their favourite images.

Learn how they approach photographing bees and other insects, including where and when to shoot, equipment and camera settings, and what makes a great pollinator photograph. There will also be an opportunity to ask the panel photography questions.

The webinar will also reveal the 2026 Pollinator Photography Competition winners, including the winning photographs and the inaugural Video Category winner.

Webinar Details:

Thu, 12 Nov, 7:30pm – 8:30pm AEDT, via Zoom Online

Registration is free. Register here

Germany, Belgium, France named as destinations for the 2027 Premier’s Anzac Memorial Scholarship tour: Teacher Applications Call Out

On Thursday October 15 NSW Premier Chris Minns and Minister for Veterans David Harris announced the 2027 Premier’s Anzac Memorial Scholarship study tour will travel to Germany, Belgium and France, and called for teacher applications to accompany students on the trip.

The announcement follows the return of the 2026 study tour which saw 18 students tour Greece and Crete.

The two-week tour included participation in commemorations, visits to museums, war memorials and significant historical and cultural sites coinciding with the 85th Anniversary of the Greece and Crete campaigns in 1941.

See: SOUDA BAY WAR CEMETERY by George Repin AM, Pittwater Online News, Issue 147

In 2027, three teachers will join up to 18 students from around NSW, who will be given a unique opportunity to deepen their understanding of Australia’s military service and sacrifice during the First and Second World Wars.

Key locations on the tour include the Reichstag in Berlin, the Nuremburg Rally Grounds, the Normandy D-Day landing beaches in France, as well as 1917 battlefields on the Western Front, and the Menin Gate Memorial in Belgium, which marks its centenary in 2027.

Through visits to these historically significant sites students will gain a greater appreciation of Australia's wartime experience and reflect on the enduring legacy of those who served.

NSW teachers of Stage 5 History and/or Stage 6 Modern History are encouraged to apply for this unique professional development opportunity to enrich their understanding and teaching of Australian wartime history. 

The 2027 tour will take place in the Term 3 school holidays, and applications for the role of Accompanying Teachers close on 23 November 2026.

Student applications for those in Year 10 or 11 and studying History or Modern History in 2027 are expected to open in February 2027. Students can register their interest here: www.surveymonkey.com/r/BFXMB5B

NSW Premier, the Hon. Chris Minns, said:
“Travelling to Germany, France and Belgium in 2027 will give teachers and students a unique opportunity to commemorate the Australians who served in Europe during the Second World War.

“By visiting places of historical significance, students will deepen their understanding of the challenges, sacrifices and legacy of those who served their nation abroad.”

NSW Minister for Veterans, the Hon. David Harris, said:

“The Premier’s Anzac Memorial Scholarship is a unique opportunity for NSW History teachers and students to travel to these significant sites in Australia’s Military History.

“Students and teachers will travel with a military historian and hear stories of those who served and sacrificed their lives in these campaigns during the Second World War.

“I highly recommend that teachers and students take the chance to apply for this once in a lifetime opportunity ensuring the legacy of our Second World War veterans is preserved.”

2026 PAMS Accompanying Teacher, Hans Mayerhoder, from Newtown High School of the Performing Arts teacher said:

“The PAMS tour has been an extraordinary and unique teaching experience. Being in the field and experiencing history rather than simply studying it has changed the way I understand the 1941 Greece and Crete campaigns. My understanding of the campaigns, commemoration and historical investigation has developed in ways that I know I will draw on throughout my teaching career.

“There is something very special about spending two weeks surrounded by students and teachers who share such a genuine fascination with history. I had little idea what to expect before applying, but I am so glad I didn’t let that uncertainty deter me. The PAMS experience has reminded me why I love teaching history, and I would encourage any teacher with a passion for the subject to apply.”

2026 PAMS Accompanying Teacher, Emily Shanahan, from Scots All Saints College, Bathurst said:

“For a History teacher, this is incredibly valuable professional learning. I will return to my classroom with a much deeper understanding of Australia’s experience in Greece and Crete, but also with new ways of approaching historical evidence, interpretation and commemoration with students. PAMS has reminded me that some of the richest historical learning occurs when we have the opportunity to question, discuss and reconsider what we thought we knew.

“The care that goes into creating this experience is also exceptional. The program is incredibly well organised, and both teachers and scholars are supported throughout by people who are genuinely invested in their learning, wellbeing and experience. That allows you to immerse yourself completely in the opportunity: to ask questions, engage with experts, learn from the places you visit and enjoy the company of an extraordinary group of young historians.

“PAMS has been intellectually challenging, enormously enjoyable and genuinely renewing as a teacher. I will return home with new knowledge, new questions and an enormous collection of stories and experiences to take back into the classroom. I would encourage any teacher with a passion for History to apply. Opportunities for professional learning of this depth and quality are exceptionally rare.”

Police-Firies Coffee with  Warriewood: November 27


Narrabeen Girls High School and Narrabeen Boys High School 50 Years Reunion

It has been 50 years since Narrabeen Girls High School and Narrabeen Boys High School became Cromer High and Narrabeen High co-ed schools. This November a Reunion is taking place. Details are:

50 YEARS ON NARRABEEN & CROMER REUNION WEEKEND

Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 November 2026

Fifty years later, it is time to reconnect with the people who shared an important chapter in our school years.

This reunion celebrates the cohort who began Year 7 in 1971 and were in Year 10 in 1974, together with former teachers and staff.

Everyone from our year is warmly welcome, whether you continued at Narrabeen High, transferred to the newly opened Cromer High, or left Narrabeen Boys’ or Narrabeen Girls’ before completing school.

Saturday 21 November
Main Reunion Celebration
At: Pittwater RSL, Mona Vale

Sunday 22 November
Relaxed Reunion Catch-Up
At: The Sands Hotel, Narrabeen

Choose whichever gathering suits you best, or make a weekend of it and join us for both.

Booking and payment details for Saturday will be available shortly.

For reunion news and updates, join our Facebook group:

Please share this invitation with former classmates, teachers and staff who may enjoy reconnecting.

Let’s celebrate the friendships, memories and journeys that began all those years ago.

Enquiries:
Jeffrey Quinn, Reunion Organising Crew Member

Aerial view looking south over Warriewood, Turimetta Beach and Narrabeen Headland, Northern Beaches (1976) Credit: National Archives of Australia Via: retrosydney. This aerial view from December 1976 

Have your say on the independent evaluation of Australia’s Disability Strategy

An independent evaluation of Australia’s Disability Strategy is underway. People with disability, families, carers and kin are invited to share their experiences and help inform implementation for the future.

People with disability, families, carers and organisations are invited to share their experiences as part of the independent evaluation of Australia's Disability Strategy 2021-2031. 

The evaluation is looking at whether Australia is becoming more accessible and inclusive for people with disability. It will also look at what has changed since the Strategy began in 2021. 

You do not need to know about Australia's Disability Strategy to share your views. The evaluation wants to hear about your experiences and what could work better. 

The evaluation will look at: 
  • what organisations and services are doing to be more accessible and inclusive 
  • what has changed for people with disability over the past 5 years. 
You can share your views in different ways, including: 
  • Survey  
  • Focus groups/consultations  
  • Share Your Experience online form  
  • Stakeholder interviews/discussion groups 
The online form will allow people to share their views in different ways, including text, audio, video and images. 

Taking part is your choice. 

Consultation is open now, to 6 November 2026. 

To find out more about the evaluation and how to participate, visit the evaluation website: Evaluation of Australia’s Disability Strategy

veterans’ Community Grants NSW

The 2026 Veterans Community Grants program opened Monday September 7. The amount of funding available to individuals and non-for-profit organisations in NSW has been increased to $205,000 from $100,000 in 2025.

For the first time the program also introduces a new Infrastructure and Equipment category to support organisations to improve facilities and equipment that supports veterans and their families, including minor building repairs, equipment upgrades, lighting improvements, storage solutions, marquees and Automated External Defibrillators.

Eligible organisations can apply for grants of up to $10,000 for the Infrastructure and Equipment category.

Up to $3,000 in funding is available for the other three categories including local history heritage and education projects, public commemorative events and commemorative spaces and activities that provide support to members of the NSW Veteran community.

Last year’s grant round provided funding to 70 projects dedicated to commemorating and educating NSW communities about the service and sacrifices of current and former servicemen and servicewomen.

Successful projects to receive funding included an upgrade to the Rocky Hill Memorial Museum Firearms and Weapon Display, an archery program to assist the wellbeing of veterans and the creation of a school Anzac mural.

Educational institutions, ex-service organisations, community groups, local government associations, museums, historical societies and individuals are encouraged to apply for a grant.

The 2026 grant round closes at 5pm on Wednesday 11 November 2026.

More information and details on how to apply are available here: www.veterans.nsw.gov.au/VCGP

Marine Rescue Broken Bay Christmas Raffle

Hopefully you will never need us, but help us to be there if you do! 

As many of you know, we are manned 100% by volunteers and our Unit relies on fundraising throughout the year to keep our support to boaters running.  Through generous donations we have 2 rescue capable boats but they need maintenance and fuel to remain on the water.  We rely heavily on your generous support so we can continue to support our community in need. 

So this year we are starting early, and it looks to be a bumper festive season with some amazing donations for our local community supporters.

Get your tickets and check out the goodies up for grabs at:

SLS SNB Surf Sports Calendar for 2026-2027

The final SNB Surf Sports Calendar for the 2026-2027 season is now live!

To access the calendar please use the following link HERE
See you on the sand!

Calling All Stallholders 

The Elanora Heights Village Christmas Market is coming… and we’re looking for some AMAZING local businesses to join us! 
  • When: Sunday 29th November from 3-7:30pm!
  • Where: Kalang Road, Elanora Heights
Are you a small business with something unique to sell?
Based in 2101 or the surrounding area?
Got a gorgeous handmade, creative, festive or foodie business?
Book yourself a stall - STALL FEE: $120

Food trucks needed
If you’re a food truck looking for a fabulous local crowd, we’d LOVE to hear from you!

This is a great opportunity to get your business in front of the local community, meet new customers and spread some Christmas cheer!

Charity of Choice 2026
This year, we’re proud to support the 2101 Surf Life Saving Clubs, giving back to the community that makes our area so special.

Interested in being a stallholder?
Contact Karla at ehvm@gmail.com
Spots are limited, so get in touch and come celebrate Christmas with us!

Stop Misleading Ads Petition: Update

The ePetition Stop Misleading Ads at Next Year's Election that residents signed will be debated on 12/11/2026.

You can watch the debate live the NSW Parliament webcast here.

Thanks for getting involved in our democratic process.

Background
Earlier this year Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby sponsored an e-petition on the NSW Parliament website calling for residents to support the Australian Institute's petition to introduce new laws into NSW Parliament regulating truth in Political Advertising.

“There’s no place for misinformation in politics, particularly at a time when trust in our democratic system is critically low and highly polarised,” said Jacqui Scruby, Independent MP for Pittwater.

“Election campaigns should be a contest of ideas, where good policy rises to the top, not a race to the bottom driven by rage bait, scare tactics and misleading claims. NSW recently passed laws limiting digital deepfake abuse but reform has not gone far enough. South Australia has proven what’s possible and NSW should follow its lead. It’s time for truth in political advertising in NSW.”

“With so much misinformation and “alternative facts” being shared so far and wide, including through AI, it is critical for our democracy that we urgently implement truth in political advertising laws,” said Alex Greenwich, Independent MP for Sydney.

The petition reads:
''Stop Misleading Ads at Next Year's Election
To the Speaker and Members of the Legislative Assembly, 
It is perfectly legal to publish misleading political advertising in NSW, and it shouldn’t be. 
 
Truth in political advertising laws have operated successfully in South Australia for forty years, and were recently adopted in the Australian Capital Territory. Across Australia, businesses are already prohibited from misleading and deceptive conduct in trade and commerce, but the same standard has not been applied to politicians. 
 
The vast majority of NSW residents support laws to regulate misleading political advertising, according to polling research by the Australia Institute.

We therefore ask the Legislative Assembly to call on the Government to legislate truth in political advertising laws before the next election.''

Pittwater Community Groups: 


Services - Community Organisations


Sports (plus Social Members)

Gardens and Environment

Arts and Social

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. 
Send yours via email to: pittwateronlinenews@live.com.au