June 1 - 30, 2025: Issue 643

Front Page Issue 643

Week Two June 2025 (June 2 - 9): King's Birthday Honours Edition

Council announces single service for lifeguards across the Peninsula

VW State Classic 2025: Local Surfers among Winners in NSW State Surfing Titles + Results

Rockfisher Drowns at North Head

Aquatics NSW Government announces Beachwatch program to continue under current model for another two years

Marine Rescue NSW commends caution as missions drop in May 2025

Operation Snow Safe 2025 launches For opening of ski season: NSW Police

High Schools Get Hooked on New Fishing Program

North Narrabeen in 1911 - Panoramas taken for West's Lakeside Estate

Australia Post prioritises Postie safety with introduction of new dog attack deterrent

Park Bench Philosophers Snow Season 2025: Local Connections with the Sport of Skiing beginnings in Charles Kerry, Percy Hunter and Herbert Schlink

Pictures Long Reef Sunrise Headland Walk by Joe Mills

DIY Ideas 11 Ways to keep your home warm, safe and save money this Winter

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Week Five May 2025 - Week One June 2025 (May 26 - June 1): Issue 643

Profile: A Celebration of Jack McCoy

History: Avalon Beach Camping Ground Gave a Lot of Legends to the Pittwater Community

2025 Environment Art & Design Prize Finalists announced

Pictures A Few Waves for Jack: Little, South + North Av. 

Receivers appointed to Healthscope parent companies: short-term partial rent deferral agreement - EOI received

World Oceans Day 2025 at Bongin Bongin Bay Mona Vale: The Janice Mason Memorial Swim + Family-Friendly Activities - Sunday June 8, from 8am

Aquatics RPAYC's Gwen Slade Regatta 2025 + Upcoming Inaugural Kay Cottee Women's Development Regatta - June 29

Avalon Computer Pals turns 25

Local photographer reveals a new wave perspective on South Curl Curl Rockpool in new exhibition 'Immersed' at Manly Library

Park Bench Philosophers Labor approves Woodside's North West Shelf extension: 'a prelude to approval for Woodside's Browse Project carbon bomb' + Green light for gas: North West Shelf gas plant cleared to run until 2070 + How the North West Shelf expansion risks further damage to Murujuga’s 50,000-year-old rock art

Job Scam Fusion Cell disrupts fake job networks targeting Australians: ScamWatch information on what to look for in Jobs and employment scams

Feedback Invited on Council's Climate Change Policy + Changes to Development Control Plans  (for Manly-Warringah-Pittwater) - closes June 22

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

Profile of the Week The King's Birthday 2025 Honours List 

Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, announced the King’s Birthday 2025 Honours list on Monday 9 June 2025.

The King’s Birthday 2025 Honours List recognises 830 Australians, including awards in the Order of Australia (General and Military Divisions), meritorious awards and recognition for distinguished and conspicuous service. This represents an increase of awardees of almost 30% since the Australia Day 2025 List.

The list includes people recommended to the Governor-General by the Council of the Order of Australia and organisations responsible for recommending meritorious, gallantry, distinguished and conspicuous honours. 

“I am delighted to congratulate all those recognised in The King’s Birthday 2025 Honours List,” the Governor-General said. “These honours recognise the selfless service, integrity, achievement, creativity, and care that flourish across our country.

“As your Governor-General, I see the values of care, kindness and respect in the many Australians who are honoured today, and in those who have been recognised throughout the fifty-year history of our Australian honours system.

“Every day, and all across the country, Australians are doing extraordinary things with passion, generosity, energy, and resolve. To all who are being recognised in The King’s Birthday 2025 Honours List, I want to offer my congratulations and gratitude for all that you have given to Australia – and I look forward to meeting many of you at the investiture of your awards,” the Governor-General said.

In addition to the 581 recipients of awards in the General Division of the Order of Australia (14 AC, 31 AO, 123 AM and 413 OAM), today’s Honours list includes: 

Recipients will attend investiture ceremonies at the Government House in their respective state or territory in coming months to receive the insignia of their award.

2025 Kings Birthday Honours from and those who have served the community in this area are Michael Bate - AM, Peter Meldrum Biscoe KC - AM, Richard Penn - AM, Teresa Plane - AM, Andrew Warden - AM, Robert (Bob) Connors - OAM, Dean Gardiner - OAM, Kim Mukuka - OAM, Ray Petersen OAM, Juris Turmanis - OAM, Michael Richer - ASM, Commissioner Alex Barrell - ESM, Douglas Lucas - ESM, Lance Miller - ESM.

    History WEA's Newport Summer School – for Workers, WANS + Future U.S., B.P.F. Wives: Local Insights for The 80th Commemoration of VP Day in 2025

    In the lead into VP Day 2025 we share a few local connections to the World War Two conflict in the Pacific that may not be well-known, commencing with the Workers' Educational Association 'Summer School' facility, which once stood on the corner of Wallamatta and Nullaburra roads at Newport, and was the venue for Women's Australian National Service (WANS), in particular the Sydney University Wans (known as "Swans") training, and by 1945 was the place for US and UK War Brides (BPF: British Pacific Fleet servicemen) who learnt skills which may make their new lives in their husband's countries easier.

    Victory in the Pacific (VP) Day in 2025 will be commemorated on Friday, August 15th in 2025, and will be mark the 80th anniversary of Japan's surrender to the Allied forces in 1945. This day signifies the end of World War II in the Pacific and is a time for Australians to remember and honour the service and sacrifice of all those who served in this conflict, and particularly in the Pacific.

    A combined Sub-Branches VP Day Commemoration Service will be held at the Avalon Beach RSL Cenotaph, commencing at 11.30am, led by Vice President Tamara Sloper-Harding, OAM, with the 2025 Guest Speaker being Commanding Officer HMAS Waterhen; Commander Lucy Frauenfelder, RAN.

    In the Pacific theatre of World War II, Australia experienced significant casualties. The Australian War Memorial records at least 27,073 Australian soldiers were killed and 23,477 wounded from enemy action. Additionally, over 30,000 Australians were captured by the Japanese during the war, with a significant number dying in captivity.

    On September 3rd, 1939, the day Great Britain declared war on Germany, Australia also declared war, announced by then Prime Minister Robert Menzies on national radio. 

    The conflict, which would continue for 6 years, saw Australia attacked for the first time, at Darwin, and through the mini-submarine attacks within Sydney Harbour and along the eastern seaboard, with one of these being found off Bungan Beach, now an official war grave.

    When the Empire of Japan captured the British stronghold of Singapore between February 8 to 15 1942, imprisoning young men like Warriewood's Walter Williams and Palm Beach SLSC's Adrian Curlewis, by then Prime Minister John Curtin recalled many of the Australians serving in North Africa and the Europeans theatres of conflict.

    Pittwater's Anthony Ruskin Rowe, a spitfire pilot and one of those recalled, lost his life on June 20th 1943 defending Darwin, while Narrabeen resident Lindsay Dufty served on the ground in the top end.

    In Pittwater a submarine boom would be placed between Barrenjoey and the West Head headlands, anti-tank traps would rip up the countryside between Mona Vale, Bungan and Bayview, barbed wire would be placed along the beaches to thwart invasion and troops would be stationed at gun emplacements along the peninsula, while Coast Watchers, along with women who stayed would be part of the 'spotter' squads - stationing themselves along each headland - with the women taking on a roster of each staying atop the headlands twice each each week to look out for and report enemy ships, submarines and planes. Only one known fatality is recorded, at this stage, of those all-women 'spotter' squads, Palm Beach resident Ailsa Craig, by then the wife of Captain George Urquhart (Scotty) Allan. 

    Pittwater Offshore Newsletter:

    June 1 2025


    Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

    To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

    Pothole Problems: How to report

    Council states residents may have noticed a pothole or two after recent rains - some t are new, others that are old and made worse by regular downpours. 

    With a wet Winter forecast, the situation may persist in the months ahead and Council states it is tasking extra crews to get on top of the backlog as soon as conditions allow - blue skies.

    So far this year, residents have reported more than 1,300 potholes across the local area. Council states its crews have already repaired 1,182 of these and are working to address the remaining as quickly as possible.

    While potholes on local roads are managed directly by the Council, many of the reports they receive are for repairs on major arterial roads, including Pittwater Road, Barrenjoey Road and Wakehurst Parkway, which are managed by the NSW Government. 

    Reporting potholes
    If you see a pothole, please report it:

    Council-managed roads 
    Council manages the local roads that are not major arterial corridors. If the pothole is on a local Council-managed road, please report it so they can put it on their works schedule. 


    NSW Government-managed roads
    The following roads are managed by the NSW Government and they are responsible for their maintenance, including repairing potholes, so all potholes need to be reported directly to them: 
    • Beach Road, Palm Beach
    • Ocean Road, Palm Beach
    • Barrenjoey Road, Palm Beach to Mona Vale
    • Pittwater Road, Mona Vale to Manly
    • Warringah Road
    • Condamine Street (Brookvale to Burnt Bridge Creek Deviation)
    • Burnt Bridge Creek Deviation and Myrtle Street overpass
    • Forest Way
    • Wakehurst Parkway
    • Mona Vale Road 
    • McCarrs Creek Road (From Terrey Hills to McCarrs Creek Reserve) 
    • Liberator General San Martin Drive
    • Sydney Road 
    • Belgrave Street
    • Manly Road
    • Frenchs Forest Road, Seaforth 

    Renewing the water main in Old Barrenjoey Road: Update

    Construction update – Friday 6 June 2025

    This week we set up our work zone and traffic changes at the northern end of Old Barrenjoey Road ahead of our tunnelling work starting. We also continued our work near Simmonds Lane, but a technical challenge with our concrete pour meant we couldn’t continue as planned, so we have rescheduled the concrete pour for next week. 

    Next week, we’ll continue our night work to install the new water main along Old Barrenjoey Road. Once the concrete pour near Simmonds Lane is completed, we’ll continue progressing down the road towards The Crescent. 

    We’ll also continue setting up the tunnelling work zone at the northern end of the road. This work will be done during the day, however some deliveries will need to occur at night. 

    Night work (8 pm – 5 am, Monday to Friday mornings):

    • 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.
    • removing and pouring concrete near a section of the water main located in front of Simmonds Lane.
    • placing a temporary road plate over a part of the trench to allow the concrete to set. We will remove the plate and cover the area with hot mix as soon as possible.
    • at the end of each night shift, we will temporarily restore Old Barrenjoey Road to allow for continued use during the day.
    • truck deliveries to our tunnelling zone at the northern end of Old Barrenjoey Road. These trucks will remain within our work zone to be unloaded during our day work hours. 

    If we finish next week’s planned night work early, we may keep moving further down Old Barrenjoey Road towards The Crescent. 

    Day work (7 am – 6 pm weekdays, 8 am – 1 pm Saturdays):

    • work zone between Avalon Fire Station and Woolworths.
    • one-way traffic (southbound) with traffic diverted through the Woolworths car park (see “Temporary traffic changes – Section 2” map below). 
    • parking restricted along Old Barrenjoey Road between the between the Fire Station and Avalon Parade. Parking will be suspended for the duration of our work in this area.
    • parking inside the car park next to Woolworths will be maintained.
    • we will maintain access to the loading zone outside the Avalon Recreation Centre.
    • temporarily closing the footpath outside the Woolworths for safety while this tunnelling work is underway. The footpath on the opposite side of the street (near Dunbar Park) will remain open at all times.
    • these traffic changes will be in place 24/7 for 12 to 16 weeks while the tunnelling work is underway.
    • potholing using a vacuum truck to confirm the location of underground services within our work area.
    • road sawing and excavating to create launch and receive shafts for the tunnelling work (see map below).
    • beginning to install sheet piles at both shaft locations to reinforce the shaft walls. This work is typically quite noisy and will take place over approximately 10 shifts, with noisy activity occurring intermittently. 

     

    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. 

    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. 
    Sydney Water & Confluence Water project team 

    The 2025 CWAS "David Malin Awards"

    Entries close July 1 2025. For details on each category visit: https://www.cwas.org.au/astrofest/DMA/

    There is a new International Section open to all astrophotographers - both Australian and overseas residents. 

    The Competition Structure:
    • General Section (Open only to Australian residents):
    • Wide-Field
    • Deep Sky
    • Solar System
    • Theme - "People and Sky"
    • Junior Section (Australian residents aged 18 years or younger):
    • One Open Category (can be of any astronomical subject)
    • International Section (Open to all Australian and overseas resident astrophotographers)
    • Nightscapes
    An additional prize, "The Photo Editor's Choice", will also be awarded. This will be judged by a major news organisation's photo editor or editors. Entry fees are $20 per entry and can be paid by the PayPal, Credit and debit cards.

    Bilgola Beach Carpark Accessible parking upgrade: Feedback Invited

    Council have tabled a proposal for more accessible parking spaces in the Bilgola Beach Carpark. 

    ''We have reviewed the carpark, and are proposing to convert 2 angled parking spaces adjacent to the café to 2 accessible parking spaces.'' their webpage for the project states

    ''Our aim is to enhance access and parking opportunities for beachfront visitors with disabilities and/or mobility issues. The change will increase the number of accessible parking spaces at the beach from 3 to 5.

    There is no change to the total number of parking spaces available in the carpark under this proposal.

    Your input is important to us - we invite you to view the concept plan below and have your say on the proposal today.''

    Plan below - consult page here. Feedback closes Sunday July 6, 2025

    Proposed Road Reserve Lease - Wilga Street and Powderworks Road, Elanora Heights

    Council are proposing to grant a road reserve lease for five years to the owners of 233 Powderworks Road, Elanora Heights.

    The purpose of the proposed lease is a private water rising main from 233 Powderworks Road, Elanora Heights, under Powderworks Road and along the northern side of Wilga Street, Elanora Heights to Elanora Country Club.

    Any person is entitled to make submissions to Council with respect to the proposed lease.

    Submissions can be made within 28 days of the date of this public notice by:

    In writing: Northern Beaches Council, PO Box 82, Manly NSW, 1655.

    This public notice is in accordance with Section 154 of the Roads Act 1993.

    Submissions close Sunday 22 June 2025

    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.

    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 closes on 25 June at midnight.

    To view the guidelines and application form please visit.

     

    Click on logo above to visit their website.

    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  June 2025

    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.  

    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


    Friendly's 50 Years of Coaching: Community Recognition statement

    In a Community recognition statement tabled by Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby in the Parliament of New South Wales on Thursday June 5, the local member stated:

    ''Brian Friend OAM is a wonderful local leader and long-term coach at Avalon Bulldogs. Affectionately known as Friendly, this local legend will mark 50 years of coaching junior rugby league with the Avalon Bulldogs this month. 

    His ongoing contribution at 81 years young reflect the best of the NRL values - excellence, inclusiveness, courage and teamwork. Friendly has coached with each of these values in mind which he has passed along to hundreds of young players over the past five decades. 

    Friendly first stepped up to coach in 1975 when his son's team were without a coach. Throughout this time, Friendly has built much more than sporting teams. He has fostered a community of families, volunteers, supporters and young athletes, inspiring participation on and off the field. In the off season, he helped pioneer local junior football competitions, which has engaged over 700 children. 

    As a coach, referee, player and mentor, his impact on Pittwater's sporting community and youths is immeasurable. On behalf of the community of Pittwater, particularly Avalon, we sincerely thank Friendly for his incredible five decades of service. Congratulations on this truly remarkable milestone- and go the Doggies!''


    Celebrating 50 Years of Friendly at the Avalon Bulldogs

    Join us as we honour a true club legend – Friendly – and his incredible 50 years of service to the Avalon Bulldogs.

    Let’s come together to celebrate a lifetime of coaching, mentoring, and unwavering dedication that has shaped the heart of our club and community.
    • 📅 Date: Saturday, 21st June 2025
    • 🕖 Time: TBC
    • 📍 Location: Avalon Bulldogs Clubhouse, Hitchcock Park, Avalon
    • 🍴 Food & Drinks: BBQ + bar open, family-friendly
    • 🎤 Speeches, Stories & Surprises – plus a few laughs along the way!
    Whether you’re a past or present player, parent, volunteer, or friend – everyone is welcome. Let’s show our appreciation for Friendly and celebrate this remarkable milestone together.
    One club. One legend. 50 years of loyalty.

    More details to come, but we can’t wait to see you there!

    NSW ban on public private partnerships for acute hospitals passes Parliament

    Thursday June 5, 2025
    Statement by NSW Minister for Health Ryan Park:
    ''I am pleased the NSW Government’s ban on all future public private partnerships being imposed on the state’s acute hospitals has today passed the NSW Parliament.

    As a Labor government, we have always adamantly opposed these sorts of arrangements – and we will continue to oppose them, now and into the future.

    The PPP Prohibition Bill has made important amendments to the Health Services Act to prohibit governments from entering into a Northern Beaches-style arrangement to build or operate an acute public hospital.

    The private sector can and does play an important part in the delivery of public hospital services. 

    However, the use of a Northern Beaches Hospital style public private partnership raises complex issues and risks. 

    This Government does not believe, and never has believed, that this is a model that is best for public health care. Local community hospitals that are designed to provide services to public patients should be part of the public health system. 

    This Bill honours the legacy of baby Joe Massa. I want to thank Elouise and Danny Massa, Joe’s parents, for their courage and advocacy to make these reforms a reality.''

    Avalon Beach Historical Society June 2025 Meeting

    The next meeting of the Society will be held on TUESDAY 10 JUNE in the usual venue – the ANNEXE in the north-west corner of Dunbar Park and will start at 8pm.

    Unfortunately our planned guest speaker is unable to attend so we have a series of surprises to keep you well and truly entertained and more importantly, historically satisfied.

    Over our many years, and with our esteemed photographic wizard (aka John Stone) we have amassed a great compilation of appropriate film and video historic clips.

    We are going to take you to a folk song concert in St. Michael’s Cave in 1964 and we’ll join A. J. Small in 1932 behind the viewfinder of his movie camera as he films ‘AvaPutt’, his mini-golf course. You’ll also witness his son Geoff, as he sets out the flags to begin patrolling on Avalon Beach after successfully obtaining his Bronze Medallion in the first squad in January 1926.

    In 2015 we shared some of our classic photos from our archives which were transformed into a unique video/film presentation called ‘Creative Features’ as part of the Film Festival of the same name.

    We will also share with you the sad demise of the classic art-deco Beacon Store at Palm Beach when the ‘rights’ to burn it to the ground were ‘sold’ by the Council to Home and Away.

    We couldn’t let you go without the promised last meeting of a local excerpt from ‘Skippy’ and yet another glimpse of the stunning ‘Elephants on Avalon Beach’ by our local resident Jae Morrison.

    A big ‘Thanks’ to the 13 members who supported David Elfick in his quest to get a reasonable outcome for the DA on the site to the north of his mighty ‘Palladium’. He has an update for us in General Business.

    Geoff Searl OAM
    President Avalon Beach Historical Society

    Labor introduces laws to crack down on misuse of affordable housing

    Tuesday June 3, 2025
    The Minns Labor Government has today introduced reforms to streamline the regulation and access of affordable housing across the state, as they continue work to create a fairer housing market in New South Wales.

    The Government states its legislation will close existing loopholes in the system. Currently, without central oversight, it is not known how many affordable homes there are in New South Wales.

    This can lead to poor compliance and mismanagement, including overcharging for rent and not providing priority access based on need.

    Further, this Bill will ensure taxpayer money is being used in the best interest of the people of New South Wales, ending a pattern under the existing system where some developers could access planning incentives for affordable housing, and then not deliver fairly priced housing.

    The Community Housing Providers (Adoption of National Law) Amendment Bill 2025, introduced to Parliament today, will:
    • create a public register of all affordable homes – tracking where homes are, who owns them, and who manages them
    • establish a new category of Affordable Housing Managers who will be responsible to the NSW Government Registrar for ensuring the eligibility of tenants and that affordable rents are charged
    • ban developers from getting occupation certificates unless a registered manager is appointed, and affordable housing rules are legally recorded on the property title
    • introduce fines and enforcement powers for failing to rent to eligible tenants or breaching conditions
    • strengthen information sharing and oversight.
    Minister for Planning Paul Scully said:

    “We are making sure affordable housing is delivered alongside market housing through our planning reforms such as the Infill Affordable housing pathway, the Housing Delivery Authority and the Transport Oriented Development program.

    “The Transport Oriented Development program is the first time in NSW history that a government has introduced inclusionary zoning for affordable housing in perpetuity, these reforms will guide and support that affordable housing delivery.

    “These reforms are already supporting the delivery of hundreds more affordable homes with thousands more in the planning pipeline, so it is important that we take steps to improve the oversight of these homes.”

    Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson stated:

    “We’re drawing a line under the cowboy era of unregulated affordable housing. These laws ensure that if you say you’re delivering affordable housing, you actually do.

    “This is about protecting the integrity of affordable housing. If a developer gets approval under affordable housing rules, they must deliver on that promise and affordable homes must be managed properly and go to eligible tenants.

    “These reforms are fair and focused. They reduce the regulatory burden on owners while giving government the power to step in when things go wrong. It’s about trust, accountability, and making sure affordable housing actually stays affordable.”

    Shelter NSW CEO John Engeler said:

    "Shelter NSW is greatly encouraged by this announcement giving immediate operational certainty. This legislation provides protection for the growing area of affordable housing, especially for those on lower incomes.

    "Shelter NSW is keen to make sure that over time bonuses and incentives aimed at increasing the supply of affordable housing, especially in perpetuity, are long remembered well after the excitement of a new building is announced.

    "All too often legislation lags behind changes in the market – steps taken today by Government, especially for the Minister of Planning and the Minister of Housing and Homelessness, ensures that legislation for this growing area of alternative market housing is not having to play catch-up.

    "We welcome these reforms, improvements, and enhancements that mean people have more affordable and secure housing, especially those who need it most."

    Sydney Harbour Bridge and Tunnel tolls rise

    Tolls on the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Tunnel will rise on July 1. All extra revenue collected from the inflation-linked increase will go into the NSW Government’s toll relief scheme, the $60 toll cap.

    A peak weekday toll to cross the Harbour will increase by 14 cents or 3.2 per cent.

    It is only the second time since 2009 that Bridge and Tunnel tolls have increased after the former Liberal government held them static during their entire three terms in office.

    At the same time, motorists in car-dependent Western Sydney have been unable to avoid annual or quarterly toll increases that have made the price of a return peak hour weekday toll from Campbelltown or Liverpool to the CBD upwards of $35.

    The state government has sated: 'Toll relief has become a key cost-of-living support measure under the Minns Labor Government after the Liberals left behind a total toll bill of $195 billion in nominal terms that must be paid by motorists out to 2060 on top of the billions they have already paid.'

    There are more than 100 suburbs where motorists have so far claimed more than $300 under the $60 toll cap, including Parramatta, Lidcombe, Schofields, Westmead, Toongabbie, Merrylands and Auburn.

    The $60 toll cap is due to expire on 1 January 2026.

    Minister for Transport John Graham said:

    “A toll rise on the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Tunnel remains a rare occurrence, with this marking only the second time in 16 years since they have gone up. In our city’s west they have gone up every quarter or every year.

    “We are focused on delivering a fairer tolling network and this inflation-linked increase will go into toll relief that has become so important to motorists who pay the highest toll bills in the suburbs of Western Sydney.”

    Nominations open for the 2025 Australian Mental Health Prize

    It's been 10 years since the national prize first launched to recognise Australians who have made outstanding contributions to mental health awareness and treatment.

    Despite improvements in mental health, urgent challenges to help those in need still remain. That's the overwhelming sentiment from some of Australia's leading mental health experts.

    This year marks the 10th anniversary of the highly regarded Australian Mental Health Prize. As nominations open for the 2025 prize, leading mental health advocates reflect on a decade of transformation, and the urgent challenges that remain.

    Established by UNSW Sydney, the Prize honours Australians who have made outstanding contributions to mental health across four categories: Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, Lived Experience, Professional, and Community Hero.

    “This milestone year is an opportunity to reflect on how far we’ve come — and where we need to go next,” said University of Sydney Adjunct Professor Sophie Scott, Chair of the Australian Mental Health Prize Advisory Group and award-winning journalist and author.

    “It’s a chance to recognise the individuals and community leaders who are making a real difference, often with little fanfare and limited support.”

    Over the past decade, the Prize has spotlighted leading clinicians, researchers, advocates, peer workers, educators and community leaders. Many have influenced national mental health policy, shaped new models of care, and driven cultural change within their own communities.

    UNSW Scientia Professor Gordon Parker, 2020 recipient and founder of the Black Dog Institute, said Australia must continue to value rigorous research and independent thinking — particularly as new approaches to treatment emerge.

    “There is promising work being done in fields like the gut-brain connection and mood disorders, but we must stay evidence-based and challenge ideas that don’t hold up. We also need to do more to support the next generation of researchers. Without them, innovation stalls.”

    Ellison Professor of Aboriginal Young Peoples’ Social and Emotional Wellbeing at Murdoch University and 2024 winner, Professor Juli Coffin works with Aboriginal young people in regional Western Australia. She said mental and physical health must be treated together — and that relational, culturally grounded care must be properly funded.

    “People are realising that wraparound, community-led models work. The challenge is that they’re often overlooked in favour of programs that continue to deliver little impact. We need to shift how success is measured — and who gets to define it.”

    Professor Kimberlie Dean, forensic psychiatrist at UNSW Sydney and member of the Prize Advisory Group, said the past decade has seen progress in recognising lived experience and community-led innovation, but significant gaps remain.

    ''We’ve seen encouraging growth in the peer workforce and online service delivery. Yet the burden of mental ill-health, especially among young people, continues to rise. The system must evolve to better support what we know works — and do so at scale.''  Professor Dean said

    As part of this milestone year, past winners are also sharing their advice to the next generation of changemakers — from championing lived experience and challenging broken systems, to leading with courage, kindness and conviction.

    “Have the courage to not know and let the people most affected provide the answers you don’t have,” said Dr Louise Byrne, 2024 recipient and Director of Lived Experience Training. “That’s how we build a system that actually works — by listening deeply, challenging old assumptions, and backing real-world knowledge.”

    “Be kind to the marginalised, and lead with love, truth and conviction,” said Megan Krakouer, 2023 recipient and Director of the National Suicide Prevention and Trauma Recovery Project. “Real change starts with honesty, integrity and heart.”

    Professor Attila Brungs, UNSW Vice-Chancellor and President, said the Prize reflects the University’s commitment to fostering long-term, evidence-based impact through trusted partnerships.

    “For a decade, the Australian Mental Health Prize has helped shine a light on those advancing mental health outcomes in communities across Australia,” Prof. Brungs said. “We remain dedicated to critical societal conversations about mental health and driving collective impact in this space.”

    Nominations for the 2025 Australian Mental Health Prize are now open and close on July 23, 2025.  

    Visit Australian Mental Health Prize for more information.

    Cremorne Point Ferry Wharf Closure

    Cremorne Point Ferry Wharf will temporarily close from Monday May 26 as critical repair and maintenance work takes place over the coming months.  
     
    To carry out this work, the wharf will be closed, and ferry services will be unavailable from Monday 26 May to Friday 12 December 2025. 
     
    The wharf is being maintained to ensure it remains safe, reliable, and accessible for all passengers.  
     
    The improvements include: 
    • A new gangway to provide safer, smoother boarding and disembarking for passengers, including those with mobility needs or prams 
    • A new roof on the pontoon, offering better protection from the weather while you wait for your ferry 
    • General structural upgrades to improve the long-term resilience and functionality of the wharf.  
    These works are part of our commitment to keeping NSW’s transport infrastructure in top condition and ensuring that local ferry services continue to meet the needs of the community, both now and into the future. 
     
    Passengers in the area can find alternative transport options at Old Cremorne Wharf or bus route 225 from the Milsons Road Bus stop to Neutral Bay wharf, or they can change to a B-line route from Military Road to get into the city. 

    Alternative transport options
    • Taronga Zoo (F2) commuter services during AM and PM peak periods will be redirected to the Old Cremorne Wharf (900m walk)
    • Bus Route 225 from the Milsons Road Bus stop (Stop ID 209035) to Neutral Bay Wharf to get F5 service into the city
    • Bus route 225 from Milsons Road Bus stop (Stop ID 209035) will take passengers to Military Rd
    • Buses toward the city available at Military Rd at Spencer Rd (Stop ID 209036)
    • Bus route B1 from Military Rd to the CBD.
    Ferry timetables
    We understand this may cause some inconvenience and we truly appreciate your patience while we make these much-needed improvements. 
     
    For more information on the Cremorne Point Wharf upgrade please visit Wharf Maintenance Program | Transport for NSW and for trip planning and other transport options, please visit transportnsw.info. 

    Thanks again for your understanding, and we look forward to providing you with an improved wharf once the work is completed.

    Transport for NSW

    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. 

    Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week

    Lady 

    8yo Schnauzer X

    Lady is a super sweet girl who came from the pound, blind. Our vets suspect she has SARDS which is common in this breed. She trips over obstacles but rarely bumps into walls which suggests some vision. She seems to be used to climbing onto a human bed and sleeping comfortably. She has a good appetite. She is social with other small dogs and is easy to handle, wash and clip. She has a low shedding coat and weighs 9.2kg. 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 $600. 

    Tango 

    12mths Foxy X

    Tango is a lovely friendly boy. He has very good social skills and is playful with other small dogs. He is easy to handle. He found himself in the pound slightly nervous and bewildered amongst bigger dogs. Tango is an active boy with good climbing skills so secure fencing is a must. He is looking for an active family who will involve him in their activities. He has a short coat and is underweight at 6.2kg. Tango suits apartment living and PT working hours. 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

    Proposed Laneway Closure and sale of land: 20-28 Montauban Avenue, Seaforth

    On Tuesday May 13 2025 the council stated;
    'Notice is hereby given that Council proposes to close the council lane behind 20-28 Montauban Avenue, Seaforth, between Montauban Avenue and Phillip Avenue. 

    The purpose of the proposed road reserve closure is to enable the sale of the subject land to the adjoining owner, to facilitate the redevelopment of the site, with the proceeds of the land sale to be used to fund other public road infrastructure needs in the local community.

    Any person is entitled to make submissions concerning the proposal within 28 days of the date of this public notice. 
    Submissions close 15 June 2025.

    You can make a submission in one of the following ways:

    Complete the Submission Form below. (HERE)
    In writing: Northern Beaches Council, PO Box 82, Manly NSW, 1655.

    Once the submission period is completed, Council will consider all duly made submissions before deciding whether to continue with the road reserve closure proposal.

    This public notice is in accordance with Section 38B of the Roads Act 1993.

    Pittwater Community Groups: 


    Sports (plus Social Members)

    Gardens and Environment

    Rural Fire Brigades
    Services - Community Organisations

    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. 
    Please