June 4 - 10  2023: Issue 586



This Issue: full list in Contents page 

Front Page Issue 586

Rory Amon, Liberal MP For Pittwater: Inaugural Speech To The Parliament Of New South Wales

NSW Government Takes Urgent Action To Recruit More Bus Drivers: Bus Passenger Forum For Our Area To Be Held June 24 2023 At Dee Why - Or Email In Comments

North Avalon - Careel Bay Footpath Construction Finally Begins

Pittwater MP To Introduce New Stop PEP-11 Bill

Aquatics: World Oceans Day 2023 (June 8th): 'Planet Ocean: Tides Are Changing' - Weedy Seadragons Citizen Scientist Project + Living Ocean's Welcome To Whale Ocean Country + Plastics Research

Tibetan Library Collection Safeguards Language and Culture (Launched at Dee Why) by Miranda Korzy, Pittwater Councillor

Two Catherines - A Twisted Scotland Island Tale: Runs This June

Pictures: Sorry Day In Pittwater 2023 + THE VOICE Information Program + Website Launched

A Journey In India: Part 2 by Robyn McWilliam 

Surf Life Saving NSW Drones Set To Fly Further - Save More Lives: The Long Range UAV Project

Park Bench Philosophers Pittwater's Great Outdoors: Spotted To The North, South, East + West:  Palm Beach Boat House rebuild going well - First day of Winter Rainbow over Turimetta - what's Blooming in the bush? + more by Joe Mills, Selena Griffith and Pittwater Online

Profile of the Week Richard Menhinick AM, CSC
Commodore RAN, (Retired), President Avalon Beach RSL Sub-Branch

The new President of the Avalon Beach RSL Sub-Branch has served Australia for almost 50 years in our Defence Forces. His story is definitely a case of 'join the Navy and see the world' along with the wide range of roles a person can undertake in our Defence Forces.

Commodore Richard Temple Menhinick AM, CSC is a retired senior officer of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN). Richard joined the Royal Australian Navy in 1976, finishing his training in 1980 he underwent training as a Principal Warfare Officer and in 1983 was posted as the naval Aide-de-Camp to the Governor of Tasmania, Sir James Plimsoll. 

Richard went on to serve as exchange Officer with the Royal Navy on board HMS Cardiff and has served as the commanding officer of HMAS Anzac, HMAS Warramunga – 1st commission - and served as the executive officer of HMAS Hobart.

He was serving as the Commandant of the Australian Command and Staff College until 2012 when he handed over to Brigadier Peter Gates.

In transitioning into private capacity, although Commodore(Rt’d.) Menhinick’s story is one of success and being able to share knowledge that has benefitted Australia and Australians – serving still really – although it was not the smooth, supported, transition it could have been.

Richard seems to be bent on ‘getting the job done’ and not pausing for praise – he is a straight talker and one who sees all as equals. Richard genuinely cares about others, whatever their background, in whichever settings he meets them, despite the rank he achieved in the RAN and the deployments he undertook. He is essentially a man who loves his wife and family and our area, having grown up here since his family moved to Australia when he was just 2 years of age.

This Issue a small insight into the long and winding road, or sea paths, of one of our own.

History  Pittwater's Tropical Fruits: The Estuarine Farmlets At Mona Vale-Newport That Kept Sydney Stocked With Hot Area Fruit In The Middle Of Winter

The State Library of New South Wales, in its ongoing digitisation of materials and making these available, recently added photographs of a 'tropical fruit orchard at Pittwater' which, according to the sources, were taken on July 11th, 1938.

From the earliest records of European settlement in Pittwater reports and anecdotes of the great array of fruits once grown here have formed part of what was told. Newport peaches, Church Point grapes, Narrabeen Plums and Warriewood tomatoes have all been produced abundantly and their quality was second to none, winning prizes at the annual Royal Easter Show for some producers and renown for record prices fetched in the case of all those tomatoes that came out of the Warriewood valley.

This persistence of Pittwater as a food bowl continued, even through WWII and into the 1950's and shows the late Autumn tropical fruits such as pawpaw, often one craved as it starts to get cold, grew here too as Pittwater headed into Winter.

After further research, those images turn out to be of Mona Vale market farmers with acreage on the Crescent to Waterview suntrap run.

As the weather grows colder, a Winter opener to warm you up!

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: May 1, 2023

Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Contents May 1st 2023 Issue: Did Scotland Island Used To Be More Fun?, Island Feast for Freedom 2023, Two Catherines: A Twisted Scotland Island Tale, Island Playgroup, The Tuesday Discussion Group, Seafarers' Shindig, International Folk Dancing, Scotland Island Café, Scotland Island Fire Shed Dinner, Scotland Island Revive Retreat, Two Catherines: A Twisted Scotland Island Tale, Winter Market Day, For sale: Stacer 498 Bowrider 2007, Island home for rent, Local handyman for hire

Council's Plan to protect our great green canopy; feedback invited

Council is seeking community feedback on a plan to increase and preserve our tree canopy, ensuring it remains one of the largest tree canopies in Greater Sydney.

The Draft Northern Beaches Tree Canopy Plan proposes a range of measures including the protection of trees on public land, better monitoring of the tree canopy across the local government area, strengthening the local planning frameworks to support the retention, protection, replacement, and growth of private trees, and increasing community involvement in greening our communities.

“We have one of the largest tree canopies in Greater Sydney, but it faces range of pressures, challenges and threats,” Mayor Heins said.

“A healthy, protected tree canopy not only provides essential habitat for local wildlife, but it also improves the liveability of our communities and reduces the urban heat island effect.

“Council is committed to protecting and increasing our tree canopy on both on public and private land. We know many of our residents are as equally passionate about ensuring our green spaces are preserved, and we encourage everyone to have their say on our new plan.”

The plan includes a number of actions to be implemented, including:
  • continuing to plant 5,000 trees per year
  • conduct an audit of trees in priority areas
  • measure tree canopy cover every four years.
  • implement an iconic tree register for public land.
  • raise awareness about tree planting programs.
  • improve tree diversity and health.
  • strengthen the Local Environment Plan and Development Control Plans to focus on retention and protection of tree canopy.
continue to investigate and act upon unauthorised activities that impact on the tree canopy, such as illegal vegetation clearing, unauthorised recreational trails and other environmental damage.
promote the importance of retention and protection of trees as part of the development application and tree removal process.

Under the plan, the following areas will be prioritised for increasing their tree canopy cover: Brookvale, Dee Why, Mona Vale, Narrabeen, Manly, Manly Vale, Narraweena, Curl Curl Queenscliff, and Warriewood.

For more information about the draft plan or to have your say visit Your Say  at:

Feedback closes close Sunday 9th of July.


Draft Compliance and Enforcement Policy: Have you say

Opens: Fri 2 June 2023
Closes: Sun 9 Jul 2023

Council receives enquiries from the community in relation to allegations of illegal use, unauthorised or non-compliant works, pollution concerns, or unsafe conditions. Each customer concern is managed in three (3) stages:
  1. preliminary assessment
  2. investigation
  3. enforcement (where necessary).
All enquiries are managed using a risk-based approach to determine their urgency. This assists in prioritising resources to address critical matters promptly.

Council's Compliance and Enforcement Policy outlines the approach to compliance and enforcement taken by Council and its delegated officers.

This policy is subject to review on a three-yearly basis and has recently been revised to strengthen Council's approach.

Key additions relate to:
  • council's approach to compliance under a risk-based framework
  • how council assign priority to enquiries
  • how investigations are undertaken
  • the role of private certifiers
  • assistance if there is dissatisfaction with a decision.
A table of definitions for commonly used terms has also been added to provide further clarity.

View the Draft Compliance and Enforcement Policy and share your comments in one of the following ways:
  • completing the submission form here or
  • emailing council at council@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au or
  • writing to us marked 'Draft Compliance and Enforcement Policy' to Northern Beaches Council, PO Box 82 Manly NSW 1655.
All submissions in their entirety are made publicly available in the Community Engagement Report. Personal identifying information and inappropriate language are redacted.

Roadworks

Maintenance: North Narrabeen - Wakehurst Parkway between Pittwater Road and Warringah Road
Sun 21 May 2023 to Fri 9 Jun 2023: 8:00pm to 5:00am - Road closed both directions
Advice:  Check signage, Use diversions, Allow extra travel time.

Diversions: 
Heavy vehicles detour via Warringah Road and Pittwater Rd, Or Warringah Road, Forest Way, Mona Vale Rd, Pittwater Rd. 
Light vehicles detour via Frenchs Forest Rd, Forest Way, Mona Vale Rd, then Pittwater Rd, or Warringah Rd, Pittwater Road.


Planned Hazard Reduction Burn

(387.4 Hectares): Ku-ring-gai Chase at General San Martin Drive between Cottage Point Road and West Head Road - Thu 1 Jun 2023 to Tue 6 Jun 2023; Scheduled roadwork: Every Day (all day), Traffic affected both directions

Websites: RFS - Fires near me. Attending: Rural Fire Service, Emergency services.

Advice: Reduced speed limit (40km/h), Check signage, Allow extra travel time. Smoke in the area may affect visibility. Motorists should drive to the conditions. Traffic control will be in place 24hrs a day. Motorists are advised to expect intermittent closures.


$70 million for eating disorders and childhood mental health

May 29, 2023
The Australian Government is providing $70 million in grants for innovative programs to research and treat mental ill-health and eating disorders, improve services, educate health professionals and support patients, their families and carer. 

Programs to address gaps identified by people with lived experience of eating disorders and other experts will share in $20 million of funding. 

The University of Sydney’s InsideOut Institute’s award-winning eClinic and Digital GP Hub will each receive $4 million. The eClinic will make effective, evidence-based care and treatment available digitally to people with an eating disorder, regardless of where they live. 

As the first point of health system contact, GPs are critical to providing meaningful change to early identification and intervention rates. However, people with a lived experience have consistently reported a lack of knowledge in primary care. The Digital GP Hub will work to address this knowledge gap, delivering screening tools, resources and practice supports to GPs. 

The Right Care Right Place program will make it easier for people to navigate their way through the health system. $3.9 million will be provided to the National Eating Disorders Collaboration to trial Care Coordinators in four Primary Health Network (PHN) regions. 

The Butterfly Foundation will receive $2.8 million to implement a recovery support program for patients who have been discharged from a hospital or residential centre, delivered virtually and available nationally. 

Eating Disorders Queensland, Eating Disorders Families Australia and headspace will also receive funding to increase the supports for care in the community, supports for carers and training for headspace clinicians. 

In response to the recent decline in the mental health of children and the rise in self-harm and eating disorders, the Government will provide $50 million for the Medical Research Future Fund’s Childhood Mental Health Research Plan. 

An expert advisory panel is being established to develop the plan by August 2023, which will recommend how to best direct the funding towards research projects that help:
  • determine the factors that affect the mental health and wellbeing of children
  • find ways to improve access to evidence-based treatments and their delivery
  • address inequities in childhood mental health and psychological distress outcomes
  • inform implementation of current and future policies and programs in child mental health. 
The first competitive grant opportunity under the Plan will open from September 2023. 

The Hon Mark Butler MP, Minister for Health and Aged Care said,  
“A million Australians are impacted by eating disorders and many report a lack of awareness in a health system that is difficult to navigate and offers inconsistent care. 

“We have seen a worrying and significant deterioration in the mental health of children and a rise in self-harm and eating disorders. 

“This funding will back innovative ways to support people with eating disorders and mental ill-health and deliver better outcomes.” 

Assistant Minister McBride stated, 
“Eating disorders are complex and among the most lethal mental health conditions. We cannot stand by while the mental health of Australian children is declining. 

“These programs are directing help to where it is needed and building a national approach to driving a better tomorrow for people with eating disorders and their loved ones.” 

The full list of projects funded is:
  • The University of Sydney (InsideOut Institute): eClinic - $4,000,000
  • National Eating Disorders Collaboration: Right Care Right Place - $3,926,000 
  • headspace National: Embedding eating disorder treatment in headspace centres - $1,530,000
  • The University of Sydney (InsideOut Institute): Digital GP Hub - $4,000,000
  • Butterfly Foundation: Virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (v-IOP) - $2,844,000
  • Eating Disorders Families Australia: Fill the Gap - $1,700,000
  • Eating Disorders QLD: Brief Intervention/Therapy for Eating Disorders (bITE) - $2,000,000
  • Medical Research Future Fund: Childhood Mental Health Research Plan* - $50,000,000
TOTAL: $70,000,000

* Grants from the MRFF will be awarded through competitive grant opportunities with funding from 2024-25 onwards.

Monika's Doggie Rescue: Pets of the Week

Eddie 

4yo Jack Russell X Chihuahua


Eddie is a very sweet dog once he knows you. He is shy at first and needs to trust the handler. Eddie is social with other small dogs. He is slowly warming to us. He is comfortable getting baths, putting on jumpers etc but is not ready to come for a pat and cuddle. He has a short coat and weighs 5.6kg. He is underweight and currently 2 meals per day. All our dogs come with desexing, all puppy vaccinations, heartworm free and microchipped. 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 $400. 

Wednesday 

2yo Domestic Medium Hair


Wednesday is a very gentle smoochy girl with a medium length thick coat and gorgeous green eyes. She is easy to pick up and is very loving. She has had a dental with one extraction. She is FIV positive and would ideally suit indoor living as an only cat however options to live with another cat are possible with additional veterinary care. All our cats come desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV/FeLV tested if over 6 months old and microchipped. Her adoption fee is $220. 


To find out more call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email  Monika@DoggieRescue.com.  RON R251000024

Please join us in celebrating 100 years  of  Creative Leisure: 1924 – 2024

What are your memories of Creative Leisure?
Calling past participants in any Creative Leisure Movement activities, to send us your stories or experiences.

By Post: Northern Beaches Creative Leisure & Learning Inc
PO Box 1718  WARRIEWOOD 2102
Phone: 9944 6027


Expanded training opportunities for NSW skills providers

June 1, 2023
In a major boost for vocational education and training, more providers, more qualifications, and more regions will feature in the 2023-24 skills provider contracts.

The $710 million investment will allow 556 approved providers to deliver subsidised training in priority qualifications that address the skills needs in NSW.

The single biggest investment is being directed to TAFE NSW, receiving more than two thirds of the total funding under these skills provider contracts. This meets the entirety of the TAFE application for funding.

Capacity has been increased for qualifications in emerging industries as skills for the jobs of the future, including in wind power generation and automotive electric vehicle technology.

New contracts will increase capacity in the Diploma of Nursing in Sydney and regional areas to meet increased demand in hospitals and aged care.

Providers are being funded to allow for the statewide coverage of Certificate III and IV School Based Education and Support, and Diploma of School Based Education and Care. This funding also means the Diploma of Applied Technologies, advanced engineering and advanced electrical qualifications will become more accessible.

One hundred and ninety eight providers have been offered contracts for the first time, including 5 interstate TAFEs that train NSW residents in areas where training is not available in border communities.

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Tim Crakanthorp said, 
“In a skills crisis, it is important that we create a workforce that meets the evolving needs of industries in NSW."

“The Minns Government is determined to restore TAFE by putting it at the heart of the vocational education system."

“The government is proud to provide funding and opportunities to 13 Aboriginal-controlled providers, ensuring that training is accessible and responsive to the specific needs of communities across the state."

“By offering subsidies for priority qualifications, we are empowering individuals to gain the skills required for rewarding careers and driving economic growth.”

RFS Large Air Tanker called on to assist firefighters during U.S. wildfire season

June 2, 2023
For a third year in a row the Rural Fire Service (RFS) will send their 737 Large Air Tanker (LAT), the ‘Marie Bashir’ to the United States of America to assist U.S. agencies during the American wildfire season.

Following a recent request from U.S. fire agencies, the aircraft left its home base at the RAAF Richmond Air Base this morning, for the west coast of America. The RFS aircraft made a 3-month deployment in 2022 where it was based in Boise, Idaho and helped firefighters battle 37 fires across 6 states including Idaho, Nevada and California, dropping more than 1.2 million litres of suppressants during the operations.

Requests for Australian support are made by the U.S. National Multi-Agency Coordinating Group through the Australian Fire and Emergency Services Authority Council (AFAC). The RFS 737 LAT will be on an initial deployment of just over 3 months, and available to return at short notice if the need arises here in NSW. 

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said, 
“It’s a huge sign of respect that our NSW firefighters are again being called upon to assist their international colleagues and now, for the third time, the RFS is providing one of the best tools in their aviation arsenal, to help to the agencies protecting US communities.

“Just last week we saw the deployment of almost 60 NSW personnel to Canada, as part of a 200 strong team from Australia and New Zealand and as always, our Emergency Services remain willing to assist where they can, whether at home in NSW, interstate or overseas.”

NSW Rural Fire Service Commissioner Rob Rogers said, 
“Fire seasons all over the world are becoming longer and more intense but as we have just entered winter, we are happy to provide our Large Air Tanker to a country that needs the assistance.

“The fact that this is the third deployment of our aircraft to the US is testament to the fact our professional, highly trained, and experienced aviation specialists are greatly sought after.

“While we wish our crew a safe journey and all the best for the work they will be doing, we also wish US agencies and firefighters all the best and our thoughts are with those communities impacted.

“The RFS has the nation’s largest aerial firefighting fleet, and the service will always be willing to assist when we can.”

Launch of Armistice in Korea 1953-23 photography exhibition

Armistice in Korea, 1953-2023, a new exhibition at the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park Sydney, honours the service and the sacrifice of Australian Korean War veterans and features the photographs and stories of 11 veterans.

Minister for Veterans David Harris joined Mr Taewoo Lee, Consul-General of the Republic of Korea to open the photo exhibition commemorating the 70th anniversary of the Armistice of the Korean War.

“Seventy years ago on 27 July 1953, the Armistice was signed to end hostilities in Korea and effectively bring an end to war. This exhibition honours the contribution and sacrifice of 11 Australian veterans of the Korean War, with photographs and digital stories of their service.

“Importantly, we remember not only the 11 veterans featured in the exhibition but all 17,164 Korean War veterans who willingly risked their lives for the freedom of the Republic of Korea,” Mr Harris said.

Mr Taewoo Lee, Consul-General of the Republic of Korea acknowledged the Korean government’s efforts to honour the noble sacrifice and dedication of Korean War veterans.

“To ensure that their sacrifice is remembered, we thought it would be meaningful to organise a collaborative photo exhibition with the New South Wales Government. We plan to continue our efforts to pass on the legacy of Korean War veterans to future generations, and we hope that this exhibition will serve as a catalyst for such endeavours,” Mr Lee said.

The Korean War began on 25 June 1950 when North Korea invaded South Korea following clashes along the border and rebellions in South Korea. North Korea was supported by China and the Soviet Union while South Korea was supported by the United States and allied countries including Australia. The fighting ended with an armistice on 27 July 1953.

Over 17,000 Australians served during the Korean War, of which 340 were killed and over 1,216 wounded. A further 29 had become prisoners of war.

“I would like to thank the Consulate-General of the Republic of Korea for photographing these veterans and enabling us to work together to honour their service. The photographs and digital stories produced are essential to ensuring their sacrifices are not forgotten, and their legacy is passed down to future generations,” Mr Harris added.

The exhibition will feature in the Auditorium at the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park Sydney through to the end of July. For more information visit the Anzac Memorial event page

The exhibition is located in the Memorial’s Auditorium on Lower Ground level. The Memorial is open every day, 9am to 5pm. Please note that access to the exhibition is dependent on the Auditorium’s availability, so we encourage you to call the Memorial in advance on (02) 8262 2900.  Entry is free.

Changes to public access to council records under the State Records Act 1998

What’s new or changing:
  • Changes to the State Records Act 1998 (the Act) that take effect from 1 January 2024 will affect council records. Under the changes:
    • State records will be open to the public by default once they are 20 years old, unless they are closed via a Closed to Public Access (CPA) direction
    • public offices (including councils) will be required to submit a plan in 2024 outlining their intention to transfer records that are required as State archives.
  • As a result of changes to the Act that took effect on 31 December 2022, parts of the Act governing public access, transfers and records that have strayed (‘estrays’) are now administered by Museums of History NSW (MHNSW), a new statutory body.
  • Other parts of the Act are administered by State Records Authority NSW (State Records NSW).
What this will mean for your council
  • Councils will need to renew or register CPA directions with MHNSW well in advance of 1 January 2024 to ensure appropriate protection of sensitive information.
  • During 2024, councils will need to submit a transfer plan to MHNSW.

Key points:

  • Changes to the parts of the Act administered by MHNSW are as follows:
    • Section 32(4): Transfer planning – this new section will require public offices (including councils) to plan for the transfer of records required as State archives into the State Archives Collection, and to submit a plan to MHNSW. This requirement will apply even if there is no intention to transfer records at the present time.
    • Section 50: Reduction in the Open Access Period – the Open Access Period for State records will reduce from 30 years to 20 years. The Act establishes a presumption that records in the Open Access Period should be open to public access.
    • Section 51: State records will become open to the public by default after 20 years – State records that are at least 20 years old will be open to public access if they are currently subject to an Open to Public Access (OPA) direction or do not have an access direction in place. There is no change to the capacity for a public office to apply a CPA direction or the requirement for CPA directions to be renewed every 5 years.
The changes mean that from 1 January 2024:
  • State records that currently have a 30-year OPA direction registered will be open to the public once they are 20 years old
  • State records that are 20 or more years old and do not have an access direction registered will automatically be open to the public.
  • CPA directions that were made more than 5 years ago will need to be renewed before 1 January 2024 or the records will automatically be open to the public once they are 20 years old.
Where to go for further information

Advice on access directions is available on the Public access to records section of the MHNSW website.
Councils can review or renew existing access directions and register new directions through the Service Portal operated by MHNSW and State Records NSW. The Service Portal is available via the Agency Services webpage.

2023 Volunteer of the Year Nominations Open

As part of the 2023 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, The Centre for Volunteering is currently accepting nominations for people and teams for judging and recognition.

All volunteers in the Recognition stream will be acknowledged with a certificate at one of 24 regional ceremonies to celebrate their contribution to their local community.  

2023 Volunteer of the Year Nomination guidelines
All nominees must:
  • Be a volunteer in NSW, a practice defined as time willingly given for the common good and without financial gain*.
  • Have volunteered during the previous 12 months for a legitimate not-for-profit organisation, community group, or other entity which engages volunteers in a safe and legal manner, such as schools or government agencies.
You can also nominate your local volunteer or volunteer team for inclusion in the final judging for a Regional and State Volunteer of the Year Award. This nomination consists of completing six parts of the nomination form (three extra questions).  All parts must be completed to be accepted by the judging committee.

Please note, volunteers and volunteer managers are not permitted to nominate themselves. All nominators must have permission from the person or team you are nominating to disclose their personal information as part of their entry.

For all conditions and eligibility, please read (prior to your submission) the full Nomination Guidelines at: www.volunteering.com.au/awards/2023-awards

Nominations close 5pm, Friday 16 June 2023.


Council: Fox baiting notice to pet owners

Fox-specific poison baits are being laid in the following reserves until 12 May:
  • Manly Dam, Manly Vale
  • Allenby Park, Allambie Heights
  • Forestville Park, Forestville
  • Middle Creek Reserve, Oxford Falls
  • Dee Why Lagoon Wildlife Refuge
These reserves are closed to dogs until Friday 9 June. Dog and cat owners are advised to keep their pets away from these Northern Beaches reserves. 

Warning signs are being displayed in the these areas.

The fox baiting program is being conducted in conjunction with the National Parks and Wildlife Service and involves the use of “Foxoff® Econobait” poison baits, which are designed specifically for fox control. The poison baits contain 1080 (sodium monofluoroacetate).

Native animals at risk from foxes include bandicoots, swamp wallabies, brush turkeys and possums.

Report Hate Crimes

NSW Police Force: 
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. 

Letters to the Editor

Letters should preferably be 150 to 175 words, but considering the magazines inability to word limit itself - that remains optional.
Letters must include the writer's address and phone number and 'permission to publish'.
Letters should not contain attachments - these will be requested if required to illustrate content/subject.
Letters should be exclusive to Pittwater Online News.

The editor's prerogative includes editing letters for length, grammar or legal reasons, among other considerations. 

Volunteers needed: meals on wheels

Meals on Wheels have lost a lot of volunteers in the last few months due to COVID regulations etc. so they are desperate for some new people on the roster. The local service covers all the way from Manly Vale up to Palm Beach, so a run takes around 60-90mins. 

You leave from and return to the warehouse in Bassett Street, Mona Vale.
You don’t need to sign on to permanent shifts, even once a month would help them out greatly.
All drivers need an unrestricted license, must be fully vaccinated and will require a volunteer police check.
If you are able to assist please call Milly on 9457 3900 or email 
NBeachesVolunteer@kmow.org.au and she can give you more info and send you through training paperwork.


become a volunteer radio operator: MRNSW

Are you looking for a new challenge? With the busy summer boating season coming up Marine Rescue NSW units up and down the coast want to hear from you! And if you live in Sydney, our State Communications Centre in Belrose is especially keen to hear from you, just drop a line to: base.sydney@marinerescuensw.com.au 

Prior radio and boating experience is not required, and as a Radio Operator you'll play a vital role in helping to keep our waterways safer. If you want to take the plunge and join a dedicated volunteer team helping to save lives on our waterways, then go here for more information: 
www.marinerescuensw.com.au/become-a-volunteer/ or contact your local Marine Rescue NSW unit directly.


 

Click on logo above to visit their website.

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

Pittwater Community Groups: 


Sports (plus Social Members)

Gardens and Environment

Rural Fire Brigades
Services - Community Organisations

Arts and Social

Speed humps on McCarrs Creek Rd: please 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

It 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. Thanking you all in advance for your help with this. There is so much wildlife on the move in our area at present due to various pressures. Although we have had pictures sent to us, many of these have no date or location. There is a database that volunteers maintain but this 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

VALE John Ward OAM

14.2.39- 22.5.23
Late of Elanora Heights

Loving husband of Pam. Much loved father of Stephen, Katherine, Peter, Helen, Kali and Rebekah. Proud grandfather of Gypsy, Helene, Maddie, Jarrah, Emily, Patrick, Archie, Felix, Grace and Beau, and Great-grandfather of Aisha. 

Former Principal of Barrenjoey High School (1990-1999) and Randwick Boys High (1986-1989). Proud member of the Australian Labor Party. Life member of N.S.W Teachers Federation. John was much loved and will be missed by many.

OAM in 2023 Australia Day Honours List
'For service to the community through a range of organisations.'

John specialised in science ending up as principal of Barrenjoey High. Pam and John were made Life Members of Manly-Warringah Teachers Association, with John awarded Federation Life Membership. 



The Wards were recognised on Australia Day for their long service to Royal Life Saving Society of Australia, the Australian Labor Party, education, sport (tennis, netball, basketball, rugby league), the community and aquatics, with Pam still a trainer with the Department’s learn-to-swim program. 

John's OAM List includes:

For service to the community through a range of organisations.

Narrabeen-Pittwater Branch of the Australian Labor Party

  • President, since 1997.
  • Honorary Treasurer, 1987-1996.

Elanora Community Centre

  • Honorary Treasurer, 1999-2019.
  • Honorary Secretary, 1989-1999.

Elanora Park Tennis Club

  • President, 1980.
  • Honorary Treasurer, 1977-1979, 1981.
  • Member, 1975-1984.

Royal Life Saving Society of Australia

  • Member, 1960-2018.
  • Examiner, 1960-2018.
  • Founder, Aquatic Club, 1962.

Education

  • Former Teacher, New South Wales Department of Education.
  • Life Member, Sydney North Secondary Schools Sports Association.
  • Life Member, Manly-Warringah Teachers Association.
  • Life Member, New South Wales Teachers Federation.

Sport

  • Former Director, Sydney Academy of Sport.
  • President, Sydney North Secondary School Sports Association, 1991-1999.
  • Volunteer, Sydney Olympic Games, 1998-2000.
  • Secretary, Parramatta District Men's Basketball Association, 1966-1972.
  • State Referee, Sydney basketball Referees Association, 1965-1972.
  • Umpire, Chequers Netball Club, 1965-1988.
  • Referee, New South Wales Rugby League, 1966.

Community

  • Honorary Treasurer, Pittwater Sub-Branch, Returned and Services League of

Australia, 2015-2020.

  • President, 2nd Narrabeen Scout Group 1973-1977.
  • Member, Manly-Warringah Environmental Education Association, 1981-1983.
  • Vice-President, Aboriginal Education Council (NSW) Inc, 1992-2000.
A Mass to Celebrate John's Life was held at St Anthony in the Fields Catholic Church, Myoora Road, Terrey Hills, Thursday 1st June 2023. At the conclusion of Prayers following the Mass, the cortege proceeded to the Frenchs Forest Bushland Cemetery.

Photo: Pam and John Ward at North Sydney Olympic Pool, photo courtesy NSW Teachers Federation

Council a winner at Local Government Awards

June 2, 2023
Council has snared a top gong for its Resilience Strategy in the 2023 Local Government Excellence Awards.

On Thursday 1st of June, local government professionals gathered at Jones Bay Wharf Sydney for the Local Government Professionals Australia, NSW Awards Dinner, where the spotlight shone on excellence in the NSW local government sector.

The 2023 NSW Local Government Awards Dinner saw over 680 guests in attendance as we highlighted exceptional achievements in local government across NSW and celebrated the success and milestones of our members, both as emerging talent and most respected industry leaders. The awards focus on significant areas of the industry including leadership, environment, community, operational performance, partnerships, collaboration and more.

Minister for Local Government, Ron Hoenig, congratulated the winners across all categories and the council staff involved in all nominations.

"The people who work in local government are incredibly committed to improving the quality of life in their local communities," Mr Hoenig said.

"The winners and all the nominees clearly demonstrate the excellent work being done on the frontline by close to 50,000 staff working across our state's 128 councils. I congratulate them all on their achievements."

With over 180 outstanding nominations received, across 14 categories, the task of determining the winners was exceptionally challenging. Judges across all categories commented on the quality of projects being undertaken by NSW local government all demonstrating innovation, collaboration and leadership in delivering excellence for their communities. All councils are to be congratulated for their outstanding nominations.

Council was the winner in the Innovative Leadership Award category for a population over 150,000 for the Strategy Withstand, Adapt, Thrive. 

Council also received highly commended citations for its Forestville Library 24/7 initiative and for the redevelopment of the Mona Vale Surf Life Saving Club.

Mayor Sue Heins congratulated everyone involved in achieving the awards.

“I know our staff are very committed to achieving better outcomes for our community and these awards acknowledge that.

“It’s great that we came best in the field for our Resilience Strategy, which helps our community prepare for current and future challenges.

“The recent storms and floods, together with the bush fire emergency of 2019-20 and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic have shown the need for a cohesive, comprehensive strategy to withstand, adapt and thrive.

“Also, both the redevelopment of the Mona Vale Surf Club and the Forestville Library 24/7 initiative were outstanding projects and it’s great to see them get high recognition." Mayor Heins said.

The Mona Vale Surf Club was completed last year and is a purpose-built clubhouse designed to withstand the harsh coastal environment, and has solar panels and rainwater tanks to minimise its environmental footprint.

The build took just over 12 months to complete but was the result of more than ten years of planning.

In February this year, following a successful trial period, the Forestville 24/7 opened on a permanent basis.

Forestville Library is accessible 24 hours, 7 days a week to library members.

It provides a state-of-the-art, modern, flexible workspace for everyone from entrepreneurs, small business owners, and students when they need it, outside normal business hours.

Minister for Local Government, Ron Hoenig said: "The winners and all the nominees clearly demonstrate the excellent work being done on the frontline by close to 50,000 staff working across our state's 128 councils. I congratulate them all on their achievements." 

Acts Of Kindness Community Outreach: Winter Blanket and Coat Drive 2023

Can you help our homeless friends? It’s getting cold on the streets for our Homeless street friends and we need YOUR help. Do you have any Blankets, Sleeping bags, doonas or Coats you don’t use? We accept New or Clean Good Condition second hand items 

Drop off points at Warriewood, Inner West and Mount Annan. Please get in touch for details, at: https://aokcommunityoutreach.com/


Picnic In The Park At Avalon Beach A Great Success

Picnic in the Park, Dunbar Park on Saturday morning, June 3rd 2023, hosted by Northern Beaches Council, was a great success - they sold 1,500 tickets. 

The Show seen here was The Busy Izzy and Friends show. Peppa Pigs 'Taking Turns' live show was on next!

Photos: courtesy Cr. Miranda Korzy




Sydney Wildlife Mobile Care Unit: Quilt Auction

This exquisite quilt has been handcrafted and donated to us by St Faith’s Quilting and Needlecraft Club!
They would like us to use it to raise funds for our wildlife patients.  Thank you, Judith, for delivering this wonderful gift to us.



We have listed it for Auction online!  Please place your bids here to win this one-of-a-kind masterpiece:

Team Island Boot Camp take on Push-up challenge

In June Team Island Boot Camp (Scotland Islanders) is taking part in The Push-Up Challenge. 

They are going to help shine the spotlight on the number of lives lost to suicide in 2021 and raise awareness of mental health. 

Funds raised by Team Island Boot Camp will go to Movember and their push for better mental health.

Feel free to join them or support a team member who is taking part. 

Help them push for better mental health.

ABHS June 2023 Meeting: ‘Royal’ Avalon golf links

The mid-year meeting of the Avalon Beach Historical Society will be held on TUESDAY 13 JUNE in the Annexe on Dunbar Park, starting at the usual 8pm.

Our mighty ‘Royal’ Avalon Golf links (along with other local courses) wasn’t looking so grand in recent years due to exceptionally heavy rains during March 2021 and the necessary restrictions placed on golfers due to the Covid virus era.

The course has lately been blessed with the arrival of a new and local greenkeeper full of competence and enthusiasm. 

Shannon Simmons and mate John Kljajic have both had experience at Monash and Elanora Country Club and have already created some very real and positive changes to the course. They’ve even rebirthed the old fountain on the 3rd hole which will hopefully bring about the return of the wood ducks and the dusky moorhens.

After 40 years of collecting, we now have a rather fabulous photographic history of the golf links with some recent additions.

At this stage the written history has reached around 2800 words and Geoff will use a shortened version as a prelude to the photographic presentation.

Around 1923 A.J.Small chose Dan Soutar to design the layout of the course.  Soutar had also designed the Elanora Country Club and the highly regarded Kingston Heath course in Melbourne. The Australian Golf Heritage Society was very keen to know of his association with the Avalon Golf Club.

As usual guests of members are very welcome to attend and to join us for supper afterwards.

We have quite a celebration night planned for our AGM/September meeting because it will be 40 years since we met for the first time. 

Geoff Searl OAM
President Avalon Beach Historical Society
Find out more at: abhs.org.au


NSW Government secures legislation to protect Sydney Water and Hunter Water from privatisation

June 2, 2023
The NSW Minns Government has successfully protected Sydney Water and Hunter Water from privatisation with the passage of the Constitutional Amendment (Sydney Water and Hunter Water) Bill 2023 through the Legislative Council on Thursday 1 June.

Both Sydney Water and Hunter Water are statutory state-owned corporations and will be safeguarded from privatisation as a result of tonight’s amendment to the Constitution Act.

The successful passage of the bill amends the Constitution Act to now require those 2 specific corporations, and their main undertakings, to remain in public ownership by ensuring that those entities may not be sold or disposed of.

The new provisions of the act prevent governments from selling off Sydney Water and Hunter Water. Only an Act of Parliament will be able to undo the privatisation protections.

In securing the passage of the bill, the Minns Government has agreed, with the support of the crossbench, to establish a parliamentary inquiry that will examine what can be done to safeguard and support other regional water utilities. This includes preventing privatisation, and an examination of any additional protections these assets might require now and into the future.

The joint select committee for the parliamentary inquiry will inquire into and report on the governance systems and regulatory and assurance framework for local water utilities and will consult with local government.

Premier Chris Minns said, 
“Before the election I made a commitment to protect Sydney Water in the constitution. Today my government has delivered on that promise."

“These 2 state owned corporations are crucial assets to how we live in NSW – they provide so many of us with the water we drink and use each day that it is simple common sense to lock in their public ownership and protect them from privatisation."

“With this new legislation we have effectively put a sphere of protection around both entities, preventing privatisation, preventing unreasonable price spikes and ensuring these essential assets will always belong to the people of NSW.”

Minister for Water Rose Jackson said,
“Today we have delivered on our election commitment to keep Sydney and Hunter Water in public hands."

“I want to thank the crossbench for their constructive involvement in this matter, and I am keen to hear what the Parliamentary Inquiry finds in terms of how we can better protect other regional water assets and secure the future of water services to all parts of NSW."

“This inquiry will be focussed on uncovering what our government can do to better support our water assets. We will be guided by the voices of our community and locals on the ground on how to best do this."

“This inquiry is just another example of how we are taking a serious approach to a serious issue and putting the views of the NSW people – in the case of this Inquiry, the people of regional NSW – front and centre in all our policymaking decisions.”

In Tune with Tony B

In Tune is a radio programme about our local community, culture and home-grown music, hosted by TonyB. Each week, Tony plays great local music and he chats with guests from local community causes and charities, about how they make a difference.

In this week's programme Tony chatted with Danielle Ballantine - CEO of Your Side yourside.org.au a non-profit organization that has been working tirelessly to create opportunities for people with disabilities, the elderly and their families. 

You can stream this and all previous programmes on demand here InTuneWithTonyB on Demand.

Stay tuned for more great programmes on InTune. 
 
Radio Northern Beaches
Fridays at 6pm
FM 88.7 or 90.3
Or live stream at https://www.rnb.org.au
Previous programmes, on demand at https://www.mixcloud.com/InTuneWithTonyB
If you would like to chat with Tony on air about your community cause or your music, please feel free to message the Facebook page  In Tune - Radio Programme | Facebook and feel free to like and share the page.

Public Amenities Upgrade: Rowland Reserve Bayview, feedback invited

Opens: Fri 19 May 2023
Closes: Sun 18 June 2023

Built in the early 1990s, the amenities block does not meet current accessibility standards. The facilities need to be upgraded, with the works identified in Council's renewal program for 2023.

Council have received grant funding under the NSW Government’s Places to Swim program, which supports the creation of places for the community to enjoy Sydney’s rivers, lakes and harbour.

These funds will be used to upgrade the amenities block to better support Sailability and community members with a requirement for enhanced facilities. Features include a new disability changing room and a family changing room, which will benefit all members of the community, including local residents and visitors, while they enjoy swimming and other recreation activities in the area.

View the plans and provide feedback at:


Concept image: NBC

Lock up your cars: thieves about

help at hand for first home buyers

June 1, 2023
First home buyers will enjoy significant savings after the NSW Parliament passed the First Home Buyer Legislation Amendment Bill 2023 to make stamp duty exemptions and concessions available to more people. 

This enacts a key commitment of the Minns Labor Government to implement a fairer, simpler way to help more first home buyers. 

Under the reforms, the stamp duty exemption threshold will rise from $650,000 to $800,000 on July 1, 2023.  

Additionally, stamp duty concessions will apply to properties worth between $800,000 and $1 million. 

The measures will see first home buyers save up to $31,090. 

The previous government’s unfair “forever” land tax scheme gave people paying between $1 million and $1.5 million much larger stamp duty reductions than those able to afford homes under $1m. 

That scheme will close on 30 June 2023.  However grandfathering provisions mean anyone who opted into it will be able to continue paying land tax until they sell their property.

The reform means that 84% of first home buyers will be able to access the assistance, giving them an advantage over investors bidding for the same property. 

Based on current market conditions, NSW Treasury expects around 8600 first home buyers each year to qualify for a total exemption from stamp duty, and 4400 people to enjoy a concessional rate of stamp duty. 

Examples of benefits of the changes:



Premier Chris Minns said,
“We promised to deliver a fairer and simpler way to help more first home buyers and that will become a reality from 1 July. 

“Our changes will help more first home buyers to take a step onto the property ladder.

“This legislation will also see us deliver on our promise to abolish the former government’s property tax, a forever tax on the family home.”   

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said,
“Five out of every six first home buyers will pay no stamp duty or a concessional rate under the new system. 

“Our simpler, fairer system will help first home buyers, allowing them to enter the market sooner and giving them a boost when competing with other buyers.”  

Edible Exhibition: 100 Cakes for 100 Years of Manly CWA - get involved!

Would you like to help Manly CWA celebrate their centenary? We invite everyone to be involved in our Edible Exhibition.

On Saturday 26th August we are holding our Edible Exhibition at St Matthew’s Manly. It will be a celebration of Manly Branch of the Country Women’s Association throughout the last 100 years with an exhibition and sale of 100 different tea cosies and 100 aprons. The focus will be the 100 cakes – each representing a different year and an event in the history of our area, state or the world.

The Edible Exhibition is a celebration of 100 years of community support by Manly Branch of the Country Women's Association. You are invited to nominate yourself to create a cake. Once you are registered you will then be given a year and information of things that might be represented for that year. Think: 2000 - Sydney Olympics - make 5 ring cakes and decorate to look like the Olympic rings; 1966 - Decimal currency - create a cake that is a coin or a note from the new currency.

You are welcome to knit, crochet, or sew a tea cosy or make an apron to donate to our exhibition. Contact manlycwa@gmail.com if you have any questions.

For the centenary of cakes, you are requested to register online to participate and in early July you will be given a year to create in a baked form.  

To assist in your creative decisions a list of things that happened in the year you are given. Cake will be delivered on the morning of 26th August and displayed along with the aprons and tea cosies which will be available for sale to raise funds to assist women and families throughout New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory. 



Winter Market Day: Scotland Island - Catherine Park call out for makers

Sunday 25 June, 10 - 1 pm: Calling all makers, artists and entrepreneurs! 
 
Do you have something you’d like to sell at a market stall at the June island café? It could be artwork, pottery, clothes, candles, books or... well, pretty much anything. 
 
Tables are $20. To book, please email floydcbg@ozemail.com.au. 


Narrabeen Sharks JRLFC: A sharks tale the Book Celebrates 90 years of the Narrabeen Sharks  

As the story goes, the Narrabeen Sharks JRLFC had its humble beginnings on March 7, 1932 in Jack McLean’s barber shop.   And so the rest is history. 

Recount the incredible stories, the memories, the pictures, and the spirit of this legendary club in a limited edition hardcover book.  

Hop on to our website and order your copy today.  Delivery or pick up is coming after Easter: https://narrabeensharks.com.au/shop/

We’ll also be hosting a book launch at the commencement of the A-Grade season – stay tuned for details.


Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary needs volunteers

The Auxiliary is looking for new members to help with our fund raising efforts.  New ideas and assistance with our stalls are very welcome.  Contact 0407 216 253 for more information.

The Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary members host a stall at Pittwater Place on the first Saturday of every month from 9am to 3pm selling knitting for babies and children, beanies, bedsocks and scarves for oldies, sewing items, craft and jams, raising funds for the rehabilitation and palliative care units.

Rig Recycle: Fishing Gear Items

Are you tired of seeing fishing gear and packaging waste end up in landfill? (or killing local seabirds and turtles?)
Rig Recycle is the first Australian initiative that collects recreational fishing and packaging items and diverts them from landfill through a repair, reuse and recycle framework.

In partnership with Recycle Mate, they've made it even easier to recycle your fishing gear waste! Simply search for your nearest Rig Recycle bin on their app. 

Don't have one at your local fishing store? Let them know and they will reach out to them themselves.♻️
Visit their website for more information. Visit: www.rigrecycle.org
More in this Issue's Aquatics Feature.


Mona Vale Residents Association

Mona Vale Residents Association is a community group encouraging involvement on important matters within the Mona Vale area.



Volunteers Needed: Red Cross Avalon Shop

Please talk to the people in the shop or telelphone if you can help out each week, for around 4 hours.
Address: Shop 4 & 5 / 48 Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon 2107 NSW; Phone: 02 9918 0952

Please Slow Down: Wildlife Crossing

Phoebe the Swamp Wallaby weighed less than a kilogram when she was orphaned on the roadside after her mother was hit and killed by a vehicle. Fortunately, Phoebe was uninjured, taken to a local vet and raised and then released by Sydney Wildlife volunteer Jane.

While Phoebe was fortunate, other native birds and animals are not so lucky. So, if you’re returning home after your summer holiday (or just out and about on Australia Day), please slow down - particularly at dawn and dusk and in areas identified with wildlife crossing signs, for your safety and the welfare of our wildlife.

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 by Sydney Wildlife Rescue

Community News

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