February 1 - 28, 2026: Issue 651

Front Page Issue 651

Week Two February 2026: Issue 651 (published Sunday February 8 2026)

New Analysis Shows Mackellar MP Dr. Sophie Scamps Tops Time Spent Doing Her Job

Two Narrabeen Sports High School Teachers, One Curl Curl PS Teacher Honoured for 50+ Years of Public Education

Aquatics Milla Coco Brown - Lucas Hickson Win 2026 Kim Burton Pro Junior 

ARTEXPRESS is back! and Out Front 2026 celebrates the next generation artists - HSC Artists

NSW Women of the Year 2026 finalists announced: Several Locals named

Zali Steggall Calls For Royal Commission into Domestic Violence: 6 Women lost in 2026, so far  

Marine Rescue NSW volunteers respond to almost 700 incidents in January 2026

Pictures Dolphin Park Bushland Reserve: a stroll through this Right-of-way Park between Dolphin Crescent and Barrenjoey Road

DIY Ideas: A Job For Life: Apprentice Carpenter + Fee-Free Courses + Commencement Tool List + How to Look After Your Tools

North Sydney Council Refutes State Government Claims of Consultation on Future of Cammeray Golf Course

Park Bench Philosophers eSafety report shows while tech giants have made some progress they still have a long way to go in stamping out online child abuse + Big tech companies are still failing to tackle child abuse material online

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Week One February 2026: Issue 651 (published Sunday February 1 2026)

Profile of the Week: A community legacy: Art Auction of works from the Home of Susan Duncan & Bob Story to Support West Pittwater RFS - Open now, closing Monday 9 March at midnight - Live auction: Saturday 7 March, Elvina Reserve, 3.30pm - Approximately 20 works will be concluded live

History: On International Holocaust Remembrance Day 2026 we Remember those Lost and the work of Sister Muriel Knox Doherty, Of Avalon Beach, at the Bergen- Belsen Camp

Vale Mike Fletcher AM -  9.10.33 - 30.1.26

The fauna bridge on Mona Vale Road East – will it be a bridge to nowhere?

Pittwater MP Launches Survey Asking For Local Knowledge on Sharks: State Government Announces Further $4.2 million to Improve Shark Safety this Summer + How to reduce the risk of an encounter with a shark

Aquatics Synthetic grass fragments are increasingly prevalent microplastics in waterways across Metropolitan Sydney: Report finds Microplastics Have tripled in Sydney's waterways in three years - Manly Cove's 'very high' reading -NSW microplastics report 2026 

NSW Government announces New Northern Beaches Hospital 'High Volume Surgery Hub' to power through waitlist: Pittwater MP Confirms Locals Will Have Priority

Summer BirdFest 2026: Play antics of New Locals - Blue-faced Honeyeaters Breeding In Pittwater

Australian Sailing Team Appoints Pittwater's Jim Colley as 49erFX National Coach

Pantaenius Pittwater Regatta 2026: titans versus raiders by Di Pearson - held from 13 to 15 February, Entry closes at 1700 hours on 2 February. Late entries may be accepted at an additional fee.

Autism Swim’s Dippers program launches at Queenscliff: Inclusive Beach & Ocean Safety - Free, starts Feb, 2026

Manly Writer's Festival Announces 2026 Program: Exploring Ideas, Storytelling and Civic Debate - Thomas Keneally AO to open four-day festival, 19–22 March 2026, Tickets now open

Community Concern As Another Tree Up for Destruction by the Council - Doubling of prior Bassett Street Mona Vale DA proposal under NSW government SSD's provides stark illustration of impact on local environment of laws written 'for developers' (Feedback closes Feb 2, 2026) - Community Objections Being silenced or Ignored - Dec, 2025 Address to Council by Secretary of Protect Pittwater

Profile of the Week SOS (Save Our Suburb) Mona Vale: New Residents Group Launched Shines light on Problems of Overdeveloping a reclaimed floodplain

SOS (Save Our Suburb) Mona Vale is a grassroots resident action group, started in response to massive government over-reach, committed to keeping Mona Vale in the hands of its community. Formed just weeks ago, SOS Mona Vale has 100 signed-up members and thousands of followers.

The next Meeting for SOS Mona Vale will be held Thursday February 26 from 6pm at Mona Vale Memorial Hall. All welcome.

If you miss that one, Thursday March 19, same time and same venue, is next.

The group states:

''We are not aligned to any political group. 

We are not opposed to regulated appropriate development. In fact, we welcome it.

The State government's blanket rezoning of half the streets in Mona Vale allows greedy developers to prey on the heart of our community by legislation - 6+ storey luxury apartment buildings sideline the Council's Place Plan (designed in consultation with the community) - does nothing to make housing "more affordable" and defines the community as "a number of roofs". 

Mona Vale residents are much more then that.''

This week, a few insights into the what, where and why. Our thanks to John David, one of the Convenors of SOS Mona Vale, for his help with this Profile.
History Careel Head Road Shops and the North Bangalley- Burrowong Creeks: Some History by William (Bill) James Goddard II, Geoff Searl OAM, John Illingsworth and A J Guesdon

An absolute downpour of 340.5mm at Palm Beach, 258.5mm at Mackerel Beach, 191.5 and 180.5mm at Newport in the 24 hours of January 17-18, Saturday to Sunday, and flooding along the Barrenjoey road from Palm Beach Golf Club, at Pittwater Park, on the corner of Careel Head road, Careel Bay, and through the shopping area of Avalon Beach at the other end, along the 1860’s named ‘Priest's Flat’, coupled with the application to excavate at Careel Bay to facilitate a Dan Murphy’s outlet atop a Childcare Centre, with the ‘feedback’ period running from December 16 to January 15, when everyone has ‘clocked off’ for a few weeks, inspires a look into what may occur during this council approved DA build.

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter:

February 1 2026


Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Safer Internet Day 2026

Pittwater Online News supports @eSafetyOffice Safer Internet Day Tuesday 10 February 2026. We rely on the internet for almost everything in our lives, so online safety is more important than ever.  We’ll be kicking off our year with conversations about [how our staff] can stay safe online.

What will you be doing to help create safer, more positive online spaces? 

Safer Internet Day is a global day of action dedicated to raising awareness of online safety. On this page, you’ll find everything you need to make online safety visible in your school, workplace or community. Visit: eSafety.gov.au/SID

Mona Vale SLSC's New Surf Boat

MVSLSC launched a new surf boat just before Christmas 2025. Late last year the club was excited to share some fantastic news; 'The Pantry Manly generously agreed to purchase a new Surf Boat for our growing boat crews, and it has arrived.'

The Pantry’s owner, Sean Blasdall, is a proud nippers parent and has been a surf club member for several years. When the opportunity came up to support the club in such a meaningful way, Sean was more than happy to help our boat program continue to grow.'' MVSLSC said

''If you’ve been around the club on a Sunday morning, chances are you’ve seen Sean behind the BBQ, lending a hand like so many of our volunteers. He’s also the reason our BBQ crew now look so sharp in their Pantry aprons.

Sean oversees two local favourites in Manly — The Pantry Manly, perfectly positioned beachfront at the end of The Corso, and Manly Grill, a more family-friendly spot just down the road.

Next time you’re planning a meal out in Manly, we encourage you to show your support and enjoy a meal at one of Sean’s great venues. We’re incredibly grateful for his ongoing support of our club — thank you, Sean and The Pantry Manly team!''

The big reveal saw the new surf boat named after long-term Mona Vale SLSC Sweep and Mona legend Matthew 'Rude Boy' Collins - who was a bit surprised with the honour but then took the new boat and one of his crews out for a celebratory row.

Huge thanks to Sean Blasdall and all the great works he does here in Pittwater and at Manly.

That inaugural christening of the Matthew Collins -:

Maximum fares released for private ferry services

Announced: December 12, 2025
IPART has released our final report on the review of maximum fares for private ferry services in Sydney, the Central Coast and the North Coast.

The NSW Government asked IPART to set maximum fares for the following private ferry routes: Church Point – Scotland Island, Cronulla – Bundeena, Lane Cove – Circular Quay, Palm Beach – Mackerel Beach, Woy Woy – Empire Bay and Yamba – Iluka.

We’ve also been asked to recommend fares for the Palm Beach – Ettalong route.

“Private ferries provide important public transport for local communities, and our decisions aim to ensure these services remain accessible and sustainable” said Dr Darryl Biggar.

“We’ve set new maximum fares for each service, effective from 1 January 2026”. 

“The Tribunal’s review was informed by extensive consultation, including a public hearing, stakeholder submissions and a passenger survey. 

Community feedback made it clear that affordability and service viability matter to passengers and operators. We’ve listened and reflected these concerns in our final decisions.” 

Under the Tribunal’s decisions, maximum fares for an adult, single-trip ticket will rise in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for:
  • Church Point (Scotland Island and Western Foreshore of Pittwater) (increase from $12.00 in 2025 to $12.30 in 2026)
  • Cronulla to Bundeena (increase from $9.10 in 2025 to $9.40 in 2026)
  • Yamba to Iluka (increase from $11.60 in 2025 to $11.90 in 2026)
  • Woy Woy to Empire Bay (increase from $10.20 in 2025 to $10.50 in 2026).
These prices would also increase by CPI each subsequent year from 2027 to 2030.

The maximum fare for an adult, single-trip ticket for: 
  • Lane Cove to Circular Quay will decrease from $11.90 in 2025 to $7.90 in 2026 and then increase by CPI each subsequent year from 2027 to 2030.
  • Palm Beach to Mackerel Beach will increase from $9.70 in 2025 to $10.80 in 2026 and continue increasing to $16.20 in 2030. We have balanced setting affordable maximum fares that connect communities and the ongoing viability of operators.
We have recommended the fares on the Palm Beach to Ettalong route to increase by CPI (increase from $14.70 in 2025 to $16.70 in 2030).

Private ferry operators may choose to set fares lower than our maximum fares, or to offer discounts.

The Final Report is available on the IPART website.

Warriewood Community Centre Build: Update

Council has stated in a January 2026 update for this project that:

''Construction of the new Warriewood Community Centre is progressing well. Despite some recent weather delays, roofing is nearing completion, and work on external cladding, window framing and glazing is underway. Once the building is weather-tight, internal services and fitout will ramp up.

Below-ground services and landscaping preparation are continuing. The site office will soon be relocated to allow works on the western carpark to commence. We will ensure local residents and key stakeholders are informed in advance of any temporary access changes or traffic impacts associated with these works.

The project remains on track for completion in early 2026, subject to unforeseen delays.''


Barrenjoey High School P&C Welcome event: Feb. 19

Narrabeen Sports High School 2026 Open Night

Come and join us for our 2026 Open Night on Tuesday 3 March, from 4:00pm to 6:00pm. 

This event is open to all prospective students and parents and is a wonderful opportunity to experience our school community first-hand.

On the evening you will:
  • - Meet our dedicated teachers and staff
  • - Enjoy guided tours of our school facilities
  • - Explore faculty Teaching and Learning displays
  • - Hear the Principal’s Address at 4:00pm
  • - Enjoy student music performances
  • - Learn more about our Sports Academy Program
We look forward to seeing you there!

Feedback on Middle Harbour flood study findings Invited

The council is asking residents of Belrose, Davidson, Frenchs Forest, Forestville, and Killarney Heights to find out about flood risk in the area and share their views on the draft Middle Harbour Flood Study. This new Study uses the latest technology and data to better understand local flood risks and improve emergency planning.

The draft Study replaces the 2010 Frenchs Creek Flood Study, showing fewer flood-affected properties in this area due to modelling with improved technology and more up-to-date rainfall data. However, by looking at a significantly wider area not previously investigated for flooding, it identifies more properties at risk overall. The Study provides information on flood levels, depths, and hazards, includes feedback from recent floods and considers climate change impacts.

Mayor Sue Heins said the release of the draft Study marks a significant step forward for the community.

“This draft Flood Study is a major step in making our neighbourhoods safer and better prepared for future floods.

“We’ve listened to the experts, community members, used the latest technology and now we want to share that with you and hear back from you.

Flooding can seriously affect homes and infrastructure. 

The council states the updated Study will guide future development, help emergency planning, and build a safer community.

During the exhibition period, property owners within the study area will receive a letter if their property has been identified as being flood affected. This letter will outline how they can find out more about the study and its findings and how to make a submission. Residents will be able to book in for face-to-face meetings with council flood officers and a consultant, receive updates through council e-newsletters and give feedback on the council’s Your Say webpage for this work.

The next stage of the process will be to undertake the flood risk management study and plan, which will investigate potential options to reduce and manage flood risk in the area.

The draft Study is available to view on the council’s Middle Harbour Flood Study (draft) webpage and submissions are now open and will close March 9.

The draft Study has been prepared with financial assistance from the NSW and Commonwealth Governments through the Natural Disaster Resilience Program.

Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week

Peaches and Cream

  • Peaches 2yo Tibetan Spaniel X
  • Cream 2yo Moodle 

Peaches and Cream are a bonded pair of boys who want to stay together. They are very sweet and affectionate and social with other small dogs. Peaches has a cherry eye that still needs repair (prolapsed third eyelid). They are cuddly dogs who want to sleep on your bed. Cream has a low-shedding coat that needs grooming and Peaches has a medium coat that needs regular brushing. They both weigh around 5kg. They are is desexed , fully vaccinated, heartworm free and chipped. Their adoption cost TOGETHER is $1400

Huntrix 

12mths Domestic Short Haired Cat

Huntrix arrived at the council pound with tiny newborn babies, terrified and unsure of the world. When Doggierescue rescued her and brought her into our care with her little family, she was so frightened we couldn’t get near her. But with time, patience, and lots of gentle care…Huntrix blossomed.

This beautiful tabby girl has transformed into the most affectionate, smoochy, cuddly young mumma. She raised her kittens with absolute devotion and grace, and now that her babies are ready for their own homes, it’s finally Huntrix’s turn to be cherished.

Huntrix Personality; Initially shy with new people — she may need a little time and a calm environment to settle. Once she trusts you, she is loving, gentle, and affectionate. Loves head rubs, cuddle time. Has the most stunning green eyes that will absolutely melt you. 

Ideal Home; A patient adopter willing to give her a gentle introduction to home life. A quieter household where she can settle at her own pace. Could suit a single person, couple, or family with respectful older children. Needs a safe indoor only home (or indoor with secure outdoor enclosure). Her adoption fee is $220. All our cats come desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV/FeLV tested if over 6 months old and microchipped. 

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

Petition: Stop Politicians from spamming & harvesting our data

Sign at: www.katechaney.com.au/spam-and-data-petition

We want political parties to communicate - but without bombarding us or harvesting our personal information.

This is a chance for the Government to act to protect voters.

Political Spam

We’re tired of getting swamped with political texts. Political parties shouldn’t be exempt from the Spam Act 2003 - they need to follow the same rules as every business. Prime Minister Albanese said on ABC Radio, “I certainly think that would be a reasonable thing to do, to ban the texts."

Data Harvesting - Postal Vote Applications

Millions of Australians vote by post. This process should be between you and the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) - not political parties fishing for your data. Right now, major parties send postal vote application forms – by SMS, email or to your mailbox - along with their political ads and ask you to send your application to a “processing centre” they control. They can then collect your personal details to use and share before passing the application on to the AEC. As AEC Commissioner Jeff Pope said on 31 March 2025, "Concerns about party postal vote applications through unsolicited outreach is the number one complaint we hear from voters at almost every federal election"

Governments in Victoria and Western Australia have fixed this. NSW is next. 

It’s time for the Federal Government to do the same!

More in report: Bill to Stop Politicians Harvesting your Data Via Postal Votes Introduced: Petition to support Bill

Report Hate Crimes

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

If you are subjected to hate on social media or online you should keep evidence by taking screen shots of the abuse including usernames, URLs and any other relevant information. You can report the abuse directly to the platform and report in person at any Police Station.

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

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

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

In an Emergency call Triple Zero (000). If not urgent, you can report online at crimestoppers.com.au or call 1800 333 000 or report in person at any Police Station.  
For more information, visit  www.police.nsw.gov.au/crime/hate_crimes

Community News + what ran in each Issue

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

January 2025  February 2025  March 2025  April 2025  May 2025  June 2025  July 2025  August 2025  September 2025  October 2025  November 2025  December 2025

January 2026  February 2026

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. 

Simply enter:
  1. The position via GPS or road and suburb
  2. The date
  3. The animal

Slow Down: Wildlife Crossing

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


 
Photo: Phoebe the Swamp Wallaby by Jane Notice

Mona Vale Residents Association

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


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

Letters to the Editor

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

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

Mow for Ol'Mate in March

Sunday, 1 March 2026 - 09:00 am to Tuesday, 31 March 2026 - 05:00 pm
It's a simple idea with a big heart: neighbours helping neighbours, right in their own backyards. By mowing a couple of lawns for older members of the community, you're not just tidying up - you're checking in, having a chat and making sure they're safe, supported and doing OK at home.

A freshly mown lawn can mean independence, dignity and peace of mind - and sometimes a reason to to stop, say hello and connect. So, grab a mower in March and be part of something special in the Northern Beaches Community.

Join this amazing community mow-ment today. Register your interest via enquiries@mwpcare.com.au or call 9913 3244.

OR Are you over 65 and would like your lawn mowed? Call our friendly team on 9913 3244 to register your interest.

Contact information
MWP Community Care, email: enquiries@mwpcare.com.au


Victa rotary lawnmower and Mervyn Victor Richardson of Careel Bay, the owner of the company - 1955 - photo by Jack Hickson, Australian Photographic Agency - 01148. Taken by Australian Photographic Agency for account: Graves, Hayes & Baker 1642/55.

North Sydney Council to Apply for 52.66% Rise In Rates

At an Extraordinary Meeting held on January 21 2026 North Sydney Council  resolved to apply to IPART for a 52.66% cumulative increase to rates over three years (including the rate peg) together with an increase to the minimum residential and business rates of $396.08 above rate peg over the three-year period.

The council stated the submission will be focused on financial sustainability and infrastructure management while providing modest funding to respond to community needs and growth pressures.

The council had to submit its application by Monday 2 February. IPART will run a public consultation process where community members can provide feedback directly. 

IPART states its community consultation on special variation and minimum rate increase applications will commence on 17 February 2026 and run for 3 weeks. 

'During this period, we invite community feedback to help the Tribunal make an informed decision when assessing a council's application.

Your submission should address one or more of the criteria set by the Office of Local Government, as outlined below. You can provide feedback via a survey or through a submission (see here for IPART’s submissions policy). ' IPART states

More in IPART's webpage:

Wildlife rehabilitators to get $9 million in funding

On Sunday February 1 2026 there was welcome news as the Minns Government announced an allocation of nine million dollars to boost support for the thousands of volunteers and veterinary professionals caring for injured, sick, and orphaned native animals.

Led by the Parliamentary Secretary for the Environment, Ms Trish Doyle MP, the NSW Wildlife Rehabilitation Sector Review commenced in July 2024 and involved extensive consultation across the state.

The review was undertaken to address funding, training, and logistical challenges for over 8,600 dedicated wildlife volunteers rescuing over 110,000 animals annually.

The Minns Government announced Recommendations from the review will be adopted in full. This includes reinstating the much-loved Wildlife Heroes initiative with a centralised resource hub that is proposed to support wellbeing and sector cohesion.

Actions from the review include:
  • Expanding training and upskilling carers for situations like fires and natural disasters
  • Grants to cover the cost of food, bandages, medication and vaccinations
  • Upgrading mental health support for volunteers, including access to counselling and peer support networks
  • Relaunching of the Wildlife Heroes initiative, which will act as a centralised hub for information.
The $9 million package will include a number of support programs for small operational expenses and collaborative initiatives for rehabilitators, veterinarians, and researchers.

NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe said:
“We’ve known that our carers were under immense pressure and this review gives us a clear direction to support the work they do.

“The work our carers do to rehabilitate our native animals is irreplaceable.

“I’m thrilled to announce this funding, and I’m committed to working with the sector to implement these recommendations for our rehabilitators and our wildlife.”

NSW Parliamentary Secretary Trish Doyle said:
“It's been a privilege to hear the stories of our wildlife rehabilitators. I’ve been moved by the dedication, resilience and passion for our native wildlife.

“I want to thank everyone who has worked with me to pull together this incredible piece of work to make a real difference in the sector.”

One of the Founders of Sydney Wildlife and a representative of the NSW Wildlife Council, Pittwater's Sonja Elwood Wesley, was on hand for the announcement, stating this was an amazing morning and a first for the volunteer wildlife rehab sector in NSW.

''Big thanks to Minister Penny Sharpe MLC and Parliamentary Secretary Trish Doyle MP for their support and recognition of all the hard work of the volunteers in our sector.''

Photo: Sonja (left with white t-shirt), and NSW Environment Minister, The Hon. Penny Sharpe MLC, at the announcement. Photo: NSW Government

New NSW Children’s Guardian Appointed

Announced: Wednesday February 4, 2026
Ms Rachael Ward has today been permanently appointed as the Children’s Guardian for NSW.

Ms Ward has been the Acting Children’s Guardian since March 2025 and during that time has demonstrated strong and stable leadership as the head of the Office of the Children’s Guardian.

The Children’s Guardian is an independent statutory officeholder responsible for the safety of children and young people in NSW, including the administration of the Working with Children Check system, and the Reportable Conduct and Child Safe schemes.

Ms Ward brings a depth of legal and professional experience, with over 24 years of specialisation in child protection law. Ms Ward is a member of the Children’s Court Advisory Committee and was previously the Director of Child Law at the Department of Communities and Justice.

During her time as the Acting Children’s Guardian, Ms Ward has focused on rebuilding the capability of the regulator and increasing compliance and enforcement activities.

The Minns Labor Government is investing in improving children’s safety, with the Office of the Children’s Guardian recently receiving a $5.5 million funding boost over two years, meaning the office is now more than $10 million a year better off compared to 2022-23.

Ms Ward’s appointment is for a five-year term and will expire in February 2031.

Minister for Families and Communities, Kate Washington said:

“I am pleased to confirm the permanent appointment of Rachael Ward as the Children’s Guardian.

“As the Acting Children’s Guardian, Ms Ward has demonstrated strong leadership and professionalism driven by her longstanding dedication to child safety.

“I acknowledge and welcome Ms Ward’s proactive approach to compliance activities. The Minns Labor Government is investing in stronger enforcement of child safety laws, with the Office of the Children’s Guardian now more than $10 million a year better off.”

Children’s Guardian, Rachael Ward said:

“I am honoured to be appointed as the Children’s Guardian. Over the past year it has been my privilege to lead the excellent staff at the Office of the Children's Guardian and I look forward to our continued work to make NSW safer for children and young people, and people living with disability.”

AOK: Urgent - Thursday Volunteers Needed

Every Thursday, we serve a hot meal to our homeless community — and right now, we urgently need help to make that happen.
We’re looking for one or two reliable people with transport and a working oven who can help heat pre-cooked meals each Thursday.

Quick details:
  • Food already cooked
  • Trays provided
  • Pick up Warriewood – Thursday morning
  • Heat in your oven
  • Return hot by 4pm
That’s it. No cooking. Just heating.

This has become a critical weekly gap, and having consistent Thursday support would take enormous pressure off and ensure our community doesn’t miss out on a hot meal.

If you:
💜 Live near Warriewood 
💜 Have a working oven
💜 Can help most Thursdays (even fortnightly)
👉 Please comment or message us ASAP. at: 

If Thursdays aren’t possible but you’d like to help in another way, still reach out — we have other roles too.

Thank you for helping us keep our community fed with dignity.
— Sarah & the AOK team

MWP Care Seeking Volunteers

Our business relies on the kindness of strangers...
Looking for a way to give back without giving up your lifestyle?

Become part of our Volunteer IMPACT Club and gain access to exercise classes, social events, Silver Surfers, tables at trivia as well as training and development workshops! Plus – have your petrol re-imbursed!!

Volunteering with MWP fits around your life and your schedule, letting you make a real impact in your local community. Enjoy meeting like-minded people, learning new skills, and knowing that your time is changing lives every day.
Your Time. Your Way. Your Impact. 

Find out more here: mwpcare.com.au/get-involved

Inaugural Surf Lifesaving Red & Yellow Day

On Wednesday 4 March 2026, Surf Life Saving Australia will launch the very first Red & Yellow Day, a new nationwide celebration of Surf Life Saving and the thousands of volunteer surf lifesavers who keep our beaches safe.

With one month to go until the inaugural Red & Yellow Day, Surf Life Saving Australia is calling on everyone across Australia to take part, by wearing the colours, donating, fundraising, signing up at your local club and by staying beach-safe.

Red & Yellow Day is an opportunity to:

  • Improve public awareness of the vital work of Surf Life Saving and the thousands of volunteer surf lifesavers around the country
  • Educate communities, families and individuals about essential water safety information
  • Increase fundraising to maintain and replace equipment, train volunteer surf life savers and deliver water safety education in communities
  • Inspire more Australians to get involved and support their local community

Events and activations are being planned around the country as the countdown to March 4 begins, with more information about national and local activity to be shared in the lead up to Red & Yellow Day.

Surf Life Saving Australia CEO, Adam Weir said:

“With one month until Red & Yellow Day, now is the time for schools, clubs, businesses, and individuals across Australia to get behind the day.

“Red & Yellow Day is an opportunity for all of us to show our support for the thousands of volunteer surf lifesavers who give their time to keep our beaches safe.

“The best way you can get involved is by wearing red and yellow on March 4, and by always swimming between the red and yellow flags.”

Surf Life Saving Australia’s major national partner DHL is supporting Red & Yellow Day by delivering up to 1000 Red & Yellow Day Party Packs nationally, with 100% of the purchase price going directly to supporting volunteer surf lifesaving services.

The Red & Yellow Day Party Pack contains everything you need to host a Red & Yellow Day event and are available to purchase now via redandyellowday.org.au.

For inspiration on how to get involved on March 4, check out the Red & Yellow Day campaign video below, or to learn more about Red & Yellow Day, visit redandyellowday.org.au.

By getting behind Red & Yellow Day, you’ll be supporting the vital work of Surf Life Saving volunteers around the country.

When you back the surf lifesavers on Red & Yellow Day, you can help save lives too.

Bronze Medallion Course at WBSLSC

Ready to take the next step in surf lifesaving?
Our Bronze Medallion Course starts 12 February and is the foundation qualification for becoming a surf lifesaver. Learn surf awareness, rescue techniques, first aid and teamwork - and be part of keeping our beaches safe.

Development Coordination Authority (DCA) changes: Feedback invited

The Minns Government has announced it is putting the proposed regulatory changes to create the Development Coordination Authority (DCA) on public exhibition.

The government states the changes will make navigating the planning system faster and easier for applicants and councils by centralising State agency advice and decision-making so applicants no longer need to navigate at times conflicting and confusing advice from up to 22 different areas of Government.

Through the DCA, the NSW Government is putting a stop to unnecessary delays ending a system which saw a DA with just one referral take an average of 60 days longer to assess than a DA without one, and where each additional referral added up to 100 days to assessment timeframes.

Under proposed regulatory changes the need for expert advice from the DCA and other bodies on local DAs will be consolidated from more than 800 requirements across 175 planning instruments into a single list aligned with the government's State priorities.

The government states this list will sit in State Environmental Planning Policy (Planning Systems) 2021, making it easier to access and understand for all users of the planning system and safeguarding areas like the environment, heritage, bush fire management and infrastructure operation with the DCA as a single point of contact on all State matters.

The DCA will be required to meet strict timelines.

The government states the DCA and other bodies will have 28 days to provide feedback on development applications (DAs), providing consistent response times and helping speed up assessment times.

The DCA, began initial operations in December and is already helping connect applicants to the right areas of Government and providing post-development consent support so projects can begin construction sooner.

Its main stated functions - to bring together experts from a broad range of state agencies so conflicts can be resolved quickly and allow a single, coordinated response - will begin on 1 July. Find out more here.

The government states the proposed changes are part of a landmark overhaul of the State’s planning system designed to tackle delays and complexity adding to construction costs and create a faster, fairer and modern planning system in NSW.

How DCA will work and proposed regulatory changes, will be exhibited from Thursday, 29 January to Wednesday, 25 February 2026. To have your say, visit www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/draftplans/exhibition/have-your-say-establishing-development-coordination-authority-dca

This is the first public exhibition to implement the landmark Planning System Reforms Bill 2025 which passed parliament in November 2025.

See: Scruby slams government and opposition teaming up to make it easy for developers as NSW Planning System Reform Bill passes - community asks: who are these elected Representatives actually representing?

Narrabeen Lakes Amateur Swimming Club: Saturday Afternoons

Some say the key to keeping New Year's resolutions is to make them specific, measurable, and achievable. If health and wellness is yours, then swim clubs can help you achieve them.  It’s an easy exercise habit to develop, super cheap ($40 for the rest of the season), with measurable improvements.  And its heaps of fun and so good for your wellbeing.  

Just walking down the path to our beautiful Narrabeen ocean and lagoon sheds will help you destress and then you get to swim in our spectacular pool with some pretty wonderful people (at the most magical time of the year to swim).  

You can learn more about us at www.nlasc.com.au or just come down and swim a length of two with us and see what we're all about.  

You'll find us at Narrabeen rockpool every Saturday arvo from 1pm.

Now Open: funding round for the NSW Government's Holiday Break Autumn/Winter 2026 program

If you want to bring young people together during the Autumn and/or Winter school holidays then this may be good news; a new round of the NSW Government’s Holiday Break funding is now open

Start preparing now so you can be ready to submit as soon as the funding round opens! We will notify you once the funding round opens.

Key program guidelines:
  • Applicants are encouraged to design high quality, fun and engaging activities for the exclusive participation of young people aged 12-24 years.
  • Applicants can deliver the activities in the Autumn and/or winter holidays, and apply for both rounds in a single application.
  • Eligible organisations can apply for funding which can be split across the autumn and/or winter school holidays. Additional travel loading is still available per organisation if an external supplier is needed to deliver the program in remote or very remote parts of NSW.
  • Successful applicants will receive one funding agreement for the program.
Please email grants@officeforyouth.nsw.gov.au with any questions, or find out more by visiting nsw.gov.au/HolidayBreak.        
NSW Office for Youth

Oppose the Planning Reforms: Petition

Liberals have worked with Labor to radically reform NSW's planning rules to be developer-led. 

NSW is implementing the biggest reforms in 50 years - overriding council-led planning and existing planning controls, and reducing community voices in planning decisions. 

These blanket planning laws disregard strategic council-led planning and centralise state-power, opening up the risk of corruption and lack of transparency in decision making. 

Although some mum and dad developers will welcome some streamlining, the reality is that we will face a development onslaught that will allow developers more scope to build where they want, when they want. 

We all knew the NSW Government was focused on delivering housing and was going to embark on these reforms, but we thought there would be resistance from the Opposition. Instead, the Liberal party worked with the government. 

"We are now a pro-supply, yimby-based (Yes In My Back Yard) party... getting government out of the way and letting developers build houses," according to Liberal MLC the Hon. Chris Rath.

I have spoken in parliament against these reforms and was one of only four MPs out of 93 who voted against these reforms in the Legislative Assembly. Please view my speech for details on the reform. 

We must continue this fight, which is likely to be long and difficult. Many small groups are popping up, but we are stronger together. 

This petition will allow me to build a co-ordinated campaign and keep you informed on planning. 

If you want to keep community voice in planning decisions and balanced developments that protect the environment, please sign my petition and remember to tell us if you are affected by any development applications or offers to purchase your property.

Jacqui Scrub,
MP for Pittwater

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