The Local Voice Since 1991
COMING TO
YOUR RESCUE
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF
OUR MARINE VOLUNTEERS
MISSING ‘LINK’
NEW HOSPITAL BUS
PLANS REVEALED
OFFLEASH
DOG TRIAL
WHY WON’T COUNCIL
TAKE THE LEAD?
WONDERS
OF SCIENCE
BOB MORAN & HIS
‘DISCOVERY SHED’
NOVEMBER 2018
FREE
pittwaterlife
+ GLENN SHORROCK
PITTWATER PADDLE
GREAT BREKKIE IDEAS
MARKET
MONTH!
FAMILY FUN DAYS OUT IN AVALON,
NARRABEEN, MONA VALE & NEWPORT
Editorial
Silver lining to Pasadena saga
The saga over the compulsory
acquisition of the Pasadena
site at Church Point attracted
plenty of press in 2018; not all
of it was complimentary, as
ratepayers were left wondering
if they had been sold a pup by
the previous administrator.
But finally a great outcome.
After backing out of the deal
after the owner refused its
offer, Council went cap in hand
to local MP Rob Stokes to see if
he could secure the allocated
funding for Pasadena – believed
to be more than $5 million
– for other council projects.
(Credit here to Narrabeen Ward
Councillor Rory Amon for
getting the ball rolling.)
In late October, Mr Stokes
announced $2.5 million of
the kitty for Pasadena would
be deposited into Council
coffers to help pay for the
redevelopment of the Mona Vale
Surf Life Saving Club.
Even better, we hear there
will be more announcements
of funding for other Council
projects in coming months.
* * *
October’s wild, wet and
windy weather saw more
delays in the dredging at
Ettalong but we hear ferry
services between Palm Beach
and Ettalong are expected to be
finished by mid November.
Terrigal MP Adam Crouch
says the dredging contractor,
Fantasea Cruising and the
Department of Industry are
doing everything possible
to see services recommence.
Let’s hope everything’s back to
normal before the December
peak visitor period.
* * *
Our villages will come to life
with markets and festivals
in Mona Vale, Avalon, Newport
and Narrabeen in coming
weeks.
Get out there and enjoy these
fun-filled days – but also pop
into the local shops and help
support our businesses in the
run up to Christmas. They need
your help! – Nigel Wall
The Local Voice Since 1991
NOVEMBER 2018 3
FREE LOCAL
MONTHLY
INDEPENDENT
DISTRIBUTION
32,000
Delivered to householders
& businesses throughout
the Pittwater area at the
beginning of each month.
AFFORDABLE
RATES &
LONG-LIFE
EXPOSURE
CALL
US TO
DISCUSS
YOUR AD!
Tel: 0438 123 096
PO Box 170
Mona Vale 1660
Email:
info@pittwaterlife.com.au
Website:
www.pittwaterlife.com.au
Publisher: Nigel Wall
Managing Editor: Lisa Offord
Graphic Design: CLS Design
Photography: iStock / Staff
Contributors: Rosamund
Burton, Gabrielle Bryant, Matt
Cleary, Brian Hrnjak, Jennifer
Harris, Nick Carroll, Janelle
Bloom, Sue Carroll, Dr. John
Kippen, Geoff Searl.
Distribution:
John Nieuwenhof & Gill Stokes
pitlifewalkers@gmail.com
Published by
Word Count Media Pty Ltd.
ACN 149 583 335
ABN 95 149 583 335
Printed by Rural Press
Phone: 02 4570 4444
Vol 28 No 4
Celebrating 27 years
COMING TO
YOUR RESCUE
The Local Voice Since 1991
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF
OUR MARINE VOLUNTEERS
MISSING ‘LINK’
NEW HOSPITAL BUS
PLANS REVEALED
OFFLEASH
DOG TRIAL
WHY WON’T COUNCIL
TAKE THE LEAD?
WONDERS
OF SCIENCE
BOB MORAN & HIS
‘DISCOVERY SHED’
+ GLENN SHORROCK
PITTWATER PADDLE
GREAT BREKKIE IDEAS
MARKET
MONTH!
FAMILY FUN DAYS OUT IN AVALON,
NARRABEEN, MONA VALE & NEWPORT
NOVEMBER 2018
FREE
pittwaterlife
26
37
64
WALKERS
WANTED
To deliver Pittwater Life
once a month.
Permanent and casual runs
are available now in:
Palm Beach, Avalon,
Newport, Mona Vale,
Bayview & Church Point.
EARN TOP MONEY PAID PROMPTLY!
Email:
pitlifewalkers@gmail.com
thislife
COVER: Our writer Rosamund Burton was up at the crack
of dawn to meet the volunteers who work around the clock
assisting Marine Rescue NSW (page 26); we reveal full
details on the story we broke last month about the new NB
Hospital shuttle bus (page 8); local Chambers of Commerce
voice their concerns about the difficulties faced by local
businesses (page 10); meet engineer Bob Moran, who takes
us on a tour of the collection of technological wonders that
comprise his ‘Discovery Shed’ (page 32); and check out the
details for Market Month – it’s going to be a fun few weeks!
COVER IMAGE: Pamela Pauline / pamelapauline.com
also this month
Editorial 3
Pittwater Local News 6-25
Feature: Day In The Life Of... Marine Rescue 26-29
Surfing Life 30-31
Life Stories: Bob Moran 32-33
Art Life 34-36
Avalon Market Day Guide 37-40
Health & Wellbeing; Hair & Beauty 42-49
Money 50-51
Law 52-54
Trades & Services 56-58
Showtime 59
Food 64-66
Gardening 68-70
the goodlife
Restaurants, food, gigs, travel and gardening.
Also find our regular features on beauty, health, surfing,
art, local history, our guide to trades and services, money,
law and our essential maps.
ATTENTION ADVERTISERS!
Bookings & advertising material to set for
our DECEMBER issue MUST be supplied by
THURSDAY 8 NOVEMBER
Finished art & editorial submissions deadline:
THURSDAY 15 NOVEMBER
The DECEMBER issue will be published
on WEDNESDAY 28 NOVEMBER
COPYRIGHT
All contents are subject to copyright and may not be reproduced except with the
written consent of the copyright owner. GST: All advertising rates are subject to GST.
4 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
News
Council has ‘dropped offleash lead’
Dog-owners advocacy group Pittwater Unleashed has accused
Northern Beaches Council of unnecessarily delaying the
introduction of an off-leash dog trial at Palm Beach’s Station Beach
which it says should have been settled by staff months ago.
The community group is furious that Council has wasted time
and money assigning a Council staff member to
oversee the project, only to stonewall the plan at
the 11th hour.
At a meeting on June 26, Council resolved to
trigger a public consultation process within 12
weeks, subject to there being no unresolvable
barriers to do so, presented in any Government
Agency correspondence response to the
proposed trial.
The site for the proposed trial involves the
Pittwater foreshore commencing 80 metres
north of Beach Road and finishing at the Boathouse
Wharf, 630 metres south of National Park
lands.
Pittwater Unleashed, whose charter is to
deliver “a voice for dog owners promoting a ‘Fair
Share’ open space policy across the Northern
Beaches Local Government Area” said Council
had pointed to considerations requested by the
NSW Lands Department in September as the
reason for the additional delay.
Given “environmental sensitivities” NSW
Lands had requested a Review of Environmental
Factors (REF) be undertaken.
But Pittwater Unleashed spokesman Mitch
Geddes said there was no reason for Council
to be commissioning further studies given
a 50-page REF and Biodiversity Assessment had already been
undertaken by the former Pittwater Council, at a reported cost
of $15,000. According to Mr Geddes, the previous REF had been
“misplaced” by Council in 2014, but is now available for all to see.
“The work is already done, and it is high time we let the
community see the findings, by way of the formal consultation
process,” he said.
At its June meeting Council also invited the Executive Committee
of Pittwater Unleashed to help develop the parameters for the
Station Beach trial prior to its projected September public exhibition
commencement.
Preparations for the trial had progressed to the point where a
draft sign had been prepared for the site to outline the conditions
and scope of the trial (pictured).
Following discussion with Pittwater Unleashed, the parameters
of the trial propose a 12-month timeframe, with restrictions
between 4.00pm to 10.30am (Eastern Standard Time) and 5.30pm
to 10.30am (Daylight Savings Time).
Mr Geddes said: “The Department of Lands
already had its go when it demanded the first
REF. The conduct of Lands, and other departmental
officers at that time has recently been
called into question, and is the subject of an
investigation by Environment Minister Gabrielle
Upton and Lands Minister Paul Toole.
“Imposing new delays and cost duplication
at this late stage is not a good look, especially
when one of the laughable suggestions is that
we consider taking the dogs back to Careel
Bay!
“Council needs to get on with the job of
delivering for the community by activating
this stretch of underutilised foreshore, and by
not getting caught up in endless bureaucratic
circles.”
General Manager Environment and Infrastructure
Ben Taylor told Pittwater Life: “We
know off leash dog parks are an important
topic for the community and Council is committed
to providing improved spaces for our
four-legged friends.
“Council has now received feedback about a
trial off-leash dog area on Station Beach from
a range of Government agencies including the
NSW Government’s Department of Industry.
“This feedback identifies the need for environmental research
prior to proceeding with any trial.
“The next steps are that Council will work with the government
to meet their requirements prior to conducting any community
consultation.”
While the commencement date for public exhibition is currently
up in the air, Council CEO Ray Brownlee had set a meeting with
Pittwater Unleashed for late October.
“He’s only been here five minutes, and is already onto this. We
take this as a very good sign – that he won’t cop these costly delay
tactics,” Mr Geddes said.
– Nigel Wall
6 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
News
Shuttle provides ‘easy’
link to new hospital
Not-for-profit community transport operator
Easylink says it’s proud to be helping
patients and visitors travel to the new Northern
Beaches Hospital with a brand new bus offering
regular, scheduled weekday services as well as
tailor-made, door-to-door shuttles.
Their new bus will shift into gear on October
30, the day the hospital opens, with its specially
adapted vehicle running
between Mona Vale Hospital
and NB Hospital.
Its first departure leaves
Mona Vale at 7.45am and its
last return from Northern
Beaches Hospital commences
3pm.
Member for Pittwater
Rob Stokes said the new shuttle bus was more
affordable than taxis and a fantastic option for
individuals who experienced mobility issues.
“One-way fares will start at a concession rate
of $6 for registered customers and up to $10 for
full-fare passengers,” Mr Stokes said.
Susan Watson, General Manager of Easylink,
told Pittwater Life the team was excited to be able
to provide an essential service for people from
the northern end of the peninsula who may find
it difficult to get to the new hospital.
“We believe this shuttle will be very popular
– in fact we have already received our first bookings,”
she said.
“Easylink will provide ‘transport with care’ in
our brand new accessible vehicle… we can pick
passengers up from the bus stop or their home
and ensure they arrive at the hospital and home
again safely.”
Easylink asks all passengers
intending to travel
to book at least two days in
advance (carers travel free).
The service will run
initially as a trial for 12
months.
Bookings can be made
by calling 9919 0700 with
payment made on the day of travel to the driver,
or alternatively passengers can open an account
with Easylink. (More info easylink.com.au)
Meanwhile, locals have slammed new public
bus services announced by Transport for NSW in
October to access the NB Hospital, with no direct
route via the Wakehurst Parkway and Pittwater
residents required to change buses at Dee Why
to get to Frenchs Forest.
Go to transportnsw.info or use the Trip Planner
or look up a bus route online. – Lisa Offord
Timetable
Mona Vale Community
Health Centre
Departs 7.45am, 9.45am,
12pm, 2.30pm
Northern Beaches Hospital
Departs 8.30am, 10.30am,
12.30pm, 3pm
Costs
If you’re registered with My
Aged Care, transport disadvantaged
(temporarily or
permanently), or referred
by local private hospitals,
the shuttle costs are:
$6 each way from Mona
Vale Hospital Community
Health Centre;
$8 each way from home (up
to 5km from MV Hospital);
$10 each way from home
(more than 5km from MV
Hospital).
For NDIS, HCP customers:
$10 each way from Mona
Vale Hospital Community
Health Centre
$15 each way from home
For private customers:
$10 each way from Mona
Vale Community Health
Centre
NB: Carers travel free.
8 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
Pasadena funds
in redistribution
State Government funding
originally earmarked for
the compulsory acquisition of
the Pasadena site at Church
Point will be redirected to
other Northern Beaches
Council projects following
the scrapping of the planned
purchase.
First to benefit is the Mona
Vale Surf Life Saving Club,
with Member for Pittwater Rob
Stokes announcing a further
$2.5 million to assist with the
building upgrade, in addition
to $1.4 million allocated to the
project last year.
Northern Beaches Mayor Michael
Regan said Council was
currently preparing a DA for
the surf club site with a view
to being “shovel-ready” by mid
next year.
More announcements are
pending on where the balance
of the residual funding for
Pasadena will be allocated.
Mr Stokes explained the
funding was part of the NSW
Government’s ‘Stronger Communities
Fund’, provided to
progress key local projects in
partnership with Council.
“This generational upgrade
of Mona Vale will ensure the
surf club continues to provide
outstanding community services
into the future,” he said.
“Improvements to Mona
Vale Surf Club have been
sought for many years but
funding has always been an
issue.”
Surf club upgrades at Newport
and Long Reef are also
being supported as part of the
‘Stronger Communities Fund’.
Mayor Regan added: “It’s
fantastic that Council has
been able to secure this funding
and we thank the state
government for their contribution.
“The community overwhelmingly
support the concept
design for the new club
and will be excited to know it’s
now fully funded.”– Nigel Wall
News
The Local Voice Since 1991
NOVEMBER 2018 9
News
Chambers slam council fee hikes
Local Chambers of Commerce
have slammed Northern
Beaches Council’s fee increases
for outdoor seating space for cafes
and restaurants, saying they
are jeopardising businesses
and slowly stripping villages of
their vibrancy and character.
The Newport Residents Association
has also weighed in,
highlighting the recent closure
of the patisserie in Robertson
Road after its owner blamed the
Council’s fees increase, on top
of escalating rent, as the reason
for shutting his business after
more than 16 years.
After taking the patisserie
closure and the fee hikes in
general up with Council, NRA
President Gavin Butler said the
group was “disturbed” at the
staff response that: “We do not
have authority to change the
charges as they are set…”
Pittwater Ward Councillor
Alex McTaggart intends to run
a notice of motion at Council’s
November meeting, calling for
a complete review of outdoor
seating, including charges.
Further, at the first Avalon
Place Plan meeting, appointed
Community Reference Group
members called for an independent
economic assessment
of business in Avalon village,
noting a decline in activity.
Council’s new fees for 2018-19
included fee hikes of up to 20%
for some regions of Pittwater.
Council’s Acting General
Manager Environment and
Infrastructure Todd Dickinson
said Council used external valuers
to provide pricing advice on
outdoor dining to ensure fees
fairly reflected the market.
“Each location is benchmarked
against other like areas
and valuations take into account
factors including centre
size, traffic and more,” he said.
“Changes to outdoor dining
licence fees in the 2018/2019
Budget were proposed in
line with external valuations
received. Increases are not
uniform across the area.”
Newport Chamber of Commerce
President Noni Long said
Newport and Pittwater’s businesses
needed a “fair go”.
“They need to be heard, they
need commitment and they
definitely need assistance based
on the reality of economic
times,” Ms Long said. “Without
that, how are we supposed to
redevelop our vibrant village
centres?”
She noted that while Council
was actively seeking community
feedback on how to improve
and promote its suburbs, they
hadn’t listened to raw business
feedback.
Also, she questioned how
council’s independent valuers
recommended an almost 15%
fee hike for Newport.
Avalon Palm Beach Business
Chamber President Sam Garner
said Avalon was experiencing
a high turnover of businesses,
mostly due to high costs and a
lack of utilisation.
“The Avalon and Palm Beach
area has rent comparable to the
Sydney CBD – the increase in
Council fees for outdoor space
makes it even harder for these
small businesses to succeed,”
Mr Garner said.
“Currently our chamber is
focussed on improving the
town centre’s atmosphere and
increase ambience, so clearly if
cafes are forced to stop using
outdoor space due to increased
fees, this will not benefit our
cause.”
Mona Vale Chamber of
Commerce President Chris
Kavanagh said his members
were disappointed that the NSW
Government caveat on council
rate increases post-amalgamation
has not been extended to
increases in council fees and
charges.
“A significant number of
businesses depend on council
areas such as footpaths outside
their businesses for advertising,
merchandising and seating,”
he said. “Our recent survey
of businesses in Mona Vale
indicates that the proposed fee
increases may affect businesses
decisions about expansion.”
He added council fee increases
might be more palatable if
accompanied by a commensu-
10 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
ate improvement in services
delivered to the community.
“Health and safety issues in
Mona Vale need to be addressed
and the parking situation in the
Mona Vale shopping precinct is
unacceptable.
“It is the Chamber’s view that
council should not increase fees
at a rate more than the Consumer
Price Index (CPI) unless there
is a direct and tangible increase
in benefit to the community.”
Pittwater’s suburbs are hardest
hit by increases in the Local
Government Area (fees based
on per square metre of usage).
Palm Beach is most affected
locally, with owners forking out
20% more per annum. Other
increases include North Narrabeen
(15%), Avalon (13%), Mona
Vale (10%) and Narrabeen (7%).
Narrabeen Ward Councillor
Rory Amon told Pittwater Life:
“If the Council’s valuation is
wrong, it’s wrong… if there’s
a problem, businesses need to
contact councillors direct and
lobby us. Councillors represent
you, not staff.”
Meanwhile Council has
announced it will continue to
sponsor the privately managed
‘Northern Beaches Local Business
Awards’ for the next three
years.
“Council’s investment in
these awards reflects our
commitment to supporting
economic growth, innovation
and the sustainability of our local
businesses,” Mayor Michael
Regan said. – Nigel Wall
News
The Local Voice Since 1991
NOVEMBER 2018 11
News
Book Review
Lenny’s Book
of Everything
Karen Foxlee,
Allen & Unwin;
PB $19.99, HB $27.99
Get the tissues ready. Lenny
Spink’s brother Davey has
been born with a rare form
of gigantism so you know
what is likely to transpire.
But be prepared to have
your heart filled before it
is broken, as Australian
author Karen Foxlee crafts
a beautiful tale of sibling
championship and pluck, with plenty of
wry comedic moments too.
Early readers who got their hands on advanced reading copies
were addicted to this story, and Foxlee’s incredible writing. The
American ’70s setting is an important backdrop, magnifying the
schoolyard prejudice Davey faces, and the battle the family faces
for treatment.
Lenny and Davey, inspired by their regular subscriptions
to a build-it-at-home encyclopaedia, have grand dreams for
a future we know is foggy. But there is always hope. Lenny’s
Book of Everything joins, and perhaps even surpasses our stock
favourites of Out of My Mind, Wonder and Counting By 7. I know,
a big call. Get a copy and you’ll understand why.
– Libby Armstrong
6THINGS
THIS MONTH
Grab a free plant. All the family
are invited to North Narrabeen to
do some weeding and planting
and help restore Turimetta
Headland on Sun 4 from 8am-
12pm. There will also be free
native plants for residents to take
home. More info 9970 1363 or
9970 1390.
All aboard the Business
Bus. NSW Government Business
Connect Advisors will be parked
outside the Mona Vale Memorial
Hall from 9am-3pm on Mon 5
offering free personalised support
on how to start, grow or innovate
your business. To book call 1300
134 359 or visit industry.nsw.gov.
au/businessconnect for more
info.
Preservation talk. Hear
from Council’s new CEO Ray
Brownlee on his vision for the
local government area at the
Avalon Preservation Association’s
(51st) AGM from 7pm on Mon 5 at
Avalon Bowling Club. Members,
new members and guests
welcome. Join the APA for $10 a
year. More info 9918 8881.
An ‘Exquisite Hour’. The
Peninsula Music Club is hosting
a recital by a highly acclaimed
trio featuring one of Australia’s
great operatic talents, baritone
José Carbó and spectacular
classical guitarists. The concert
starts 8pm on Fri 9 at St Luke’s
Grammar in Bayview. Tickets
$25; students (under 17) $10
or free if accompanied by
an adult. Purchase online at
peninsulamusicclub.com.au.
Silent Night. Avalon Bowlo will
screen The Sentimental Bloke,
the classic Australian silent film,
first screened 100 years ago.
Local film producer Bill Leimbach
will introduce the film and live
musical accompaniment by The
Volatinsky Quartet from 7pm on
Sat 17. Tickets $28.59 through
eventbrite.
Remembrance Day. This year
marks the 100th anniversary
of the Armistice which ended
World War I. Avalon RSL, Palm
Beach RSL, Pittwater RSL,
Dee Why RSL and the War
Veterans, Collaroy Plateau are all
conducting community services
on Sun 11 Nov. Check websites.
12 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
News
Paddle for a
worthy cause
Entries for the annual
Pittwater Paddle have
steadily grown from
the inaugural event in 2014
and organisers are planning
for a big splash for the fifth
edition, with up to 150
paddlers expected to meet
on Sunday November 4 for
races to and around Scotland
Island.
Organised by Northern
Beaches Interchange (NBI),
individual entry is open via
the website pittwaterpaddle.
org.au to those aged 12 and
over competing with kayaks,
SUPs, racing skis, surf skis,
sea kayaks, paddleboards
(traditional prone) and the
Stand-Up Pedal Board in the
Hobie Eclipse. Team entry
is open to SLSC surf boats,
double skis and double
kayaks.
In addition to the 8.4km
Pittwater Paddle from
Winnererremy Bay around
Scotland Island and the
shorter 3.6km Pittwater
Family Paddle to the island
and return option, a new
1km sprint race will give the
fittest the chance to test their
sprint stamina and speed on
flat-water.
NBI is a local organisation
that provides support
services and group
recreational activities for
people living with a disability.
Funds raised via registration
fees and more importantly
individual and team
sponsorship is vital, says
Pittwater Paddle race director
John Brockhoff, whose son
uses NBI’s services.
“My son’s gained enormous
benefit mixing with his
peers and those on a
similar journey through
the opportunities NBI has
created. I’m forever in their
debt for providing those
opportunities.
“For the non-elite paddler
the scenic course can be
challenging, depending on
the wind and tides, and for
the serious competitors it’s
the perfect training run and
family morning next to Flying
Fox Park and the dog-friendly
Winnererremy Bay.
“Whichever end of
the paddling spectrum
participants represent,
it’s an event where waterloving
Northern Beaches
residents and other paddlers
come together to support a
healthy outdoor activity and
the amazing work of NBI,”
Brockhoff added.
Registration for the
Pittwater Paddle is open at
pittwaterpaddle.org.au and
early entry is encouraged, and
will help with planning. Local
MP Rob Stokes, a previous
competitor, was one of the
first to put his name down.
BYO paddle craft and if you
are keen but short of a ride,
drop into The Life Aquatic at
Mona Vale, the event’s major
sponsor. – Lisa Ratcliffe
14 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
SEEN…
While a headcount of 3,000 touted by some was more than a
touch exaggerated there’s no denying the spirit of the community
turnout at the Save Mona Vale Hospital rally last month.
Attendees called for the hospital’s Emergency Department,
Maternity and other acute services to be retained after the
opening of the new Northern Beaches Hospital on October 30.
Credit to Pittwater MP Rob Stokes for turning up and engaging
with a crowd that contained many less-than-flattering signs
waved his way.
HEARD…
It seemed no sooner had the rally dispersed that Mr Stokes pulled
on the pads and went in to bat for the most contentious of the
‘lost’ Mona Vale Hospital services – its Emergency Department.
“My job is to listen to our community and take action – that’s why
I’m calling on health authorities to make further enhancements
to ensure an Emergency Department will continue as part of the
redevelopment and modernisation of Mona Vale Hospital,” Mr
Stokes said. He added he had held talks with senior health officials
and Health Minister Brad Hazzard to investigate ways in which
“planned emergency medicine at Mona Vale Hospital might be
further enhanced.” He emphasised the new Urgent Care Centre
would fulfil a similar role to the existing Emergency Department
at Mona Vale, whilst specialist emergency services will now be at
Frenchs Forest, which was still a lot closer than Royal North Shore
(which ambulances currently convey patients to). Alas, Mr Stokes
appeared to be bowled first ball by the Health Minister, with Mr
Hazzard immediately shutting down the suggestion. Meanwhile,
Save Mona Vale Hospital Chairman Parry Thomas thanked Mr
Stokes for “finally acknowledging” the need for a genuine emergency
department at Mona Vale. “However, it must be backed up
by operating theatres, an intensive care unit and other associated
services such as nuclear medicine – which are all in place.”
ABSURD…
The ‘ghost town’ vibe about stretches of our villages, including
Newport and Avalon, with more shopfronts with ‘for lease’ signs
than we can recall. As we report on page 10, the local Chambers of
Commerce have raised concerns about high rents, increased Council
fees and ‘underutilisation’. The latter is perhaps a kind way of
suggesting local businessess could do with more support. How
about we all try to do our bit when we can?
News
The Local Voice Since 1991
NOVEMBER 2018 17
News
Golf clubhouse arts push
Community intervention
has seen Northern Beaches
Council include the Avalon Golf
Clubhouse as one of two venue
options for the new Creative
Space – North, a dedicated
exhibition and studio space for
artists.
Having narrowed its focus
to the Avalon Annexe, Council
staff were preparing to recommend
the Dunbar Park location
to councillors for public exhibition
before a submission from
local arts advocate Ros Marsh.
Now both the Annexe and
the Clubhouse are being publicly
exhibited, with comments
due to close on November 11.
Ms Marsh told Pittwater Life
the Avalon Beach Arts and
Cultural Precinct Group had
looked at the possibility of
tendering for vacant spaces at
the Golf Club in 2014 as a community
art/cultural venue but
were unable to meet lease costs.
“The tendered areas still remain
largely unused,” she said.
“We always believed this was
a great community asset with
fabulous potential.”
She added the Avalon Preservation
Association supported
the location, providing the concept
was sensitive to existing
users (golfers) and the building.
Local artist and Frenchs Forest
Ward Councillor Penny Philpott
was also in favour.
“We understand the golf
course management lease is up
for renewal in 2019; we would
hope that Council’s intention
is to continue the function of
the golf course,” Ms Marsh said.
“We see the establishment of
the Creative Space as cementing
the longevity of the golf
course and its profitability.”
She said there were many
reasons why the golf club was a
preferable venue.
“Apart from location, the
existing building and club have
all requisite infrastructure
operating – parking, disabled
parking, disabled and other toilets,
and showers, a commercial
kitchen, café, scenic view and
ambiance,” she said.
“It also has 90 square metres
of potential maker spaces and
additional store rooms, a relaxing
lounge area of around 40
square metres, plus 60 square
metres of scenic dining space
that could have uses as venue
or exhibition space.”
She added that green space
adjacent to the north could
allow most of Council’s $1-2m
budget to go to a new twostorey
space.
“We don’t follow the logic
in the concept plans Council
has produced (see Your Say on
Council’s website),” she added.
“We have suggested to Council
that we have a lot of local
expert architects, engineers,
builders, curators, creatives
who may be happy to volunteer
for a working group to get the
best value outcome.
“In fact, we have sought the
advice of a prominent Northern
Beaches architect and his view
is to maintain the integrity of
the existing Clubhouse upper
level (pictured),” Ms Marsh said.
“It would be a simple structure
with some accents of the
18 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
existing heritage features. The
concepts we have proposed
provide significantly more
exhibition space, more maker
spaces that can cater to a wide
range of creative pursuits and
a venue that can be used for
many more purposes and cater
for very large groups.
Commenting on Council’s assertion
that the Clubhouse did
not meet important ‘location’
criteria, Ms Marsh said Creative
Space – North would service the
immediate population (some
27,000 residents) and its exhibitions
should attract the wider
NBC community and tourists.
“The golf course has main
road visibility, it’s close to the
Coastal Walk, bus stops and
lends itself to a perimeter
walkway which could link to
the Coast Walk and Village.
“We think it will provide improved
amenity with potential
to improve the bottom line of
the golf course... it will be a
win-win for the golfers, creatives
and the community.”
Councillor Penny Philpott
said the Golf Clubhouse offered
a more interesting and adaptable
gallery and studio space.
“With careful design there
would be ample area for muchneeded
studio spaces for artists
with ‘heavy’ materials such as
welders, carvers and ceramicists;
while artists who work
in ‘softer’ mediums such as
painters and weavers can also
be catered for,” she said.
* Attend the Council ‘pop-up’
at Avalon Golf Clubhouse on
November 3 from 10am-12pm;
comment on Council website by
November 11. – Nigel Wall
News
The Local Voice Since 1991
NOVEMBER 2018 19
News
Pittwater News
Experience thrills of
catamaran sailing
Palm Beach Sailing Club’s
annual Open Day on Saturday
November 3 will provide visitors
with the experience of an
exciting sail on a catamaran.
You will also be able to try
out the latest kayaks, pedalboards,
SUPs and surfboards
from ‘Pittwater SUP Central’
– The Life Aquatic in Mona
Vale. On the day members
will be on the beach (Sand
Point, Palm Beach) with their
boats rigged and ready to take
you out for a spin on beautiful
Pittwater. Just bring your
swimmers and your sense
of fun! And grab a bite to eat
from the BBQ. Organisers
want everyone to come down
and give it a try. The club has
a policy to encourage and
support sailors at all levels,
from young beginner sailors
to Grand Masters. Their members
range from the inexperienced
to world champions
and Olympic medallists.
Pittwater High Car Boot Sale
U3A takes a deep
dive in the Snowies
Learn of some incredible
deeds involving divers in the
1960s working on the Snowy
Mountains project when U3A
member David Strike presents
his ‘The Men From Snowy’
talk at Newport Community
Centre on Tuesday November
27 from 1.30-3.30pm. David
explains: “Early in 1961, the
Snowy Mountains Authority
had a major problem in the
Lake Eucumbene Dam. A leak
P
ittwater High School is hosting its fourth annual
car boot sale on November 11, to help raise
funds to send their talented music students to tour
America in 2020. The event will provide an enjoyable
outing for both the stallholders and shoppers who
come to find a bargain. Car spots will be generous
in size, and the native bushland setting will add to the ambience – not to mention the great
jazz tunes PHS Junior Stage Band belts out from 10am. (The band will respectfully honour the
100th anniversary of the end of World War I at 11am). Shoppers strolling through the sea of
bargains can also enjoy breakfast or lunch from the BBQ, as well as coffee and cake. If you wish
to declutter or sell your own handcrafted goods, go to trybooking.com/UICI – or drop down
between 7.30am and 1.30pm to soak up the atmosphere and go home with some great bargains.
had developed in a sealing
device at the entrance to the
Lake diversion tunnel and
the only practical method of
checking the trouble was by
diver inspection. The job was
in 260 feet and although the
Royal Australian Navy Clearance
Divers had only worked
regularly to depths around
100 feet, these were the only
divers capable of the attempt.
The work was protracted and
done in freezing conditions.
The perseverance of the divers
in the face of nitrogen narcosis
and decompression stoppages
was nothing short of Spartan.”
All welcome; more info 9970
7161.
Beaches vet offers
assistance in Brazil
Sydney Animal Hospitals
Northern Beaches owner Dr
Ben Brown recently spent time
as a volunteer with US charity
‘World Vets’ in northern Brazil,
providing free veterinary
services to shelter animals
and free training for local
20 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
vets. World Vets Mission is to
improve the health and wellbeing
of animals by providing
veterinary aid and training
in developing countries and
by providing disaster relief
worldwide, their programs
span 46 countries on six continents.
The team of seven vets
completed 506 surgical operations
in four days, making it
the most successful World Vets
expedition in history (see his
story page 25).
Lagoon Friends in
transport discussion
Friends of Narrabeen Lagoon
will host their fourth and final
forum for the year on Monday
November 26, looking at transport
Issues in the Narrabeen
Lagoon Catchment area – from
past to present to implications
of future transport options
for this area. Speakers will be
Richard Mitchell, the president
of the Manly Warringah Pittwater
Historical Society, and
Malcolm Raymond. Starts 7pm
at Coastal Environment Centre.
Free event, but donation
towards expenses appreciated.
Tickets and info email@narrabeenlagoon.org.au
or text 0402
974 105. Also, Conny Harris
will lead a walk of exploration
from Garigal National Park
to Morgan Road on Sunday
November 18. Takes 3.5 hours,
some weeding along the way;
bookings essential 0432 643
295.
Malek delivers a
Golden Age recital
Acclaimed international concert
pianist Christopher Malek
will continue the grand tradition
of piano music when he
performs a recital ‘The Golden
Continued on page 22
News
The Local Voice Since 1991
NOVEMBER 2018 21
Pittwater News
Continued from page 21
Age of Piano’, for Wyvern
Music Forestville on Sunday
11 November at 4pm at OLGC
Catholic Church. Renowned for
the poetic quality of his interpretation
and extraordinary
virtuosity, Malek will perform
piano classics by Mozart, Schubert,
Chopin and Liszt. Tickets
$25 ($20 concession); $15 students
(under-16s free). Address:
9 Currie Rd, Forestville. More
info 9416 5234 or wyvernfmca.
org.au
create a site-specific body of
work. They will also receive a
$3,000 allowance for materials.
At Eramboo, a six-month
residency that provides free
non-residential studio space
awaits filling, with a $2,000 allowance
for materials. A bonus
is the residents will be able to
tap into the professional development
support and networks
that Eramboo provides. The
News
Artists residencies
for creative types
Northern Beaches Council is
inviting talented local artists
to apply for its 2019 Artists
in Residence Program at the
Kimbriki Resource Recovery
Centre and the Eramboo
Artist Environment, both
located in Terrey Hills. Under
Council’s program, two artists
at Kimbriki will have
free access to a nine-month,
non-residential studio space to
22 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
Artists in Residence Programs
provide opportunities for local
artists across practices including,
but not limited to visual
arts, sculptural, jewellery,
installation, print making,
screen, digital, mixed media
or photography to develop new
work in their own dedicated
studio space at either Kimbriki
or Eramboo. At the end
of their residency, artists are
provided opportunities to
present their work in a public
space, prominent location, or
an exhibition space. The 2018
Kimbriki artists in residence,
Angela van Boxtel and Colin
Razor, recently farewelled
their nine-month stays with
a presentation of the artwork
they produced in a special
exhibition at Creative Space
– North Curl Curl; meanwhile
the 2018 Eramboo resident artist,
Michelle Perrett, presented
her body of work – Porcelian
Flowers – at Eramboo in
September. Applications close
5pm, Monday 12 November;
apply Council website.
Gardens on point
The former editor of Our
Gardens, Patricia Prior, will
give a Power Point presentation
of gardens of note, both
here and overseas, at the next
meeting for Palm Beach Probus
on Wednesday morning, 21st
November at Club Palm Beach;
visitors welcome; enquiries
9973 1247.
Continued on page 24
Ready for the fun of the fairs...
Tell the friends and family: Pittwater’s
‘Market Month’ is back! Here’s what’s
coming to a village near you:
Mona Vale Market Day – Find your favorite
stalls at Mona Vale Village Park (above) when
it comes alive with a carnival-like atmosphere
from 10am-4pm on Sunday November 4.
Brought to you by the Mona Vale Chamber
of Commerce, this event has grown from
strength to strength since first staged in 2013
when more than 7000 people flocked to enjoy
a vibrant day out.
With clear skies the long-range forecast
(fingers crossed), this year’s Market Day looks
set to be the best so far – with more variety
among the 110 stalls .
The precinct will feature great food, activities,
pumping music and better amusements – and
in addition to the stalls selling jewellery,
clothing, homewares, crafts and collectors’
items, local businesses will also be getting
involved, offering their own great pre-
Christmas bargains. (Renata from RitzyRocks
will be there, with her unique Venetian
‘Millifiore’ watches!) More Market Day info
monavalechamber.org
Newport Beach Festival – The village will be
filled with colour and excitement on Sunday
November 25, with more than 200 stalls,
international food, kids’ rides, live music and
entertainers as well as Christmas sales at
local shops. And of course, there will be an
appearance from Santa Claus. Supported by
the Newport Beach Chamber of commerce.
More info newportbeachfestival.com.au
Avalon Beach Market Day – Sunday November
18 (see special 4-page guide P37-40). Sponsored
by the Avalon Beach Chamber of Commerce.
Narrabeen Lakes Summerfest – Returns to
Berry Reserve this year, on the weekend of
December 1-2. More than 140 stalls selling
fresh produce and items for Christmas gifts,
plus food. Plenty for the kids, including rides
and activities. Not to mention the sensational
Saturday night fireworks! (See ad P16.)
News
The Local Voice Since 1991
NOVEMBER 2018 23
Pittwater News
Continued from page 23
Self-guided tours of
Mona Vale Cemetery
Northern Beaches Council
has developed a self-guided
history tour of heritage-rich
Mona Vale Cemetery; the tour
can be accessed on Council’s
website using a smart phone
or iPad, taking participants
on a two-hour stroll through
this historic cemetery, first
consecrated as a burial ground
in 1905. The tour is based on
the Journal of Local History
(Volume 8) published by the
Manly Warringah and Pittwater
Historical Society in 2004 to
commemorate the centenary of
the cemetery. While a printed
version will soon be available
on site, you can now view the
tour via council’s website from
the comfort of your home. The
tour profiles around 30 local
identities including author
and playwright Morris West
(‘The Devil’s Advocate’), pioneer
James Booth and the early 20th
Century photographer Euphemia
Baker. Several prominent
people who passed away since
2005 also feature, including
the much-loved teacher, community
activist and Pittwater
councillor, the late Mayor Harvey
Rose. (Council is welcoming
News
24 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
submissions for consideration
by its historical panel about interesting
people interred in the
cemetery.) Info Council website
or email cemeteries@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au
Seniors fitness on
Probus agenda
At the next Pittwater Probus
Club meeting at Mona Vale Golf
Club on Tuesday November
13, hear from physiotherapist
Andrew Daubney, a passionate
golfer who believes in a holistic
approach to metabolic and
musculoskeletal dysfunction.
Andrew has developed his reputation
in spinal rehabilitation,
low back pain and postural
correction. He has a specific
interest in golf biomechanics.
Andrew will be joined by club
member Wes Harder who will
talk about the major medical
complaints of seniors and the
need to get them checked out.
All welcome; starts 10am.
‘Double agent’ author
for Avalon Library
Hear local award-winning author
Carolinda Witt discuss her
amazing book ‘Double Agent
Celery’ at Avalon Community
Library from 6pm on Thursday
November 22. The book is
about Carolinda’s grandfather
Walter Dicketts, who was a
British spy in WWI and WWII.
Carolinda won the non-fiction
prize at the Society of Women
Writers Presentation Ceremony
at the State Library last month.
She says the book will appeal
to not just those interested in
history, but also the many people
who now investigate their
personal histories, searching
out their family trees, or doing
DNA testing. “My grandfather,
Double Agent Celery, lived an
incredible life that most people
would be astounded to hear,”
she told us. Bookings at the
library or call 9918 3013; $5 entry
includes wine and cheese.
Marine compliance
operations continue
Police have promised ongoing
marine compliance operations
heading into summer to ensure
safety on our waterways. The
operations target vessel safety,
safe navigation, speeding,
The Local Voice Since 1991
Ocean
Swims every
Sunday in
January
There will be an
ocean swim every
Sunday in January,
thanks to the annual
Pittwater Ocean Swim
Series involving local surf clubs. The
ocean swims bonanza starts with the Newport Pool to Peak
on Sunday 6 January, with 400m, 800m and 2km courses.
Then it’s Bilgola’ s turn on Sunday 13 January with 800m
and 1.5km swims. They will be followed by Mona Vale on 20
January with a 900m and a 2.2km swim (from Warriewood to
Mona Vale). Finally there is the Big Swim on Sunday January
27, with the traditional 2.5-2.8km swim (Palm Beach to Whale
Beach) and the Big Little Swim (an 800m swim for those
who find the traditional swim too long). Meanwhile Avalon
have moved their swim date to Sunday 14 April, when they
will have 1km and 1.5 km as well as the challenging 2.5km
swim from Newport to Avalon. One of the organisers of the
Pittwater Ocean Swim Series, Rob Berry, says the swims
attract thousands of entrants to the Pittwater region. “The
series is good for local businesses and for the participating
surf clubs, the ocean swims are very important fund raisers,
helping to purchase essential life-saving equipment,” Rob
said.” He added each participating club had included shorter
swims to their traditional long events, to cater for people of
all ages and those who would like to try ocean swimming.
“It’s a fast-growing sport that is great for your health,
regardless of your age... the Newport Pool to Peak swim
is only two months away – so it’s time to start swimming
training!” Entries and info oceanswims.com
alcohol and drug-related crime
and anti-social behaviour. A
recent multi-venue screening
across the state, including on
Pittwater and in Broken Bay,
saw police conduct more than
470 marine random breath
tests and six marine mobile
drug tests. Additionally, more
than 480 vessel checks were
conducted with 13 boating
infringement notices issued.
The operation also included
fisheries checks and boat
ramp, wharf and marina patrols.
Marine Area Commander,
Detective Superintendent Mark
Hutchings, said further operations
would be conducted.
“Police will continue to ensure
everyone is safe this boating
season by targeting unsafe,
dangerous and anti-social
behaviour on the waterways,”
he said. “One of the most important
messages to all water
users is to wear a life jacket; it
will save your life.”
Anyone with information about
marine compliance issues is
urged to contact Crime Stoppers:
1800 333 000; information
in strict confidence.
Gambling harm
minimisation plan
Northern Beaches Council
has adopted the Gambling
and Poker Machine Harm
Management Policy and Plan,
which is designed to limit the
negative impact of electronic
gaming machines (EGMs) on
our community. Acting Chief
Executive Officer David Kerr
said Council’s focus would be
on advocacy and community
education. “We believe by working
with the State Government
and local clubs, we can help
minimise the harm caused by
poker machines,” Mr Kerr said.
“We will look at how we can
complement other activities
and get a strong message to
our community about how
much harm these machines
can do, and also provide guidance
on where people can turn
should they find themselves
heading down a difficult path.”
Council’s plan calls for continued
lobbying of State and
Federal Ministers to do more to
reduce harm. The plan will be
in force to 2023, with a review
scheduled for that year.
Vet
on
call
with
Dr Ben Brown
Recently I had the pleasure
of volunteering in South
America with a world-wide
veterinary charity called
World Vets which provides
international veterinary aid
to poor communities around
the world. Our team of seven
vets and support staff set
up a makeshift veterinary
hospital in northern Brazil,
working with a local animal
welfare group to provide free
veterinary services to the poor
in the local community. Over
the course of our four-day
campaign, the team completed
more than 500 successful
surgeries in less-than-ideal
conditions with minimal
equipment and technology.
The treatment that was
provided included desexing
to assist in the control of the
stray dog population and to
reduce the spread of Rabies
and Transmissible Venereal
Tumours, (TVT), a disease
exotic to Australia, spread
dog to dog by sexual contact.
The team also provided
free chemotherapy for dogs
affected by TVT and supplied
medication so these animals
will soon be cancer-free.
Not all the surgeries that
were performed were routine.
I was fortunate enough to be
able to perform emergency
surgery on a beautiful dog
named Mel (which means
‘honey’ in Portuguese) who
had a ruptured diaphragm
from a previous car accident
whilst she was living on the
streets. Mel has made a
dramatic recovery and was also
desexed during the procedure,
to prevent unwanted litters in
the future which will also help
her be healthier and happier.
If you would like to learn
more about the work Sydney
Animal Hospitals does with
World Vets, drop in to speak
to our staff. There is also a
donation box at our hospital
– or you can donate online at
www.worldvets.org.
* Dr Ben Brown, Sydney Animal
Hospitals.
NOVEMBER 2018 25
News
A Day In
The Life Of...
Marine
Rescue
Special Feature
They’re the guardian angels of our waterways – the volunteers
who work through the day and night to ensure all are safe
and accounted for. But to continue their good work they also
need our help. Words & Photos by Rosamund Burton
Pamela Sayers is standing
in the moonlight when
I pull up at the gates of
the Marine Rescue Terrey Hills
radio base at 5.15am on the
Friday of the October long
weekend. She takes me inside
the building where ex-Qantas
pilot, 70-year-old Sandy
Howard, sits alone in front of a
bank of computer screens. He
has been here since 1.30am.
This volunteer-run radio base
in bushland just off Mona Vale
Road not only operates 24/7 for
Sydney waters, but overnight
monitors radio calls from
boats along much of the NSW
Coastline. It is the first point of
contact for vessels in distress
and sometimes the only line
of communication between a
boat in trouble and the rescue
vessel.
“We’ve been listening to
calls to 18 Marine Rescue NSW
radio bases up and down the
coast overnight, and now we’re
handing them back,” Sandy
explains. At that moment, the
telephone rings.
“Marine Rescue, Sandy
speaking.”
“Forster’s gone,” he says
to Pamela after a brief
conversation. She has sat down
to answer a second call.
“That was Evans Head taking
back their radio,” she says.
At 5.30am, a white ‘Scotty’
trots into the base.
“Hello Bronte,” say Sandy
and Pamela. The dog, an
unofficial visitor, is followed
by her owner, watch officer
Merrilyn Little, as well as radio
operator Helen Manifold, and
new volunteer Neil Chugg.
Although not yet fully trained
in the radio, navigation,
weather and operational
procedures, Neil has already
cooked plenty of sausages at
fundraising barbeques.
Marine Rescue receives
financial support from the
NSW Government and boating
community but, to ensure
the organisation continues to
have the resources it needs
to operate, all its volunteers
need to undertake fundraising
activities.
“I did two hours’
administration work this
morning,” Sandy says. “Then
from 4 o’clock it got busy with
fishermen going out.” He is
interrupted by the loud blare
of a claxon. “That’s the signal a
boat wants to log on.”
Marine Rescue operates a
free ‘Log On’ safety service for
yachts and other boats sailing
up and down the NSW coast,
or cruising or fishing in their
local waters, as well as for
smaller recreation craft such as
kayakers and paddle boarders.
“We’re now asking people to
download the Marine Rescue
app and log on via that,” Sandy
said. “But whether people log
on via the telephone, radio or
app they must remember to log
off when they get off their craft,
otherwise we’ll start searching
for them.”
26 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
Sandy recalls he was on duty
last year when a man rang
saying there was a yacht under
sail 10 miles off the coast with
nobody on board. Three Marine
Rescue vessels, one water police
vessel and two helicopters
started searching for the sailor,
until the water police received
a text saying he’d fallen out of
the boat on the northern side of
Broken Bay and swum ashore.
The volunteers here range
in age from mid-30s to their
80s, and include a wheelchairbound
volunteered for 10 years.
“I come from a family of
water people,” she explains.
“My father was in the navy and
both my grandfathers were
professional fishermen.” Since
joining, Merrilyn has taken up
sailing.
“One of the guys here wanted
crew, and now four men and I
share two boats.” She says the
camaraderie at Marine Rescue
is what makes the experience,
as well as the opportunity to
help people.
strokes, dehydration – and
often bodies are found floating
in the water.”
It’s just after 8am when I
arrive at the Cottage Point base.
Friday is a training day, and
Unit Commander Paul Millar
is there with Don Smallwood,
Mike Evans, John Aitken and
Rob Cumings.
“Because we’re wearing
a uniform a lot of people
think we’re paid, but we’re all
volunteers,” Paul says. “This
base receives NSW government
member. Seventy-three “We get a lot of medical funding of $21,000 a year
how to manoeuvre the dinghy
year-old Merrilyn Little has emergencies – heart attacks, towards running the unit and
Continued on page 28
The Local Voice Since 1991
CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Volunteers
Don Smallwood, Paul Millar, Mike
Evans and John Aitken; Broken Bay
HQ; Sandy Howard nears the end of
his ‘graveyard’ shift at Terrey Hills;
John Aitken at the wheel of ‘Cottage
Point 30’; Pamela Sayers; Merrilyn
Little and Bronty; Sandy Howard.
maintaining the boats. But our
fuel bills alone are between
$32,000 and $35,000 a year
and maintenance costs from
$15,000 to $18,000.”
This base holds raffles and
sausage sizzles at Woolworths
in Mona Vale and Narrabeen, as
well as at Cottage Point to raise
extra funds.
“If we do an ‘assist’ we ask
people to consider making a
donation to cover the fuel burnt
to come and assist them, and
bring them back safely,” Paul
explains, “and mostly people
are happy with that. Some
people are very generous with
donations, and they make up
for the ones who promise and
don’t deliver.”
As we talk, Richard Nyland
and David Hukins, two
prospective members, appear
at the office door. David, 53, an
engineer, has recently started
his own business and is keen
to volunteer as he enjoys being
on the water. Richard, also 53,
has a share in a yacht moored
at Bayview, and explains he is
“looking for meaningful things
to do” having retired. One of
the appeals of volunteering
with Marine Rescue is that it
will make him more confident
and competent on the water,
he says.
The training required for
boat crew includes a Sea
Survival Certificate, First
Aid Certificate, obtaining
a VHF Radio Licence and a
Boat Licence, as well as the
Marine Rescue firefighting
qualification.
It’s a sunny day with flat
water and little breeze and
we climb abroad the 12-metre
vessel ‘Cottage Point 30’ and,
with John Aitken at the helm,
head up towards Lion Island.
“Even if there isn’t a call-out
we patrol the local waters,” Paul
explains. “We make that choice,
although it costs us in fuel.
We do a lot of towing, jumpstarting,
and assist when boats
run onto rocks or out of fuel.”
Someone spots a large object
in the water ahead. A couple
of men think it’s a dead whale
but drawing closer we see it’s
a deflated rubber dinghy. Paul,
Mike and Rob haul it aboard.
“Head into Little Pittwater,”
commands Paul, and John
slowly turns the wheel. A small
powerboat is moored in the
bay, and as the crew discuss
NOVEMBER 2018 27
Special Feature
Continued from page 27
Special Feature
onto the shore, the man on
the powerboat offers to push
it onto the shore with his boat.
Paul throws him the painter,
John puts the vessel into
reverse, and we move away.
“That was an assist,” says
Paul. “Floating in the channel
that dinghy could have been
problematic for other vessels,
particularly at night when it
might not be seen.”
At 2pm, I meet 47-year-old
Narraweena resident Jimmy
Arteaga at Marine Rescue
Broken Bay, in Bayview’s
Rowland Reserve. Jimmy, who
sails, scuba dives and was
a navel cadet as a teenager,
has recently become the unit
commander. Originally from
Ecuador he came with his
family to Australia aged six,
and previously volunteered for
the SES.
The Broken Bay unit has
been in existence for more
than 75 years, Jimmy explains,
operating formerly as the
Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol,
before the amalgamation in
2009 of that organisation
with Australian Volunteer
Coast Guard Association and
the marine fleet of the NSW
Volunteer Rescue Association
into one organisation, Marine
Rescue NSW.
Jimmy tells me that in
addition to their regular patrols
and any assists they make, this
unit provides sea safety for
the ocean swims, such as The
Big Swim from Palm Beach to
Whale Beach, and the Avalon
Beach Surf Swim, and also
the Royal Motor Yacht Club’s
paddleboard competitions.
We walk down to the water’s
edge, and he points out the
Marine Rescue pontoon and
‘Broken Bay 30’, the 28 foot
CLOCKWISE TOP: The ‘Cottage Point 30’ crew haul in a deflated rubber
dinghy spotted drifting in Pittwater – it could have proven hazardous to
boats; Marine Rescue NSW volunteers Don Smallwood; and Jimmy Arteaga.
Steber, on a mooring just
out from the shore. “In three
years the Steber will need to
be replaced, which will cost
over $1 million, and the unit
has to come up with 40% of the
funding,” he says.
The unit has 80 members,
60% of whom are retirees, and
the rest ranging in age from
17 to 60. They hold a weekly
sausage sizzle, and also run
raffles.” Two of its leading
supporters are Johnson Bros
Mitre 10, Mona Vale, who
provide prizes for the raffles,
and the Royal Motor Yacht Club,
which helps with discounted
fuel and vessel maintenance.
It’s 4pm when I get home, and
as I start to relax into the long
weekend the Marine Rescue
volunteers at Terrey Hills are
beginning to take back radio
control of the bases along the
NSW coast for the night.
Whether due to the wind or
the tide, a problem with a sail,
a dragging anchor, an engine
failure, or a person overboard,
28 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
MODEL RESCUES: Office decorations at Marine Rescue Broken Bay.
suddenly a vessel can run into
trouble on the water, and the
work of our Marine Rescue
volunteers is truly invaluable.
Footnote: Over the October
long weekend the Terrey Hills
radio base received 295 radio or
phone communications, and 84
vessel voyages were logged onto
their system. On the Saturday
the Cottage Point Unit received
a call from a Bowrider. The
family of three from Geelong
had bought the boat the day
before, and were exploring the
Hawkesbury, when a southerly
gusting up to 30 knots came
through. A large cruiser came
close to them at Parsley Bay
and swamped their vessel.
They bailed out the boat, and
Marine Rescue Cottage Point
took the mother and 13-yearold
daughter aboard, and the
father followed in the wake of
CP31 back to Akuna Bay. Over
the weekend Cottage Point
Unit also towed two boats,
and assisted a yacht, which
had dragged anchor and gone
aground on the rocks at Bobbin
Head. Broken Bay Unit did four
assists, towing three boats.
* To volunteer for, donate to,
or ‘Log On’ to Marine Rescue
go to marinerescuensw.com.au
or phone 9450 2468.
Special Feature
The Local Voice Since 1991
NOVEMBER 2018 29
Surfing Life
Surfing Life
Crackingly good: Just
who are the Brazil nuts?
It’s no exaggeration to say
that in professional surfing –
men’s at least – Brazil is the
new Australia.
The brilliant and remorseless
Gabriel Medina leads the
world rankings, and is a clear
favourite to repeat his 2014
world title win come the
Pipeline event in Hawaii in
December. He’s just a handful
of points ahead of his even
more brilliant yet not quite so
remorseless fellow countryman
Filipe Toledo. Trailing a tiny bit
in fourth place is Italo Ferreira.
Between them, this trio has won
six of the nine Championship
Tour events of this year so far.
Eleven of the world’s top
34 male pros are Brazilian,
a number likely to increase
in 2019, as a wave of young
qualifiers move up the rankings.
Only one Australian surfer,
Julian Wilson, has any hope of
unseating Gabriel or Filipe this
year, and Julian isn’t part of any
trend. Aside from him, only two
Australians have even made a
final this year.
For a lot of slightly stunned
Aussie surf fans, it’s as if
Gabriel and co have come
out of nowhere. How did the
Brazilians get so good so fast?
The answer is, they didn’t.
Today’s world-beaters are
generations down the track
with Nick Carroll
The development of this South American powerbase is the least-told story in world surfing...
from the first wave of Brazilian
surfers. Yet in contrast to
Australia’s possibly over-told
surfing history, the story of
Brazil’s beginnings is the
sport’s least-known tale.
Where no story is known,
stories spring up. Australian
traveller Peter Troy told of
introducing surfing to Brazil on
a trip to Rio de Janeiro in the
late 1960s. In fact, Brazilians
had been surfing since at least
the late 1930s. Photos exist
from the time of a Customs
official from Santos in southern
Brazil, riding little waves on
a solid redwood board. Who
knows where the board came
from? Maybe Customs had
impounded it.
People surfed here and there
through the years. By 1959, for
instance, a bunch of Rio surfers
were building their own boards
out of plywood. But surfing
in Brazil never experienced a
‘Gidget moment’ – that sudden
explosion of baby-boomer
surf lust that drove the sport
in other nations. One reason is
that Brazil’s modern history is
radically unlike Australia’s. In
the ’60s and ’70s, the nation
was governed by a military
dictatorship, covertly supported
by the US as a bulwark against
Communism. The dictatorship
bred some economic success,
BRILLIANT AND REMORSELESS: Brazil’s Gabriel Medina gets some air.
and stifled dissent.
In 1970, there might have
been a thousand surfers on
all Brazil’s 8000-kilometre
coastline. Most of them lived
either in Rio or in Sao Paulo,
separated by 300km of lush
undeveloped coast. That coast,
and a particularly beautiful
surf zone in its centre named
Ubatuba, became Brazil’s Byron
Bay – the secret paradise those
surfers could make their own.
One of the thousand was a
guy named Paulo Issa. In 1972
Paulo took it upon himself to
organise the first “national
championship” in Ubatuba. It
was “national” in the sense that
anyone who showed up could
go in it. The winner was Rico de
Souza, who was part of the Rio
contingent. The rivalry between
Rio and Sao Paulo surfers –
Cariocas and Paulistas – fired
up the rest of the decade and
beyond.
In Australia and Hawaii, the
first surf contests were called
“meets” and “rallies”. The
Ubatuba contest evolved into
a kind of festival. Pretty soon,
this growing little surf culture
had allied with the Tropicalia
30 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
PL’s NOVEMBER SURF CALENDAR
12-24/11: WSL men’s: Hawaiian Pro, Haleiwa, Hawaii
25/11-6/12: WSL men’s: Vans World Cup, Sunset Beach,
Hawaii
First two events of the fabled Hawaiian Triple Crown. They’re always
intense, always a bit feral, a last couple of chances for surfers
to qualify for the big leagues next year. They also often feature the
most complex and challenging surf of the tour year. Totally worth
watching if you have the time @ worldsurfleague.com
8-13/11: WSL women’s: Port Stephens Toyota Pro, NSW
A fascinating event, bringing the top women competitors and
young qualifiers together at a slightly out-of-sync moment. Could
be a great chance for Newport’s Holly Wawn to put the boot in to
her fellow super-grommets.
NICK’S NOVEMBER SURF FORECAST
Photo: WSL
They say an El Niño event is preparing itself. 70% chance, they
say. Well there’s El Niños and there’s El Niños, and I suspect this
one may not be the killer drought-maker of legend. Heck, October
almost killed the drought on its own. Expect some drying trend
in November, maybe a bit less of the classic soaking easterlies of
the past month, but still with plenty of tropical moisture streaming
down the monsoon line and falling here and there over NSW. Lots
of varying wind shifts, southerlies, northerlies, all that stuff, and
plenty of variety in surf conditions, with a possible surprise cut-off
low or two arising from the collision between these two influences.
Be flexible! Look for the best sandbars and play with ’em. Later in
November we might see a brief return to dry August-style westerly
winds and sudden extraordinary very non-August heat, but we don’t
reckon this will last. Classic Aussie summer coming up.
musical movement, Brazil’s
great artistic response to
the dictatorship. By 1975 the
festival had shifted north, past
Rio to the then-small town of
Saquarema, where it blew up
into what attendees have called
“the Brazilian Woodstock”.
Surfers rode all day, music
played all night, and thousands
of young people who wanted
a piece of this new life came
to town, turning Saquarema
upside down.
Meanwhile, Rico de Souza,
who like a lot of the country’s
surfers at the time came from
a wealthy family, travelled to
Hawaii for the winter surf and
became close to Randy Rarick,
organiser of the first World Pro
Tour. Randy heard Rico’s tales
of Saquarema and suggested
he put together a tour event.
Rico got together with Nelson
Machado, owner of one of Rio’s
first surf shops, and by 1976
Brazil was a pro tour stop.
It was an epic stop, by
the way. Some of the stories
would turn your hair white,
The Local Voice Since 1991
Nick Carroll
and possibly did in a few
travelling surfers’ cases. But it
was up-and-down, in lock-step
with Brazil’s transition to full
democracy. No contests were
held between 1982 and 1985,
which isolated Brazilian surfers
from international influence
and put a big dent in the
country’s surfing development.
But now, huh. Brazilian
surf journalist and historian
Reinaldo Andraus says he
thinks there’s a million people
surfing in Brazil on a day-today
basis, many more than in
Australia.
Despite this, Ubatuba
remains a beautiful backwater.
The coast is too hilly for major
roads, and the freeway between
Rio and Sao Paulo runs inland.
It’s like Byron, if Byron had
stayed that way.
And the Carioca/Paulista
rivalry is still alive. Filipe and
Italo are Rio boys; Gabriel
and Brazil’s other great world
champ, Adriano de Souza (no
relation), are from the other
side. They’ll carry their own
history into Pipeline.
NOVEMBER 2018 31
Surfing Life
A voyage
of Discovery
Life Stories
cure for boredom is curiosity.
There is no cure for curiosity.’
‘The
This Dorothy Parker quote faces
me as I walk into the ‘Discovery Shed’. The
unprepossessing exterior of the industrial
building in Mona Vale doesn’t prepare me
for the technological treasure trove inside.
Engineer, Bob Moran, who turned 80 in
September, has been driven by curiosity
his entire life, and his collection is testimony
to that.
He opens a door into a huge factory
space, pointing out pieces of old aircraft,
including a 1935 RAF biplane joystick, and
a 1930s-telephone exchange he salvaged
from Kimbriki tip three years ago.
Bob was born in Randwick. While at
Coogee Primary School he collected fossils;
he admits he’s been a collector for as long
as he can remember. He studied production
engineering at Sydney Technical College
(now TAFE NSW’s The Sydney Institute
of Technology). When he and his New
Zealander wife Jill married 54 years ago
they moved to Collaroy Plateau, and have
been on the Northern Beaches ever since,
currently living on Narrabeen Lake.
“My wife doesn’t have a mechanical
mind, but she’s very supportive... without
Jill I wouldn’t exist,” he says.
In 1970, Bob co-founded a company,
which built special-purpose machines
and gem cutting equipment. He sold that
business and two years later established
Precision Dynamics, a company that made
packaging equipment. Alongside this
Bob, with his insatiable curiosity for how
mechanisms worked and why, collected
objects, many of which he found discarded
beside the road.
In 1988 when the Powerhouse Museum
moved to Ultimo, it advertised it would be
running a steam tram down Harris Street.
“On that morning Jill and I went down to
the Powerhouse,” Bob recounts. “I walked
up to the front desk with a steam indicator,
and asked if the museum would like it. A
man called Ross Goodman overheard me.
‘I don’t believe this,’ he said. ‘We can’t
run the steam engine, because we haven’t
got a steam indicator to set the timing of
the engine.’ So, I gave it to him.”
Ten years later an employee of Bob’s at
Precision Dynamics met Ross Goodman,
and Ross asked him if he knew anyone
who might quote on building a replica
of a section of Difference Engine No 1, a
giant steam-driven computer designed by
English mathematician, Charles Babbage,
in 1833, to print error-free mathematical
tables. The employee replied: “My boss is
silly enough to quote on anything.”
Whether he was silly or a sage, it took
Bob in a direction he never anticipated. As
Bob was a precision machinist the Powerhouse
Museum curator Matthew Connell
asked him to quote on building a working
replica of this reference portion, the
original of which is in the London Science
Museum, explaining that the Powerhouse
Local engineer Bob Moran
hopes his remarkable
collection of scientific
wonders will endure for
decades to come.
Story by Rosamund Burton
hoped to get funding to build it.
The museum couldn’t raise the funding,
but the steam-driven computer had
captured Bob’s imagination and he was
determined to construct it. The quest
brought him in contact with Allan Bromley,
Associate Professor of Computer at the
University of Sydney and a world authority
on Babbage. Bob was asked to illustrate a
paper Allan Bromley wrote on Difference
Engine No 1, and having completed the
illustration for the paper, Bob proceeded to
draw, with Allan’s guidance, the entire machine.
There were few dimensions on Babbage’s
original drawings, and many of the
drawings were lost, so it wasn’t believed
that this machine could be re-constructed;
but Bob used the known dimensions of the
segment of Difference Engine No 1 which
Babbage had built to set up a grid, and then
scaled the rest of the machine objects to fit
this grid.
We walk around a wall panel and
mounted on an Australian red cedar base
is the reference portion of Difference
Engine No 1, which Bob built. But Bob kept
building, going on to make an outline of
the complete machine to scale – in front of
us are hundreds of interlocking cogs and
wheels, and cylinders, all of which Bob cut
by hand, on a huge wooden stand. “You
won’t see this anywhere else in the world.”
Allan Bromley, who died in 2002, was
also a collector, and several pieces in Bob’s
collection were formerly owned by him,
32 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
including a section of the ‘Totalisator’, invented
in 1913 by Australian computing pioneer, Sir
George Julius, to record bets and calculate the
changing odds and dividends at the racecourse.
This section of the shed is a journey through
the history of the computer. Bob points out
a small part of SILLIAC, the University of
Sydney’s first computer. “Early computers were
monstrous – the size of this building,” he says.
He shows me a 1965 computer, the programs
for which were punched onto tape. “And this pianola,”
he says, sitting on the stool in front of it,
“also works on punch tapes.” A lively tune fills
the cavernous space, as Bob pumps the wooden
pedals and the paper slowly rolls around.
Several computers are on display, including
the PDP-8, thought by many to be Australia’s
oldest working computer. Also, the world’s first
‘luggable’ computer (weighing 17kg) and the
first laptop – an archaic-looking Dulmont Magnum
– designed and built in Australia.
Bob and Jill have two children, but neither
have followed in his footsteps career-wise. Son
Scott and daughter Toni are both health care
professionals. So, in 2010, Bob sold the operating
part of Precision Dynamics and the following
year the Discovery Shed was established. (It
ran for several years as a shed for blokes interested
in fixing old technology and machinery.)
Bob also worked for a year as a volunteer for
Scientists and Mathematicians in Schools (SMiS),
a CSIRO initiative, visiting primary schools.
On the upper floor, alongside an Edison
cylinder phonograph and an early sewing
machine, is Bob’s collection of more than 20
early typewriters, including one dating from
1881, plus a hand-held one used by a Reuters
World War I correspondent on horseback, and a
Wagner-Underwood (circa 1897), which featured
in the film, ‘Moulin Rouge’.
“My wife calls me a hoarder, but I think
there’s a distinction between hoarding and
collecting. I have collected them,” he explains,
“because they all have different mechanisms,
so all these designs are a timeline.”
Now foremost in Bob’s mind is what happens
to his collection next. He wants to pass
it on, and the Discovery Shed has been visited
by prominent people from both Australia and
overseas, who are interested in different pieces.
Having lived on the Northern Beaches for more
than 50 years, he would like the collection to
be in a local museum, so it can be seen in its
entirety for many generations to come. But it
doesn’t have a new home yet.
“It’s an eclectic collection,” Bob admits, “but
it’s important because it has the potential to
arouse curiosity, and when this happens there
is no ending.”
* For more info or to visit the Discovery
Shed call 9997 2222 or email bob.moranj@
gmail.com
Life Stories
SCIENCE IN ACTION: Bob Moran hopes the eclectic
collection of items in his ‘Discovery Shed’ will continue
to arouse curiousity in future generations.
The Local Voice Since 1991
NOVEMBER 2018 33
Art Life
Art Life
Dickerson’s best,
figuratively speaking
Artist Robert Dickerson’s significant contribution to figurative
art in Australia is being celebrated at Manly Art Gallery and
Museum (MAG&M) until December 2.
In collaboration with the Dickerson Gallery, MAG&M’s ‘Against
the Tide’ exhibition brings together paintings, studies and
graphics sourced exclusively from private collections.
A self-taught painter, Robert Dickerson was a founding member
of ‘The Antipodeans’ art movement in the 1950s, which included
fellow famous Australian artists Charles Blackman, Arthur Boyd,
David Boyd, John Brack, John Perceval and Clifton Pugh. He was
still painting into his 90s when he passed away in 2015.
The exhibition will also feature ‘Poets Paint People’ – an hour
of poems read by three poets (Les Wicks, Brooke Emery and Jennifer
Dickerson) surrounded by the paintings of Robert Dickerson
(2-3pm on Sunday 11 November).
* More info council’s website.
Getting crafty
for Christmas
Creative
gift ideas
for Xmas
The creative team from the
Artists & Craftsmen of Pittwater
will showcase their final
sale of the year at the Mona
Vale Memorial Hall for three
days from Friday November 9.
Their hand-made items
make great Christmas gifts, including
ornaments to hang on
trees. They also have gifts of
convenient size and pliability
perfect for posting interstate
or overseas, including embroidered
towels, knitted toys,
and paper tole-framed works.
Summer sun dresses for
girls 1-6 will prove popular, as
well as beautiful gifts for babies,
hand-painted gift cards,
gift bags and gift tags.
And there are lots of ideas
for end-of-year presents for
teachers and friends, like needle-felted
dolls and playmats,
patchwork quilts, cushions,
French-style aprons, screenprinted
linens and porcelain.
Jewellery, silk scarves and
wooden gifts also for sale.
This year every visitor is
encouraged to vote for their
favourite display in the ACOP
People’s Choice Craft Award.
Meanwhile, the ACOP artists
have enjoyed a great sales response
in 2018 and with new
artists recently joining, this
sale will boast great diversity.
(Newcomer Vanessa Georgesen,
who has a background in
pottery, sculpture and screen
printing, brings a modernist
style of Mixed Media.)
Other artists’ works include
acrylics and watercolours,
many featuring northern
beaches locations.
Sale on Fri 9 (3-6pm) and
weekend 10 & 11 (9am-4pm).
More info acop.com.au
The Avalon Craft Cottage
members are holding their
huge three-day Christmas
Show at the Avalon Recreation
Centre from Thursday Nov 22
to Sat 24 open 10am-4pm.
Browse and purchase
beautiful craftwork including
handmade cards; Australian
timber work; jewellery; colorful
patchwork; hand-knitted
baby blankets, bootees and
bonnets; girls’ dresses; soft
toys; pure silk wall hangings
& scarves; screen-printed tea
towels & bags; hand-knitted
scarves, bed socks & beanies
and trendy fabric buckets; plus
painted flower pots and succulent
gardens.
Transform your Christmas
table into a riot of colour with
bunting and decorations!
The Cottagers have been an
institution around the Northern
Beaches since opening in
Avalon in 1969 – next year the
group will be celebrating their
50th birthday.
More info on facebook or at
avaloncraftcottage.com.au.
34 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
Market Days for Mixed Palette
Mixed Palette Art School is
showcasing the works of
their talented artists at both
the Mona Vale and Avalon
Market Days this month.
First up is their exhibition
and sale of diverse works by
local artists at Mona Vale Memorial
Hall on Sunday November
4; there’s something for
all, with the style and subject
matter varying from contemporary
abstraction, landscape,
portraiture and still life.
Mixed Palette will also stage
their 14th annual Art Exhibition
in Avalon Recreation Centre
in conjunction with Avalon
Market Day. Opening night will
be on Friday 16th from 6.30-
9pm (free admission and all
welcome).
The exhibition continues Sat
17th and Sun 18th (both days
9am-4pm).
Debby Waters and Lorrie
Morgan will be running the
exhibition, which will represent
an eclectic mix of paintings,
jewellery, ceramics and wall
hangings. There will also be a
silent auction of two original
Aboriginal paintings, each with
letters of authenticity.
Mixed Palette runs mixed
media art classes for all ages
– as well as art parties and
workshops.
* Interested in being part
of the exhibition? Contact
Debby on 0409 278 591 or
Lorrie on 0412 141 852.
Turn love of renovation
into a great new career
Do you find renovating
enormously
satisfying? Are
friends always complimenting
you on
your interior style?
Interior design is an
exciting career path
for creatives – and
the industry is growing
every year. Government
stats show
a steady increase
in the number of
professional Interior
Designers over the past five years, with that trend expected
to continue into 2022 and beyond.
“We can see from our internship program and careers
placement service that there is a strong demand for welltrained
interior design graduates,” said Amanda Grace,
Director of Sydney Design School (pictured). “Our students
work on real projects with real clients and earn industryrecognised,
accredited qualifications. Our alumni have a 98%
employment rate – the demand isn’t slowing!”
SDS is putting out a challenge to interiors enthusiasts
to roll up their sleeves and get creative. As part of their
free Open Day this month you’re invited to build a sample
board – which could win you a place in their sellout two-day
Interior Decoration Workshop.
“Open Day is an opportunity to chat with our Careers
Coach, meet practising Interior Designers and Architects
(who teach at the School) and be inspired by an impressive
exhibition of student work,” said Amanda. “You’ll be guided
through our variety of career and short courses, as well as
flexible study options for learning part time, in the evening
or online.”
Join SDS at their St Leonards campus on Saturday 3 Nov
starting at 10am. Register at sydneydesignschool.com.au
Art Life
The Local Voice Since 1991
NOVEMBER 2018 35
Art Life
Art Life
Portraits to keep
our memories alive
Fresh from some
successful
showings and a
brief departure
from his usual
artistic focus,
Avalon artist Phil
Meatchem says
he is happy to be
‘back on the tools’
in the lead up to
the festive season.
Phil has had
a busy year so
far, continuing
his success
in national
competitions,
and holding his own unique
exhibition – Karokature –
with much local attention.
Moving away from the stylised
creations seen in his rock
and roll caricatures, Phil says
is keen to get back to the
more traditional portraits and
landscape artistry of where
his heart belongs – and he
wants locals to come along
for the ride.
“Traditional painting is
becoming less and less
common in society,” said Phil.
“People forget how special it is
to have a one-of-a-kind artwork
sitting in their house.
“I want to create timeless
heirlooms for people and help
them keep their memories alive
and current.”
Phil says he loves engaging
with clients and their families
to create these pieces and is
just as happy working from
photographs supplied or
photos he can take himself – a
perfect way to gift someone a
beautiful surprise to mark an
iconic occasion. (Pictured is one
of his recent commissions.)
“Working from photos gives
me flexibility, and means I can
devote myself to ensuring I’ve
captured the subject in their
most-loved form.”
Phil has started taking
orders for Christmas, and with
a wide array of sizing options,
he is more than happy to work
with you to get your ideal gift
sorted.
He says he doesn’t “just do
people”, knowing that family
pets and favourite places have
a special hold on people’s
hearts too.
You can catch Phil at
Avalon Market Day on Sunday
November 18 as he exhibits
a collection of his works – be
quick though, as all his pieces
in last year’s show sold out.
– Nigel Wall
36 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
SUNDAY NOVEMBER 18
Avalon ushers
new era of fun
Avalon Beach Market Day returns this year on Sunday 18
November from 9am to 4pm when the main streets of
Avalon Beach village and Dunbar Park will be alive with
amazing music, fabulous food, fantastic fashion and fun for all
the family!
There will be an array of market stalls selling fashion, jewellery
and crafts as well as gourmet food stalls. And our local
clubs and charities will be working hard to raise funds for their
worthy causes.
Since taking over managing the markets, Vanessa Tiernan
(Avalon local event manager who owns Roobarb and Company)
has been committed to ensuring that the stallholders and products
come from the local area. This year, more than 50 per cent
of the stalls come from the local area and the northern beaches.
The Annual Dog Show
A constant of market day, the annual Avalon Market Day Dog
Show will be held on the main
stage commencing 9.30am!
Proudly sponsored by the local
team from Sydney Animal Hospital
Northern Beaches.
This year we welcome
respected journalist and ABC
News presenter, Juanita Phillips,
as our MC. Joining her on
the panel of judges are The
Hon Greg Combet AM, The
Hon Rob Stokes MP, Northern
Beaches Mayor Michael Regan,
and Australian actress Toni
Pearen.
Bring your pooch down
on the day to partake in fun
categories of Best Trick, Fancy Dress – and Waggiest Tail!
avalon
market day
Fun for the Kids
The carnival rides are back again – this
year they will be located on Old Barrenjoey
Road, outside Avalon Public School. There
will also be an assortment of Show Bags
filled with lots of goodies.
Live music
John Stone has arranged a spectacular line-up of local school
bands, dance troupes, musicians and fantastic bands (for the
full entertainment schedule see page 40). The main streets of
Avalon Beach village will be filled with music.
Stop by the Dunbar Park stage to support the local school
bands from Avalon Public School, Maria Regina Catholic, Bilgola
Public School and Barrenjoey High School. Mona Vale Music has
also arranged a fantastic line-up of young local talent on the
Avalon Parade stage.
Food, food
& more food
Dunbar Park will be the place
to head to grab a bite from of
the many fabulous food stalls.
We are pleased to welcome
local food stalls – Tothy Bros
Deli (Palm Beach), Highbrations
Organics (Avalon), Sotto Sopra
(Newport), Bliss Bowls (Mona
Vale) and Azteca Taqueria
(Frenchs Forest).
ALL PHOTOS: Hunter Manuel
The Local Voice Since 1991
#ThisIsAvalon
NOVEMBER 2018 37
SUNDAY NOVEMBER 18
38 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
The Local Voice Since 1991
NOVEMBER 2018 39
SUNDAY NOVEMBER 18
avalon
market day
Stage 1 – X Roads
9am: Night Owls
9.30am:
10.15am:
11am:
11.10am:
12pm:
12.10pm:
1pm:
2pm:
3pm:
Dog Show
Hot Robert
Ariana Dance
Gavin Libotte Quartet
The Big Sing
Nativo Soul
Kat Lush Band
Dominic Breen Band
Sassafraz
Stage 2 – Dunbar Park
9am: Avalon Public School
10am:
11am:
11.30am:
12.30pm:
1pm:
1.30pm:
2.15pm:
3pm:
Bilgola Public School
Maria Regina Catholic School
Barrenjoey High School
The Rions
Cleopatra & Flynn
Scoot the Loot
Ella Couston & Meg Mulcahy
Village Big Band
Stage 3 – Bistro Boulevard
9am: Eden and Darcy
9.15am:
9.30am:
9.45am:
10am:
10.20am:
10.40am:
11am:
11.15am:
11.30am:
11.45am:
12pm:
12.30pm:
1pm:
1.30pm:
2pm:
2.30pm:
3pm:
3.30pm:
Josie Duncan
Emma & Momo
Josh Aristead & Euan Bates
Ella Ward-Flusk
Grace McAdam & Johnny Austen
Riley Holt
Kasey Cramer
Fifi Archibald
Milana Gerrard
Arielle Vallis
Lillian Hellmann
Maddie Walker
Tiana Mannell
Abbey Gatwood
Natalie & Julia
Lachie Bates Trio
Brown Betty
Little Jay Biggs
(Lilla, Ben, Jack and Alley)
ALL PHOTOS: Hunter Manuel
40 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
#ThisIsAvalon
Health & Wellbeing
How small changes can
make a big impact on
your bowel cancer risk
Health & Wellbeing
While smoking, being
overweight and
drinking too much
are known risk factors for
bowel cancer, new Australian
research has revealed how the
combination of all three can
be devastating… especially
in men.
A study involving 370,000
Australians has found current
rates of smoking, overweight
and obesity and excessive
alcohol consumption could
lead to 45,000 cases of bowel
cancer over the next 10 years.
“Combined, these factors
will be responsible for one in
four future bowel cancers –
even more so for men (37 per
cent of bowel cancers) than
women (13 per cent),” said
study leader, Associate Professor
Claire Vajdic, Head of the
Cancer Epidemiology Research
Unit at UNSW’s Centre for Big
Data Research in Health.
Meanwhile local specialist
Dr Stuart Pincott (pictured)
said early detection, being
aware of signs and symptoms,
which may indicate a
problem, and talking to your
GP were vital in improving
survival from bowel cancer.
The colorectal surgeon,
who operates at Dee Why
Endoscopy Unit which offers
open access Endoscopy/Colonoscopy,
said some of the
early signs of bowel cancer
included bleeding from
the bowel, loss of weight,
abdominal pain, change in
bowel habit or unexplained
tiredness.
“It is important if you notice
these symptoms that you
should feel comfortable to
report them to your family
doctor,” Dr Pincott said.
“There are many different
causes for these symptoms,
most of which are not serious…
your doctor will make
a thorough assessment and
advise of further investigations
or treatments.”
Associate Professor Vajdic
said that if people adopted a
healthy lifestyle and changed
their behaviours accordingly,
a large proportion of the anticipated
future burden identified
in the team’s research
could be avoided.
The research findings were
the first to identify that more
bowel cancers were caused
by overweight or obesity and
excessive alcohol consumption
in men than in women,
A/Professor Vajdic said.
“Hormones and differences
in body fat distribution, particularly
excessive fat around
the stomach, likely contribute
to the higher body fatnessrelated
risk in men. We also
know that men drink more
alcohol than women, which
increases their bowel cancer
risk,” she said.
The researchers also found
an interesting interplay between
smoking and alcohol:
the bowel cancer burden
attributable to smoking was
significantly exacerbated by
excessive alcohol consumption
and vice-versa.
“This means that the future
bowel cancer burden would
be markedly lower if current
and former smokers did not
drink excessive alcohol,” A/
Professor Vajdic said.
The study findings make
a case to support everybody
– but men in particular
– to achieve and maintain a
healthy weight to prevent
bowel cancer.
And the results also sug-
42 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
gest more resources should
go into encouraging people to
use the free bowel cancer test
sent in the mail to all Australians
over 50, through the
National Bowel Cancer Screening
Program.
The simple test can detect
bowel cancer in its earliest
stages, often before there are
any symptoms.
Research collaborator, Julie
Marker, has survived bowel
cancer three times over the
past 17 years
“Any action you can take to
prevent or detect bowel cancer
early might save you from
the battle I’ve had,” she said.
“I’d encourage men and
women – but especially men
– to adopt a healthy lifestyle
and participate in bowel
cancer screening to reduce
their risk.”
“GPs and other health
professionals should target
prevention and screening
advice to their patients, using
insights from this research.”
Bowel cancer is the second
most common cause of cancer
deaths in Australia and
around 80 Australians die
from the disease every week.
Dr Pincott added that while
bowel cancer was a very common
disease, if caught early,
up to 90 per cent of bowel
cancers could be successfully
treated.
“The best way to detect
bowel cancer is by colonoscopy
– a common day surgery
procedure that examines
the entire lining of the large
bowel and can detect cancers
before symptoms have even
Get growing for
Decembeard
Registrations are now open
for Decembeard an event
hosted by Bowel Cancer
Australia which encourages
men to grow a beard or
some chin stubble in the final
month of the year to raise
awareness and funds for
bowel cancer. More info at
bowelcanceraustralia.org.
developed,” he said.
Performed by specialist
surgeons and gastroenterologists
while the patient is
asleep under a light anaesthetic,
the procedure takes
about 20 minutes.
“Colonoscopy can detect
many different disease processes
such as polyps, cancer,
diverticular disease, haemorrhoids
and inflammatory
bowel disease and during the
procedure the doctor can take
biopsies of any abnormalities,
remove polyps or treat haemorrhoids,”
Dr Pincott said.
“Colonoscopy is also recommended
for screening for
bowel cancer in people who
have a positive test from the
National Bowel Cancer Screening
Program.
“It is also commonly advised
for people at increased
risk for bowel cancer due to
a family history of polyps,
bowel cancers or when families
are affected by certain
rare genetic syndromes.”
– Lisa Offord
Health & Wellbeing
The Local Voice Since 1991
NOVEMBER 2018 43
Health & Wellbeing
Health & Wellbeing
Make use of your
optical benefits
Many of us spend a considerable
amount on private
health insurance and the rule
is, if you don’t use the entitlements,
you lose them. So
accessing hard-earned dollars
in the form of optical benefits
is a worthwhile activity, and
the right advice with tailored
eyewear and eyecare recommendations
will maximise
entitlements.
Just a few of the ways you
can use your optical benefits
this year:
Contact Lenses – suitable to
wear to the beach with regular
sunglasses to catch up on summer
reading. With the latest
technologies in contact lenses,
optometrists can prescribe a
contact lens solution for almost
any prescription.
Ever feel you take your sunnies
off to see clearer in the
distance or for reading your
phone? Prescription sunglasses
enable clear vision with
crucial UV and glare protection
at the same time.
Do you find yourself in front
of digital screens most of the
day? A simple solution with
digital eyewear will help alleviate
the strain on your eyes and
enable clearer more comfortable
vision.
Your glasses are the first
thing people look at when
they engage with you; they set
the tone and style of how you
present to the world… so what
is your style and are you ready
for a new look from our handpicked
range of frames?
Or are you looking forward
with Rowena Beckenham
to losing yourself in a book, or
taking up model boat building
or intricate origami? A specific
pair of reading glasses can
provide clear vision and an
extra level of comfort for your
eyes.
Now, did you know that vision
is responsible for around
90% of the information we use
for driving. Optometrists will
assess your vision to ensure
maximum road safety with appropriate
driving eyewear.
Elite sportsperson or just
keen to give it a go? Sport-specific
eyewear can enhance both
your comfort and performance
on the field, as well as ensuring
safety in the case of an
accident.
And finally, the stress of
losing or breaking your glasses
can be irritating if you don’t
have a back-up pair. Now’s the
time to claim a spare pair with
your optical extras.
Use these ideas to make
the most of your optical
extras before they expire on
December 31!
Comment supplied by Rowena Beckenham, of
Beckenham Optometrist in Avalon (9918 0616). Rowena
has been involved in all facets of independent private
practice optometry in Avalon for 16 years, in addition
to working as a consultant to the optometric and
pharmaceutical industry, and regularly volunteering in
Aboriginal eyecare programs in regional NSW.
44 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
Ageing well at
home – that
sounds like a plan!
Media reports highlighting
accusations of abuse need to think now about how
“So given that likelihood we
and neglect in nursing homes and where we want to live
and the announcement of a when that time comes… don’t
Royal Commission into aged wait for a crisis to occur.”
care investigating the scandalplagued
sector have encour-
knowledge sooner rather than
Seeking out aged care
aged many families to start a later was vital in order to protect
not just those in the later
conversation about ageing and
the need to plan for the future. stages of their lives but also
People of all ages are thinking
more seriously about age-
so often left with the responsi-
to protect the families who are
ing, says professional agedcare
advocate, Clareville’s when they occur said Louise.
bilities of managing problems
Louise Mace.
First port of call should be
“We and our parents and the Australian Government’s
grandparents are far more likely
than previous generations to can provide you with infor-
My Aged Care website which
live well into old age and with mation about the types of
old age, health decline is virtually
inevitable,” said Louise. Louise said if you or
services available.
someone
you know was showing
signs of struggling to live independently,
it was wise to book
an Aged Care Assessment
Team (ACAT) to start the process
of applying for subsidised
help at home.
But be warned you’ll need to
join a queue – Department of
Health figures show as of June
there were more than 121,000
senior Australians waiting to
access home care support.
“Once the ACAT assessment
is done, they will determine
needs and match it to a score
from level 1 through to 4, with
4 being the highest care need
package.
“The ACAT is also only one
part of the process… think
of it as your passport into
government-funded care,”
Louise said.
The next step was the
means test through Centrelink,
which determines eligibility.
Louise, who is the founder
and managing director of New
Way To Stay (newwaytostay.
com.au), a boutique consultancy
which helps ageing Australians
stay at home, advises
not to rule out private care
arrangements.
“Sometimes the results of
a means test with Centrelink
can mean that you might be
just as well off with privately
paying options, outside of the
government system,” she said.
– Lisa Offord
Health & Wellbeing
The Local Voice Since 1991
NOVEMBER 2018 45
Health & Wellbeing
Health & Wellbeing
Journey toward
‘Zero Suicides’
People in distress and
communities impacted by
suicide or associated mental
health challenges will have
more support than ever before.
The government recently
announced $90 million to
deliver new suicide prevention
initiatives and better coordination
between the various support
providers and agencies to
ensure no-one slips through
the cracks.
NSW Health Minister Brad
Hazzard said communities
at high risk of suicide would
benefit from eight new or
expanded initiatives from next
year including:
n New support services for
people bereaved by suicide
– to prevent ‘clusters’ of
further suicides, especially
among young people;
n Resilience building within
local communities – engage
communities to participate
in suicide prevention;
n Improved after care services
– ensuring all people who
have been admitted to
hospital following a suicide
attempt have access to follow
up care and support;
n Alternatives to presenting to
the Emergency Department
if in distress;
n Programs to eliminate
suicide attempts by people
in care;
n Expanded community mental
health outreach teams;
n Additional counsellors for
people in regional and rural
areas; and
n Improved data collection
and distribution.
What kind of support
do local parents want?
Most parents will manage the
grief associated with extraordinary
loss through their usual
support networks.
Others may need a little
extra assistance.
With this in mind, a small
committee of dedicated local
services including The Avalon
Youth Hub, The Burdekin Association,
Mission Australia,
CatholiCare, Lifeline, Headspace,
and Family Drug Support
has been formed.
The committee wants to
plan a range of support options
for those parents who
might benefit from some additional
help explained Emerick
Kovacs from the Avalon Youth
Hub.
And the committee needs
your help encouraging parents
to complete a brief electronic
survey.
“In the interest of ensuring
that support options are
a good fit with what parents
believe they would find most
helpful, the committee is
keen to canvass the ideas of
parents,” Mr Kovacs said.
“Local services are very confident
that with the views and
input from parents, a range of
relevant support options will
be made available.”
The survey can be found on
The Avalon Youth Hub website
at avalonyouthhub.org.au
(click on the ‘Community
Outreach’ and then ‘Family
Support’ tabs and follow the
‘survey monkey’ link) or go to
the Hub’s Facebook page.
* If you or someone you
know needs crisis support
call Lifeline 13 11 14,
MensLine Australia 1300 78
99 78, or Kids Helpline 1800
55 1800. For support and
information services phone
the NSW Mental Health Line
on 1800 011 511. – LO
46 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
48 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
Hair & Beauty
Care for your neck and
present your best look
The skin on the neck is
in conjunction with the
a telltale to how old we
MicroNeedling procedure.
really are. I always suggest
Fractional Laser – stimulates
to clients that when they treat
the skin on their face, they take
the same products and regime
down to their neck and chest or
decollete. This way the exposed
areas look more uniform in
colour and texture.
The skin on the neck suffers
the same environmental
onslaughts as the face, only it
is far thinner and more fragile.
The neck skin has fewer oil
and moisture glands and this
can be one of the contributing
factors to dry, crepey and heavy
horizontal lines.
The neck can be rejuvenated
both topically with products
and with clinical treatments. Sun
damage is a contributing factor
to the breakdown of collagen
and elastin of the neck. Broad
spectrum sunscreen should be
applied every 3-4 hours.
Clinical treatments may be
combined or used as standalone
methods. Remember, it
has taken a long time to get to
an older appearance and rarely
will one treatment provide
desired results. Here are some
options:
Fat Freezing – with a mini
handpiece can help to reduce
the double chin. The shape of
the jaw line and the amount
of fat present will determine if
one or two applicators will be
required. This procedure may
be repeated after 12 weeks.
IPL Photorejuvenation –
uses selective light energy to
assist with the reduction of
both pigmentation and red
capillaries. One of the most
common conditions IPL can
treat is Poikiloderma of Civatte,
which appears on each side
of the neck with red-brown
pigmentation along with a
vascular component.
HIFU Ultrasound – these
treatments stimulate the soft
tissue of the neck down to the
lower dermal layers and provide
both a smoother and firmer
appearance.
MicroNeedling – penetrates
the skin barrier to depths
that can be customised,
depending on the severity of
skin laxity and crepiness. A
cocktail of hyaluronic serum,
growth factors and peptides
are used to treat sun damage,
scars, fine lines and crepiness
cell turnover and is capable
of minimising and eliminating
skin concerns including sun
damage, poor skin tone, fine
lines and wrinkles. By creating
micro treatment zones in the
dermal layer of the skin, the
body’s natural healing process
is activated to create healthy,
new skin.
Plasma energy – can address
the irregularities of colour,
texture and tone of the neck.
A small amount of downtime
is normal; more than one
treatment is often suggested.
Other professional treatments
available to treat the signs of
ageing of the neck are chemical
peels using Vitamin A, Jessner’s
Peel or TCA. Blended chemical
with Sue Carroll
peels are gentle enough for
this fragile area and may help
to reduce skin discolouration,
strengthen skin and increase
cellular turnover.
Homecare product
consideration should address
reducing redness and
pigmentation, along with deep
hydration for the neck which
has fewer sebaceous glands and
reduced moisture retention.
Sue Carroll of Skin
Inspiration has been a qualified
Aesthetician for 33 years.
Sue has owned and
operated successful beauty
clinics and day spas on
the Northern Beaches.
info@skininspiration.com.au
www.skininspiration.com.au
Health Hair & Wellbeing Beauty
The Local Voice Since 1991
NOVEMBER 2018 49
Business Life: Money
Business Life
Good Market reason watch: for taking going
‘nuts’ stock this of ripples festive to season routs
This When month writing we about look at
recent financial falls innovation on local one
and of the global perspectives markets… I
can Ever share since with I’ve you had is anything from the
inside to do with of a fintech investment company
which markets in my – and case that’s has been from
rolling 1987 – out falling the fast-growing
markets
Acorns never seem app. Since to reduce, launching calm,
in diminish, Australia scale-down in early 2016 or the even
app condense. now resides Falling on markets the smart
phones only ever of seem around to 350,000 collapse,
Australians, crash, plummet, that’s nose roughly dive 1.5%
of and the plunge. population. Well, that’s what
they If you’re do according the dark to about the
what media I’m anyway. talking about, Acorns
is a October micro investment has seen a platform return
or of what’s volatility sometimes to local and called a
‘round-up’ global share app, markets the first but one
of it’s its not kind the in first Australia. time this Our
firm year. along Putting with things our partners into
brought context it we out have from seen the three US
in standout 2015 where corrections it had been during
established 2018; the first for a one few started years. in
January The app and works saw in falls a couple of about
of 5%, ways: followed by taking soon a after data with a
feed dip in from March your of spending 5%, and most
accounts recently in and the rounding first weeks up the of
purchases October with you a make fall of to about the
nearest 9%. dollar and investing
these Peak accumulated to trough this balances calendar
into year a our mix share of exchange market traded has
funds traded listed in the on range the ASX, between or,
by 5,724 you in debiting April and amount 6,373 in or
regular August. payment (It is interesting from your to
bank note that account the to ASX your 200 Acorns has
account. never been Most able users to regain enjoy the
its peak value of 6,800 first
achieved in November 2007.)
Looking at likely causes
for this year’s dips, the last
two are fully correlated to
round up feature of Acorns as
it allows them to save while
they spend. As a parent of
teenagers I think I’ve come
to the conclusion that apps
such as Acorns using a blend
of psychology and technology
may be the only effective way
to get modern kids to save
because they sure do know
how to spend.
Acorns works because the
principles underlying its design
interest rate decisions of
the US Federal Reserve. The
first one in January was in
response to a positive US jobs
number and more importantly
signs that wages growth was
gaining momentum, a pointer
are to inflation firmly rooted and ultimately, in behavioural
finance: you guessed investing it, interest small rate
amounts rises. on a regular basis that
won’t Let’s be pause missed to combined remember with
investing that interest over rates an extended in the US
period have only of time recently to average started
into a process the markets of normalisation
smoothing
out after peaks almost and 10 troughs. years of Of
course accommodative it doesn’t hurt policy. that The it
does reason all the of these US central things bank within
the has framework seen fit to of normalise a highly
rates is that the US economy
is doing exceptionally well
with Gross Domestic Product
increasing at annual rate of
4.1% for the second quarter.
attractive and functional user
interface – fancy words for the
app looks and feels very cool.
While these principles have
proven to be sound over time
Acorns goes on to provide an
indirect benefit to its users
in the form of education and
improved financial literacy.
Get two or more people in the
room who have an account and
you’ll find out what I mean –
when did you start? What are
So, with this latest wave
of volatility came also a
predictable media reaction
and headlines using words
like ‘market rout’. The wealth
editor of one normally
sensible daily national
you newspaper saving for? even What suggested returns
have that investors you had? It’s looking inherently for safe
competitive havens should but consider when it’s cash,
combined gold and hedge with the funds. tools and
information The decision that to the head app for
provides the exits it’s is an also important extremely
informative one investors – as a regular but carries user
you its own can’t costs help if but you become get it
more wrong. informed While there about is the little
behaviour doubt that of markets were whether
you toppy, are especially looking to in or tech not – the
shares, company earnings
have been growing and
economic outlook positive
but as we all know things can
change and change quickly.
with Brian Hrnjak
balance Reading of your the advice Acorns to account move
rises into cash, and falls gold in or line hedge with the
movements funds is frankly in markets bizarre during when
the you course consider of the that trading cash might day.
only One achieve of the challenges between 2% and
any 3%, finance albeit with app certainty. would have Gold
encouraging yields nothing young on top people of to
save introducing and invest currency is to remain and
relevant commodity in their risk eyes. into Over a
the portfolio. past year Hedge a number funds, of well,
enhancements what are hedge have funds? taken Just place
following recently in user Australia feedback, we the have
headline witnessed ones the being: spectacular
Found demise Money of ‘alternative partners asset’ – users
can manager shop online Blue Sky with Alternative brands
such Investments. as Bonds, Earlier Dan Murphy’s, this year
BCF, Warren Uber Buffett etc. and closed these out his
partners decade-long usually million deposit dollar bonus bet
amounts that an index or extra fund round (S & ups P 500
into Index) the would users account; beat a pool of
My hedge Finance funds feature – it did, – uses 125.8%
artificial to 36%. (The intelligence million to went track to
and charity categorise by the way.) spending and
calculate Buffett free was cash quoted flow; on CNN
Super after collecting fund linkages on the – allows bet:
users “Making to make money deposits on the to stock a
range market of does industry not and require public
offer great superannuation intelligence, a degree funds;
Emerald in economics Portfolio a – familiarity a socially
responsible with Wall Street portfolio jargon. option What
introduced investors then following need member instead
feedback; is an ability to both disregard
Little mob fears Acorns – enthusiasms
sub accounts
designed and to focus to allow on a investment few simple
on fundamentals.”
behalf of children or other
dependants If you are under nervous the about age of 18.
the current state of markets
don’t let me get in your way
of going to cash or doing
whatever allows you to sleep
soundly at night; financial
56 50 NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2017 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
planning, no matter what
anybody says, is equal parts
investment analysis and
psychology. Time frames and
investment horizons are what
count when you are investing
in assets that rise and fall
and if you don’t have a five
to seven-year investment
horizon in front of you, you
have no place investing in
shares.
But if you do still have a
stomach for shares, property
and things that rise and fall
well there are other things
that can buffer you from
volatility.
First things first, review
your existing holdings; if
you were lucky enough to tip
into CSL or Ramsay Health
Care 10 years ago you could
have tipped out during that
time having made ten times
your money – did you? Taking
profits is part of active
management and ensures
that no single holding
dominates. These high price/
earnings shares tend to get
hit hardest when markets turn
negative so pruning in the
good times is good practice.
Make sure your holdings
are of the highest quality –
what we know following 2008
is that while all shares may
fall in unison during a crisis
it’s the quality shares (biggest
market cap and/or best in
category) that fall the least
and rebound the fastest.
Be diversified – adequate
diversification is described
as the only ‘free lunch’ in
portfolio management. Many
Australian investors are
biased towards bank shares –
these have taken a belting of
about 20% since the start of
the year mainly on the back
of the Royal Commission plus
they rise and fall with the
market. Investors that have
held international shares
have experienced volatility
but have been rewarded with
market growth and gains
from currency appreciation in
the US dollar.
Check your income
generation – yield in a
portfolio, particularly one
used to support a pension,
provides a buffer when unit
prices are down. During the
GFC for example the dividend
on Westpac shares dipped by
only 20% for one year before
rebounding back to pre-GFC
levels. Income can be sourced
from shares as well as a range
of other listed securities
including: government
bonds, corporate secured
debt, hybrid securities and
commercial real estate.
Brian Hrnjak B Bus CPA (FPS) is
a Director of GHR Accounting
Group Pty Ltd, Certified
Practising Accountants. Offices
at: Suite 12, Ground Floor,
20 Bungan Street Mona Vale
NSW 2103 and Shop 8, 9 – 15
Central Ave Manly NSW 2095,
Telephone: 02 9979-4300,
Webs: www.ghr.com.au and
www.altre.com.au Email:
brian@ghr.com.au
These comments are of a
general nature only and are
not intended as a substitute
for professional advice.
Business Life
The Local Voice Since 1991
NOVEMBER 2018 51
Business Life: Law
Business Life
The laws of nature, of
neighbours... and trees
Recently when visiting
friends, the car was parked
in their driveway and as
we greeted one another our
host rushed to ask that the
car be moved lest it become
another victim of a very large
eucalyptus of the ghost gum
type, whose branches hung over
the driveway from the house
next door.
It was explained that the tree,
some 40 metres in height, had
begun dropping very heavy
limbs from the top of the tree
and was a potential danger.
Our host explained that he
was having discussions with his
neighbour with a view to them
together arranging to have the
tree examined by an arborist
and an application made to the
local council for permission to
trim and reduce the tree and
make it safe. Photographic
evidence of fallen branches
over the driveway and lawn had
been shown to the neighbour.
However, some reluctance
concerning responsibility was
being encountered as the
neighbour had pointed out that
the limbs were not hanging over
his property, they were entirely
over our friend’s property.
Disputes between neighbours
can be extremely stressful,
often expensive, and difficult to
resolve.
A willingness to communicate
and come to some agreement
is essential with a realisation
that like so many aspects of
the law, a willingness to reach a
compromise is desirable.
Mediation is an excellent
alternative to legal action. It is
especially useful where you are
finding it difficult to talk directly
with your neighbor, or progress
is slow and where conflict has
become entrenched, or the
problem is escalating.
Mediation through Community
Justice Centres (CJC) is a free
confidential service. If you
contact the service it will contact
the other party and offer
mediation. If the other party is
agreeable a suitable time and
place is arranged. Two trained
mediators attend a session which
can last upwards of two hours. If
required, further sessions can be
scheduled. There are no waiting
lists.
Community Justice Centres
are established under the
Community Justice Centres Act
1983 and are administered by
the NSW Department of Justice.
Although the CJC system is
widely used, approximately
1500 disputes annually with an
80% success rate, it is not always
the solution.
Insofar as trees are
concerned, local councils are
responsible for protecting trees
through their Tree Preservation
Orders (TPOs) in terms of the
Environmental Planning and
Assessment Act 1979.
TPOs can prohibit ring
barking, cutting down, lopping,
removing, injuring or willful
destruction of specified trees
without council consent.
In the majority of council
areas, most trees on both
public and private property are
protected.
with Jennifer Harris
However, council has no
authority to act in disputes
between neighbours. This is why
it is desirable that even if you
are wanting to prune only 10% of
overhanging branches, to obtain
your neighbour’s consent and to
follow the process set out by the
council.
Tree removal which the council
will not permit may be briefly
summarised as follows:
n Tree work without the
signature of the owner or their
agent on application;
n Removing healthy, stable trees
or trees for views;
n Removing trees for solar
access, leaves, bird droppings
or damage to sewer pipes or
built structure;
n Removing trees for allergies
unless they can be medically
supported by a specialist
doctor;
n Removal of trees for fences,
footpaths or driveways;
n Removal of trees in bushland
or vegetation without a permit;
n Removal of trees where they
do not meet the criteria of the
permit.
Damaging or removing
trees illegally is considered a
serious offence. The Land and
Environment Court can impose
fines of up to $1.1 million, plus a
daily fee if the offence continues
and the offender may be directed
to plant trees and vegetation and
maintain them.
If the neighbour does not
52 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
agree to remove or prune a tree,
contact the CJC and if mediation
does not achieve a resolution
then seek legal advice if you
have not already done so – and
seek advice in terms of the Tree
(Disputes between Neighbours
Act 2006) aka ‘Trees Act’.
The Trees Act replaced the
somewhat complicated common
law action of nuisance which
had to be taken to the Supreme
Court. The Trees Act is cheaper
and simpler. An application can
now be made to the Land and
Environment Court for orders
concerning a neighbour’s tree or
trees that cause or are likely to
cause harm, or trees that form
high hedges obstructing sunlight
or views.
The Trees Act is divided into 2
major parts:
Part 2 – dealing with orders
relating to damage to
property;
Part 2A (introduced in 2010)
– dealing with orders
concerning obstruction
of sunlight or views by
trees that form a hedge.
There has over time been
some debate as to whether
the Court has jurisdiction
or power to make any order
under the Trees Act. It has
been determined that the tree
in question must be on land
adjoining that of the applicant’s
and can include land across
a public roadway from the
applicant or properties that
adjoin diagonally, having only
a corner post in common. (See
P Baer Investments Pty Ltd v
University of NSW [2007] LEC.128
and Cavalier v Young [2011] NSW
LEC1080)
The Act defines ‘tree’ as
including bamboo and vines
as well as any woody perennial
plant (shrub) or plant that
resembles a tree.
The practice of the court in
any action under the Trees Act is
to make a site visit. The Court’s
Commissioner, hearing the case
together with the parties and
any experts involved in the case,
attend the applicant’s property
to inspect the problem tree to
better understand the evidence.
Experts such as arborists,
engineers, architects or builders
in providing their evidence are
bound by the Court’s Expert
Witness Code of Conduct
The Court has established
some Tree Dispute Principles.
In Black v Johnson [No 2] [2007]
NSW LEC 513 it dealt with the
issue where the neighbour’s tree
had damaged the applicant’s
home or risked injuring people
around the home and, applying
the Tree Dispute Principle
applicable to the facts of this
case, decided who should pay
for the tree work or repairs.
Insofar as a claim of risk
of injury there must be some
evidence of the likelihood of
injury, not just an apprehension
or fear of injury. And damage
to property must similarly have
evidence – preferably expert
evidence to demonstrate to the
Court the claim – which is where
this article began and where the
resolution of the problem of the
ghost gum will occur.
Comment supplied by
Jennifer Harris, of Jennifer
Harris & Associates, Solicitors,
4/57 Avalon Parade,
Avalon Beach.
T: 9973 2011. F: 9918 3290.
E: jennifer@jenniferharris.com.au
W: www.jenniferharris.com.au
Business Life
The Local Voice Since 1991
NOVEMBER 2018 53
Business Life
Business Life: Law
Where there’s a will, there’s also a ‘wish’
Having practised as a solicitor on the
Northern Beaches for the past 25 years,
Wills & Wishes’ Jock Kennedy says he has
witnessed his fair share of stories when it
comes to people ageing and dying.
“Inevitably there are recurring themes,”
Jock tells Pittwater Life.
“Like the case where an estranged child is
left out of the Will, so he/she challenges the
Will, costing the estate a small fortune and
further dividing the remainder of the family.
“Or the couple (married or de facto)
with no children who die without having
made Wills and, because of the law
relating to intestacy and joint tenancy
property, their combined assets end up
with only one of their respective families
– for example the wife’s siblings and the
husband’s siblings miss out.”
The elderly feature often.
“Such as an elderly widow with early
onset dementia, but a generous demeanour,
who is taken financial advantage of by
the unconscionable conduct, or abuse of a
power, by a family member,” Jock said.
“Or the elderly person being kept alive,
bed-ridden and subject to ongoing procedures
and pain because of the medical
fraternity’s duty of care and the wishes of
the family – but not their own wishes.”
Jock explains there is a fix for every
problem: “Discuss it, plan it and most
importantly document it,” he said.
Jock says a Will is essential.
“Having even a simple Will means that
you appoint the people you want to
manage your estate and you decide who
receives it,” he said. “Without a Will, the
decision is made for you by the law and
can lead to all kinds of unfairness.”
Also, an Enduring Power of Attorney
and an Enduring Guardian is a must to
cover your loss of capacity.
“Again, it lets you decide who manages
your financial affairs and makes decisions
about your personal care.”
‘Wishes’, he explains, deals with “the
personal stuff”. It includes:
An Advance Care Directive, which is
prepared with the assistance of your GP
and is an essential document. It is a must
if you want to have a say in how your
life is managed in the event of certain
illnesses or accidents. Do you want to be
resuscitated if your quality of life is likely
to be extremely poor?
If your Will establishes trusts (called
Testamentary Trusts), it is a good idea to
arm your trustee with an Expression of
Wishes to help them manage the trust. For
example, “I would like my home not to be
sold until my youngest child turns 25”.
Finally, there is ‘The Wish List’ that
documents how you want to plan your
own farewell, be it large or small, to
guide your family/friends to deliver the
send-off you desire.
“This is a unique addition that Wills &
Wishes has designed to complement the
total estate planning package,” Jock said.
He concluded: “Finally, my own story
where my siblings and I didn’t know
what our mother wanted as her send-off
and whether she wanted her ashes to be
spread in Wales, or here in Australia – the
jury is still out.” – Nigel Wall
* More info visit willsandwishes.com.au
54 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
Trades & Services
Trades & Services
AUTO REPAIRS
British & Swedish Motors
Call 9970 6654
Services Range Rover, Land Rover,
Saab and Volvo with the latest in
diagnostic equipment.
Narrabeen Tyrepower
Call 9970 6670
Stocks all popular brands including
Cooper 4WD. Plus they’ll do all
mechanical repairs and rego inspections.
Barrenjoey Smash Repairs
Call 9970 8207
barrenjoeysmashrepairs.com.au
Re-sprays a specialty, plus
restoration of your favourite vehicle.
Commercial specialist.
BATTERIES
Battery Business
Call 9970 6999
Batteries for all applications. Won’t be
beaten on price or service. Free testing,
7 days.
BOAT SERVICES
Avalon Marine Upholstery
Call Simon 9918 9803
Makes cushions for boats, patio and
pool furniture, window seats.
CLEANING
The Aqua Clean Team
Call Mark 0449 049 101
Quality window washing,
pressure cleaning, carpet
washing, building soft wash.
Martin Earl House Wash
Call 0405 583 305
Pittwater-based owner on site at all
times. No travellers or uninsured casuals
on your property.
Housewashing Nthn Beaches
Call Ben 0408 682 525
Pressure cleaning & softwash. Window
& gutter cleaning. $10m insured. Used
by Estate Agents.
ELECTRICAL
Captain Cook Electrical
Call Blake 0488 849 124
Zero dollars call-out; offering discount
for Senior; 24-hour emergency service.
Family owned and operated.
Eamon Dowling Electrical
Call 0410 457 373
For all electrical, phone, TV and data
needs. Local business. Quality service
guaranteed.
FLOOR COVERINGS
Blue Tongue Carpets
Call Stephan 9979 7292
Family owned and run. Carpet, rugs,
runners, timber, bamboo, vinyl, tiles &
laminates. Open 6 days.
GARDENS
Graham Brooks
Call 0412 281 580
Tree pruning and removals. Reports
regarding DA tree management,
arborist reports.
Precision Tree Services
Call Adam 0410 736 105
Adam Bridger; professional tree
care by qualified arborists and tree
surgeons.
Special Branch Tree Services
Call Jason 0439 964 538
Qualified arborist, fully insured;
celebrating 20 years in Avalon and surrounding
areas.
KITCHENS
Seabreeze Kitchens
Call 9938 5477
Specialists in all kitchen needs;
design, fitting, consultation. Excellent
trades.
MASSAGE & FITNESS
Avalon Physiotherapy
Call 9918 3373
Provide specialist treatment for neck &
back pain, sports injuries, orthopaedic
problems.
Avalon Physiotherapy
& Clinical Pilates
Call 9918 0230
Dry needling and acupuncture, falls
prevention and balance
enhancement programs.
Avalon Beach Chiropractic
Call Sam 9918 0070
Professional care for all ages. Treatment
for chronic and acute pain,
sports injuries.
Francois Naef/Osteopath
Call Francois 9918 2288
Diagnosis, treatment and prevention for
back pain and sciatica, sports injuries,
muscle soreness, pregnancy-related
pain, imbalance.
PAINTING
Modern Colour
Call 0406 150 555
Simon Bergin offers painting and
decorating; clean, tidy, quality detail you
will notice. Dependable and on time.
AJJ Painting & Decorating
Call 0418 116 700
Andrew is a master painter with 30
years’ experience. Domestic and commercial;
reasonable rates, free quotes.
PEST CONTROL
Predator Pest Control
Call 0417 276 962
predatorpestcontrol.com.au
Environmental services at their best. Comprehensive
control. Eliminate all manner of
pests. They provide a 24-hour service.
PLUMBING
Nick Anderson Plumbing
Call Nick 0411 251 256
Specialist in gasfitting, drainage and
plumbing. Complete service, competitive
rates. Local and reliable – free quotes.
Pure Plumbing Professionals
Call 9056 8166
Zero dollars call-out – and you approve
56 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
the price before they begin. 24/7
Emergency Service. 10% pensioner
discount.
PUMPS & TANKS
Water Warehouse
Call 9913 7988
waterwarehouse.com.au
Rainwater tanks & pumps. Irrigation &
filter supply specialists.
RENOVATIONS
Backyard Cabins
Call 9973 1691
Avoid Council approval; studios,
workshops, cabins, teenage retreats.
Ideal for Airbnb.
Rob Burgers
Call 0416 066 159
Qualified builder provides all carpentry
needs; decks, pergolas, carports,
renos & repairs.
DISCLAIMER: The editorial and
advertising content in Pittwater
Life has been provided by a number
of sources. Any opinions expressed
are not necessarily those of the
Editor or Publisher of Pittwater Life
and no responsibility is taken for
the accuracy of the information
contained within. Readers should
make their own enquiries directly
to any organisations or businesses
prior to making any plans or
taking any action.
Trades & Services
The Local Voice Since 1991
NOVEMBER 2018 57
Trades & Services
RENOVATIONS CONT.
BlindLight
Call Dave 0403 466 350
Specialists in window tinting and
glass coatings. Act now for summer.
RUBBISH REMOVAL
One 2 Dump
Call Jason 0450 712 779
Seven-days-a-week pick-up service
includes general household rubbish,
construction, commercial plus vegetation.
Also car removals.
TUITION
Northern Beaches
Home Tutoring
Call John 9972 1469
1-ON-1 individual tutoring in your
home. All ages and subjects K-Uni.
Qualified tutors. WWC child protection
checked. Since 2009.
UPHOLSTERY
All Foam
Call 9973 1731
Cut to measure quality foam for day
beds, boats, caravans and more. Discounted
prices, reliable local service.
Free measure / quote.
Luxafoam North
Call 9999 5567
Local specialists in all aspects of
outdoor & indoor seating.
Custom service, expert advice.
Essyou Design
Call Susan 0422 466 880
Specialist in day bed and outdoor
areas. Reliable local service. Offering
domestic & commercial.
Leather Hero
Advertise your
Business in Trades
& Services section
Phone 0438 123 096
Call Leanne 0490 796 012
Specialists in leather cleaning,
revamps, repairs and colour restoration
for lounges, cars and boats.
Trades & Services
TUITION
Northern Beaches Home Tu toring
Call John 9972 1469
1-ON-1 individual tutoring in your home. All ages and subjects K-Uni.
Qualified tutors. WWC child protection checked. Since 2009.
58 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
the
good
life
dining
food
crossword
62
64
67
Showtime
Glenn is on his way!
The beaches’ pre-summer
heat is set for a ‘cool
change’ when Aussie popular
music legend Glenn Shorrock
takes to the stage at Dee Why
RSL on Friday November 30.
With a career as a singer
and songwriter spanning
more than 40 years – most
famously as the front man
for ’70s and ’80s hitmakers
Little River Band, Shorrock
says he can’t wait to delve
into his broad body of work,
including songs from his days
with The Twilights, Axiom
and of course LRB.
Shorrock’s return to
performing coincides with the
release of his autobiography,
‘Now Where Was I’ last June,
which he wrote after the
release of his last solo album
‘Rise Again’ in 2016.
‘I had a good lie down and
now I’m ready to go again,”
Glenn told Pittwater Life.
Shorrock began singing
with the Twilights in 1962,
achieving success with
hits including ‘Needle in a
Haystack’ and ‘Young Girl’,
before the group disbanded
in 1969.
Axiom with Brian Cadd
followed, with hits including
‘Little Ray of Sunshine’,
before Glenn helped form
Little River Band. The group
cracked the lucrative US
market in 1976 with a string
of top 10 hits, a success
echoed around the world with
songs including ‘Help Is On
Its Way’, ‘Shut Down Turn Off’
and ‘Reminiscing’.
He said he gets a real
thrill performing the classic
sailing anthem ‘Cool Change’:
“I wrote it and it continues
to connect with people –
something folks on the
northern beaches certainly
appreciate.
“I have been blessed
with a long and successful
career and I’m doing some
of my best work right at the
moment,” he said, adding he
had recently spent time in the
studio re-recording some LRB
classics.
Shorrock paid tribute to
our local RSLs and their
renewed investment in live
music, which he said was
appreciated immensely by his
contemporaries.
And if he had to name one
of those contemporaries as
someone he’d go to see live
himself?
“I have many friends who I
respect and admire so I can’t
pick one at the expense of
the others... oh okay – maybe
Wendy Matthews!”
* Tickets $35; more info
deewhyrsl.com.au
– Nigel Wall
Showtime
gardening
68
travel
72
NOVEMBER 2018 59
Tasty Morsels
Tasty Morsels
Newport ready
for a ‘baking’
hot summer
For more than
30 years from
the late 1960s,
383 Barrenjoey
Rd was the local
Newport bakery/pie
shop – now the site
has returned to its
grainy roots and the
tantalising aromas of
fresh-baked bread,
pies and coffee are
emanating from its
doors again.
The old ‘Surf Side
Pie Shop’, which started in
1968 and was taken over by
locals Lachie and Jan Hayes
in the mid-’70s, has been
‘reimagined’ – with David
Cummings and wife Bindy
(pictured) opening their
Bowan Island Bakery.
David established Sydney’s
original sourdough bakery
in 1989. After travelling
the world in the 1980s and
discovering sourdoughs and
other artisan breads in many
countries, he started baking
his own breads and pies in
a small garage in Hunters
Hill, selling the products at
Balmain and Glebe Markets
before setting up his first
baking enterprise in Drummoyne.
ents and premium Australian
flours.
“We do not use any artificial
additives or preservatives –
our sourdoughs are nourished
with a unique 85-year
old starter, or ‘mother
culture’, which gives them a
refined maturity in flavour,
a beautiful soft crumb and a
depth of rustic colours and a
blistered crust,” he said. “Our
“We moved to the Northern
Beaches over 30 years ago
and have brought up our four
children here,” he said. “We
have been wanting to bring
Bowan to this glorious part of
the world for years.”
David said customer feedback
suggested “nearly everyone”
graced Lachie’s counter
regularly – so many, in fact,
they’ve named a ‘Lachie’ pie
after him.
“The pies and sausage rolls
have been flying out the door,
as have the acai bowls, especially
the take-away option for
the teens,” said David. “And
our famous Christmas mince
pies will be on the counter imminently.”
He explained the team
sourced only quality ingredigoal
is to delight our customers
with our products – some
are healthy, and some are
indulgent... but all are treats!”
Passionate about coffee,
David has created Bowan
Island Bakery’s own blend.
“It combines seven singleorigin
beans, harmonising
sweet-spiced South American
caramels, earthy African
chocolates and lush citrus
Sumatran kickers,” he said.
David added that with such
a history and connection to
the site, they looked forward
to finding ways to work with
the community, including the
inspirational Sam Bloom and
her family, to help raise funds
for spinal cure charities.
(Cam Bloom fell in love with
his wife-to-be Sam – Lachie’s
daughter – whilst she was
serving him a pie.)
“The Newport vibe is awesome,”
he said. “Feels like
home – we’re blessed.”
– Nigel Wall
Cup runneth over at Jonah’s
Celebrate Melbourne Cup at Jonah’s on November 6 surrounded by
panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean from The Terrace balcony
overlooking Whale Beach (left).
Be greeted with a glass of Champagne Bollinger on arrival and enjoy a
three-course lunch inspired by the Spring menu, designed by Executive
Chef Matteo Zamboni. The Champagne Bollinger Bar will be flowing, along
with fashion shows by AQWA Women and live music throughout the day.
Dress for ‘fashion on the field’ for a chance to win Best Dressed prizes
offered by Jonah’s partners Bollinger, AQWA, Molton Brown, Vittoria coffee
and more.
$185 per person; bookings essential.
Also, Jonah’s is partnering with Henschke cellars for an exclusive wine
lovers’ affair featuring a five-course degustation dinner on Thursday November
1. Wine aficionados and enthusiasts will appreciate this unique
opportunity to celebrate the Henschke family’s 150 years of wine making
combined with the elegant ambience of the Jonah’s dining room.
* More info 9974 5599 or enquiries@jonahs.com.au
60 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
Dining Clubs Guide
Clubs Guide
November's best Club functions, concerts, events and meal deals...
Royal Motor
Yacht Club
Salt Cove on Pittwater
46 Prince Alfred
Parade, Newport
OPENING HOURS
Breakfast Lunch & Dinner
Mon-Fri from 8.30am
Weekends from 8am
PRICE RANGE
Breakfast from $8-$18
Entrees from $9-$21
Mains from $16-$26
BOOKINGS 9997 5511
RMYC’s restaurant Salt Cove
on Pittwater’s menu has been
updated for spring – but it
still offers affordable meals
and generous servings including
a variety of starters
and share plates, seafood,
burgers, grills, salads, desserts
and woodfired pizza.
Friday night music kicks
off in the Lounge Bar from
6.30pm. Great acts in November
include Sarah Paton (2nd);
Jim Gannon (9th); Keff McCulloch
(16th); Geoff Kendall (23rd)
and Alex Roussos (30th).
Melbourne Cup Luncheon
is on Tuesday November 6
(from 12 noon to 4pm). Enjoy
a three-course lunch with
sparkling wine on arrival and
entertainment from Emily
Garth ($80 members, $90 nonmembers).
Bookings essential.
Also in Novemberr, catch up
with the Travel View / Cruise
View Travel Club at the meeting
in the lounge bar from
10.30am on Monday 5th.
Book now for Christmas Day
lunch in the Top Deck Function
Room ($125 adults, $50 kids
5-12, $30 kids 3-4) or Garden
Forecourt ($115 adults, kids'
prices as above). Enjoy a sumptuous
buffet with seafood and
traditional Christmas fare.
Trivia is held every Tuesday
night from 7.30pm (great
prizes and vouchers – 12 years
plus).
Club Boat and Social memberships
are now available for
just $160.
Barrenjoey
Bistro
Club Palm Beach
1087 Barrenjoey Rd,
Palm Beach
BISTRO OPENING HOURS
Lunch 11:30am-2.30pm
Dinner 6pm-8.30pm
PRICE RANGE
Lunch and dinner
specials $13.50
BOOKINGS 9974 5566
Head to Club Palm Beach,
located a short stroll from
Palm Beach Wharf, for a
special Remembrance Day
service on November 11.
It's 100 years since the
Armistace that ended World
War I; there will be ceremony
at the Club from 11am.
Melbourne Cup is on
Tuesday Nov 6; watch the race
and enjoy a bucket of prawns
with champagne for $26.50.
There's live raceday coverage
on the big screen plus sweeps
and onsite TAB facilities.
'Cruising Palm Beach' is a
great outing for groups of 10
or more – it includes a cruise
around Pittwater followed by
lunch at the Club for just $25
per person.
Barrenjoey Bistro is open
for lunch (11.30am to 2.30pm)
and dinner (6pm to 9pm)
seven days, plus there's a
Snack Menu available 2.30pm-
6pm.
The Bistro serves topvalue
a la carte meals plus
daily $13.50 specials of roasts
(Mondays), rump steak with
chips and salad (Tuesdays),
chicken schnitzel with chips
and salad (Wednesdays),
62 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
homemade gourmet pies with
chips and salad (Thursdays)
and tempura fish and chips
with salad (Fridays), except
public hols.
The Members’ lucky badge
draw is held Wednesday and
Friday night (every 30 mins
between 5pm-7pm), and jackpots
by $100 each week.
Enjoy Trivia Night from
5.30pm on Wednesdays, plus
Bingo 10am on Fridays.
The club has a courtesy
bus that makes regular runs
Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays
from 4.30pm to 9pm.
Ring to book a pick-up.
Bistro 61
Avalon Beach RSL
1 Bowling Green Lane
Avalon Beach
OPENING HOURS
Open 7 days
Lunch 12pm-2:30pm
Dinner 5:30-8:30pm
CUISINE
Modern Aust / pub food
PRICE RANGE
Meals $8-$30
Specials $12-$15
BOOKINGS 9918 2201
Avalon Beach RSL’s Bistro 61
is a great place to head for
a local meal, offering tasty
modern Australian dishes at
affordable prices.
Surf Lounge music
sessions in November kick
off 8.30pm on Saturdays,
including Isaiah B Brunt Trio
(3rd), Ziggy McNeil (10th) and
NativoSoul (17th).
Thinking Christmas party
or function? Their new Stella
Room is the ideal venue.
And now available for free
download – the new Avalon
Beach RSL Club App. Earn
rewards, prizes and member
points by logging in daily.
See what's on, check out
events, view menus and more!
Don't miss the Super
Sunday raffle on the first
Sunday of the month – there's
more than $1500 in prizes.
Here's a great new way to
start the week – 'Wine Not
Monday' – with $15 bottles
of wine, $5 Peronis and $10
pasta and pizzas.
Bistro 61 is open for
The Local Voice Since 1991
breakfast from 9am to
11.30am. Open for lunch
and dinner seven days, with
extensive outdoor dining
areas, Bistro 61 offers a
variety of specials (lunch
and dinner) during the week,
including $12 tacos (Tues),
$15 Chicken Schnitzels (Wed),
2-4-1 pizzas (Thurs), and a
$20 burger + beer (Fri).
Seniors are well catered
for – there are daily Seniors
specials, including beerbattered
flathead – plus
they do a $5 kids meals
on Sundays! (There’s a
playground, too.)
From the menu, chef
Mitch recommends his twist
on nachos – pulled beef and
blackbeans with chipotle,
corn chips, guacamole,
Danish fetta and coriander.
Members get discounts
on meals purchased.
Membership from $5.50!
The club is licensed, with
no BYO. Bookings online or
call 9918 2201 – large groups
welcome.
NOVEMBER 2018 63
Dining Clubs Guide
Food Life
Quick & healthy options
to help you start the day
We all know breakfast is the most important meal of the
day. At a conference I attended recently about healthy
eating, I learnt it’s just as important to mix up what
we eat at breakfast time to keep our body and metabolism
guessing – a bit like exercising. So here are a couple of great
ideas to suit all occasions – for an ideal breakfast on-the-go;
make-ahead; and also a 'quick fix'. Also, these options will
leave you more time at the beginning of a busy day, so you
won’t start your morning stressed out!
with Janelle Bloom
Food Life
Recipes: Janelle Bloom Photos: Adobe Stock. Poached eggs Steve Brown; stevebrownphotography.com
Strawberry
smoothie
Makes 2
200g fresh strawberries,
hulled, chopped
1 banana, peeled, chopped
1 cup Greek natural yoghurt
1 cup reduced fat milk
6 large ice cubes
2 tsp LSA
2 tsp honey
1. Put all the ingredients into
a blender and blend until
thick and smooth. Pour into
chilled glass and serve.
Variations: Replace the banana
with 1 chopped mango, 2 cans
of pear halves or 200g fresh or
frozen raspberries.
Health Tip: LSA is made from
ground linseeds, sunflower seeds
and almonds. It’s rich in protein,
which helps to keep blood-sugar
levels balanced and curb sugar
cravings. Once opened, store
in an airtight jar in the fridge or
freezer to keep fresh.
Janelle’s Tip:
Muesli will keep
for a month
in an airtight
container.
Homemade
toasted muesli
Makes 4 cups
¼ cup honey
¼ cup maple syrup
¼ cup light olive oil or coconut
oil
3 cups traditional rolled oats
¼ cup quinoa
½ cup bran flakes
1 cup mixed seeds (sunflower,
pepita, sesame, linseeds)
½ cup flaked coconut
1 cup nuts (almonds, pecans,
macadamia)
1. Preheat oven to 160°C fan
forced. Lightly grease a
large, deep roasting pan.
Combine honey, maple
syrup and oil in a small
saucepan. Warm over
medium heat until honey
has melted.
2. Combine remaining
ingredients in the roasting
pan. Pour over warm
honey mixture. Mix
until well coated. Spread
mixture evenly over base
of the pan. Bake for 30
minutes, stirring every 10
minutes, or until golden
and toasted. Set aside to
cool completely; muesli
will form into clusters on
cooling. Transfer to an
airtight container until
ready to serve.
3. Serve with milk, a
little honey and summer
berries.
64 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
For more recipes go to www.janellebloom.com.au
Janelle’s Tip:
Loaf is delicious
toasted and
served topped
with scrambled,
poached or a
soft boiled egg.
Zucchini loaf
Serves 6
2 cups self raising flour
2 tbs brown sugar
2 tsp ground cinnamon
½ cup buttermilk
2 eggs
½ cup extra light olive oil
1¼ cup shredded cheddar
cheese
2 tbs chopped fresh chives
1 cup grated zucchini
1. Preheat oven to 180°C fan
forced. Grease and Line a
20 x 10cm (base) loaf pan.
2. Combine the flour, sugar
and cinnamon in a large
bowl. Using a fork, whisk
together the buttermilk,
eggs and oil. Pour into
the flour mixture, stir to
combine. Don’t over-mix
the batter.
3. Stir in the cheese, chives
and zucchini. Spoon into
prepared loaf pan. Bake for
50-60 minutes or until a
skewer inserted in the centre
of the bread comes out
clean. Serve warm spread
with ricotta or cream
cheese.
The Local Voice Since 1991
Poached eggs with
Worcestershire
mushrooms
Serves 2
4 fresh, free range eggs, at
room temperature
Hot buttered toast to serve
Worcestershire mushrooms
30g butter
400g mixed mushrooms,
sliced
3 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1. To poach the eggs, half-fill
a deep (at least 6cm deep)
wide frying pan with water.
Bring to a simmer over medium-high
heat. Crack 1 egg
onto a saucer. Slide egg into
the water, then gently stir
the water to form a gentle
whirlpool until the egg starts
to float. Repeat with remaining
eggs. Simmer, without
stirring, for 3 minutes.
Remove with a slotted spoon
to a clean tea towel.
2. Meanwhile, for the Worcestershire
mushrooms, melt
butter in a frying pan
over high heat, add the
mushrooms and sauté 3-4
minutes or until tender. Add
Worcestershire sauce, cook
1 minute.
Janelle’s Tip:
You can add
a teaspoon of
white vinegar
to the simmering
water if
your eggs are
not really fresh.
This will help
to set the white
quickly.
3. Spoon the mushrooms onto
toast, top with eggs, season
and serve.
NOVEMBER 2018 65
Food Life
Food Life
In Season
Australian
Food Life
Garlic
Garlic is a staple in every
cook’s kitchen. Garlic
has no aroma until cut. Once
the cell walls are disturbed
(chopped, crushed etc) a
sulphur compound is released.
This compound is destroyed
when heated and that’s why
cooked garlic is milder to eat
and less potent on the breath.
Availability
Although available yearround,
the Australian season
is at its peak from October
through to the end of April.
Preparation
Separate the cloves from
the head. Place a clove on a
chopping board and place
the flat side of a large knife
on top. Press down lightly to
crush the clove; this makes
it easier to peel.
Buying
When buying garlic, look
for heads that are heavy
for their size, enclosed in
dry, papery layers. Avoid
any with soft spots or that
are sprouting. Sprouting is
an indicator that the garlic
is old. Sometimes garlic
will start to sprout once
you bring it home. It’s not
harmful to eat, but should
be removed using a small
sharp knife
Storage
Store in a cool dry place
for up to 1 month (do not
refrigerate).
Nutrition
Garlic has high levels of
vitamin C, vitamin B6, and
manganese, and selenium
which is a powerful antioxidant.
As garlic is generally
consumed in small quantities
it supplies only a small
amount of our daily recommended
intake of nutrients.
Cooking tip
Be careful not to cook past
golden brown, or it will
become bitter.
Also In Season
November
Look out for Asian Greens;
Hass Avocadoes; Broad
beans & Green beans;
Beetroot; Fresh Peas;
Aussie Garlic, Green Onions
and Silverbeet while the
top fruit buys are Bananas,
Blueberries, Strawberries
and Pineapple.
Margherita pizza
Serves 4
1 head garlic
2 tbs extra virgin olive oil
2 large flatbread or pizza bases
3/4 cup tomato passata
2 large, ripe tomatoes, sliced
2 cups grated mozzarella
1 cup basil leaves
1. Preheat oven to 180°C fan
forced. Cut 1cm off the top of
garlic to expose cloves. Place
garlic in a piece greased foil.
Drizzle with 2 teaspoons of
the oil, sprinkle with salt and
pepper. Wrap tightly in the
foil. Bake 30 minutes or until
garlic is soft. Cool. Gently
squeeze garlic cloves from
skin into a bowl. Stir in the
remaining oil.
2. Put two large baking trays
into the oven, increase oven
to 220°C fan forced. Spoon
the garlic oil evenly over
both flatbreads or pizza
bases.
3. Spoon over the passata
then top with tomatoes and
mozzarella. Transfer pizzas
the hot baking trays and
bake 10 minutes or until
base is golden and crisp.
Scatter over the basil. Season
and serve.
Photo: Steve Brown; stevebrownphotography.com
66 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
Pittwater Puzzler
Compiled by David Stickley
CLUE: 20 Down
ACROSS
1 Groups of kangaroos (4)
3 Features of older houses that run around
the outside (8)
9 Weather monitoring equipment that was
very much in play during October (4,5)
11 Do what you do (5)
12 Legendary bushranger (3,5)
13 Registered trademark for rigid-hulled
inflatable boats (6)
14 Golf club (4)
15 Leafy growth much sought after during
the hot summer months (5,4)
17 Former Governor of NSW after which a
significant parkway was named (9)
19 The garden of a house (4)
22 A publication’s supplementary
advertising (6)
23 Ingleside’s St Sava is described as this
kind of Serbian church (8)
25 Source of petrol, diesel, and other
fuels commonly (5)
26 Old computer unit needed to access
large amounts of data (4,5)
27 Describing the Holiday Park in
Narrabeen (8)
28 An unwanted plant (4)
DOWN
1 & 8-down Invaluable service to ensure
the safety of all boat users (6,6)
2 Construction company like Peninsula
Homes in Warriewood (7)
4 A goal that brings scores level (9)
5 A space allocated for a specific
purpose (4)
6 Treasure trove collected by local
engineer Bob Moran (9,4)
7 A person serving in or having served in
an army (7)
8 See 1-down
10 Legendary Aussie popular music
identity who will perform at Dee Why RSL
on Friday November 30 (5,8)
16 A major division of the animal
kingdom, with segmented bodies and
jointed appendages (9)
17 An odd or fanciful notion (6)
18 Bird and a type of sailing dinghy (7)
20 Cabernet sauvignon, shiraz or claret,
for example (3,4)
21 Add more rooms to a house (6)
24 Distributors of cash on the Northern
Beaches (1,1,2)
[Solution page 70]
Pittwater Puzzler
The Local Voice Since 1991
NOVEMBER 2018 67
Garden Life
Garden Life
Delight Flamenco in hibiscus the amazing makes
colours brilliant of stamp hydrangeas of colour
Lush,
Always tropical
a favourite
Hawaiian
for
hibiscus were in
Christmas demand in colour, the ’80s hydrangeas
and ’90s but as the ‘new
look’ and
are
trend
flowering
towards
their
low maintenance
heads
became
off!
popular,
They look
their
wonderful
popularity waned. The
Hawaiian
in the
hibiscus
garden,
were
brightening
grafted plants grown by
the
specialist
semi-shaded
nurseries,
areas
but many
and
of these nurseries
glowing closed as in clipped the full, hedges protected and strap-leaved plants
sunlight. took over Once and hibiscus the older were hard to buy.
varieties The huge were flowers either of pink the older or hibiscus lasted
blue just one depending day and the on shrubs the soil, needed constant
additional care. The warm, lime will tropical deepen gardens of the northern
the beaches pinks are and boosted blueing by tonic a flash of colour – and
(sulphate nothing can of compete aluminium) with will bright, spectacular
heighten flowers of the blues, new flamboyant but the Flamenco hibiscus.
new They named will flower varieties continuously will for nine months
maintain of the year, their with colour. blooms White that will last on the
never bushes changes. for up to There five or are six days before they
hydrangeas fade. The compact of every plants size are from great for pots,
the mass tiny planting dwarf in Piamina garden to beds the or even as a low
tall hedge traditional in the full Mop sun. Heads. If space is limited, plants
With that have so many been to trained choose as from standards are available.
it is They almost look too stunning difficult as focal to points of in the garden traditional mop Hibiscus heads, have few
that
problems.
can be two
They
metres
should
tall.
decide. beds, or There in tubs are on the sunny delicate balconies the or patios cone-shaped be flowers cut back of by a third The recently in late spring, introduced as they
lace with caps, colourful the petunias, huge blooms white allysum hydrangea or trailing, paniculata flower bushes on new growth. smaller Feed growing with a Picotee fertiliser that
silver dichondra growing underneath. There are will promote flowers varieties – I use with Sudden two-tone Impact flower for
nine different colours to choose from: white, plus Roses. Their only heads problem are is hard the hibiscus to leave beetle behind
the bright and if green you have leaves a semi-
and
pinks, yellows, salmon, tangerine and scarlet. that eats holes in
Their huge, single, frilly petalled blooms lives in the flower shaded buds. (Granular wall, the BugKilla climbing from
have dark centres.
Richgro will control hydrangea these irritating petiolaris insects.) is just
beautiful.
Hydrangeas are forgiving
Little Angel
plants
daisies
L
that are easy to grow.
ow-growing borders
They
add colour.
like regular
Little
water
Angel
and
is a
tight, compact plant
any
that
good
will easily
garden
adapt
soil.
to
Mulch
any
sunny position. It will gradually
the roots
carpet
with compost
the garden
to
edge with rosettes of bright
keep them
green
cool
leaves.
and
The
feed
large,
pure white, yellow-centred
them
daisies
in early
will
spring
appear
to
all
get
through the summer months.
them going. Grow them in
Little Angel makes a
pots,
great
or
border;
in the
it
garden;
will grow
bring
between pavers or down
them
the
inside
centre
when
of a driveway.
in flower
Pick the flowers and add
or
them
cut the
to
blooms
bunches
–
of
they
scarlet
last
geraniums for Christmas
well
table
in water.
decorations.
with Gabrielle Bryant
Christmas
bush that’s
a ‘Cracker’
New Zealand Christmas
Bush is an old favourite
for seaside gardens. The
soft, grey foliage is salttolerant
and tough. In the
past few years there have
Cherry been many new Guava varieties a
sweet
under cultivation.
surprise
All are
Ifantastic hedging plants for
n
salt
full
or
flower
as wind
in my
breaks.
veggie
garden
The newest
is my Cherry
newcomer
Guava,
is
sometimes
Metrosideros
known
Fire
as
Cracker.
a Strawberry
Fire Cracker
Guava. This
has
delightful
all the
evergreen
hardiness
shrub
of its
never
parentage
fails to
produce
but is quite
a heavy
different
crop of
in
cherry
guavas
appearance.
in early
Fire
autumn.
Cracker
is
It
a
is
perfect
a small,
name
pretty
for
tree
the
with
rounded,
explosion
glossy
of colour
green
in
leaves
the
that
new
only
leaves:
grows
bright
to about
yellow,
three
gold,
metres
pink and
in height.
scarlet
Keep
that
it
trimmed
cover the
into
dark
shape
green
after
and
fruiting.
gold
The
variegation
delicate fluffy
of the
flowers
older
are
leaves.
creamy white, growing close
to the
Grown
branches.
as a hedge
They are
that
followed
is
clipped,
by the
the
tangy
amazing
flavoured,
colours
sweet,
will dazzle
berry-sized,
you. It
cherry
can reach
red
fruit
a height
that are
of
high
three
in
metres
vitamin
and
C.
Unlike
grow
the
to be
taller-growing
two metres
deciduous
wide
if left
yellow
as an
guava
informal
that needs
shrub.
cooking,
This is a
the
Christmas
fruit can be
bush
eaten
that
raw
is grown
straight
for
from
its
the
leaves
tree
alone.
or
used
I have
in cooking,
never seen
jellies,
one
drinks,
flower.
sauces or jams.
You should protect the fruit
from fruit fly with a fruit fly bait.
Get into the
‘swing’ of Xmas
It is time to relax and enjoy
your garden. Look at your
outdoor seating requirements
– the shops are full of
amazing chairs and tables.
Hanging cane egg chairs have
been trendy for the past few
years and now the ‘Swing
Seat’ is back. Nothing is more
peaceful than swinging in a
seat for two, sheltered from
the weather with a roof to
shade from the sun – makes a
great Christmas present too!
72 68 NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2017 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
Spice things
up with
turmeric
Not only is turmeric great for
aches and pains, arthritis and
rheumatism, it is a delightfully
decorative plant in the garden.
Turmeric is a member of the
ginger family, native to India and
Pakistan.
The attractive, tall, bright
green leaves that can grow up
to a metre in height, are perfectly complemented by
the spikes of pure white flowers that can be tinged with pink.
Turmeric grows from knotty rhizomes under the ground.
The new growth appears every spring and then dies down
in winter. This is when the spice can be harvested. The orange
rhizomes can be used freshly grated or in a dried, powdered
form. It is used extensively in curries as a spice, for colouring
dye and as a tea for aches and pains.
Turmeric is easy to grow in warm humid conditions. Plant the
rhizomes (I got mine from a fresh vegetable organic health food
shop) in good, rich soil that drains well. The plants love plenty
of water – but not ‘wet feet’.
Their natural habitat is dappled light at the edge of subtropical
rain forests. The plants will grow in full shade but will
produce a higher yield with some sunlight.
If space is a problem, turmeric makes a very attractive pot
plant indoors, in a sunny window, or grown outside.
Flannel flowers:
short but so sweet
The soft, velvety flowers of
the native Flannel flowers
appear every year in late spring
along the road sides, from
crevices in the rocky kerbs and
in the stony soil under the gum
trees in the bush.
Flannel flowers are shortliving
plants, lasting just a
couple of years. Seeds are
hard to find and germinate
erratically, but established
plants are in garden centres,
potted. These amazing silver/
grey native plants love full sun
or semi-shade; they will grow in
any well-drained soil (they hate
‘wet feet’).
If your garden is damp or
your soil is heavy clay, they
will suffer from root problems
and fungal disease. You will
have to mound up the soil with
additional sand; or better still,
grow them in pots.
They don’t need native
potting mix – any good potting
mix will do. When planting,
remove the plants from their
pot very carefully with as little
disturbance to the root ball as
possible. Flannel flowers hate
their roots to be disturbed.
Make sure you tip-prune the
plants on a regular basis to
keep them bushy. The more
tips, the more flowers you
will get. Water them in with a
seaweed solution at the time of
planting, and feed with a waterbased
fertiliser every three or
four weeks. (Eco-Aminogrow
is an organic fertiliser that is
great for native plants.)
Garden Life
The Local Voice Since 1991
NOVEMBER 2018 69
Garden Life
Jobs this Month
Garden Life
October yielded rain,
rain... and more rain!
We needed the water –
but maybe not quite so much.
Time now to repair the garden
– and control the weeds! Get
on top of weeds before they
get out of control; Slasher is
a non-selective, non-residual
weed killer that will work in
hours if sprayed on a sunny
day. It is a natural product
made from plant oils that is
completely safe to use. It will
kill weeds, moss, algae and
lichen. Then cover the earth
with a thick mulch of compost
or sugarcane mulch.
Aerate lawns
Lawns have suffered from
heavy rain. Aerate the grass
with the tynes of a garden
fork. If you have a large area,
hire a spiked roller to do the
job. Lightly top-dress with
lawn topdressing any bare
patches and sprinkle with
seed. Check with the garden
centre for compatibility of the
seed with the grass that you
have.
Trim time
Cut back the old canes of
ornamental gingers to make
space for the new growth to
pop up. Also, remove seed
heads of agapanthus flowers
before the seeds stray into the
bush. Trim back bottlebrushes
and grevilleas after flowering
to promote new healthy
growth. Feed native plants
with Bush Tucker fertiliser.
Attract bees
Encourage the bees to your
veggie garden. Spray with
Bee Keeper every week.
Bee Keeper is a natural bee
attractant that will encourage
bees to forage and maximise
pollination of flowering crops.
Purple reign
November is a month of
mauve haze in the garden,
with jacarandas in flower.
Nothing is more beautiful
than a purple carpet of fallen
flowers – but beware if they
rain continues they will
become very slippery. Sweep
them up on a regular basis.
Pet watch
Brunfelsias, Yesterday, Today
and Tomorrow are flowering
now. These shrubs are tough
and reliable garden plants that
deserve a place in any garden;
but beware if you have a dog
– the seeds that follow are
poisonous.
Miner problems
Watch out for leaf miner and
November
fruit fly on citrus and fruiting
trees. A fruit fly lure will
attract the male fruit fly and
Eco oil sprayed at fortnightly
intervals will control the leaf
miner that curls and distorts
the new leaves.
Aphid control
Aphids in the garden love new
shoots – a yellow sticky trap
will keep them under control.
Be careful where you hang the
sticky trap. The glue is very
strong; it will trap small birds
and lizards as well as aphids!
Veggie crops
Plant follow-up crops of
beans, tomatoes, carrots
Prepare for colour
Pull out the last of the spring
flowering annuals and replant with
petunias, dahlias, alyssum, lobelia,
nasturtiums, salvia and French
marigolds for summer colour.
and silver beet in the veggie
garden. Keep planting every
three or four weeks for
ongoing harvests through
summer.
Crossword solution from page 67
Mystery location: BAYVIEW
70 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
Times Past
Study of women in community
Women of all ages are
a vital component
of any community.
Avalon Beach has seen many
remarkable women contribute
to its fabric and over many
years. To illustrate, this month
we look at three women
from different eras with very
different experiences…
Catherine Collins and her
husband Jeremiah sailed
from County Cork, Ireland, on
board the ‘Elphinstone’ with
their nine children in 1839.
The Collins family
established a large dairy farm
covering the whole of North
Avalon, on land rented from
the Reverend Father Therry at
35 pounds per year. Therry,
who had also come from Cork,
had received grants in the area
totalling 1380 acres.
In the ‘wilds of Pittwater’
Catherine helped establish and
run the farm, educated the
children, and grew vegetables
and crops for the family and
animals. According to one
caller in 1861, the interior
of the cottage, which had an
earthen floor, “was the very
beau ideal of cleanliness and
care”. With little opportunity
to take Mass at Careel Bay,
she once walked (via Lane
Cove Road) to Sydney for Mass
because she didn’t like riding.
Grace Wickham came with
her husband Stan and their
two young children, Lois
and ‘Mac’ in 1924 to take up
the tenancy of Mr Small’s
‘new general store’. After a
disagreement, the Wickham’s
ERAS APART: Local achievers Brenda Kable, Catherine Collins and Grace Wickham.
built their own store in 1934
on the diagonally opposite
corner (now Chambers
Cellars). While Stan was out
delivering orders, Grace
ran the store, as well as the
post office within the store,
redirected phone calls to
locals, sold groceries, handled
holiday lettings, was the agent
for the Bank of NSW, raised
and educated her children and
as a nurse, acted as the interim
GP until Dr Sanders arrived
in the 1950s. Grace was also a
keen bowler and a foundation
member of the Avalon Beach
Women’s Bowling Club.
Tragically, while on duty
in the shop, she took the
telegram which notified her
of the death of her son while
flying in France for the RAF
in 1939.
Brenda Kable was one of
those many women who, with
their family, settled in Avalon
Beach post-WWII. Brenda had
previously found it necessary
to spend much of her time in
ships. Her husband Garvon
was a Sargeant Navigator in
the RAAF and then in the
Naval Fleet Air Arm. Trips
to England, Melbourne and
the USA with two of her
later four children, required
many school changes,
understanding their needs
and without forming any
lasting friendships. However
she turned travels into
exciting adventures, making
the most of sightseeing and
educational opportunities.
After settling into Avalon
Beach in 1955 she supported
her husband in his work with
the APT and then started the
Avalon Community Library in
1983. In 1998 she was awarded
an OAM for her work with the
Pangloss Circle, settling new
migrants into Australia.
TIMES PAST is supplied
by local historian
and President of the
Avalon Beach Historical
Society GEOFF SEARL.
Visit the Society’s
showroom in Bowling
Green Lane, Avalon
Beach.
Times Past
The Local Voice Since 1991
NOVEMBER 2018 71
Travel Life
Travel Life
Open golf odyssey
There are golfing trips – and there are
golfing trips. The team at GOLFSelect,
one of Australia’s premier golf holiday
organisers, have put together a package
which is mind-blowingly good.
In July 2019, join hosts Gary Lisbon and
Matthew Ridge on an escorted tour to
Northern Ireland and Scotland to coincide
with the Open Championship at worldrenowned
Royal Portrush GC.
This tour includes: Playing Royal
Portrush the week after the Open; two
rounds on the World #1 course Royal
County Down in Northern Ireland; the
Ailsa Course at Turnberry (above); Royal
Troon; historic Prestwick (host of the first
Open); Royal Belfast; and Portstewart.
(More golf available for keen golfers.)
Accommodation is top-end – the
Bushmills Inn with its famous distillery
for Royal Portrush; the exclusive Slieve
Donard Hotel at the foot of the Mourne
Mountains for Royal County Down; in
Belfast the Titanic Hotel; and the five-star
Trump Turnberry for the Scottish courses.
Over 13 nights, with luxury transfers and
limited to just 16 places, it truly is a rare
golf opportunity open to singles, couples
and non-golfing partners. Places filling fast
– more info golfselect.com.au – Nigel Wall
Sydney
to Hobart
in style
Here’s your
chance to experience
the nautical
tradition that is
the 74th Sydney
to Hobart inter- national yacht race
– but in luxury rather than the Spartan
existence of a crew!
Embarking in Palm Beach on December
26, soak up the excitement of the start
from the Coral Discoverer’s vantage point
off Sydney’s North Head. Watch the fleet
sail past as you hear from the on-board
analyst Tony Carpenter.
The cruise hugs the south coast and
crosses Bass Strait with the trailing fleet.
Enjoy the scenic rugged Tasmanian coast
with the opportunity to join the expedition
team on several guided shore excursions
to Tasmania’s scenic parks.
Coral Discoverer arrives in Hobart on
New Year’s Eve, when you will join the
festivities of the big race’s presentations
and see in the New Year, before disembarking
on January 1.
* More info coralexpeditions.com or call
1800 079 545.
72 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
Up close with timeless treasures of Europe
Silversea is taking guests closer to the
timeless treasures of Europe with the
choice of three exclusive offers for its
2019 European Collection.
Travel View’s Karen Robinson says their
incredible offers enable guests to experience
a rich diversity of itineraries across
Silversea’s ever popular 2019 European
Collection, showcasing the authentic
beauty of the Mediterranean, Northern
Europe and the British Isles.
“Offering an unparalleled variety of destinations,
guests will get closer than ever to
the eternal romance of Europe,” she said.
In 2019, Silversea will visit 13 countries
in the Mediterranean encompassing Iberia,
the Western Mediterranean, Italy, the
Adriatic and the Eastern Mediterranean.
“Guests will have the option to travel
aboard Silver Shadow or Silver Whisper,
two of the most intimate ultra-luxury
cruise ships in the Mediterranean, or
Silver Spirit,” Karen said.
In Northern Europe and the British
Isles, a number exciting of itineraries
offer guests the chance to discover The
Baltic, the Norwegian Fjords and North
Cape, the British Isles, Iceland, and the
Atlantic Coast.
Karen said Silversea was committed to
unlocking new destinations and travelling
to more ports than any other cruise line.
Late departures and overnight stays in
iconic destinations such as Monte Carlo
and Portofino would also allow guests
more time to explore and immerse themselves
in local cultures during their travel
experience.
Highlights in the Mediterranean
include: Silversea Shadow’s 2019 Mediterranean
Grand Voyage, which will
see her spend 47 days visiting the best
destinations in the region; The Grand Prix
Cruise, a specialised 5-day round trip to
Nice aboard Silver Shadow, taking in the
glamour of the Monaco Grand Prix and;
two Opera voyages which will see two
soloists from the Accademia Teatro alla
Scala of Milan deliver exclusive performances
from the world’s most magical
operas.
“Notable itineraries in Northern Europe
and the British Isles in 2019 include sailing
through Tower Bridge to the heart of
London; two culinary voyages featuring
special menus, cooking demonstrations
and guided visits to local markets and; a
wine voyage, travelling between Barcelona
and London with the opportunity to
enjoy lectures from world-class experts,
with tastings and optional private tours,”
Karen said.
“Silversea vessels are specifically
designed to allow guests to disembark
closer to town, maximising the amount of
time spent exploring.”
She added small islands off the UK
coast which were not accessible to other
ships offered Silversea guests unique
cruising experiences such as sailing
through the Kiel Canal, or small ports
such as Portimao, Amalfi, Trapani, Patmos,
Hvar and Hydra.
More info 9918 4444 or 9999 0444.
Travel Life
The Local Voice Since 1991
NOVEMBER 2018 73
Travel Life
Travel Life
Talk the walk: Luxury Camino journey
Travelling the Camino is an exciting
journey and one that’s generating a
lot of interest among travellers looking
for an inspirational getaway; taking the
journey with Captain’s Choice allows
you to experience it with everything
considered and included – even the
luxury of a vehicle to whisk you
onwards at any point, so you can really
enjoy the experience at your own pace.
Following a path of ancient scallop
shells, where adventure and the divine
connect, you can walk the most magnificent
legs of the Camino Francés with
expert guides.
“Commencing in Saint Jean Pied de
Port, the historical starting point in
France, Captain Choice’s Crux of the
Camino 21-day journey gives you the
opportunity to trek more than 200
kilometres spread out over 11 walking
days. This qualifies us for the
Compostela, a certificate that attests
our effort,” says Karen Robinson from
Travel View.
By day, take full advantage of the astonishing
landscape by having a picnicstyle
lunch – with your toughest decision
being which meadow to enjoy it in.
Your taste buds will also be pampered
at Michelin-starred restaurants like
Frank Gehry’s Hotel Marqués De Riscal.
At night your weary limbs will gratefully
rest in luxury stays from paradors and
monasteries to fine hotels.
Also, the comfort of a courtesy
vehicle is at your disposal. At any point,
you may choose to stop walking. The
vehicle will chauffeur you directly to
your hotel, no questions asked. Trailing
the group closely, it also serves as a
mobile refreshment station, stocked
with nibbles, sandwiches and drinks.
(Even wine, if you are so inclined.)
“The Camino is a chameleon, displaying
different shades of beauty in each
season. It’s a must-do experience for
everyone,” says Karen.
She added a special three-day architectural,
cultural and culinary pre-tour
in San Sebastian was also available.
* Join Travel View for an information
evening on 28 November from 6pm;
RSVP by 18 November. Call to secure
your spot – Avalon 9918 4444 or Collaroy
9999 0444.
74 NOVEMBER 2018
The Local Voice Since 1991
Change language