Pittwater Life May 2022 Issue

The Local Voice Since 1991
MAY 2022
FREE
pittwaterlife
MEET MACKELLAR CANDIDATES
NEW PLAN WILL DOUBLE EFFORTS TO CLEAR NARRABEEN LAGOON
MONA VALE AMENITY THREAT / ‘FANCY FRY’ RECIPES TO TRY
THE WAY WE WERE / SHIRLEY PHELPS / SEEN... HEARD... ABSURD...

Editorial
Who gets your vote on May 21
Australia heads to the
polls on May 21 to
determine who will govern us
for the next three years.
Locally, a field of seven
candidates will contest
the seat of Mackellar:
sitting member and Liberal
candidate Jason Falinski;
Labor’s Paula Goodman;
Independent Dr Sophie
Scamps; The Greens’ Ethan
Hrnjak; The New Liberals’
Barry Steele; United Australia
Party’s Christopher Ball; and
One Nation’s Darren Dickson.
We approached key
candidates for their election
‘pitch’ to voters; you can read
their messages in our special
election preview (see p30).
(Barry Steele featured in
last month’s magazine; UAP
did not reply to our email
approach and One Nation
announced its candidacy as
this magazine was in final
production stage.)
The 2022 election promises
to be the closest in decades,
with the real prospect of a
hung parliament hovering.
While Mackellar has never
been held by anyone other
than a Liberal candidate,
word on the street suggests
Jason Falinski will face a real
fight from his rivals, who
have a common theme to
their campaigns: climate – its
change and its consequence.
Thats’s not to say Mr
Falinski, a self-confessed
‘modern Liberal’, isn’t
focused on that issue too,
while also pitching the
economy and job creation, as
well as stability and national
security, as priorities.
However, Mr Falinski
must overcome a perception
within a good portion of
our community that his
government has been “asleep
at the wheel” on climate
management.
Only time will tell.
– Nigel Wall
The Local Voice Since 1991
MAY 2022 3

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Publisher: Nigel Wall
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Contributors: Rob Pegley,
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Vol 31 No 10
Celebrating 31 years
8
22
The Local Voice Since 1991
MAY 2022
FREE
pittwaterlife
MEET MACKELLAR CANDIDATES
NEW PLAN WILL DOUBLE EFFORTS TO CLEAR NARRABEEN LAGOON
MONA VALE AMENITY THREAT / ‘ FA N C Y FRY ’ R EC I P E S TO T RY
THE WAY WE WERE / SHIRLEY PHELPS / SEEN... HEARD... ABSURD...
PWL_MAY22_p001.indd 1 25/4/2022 2:54 pm
74
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thislife
INSIDE: A community collaboration hopes to ensure
a healthy future for Careel Bay (p8); Narrabeen Ward
councillors are pushing to revitalise Elanora Heights (p10);
proposed zoning reforms could threaten the amenity
of some Mona Vale residents (p16); Council intends to
undertake major sand removal at the mouth of Narrabeen
Lagoon every two years (p18); hear the Federal Election
pitches from the candidates for Mackellar (p30); and read
Shirley Phelps’ inspirational Life Story (p50).
COVER: Gemma Rasdall / gemmarasdall.com
XXXXX 2022
also this month
Editorial 3
Pittwater Local News 8-29
Seen... Heard... Absurd... 20
The Way We Were 22
Briefs & Community News 24-29
2022 Federal Election: The Candidates 30-38
Surfing 40-41
Hot Poperty 42-49
Life Story: Shirley Phelps 50-53
Art 54-55
Mothers Day Gift Guide 56-57
Health & Wellbeing; Hair & Beauty 58-65
Crossword 73
Food & Tasty Morsels 74-77
the goodlife
Returning soon! Showtime, Pubs & Clubs and gigs!
Inside this month: our regular features on food, gardening,
beauty, health, surfing, art, local history, money, plus our
guide to trades and services... and our essential maps.
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COPYRIGHT
All contents are subject to copyright and may not be reproduced except with the
written consent of the copyright owner. All advertising rates are subject to GST.
* The complete Pittwater
Life archive can be found at
6
the State Library of NSW.
MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

News
Race is on to save Careel Bay
Urgently needed! Volunteers,
young and old,
willing to take part in
one of the largest citizen science
projects ever mounted on
the Northern Beaches.
The commitment? Undergo
training from some of Sydney’s
leading environment scientists,
then follow the precise
protocols for the initial year of
a multi-disciplinary survey into
the health of one of Pittwater’s
most underrated marine
microcosms.
The reward? Providing the
scientific evidence which might
turn the tide on the destruction
of Careel Creek and the
polluted waters it delivers into COLLABORATION: Bill Fulton and Robbi Newman (below) with the donated drone they’ll use to survey Careel Bay;
Careel Bay.
a shot taken by Robbi of the Careel Creek (above); an endangered White’s Seahorse on Posidonia australis.
“Careel Bay is a precious
Operation Posidonia’s website
environment,” explains Bill
(operationposidonia.com) to
Fulton, chief science officer of
marvel at the aquatic species
Living Ocean, the volunteer
which flourish in these flimsy
body driving the project.
submarine forests.
“It’s fed by an ancient creek
Sea horses, blue swimmer
that is now polluted with
crabs and prawns use them as
micro and macro plastics.
underwater kindergartens –
It is bordered by mangrove
allowing them to grow before
forest, salt marsh and shallow
they venture outside their comfort
zone, as Nemo did when
sand beaches. And it’s home
to Posidonia sea grass that is
he left the Great Barrier Reef in
endangered and a vital habitat
the film.
for marine life.”
Simultaneously, sea meadows
help protect the shore
The somewhat clumsily
named Careel Multi-Layered
from erosion while capturing
Coastal Assessment (CMCA)
carbon and improving the
project was officially launched
water quality.
on April 6 at The Studio on volunteer citizen scientists AUSMAP.
Robbi, a fully accredited
Careel Bay Wharf, but had its can choose an area of research Arguably the most fascinating
project, headed by Associ-
genesis with a proposal Living
aerial drone operator, is now
they’re particularly fascinated
Ocean first put to Northern
using his latest photographic
by.
ate Professor Adriana Vérges of
Beaches Council in 2021, hoping
for funding.
tool – an underwater drone
Earthwatch’s Dr Jock Mackenzie,
for example, will lead a Careel Bay’s sea meadows that
UNSW, is the detailed study of
donated by Matt Young and his
“We didn’t receive a reply,”
team at Laing+Simmons Young
team researching the health of will be conducted as part of
says Robbi Newman, Living
Property at Careel Bay Wharf
the mangroves where the creek Operation Posidonia.
Ocean’s co-founder and president.
within the bay’s posidonia
– to depict the marine life left
meets the bay.
Most boat owners who moor
“Little crabs live in the Careel their vessels in Careel Bay don’t
Undeterred, Living Ocean has
meadow.
Bay mangroves,” Bill continues. realise the irreparable harm
partnered with elite scientists
So, for the first time, this citizen
science project will check
“They drill their holes, and their heavy metal mooring
from Macquarie University and
drag the decayed mangrove chains are doing to the sea
the University of NSW, as well
the health of the creek and the
waste down into homes, performing
an essential carbon Yet there’s a simple alterna-
meadows beneath.
as respected environmental
bay from three perspectives
organisations such as AUSMAP,
– the air, the shore and creek
Earthwatch, Tangaroa Blue and
sequestration function. It’s suspected
they’re now dragging the vessels moored but don’t bay.
tive: floating chains which keep banks, and the bottom of the
Operation Posidonia.
Calling itself the ‘Careel Collaborative’,
its aim is to conduct Then there’s PhD candidate Pittwater is one of only six volunteer recruiting forum in
micro plastics down there too.” scar the bottom of the bay. Living Ocean is hosting a
the “first detailed study of the Jordan Gacutan from UNSW’s waterways in NSW (along with Avalon in May (the date was yet
Careel marine environment, Centre for Marine Science and Sydney Harbour) identified by to be finalised as this magazine
the most significant area of Innovation, who will team up Operation Posidonia as sites went to print) – to learn more
estuarine wetlands on the with volunteers checking the where Posidonia is endangered. visit the Living Ocean website
Northern Beaches”.
shoreline around Careel Bay for Why is it worth preserving in or Facebook. Steve Meacham
Each of the scientists has evidence of macro and micro Careel Bay? Surely it’s just an *To volunteer go to livingocean.org.au
or call 0410 374
a special sphere of interest, plastic pollution, following estuarine version of seaweed?
Bill explains – which means the protocols established by You just need to check 333.
8 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991
PHOTO: Donna Johnston
PHOTO: David Harasti

News
Elanora hoping for new Heights
LOBBYING: Councillors De Luca and Crvelin at the Elanora Community Centre.
Elanora Heights’ tired
Community Centre and
precinct is the focus of a
councillors-led push to revitalise
what locals are calling
the “forgotten suburb of the
Northern Beaches”.
With Council sitting on
its hands over the future
residential development
of neighbouring Ingleside
and community groups
including Residents Against
Inappropriate Development
(RAID) opposing the growth
of Ingleside, Elanora Heights
residents want to see an
upgrade to their ‘high street’
strip along Kalang Road.
They add it will be a bigger priority
should Ingleside get any development
green light.
Narrabeen Ward Councillors Bianca
Crvelin and Vincent De Luca have lobbied
Council to prepare a report looking at
potentially revamping the Community
Centre and surrounds, including adding
public toilets.
“Members of the community have
continually written to me requesting that
public toilets and new playground equipment
be installed in Elanora Heights, however,
these requests have been rejected by
Council staff,” said Cr De Luca.
“Since the council’s amalgamation,
the State Government’s announcement
regarding Ingleside and residents’ representations,
it has become apparent there
is an urgent need for both refurbishment
of the current Community Centre and the
availability of other community facilities
and amenities in the Elanora Heights
precinct.”
Councillor Crvelin said she was aware
residents continually complained that
Elanora Heights was the
“forgotten suburb” on the
beaches, always overlooked
for major funding and
amenities.
“This is unacceptable
particularly considering the
increased population now
and with further increases
with any development in
Ingleside,” Cr Crvelin said.
“Federal and State Funding
has been allocated to
Councils in the past to
improve community infrastructure
and thus with
the imminent Federal and
State elections, this is an opportune
time to seek the assistance of our
State and Federal MPs for this purpose.”
Cr De Luca noted the former Squash
Centre has also closed and there were no
sporting or youth facilities in the suburb.
“Also, Elanora Heights currently has no
public toilets and all playgrounds have
old and dilapidated equipment.”
Both Councillors said a report would
give all Councillors a proper understanding
of the needs of Elanora Heights and
the opportunity to obtain funding from
the governments. – Nigel Wall
10 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

Esme aims for ‘eventful’ life
Newport’s Esme Sergi is a breath of fresh air
for our hospitality and tourism industries,
just when they need it most.
The just-turned 18-year-old finished first
in the state in last year’s HSC Tourism, Travel
and Events Examination, studying a Certificate
III in Events at TAFE NSW Northern Beaches
while completing her HSC at Northern Beaches
Secondary College Freshwater Senior Campus.
Now she’s been snapped up by the Boathouse
Group, which is helping her gain experience
in wedding events (at Moby Dick’s at
Whale Beach) and develop the skills she needs
to realise her ambitions.
While at high school Esme took on a range
of volunteer roles and work experience to
understand the concepts involved in working
in the industry.
“Volunteering in years 11 and 12 at Seniors
Week at the ICC and Careers Expo at Miramar
Gardens allowed me to put what I had learnt in
the classroom at TAFE into practice at a reallife
event,” Esme said.
“I also did work experience at my local
junior rugby league club, the Mona Vale Raiders,
in coordinating canteen rosters and some
game-day logistics.
“Then in the HSC exam I felt confident
as I had experienced events first-hand and
understood the logistics, pre, during and after
an event.”
Esme says she was drawn to tourism due
to its “shifting landscape” – especially having
witnessed it struggle and then try to rebound
post-COVID.
“We certainly live in a world that is changing,”
she said. “And tourism provides so many
different destinations and regions that are
available, especially in our own country.”
TAFE NSW Team Leader of Tourism, Travel
and Events, Maryanne Metry said Esme’s statetopping
result in the HSC was testament to her
commitment to excellence in the tourism and
events industries.
“Esme’s exceptional results in the HSC
reflect not just her hard work and dedication,
but also the quality, hands-on training TAFE
NSW provides students to help them reach
their career ambitions and ensure we have a
skilled and capable workforce of the future,”
Ms Metry said.
“I have no doubt Esme will go on to be a
great ambassador for TAFE NSW and enjoy a
successful career in the events industry.”
And where does Esme see herself in 10
years?
“I hope to be working in a high position
for a stadium or sporting organisation in the
running of large sporting events in Australia
– and hopefully be a part of the Brisbane Summer
Olympics 2032!”
– Nigel Wall
News
The Local Voice Since 1991
MAY 2022 11

Players
desperate for
young blood
News
In her early 70s, Kerrie King
is looking for “a young leading
man”.
He doesn’t need to be too
young, she explains, “anything
from 25 to 30… or an older
man who looks younger”.
Why the urgency?
Because the amateur
dramatic society Kerrie has
been president of for the past
decade – Elanora Players – is
missing one vital cast member
in its July production of
Australian playwright Emma
Wood’s Mr Bennet’s Bride.
It’s not exactly a supporting
role.
Kerrie and director Vicki
Castorina are looking for an
actor to play James Bennet
– the long-suffering, sarcastic
father of five unmarried
daughters immortalised in
Jane Austin’s second novel,
Pride and Prejudice, published
in 1813.
Emma’s play is set 25 years
earlier in the 1780s and
explores how the infamously
unsuited Mr and Mrs Bennet
met and married.
It’s a play hard to perform
without someone playing the
young Mr Bennet.
And the stakes couldn’t be
higher.
This will be the first Elanora
Players’ production for more
than two years because of
COVID-19 – and its debut at its
new home, North Narrabeen
Community Centre, after more
than 50 years in Elanora.
Around 150 supporters attended
a champagne reception
introducing them to the new
venue last month (April 9).
“Our audience is very loyal.
They love what we do,” Kerrie
continues.
The first production in 1966
was a wartime British farce,
See How They Run, by Philip
King (no relation).
Since then, the Players have
attempted to fulfil a two-year
cycle: four comedies, one contemporary
classic, one drama,
one ‘whodunnit’ and one production
of three short plays
to give members a chance of
directing.
But COVID-19 intervened,
shutting down the Players as it
did the entire Australian arts
industry.
Worse still.
MOVE: Kerrie King at the relaunch
of Elanora Players at North Narrabeen
Community Centre in April;
and a promotional shot from
their last production, Calendar
Girls, in January 2020 (below).
In the move from Elanora to
North Narrabeen the Players
were forced to “cull” (Kerrie’s
word) half a century’s worth of
props and costumes.
During the COVID crisis, the
Players also lost much of its
acting talent.
“People were sick, had babies,
moved elsewhere,” Kerrie
explains. “We have a particular
problem finding young men.
They either don’t want to be
on stage. Or they want to be
big stars – which is unlikely
to happen with the Elanora
Players.”
Like Mr Bennet’s Bride, the
Players’ second scheduled
production in October – Ken
Ludwig’s Moon Over Buffalo
– also has a question mark
hanging over it.
Set in 1953, the play follows
the fading fortunes of two former
Broadway stars performing
two totally inappropriate
plays for their hick industrial
city audience: Noel Coward’s
comedy of manners Private
Lives and Edmond Rostand’s
fictionalised version of Cyrano
de Bergerac, the swashbuckler
with the famously large nose.
If Moon Over Buffalo is
delayed though, it won’t be a
casting problem.
Director Ashleigh Haynes
is recovering from a major
accident.
“But if we can’t stage Moon
Over Buffalo in October, we’ll
do something else,” Kerrie
promises.
“We have to get people back
to the theatre. We can’t wait
any longer.”
Kerrie herself hasn’t trodden
the boards since she played
“the doctor’s wife” in Coward’s
Blythe Spirit (“I prefer to direct
now”).
Which makes the larger
point. You don’t need to have a
yearning to be an actor to join
the Elanora Players.
They’re also looking for people
to work in stage management,
costumes and make-up,
props, sounds and lights, plus
front-of-house to continue a
half-century heritage.
– Steve Meacham
*More info – Casting: vicki.
castorina@hotmail.com; General:
elanoraplayers.com.au
12 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

E-scooters trial plan
News
Electronic scooters, according
to one local dealer’s
website, are the transport
mode of the future.
“A faster, easier, smarter way
to get around,” it says, adding
“… as battery technology gets
better, we’ll make sure you ride
faster, further, and safer.”
All good – except E-scooters
are illegal on public roads and
footpaths in NSW and most
other states.
Not that it’s illegal to sell
them, as many of Australia’s
mainstream stores do.
Except they don’t point
out that E-scooters are only
legal to ride in NSW on private
property.
In November last year
– when Rob Stokes (state
member for Pittwater) was still
NSW’s minister for Transport
and Roads – he announced
an upcoming E-scooter trial,
hedging his bets between E-
scooters being “an affordable,
convenient and sustainable
mode of mobility, particularly
for the first and last mile journeys”
and a danger that needs
regulating because “safety is
paramount”.
The parameters of the trial
have yet to be finalised. When
they are, the trial is expected
to be introduced in the second
half of 2022, in select Councils
and regions across NSW.
In the interim, E-scooters
have figured frequently in
mainstream media, focussing
mainly on pedestrians being
injured by out-of-control teenagers
too young to learn the
rules of the pavement, let alone
the road.
Where does this leave
parents, who purchased an
E-scooter for their son or
daughter in good faith from a
reputable store?
Nate and Tully – 11 and 9 respectively
– are lawbreakers, by
their own candid admission.
When we meet on a Saturday
morning, Nate has just
returned from an hour-long
adventure with two mates.
One also got an E-scooter for
LEISURELY RIDE:
Nate, 11, on the family’s
shared e-scooter, with
brother Tully, 9, on bike.
Christmas, while the other got
an E-bike.
Their mother – Sharn George
– is understandably cagey
when asked how much the
E-scooter (shared with older
brothers Zac, 15 and Koby, 14)
cost. Or which store it came
from.
“Santa gave it to all four
brothers for Christmas,” she
says. “I didn’t know they were
illegal and I don’t think Santa
knew it was illegal either.”
Nate and Tully use their
communal present much more
than their teenage siblings,
Sharn says. Both boys always
wear helmets (“I don’t have to
ask”), never ride the E-scooter
to school, and mainly confine
their adventures to the quiet
back streets from their Avalon
home to Careel Bay.
(Though Nate boasts his
favourite trip was from Avalon
to Whale Beach at the top
speed of 25km/h. Tully never
goes beyond the middle speed,
19km/h, having convinced his
mum he could graduate from
the 14km/h bottom speed.)
Of course, there are just as
many critics of E-scooters as
supporters.
Chief among them is Harold
Scruby, the Whale Beach-based
founder, president and chief
executive of the Pedestrian
Council of Australia.
He cites multiple TV stories
on the likes of A Current Affair
and Sunrise showing footage
of life-changing accidents for
pedestrians mown down by
PHOTO: Steve Meacham
teenage hoons riding their E-
scooters irresponsibly.
One man, “Rahul”, bought
his E-scooter at JB Hi-Fi for
around $1000, but coped a fine
of almost $2500 in December
last year for riding on a public
road – including $352 for not
wearing a helmet, $704 for
having unpaid tax and no registrations,
and another $704
for having no insurance.
The PCA has submitted its
view about E-scooters. Its main
accusations are that private
E-scooter riders are exempt
from insurance, licence plates,
L-plate-like training, speed controls
and drink-driving laws.
The last statistics available
from the State Government
are that since 2016, 36 crashes
were reported to NSW Police involving
an E-scooter. One rider
was killed. Plus 20 riders and
one pedestrian were injured.
Rob Stokes, now the Minister
for Infrastructure, Cities and
Active Transport, retains carriage
of the trial – if and when
it happens. But Mr Stokes’
comments remain the same as
when he mooted the trial last
year: “We need to clear up the
regulations around E-scooters,
E-bikes and electric skateboards.
“E-scooters are an affordable,
convenient and sustainable
active transport option,
which can easily connect
people with their destinations
and public transport options.”
– Steve Meacham
*Have you had a ‘run-in’ with
an electric bike, scooter or
skateboard? Tell us about it at
readers@pittwaterlife.com.au
14 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

EMOTIONAL:
Kyle and the Black
Cockatoo story.
Kyle pushing boundaries
Mona Vale’s Kyle Shilling says he’s
proud to be part of an all-indigenous
cast telling an important story in a
limited-run production at Glen Street
Theatre in May.
He explains ‘Black Cockatoo’ is the
little-known tale of Australia’s first
overseas sporting tour in 1868 – involving
an aboriginal cricket team who took on
England.
“When I heard about the story, I was
shocked that the first cricket team to ever
tour overseas was aboriginal – it was the
first sporting team to tour anywhere in
the world and I’d never heard about it,”
says Kyle. “But then I wasn’t surprised
that it was swept under the rug or that
it wasn’t taught in schools. I’ve become
used to that.”
If you’ve also never heard the story,
‘Black Cockatoo’ recalls the voyage
to England made by Australia’s first
international cricket team more than
150 years ago. A squad of 13 Aboriginal
men from Western Victoria, including
Captain Johnny Mullagh, picked
up their cricket bats and amazed the
English crowds with their astonishing
talent, personality and grit.
Mullagh, an allrounder who died
in 1891 at the age of 50, was finally
inducted into the hall of fame in 2020.
He played an astonishing 47 matches
on the 1868 tour of England, scoring
1698 runs at an average of around 20, on
often-treacherous pitches. He also took
245 wickets and would even occasionally
keep wicket, achieving four stumpings.
It was the first organised group of
Australian sports people to ever travel
overseas to compete.
Iconic Australian writer Geoffrey
Atherden (Mother and Son) and former
Sydney Festival Artistic Director Wesley
Enoch (Black Diggers) are behind the
production, in which Shilling plays a lead
role as a museum curator.
“I was brought up in Taree until I was
12, and then in Tweed Heads, but I came
to the Northern Beaches 18 months ago to
further my acting career,” explains Kyle.
“I actually studied dance for four years
at NAISDA and then danced with Bangarra
for a year, but injured my back and
have lost my love for dance,” he continues.
“But luckily I found acting and much
prefer that now.”
Having played in ‘Man With The Iron
Neck’ and ‘Sunshine Super Girl’ – the story
of Evonne Goolagong – COVID put the
brakes on touring somewhat, but as Kyle
came out of lockdown he was offered the
role in Black Cockatoo.
Despite the story being very raw and
emotional – and involving a subject that
Kyle identifies strongly with – he tries to
be very objective about the way he approaches
his craft.
“It’s an incredibly sad story,” Kyle
begins. “When they returned from their
historic tour, they found that their families
had been removed, and they were put
onto reserves. After representing their
country they found their families were
gone and they were forced to leave their
homes.”
“It can be emotional telling that story,
but I can’t allow it to affect me,” says Kyle.
“I try to switch off, because I’m telling an
important story that people need to learn
from and have a better understanding.”
It’s a story Kyle understands all too
well.
“Yeah, I grew up in a very racist town.
My father was indigenous, but he was not
around, so me and my twin brother had
to negotiate life there alone,” shares Kyle.
“It was hard because my mum understood
to an extent, but we couldn’t open
up to our parents.”
“Even now, I experience racism. Just
this weekend somebody said something
totally wrong to me,” says Kyle.
“We still understand that our people
are going through this. But people are
wanting to understand and know how
we can progress – hopefully this play
will help.”
And Kyle has huge plans.
“I’ve got a few things lined up that I
can’t talk about yet, but things that will
hopefully kickstart a big screen career,”
says Kyle. “What I’m doing next will lead
me oversees and allow me to represent
my people.”
“I want to go to Hollywood. I want to be
in the next Avengers film and big dramas.
It’s not something you expect of an aboriginal
Australian and I want to prove it’s
just as realistic.”
– Rob Pegley
*Runs May 11-15; glenstreet.com.au
News
The Local Voice Since 1991
MAY 2022 15

News
Heavy industry alarm for Mona Vale
Development of the new
Mona Vale Place Plan has
been thrown a curve ball
with the State Government
proposing changes to Local
Environmental Planning (LEP)
Employment Zones across the
Northern Beaches.
The mooted reforms have
the potential to impact all
beaches residents who live adjacent
to areas currently used
by light industry businesses,
with changes that would enable
heavy industry to take
place as well.
Council is particularly
opposed to the proposal to
combine the B1 Neighbourhood
Centre and B2 Local
Centre business zones and the
IN1 General Industrial and IN2
Light Industrial zones.
Council says the reforms
would reduce its control over
development in smaller local
shopping centres and small
industrial areas – with uses
such as function centres and
entertainment facilities, which
Council believes should be
prohibited outright because
of impacts such as noise and
traffic, permitted with Council
approval in small shopping
centres like Bayview and Bilgola
Plateau.
Another example was smash
repair and machinery businesses
which would be permitted
in smaller industrial areas;
an example in Mona Vale is on
Bassett Street, where currently
only “light industry” is permitted
on the south side of the
road and the other residential
housing. The reforms would
permit “heavy industry” in this
industrial area.
Northern Beaches Mayor
Michael Regan said the reforms
were a recipe for disaster that
could undermine the local
character of communities.
“These changes will reduce
Council’s power in strategically
planning for the future,” Mayor
Regan said. “Council warned
the State Government on
numerous occasions that these
reforms may negatively impact
our local businesses and residents.
But the Department has
ignored key elements of our
submissions and is proceeding
with their reforms, which are
expected to be introduced by
the end of the year.”
Kelvin Auld and Marcia
Rackham from Mona Vale
Residents Association say the
association supports the status
quo and the protection of residential
amenity from incompatible
industrial uses.
Pittwater Ward Councillor
Michael Gencher told Pittwater
Life he hoped the reforms
would not see the light of day.
“It is so important to
residents and Mona Vale that
the protection of the current
residential amenity remains,”
he said.
“At a time when we are currently
working on the Mona
Vale Place Plan, and a singular,
unified set of DCPs and LEPs
for the Northern Beaches – it
is imperative to support the
status quo.”
Council has written to the
State Government and local MP
Rob Stokes State to express its
concerns.
– Nigel Wall
6THINGS
THIS MONTH
Taste of the Beaches. Kick off
the Northern Beaches’ month-long
celebration of food and wine at
the Palm Beach Wine Garden at
Governor Philip Park on Sat April
30 and Sun May 1. Other ‘Taste of
the Beaches’ events include a Food
Truck Party at Winnererremy Bay,
Mona Vale on Sat 21 from 12pm-
8pm and Taste of Manly on Sat 28
& Sun 29 from 11.30am-5.30pm.
Details on Council website.
Sunday food market. Check
out the open-air marketplaces at
Village Park Mona Vale (Sun 1 &
8) and Pittwater RSL (Sun 15, 22
and 29) from 8.30am-1pm; they’re
stocked with certified organic
food, artisan gourmet produce
and conventional fresh fruit and
vegetables, freshly baked bread,
patisserie and much more.
Fermented food webinar.
Learn how to safely ferment fruit
and vegetables with Margaret
from Moss House who will
demonstrate how to set up a
brined vegetable ferment and
seasonal kraut making on Mon 9
from 7pm-8.30pm (free); register
via council website.
Vote. It is compulsory for all
Australians over 18 to vote.
Election day is Saturday 21 and
polling will be open from 8am-
6pm. If you know you won’t be
able to make it to a polling place
on election day, you can vote early.
Pre-poll voting starts on Monday
9, if you want to vote by post, the
last day to register is Wednesday
18. More info at aec.gov.au
Jane Eyre. Witness one of the
most iconic pieces of English
literature retold in a faithful yet
fiercely original production from
the nationally renowned shake &
stir theatre co featuring original
music by multi-ARIA Award
winner Sarah McLeod at Glen
Street Theatre from Wed 25 to Sun
29; book at glenstreet.com.au.
Charity drop-off. Donate quality
pre-loved clothing, accessories,
sleeping bags and blankets at the
Vinnies’ Charity Clothing Drop-off
Day Sat 28 from 9am-3pm at
Rowland Reserve Bayview. Place
items in boxes and/or bags in the
rear of your car and Vinnie’s staff
will collect from your vehicle.
16 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

NUMBERS DOWN: Forest Men’s Shed memberships have dropped 30 per cent since the start of COVID.
Men’s Shed needs new recruits
With an average age of membership approaching
80, the Northern Beaches’ local
Men’s Shed at Belrose is looking for “young
blood” – men from age 55 – to take this creative
and uplifting workshop environment into the
next few decades.
“The Forest Men’s Shed is really about mental
health, and woodwork is just the excuse,” says
President Tim O’Sullivan. “It’s about camaraderie
and the chance to spend time with likeminded
guys.
“It was always conceived as a mental health
initiative, and the most important aspect is
the social, mental, spiritual and psychological
wellbeing of our members.
“I’ve always encouraged men here to talk
about how they are feeling. We ask ‘R U OK?’
every day here. And the older they get, the more
they yak!”
The only problem is that most of the members
are getting older.
Established 14 years ago, some 15 or so of
the original members are still regulars at the
workshop, with one member still turning up at
the ripe old age of 93. While that’s testament to
the Men’s Shed’s community, Tim is very keen
to get some younger members on board to lead
the place into the coming years.
“We have great facilities, plenty of equipment
and money in the bank, but we need new and
younger members to keep the shed viable,”
explains Tim.
“We need a pool of management talent to help
run things. There are formal reporting requirements
and admin to be performed; while the
older guys still love coming here, they don’t
really want to be responsible for running things
anymore.”
Tim admits that the Forest Men’s Shed is such
a good model, that they rarely receive Government
Funding, which tends to be reserved for
the newer and more needy of NSW’s 377 men’s
sheds. Initially set up with the backing of Uniting
Aged Care with free membership, the Men’s
Shed at Belrose now charges members a very
reasonable annual fee of $40 to pay for their
biggest expense, which is insurance costs.
The problem is that very slowly membership
is – literally – dying off, and of the members
The Local Voice Since 1991
who still pay their fees, many have been put off
regular attendance in the past two years due to
COVID.
“We’ve gone from around 90 members pre-
COVID to around 60 this year,” says Tim. “There
used to be 14 or 15 blokes in the shed on any
given day, and now it’s more like six to eight.
“Not only will that start to affect things financially,
but more importantly it’s just more fun
with more people here.
“Many members have their own workshop
– including myself – but it’s lonely to work
at home on your own. I worry about men
becoming isolated – it’s bad enough living in a
COVID world, but some of our members have
lost their spouses and can start to lose social
contact.”
With requirements for members to be double
vaccinated and observe social distancing, the
shed is a safe, but welcoming environment.
And you might be very surprised at how
aware you are already of the work the members
in Belrose have carried out.
“Restoring the tram at The Tramshed in
Narrabeen was probably our biggest project,” reveals
Tim. “We did all the internal and external
timber work on that.
“When Warringah Council bought the tram
it was a derelict carcass, covered in graffiti. It
was taken to a depot in Cromer and 11 or 12 of
us began stripping and restoring every piece of
timber.
“We’ve also made countless community
library shelves – the ones you see on streets;
we’ve made beehives for the Narrabeen Coastal
Environmental Centre; and we’re currently
working on big display frames for Pittwater
Camera Club.”
“Everything we do is free of charge, we just
get people to pay for the materials. The community
is welcome to come and find us.”
It seems a win-win situation: men talking to
other men and maintaining their wellbeing,
shoulder to shoulder, as they create heartwarming
projects for the local community.
– Rob Pegley
*Are you a man in your mid-50s in need of a
creative and uplifting outlet? Head to forestmensshed.org.au/
for more info.
MAY 2022 17
News

OPEN, NOT SHUT CASE:
Narrabeen Lagoon sand clearing.
Council doubles down
on Lagoon entrance
News
Northern Beaches Council proposes to double the frequency
of its proactive, medium-term management of the
Narrabeen Lagoon entrance following initial community
feedback on its Draft Strategy.
Council’s executive summary of its Draft Strategy, detailed
at Council’s April meeting, recommends more regular sand removal
from the mouth of the lagoon as a mitigation measure for
flooding due to weather events.
Currently, the Council’s medium-term focus involves the periodic
removal of accumulated sand in the lagoon entrance and
transport to Collaroy-Narrabeen Beach for beach replenishment.
Lagoon entrance clearance operations have been undertaken
over the past 40 years, and have involved removing on average
30,000-50,000m3 of sand approximately every three to five
years.
The last major clearance occurred in December 2021.
The draft strategy noted 111 submissions from its community
consultation between 10 February 2021 and 28 March 2021.
The strategy recommends clearing the entrance more frequently
but with a reduced volume – noting that a clearance of
15,000m3 every two years had a similar economic cost as a clearance
of 40,000m3 every four years.
The strategy also recommends that mobile sand pumping (as
an alternative to trucking sand) be reviewed if lower cost pricing
became available from a contractor-delivered scheme rather than
Council purchasing pipes and pumps.
The reshaping and revegetation of the Birdwood Park Dune is
also recommended, to reduce the potential for movement of sand
into the Lagoon.
Regarding short-term management focus, the strategy recommends
continuing “the reactive management of the Lagoon
entrance and associated emergency response arrangements and
intelligence, to reduce immediate flood risk within the Lagoon/
surrounding areas, including emergency breakouts of the entrance
as required”.
Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan said Council had been
actively managing the entrance to the lagoon to reduce the risk
of flooding in the catchment, while working on its longer-term
management strategy.
“Fortunately, Council was able to complete the major sand
clearance operation before Christmas ahead of the huge amount
of rain that we’ve had in the first few months of this year,” he
said.
“It has been great to have a range of flood and coastal experts,
as well as the community, contribute to the draft long-term
strategy and fully investigate all the options and their respective
benefits, costs and potential environmental impacts.”
Mayor Regan said public exhibition of the draft Strategy
would commence soon. Submissions will be reviewed and
where appropriate incorporated into a revised final strategy.
The final strategy will then be presented to Council for its
consideration.
“I look forward to hearing more from the community as the
draft is exhibited for comment,” Cr Regan said. – Nigel Wall
18 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

News
SEEN…
Council is warning locals who swim at the ocean pool at the
southern end of Newport Beach of the danger of landslips and
rockfalls following record rainfall since January. The warning
follows a major rock fall from the cliff face in February, above
the informal access path to the pool. Recent landslips have
been observed as well. Both have been attributed to destabilisation
caused by heavy and constant rain. Figures supplied
to Pittwater Life by Newport resident Bill Thomson, who has
kept daily rain records at his Queens Parade property since
2006, show that in March, 472mm of rain fell – the highest
single monthly total in 15 years. Also, the 771mm total for
February-March 2022 was the highest total for this period in
the 15 years, while 843mm for Jan-March 2022 was the highest
January-March total of the period. Council says that at South
Newport, an initial geotechnical assessment following recent
heavy rains has recommended a more detailed risk assessment
of landslip hazards. While both permanent and temporary
warning signage exists, Council is planning to bolster this
with additional signage asap. CEO Ray Brownlee said: “We have
engaged geotechnical engineers to conduct risk assessments
at a number of coastal locations, including South Newport,
following the recent heavy rains. We are hopeful we will be
able to continue to manage the risk without the need to close
South Newport pool, however we will be guided by the detailed
risk assessment and any threat to public safety. We urge the
community to be cautious around the top and base of cliffs
and large trees after heavy rains when the risk of rock or tree
falls is heightened.” Regardless, some people are ignoring the
warnings – as shown by Ian Hannam’s photo taken at the site
on Easter Monday. *Watch concerning aerial footage of the
Newport ocean pool danger taken by Pittwater Pathways –
google ‘you tube Newport Pool’.
HEARD #1…
contact nearby impacted residents ahead of the work. Work
scheduled in the coming months, between Manor Road and
Foley Street, include the continuation of excavation of earthworks;
piling and retaining wall construction; drainage construction;
kerb and barrier placement; removal of power poles
near Foley Street; laying of asphalt; installation of road signage
and line marking; and landscaping. More info 1800 413 640 or
email monavaleroad@georgiou.com.au
HEARD #2…
Council has “read the room” in relation to the proposed closure
and sale of a section of road reserve at Avalon Beach, between
properties 32 and 34-36 Watkins Road, and canned the move.
An overwhelming 79 per cent of submissions received by
Council during the proposal’s public exhibition period opposed
the plan. As we reported last month, State MP Rob Stokes
was the loudest voice calling for the closure and sale plan to
be scrapped, noting it would be the Government that would be
held accountable should Council have given it the green light.
Council told us: “During the public notification period, Council
received a significant number of objections to the proposed
closure and subsequent sale of land. The underlying theme for
most of the objections was regarding the loss of public land
and how this proposal does not benefit the public. Due to the
large number of objections (79%), Council officers do not believe
the case for progressing the road closure has been made
and recommend that Council refuse this application.” The
applicants (owners of 32 Watkins Road) had submitted a Road
Reserve Closure Application with the intention of purchasing
and consolidating the land with their adjoining property
to potentially construct a second dwelling at the back of the
property and subdivide the land.
ABSURD...
Living Ocean, who elsewhere in this magazine detail their plan
to collaborate to help protect the aquatic life and environment
of Careel Bay (page 8) sent us this shocking image of a murder
of plastic (our collective noun; we think it may catch on) collected
from their survey of the south end of Whale Beach in
mid-April. It’s a reminder of how important it is to limit our
plastic use and dispose or recycle it appropriately.
Work in May on the State Government’s $140 million upgrade
of Mona Vale Road will see some traffic changes between Foley
Street and Ponderosa Parade that will affect motorists. This
is so the construction of the east-bound lanes, east of Samuel
Street, can continue. A traffic switch will involve moving traffic
onto the new road pavement west of Foley Street and Ponderosa
Parade. The roundabout will be moved closer to Ponderosa
Parade. Access to Emma Street and Foley Street will be closed
before and during the traffic switch. Transport for NSW will
20 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

The Way We Were
Every month we continue to pore over three decades of Pittwater Life, providing a
snapshot of the area’s recent history – and confirming that quite often the more things
change, the more things stay the same! Compiled by Lisa Offord
25 Years Ago…
The Way We Were
Posing the question ‘Is Pittwater any better off
five years after secession?’ and noting “There
is a strong body of opinion that says yes, but it
is hard to get them to quantify this” the mag
reviewed Pittwater Council’s performance
“over those turbulent years.” Of note: “The fact
is we still have roads in dire need of repair, have
no civic centre and just about all of the public
works are funded from Government grants…”
The story claimed “… the community is very
much divided with one lobby seeking to reunite
with Warringah and even hoping for a mega
merger of Manly Warringah and Pittwater”. In
news, Council considered plans to Heritagelist
properties at Palm Beach, including “the
Surf Club, the Cabbage Tree and Pacific Clubs,
the Packer house, Willeroon owned by the
Forsyth family, Sam Chisholm’s property and
Karlua, owned by Ian Joye”. In Avalon, rear-tothe-curb
parking was suggested to “reduce the
number of incidents caused by people reversing
out into oncoming traffic”. The ‘bends’ were
getting some long-overdue attention: “At last,
15 Years Ago…
the RTA has begun clearing the weeds…
opening up views of Bilgola Beach that
have not been seen for years.” In Newport,
Robertson Road was to be designated
‘one way’ as part of “Council’s new plans
for the future of the Newport Commercial
Centre”. Any new developments “… will
have to be in accordance with the master
plan… with a preference for buildings not
more than two storeys.” A new feature
debuted – How Much for the House Next
Door? Here’s a taste… LJ Hooker sold
a deep waterfront at 18 Cabarita Rd
Stokes Point for $1million; a “large
old home” in 36 Bellevue Ave Avalon
for $560,000, a record for that street;
a property at 5 Carefree Road North
Narrabeen went for $520,000; and
four-bedroom homes were popular –
in Mona Vale, 10 Peita Crescent sold
for $385,000; 14 Palm Rd Newport
fetched $515,000 and 5 Bilkurra Ave
Bilgola Plateau sold for $420,000.
5 Years Ago…
A report on Pittwater’s finances read: “The NSW Government is We proclaimed:
ripping more than $100m a year out of Pittwater but has offered “How time flies! The
only a lousy $893,135 in grant money for urban infrastructure interim Northern
and natural resources for the coming year.” Income for the year Beaches Council marks
was budgeted at $58.7m and expenditure $57.1m. Council
12 months of
allocated $10.3m for capital and major works, with most
operation this month –
going towards Newport’s community centre and main street but it won’t get to
redevelopment estimated to cost $5.5m over two years. “To
celebrate another
fund this, Council is borrowing a total of $2m… then Council is birthday given we are
borrowing $3.5m to buy into a new company to run Kimbriki
all headed to the polls
Tip…” Borrowings of up to elect a new Council
to $10m for work at the in September.”
Lakeside Caravan Park Meanwhile
over five-years were
passionate locals
foreshadowed. Legal
were continuing
fees of $1,045,000 were to “… fight against
allocated “… but indications forced council
from the current year
amalgamation and
suggest this will almost restore Pittwater
certainly blow out unless Council”. Groups
the Council decides to fight were “anxious about
fewer cases in the Land overdevelopment, the B-Line and the future of Mona Vale
and Environment Court.” Hospital” and plans were afoot to establish a crowdfunding
In news, Boondah Reserve page to obtain the services of a solicitor and take action to
was selected as the site for have Pittwater Council restored. In other news, more than
a $6m Olympic swimming 420 submissions were received after public exhibition of
pool “… which could be draft plans for “the new environmentally sustainable suburb
opened in the second half in Ingleside” which featured 3,400 new homes, a town centre
of next year”; and work and new school; Todd McKenney was performing at Dee
began on “… the rundown Why RSL celebrating 20 years singing the songs of Peter
Police Station at Mona Allen; and we featured the life of local author Amanda
Vale”.
Hampson.
22 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

News
Pittwater News
Breakers make
a run in 2022
After the very disappointing
2021 season, with games
cancelled because of
COVID-19, the Newport
Breakers are looking forward
to a full batch of games in
2022.
This season the Breakers
will be playing in a Subbies
experiment competition
involving a combination of
sides in Second and Third
Division – 12 teams in all. The
Breakers will be fielding four
senior teams and colts, as well
as the Breakettes – the club’s
ladies team.
The men’s teams have seven
home games at Porter Reserve
in Burke Street Newport:
April 30 vs Lindfield; May
14 vs Blacktown; June 18 vs
Barker Old Boys; July 2 vs Old
Ignations; July 23 vs Beecroft;
July 30 vs Briars; and August
20 vs Hawkesbury Valley.
The Breakers have been
playing rugby at Porter
Reserve since 1969 and next
year will mark the 50th
anniversary of their first
premiership in 1973. The club
is looking to emulate their
very successful 2020 season
when they won three from
four premierships and were
named Club of the Year from
all Subbies divisions (President
Jake Osbourne and Vice
President Alan Jones pictured).
Already this year the club
has been runner-up in the
Hamilton 7s tournament
and was the winner of the
Warringah 7s for Subbies
teams.
Past members who have not
done so yet are encouraged to
rejoin the ‘Broken Breakers’;
new members are also sought.
This is a group of former
players and other supporters
who provide financial and
other assistance to the club
as well as perceptive and
fun sideline commentary/
entertainment.
More info newportrugby.com.
au
Woolworths opens
new Avalon pop-up
Woolworths have advised its
Avalon store will close for
renovation on May 2 before
re-opening in late July as
a new ‘Metro’ supermarket
with broader food and goods
offerings. In the meantime
Woolworths have opened a
temporary pop-up shop in
Avalon at Shop 1, 24 Avalon
Parade. Avalon customers
are encouraged to shop
online for home delivery at
Woolworths.com.au; their
supermarket at Mona Vale
(25-29 Park St) will trade as
usual during the period. More
info on the new store visit
woolworthsmetroavalon.com
2022 Readers Festival
Following two years of COVID
cancellations, the inaugural
Northern Beaches Readers
Festival (NBRF) will take place
later this year from 23-25
September at the Avalon
Recreation Centre. Organiser
Sandie Docker said: “We’re
putting together an incredible
line-up of literary talent for a
fabulous weekend of author
talks, book signing and ‘inconversation’
events. We’re
also hoping to discover a
fresh crop of writing talent
thanks to our new initiative
this year – the NBRF Short
Story Competition. Our theme
is ‘Fire and Water’, inspired
by the colours of our logo
and the wonderful contrasts
of the northern beaches
environment.” Entries for the
short story competition close
June 30; the winning entry
Continued on page 26
24 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

Vale Tom Kirsop
Pittwater is mourning the passing of environmentalist, coastal
conservation campaigner and Surfrider Foundation Australia
founder Tom Kirsop on Easter Sunday, aged 92.
Tom took up surfing in his
late 40s and surfed well into his
80s – he was a past President of
the North Narrabeen Boardriders
Club, assuming the role at age 65.
Tom established the Surfrider
Foundation in Australia,
following a chance meeting
with folk associated with its US
operation while surfing in Fiji in
1991. He set up three branches
in Sydney – Southern Beaches,
Eastern Beaches and Northern
Beaches, serving as Chair of the
latter.
In the 1990s he campaigned
against the Narrabeen/Collaroy
seawall and collaborated on the
2002 ‘Line In The Sand’ protest
that saw the former Warringah
Council abandon the proposal.
Surfrider Gardens on Narrabeen’s Ocean Street was dedicated
to Tom and his wife Margaret on December 17, 2019 – on Tom’s
90th birthday.
*Tom Kirsop’s inspirational Life Story appeared in our February
2020 magazine – read more at pittwaterlife.com.au/digital
News
The Local Voice Since 1991
MAY 2022 25

News
Pittwater News
Continued from page 25
will receive $500. Info at nbrf.
com.au
Newport concert
for flood victims
Newport Bowling Club
is hosting a charity concert
on Sunday May 8 with all
ticket receipts going to the
Vinnies NSW Flood Appeal.
Seven-piece Northern Beaches
band Second Time Round will
perform rock ’n’ roll classics
Glorious weather post-Easter brought
more than the sun out as locals and visitors
were spotted combing the streets and
shores of Avalon Beach and its surrounds,
following the Framing Avalon Beach (FAB)
community trail.
It’s a flagship event of Avalon Beach’s
centenary celebrations and will be on show
for the next couple of months, showcasing 16
sites around Avalon that form a trail to follow,
featuring the ‘then’ and ‘now’ of the area.
Trailers can look through the red frames
dotted around at a current vista and
from the 1950s to the 2000s
plus a sprinkling of original
songs; runs 4pm-7pm. Tickets
($20) are available at the
Club bar or trybooking.com/
BYSAZ. The Club and Second
Time Round are donating
their space, time and
talent. Members of Second
Time Round are seasoned
performers who also play in
the much larger Third Age
Rock Orchestra. More info
0403 752 750.
Bonython surf movie
If you want to go
immerse yourself in some
uncomplicated, well-shot
surf vision, get to the Hayden
Orpheum at Cremorne
on May 17 and see the
latest incarnation of Tim
and Sandrine Bonython’s
Australian Surf Movie Festival.
Tim’s been shooting the best
surf he can find for over 40
years and showing it like
this, in cinemas, or pubs, or
Locals see red – but it’s FAB!
compare it to the historic photo displayed.
Project manager Jayne Denshire has been
delighted with the comments and feedback
from the community.
“Everyone says it’s fantastic and many
people have commented they hope it might
become a permanent fixture,” said Jayne.
You can pick up a trail map at any
of the participating shops around
Avalon village, including Woolworths
as well as at the Avalon Recreation
Centre and Avalon Cinema, or online at
avalonbeachculturecollectiveinc.com
wherever he can, for at least
that long. This one features
‘The Big Wave Project 2’, which
is pretty much exactly what it
sounds like: lots of big scary
waves. – Nick Carroll
Leptospirosis alert
Northside Emergency Vets
(NEVS) are warning dog
owners about the detection of
cases of the fatal leptospirosis
bacterial disease, with at
least one dog death recorded.
26 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

Leptospirosis comes from rat
urine and can be transmitted
to humans and dogs via
contaminated water and mud.
Humans can also become
sick from infected dogs. The
deceased dog lived in Ingleside
and it is presumed that it
contracted the disease locally.
NEVS recommends avoiding
walking dogs near stagnant
water, mud and waterways
where rodents may congregate.
Clinical signs of leptospirosis
may include lethargy;
vomiting; blood in urine
and jaundice; they strongly
recommend vaccination
against leptospirosis and
advise dog owners to discuss
with their regular vets.
Probus Club news
The next meeting of the
Palm Beach and Peninsula
Probus Club commences at
9.30am on Wednesday 18
May when guest speaker Ross
Clements will discuss the
invaluable invention ‘John
Harrison’s Chronometer’ –
a precision timepiece carried
on a ship and employed in
the determination of the
ship›s position by celestial
navigation. Ross was a
technical teacher within
Telstra’s colleges involved
in teaching a wide range of
subjects. Meeting at Club
Palm Beach; visitors welcome.
Enquiries 0414 978 465. The
next meeting of Pittwater
Men’s Probus will be at
Pittwater RSL on Tuesday May
10, commencing 10.30am.
Brian Kennedy, author of a
number of books on Sydney,
will talk about all the different
types of tunnels that carry
water and traffic around
Sydney. Visitors welcome;
more info 0412 220 820. The
Avalon Beach Ladies Probus
Club recently celebrated 30
years, with inaugural member
Fay Campbell cutting their
birthday cake. They meet from
10am on the first Tuesday
of each month at Club Palm
Beach (next meeting May
Continued on page 29
News
The Local Voice Since 1991
MAY 2022 27

News
Vet
on call
with Dr Brown
Is your cat hiding something
from you? Dental disease can
often be hidden from sight, with
unhealthy teeth contributing to
pain and other diseases, and
cats can be adept at hiding any
discomfort. If we haven’t seen
your cat for a while, Sydney
Animal Hospitals has the
purr-fect opportunity during
May and June with free dental
checks by our veterinary nurses,
to have your cat’s dental health
assessed, along with reducedprice
dental procedures.
Cats can’t brush their teeth,
but just like people, they are
at risk of developing dental
problems because bacteria
and plaque accumulate on
their teeth contributing to
gum disease or gingivitis,
which can be painful and also
lead to bacteria entering the
bloodstream and circulating to
affect other body organs.
Some tell-tale signs that
your cat may require a dental
treatment include if they have
bad breath or if they have
yellow or brown tartar deposits
on their teeth – as normal
healthy teeth should always
be white. If there is a red line
along the gum margins around
the teeth, this usually indicates
gingivitis – or inflammation and
infection of the gums.
Our veterinary team
will discuss with you the
appropriate treatment options
available to manage your cat’s
dental health. This may include
a scale and polish procedure.
Special dental foods are also
available to help reduce the risk
of dental disease in cats.
Recognising when your
cat’s teeth require veterinary
attention, seeking advice
from our veterinary team and
implementing the appropriate
treatment will ensure that your
cat remains happy and healthy
into their older years.
Cats are the focus during
May and June at SAH with the
opportunity for your cat to have
a free dental check – bookings
essential (also reduced-price
dental procedures).
Contact our team at Avalon
(9918 0833) or Newport (9997
4609).
28 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

Pittwater News
Continued from page 27
3, with guest speaker from
Lifeline organisation), followed
by lunch. Visitors welcome;
more info 0415 292 566.
smorgasbord of international
food on offer complemented
by music and kids’ activities.
More info and tickets on
Council’s website.
Narrabeen
Lagoon forum
The next Friends of Narrabeen
Lagoon Catchment forum will
be held from 7pm on Monday
May 30. Guest speaker
Professor Dennis Foley will
talk about the significant
Aboriginal Heritage of the
lagoon catchment. Prof Foley
was born and grew up on
the Northern Beaches; his
grandmother was a karadji
woman who was responsible
for caring for North Head
and he was given Aboriginal
training by his uncles. The
meeting will be held via
Zoom. Bookings essential; go
to narrabeenlagoon.org.au.
Food for celebration
Council’s ‘Taste of the
Beaches’ events ramp up this
month, with the Palm Beach
Wine Garden to be held in
Governor Phillip Park on
Saturday 30 April and Sunday
1 May. The exclusive cellar
door event will showcase a
range of wineries alongside
local food providers and
live entertainment. Unlike
last year, where there were
two sessions each day, this
year you’ll be able to sit
back, relax and soak up the
surrounds with your entry
valid for the whole event (no
pass-outs). Also, the popular
‘Food Truck Party’ is back
at Winnererremy Bay in
Mona Vale on Saturday 21
May, where there will be a
Stratford-Upon-
Avalon?
Pittwater local Paul
Kinninmonth and his troupe
of 14 players will bring an
incisive modern flavour, and
humour, to the poetry of
William Shakespeare with
performances of ‘Much Ado
About Nothing’ at the Avalon
Sailing Club on the weekend of
Saturday April 30 and Sunday
May 1. It’s being billed as: “Just
like Shakespeare – but with
mobile phones, Siri, a guitarist/
vocalist… and a bicycle.”
Bookings via trybooking.com
Stewart House
marks 90 years
Stewart House will celebrate
its 90th birthday this year
with a fundraising dinner at
Balmoral Bathers’ Pavilion
on Tuesday 7th June. For 90
years Stewart House has been
a home away from home for
some 150,000 children from
NSW and ACT Public Schools.
‘Stewart House Preventorium’
opened in 1931 with funds
donated by Sir Frederick and
Lady Stewart. Every year up to
1,600 children from across the
state come to Stewart House
for a 12-day, away-from-home
experience. All children attend
Stewart House free of charge;
the organisation relies on
donations to keep its doors
open. More info or to book for
the dinner go to stewarthouse.
org.au or call 9938 3100.
Showtime again for Barry
Former ABC Radio and TV presenter Barry Eaton has rebirthed
‘Showtime’ – the popular show he produced and
presented in the Sydney ABC radio studios – as a new podcast.
“In the middle of all the chaos and doom and gloom of the
past year I decided to revitalise the show, as there’s nothing
like it on radio these days,” said Avalon resident Barry.
“The theatres and cinemas are coming back to life and lots of
people will enjoy this kind of entertainment.”
Barry explained the new Showtime features much-loved
show tunes from original cast recordings from Broadway, the
West End and Australian stage productions.
These include shows currently playing internationally as well
as here in Australia, while film lovers are also catered for with
soundtracks from Hollywood and other international films.
“I’ve been collecting vinyl and CD cast recordings and
soundtracks for a very long time now – my parents took me to
‘Annie Get Your Gun’ starring Evie Hayes when I was about 10
years old, and I was hooked,” he said.
“I have a collection of film soundtracks that go from the
1930s, with stars as diverse as Fred Astaire, Ethel Merman and
Humphrey Bogart, musicals such as ‘Cabaret’, ‘Fiddler on the
Roof’, ‘High Society’ right through to ‘A Star is Born’ and all the
James Bond movie themes.”
Barry delights in researching and talking about the many
shows he includes each week and is planning to include
interviews soon.
Showtime is commercial-free and features music, news
and updates of stage and film productions playing in major
Australian cities; it premiered online at barryeatonshowtime.
com in early February and is now also available on Spotify,
Apple, Google, iHeart and more.
– Nigel Wall
*More info RadioOutThere@gmail.com
News
The Local Voice Since 1991
MAY 2022 29

2022 Federal Election Preview
Mackellar Decides
The electorate of Mackellar was created
in 1949 – it covers the entire
former Pittwater Council area and a
majority of the former Warringah Council
area.
It has always been won by the Liberal
Party – and by substantial margins.
The seat was first won in 1949 by William
Wentworth who held the seat until
his retirement in 1977.
Wentworth was succeeded by Liberal
candidate Jim Carlton, who retired from
Parliament in 1994.
The ensuing by-election was won by
Bronwyn Bishop, who was re-elected to
seven full terms from 1996 to 2013.
Ms Bishop lost Liberal preselection to Jason
Falinski in 2016; Mr Falinski won Mackellar
in 2016 and was re-elected in 2019.
At the last election in 2019, Mr Falinski
attracted 53 per cent of votes, followed by
Labor’s Declan Steele with 16.9 per cent.
Independent Alice Thompson attracted
12.2 per cent.
The two-party preferred result was Liberal
63.2 per cent to Labor 36.8 per cent.
Here are profiles of the six candidates
contesting the 2022 election; more from
the key candidates in following pages.
– Compiled by Nigel Wall
News
Paula Goodman – Labor
Ms Goodman has had a diverse career in the
entertainment industry, working in TV on
some of Australia’s favourite shows from ‘Mission
Impossible’, to ‘Blankety Blanks’ (with
Daryl Sommers), and with the brilliant Roy &
HG. She lives in Avalon Beach where she dedicates
her efforts to areas of the community
she is passionate about. As a rescue volunteer
for Native Wildlife, she is concerned about the
damage that is being done with the encroachment of our traffic
and pollution on our wildlife areas. She’s also honoured to work
with the Woman’s Resilience Centre on our Northern Beaches, assisting
with the development and rollout of a holistic approach to
domestic and family violence recovery with counselling services,
education options, good health, and wellbeing.
Dr Sophie Scamps – Independent
Dr Sophie Scamps has served the Northern
Beaches for more than two decades as
a former emergency department doctor at
Mona Vale Hospital and as a GP in Narrabeen.
Before becoming a doctor, Dr Scamps attained
degrees at Oxford University and Sydney University
and was an Australian athletics record
holder. She won gold in the 800 metres at the
World Junior Championships and qualified
for the 1992 Olympics. Dr Scamps remains involved with Little
Athletics. She decided to enter politics and run in Mackellar as
a “community-backed Independent” after growing frustrated at
the Liberal Coalition Government and Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s
lack of action on climate change. Dr Scamps lives with her
husband and three teenage children in Avalon Beach.
Jason Falinski – Liberal
The son of a migrant, a Nipper dad, an economist,
small business owner and a modern
Liberal, sitting member Mr Falinski says he
has seen how the future belongs to those who
fight for it. He remains grateful to Australia
and to the local community for the opportunities
he has had. During his two terms to date
Mr Falinski has brought down seven inquiries,
including ones on housing affordability,
employee share schemes, corporate bond markets, ATO disputes
and is proud to “have held APRA, ASIC, RBA to account”. He is
proud to have played a driving role in the Government ending
offshore drilling and investing “tens of millions of dollars in
funding for schools, roads, surf clubs, businesses and sports
grounds across the Northern Beaches”.
Ethan Hrnjak – The Greens
Mr Hrnjak, 18, says he is running because as
a student living through the climate crisis, he
believes young people deserve a seat on the
benches of Parliament. Having lived in Mackellar
his whole life, he says he has not been
afraid to get his hands dirty to fight for our
community – including lobbying Northern
Beaches Council for a new community garden,
or protesting offshore gas projects. Mr Hrnjak
has represented as a Youth Advisory Representative on Council’s
Youth Advisory Group for the past year, where he has advocated
for the wellbeing of young people across Mackellar. If elected, he
proposes to create a similar committee that would discuss policy
and take input to Canberra. He is also an organiser and marshal
for the School Strike for Climate movement.
Christopher Ball –
United Australia Party
Mr Ball’s profile on the United Australia Party
website says he has been a Narrabeen resident
since 2016. Mr Ball says he has voted Liberal
all his voting life, until now. He says the
“tyranny we are witnessing” is unacceptable,
unconstitutional, and even frightening – so he
has decided it is time do something. He says
the Australia he knew is now “divided and
broken”. He wants to see strong leadership that unites Australians
with real workable choices. From the early ’80s to the late
’90s he was involved in full-time Christian ministry.
*Pittwater Life contacted the UAP about obtaining additional information
for editorial on Mr Ball but no response was received.
Barry Steele – The New Liberals
Mr Steel, 66, was born in Queensland and
started after-school work at 15 before becoming
the first member of his family to study at
university. He holds degrees in Zoology and
Computer Science.
He has worked on scientific projects in
Canberra for the CSIRO, in Wollongong for
BHP IT, plus other IT executive positions. Mr
Steele says TNLs’ ballot preferences will put
the Liberal Party last, and the Labor Party second last. “Our early
polling showed up to 30 per cent of Liberal voters were disgusted
with the gender issues, the pork barrelling, and the lies,” he said.
*More info – see our profile story in last month’s (April) issue @
pittwaterlife.com.au/digital
30 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

LIBERAL – Jason Falinski
News
Election a choice of a more certain future
Mackellar MP Jason Falinski says it is
important to note that over the past
three years, during Australia’s greatest
test since World War II, communities
came together rather than fell apart.
“This sense of community points to
an even brighter future for all of us,” he
said. “We followed a plan, we helped each
other to reach milestones and as a result
Australia has come out of COVID-19 leading
the world, with the highest vaccination
rates, the lowest death rates, one of
the highest economic growth rates and
the lowest unemployment rate in over 40
years.
“Our nation and its people have shown
resilience and strength. It is delivering
a strong economy and an even stronger
future.
“As your voice In Canberra, I have
prosecuted our vision for a fair and more
prosperous Australia. That is why in this
term of government I’ve brought down
reports on creating a taxpayer advocate;
establishing a retail corporate bond
market; reducing regulations and taxes
on employee share schemes; reforming
bankruptcy laws; competition law
and housing affordability as chair of
two major committees. The bipartisan
Economics Committee that I chair has
held APRA, ASIC, the big four banks, Big
Super and the RBA to account.”
In Mackellar, Mr Falinski said he had
“never lost sight of building a more
inclusive and compassionate community,
full of opportunity for everyone to live
the best lives of their choosing”.
“The local campaign to upgrade Wakehurst
Parkway worked with nearly $150
million committed to widen key sections,
plus millions more to fix blackspots
RESILIENCE AND STRENGTH: Jason Falinski.
and school zones across the Northern
Beaches,” he said.
“I have made sure our precious coastline
is protected and preserved for this
generation and the next by fighting to
end Labor’s PEP-11 licence. Our ‘Net Zero’
future is happening in Mackellar, with
8,870 rooftop solar panels across the
electorate.
“We have secured millions to upgrade
local surf clubs, sports grounds and support
businesses. And there is so much
more to do.
“There is a lot at stake this election.
The next government must provide
certainty in uncertain times. Our record
shows we are in a strong position to
manage these challenges and create opportunities.
“We have rolled out a plan that will
create 1.3 million jobs in the next five
years. We are investing in jobs of the future
through a new digital economy. Our
‘Net Zero’ plan will grow our economy,
create new jobs, secure our energy supplies,
and not put pressure on energy
prices.
“And we have made record investments
into defence.
“When it comes to challenges, we have
said what we meant, and meant what we
have said. We commit to do things, we
do them, and do not hide behind nebulous
conditions, slogans and clichés.”
Mr Falinski said Australians deserved
a future and a clear plan to get there.
“They need to know who the candidates
will support into government,”
he said. “If they have plans, visions
and policies, not just a handful of the
slogans.
“On the Northern Beaches we have
candidates trying to sneak into Parliament
without being honest with you,
who they want to represent. Using dark
money donations from shadowy front
groups because they think your vote,
your parliament, is for sale like some
corporate takeover.
“The choices before us are clear: to
continue our journey towards a more
perfect nation, where all can share in our
fortune, where we stand as a beacon of
hope and freedom in an uncertain world.
“Where we reaffirm our belief that the
wealth of our country is not judged by
the treasures we possess but by the gifts
that we share. A nation worth fighting
for, a nation worth so much more than
the sum of its parts.”
*For more info on Mr Falinski and the
Liberals’ policies visit jasonfalinski.
com.au
32 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

LABOR – Paula Goodman
News
‘Let’s right the wrongs of Scott Morrison’
Labor’s pitch to voters focuses on affordable
childcare; an overhaul of the
Aged Care system to benefit carers and
the elderly; climate change; and small
businesses.
“I support a better deal for young families
with Labor taking action on making
childcare affordable,” said candidate
Paula Goodman. “I know so many young
families here who have nothing left in
their pockets, even with both working.
The cost of living is so problematic and
getting a break on childcare costs will
ease that financial burden.”
Ms Goodman’s stance on Aged Care
is in keeping with Labor’s intention to
“right the wrongs of Scott Morrison who
has avoided taking any responsibility for
the failures in this most neglected area”.
“These people deserve our full respect
and care. Nurses need a decent pay rate,
and it has been too long coming,” she
said.
“Abuse plus neglect and untrained
staff are just a few of the problems.
Nurses are demonstrating in our streets,
trying to gain attention for their plight,
they are underpaid and under-supported.
“It’s time for a huge overhaul. I have
worked in aged care in Mackellar – and I
know from experience what needs to be
done. I will fully support urgent changes
by taking action now.”
She said climate change had been ignored
by the Morrison Government – and
even denied.
“Labor will address it now before it’s
too late. Our beautiful country should be
on the top of the list of countries taking
action, not last.
“Labor’s ‘Powering Australia’ plan will
OVERHAUL NEEDED: Paula Goodman.
help to lower our emissions while also
lowering power bills and creating jobs.
As part of this plan, I have announced
the installation of a community battery.
This was implemented on behalf of Chris
Bowen, the Shadow Minister for Climate
Change and Energy, for the people of
Mackellar and the suburb of Warriewood.
“The community will have their power
prices reduced and will be supporting
the lowering of the effects of climate
change – this is just one step of many to
come from a Labor Government.”
Ms Goodman said she had been speaking
with local business owners and
learned of their suffering.
“I would make sure they have a voice
PHOTO: Northern Beaches Advocate
and are not just swept under the carpet.
The economy is important and small
business needs to be cared for. An Albanese
Labor Government will do just that,
by reducing small business transaction
costs at the point of payment, with a
clear timeline for implementing leastcost
routing, or similar.”
Ms Goodman said her inspiration to
become politically involved came from
observing her father’s selfless work
within the community.
“He always showed compassion and
helped whenever he could. He was a
‘Goodman’ in the true sense of the
word,” she said. “After a hectic working
life in Television, I knew I wanted
to dedicate myself to Labor values and
serving my community, as he did.
“Also, I am proud to be an influencer
with the Woman’s Resilience Centre.
Homelessness and Domestic Violence occurs
throughout our country and it does
not have a particular postcode. It’s also
the cause of many disorders, including
depression.”
A WIRES rescuer for 10 years, she says
she sees how degraded the area of Mackellar
has become.
“I would make sure that we take action
to secure the environment for all in this
area. We used to have Koalas here. So
many species are endangered. I know the
people of Mackellar would work together
with the right support to ensure our
wildlife and environmental future.
“I did not come from ‘politician
school’; I have lived a real life and have
overcome many hardships. I live on a
pension, and I follow my heart.”
*For more info on Ms Goodman and
Labor’s policies visit labor.org.au
34 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

INDEPENDENT – Dr Sophie Scamps
News
Our most important election in decades
Independent candidate for Mackellar
Dr Sophie Scamps says the ongoing
impacts of climate change, the spectre of
over-development, plus Mackellar residents’
opinions being taken for granted
in Canberra, make the 2022 Federal election
the most important in decades.
“We live in one of the most beautiful
parts of Australia. We have the best
beaches in the world, amazing bushland
and national parks, a thriving local
economy and we are a tight-knit community
that looks after each other,” Dr
Scamps said.
“However our precious way of life is
under threat. We have already experienced
the impacts of climate change
in our community – coastal erosion at
our beaches continues while the recent
record-breaking rain led to flash flooding
that damaged property, our roads
and cost small businesses dearly.
“As a GP in Narrabeen I remember
seeing patients, including many children
and older residents, suffering from respiratory
illnesses, and breathing problems
caused by the smoke from the Black
Summer bushfires in 2019 and 2020.”
Dr Scamps says over-development also
threatens our local environment and way
of life in Mackellar.
“If the current Member for Mackellar
gets his way, we could see more high
rises and land clearing here on the
Beaches, as he continues his advocacy for
looser planning laws.”
She said anyone who has tried to
access public outpatient services at
Northern Beaches Hospital, or get mental
health support, also knows our local
health system is struggling.
“As an emergency room doctor and
ANSWER TO COMMUNITY: Dr Sophie Scamps.
local GP, I’ve cared for our community
for 20 years and now I want to step up
and help care for our community as
your Independent MP for Mackellar,” Dr
Scamps said.
“People in Mackellar tell me they are
tired of their vote and voice being taken
for granted by Scott Morrison’s Liberal
Party and its local representative. We
need someone in Parliament who will
stand up for our community above all
else.
“At the moment we have a local member
who is told how to vote in Parliament
by Scott Morrison and Barnaby Joyce.”
She says that as an Independent, she
will be answerable only to the community.
“I will work tirelessly to ensure the
views of people in Mackellar are heard
and respected in Canberra and that decisions
are made in the best interests of all
Australians.
“As the member for Mackellar I will
support strong climate action that protects
our health and our way of life while
electrifying our economy and reducing
our energy bills.
“I support a minimum 50% reduction
in climate pollution by 2030, in line with
the Business Council of Australia, while
Scott Morrison’s Liberal Party is sticking
to Tony Abbott’s 2030 climate targets.
“I will also protect our way of life on
the Beaches by opposing poorly planned
over-development and I will back our
amazing local business community by
supporting lower taxes for small and
medium businesses.”
Dr Scamps says she will fight to
improve health outcomes and ensure
Mackellar gets its fair share of funding
to improve access to mental health
services and public outpatient services
on the Northern Beaches.
“I will work hard to bring a sense of
integrity back into politics, starting with
the long-promised and long-overdue
federal anti-corruption commission,” she
said. “This is something Scott Morrison’s
Liberal Party promised back in 2019 but
has failed to deliver.
“The current Member for Mackellar
has also said he is against it – it is now
clear the only way to bring integrity back
into politics is by voting independent on
election day.
“This election is the most important in
decades for the people of Mackellar and
we deserve to have a genuine voice representing
our community in Parliament.
The only way to do that at this election,
is to vote Independent.”
*More on Dr Sophie Scamps’ policies at
sophiescamps.com.au
36 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

THE GREENS – Ethan Hrnjak
News
Focus on renewable energy and climate
Transitioning the economy to zero carbon
emissions by achieving 100 per
cent renewable energy by 2030 is a key
campaign policy of The Greens, according
to the party’s Mackellar candidate
Ethan Hrnjak.
Mr Hrnjak says the move will enable
Australia to export publicly owned
energy and become established as a
“renewable energy superpower”.
Climate, integrity, housing, education
and health are the pillars of The Greens’
policy.
“I’m standing for Mackellar because,
as a young person I’m witnessing the
climate crisis unfold before me. I think
of the future and don’t see the changes
we urgently need,” he said.
“The lack of young and diverse voices
in Parliament – where debate is dominated
by the market-oriented rhetoric of
our major parties – contributes to young
people’s climate anxiety, political apathy
and ultimately, disengagement.”
Mr Hrnjak said that “in a world of
increasing despair and resignation”, The
Greens were putting forward a “bold
and positive pathway” towards a cleaner,
greener and fairer future for all.
“At the top of our priorities for Mackellar
is climate policy,” he said. “Our fully
costed climate action plan will create
hundreds of thousands of jobs, bring
electricity costs down, and drive our
economy into the future.
“We’ll immediately ban the construction
of new coal, oil and gas infrastructure,
ensuring we can transition our
economy to zero carbon emissions, by
achieving 100 per cent renewable energy
by 2030.
“We’ll export this clean, green and
CLIMATE PRIORITY: Ethan Hrnjak.
publicly owned energy to overseas markets,
establishing Australia as a renewable
energy superpower.”
He added The Greens had a track record
on promoting integrity in politics.
“Democracy should not be for sale. We
will deliver a strong, independent corruption
watchdog that will be retrospective,
can act on tip-offs, and holds public
hearings.
“We will lift parliamentary standards,
cap all donations at $1,000, and shut the
revolving doors between government
and corporate boards.
“Unlike the rest, we lead by example.
Greens NSW does not accept corporate
donations and caps individual donations
at $6,600pa.”
He says he is committed to getting
David Shoebridge elected to the Senate
“so that he can continue his fight for
integrity and transparency within the
federal Parliament, just as he has in the
NSW Parliament for the past decade”.
Mr Hrnjak said the housing market
was “broken”, with a shortage of more
than 8,000 affordable homes on the
Northern Beaches.
“By building one million new dwellings,
we’ll ensure there’s a home for all,”
he said. “These homes will be sustainable,
accessible and affordable. We’ll
fund it by making billionaires pay more
tax and scrapping handouts to property
developers and speculators.”
He says education is one of the best
possible investments in Australia’s
future.
“That’s why The Greens will invest $49
billion to fully fund public schools and
make childcare, university and TAFE
free.
“We’ll also abolish all student debt
– so that everyone has access to a free
preschool-to-PhD education.”
On health, Mr Hrnjak said: “In a rich
nation, everyone should have access to
the healthcare they need, so the Greens
would provide Medicare-funded free
dental and mental healthcare to all, accessible
through your Medicare card.
“We’d also reinvest the billions paid
in private health insurance rebates back
into the public system, slashing out of
pocket costs and funding our public
hospitals.
“We must seize back the initiative at
this election to protect our planet, end
the intergenerational theft that is being
committed, as well as provide the whole
community with the education, healthcare
and housing that will create hope
for the future,” he said.
“For these reasons I urge you to Vote 1
Green in both the Lower House and the
Senate.”
*Read more about The Greens’ policies
at greens.org.au/platform
38 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

Surfing Life
with Nick Carroll
Some big waves, nostalgia
rolling onto the small screen
Although it’s cheesy fun, ‘Barons’ seems a bit barren on 1970s surf substance
Surfing Life
If I were doing some sort of
Cultural Studies thing at uni,
I’m pretty sure I would choose
‘Representations Of Surfing In
Mainstream Western Media’ as
a thesis.
You couldn’t go wrong. From
‘Gidget’ through to ‘Point Break
2’, it’s one long thin string of
hilarious cheese, leavened with
corny superannuation ads,
Batman Vs Joker cameos, hippie
fantasia surf flicks, various
movie stars playing it up for the
youth audience, and of course
perhaps the most successful
sub-B-Grade film ever made,
‘Big Wednesday’.
So much to analyse!!
Maybe the best thing of
all, after 60-odd years of it,
people still seem keen as ever CAREFUL HOW YOU HOLD THAT BOARD: The cast of ‘Barons’ contemplate getting wet.
to Represent, and the past
coupla months have seen several
highly worthy additions to
the canon. But do any of them
hold any water? In a manner of
speaking.
First, let’s go there with
‘Barons’, the ABC’s recent surfsploitation
drama series. I’ve
got to admit I am a bit torn over
‘Barons’. The show is billed as
a look into the freewheeling
beginnings of the Australian
surf industry back in the early
1970s, and to tell the truth, it is
full-on magnificent nonsense.
Everyone in the show looks like
they were dressed out of an op
shop, nobody looks like they’ve
surfed more than maybe a few
days just prior to filming (in
fact, the stars had to undergo
crash courses in how to carry
a surfboard, which is harder
to fake than most non-surfers
think). And can I tell you, the
early ’70s were not a high point
for carefree young women surfers
claiming the sexual liberation
high ground.
It makes me wonder if period
dramas get easier to make
the further away you are from
the time in question; maybe
the ’70s are still too close for
comfort, or too many of us
have actual memories of the
surf culture at the time, which
differed in so many awkward
factual ways to the version
depicted in ‘Barons’.
There’s so many crazy-epic
stories still waiting to be told
from this time, it should make
me feel a bit sad for a lost opportunity
here, but instead, I
found myself a bit seduced by
the show. ‘Barons’ might not be
crazy-epic core surf storytelling,
but it is actually a lot of
cheesy fun. It’s not nearly as
serious as it takes itself, and
maybe in that way, it’s closer to
the surf culture than it knows.
Second, there’s AppleTV+’s
‘Make Or Break’. Produced by
BoxToBox, the mega successful
crew behind Netflix’s super hit
‘Formula One: Drive To Survive’,
this six-part series takes you
behind the scenes of 2021’s
WSL Championship Tour, as
the top pros travel the world
through COVID-19’s carnage,
trying to scrap through it to a
title showdown in California in
September.
‘Make Or Break’ follows in a
long and honourable tradition
of sports producers trying
to get hold of pro surfing’s
gossamer thread and wave it
into a narrative. Probably the
most successful to date has
been David Hill, who produced
a (coincidence?) six-part series
for Channel Nine on a single
surfing contest: the 2SM-Coca
Cola Surfabout of 1978. Hill’s
show blew up the ratings, won
awards, set its maker up for a
hugely successful TV sports
broadcasting career (Hill went
on to lead Fox Sports in the US),
and was never quite repeated.
I don’t know if ‘Make Or
Break’ will do all that for the
BoxToBox crew – heck, it
doesn’t need to. They’re already
kinda TV gods. But for sure
it’s the sharpest show about
modern pro surfing anyone’s
ever made. The six parts are
craftily constructed, focusing
on several different surfers or
little groups of surfers, and
using their ups and downs to
showcase the different layers of
tour culture, from psyched yet
clumsy rookies (Aussie Morgan
Cibilic and South African Matthew
Macgillivray) to selfdoubting
superstars (our own
Steph Gilmore). All the ‘Drive To
Survive’ storytelling tropes are
there, which is a good thing,
because they work – shows like
this don’t happen by accident,
even if it looks like that at
times.
BoxToBox isn’t quite as in
love with surfing as they are
with F1, so the weird gossamer
spun around pro surfing – a
sport that isn’t quite a sport –
evades the show a bit. But they
are back on tour this year, and
2022’s already a bell-ringer.
Season Two will probably be a
gem.
Third, and most spectacularly,
there’s ‘Facing Monsters’.
This feature doco follows
Western Australian surfer Kerby
Brown through his life as one of
the most adventurous surfers
to have ridden a wave, and
it’s so astoundingly raw and
beautiful I can’t really think
of anything in the cheesy corridors
of surf moviedom that
compares.
Cinematographer Rick Rifici’s
ultra-skilled camera follows
Kerby and his younger brother
Cortney into surfing situations
so extreme they feel as if
40 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

NICK’S MAY SURF FORECAST
The past six months on Australia’s east coast have been defined
by La Niña, whether you’re a surfer or not. There’s the difficult:
many people lost houses and livelihoods to the floods, and a few
lost their lives as well. And there’s the good: many deep aquifers
will be receiving inflows from this wild wet season for months
and years, while the bush commences its true recovery from the
fire season of 2019/20. But La Niña is now done, and I suspect its
effects will move off very quickly. That makes May a kind of standin
April. Light winds, cooler air, more southerly swell influence,
and smaller yet still visible easterly swells out of the trade-wind
line north of NZ. The beaches need a bit of recovery right now and
I think May will give that to them.
Nick Carroll
they’re happening on another
planet – which, being shot off
the remote desert coasts of
WA, they might as well be. The
movie veers between these
exquisite, terrifying surf scenes
and an unsparing and emotional
family tale surrounding
Kerby, his Dad Glenn, partner
Nicole and two young kids, who
are all caught up one way or
another in Kerby’s own unsparing
commitment to riding waves
nobody else is even considering.
The crisis, when it comes,
was completely unplanned by
anyone, yet plays out in the
most touchingly truthful way,
as Kerby is forced by circumstance
into reckoning with his
obsession.
‘Facing Monsters’ doesn’t just
tell a great story in a uniquely
powerful way, it also captures
something that evades pretty
much every other representation
of surfing I’ve ever seen,
on the big screen or the small
– the actual feeling of being in
the water, in those moments
when your surfing experience
transcends everything else
you’ll ever feel. If you get a
chance, go and see it.
Surfing Life
The Local Voice Since 1991
MAY 2022 41

Hot Property
Rush of interest shores
up value of privacy
Hot Property
The true value of homes
on the western shores of
Pittwater are at last being
recognised, with a rush on local
properties offering privacy and
seclusion.
Presenting the local market
wrap for the first four months
of this year, LJ Hooker’s David
Edwards and Peter Robinson
observed while property turnover
for Palm Beach and Whale
Beach was down in relation to
the corresponding period last
year, interest in properties on
Pittwater’s western shores,
Great Mackerel Beach and
Coasters Retreat was buoyant.
Robinson said that while the
market at the high-end was
still robust, they were seeing
lower-priced properties “starting
to suffer a little from buyer
fatigue.”
“In this market all the factors
that drove the market from the
year before… having a closed
economy because of COVID,
lack of overseas travel, benign
interest rates… are all working
in reverse – the market is
now open so people can travel,
there’s a fear that interest rates
may rise and that’s made the
market a little bit more conservative,”
Edwards said.
He said in the first quarter of
2022 there were nine sales in
the area; in the first quarter of
2021 there were 13 sales.
“However, the dramatic shift
is the fact that those nine sales
have equated to just over $100
million in transactions – compared
to around $40 million
in the first quarter last year,”
Robinson said.
Edwards said the median
price was up from just under $5
million to about $8.7 million in
the first quarter of 2022.
“What that tells me – less
turnover but higher prices – is
that the buyers were really
looking for boutique properties,
unique properties, properties
that offered something
different,” he said.
Robinson noted there had
not been a sale in Whale Beach
so far this year – this time last
year by the first quarter, five
properties in the suburb had
changed hands.
“The Whale Beach market is a
very shallow market… there is
not a lot of depth, there’s not a
lot of property, so my feeling is
everyone positioned themselves
the year before… we had
really good price increases,
people love the area and no one
wanted to sell,” Edwards said.
“Although the turnover figures
in Palm Beach were down
this year to the corresponding
period last year, where they
were made up, was on the
western shores, Great Mackerel
Beach and Coasters Retreat,
where we saw $15 million in
sales in the first quarter with
median prices over $5 million.”
It seems the serene, safe and
private western foreshores of
NATURE LOVER’S PARADISE:
This 2-bedroom home at 30 Ross
Smith Parade Great Mackerel
Beach is listed with LJ Hooker
with a price guide of $2.8m.
Pittwater are no longer flying
under the real estate radar.
“It’s quite astounding in
terms of how it has flourished
as an area that people turn to
for lifestyle properties,” Robinson
said.
“You can see the benefits of
the area, but the properties
have always been undervalued
there… they really are coming
of age,” he said.
Uniting Venues’
Elanora sell-off
A significant parcel of land with
a conference centre, a range of
meeting spaces, accommodation
and a capacity to host functions
for up to 220 people will
be sold by the Uniting Church.
Continued on page 44
42 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

Hot Property
Renovated on the waterfront
Clareville
282 Hudson Parade
5 Bed / 3 Bath / 3 Car
hidden gem soaking up the all-day north sun just above the
A child-friendly Refuge Cove reserve, this immaculate waterfront
residence is what Pittwater living is all about.
Renovated from top to bottom just six years ago, it’s designed
to embrace an indoor/outdoor lifestyle with wide, shady verandahs
overlooking the shoreline; banks of glass louvres to capture
the coastal breezes; and gorgeous ironbark floors throughout.
There are living zones on both upper and lower levels along
with a sunlit pool, gourmet island kitchen with a full suite of Smeg
appliances, plus a landscaped pathway straight down to the sandy
beach on Refuge Cove.
* Contact the listing agents at LJ Hooker Avalon Beach:
David Watson (0414 441 111) & Jono Gosselin (0488 011 870).
Family-sized beach rental
Avalon Beach
540 Barrenjoey Rd
5 Beds / 2 Bath / 2 Cars
Nestled amongst the serene bushland of Avalon headland, this
charming family home is accessed via its own private drive.
Enjoying an abundance of natural light in a sunny location,
indulge in expansive views across Avalon Village and enjoy a short
stroll into town and to the shores of the beach.
Features five spacious bedrooms (Master with full-length built-in
robes), with the fifth bedroom a potential study.
It has polished timer floorboards throughout while glass sliding
doors flow to an expansive north-east facing balcony.
Presents with modern kitchen with dishwasher; separate downstairs
living area; plus level rear lawn. For lease – $1250 per week.
* Contact the leasing agents @ LJ Hooker Avalon Beach:
Sian Uther (0439 844 743) & Lauren Fisher (0499 154 655).
Continued from page 42
The property on approximately
8-hectares at 19A Wesley Street,
which extends to bushland
boarding Ingleside and North
Narrabeen, has been a popular
venue for schools, bands, businesses,
sport and community
groups for more than 60 years.
The unique space was acquired
by Sir Frederick Harold Stewart
who set aside some 20 acres
of pristine land when Elanora
Heights was slowly developing.
Sir Frederick had a vision
for developing the land into a
youth camp facility and within
three years the site was officially
opened in October 1958.
In more recent times Uniting
Venues had been hosting some
140 groups and events annually
on the site.
Uniting Church Synod confirmed
the “difficult decision to
sell”, expressing appreciation
to all those who had worked
there “particularly in the last two
years as we have navigated more
challenging times caused by
COVID-19.” Bookings until June are
being honoured.
– Lisa Offord
SALE: The Uniting
Venues site at Elanora.
44 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

Shirley’s
life lessons
Life Stories
A mother, teacher and with decades
of service to community, Shirley Phelps
is truly an unstoppable force.
Story by Rosamund Burton
When Shirley Phelps tells me she
has recently been hospitalised
with COVID-19 I expect to
find her frail and immobile, but the
immaculately dressed 92-year-old is
rushing around her home in Newport,
searching for old photographs. She truly
is an unstoppable force.
It April, as reported in Pittwater Life,
Shirley relinquished the presidency of
Northern Beaches Indoor Sports Centre,
handing over to Alex McTaggart after
25 years at the helm. As a new elected
Pittwater councillor in 1996, Shirley put
forward the motion for the formation of
the centre and chaired the first steering
committee. The centre opened in 2001.
Shirley is the daughter of George and
Elsie Gunston. Elsie’s mother died in
childbirth, when she was three, and
Elsie grew up in an orphanage. Shirley’s
father George was the youngest of six
children of a single mother. His two
older brothers, both horsemen, got
jobs rounding up feral horses and
training them on a huge station in
North Queensland. They took 10-yearold
George with them, and he did odd
jobs around the property. The live-in
tutor for the station owner’s children
saw George had an active mind and love
of words, and every afternoon after he
had finished classes in the schoolroom,
used to give the boy a couple of hours
tuition.
“My mother was kicked out of the
orphanage aged 15, and my father was
the same age when he left the property,”
Shirley said. “They met each other
walking the Sydney streets. They had
this great ambition to have a family, and
that family was going to do something
in the world that they didn’t get the
opportunity to do.”
George took jobs labouring and
driving and Elsie worked night shifts at
a wool factory.
“Our parents saved every cent they
could for my brother’s and my education
and sports.” Shirley had elocution and
tennis lessons, and physical culture
classes from age six. Also, Elsie was
a talented dressmaker and always
dressed Shirley in beautiful clothes.
But investing in their children’s future
meant that often George and Elsie
couldn’t pay the rent, so the family
were constantly moving from one rental
property to the next.
Shirley learnt shorthand and typing in
her final year at Canterbury Girls High
School; despite being dux, she went out
to work at the age of 15 as a secretary.
50 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

“Females in those days went to
work, and boys trained in a trade. My
older brother, also called George, did
electrical engineering. But he was a
born journalist, and all through his
apprenticeship worked as a runner for
the Daily Mirror. He also played cricket
for NSW. He ended up editor of the
Hollywood News in America.”
With two Georges in the family her
mother said to her, “don’t ever bring
anybody home called George”. But she
caught the eye of George Phelps at a
dance in Punchbowl. The following
weekend he invited her to a work picnic
and impressed her greatly when he
turned up in “a beautiful jacket and
collar and tie”.
“I was 16 and George 17 when we
met, but we knew we would finish
up together.” He was doing his
apprenticeship in refrigeration in
Alexandria and Shirley worked around
the corner, so he used to wait for her
to finish at 5 o’clock each day and they
caught the train home together.
Within months they had opened a
joint bank account and were making
regular payments out of their pay.
George was a keen surfer and member
of the Queenscliff SLSC, so they were
always going to live near the beach, and
three years later they bought a small
block of land in Manly Vale.
They married when Shirley was 21,
and George’s father, who was a builder,
built them a 20-foot by 12-foot garage,
which they lived in for four years while
they built a two-bedroom house. Their
daughter, Kerryn, was born in 1957, and
with a dream of a house overlooking
Pittwater they planned to move to Prince
Alfred Parade in Newport before their
son Peter arrived in 1960. But, their
architect died and their builder went
bankrupt, so for six months, with their
newborn baby and toddler, they moved
in with Shirley’s parents, to their small
one-bedroom house at Narrabeen.
George always wanted to own a
country pub, and although Shirley is a
non-drinker they bought a half share in
a pub in Pambula on the South Coast.
They arrived with their two small
children at 9pm one evening to hear
a cow mooing. The cow came with the
pub, but hadn’t been milked that day.
An hour later Shirley was hammering on
the door of the courthouse, as the local
policeman – another George – had had
an arrangement with the previous owner
to milk the cow, and in payment keep
half the milk for his four kids.
“He milked the cow and we became
great friends and later did two caravan
Continued on page 52
PHOTO: Rosamund Burton
Life Stories
CLOCKWISE FROM OPPOSITE: Shirley, fresh despite a bout of COVID, at
home in Newport; the young teenager attending Canterbury Girls High
in 1942; with husband George in the 1990s; with actor son Peter; Shirley
remains active on the tennis court, along with playing partner 94-year-old
John Casey; receiving her OAM from Governor of NSW Marie Bashir in 2013;
three generations of Phelps women – Shirley with daughter Kerryn and
granddaughter Jaimi; on her wedding day; graduating from university.
The Local Voice Since 1991
MAY 2022 51

Life Stories
Continued from page 51
trips around Australia with
him,” she recalls.
During their two years
at Pambula, George played
for the local rugby league
club. All the players and
their wives used to come
to the pub for dinner at the
weekends and Shirley would
entertain them playing
the piano. And the day the
cow won first prize at the
Merimbula Show, she was in
the pub too.
The Phelps’ next
destination was New Guinea
in 1965, when George
was asked to supervise
the installation of the
refrigeration equipment he
had sold to a company there.
Shirley had always wanted
to be a teacher and when
she was 45 she saw a TAFE
NSW advertisement in a
newspaper, looking for office
administration teachers.
“The kids said, ‘Mum
why don’t you do that?’ So I
applied and was accepted.”
With her typing and clerical
skills she was immediately
given a teaching role six
hours a week, while she
studied for her Diploma of
Teaching, and then TAFE NSW
put her through her Bachelor
of Education.
“Kerryn, Peter and I all
went to university at the
same time.”
Shirley speaks proudly
and fondly of her daughter,
high-profile medical
practitioner and politician
Kerryn Phelps, talking of her
ability as a writer (she has
written five books on health)
and intelligence and strong
personality, explaining that
she needed both when she
became the first woman
to be elected President of
the Australian Medical
Association (just one of her
many achievements).
Equally proud of her son,
AFI and Logie Award-winning
actor and writer Peter Phelps,
she shows me his book,
The Bulldog Track (Hachette
2018), about the escape of his
grandfather Tom Phelps from
the goldmines in the New
Guinea Highlands back to
Australia, when the Japanese
attacked in 1942.
With her degree under her
belt, Shirley taught office
52 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

management and became
a senior head teacher for
TAFE NSW in Newcastle
and Meadowbank. When
she retired, because of
her knowledge of local
government, TAFE NSW
employed her to establish
and teach its Owner Builder
Course, which she continued
to do until she was 80.
George also worked until
he was 80 in a part-time
sports medicine role at
Barker College. And for his
years of voluntary service,
particularly teaching people
with disabilities to swim, he
was awarded a Medal of the
Order of Australia (OAM) in
2002. When George went into
palliative care in 2018 Shirley
slept on the floor beside him
for 10 weeks until he died.
Her eyes fill with tears as she
says, after 70 years together,
she can’t quite believe that he
is not still here.
Whenever the circus was
at Warriewood, Shirley says
she was left devastated by
the sight of the elephant,
and the lions and tigers in
cages. Determined to do
something about this, as well
as development in the area
she felt was inappropriate,
and her desire to set up an
indoor sports facility, she ran
for council and was elected
to what was then Pittwater in
1995. She served two terms,
was on council from 1995 to
2003, serving for two years as
deputy mayor. Pittwater was
one of the first councils in
NSW to ban exotic animals in
circuses, and there are now
no exotic animals in circuses
in NSW.
After retiring from council
Shirley joined the committee
of Pittwater Residents
Against Inappropriate
Development (PRAID), formed
to put in place rules and
guidelines to prevent overdevelopment
of the area. She
was awarded a Medal of the
Order of Australia Medal
(OAM) in 2013 for her services
to the local community.
A truly remarkable local
community contributor,
Shirley is not slowing down.
She has played tennis all her
life and can still be found on
the courts at Careel Bay on
Friday mornings. By George,
what a life!
The Local Voice Since 1991
MAY 2022 53

Art Life
Reflections
Art Life
of Island life
short boat ride, casual paddle
or moderately challeng-
Only, to be exhibited at Mos-
new body of work Water Access
A
ing swim from Church Point man’s Bathers Pavilion from
ferry wharf, Scotland Island offers
a lifestyle lived in tune with Since relocating to Scotland
May 7.
nature. From daily dinghy rides, Island three years ago, Gemma
catching blue swimmer crabs says she has slipped easily into
or the occasional octopus, bush the “quirky and multifarious
walks, boat breakdowns, bilge community” alongside many
pump failures or the annual fellow artists and sailors alike.
Scotland Island Dog Race – life She says inspiration for
is certainly far from dull. artmaking is infinite and this
A celebration of this offshore exhibition draws on views, colours
and ideas gathered from
way of life is the central motif
for local artist Gemma Rasdall’s her natural surroundings as
WATER ACCESS ONLY: Gemma Rasdall’s new exhibition includes watercolour
and gauche works on paper, hand-painted prints and mixed media paintings.
well as friends’ and neighbours’
balconies.
Expanding on her well-known
‘paintings on sailcloth’, this
exhibition will also include watercolour
and gouche works on
paper, hand-painted prints and
mixed media paintings.
Water Access Only will be
on display May 7 – June 20 at
Bathers Pavilion on the Balmoral
flats and is open to the public
for free.
To see more of Gemma’s
work or to register your interest
in this exhibition head to gemmarasdall.com
– NW
* Gemma Rasdall’s painting
is featured on the cover of
this magazine (May 2022).
Barrenjoey pair’s Express win
Barrenjoey High School Batten Youth Art Award.
graduates Noah Bloom
Express Yourself is
and Lila Kools have beaten an annual exhibition of
off an exceptional field to be artworks by HSC Visual Arts
named the joint winners of students, selected from the
Art Express’ prestigious Theo 20 secondary schools across
SHARED HONOURS: Works by Barrenjoey High graduates Lila Kools (above)
and Noah Bloom (right) took out the Theo Batten Youth Art Award.
Sydney’s
Northern
Beaches at
the Manly
Art Gallery &
Museum.
This year’s
exhibition
featured
58 selected
works, with 18 eligible
students who applied for the
$5,000 Theo Batten Youth
Art Award to assist them with
tertiary study in the arts or a
related field.
Karoun Zouain and Maya
O’Neill (NBSC – Freshwater
Senior Campus) and Breeze
Williams (Stella Maris College)
shared the Manly Art Gallery
& Museum Society Youth Art
Award.
Barrenjoey High’s Mary
Bradhurst and Oxford Falls
Grammar School’s Emma
Sutton joined Oonagh
O’Dwyer and Elle Fitzgerald
(both NBSC
– Manly
Campus) in
attracting
Highly
Commended
awards.
One of
the judges,
local multidisciplinary
Indigenous artist
Billy Bain, said the students
had explored contemporary
themes important to them,
including isolation, gender
and the environment.
“This exhibition is a really
important community event
which supports our aspiring
local artists and students
straight out of high school,”
he said.
“Choosing the winners was
challenging as they were all so
insightful into current issues
and brilliant technically.”
* More info on the Gallery
page on Council’s website.
54 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

How Instagram is
transforming interiors
You only have to scroll
through real estate listings
or visit your local café
to know that interiors have
changed dramatically during
the past 10 years. With
the exponential growth
of Instagram in the past
decade the correlation is
obvious – the image sharing
platform has created
instant, easy, international access to interior trends for all.
This exposure has accelerated our adoption of new ideas and
expanded our expectations of how a home, workplace or hotel
should look.
Consequently there is also now an increased demand for skilled
professionals to design and deliver these spaces.
Instagram is also changing the way graduates in the interior design,
decoration and styling industry grow their careers. Gone are
the days they will need to “climb the ladder” in a design firm; now
they’re using social media to create their own flexible, freelance
careers.
“Sydney Design School students capture their creative journey
on Instagram and this often flows seamlessly into a business profile
when they graduate,” says the school’s director Amanda Grace.
“Social media allows them to express their personal aesthetic
and attract clients directly.”
Amanda says Sydney Design School is rising to the challenge
of this growing industry offering fast, affordable and accredited
options to study. Their flexible career courses in interior design,
decoration and styling are delivered by practising Interior Designers
and Architects in a real studio environment.
This award-winning school is currently enrolling for their July
2022 intake but also offer options to study self-paced online or
guided by a teacher from home.
* To find out more, register for an Info Session at sydneydesignschool.com;
also check out @sydneydesignschool
FLEXIBLE:
On location
at Blu Dot.
Call for young writers
to ‘rise’ and shine
Young people across the
Northern Beaches are
encouraged to enter this year’s
Young Writers’ Competition for
their chance to be published.
Now in its 13th year, the
annual competition is open to
students from kindergarten
to grade 12 who live or go
to school on the Northern
Beaches. The theme of this
year’s competition is ‘rise’.
“It’s time for young writers
to once again rise and shine
and show us what they’ve got,”
said Mayor Michael Regan.
“More than 500 stories were
submitted in last year’s competition,
and we suspect this
year will be just as competitive.”
Entrants can write on any
topic or theme, but must include
a derivation of the word
‘rise’. Entries will be grouped
by age and judged according
to characterisation, originality,
plot and language.
Four finalists will be chosen
in each age category and
invited to a presentation night
on Wednesday 10 August,
where a winner, runner-up and
two highly commended prizes
are awarded.
Finalists from each category
will have their stories published
in an eBook which is
added to the Northern Beaches
Council Library collection.
Entries close Tuesday 31
May 2022. Entrants must be
members of the Northern
Beaches Council Library
Service.
* More info Council website.
PHOTO: Joshua Grace Blu Dot
Art Life
The Local Voice Since 1991
MAY 2022 55

8
4
2
Mother’s Day
Presents of
5
1 RITZYROCKS
3
Gold ‘n’ Things
Owner Renata insists there is no better gift than to give your
Mum a handmade Millefiore Heart (meaning 1000 flowers in
Italian) on Sunday May 8. And if you order now you can get it to
Mum on time! Each heart has been painstakingly crafted by master
artisans in the heart of Venice. And each piece is handmade,
meaning each heart is unique in its pattern arrangement. All
deliveries will be express posted for Mother’s Day – and Renata
says that if needed, they can be hand-delivered on the Northern
Beaches. Available on the website ritzyrocks.com.au
2
Ecotopia
In the lead up to Mother’s Day, Ecotopia is offering a canvas of
possibility to find the perfect present for the mother in your life.
Find a ‘superstar’ product, or create a bespoke gift box to share
the love on this special day. Ecotopia was born from a love of
practical and ethical items for everyday use to uplift and inspire
each moment of a life well-lived. From gorgeous mulberry silk
sleep products to Australian natural skincare brands like Edible
Beauty, they look forward to helping you find the right gift for
your Mum. Their full range spans a wide but curated collection
of fragrance for the self and space (such as sage, palo santo,
Egyptian perfume oils and more), Australian skincare, ambient
lighting, an extensive and ever-growing crystal collection
including crystal meditation masks, jewellery, natural yoga mats,
journals, Serenascent, and much more. Share a moment that
keeps on giving! Visit them at Unit 3, 4 Vuko Place, Warriewood.
Open 9am-5pm, Monday-Friday. Check out their online store:
ecotopiaemporia.com; Instagram/Facebook: @ecotopiaemporia.
P: 9999 0351.
Thinking of something particularly special for Mum? Gold ‘n’
Things Jewellery at Mona Vale has been owned and operated by
two generations of the Bradbury family – Keith, his wife Vicki and
their son Sam – since March 1984. They specialise in anything
to do with jewellery, whether it be designing, repairing or sales.
“We have a workshop on the premises and we understand the
sentimental value jewellery can hold and can assure any customer
that their loved items will be safe in our hands,” said Sam.
“We pride ourselves on being a local family owned business in
Mona Vale, and owe our success to the loyal customers we have
acquired over the past 37 years.” Talk to the Gold ‘n’ Things jewellers
about their knowledge of diamonds, gemstones and pearls.
Find them at shop 3/9 Bungan St. P: 9999 4991.
NASH + BANKS
Northern beaches-based ethical and sustainable gift store NASH +
BANKS, located in the Avalon village, has a range of unique, highquality
eco-friendly and artisan products for those that appreciate
conscious gifts with meaning. This Mother’s Day they’re offering
a collection of thoughtfully pre-curated gift boxes that are perfect
for showing Mum how much she’s appreciated. Or, if you prefer to
design your own, choose from NASH + BANKS’ extensive range of
fashion, beauty, home décor and so much more, and have it presented
in an eco-friendly luxe giftbox. Each and every item in the
NASH + BANKS stable has been carefully chosen after a scrupulous
research and vetting process and meets the requirements of at
least one of NASH + BANKS’ eight core values: Ethical, Sustainable,
Artisan, Minimal Waste, Vegan, Australian Made, Gives Back, Natural.
Visit the store or online at nashandbanks.com
56 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991
4

1
6
mind
5
Ecodownunder
For thoughtful gifts to delight Mums and motherly figures, Ecodownunder
has a selection of lovely ideas to help you recognise
those caring people in your life. Luxuriously soft and warm alpaca
throws in a range of new colours perfect for curling up in her
favourite chair with a book, or an extra cosy layer in bed during
winter; pure mulberry silk pillowcases ($59) introduce glamour and
luxury whilst treating her hair and face gently during the night,
ensuring she awakes with frizz-free hair; pamper her in a super
plush organic cotton bath robe, encouraging her to take some time
out for herself to relax, presented with a bonus beach bag for days
out (only $99); lay the foundations for good sleep with the softest
smoothest eco cotton sheets, or treat her to European flax linen, a
present that will last and improve with age. Linen becomes softer
and more beautiful each time you use it. A beautiful fragrance for
the home dispersed by diffusers or hand poured candles, is sure to
brighten the day. When you’re not sure what to buy, a gift certificate
takes the stress and the guesswork out of giving and if she
lives nearby, give her your time! Gift ideas from $25, gift vouchers
and free shipping – visit ecodownunder.com.au
6
The Art Shop
Independent art and design store The Art Shop at Mona Vale has
a great selection of mindful gifts for Mums. Here you will find
everything you need for drawing, sketching, journalling, doodling,
and painting with watercolours, acrylics or oils, along with
lots of materials to inspire young budding artists. Along with an
extensive range of materials for the artist, student and designer
of any age, The Art Shop is packed with creative and hard-to-find
gift ideas. Beautiful books will inspire and fire the imagination.
The Local Voice Since 1991
7
Mother’s Day rule number
one: any gifts should be
thoughtful. Here’s our pick
from local businesses, sure
to warm your Mum’s heart.
Paints, pencils, pens, brushes, easels, papers, journals, canvases
and clay will bring ideas to life. They stock a range of art and
creative activity kits as well as beautifully designed jigsaws for
relaxing days. If choosing is hard, gift vouchers for any amount
are available. The Art Shop is open from 9.30am to 4.30pm Mon -
Fri and 10am to 2pm on Sat; 54 Darley St. P: 9979 6559
7
Broken Bay Yacht Charters
Treat Mum to a private cruise on Pittwater – and it doesn’t have
to be on Mother’s Day. You’ll discover Pittwater’s beautiful
bays and serene surroundings aboard the classic timber yacht
Tashego which launched 50 years ago! This elegantly fitted out
42-foot vessel is one of only four yachts produced by the master
shipbuilding Halvorsen family – she is sailing royalty! Threehour
catered brunch and twilight cruises depart Palm Beach at
10.30am and 2.30pm for up to eight adults ($275pp), or you can
book a fully catered private charter for four hours ($1,375). Visit
brokenbayyachtcharter.com.au. P: 0449 009 740.
8
3
Foleys Nursery
Some say it with flowers – others say it with plants! Foleys Nursery
is a family owned and run local business. They pride themselves
on stocking the latest plant trends and the old favourites suited to
the local area. For green thumb-inclined Mums, Foleys have a large
range of water-savvy plants for both indoors and outside, a large
selection of quality pots, soils and mulch, fertilisers and pest control.
Come in and see their selection of Rhipsalis; or maybe pick up
a pot and macramé pot hanger? Search for succulents, pore over
peace lillies or how about some herbs? Open 7 days at 16 Macpherson
St, Warriewood (entry via Brands Lane). P: 9997 8573.
MAY 2022 57
Mother’s Day

Health & Wellbeing
Govts push
to pull plug
on harmful,
addictive
e-cigarettes
ADDICTIVE: e-cigarettes can
contain harmful products.
Health & Wellbeing
The Liberal coalition Federal
and State Governments
have joined forces
to battle the growing health
threat presented by vaping/ecigarette
use – particularly
among young people.
The NSW Health Department
is urging young people to quit
vaping and know the facts and
dangers of e-cigarettes, which
can contain harmful substances
found in cleaning products,
nail polish remover, weed killer
and bug spray.
Meanwhile the Federal
Health Department is finalising
its ‘National Tobacco Strategy
2022-2030’ based on a draft
proposing restrictions on the
marketing, availability and use
of all e-cigarette components
in Australia, regardless of their
nicotine content.
The Federal Government is
targeting a national crackdown
that it hopes will see a ban
on brightly coloured vaping
products that claim to be
nicotine-free.
Both governments’ campaigns
follow new research
that has labelled e-cigarettes,
sold with flavours such bubble
gum and fairy floss, as “harmful
and addicting youth”.
In March, the Australian
National University (ANU) published
research commissioned
by the department that found
vaping was causing addiction
in a new generation of users
and making young people
three times more likely to take
up cigarette smoking.
“Vapes deliver hundreds
of chemicals – some of them
known to be toxic,” said
Professor Emily Banks from
the ANU National Centre for
Epidemiology and Population
Health.
“Nicotine use in children and
adolescents can lead to lifelong
addiction issues, as well as difficulties
in concentration and
learning.”
The ANU study found the
use of nicotine e-cigarettes
increased the risk of adverse
health outcomes, particularly
in youth, including addiction,
poisoning, seizures, trauma
and burns and lung injury.
Since last October it has
been illegal to import nicotine
liquid without a GP prescription
as a quit smoking aid, but vaping
products – often claiming
to be nicotine-free even though
they contain the drug – can be
easily sourced online and in
retail shops.
The ANU report found early
warning signs of adverse effects
of e-cigarettes on cardiovascular
health, including lung
function, heart rate and blood
pressure
It noted the potential of vaping
to cause cancer over the
long term remained unknown.
More than 2 million Australians
have used e-cigarettes,
which are more common
among young people, especially
males.
The study showed most
‘vapers’ do not use e-cigarettes
to try to quit smoking.
The report found 53 per
cent of current e-cigarette use
in Australia is by people who
also smoke, 31.5 per cent is by
past smokers and 15.5 per cent
is by people who have never
smoked.
Significantly there was
“limited evidence” for nicotine
e-cigarettes’ use as a stopsmoking
aid.
Professor Banks said most
people who quit smoking
continued via a “cold turkey”
approach.
Meanwhile NSW Health Minister
Brad Hazzard launched
a new ‘Get the Facts – Vaping
Toolkit’ and NSW Health awareness
campaign.
The campaign, which is
aimed at secondary students,
reminds parents, carers, young
people and teachers that vaping
is not safe and can have
harmful, long-term effects to
58 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

the physical and brain development
of young people.
Mr Hazzard said research
had proven that e-cigarettes
were just as addictive and
harmful as regular cigarettes.
“A respiratory researcher
once told me that e-vaping
liquids have chemicals that are
similar to antifreeze, with 500
different flavours to attract
kids,” Mr Hazzard said.
“It makes it pretty obvious
as to the harm it can cause to
youngsters’ lungs.”
NSW Health says many vapes
contain nicotine, some at
extremely high concentrations,
even if they are not labelled as
such, and evidence suggested
they could lead to a lifelong
nicotine addiction.
Minister for Education and
Early Learning Sarah Mitchell
urged parents to discuss the
dangers of e-cigarettes with
their children and to report any
usage in schools to principals.
“The number of young people
vaping without consideration
to the effects is concerning,”
Ms Mitchell said.
“Educating our young people
about the dangers of vaping is
essential when there continues
to be a large number of reckless
individuals selling nicotine
products to minors.”
The Vaping Toolkit and campaign
is designed to increase
young people’s awareness of
the dangers of vaping; it will
target secondary students to
raise awareness of the hidden
chemicals in vapes, and
provide a resource for teachers,
parents and carers to kick start
conversations.
It is illegal to sell e-cigarettes
or vapes to anyone under the
age of 18. There are severe
penalties for business or others
who provide them to minors,
including fines of up to $11,000
for individuals, and up to
$55,000 for corporations, for
first offences.
NSW Health continues to take
action against retailers who
sell e-cigarettes and e-liquids
containing nicotine.
The Department seized more
than 100,000 e-cigarettes
worth an estimated street value
of over $2 million from 1 July
2020 to 31 December 2021.
Get the facts about the
dangers of vaping by visiting
health.nsw.gov.au/vaping
– Nigel Wall
Health & Wellbeing
The Local Voice Since 1991
MAY 2022 59

Health & Wellbeing
with Dr John Kippen
Health & Wellbeing
The procedures to combat
frown lines and crow’s feet
With time eyebrows
descend and therefore
add skin to the
upper lids. Skin and muscle
excess also develops. This is
particularly prevalent laterally
away from the nose side
(lateral hood). Towards the
nose, puffiness or a bulge of
fatty tissue may develop. Skin
also looses elasticity. Lower
eyelids develop fullness and
puffiness. A bulge above
the deepening tear trough
accentuates the latter.
Frowning and smiling
increases lines at either end of
the eye opening or palpebral
fissure. Darker circles may
develop, especially under the
eyelids.
Frown lines and crows
feet are most easily treated
with botulinum toxin.
Muscle activity can either
be paralysed, or relaxed.
Relaxed muscles still give
some movement or animation
although this is much softer.
This will only work when the
muscles contract. Deeper lines
present at rest will remain, as
these static lines are visible
without movement. They will
soften over time with less
movement but if correction is
wanted then other modalities
of treatment need to be
considered. Filler injections
may be tried. Usually musclerelaxing
injections and fillers
are not permanent and will
need to be repeated.
It is important to asses the
forehead for position, muscle
function and skin quality as
part of the assessment for
eyelids. Eyebrow compensation
lifts the eyebrows to
accommodate the skin
excess and be unequal and
unconscious. After surgery, the
eyebrows may relax and settle
back down, adding skin back
into the eyelids.
Dark circles are within the
skin and may be difficult
to treat. They are often
made worse by bulges
and hollows which throw
shadows, especially with
downlights. Simple concealers
or camouflage makeup may
work well and have minimal
to no risks. Light treatments
and medical-grade lightening
creams or ointments may
have a role. It is important not
to lighten the skin too much
and leave pale areas. Surgical
correction of the bulges or
hollows may also help.
Very fine skin creases or
crepiness, particularly of the
lower lids, is also a difficult
area to correct. The position of
the lower lid is very important
as the colour part of the eye
just touches this edge. The
upper lid overlaps the colour by
a few millimetres. With eyelid
closure the upper lid descends
to the lower lid.
Any tension on the lower
lid causes the lid margin to
drop and the white, or sclera,
becomes visible and is known
as ‘scleral show’. Another
sign of too much tension is an
opening of the lateral triangle
of they eyes. This is the lateral
triangle made up of the colour
part and the upper and lower
eyelid. The lower lid tends
to drop away and open that
triangle. Lower eyelid surgery
is considered to be technically
more difficult than upper
eyelid surgery.
Surgery to the upper and
lower eyelids usually gives
very favourable results. A
full history, examination and
explanation are required
before surgery is performed.
Likely risks and benefits need
to be carefully explained and
understood. All option can
then be considered.
Our columnist
Dr John Kippen is a
qualified, fully certified
consultant specialist in
Cosmetic, Plastic and
Reconstructive surgery.
Australian trained, he
also has additional
Australian and
International Fellowships.
He welcomes enquiries;
email
doctor@johnkippen.com.au
60 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

Positive change every day of May
Local mental health organisation One
Eighty has launched a fundraising
challenge ‘Every Day of May’, aiming to
unite the community and raise muchneeded
funds for youth mental health
programs.
The campaign challenges participants
to implement changes into their own
lives to support their mental health and
while they are at it, fundraise to ensure
One Eighty can continue to deliver free
accessible support services to young
people.
Recent studies show that 82 per cent
of young people reported experiencing
ill mental health over the past two years;
one in four reported having suicidal
thoughts.
Suicide is the leading cause of death
for young people in Australia – One
Eighty is on a mission to prevent youth
suicide and improve the mental health
outcomes of young people through the
delivery of vital peer support programs
and mental health education.
One Eighty says the importance that
lifestyle factors play in maintaining
mental health has been significantly
underestimated and underutilised.
In fact, research indicates that
therapeutic lifestyle changes including
CHANGE
FOR BETTER:
Focus in May.
exercise, nutrition and diet, time in
nature, recreation, relaxation and stress
management can offer significant mental
health advantages.
So how can you help? Fundraising
participants are asked to identify one
activity or lifestyle change they can
implement ‘Every Day of May’ and get
their friends, family, and workmates to
sponsor them to complete the activity
once every day over the course of the
month to complete the challenge.
One Eighty Head of Relationships
and Development Maddie Walsh says
the organisation aims to raise $20,000
through the campaign with all funds
directed towards the youth mental health
peer support group, Open Up.
“Just $60 will pay for one young person
to attend a session and connect with
peers in a safe, supportive, judgment-free
space,” Maddie said.
“By reaching our $20,000 fundraising
goal, we’ll be able to provide this service
to over 300 young people in need.”
A program run by young people for
young people, Open Up is unique in
the sense that it facilitates connection
by removing the age bracket often
associated with bigger mental health
organisations.
Being young people themselves,
Maddie said the One Eighty team know
that their friends would feel more
comfortable to practice skills of sharing,
listening, connecting with others, and
asking for help in a more casual and
accessible (but safe) setting.
For more information on One Eighty,
visit oneeighty.org.au or everydayofmay.
raisely.com.
Health & Wellbeing
The Local Voice Since 1991
MAY 2022 61

Health & Wellbeing
with Andrew Snow
Health & Wellbeing
‘Rebound’ flu season fears as
community immunity wanes
For the past two years,
Australians have enjoyed
record-low levels of influenza
in the community. This is
mainly due to the temporary
public health measures such
as the restricted national and
international travel, social distancing,
and greater emphasis
on personal hygiene such as
regular handwashing.
Through this, community immunity
against influenza strains
has naturally reduced. As
restrictions are being stepped
down and international borders
are opening up, there are fears
that Australia will suffer a “rebound”
flu season.
Influenza is a contagious
disease of the respiratory tract
caused by influenza viruses,
usually peaking in the winter
months worldwide.
It is spread through infectious
droplets made when
people talk, sneeze, or cough,
and enters the body through
the membranes of the eyes,
nose, and mouth.
Droplets can stay contagious
on surfaces for as long as 72
hours in some cases.
There can be multiple new
strains of influenza each year
as the influenza virus is highly
prone to mutations, which
can cause a lack of immunity
against a newly mutated strain.
For this reason, a flu vaccination
containing different
strains is developed every year
to accommodate this. This vaccine
is an inactive form of the
virus – there is no way that an
individual can “catch” influenza
from the vaccine itself.
For most people, influenza
only causes a short-term, selfresolving
illness which can
last from a few days to a few
weeks. However, influenza for
people with weakened immune
systems, the elderly, and those
with pre-existing respiratory,
cardiac, or endocrine diseases
can be a significant issue, causing
a much more severe illness
which can be life-threatening.
It is therefore important to
help protect these people of
our community by ensuring as
much community immunity as
possible through vaccinations.
Most pharmacies can offer
influenza vaccines at a cost
to the patient; however, some
are eligible to get the cost of
the vaccine covered through
the National Immunisation
Program if they book with their
GP. These include those over 65
years of age, those with certain
health conditions, and women
who are currently pregnant.
It is important to note that if
you are eligible for the fourth
COVID-19 booster vaccination
(over 65 or with underlying
health issue), or are getting
your third booster, it is safe to
get the influenza vaccine at the
same time.
The spread of influenza can
be prevented through avoiding
close contact with people who
are unwell, and staying home if
you are feeling unwell.
Just as with the precautions
we have taken over the past
two years in the face of the
COVID pandemic, regular hand
washing, along with regularly
disinfecting surfaces at home
and in the workplace, can
help prevent the spread of the
disease.
Also, vitamin and mineral
supplementation can help to
boost the immune system
during the influenza season –
we recommend you speak to
your local pharmacist for more
advice.
Pittwater Pharmacy &
Compounding Chemist
at Mona Vale has operated
as a family-run business
since 1977. Open seven
days; drop in and meet
the highly qualified and
experienced team of Len,
Sam and Amy Papandrea
and Andrew Snow. Find
them at 1771 Pittwater Rd;
call 9999 3398.
62 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

Health & Wellbeing
The Local Voice Since 1991
MAY 2022 63

Health & Wellbeing
Beefing up ethical
food knowledge
Health & Wellbeing
If you enjoy eating meat
and want to buy ethically
sourced, sustainable meat,
it’s now widely regarded that
‘regenerative meat’ is the way
to go.
But what is regenerative
meat? And why should
consumers care?
A broad definition of
regenerative meat is that it
was produced by farmers
practising regenerative
agriculture.
This practice aims to
reverse climate change by
rebuilding organic matter in
the soil to optimise carbon
capture and diversifying crops
to restore soil health.
We asked Avalon Beachbased
Matilda Brown and
Scott Gooding, the husbandand-wife
team behind The
Good Farm Shop, to enlighten
us:
“Regenerative farming is
the same whether you’re
taking about meat, grains or
vegetables,” Matilda said.
“It’s really the opposite
of industrial farming and is
about regenerating the land
and prioritising soil health.”
Matilda explained there
were certain principles that
“regen farmers” apply – like
no-tilling, cover crops, no
chemicals or pesticides and
only using organic fertilisers
– but essentially the aim is to
make the soil healthy.
In the simplest terms:
n Crops pull carbon out of the
atmosphere and turn it into
sugars.
n The sugars trickle out of
the plant roots and feed the
microorganisms in the soil.
n The micro-organisms
thrive, which in turn creates
healthy food for the animals
to graze on.
n The animal-plant-microbe
relationship creates
healthy soil which stores
excess carbon and uses it,
instead of it staying in our
atmosphere.
“This is how we used
to farm before industrial
agriculture completely took
over,” Matilda explained.
“Now, chemicals and
fertilisers destroy soil
nutrients and deplete the
microbiome, so nature can’t
do its job.”
Matilda said many of us
were becoming increasingly
aware of the environmental
impacts associated with
industrial agriculture.
“It’s blamed a lot on the
beef industry but grains soy,
corn… they’re all as bad as
each other when under the
industrial farming umbrella,”
she said.
“We’ve passed the point
of being able to turn our
environmental crisis around,
we now have to regenerate
our planet if we want to see it
thrive again.
“This is why regenerative
farming is so important.
“We can really make a
difference… healthy soil
needs carbon to feed the
micro-organisms and in turn
the micro-organisms provide
us with healthy and nutrient
dense crops.
“It’s just amazing how
nature works when we allow it
to do its job.”
Matilda said now more than
ever we should be asking “is
this regeneratively farmed?”
or, “how can I get my hands
on regeneratively farmed
produce?”.
The Good Farm Shop was
born from the couple’s desire
to know where their meat was
coming from.
“I was a vegan for seven
years before I met Scott and
so I really cared that the meat
I was eating was ethical, in the
sense that the animals had a
ETHICALLY MINDED: Matilda Brown and Scott Gooding (with daughter
Anouk and son Zan) are spreading the word about regenerative meat.
lovely stress-free life… that
mattered to me.
“But it wasn’t until I
started to hear this word
‘regenerative’ spoken a lot
by my mum [Rachel Ward],
who was going through the
process of changing our
family farm to full-blown
regenerative, that I stared to
understand the benefits of it.
“When I asked local
butchers and the supermarket:
‘do you have regen meat?’ and
‘Do you know your farmers?’,
I’d get these blank looks.”
So, the couple decided to
start a Cow Share.
They sent out an email to
friends and now 10 months
later, they stock produce from
seven different farms across
NSW and deliver throughout
NSW and Brisbane and
Melbourne.
“We know all our farmers by
name, and we know they are
doing right by the land and
doing their bit to regenerate
the planet,” Matilda said.
Scott and Matilda support
nose-to-tail concept and as
little waste as possible – they
only buy whole animals,
and they encourage their
customers to try all the parts,
not just the ‘primary’ cuts.
The business doesn’t have
a shopfront; they pick and
pack boxes from a warehouse
in Warriewood and deliver to
customer’s doors.
More info www.
thegoodfarm.shop
– Lisa Offord
*Readers will get a taste of
what else this multi-talented
duo have on their busy
plates when Matilda joins
Pittwater Life as a columnist
from next month (June
issue).
64 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

Hair & Beauty
with Sue Carroll
Time is right to renew and
revive your skin with a peel
As we move into the cooler
time of the year, skin
rejuvenation and the
reduction of hyperpigmentation
should be at the forefront of
your mind. Skin peeling is one
such technique for skin renewal,
offering many different intensity
levels depending on the skin
condition.
A peel is a technique that
involves the application of a
variety of chemical or herbal
solutions to remove the
damaged outer layers of dead,
discoloured and coarse skin
cells from the skin’s surface.
You will notice a profound
improvement by stimulating
the cell renewal process and
removing a build-up of dead
skin cells, particularly in skin
conditions such as wrinkles,
fine lines, texture, tone,
brightening, and lightening.
In addition, a peel
dramatically increases blood
circulation, softens scar tissue
and addresses concerns such
as blemishes and pore size. It
also stimulates fibroblasts to
assist with new cell formation,
and will ultimately result in a
healthier skin and a more even
and balanced production of
natural oils.
Classifications of the skin
should always be professionally
considered before an
experienced aesthetician
undertakes a peel. The first
is the Fitzpatrick skin type.
This guideline determines
how one might respond to
chemical peels and the risk
of hyperpigmentation by
noting the skin’s response to
sun exposure. The second
classification is the Glogau
classification – also known
as the wrinkle scale – of
photoaging designed to aid
the professional aesthetician
in determining the severity
of sun damage to the skin,
primarily visible in the form of
discolouration and wrinkles.
There are four main types of
peel intensity when carried out
The Local Voice Since 1991
in a treatment room.
Progressive – this peel does
not usually cause immediate
or visible exfoliation. However,
the skin will look refreshed
and glowing and can be
carried out as a stand-alone
treatment or in conjunction
with other facial treatments
i.e. microdermabrasion. The
progressive peel can be carried
out every 1-2 weeks for 3-6
treatments.
Progressive Plus – exfoliation
typically occurs within 2-3 days
post-treatment. This level of
peel provides good rejuvenation
with more sunburn type flaking
and dryness.
Mid-Depth – exfoliation occurs
within 2-3 days post-procedure.
The mid-depth peel provides
full-face exfoliation and
sometimes turns dark brown
before flaking. Typically peeling
occurs for 2-4 days. These peels
can occur monthly.
Deep – the skin undergoes
considerable peeling. The entire
process takes about 7-10 days
for the peeling and can occur
every 3-4 months.
Other factors that are taken
into consideration by the
experienced aesthetician are:
n Climate and time of the
year when selecting a peel
regimen;
n Homecare and use of
corrective products to make
the skin more receptive to
acids, thus creating a less
intensive treatment more
aggressive;
n The amount of times the
skin has been peeled and the
types of peels used;
n The type of skin, whether
thick, thin, oily, acne,
sensitive or hyperpigmented.
In general thin skins respond
well to progressive treatment,
while thick skins may need
a mid-depth treatment to
achieve exfoliation;
n The strength of the solution
used and the pH. The higher
the percentage and the lower
the pH, the more intense the
treatment;
n Treatment prepping method.
An aggressive prep increases
the depth of the peel;
n Length of time the solution is
left on the skin;
n Amount of solution and
the even distribution of the
peeling solution left on the
skin; and
n Method of application,
amount, and the pressure
used when applying the
solution.
Peeling with acids or herbs
is an art and a science. Many
factors need to be taken into
account by your aesthetician.
Sue Carroll is at the forefront
of the beauty, wellness
and para-medical profession
with 35 years’ experience on
Sydney’s Northern Beaches.
She leads a dedicated team
of professionals who are
passionate about results for
men and women.
info@skininspiration.com.au
www.skininspiration.com.au
MAY 2022 65
Hair & Beauty

Business Life: Money
with Brian Hrnjak
Independent daze: Aren’t
they just a de-facto party?
Business Life
THIRD TIME LUCKY: Jason Falinski is hoping for re-election again.
This month we consider
the upcoming Federal
Election… around about
this time three years ago I know
exactly what I was doing…
counselling nervous retirees,
investors and business owners
to prepare for a raft of changes
foreshadowed by Bill Shorten in
his bid to win election for Labor
in the 2019 Federal Election. To
recap, these changes included
ending refunds of excess
franking credits; changes to
limit negative gearing; halving
capital gains tax discounts;
introducing a minimum tax rate
on trust distributions; limiting
expenses that can be claimed
on managing tax affairs;
lowering the non-concessional
contributions cap on super to
$75,000; reducing the high
income threshold for additional
tax on superannuation to
$200,000; changes to catch-up
concessional contributions and
the taxing of personal contributions;
reversing the Coalitions’
legislated Stage III personal tax
cuts; introducing a two per cent
budget repair levy on incomes
above $180,000; and a 19-point
policy to go after multinational
companies avoiding local taxes.
What remains of these Labor
proposals, today, in the lead up
to the 2022 election is just one
thing: the plan to tackle multinational
tax avoidance. The
others have seemingly been
ditched in a pragmatic bid for
election. Which begs the question:
what is the 2022 Federal
Election all about?
One media article that
resonated was written by
John Kehoe in the Australian
CHALLENGER: Mackellar Independent Sophie Scamps.
Financial Review. He coined the
2022 election as the ‘Seinfeld
election’, or an election about
nothing. He noted that: “Business
leaders are disappointed
about policy debate in the
upcoming election, likening it
to the premise of ’90s comedy
hit ‘Seinfeld’. The lack of big
economic policies jars against
the economic opportunities and
challenges the nation is facing.
Australia has successfully navigated
the pandemic in health
and economic terms better than
almost any other country. More
than $300 billion of debt-funded
stimulus has pushed down the
unemployment rate to just 4
per cent and the jobless rate is
poised to fall to its lowest since
the 1970s. Another resources
boom, pumped up by insatiable
Chinese demand and the war
between energy-rich Russia and
Ukraine, is delivering a national
income boost… entering the
election, neither side is offering
a comprehensive vision on tax,
workplace relations, competition
and regulation reform to revive
stagnant productivity.”
Kehoe distils the election
down to a policy free popularity
contest between two leaders:
“Prime Minister Scott Morrison
and Treasurer Josh Frydenberg
represent the status quo, urging
people to ‘vote for what you
know’ and not to risk the economic
uncertainty of a Labor
government. Labor leader Anthony
Albanese wants a referendum
on Morrison’s character,
integrity and trustworthiness.”
Locally, however, we have
another popularity contest playing
out in the form of the ‘teal
66 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

independents’ in Warringah and
Mackellar versus their Liberal
counterparts. Zali Steggall in
Warringah and Sophie Scamps
in Mackellar are part of a wider
group of 22 candidates backed
by Simon Holmes a Court, son
of Australia’s first billionaire
Robert Holmes a Court, and his
Climate 200 Group.
I’ve never been to a party
political event in my life but if
I stand back and try to look at
the teal independents objectively:
they are predominantly
female (19 of 22 candidates),
well educated, dare I say it not
very ethnically diverse, running
on identical or very similar
platforms, all running against
Liberal opponents, all funded by
the same group. They look to
me a lot like… a political party.
Anthony Green, the ABC’s
election guru pondered this
question in an article on the
ABC website on 20 April: “Are
they a political party? Not really,
according to Green. ‘None of
them will be elected because of
Simon Holmes à Court or Climate
200,’ he says. ‘All of them
will be elected because of their
name. They need the money,
they need the advertising, but
independents need to have their
name out there. ‘No independent
will be elected if people don’t
know their name (whereas) a
political party candidate might
[be elected] because people
know the party name.”
Clearly though the issue is a
contentious one. In a 13 April
interview with Patrick Durkin in
the AFR Boss Magazine, Holmes
à Court described his movement
this way: “… [the] Climate
200 movement has been misrepresented
including by incumbent
politicians and the mainstream
media… If anything we’re like
a political venture capitalist,
your readers would understand
that,” he says. “We don’t start
campaigns, we don’t choose
candidates, campaigns come to
us and if the campaign matches
our mandate, the seat is winnable
and the fundamentals check
out, we will donate to them.”
Except that anyone who has
ever dealt with a venture capitalist
knows that once you take
their money, they call the shots.
Usually, they insist on a board
seat (or two) and I couldn’t
help but recall the blow-up Zali
Steggall had over an election
funding declaration from a ‘coal
baron’ (reported in The Australian
in February this year) which
revealed that the campaign
vehicles for Simon, Zali, Allegra
Spender in Wentworth and
Monique Ryan in Kooyong all
shared a common director or
financial controller.
In my humble opinion it’s a
free country and people can
campaign on whatever platform
floats their boat but to me an
independent is Alex McTaggart
winning Pittwater; the teal
independents with their monied
backer are a de-facto political
party in the vein of Clive Palmer’s
United Australia Party.
For business and investors,
the risks this time around don’t
appear to lie in the fundamental
policies of the major parties;
both have been politically defanged
by their small-target
strategies. With the proliferation
of minor parties and independents
the risks have never been
greater of achieving a hung
parliament. The last time this
occurred was in August 2010
and kicked off the second leg
of the Rudd-Gillard-Rudd phase
of Australian government.
Heaven forbid that John Kehoe’s
‘Seinfeld election’ morphs into a
Seinfeld Government.
Business Life
The Local Voice Since 1991
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.
MAY 2022 67

Business Life: Law
with Jennifer Harris
Spoken promises of intent:
but are they enforceable?
Business Life
The press often carry
advertisements which
state words to the effect:
“Have you been left out of
a Will? Or named in a Will
but treated unfairly? Is the
Will legally binding, can you
challenge the Will? Perhaps
you’re an Executor needing to
defend a claim?” And so on…
This can give rise to
consideration of issues other
than just interpreting Mutual
Wills in which there will be
found to exist a contract not
to revoke without notice to
the other party, which will be
enforced by a Court in the
case of breach by means of a
constructive trust in favour of
the intended beneficiaries.
The issue often comes
down to the question of what
are known as ‘testamentary
promises’, which may best be
illustrated by the observations
of a Justice in the English
Court of Appeal in a decision
in 2001 in which he said:
“It is notorious that some
elderly persons of means
derive enjoyment from the
possession of testamentary
power, and from dropping
hints, as to their intentions
without any question of
estoppel arising.”
Estoppel is a judicial device
in common law legal systems in
which a Court may prevent or
‘estop’ a person from making
assertions, or from going back
on his word, as his honour also
noted a reasonable person
faced with a representation
by a living person as to his
intentions for his will should “…
not count his chickens before
they have hatched”.
A testamentary promise
may arise where a promise
is reasonably understood or
intended to be binding and is
acted upon by the promisee
when changing his or her
position, that promise will no
longer be revocable and can
be enforced immediately by
the promisee.
What is a promise, and
can it be contrasted with
a representation of fact? A
promise is conduct on the part
of the promisor which creates
and encourages an expectation
on the part of the promisee. A
representation is generally a
statement made by a person
directed to another with the
intention that it relates to an
existing or past fact.
Representations are
the subject of common
law estoppel whereas the
enforcement of testamentary
promises are found in the
equitable jurisdiction of
the Court by way of what
is known as “estoppel by
encouragement”.
A testamentary promise
may be reflected in a
testamentary contract, either
a contract to make a will
supported by an agreement
between the testator and
another party by which the
testator agrees to make
provision for that party, or a
third party in consideration for
the promise of doing certain
things e.g. living with the
testator and providing care for
the testator’s life or occupying
a property and renovating it
or rebuilding it.
Such promises arise
throughout society,
particularly in families where
ageing relations wishing
to retain their home and
independence may make
an arrangement, often not
documented, for a member of
the family or friend to move
in with the testator and care
for them on the basis that the
testator will reward the family
member or friend with a
benefit – usually a share in the
testator’s estate.
Sometimes these
arrangements evolve and lack
precision and clarity and when
examined by a Court fail.
An interesting example of
this situation arose last year
when the family of former
ABC Chairman and Sydney
University Chancellor, Dame
Leonie Kramer, lost a bitter
legal dispute about a verbal
promise that their property
manager could inherit the
family farm.
David Stone the manager
of a 100-acre farm owned by
Dame Leonie, claimed he was
told by her and her husband
Harry that the property would
be his upon their death.
When Dame Leonie died
in April 2016 (her husband
predeceased her by 28 years),
the Colo property was left
to her daughter Hillary, an
executor of the will.
Stone claimed Dame Leonie
and her husband had said
that since about 1975, the
property would be left to him
on condition he keep working
there, despite his receiving
less income than comparable
jobs. The family had owned
the property for about 40
years.
The court ruled that Stone’s
evidence had “been devoid of
embellishment” and that the
promise of inheritance had
been made to “supplement
what would otherwise be an
inadequate income”.
The agreement was
described as an “informal
half-way house between a
commercial and domestic
68 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

agreement” and ruled it
would be unconscionable if
the deceased estate was not
bound by the promise.
The Judge said: “David
acted on the basis of trust and
the give and take that would
commonly characterise a
domestic relationship.”
A gift of $200,000 Dame
Leonie made to him was
returned to the estate.
Last year the same court
ruled a Sydney couple should
inherit two harbourside
properties that were at the
time worth around $9 million
from their elderly neighbour
who had no children.
She promised to transfer
the Birchgrove properties
(which have since increased in
value to about $40 million), on
condition they did not extend
their property to block her
harbour views and took care
of her, so she did not have to
go into a nursing home.
However, in an updated
will made a year before she
passed away, the estate was
left to her brother and sister,
and if she outlived them,
the money was to go to two
Sydney Hospitals.
The Court ruled that there
was sufficient evidence that
promises had made and that
the couple had provided
sufficient support at their own
expense.
In farming cases it is
not uncommon for a claim
for family provision to be
combined with a claim to
enforce a mutual will or a
testamentary contract. This is
complex litigation.
A testamentary promise
may not have the status of a
binding contract but if it is
reasonable for the person to
whom the promise has been
made to act in reliance on
the interpretation, thereby
suffering detriment if the
person who has made the
promise varies departs from
the promise. The promise may
support a claim of estoppel by
encouragement or proprietary
estoppel and thus the promise
is upheld, and the estate
estopped from denying the
claim.
What measures can be
adopted to protect the person
to whom the promise is given?
n Act consistently with the
agreement that is believed
to exist and keep evidence
of those actions;
n Keep contemporaneous
chronological records of
conversations and ongoing
conduct of both sides
that is consistent with the
agreement;
n Share those records with
close reliable family and
friends so there is ultimately
corroborative evidence
available if ever needed;
n Obtain independent legal
advice about whether what
has been said amounts to
an agreement and how best
to have that reflected in
writing; and
n Be able to show a real and
reasonable reliance upon
the promise resulting in
a real and substantial
detriment to you and have
supporting evidence as to
the value of such detriment.
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
MAY 2022 69

Trades & Services
Trades & Services
AIR CONDITIONING
Alliance Climate Control
Call 02 9186 4179
Air Conditioning & Electrical Professionals.
Specialists in Air Conditioning Installation, Service,
Repair & Replacement.
NORTH EAST AIR
Call Tim 0400 364 913
We will deliver all your heating and cooling
options; prompt, courteous service.
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.
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.
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
All Northern Beaches Pressure Clean
Call 0416 215 095
Driveways, paths, garden walls, awnings, house wash.
Amazing Clean
Call Andrew 0412 475 2871
Specialists in blinds, curtains and awnings. Clean,
repair, supply new.
Aussie Clean Team
Call John 0478 799 680
For a sparkling finish, inside and out. Also light
maintenance/repairs. Free quotes; fully insured.
Housewashing -
northernbeaches.com.au
Call Ben 0408 682 525
70 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

Established 1999 in Avalon & Collaroy.
We specialise in soft and pressure washes, plus
window and gutter cleaning, driveways and
rooftops.
The Aqua Clean Team
Call Mark 0449 049 101
Quality window washing, pressure cleaning, carpet
washing, building soft wash.
CONCRETING
Pavecrete – All Concrete Services
Call Phil 0418 772 799
pavecrete@iinet.net.au
Established locally 1995. Driveways plus – Council
Accredited. Excavation service.
ELECTRICAL
Alliance Service Group
Call Adrian 9063 4658
All services & repairs, 24hr. Lighting installation,
switchboard upgrade. Seniors discount 5%.
Eamon Dowling Electrical
Call Eamon 0410 457 373
For all electrical needs including phone, TV and
data. Pittwater-based. Reliable; quality service
guaranteed.
FLOOR COVERINGS
Blue Tongue Carpets
Call Stephan or Roslyn 9979 7292
Northern Beaches Flooring Centre has been family
owned & run for over 20 years. Carpets, Tiles,
Timber, Laminates, Hybrids & Vinyls. Open 6 days.
GARDENS
!Abloom Ace Gardening
Call 0415 817 880
Full range of gardening services including
landscaping, maintenance and rubbish removal.
Melaleuca Landscapes
Call Sandy 0416 276 066
Professional design and construction for every
garden situation. Sustainable vegetable gardens
and waterfront specialist.
Precision Tree Services
Call Adam 0410 736 105
Adam Bridger; professional tree care by qualified
arborists and tree surgeons.
GUTTERS & ROOFING
Cloud9 R&G
Call Tommy 0447 999 929
Prompt and reliable service; gutter cleaning and
installation, leak detection, roof installation and
painting. Also roof repairs specialist.
Ken Wilson Roofing
Call 0419 466 783
Leaking roofs, tile repairs, tiles replaced, metal roof
repairs, gutter cleaning, valley irons replaced.
HANDYMEN
Hire A Hubby
Call 1800 803 339
Extensive services including carpentry, outdoor
maintenance, painting and plastering and more.
Trades & Services
The Local Voice Since 1991
MAY 2022 71

Trades & Services
Trades & Services
HOT WATER
Hot Water Maintenance NB
Call 9982 1265
Local emergency specialists, 7 days. Sales, service,
installation. Warranty agents, fully accredited.
KITCHENS
Collaroy Kitchen Centre
Call 9972 9300
Danish design excellence. Local beaches specialists
in kitchens, bathrooms and joinery.
Visit the showroom in Collaroy.
Seabreeze Kitchens
Call 9938 5477
Specialists in all kitchen needs; design, fitting,
consultation. Excellent trades.
LOCKSMITHS
Mosman Locksmiths
Call 9969 6333
40 years servicing the Beaches; specialists in
lock-outs including automotive, rekeying, smart
lock security; also door hardware and safe sales
& installation.
MASSAGE & FITNESS
Avalon Physiotherapy
Call 9918 3373
Provide specialist treatment for neck & back pain,
sports injuries, orthopaedic problems.
PAINTING
Cloud9 Painting
Call 0447 999 929
Your one-stop shop for home or office painting;
interiors, exteriors and also roof painting. Call for
a quote.
PEST CONTROL
Predator Pest Control
Call 0417 276 962
predatorpestcontrol.com.au
Environmental services at their best. Comprehensive
control. Eliminate all manner of pests.
PLUMBING
Mark Ellison Plumbing
Call 0431 000 400
Advanced solutions for sewer & stormwater pipe
relining: Upfront price, 25-year warranty.
RUBBISH REMOVAL
Brown Bros Skip Bins
Call 1300 879 688
Local waste management & environmental services
experts. Bins to suit, delivered between 2 & 24
hours. Green footprint.
Jack’s Rubbish Removals
Call Jack 0403 385 312
Up to 45% cheaper than skips. Latest health
regulations. Old-fashioned honesty & reliability.
Free quotes.
One 2 Dump
Call Josh 0450 712 779
Seven-days-a-week pick-up service includes
general household rubbish, construction,
commercial plus vegetation. Also car removals.
UPHOLSTERY
Luxafoam North
Call 0414 468 434
Local specialists in all aspects of outdoor & indoor
seating. Custom service, expert advice.
72 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

Pittwater Puzzler
Compiled by David Stickley
information or entertainment
(8)
20 Permanent skin mark (4)
23 Community theatre group
that will be performing Mr
Bennet’s Bride in July (7,7)
26 Seagrass that is a vital
habitat for marine life in places
like Careel Bay (9)
27 Mode of transport not
available on the Northern
Beaches (5)
28 Of, found in, or produced by
the sea (6)
29 Community building that
provides a space for blokes to
do woodwork and to socially
interact (4,4)
ACROSS
1 Choices available at Pizza
Riccardo no doubt (8)
5 Gemma Rasdall’s new body of
work, Water ______ Only (6)
10 Professional communicator
and Avalon resident, Barry
_____ (5)
11 Northern Beaches suburb
with a picturesque lagoon (9)
12 Taste of the Beaches’ event
at Winnererremy Bay, Mona
Vale, in May (4,5,5)
14 A naturally raised area of
land, not as high as a mountain
(4)
15 An internal telephone
system for communicating
within a building, an aircraft,
etc. (8)
18 Denoting an email address or
a site on the Internet for a nonprofit
organisation (3)
19 The part of the general
public interested in a source of
DOWN
1 In cricket, a designated
substitute player who may field
but not bat or bowl (7,3)
2 Watched out for people
getting into trouble in the surf
(9)
3 Catch fire (6)
4 Great intelligence (6)
6 Pantomime games (8)
7 Select by vote (5)
8 Make-up of a beach (4)
9 Slowing down (7)
13 Locked up (10)
15 Anger; rage (3)
16 A track designed for people
riding bicycles (9)
17 Restricted or restrained (6,2)
18 A fluty-toned wind
instrument, originally of
terracotta, egg-shaped, with a
long mouthpiece (7)
21 A revised computer program
or bulletin (6)
22 Carrier with a kangaroo logo
(6)
24 Sailing class (5)
25 Unwanted e-mail (4)
[Solution page 80]
Pittwater Puzzler
The Local Voice Since 1991
MAY 2022 73

Food Life
with Janelle Bloom
Simply sizzling! What's not
to love about a 'fancy' fry?
I
blame the cooler weather for my twice-fried
chips, crunchy onion rings and schnitzel
cravings – so putting together this story for
you was oh so much fun! I am not an air fryer
owner but many of my friends are, so I have
included some air fryer tips. While all these
dishes are yummy and awesome ‘comfort
food’, it’s important to remember fried food
is no good for our health; it’s an ‘occasional
food’ to be consumed in moderation.
Salt and
Pepper Squid
(Serves 4)
800g cleaned baby squid, cut
into pieces
1 tbs cornflour
3 tbs sea salt flakes, crushed
3 tsp ground hot Szechuan
pepper
vegetable oil, for deep frying
lemon wedges or Sriracha
mayonnaise, to serve
Beer batter
1¼ cups plain flour
½ tsp baking powder
375ml bottle chilled lager-style
beer (such as Carlton Crown
Lager)
Food Life
Recipes: janellebloom.com.au; facebook.com/culinaryinbloom; instagram.com/janellegbloom/ Photos: Adobe Stock
Tempura
vegetables
(Serves 4)
2 litres vegetable oil
Sweet potato slices, green
beans, asparagus, broccolini,
shiitake mushrooms, sliced
eggplant and sliced zucchini
Soy sauce mixed with chopped
green onion, to serve
Tempura batter
½ cup plain flour, plus extra
for dusting
½ cup gluten free cornflour
1 egg
1 cup soda water
5 ice cubes
1. For the tempura batter, if
time permits, sift the flours
together into a bowl. Cover
and place in the freezer for
1 hour to chill (if you don’t
have time, that’s ok).
2. Heat the oil in a wok, deep
fryer or large saucepan
over medium heat until it
reaches 170°C. Dust the
vegetables lightly in the
extra plain flour.
3. Combine the egg and soda
water in a medium bowl,
whisk lightly with a fork.
Add the combined chilled
flours and stir with chop
sticks until just combined
(the batter should remain
lumpy). Add the ice cubes
and stir gently.
4. Dip 6-8 vegetable pieces
in the batter, one at
a time to lightly coat,
allowing the excess to
drain. Lower into the oil
and fry for 2-3 minutes or
until lightly golden and
cooked through. Use a
slotted spoon, transfer to
a wire rack over the large
baking tray. Repeat with
the remaining vegetables.
Serve with the soy dipping
sauce.
Janelle’s Tips: Green prawns
or small pieces of fresh white
fish also work well in tempura
batter. Also, I like to slice the
sweet potato with the skin on,
place in on a plate, cover with
paper towel and microwave
a few minutes until almost
tender, then cool before
dipping in the batter.
1. Pat the squid dry with plenty
of paper towel. Combine the
cornflour, salt and Szechuan
pepper together in a large
snap lock bag.
2. Add enough vegetable oil in
a wok, deep fryer or large
saucepan until a third-full.
Heat to 190°C or until a
cube of bread dropped
into oil turns brown in 15
seconds.
3. To make the beer batter,
combine the flour, baking
powder and salt in a large
74 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

For more recipes go to janellebloom.com.au
bowl. Make a well in the
centre. Pour in the beer and
whisk until smooth.
4. Add the squid to the saltand-pepper
mix, secure
the bag and shake until
well coated. Dip one-third
of the squid, one at a time,
into the beer batter to
evenly coat, then straight
into the hot oil.
5. Deep-fry for 2-3 minutes
or until crisp, golden and
cooked through.
6. Transfer to a wire rack over
a large baking tray. Repeat
to cook the remaining
squid, reheating the oil
between batches.
7. Serve with lemon or Sriracha
mayonnaise.
Air fryer
Spring Rolls
(Makes 20)
2 tbs peanut oil
2 cups finely shredded
wombok (Chinese cabbage)
1 large carrot, peeled,
shredded
4 medium cup mushrooms,
finely chopped
80g green beans, topped,
finely chopped
4 green shallots, trimmed,
finely chopped
230g can water chestnuts,
drained, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, crushed
1 cup bean sprouts, trimmed
1 tbs oyster sauce
2 tsp soy sauce
The Local Voice Since 1991
2 tbs cornflour
2 tbs water
20 (20cm x 20cm) spring-roll
wrappers/pastry, just thawed
Olive oil cooking spray
1. Heat the peanut oil in
a large non-stick frying
pan over medium-high
heat. Add the wombok,
carrot, mushrooms, beans,
shallots, water chestnuts
and garlic and cook,
stirring, for 2 minutes or
until just tender.
2. Add the bean sprouts,
oyster sauce and soy and
cook, stirring, for 1 minute
or until just heated through.
Remove mixture to a
heatproof bowl. Season.
3. Combine the cornflour and
water in a small bowl to
form a paste.
4. Place 1 spring roll wrapper,
with one corner facing
you on a clean board.
Spoon about ¼ cup of
the vegetables diagonally
across the centre, leaving
a 3cm border at each end.
Fold in ends and roll up
tightly, just before you
finish rolling, brush a little
cornflour paste on the final
corner and roll to enclose
filling. Transfer to a plate.
Repeat with remaining
pastry, vegetables and
cornflour mixture.
5. Spray the air fryer basket
and the spring rolls all
over with olive oil. Cook, in
batches (this depends on
the size of your air fryer –
don’t overcrowd the basket
though) for 15 minutes on
200°C, turning them over
after eight minutes or until
golden. Serve with sweet
and sour sauce.
Janelle’s Tip: Of course, these
can be oven-baked, by placing
onto a wire rack and cooking
at 230C for 10-12 minutes
until golden or deep fried!
Ham and Cheese
Croquettes
Makes 24
80g butter, chopped
½ cup plain flour
2 cups full cream milk
1 cup grated tasty cheese
½ cup (40g) finely grated
parmesan
3 green shallots, finely
chopped
200g ham or prosciutto, finely
chopped
2 tbs chopped parsley
3 eggs
3 cups (280g) dried panko
breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil, for frying
1. Melt the butter in a
saucepan over medium
MAY 2022 75
Food Life

Food Life
Food Life
heat. Add the flour, cook,
stirring for two minutes.
Remove from heat. Slowly
pour in the milk, whisking
with a balloon whisk until
the sauce is smooth.
2. Return to the heat, cook,
stirring with a wooden
spoon until the sauce comes
to the boil and thickens.
Remove from the heat. Stir
in the tasty and parmesan
cheese, green shallots, ham
and parsley. Season well.
Transfer to a bowl, press a
sheet wrap onto the surface
and place in the fridge 3-4
hours until cold.
3. Whisk the eggs together
in a wide shallow dish.
Place the breadcrumbs in
another shallow dish. Shape
heaped tablespoonfuls of
mixture into logs. Dip in
the egg then roll in crumbs,
pressing the crumbs on with
your fingertips. Place in a
single layer onto a tray lined
with baking paper. Chill for
1 hour.
4. Pour enough vegetable
oil in a large frying pan
until one-third full. Heat
to 190°C or until a cube
of bread dropped into oil
turns brown in 15 seconds.
Shallow fry the croquettes
for five minutes, turning
until golden and crisp. Use
a slotted spoon to transfer
the croquettes to a wire
rack over a large baking
tray. Keep warm in the oven
while cooking the remaining
croquettes. Season and
serve with tomato sauce
for dipping, or they are
delicious with smoked
paprika mayonnaise.
Janelle’s Tip: Croquettes can
be cooked in the air fryer,
spray then with olive oil
and cook on 200°C, turning
halfway until golden.
Cinnamon donuts
(Makes 24)
3/4 cup full cream milk,
warmed
1 tbs caster sugar
Good pinch crushed sea salt
flakes
1 tsp instant dried yeast
2 egg yolks
40g butter, melted
1½ cups plain flour, sifted
1 tbs ground cinnamon
½ cup white sugar
Vegetable oil, for frying
1. Combine the milk sugar,
salt and yeast in a medium
bowl. Stir until the yeast is
dissolved. Stir in the egg
yolks and butter. Gradually
add the flour, mixing to form
a smooth batter. Cover with
plastic wrap and a clean tea
towel. Set aside in a warm,
draught-free place for 45
minutes or until doubled in
size.
2. Combine cinnamon and
sugar in a shallow dish.
3. Punch the dough down then
stir with a wooden spoon
until the dough is smooth.
4. Add enough vegetable oil in
a wok, deep fryer or large
saucepan until one-third
full. Heat to 180°C or until
a cube of bread dropped
into oil turns brown in 15
seconds.
5. Drop small spoonfuls of
batter into the oil. Cook,
turning, for three minutes
or until golden and cooked
through. Use a slotted
spoon to remove the donuts
from the oil and add to the
cinnamon sugar. Turn to
coat the donuts. Repeat to
cook the remaining donuts,
reheating the oil between
batches.
76 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

Tasty Morsels
Tiny Morsels for May
Buttery eggs way
down in Kokomo
Kokomo House brings that touch of
Scandi coastal styling to Mona Vale’s
industrial heartland. This newish
venue serves Single O coffee, smashed
avo with chilli and lime and apparently
the “… best buttery soft scrambled
eggs on the beaches”. Sourdough toast
is a must, and bread comes from local
artisan bakery Berkelo.
with Beverley Hudec
Please sir, I want
some Momo!
Dumpling fans take note: Momo Bar
has just opened its fourth eatery,
in Avalon. These Tibetan-style
dumplings come in a variety of ways
including a Nepalese bowl topped
with Achaar sauce and paprika butter.
Momo also has build-your-own tasty
salad bowls. The Aloha bowl and Tiki
bowl are crowd-pleasers.
Post-surf dishes
to really Relish
Tucked away in North Avalon’s
side streets, you’ll find a
local haunt with a little bit
of everything. Breakfast at
Cafe Relish is big. There’s
everything from classic
eggs Benedict to grilled
halloumi with salsa verde on
sourdough. Hungry after a
surf? Try one of the pulled
pork burgers with homemade
barbecue sauce and chipotle.
Grab a Boathouse
cup of good cheer
When it’s not raining, Boathouse
Bakery and its pot-filled courtyard is
a pretty coffee spot up in Palm Beach.
The simple menu offers staples for
breakfast and burgers, salads and
baguettes for lunch. Wander inside and
window-shop the homewares where
there’s a Boathouse bamboo cup for
your next coffee to go.
Tasty Dining Morsels Guide
The Local Voice Since 1991
Three of a kind: Indian
Traditionally, dhabas are casual
roadside food stalls across
the subcontinent. Mona Vale’s
newest Indian restaurant, Mitran
Da Dharba, brings a lot more
glamour, a riot of colour and an
aromatic spice cupboard to the
beaches. This new Indian has an
extensive menu of popular dishes
including onion bhaji, beef korma
and chicken tikka.
The signature dish at Curry
By the Curve (pictured left) is
butter chicken. The not-so-secret
ingredients are cashew, ground
whole spices and a little honey.
It’s also the Avalon takeaway’s
most popular dish. A third of all
orders are for butter chicken.
Beef vindaloo ramps up the heat
factor, but it can be made spicy
or mild according to taste.
There are no surprises when it
comes to The Cheer Factory’s
most popular dish. It’s butter
chicken, what else could it be? The
lamb rogan josh also comes highly
recommended. This North Indian
curry is cooked with tomatoes and
a lot of spices so it’s aromatic,
not hot. Order one with dal tadka,
lentils seasoned and tempered
with butter, and a naan.
MAY 2022 77

Garden Life
with Gabrielle Bryant
Garden Life
Colourful ideas to put a smile
on faces this Mother’s Day
The second Sunday in
May is the day to value
the love and devotion
of all Mothers – whether it
be your Mum or someone
else’s. A day to make sure that
no mother feels left out or
unappreciated.
Flowers are the perfect way
to bring colour and happiness
into the day. Chrysanthemums
have always been a traditional
favourite. The huge fluffy
flowers in all the autumn
colours of white, yellow,
bronze or burgundy.
These old-fashioned
chrysanthemums are hard to
grow in the garden and once
finished it is hard to make
them ever look quite the same
again. The leaves die down
in Winter and they wait until
next year to flower again,
so why not take note of the
smaller-flowered varieties that
are grown for mass planting
or as potted colour that
are available now in garden
centres.
Once the flowers finish,
cut the plants back and plant
them in the full sun in the
garden. As Spring warms up
they will grow back to flower
again through the autumn
months.
Cyclamen (right centre)
come in all sizes, from the
tiny rock size of just a few
centimetres tall, to the large
flamboyant plants that will fill
a 200mm pot. Cyclamen love
the colder night air and night
time dew that settles in the
early hours of the morning.
To keep them flowering, put
them out at night and keep
them away from heaters that
will dry the air.
Then there are the orchids
that need little care, just a
weekly soaking to keep them
happy.
African violets may be
harder to find, as they are
not considered trendy, but
older mums will love them
nostalgically if you can find
one: elatior begonias in full
flower, that with proper care
will flower for many months,
given regular fertiliser and
very bright light.
Moth orchids, scarlet
anthuriums, proteas or the
colourful pots of Autumnflowering
dahlias (above),
native grevilleas or bunches
of flowering gum are always
a winner. If your budget is
tight, pot up a selection of $2
potted colour with pansies,
violas, vincas, sunflowers,
dianthus or daisies.
Whatever is available will be
colourful and bright. For an
added touch, under-plant with
a packet of Spring-flowering
bulbs. After Mother’s Day, if
it goes back into the garden,
this pot will keep on flowering
through Winter and bring
spring colour when the
weather warms up.
78 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

Colour
and variety
on Show
If you did not attend this year, you should
mark in your diary for April next year
the Collectors Plant Fair at Hawkesbury
Racecourse. It should be compulsory for
every plant lover and gardener, whether a
beginner or an old hand!
Every year there is something new
to find or learn about. This year, the
number of orchid stands and tropical
plant growers astounded me. All the plants that are for sale are
suitable for our warmer sub-climate on the Pittwater peninsular.
I have known about the orchids in the bulbophyllum family
(below) but I had never seen one in flower. There were two at
the show, called Lovely Elizabeth and Elizabeth Ann. This tiny
delicate flower always reminds me of Snugglepot and Cuddlepie
sleeping in the folds of the yellow
flower I am waiting to see open.
Further on I found a variegated
Campelia the Mexican flag plant
(right + above), although it is
related to the spectacular Blue
Ginger (dichorisandra); once
described as a ginger, as it
grows tall with additional canes
developing from the ground, this
plant is now described as part of
the tradescantia family. I am yet
to see the flower that is white with
scarlet edges. It is a plant that
is grown in Europe as an indoor
plant and its flowers are not
considered important.
Sasanquas Parvalimba
Camellia sasanquas make
the best boundary hedges.
They may be slow to grow
but unlike the faster-growing
murrayas, viburnums and
lilly pillies, they are a hedge
that will last for generations
without becoming woody and
unattractive.
All sasanquas are suitable
but some are smaller-leaved
and more upright than
others. The newest and one
of the best on the market is
Sasanqua parvalimba. This
newly released sasanqua
is grown in Australia by
Camellias are Us in Galston
exclusively.
The leaves are small and
compact, with tiny white
pendulous flowers. It will
grow to five metres high if
not trimmed. It is the best
possible hedging plant. Its
growth is tall and narrow
The Local Voice Since 1991
and compact; these columnshaped
plants will remain
narrow, making it perfect
for hedging, or to be grown
beside the fence along the
side path next to the fence.
Trim to the desired height.
MAY 2022 79
Garden Life

Garden Life
Garden Life
Jobs this Month
May
Move cymbidium orchids
into good light. They
are beginning to make
flower spikes and need bright
light or winter sun to develop
the buds. You have waited
for a year for the spikes to
develop, don’t let marauding
snails destroy them overnight.
Protect your flower spikes
with Multiguard snail bait.
Also, plant Spring-flowering
bulbs now that the weather
has cooled down. If you are
planting them into pots, use
bulb fibre potting mix for the
best results. Over-plant with
some cheerful pansy, viola
or alyssum seedlings to grow
while you are waiting for the
bulbs to appear. This does not
inhibit the growth of the bulbs.
Bulb advice
If you are buying bulbs this
month, make sure that the
bulbs are firm to touch. Any
bulbs that are beginning to
shoot or that are soft will not
grow well. Even if they are
reduced don’t buy them.
Feed citrus
Last chance to feed citrus
trees before Winter! Citruses
need good drainage. Young
plants should be protected.
Any damaged shoots from the
weather should be removed.
Eco neem and Eco oil mixed
together as a fortnightly spray
will help protect against leaf
miner and citrus bugs.
Avoid root rot
While wet weather continues
gardens suffer. Not much can
be done about plants in the
garden, but you can protect
plants in pots by removing the
saucers and making sure that
drainage is good. Pots should
be lifted onto feet to make
sure that the soil doesn’t get
waterlogged. Cold wet roots
will rot.
Compost tips
Autumn is the time to fill your
compost bins; fallen leaves
make wonderful compost. Water
with GoGo Juice to help the
compost break down. Keep a
bin in the kitchen to save veggie
scraps and invest in a paper
shredder. These things all break
down into great compost. Never
add any meat, egg, fish or dairy
scraps to your bin. These things
attract rats and mice. Water with
GoGo Juice to help the compost
break down.
Tree focus
A garden without any
deciduous trees gives Summer
shade but without Winter sun
can lack the excitement of
Support sweet peas
Sweet Peas are shooting up.
Make sure that they have
something strong to climb up.
A bamboo tripod wrapped with
chicken wire or wound with
string works well. A lattice on
the fence or an archway makes a
good base.
the changing seasons. Check
out the trees around that
are losing their leaves. Next
month the garden centres
will be full of bare trees and
shrubs. Make a note of the
trees around that give autumn
colour, so that when you are
confronted with a display of
bare branches you will know
which tree to buy.
Sweet potatoes
Remove all the veggies that
have suffered in the rains and
prepare for Winter veggies.
Sweet potatoes have gone
mad with all the wet weather.
Dig them up now to see your
harvest. Each plant should
produce 5-7 tubers. Dig
carefully with a garden fork
to protect the sweet potatoes
from damage. Many growers
say to wait for flowers before
harvesting, but many plants
never flower! Leave the
harvested tubers in the sun
to heal for several hours then
store them in a dry location
for 14 days to allow the sugars
to develop before cooking.
Sweet potatoes will store for
several weeks if necessary.
Winter vegies
Before you plant Winter crops
of peas, broccolini, spinach,
silver beet and other winter
veggies, turn the soil and add
plenty of compost, a wetting
agent, a complete fertiliser
and a dressing of super
phosphate. Good preparation
now will be well repaid at
harvest time! Water in new
seedlings with Seasol.
Attract bees
Vegetables need the bees to
fertilise the flowers. Leave some
space in the vegetable garden
for flower seedlings. Primula,
pansies, marigolds, sweet
William, stock, nasturtiums
and snap dragons will attract
the bees. If there are not many
bees around, spray the plants
with Bee Keeper, and they will
soon appear.
Remember this…
Flanders Poppies planted this
month will flower in time for
Armistice Day on November
11. The scarlet flowers with
black centres are an amazing
addition to any garden.
Crossword solution from page 73
Mystery location: TAYLORS POINT
80 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991

Times Past
Although called the
Palm Beach District
Cricket Club, from
1933 its games were played
on ‘Careel Bay Park’ –
approximately the site of the
present tennis court complex
and car park and adjacent to
the later Hitchcock Park.
The clubhouse was later
moved to the present site of
the North Palm Beach Surf
Club, where it became the
Palm Beach Kindergarten
and on the weekends was
occupied by the surf club.
Prior to this (and for a brief
time) the kindergarten
appears to have occupied
the caretaker’s cottage in the
camping area, paying rent to
the Warringah Shire Council
(WSC) for the privilege.
According to the ‘Avalon
News’, the kindergarten was
officially opened by Mr P.C.
Spender, M.H.R. on 3 October
1948. The number of pupils
had to be limited to 25, with
a charge of five shillings (50
cents) weekly per child.
A full-time trained
kindergarten teacher was
placed in charge, along
with a domestic assistant
and the latest kindergarten
equipment. Fruit and a
daily half-pint of milk was
provided, with the promise
of a cooked midday meal
“… in a modern all-electric
kitchen”. WSC subsidised the
building costs with the sum
of 250 pounds ($500) and
an upright baby grand was
bought with funds raised by
a committee.
Funds were raised from
several sources. The Palm
Beach Kindergarten joined
with The Spastic Centre from
Mosman for a gala fishing
and entertainment day in
September 1949. Later that
same year, deep-sea fishing
launches left Palm Beach
wharf at 6am and luncheon
was later served in a marquee
in the park. The first annual
ball was held in the same
month at the Pasadena at
Church Point; tickets were
available by ringing Mrs
Harold Daniell on Palm Beach
181.
Until a small toilet block
was built adjacent to the
kindergarten, there was only
one chemical toilet in the
room. Ages of the children
ranged from two and a half
years to six years and many
of them lived permanently
in the camping area which
occupied almost all of the
present Governor Phillip
Park .
Large sheets of butcher’s
paper and large brushes were
used for painting, although
“… finger painting was
never allowed – all paints
have chemicals and may be
harmful” according to one
GROWING UP: The original cricket club
building now relocated in camping area at
Palm Beach, circa 1950s (main); the present
day kindy adjacent to Iluka Park (above);
aerial showing caretaker’s cottage on left
(probably Dunes Kiosk now) and the area
to the right where the cricket club building
was located adjacent to the beach.
Early days of Palm Beach kindy
of the early teachers, Rose
Baldwin.
After the opening of
Avalon Public School in 1951,
Rose made mention of the
generosity of the headmaster
Les McGuire and his
encouragement of visits by
those pupils nearing primary
school age.
The present building, the
Palm Beach War Memorial
Kindergarten, was designed
by Mr Peter Mueller and was
officially opened on 25 July
1959 by Mr Goodall, Chairman
of Trustees, apparently with
a complete coverage by ABN
Channel 2 TV.
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
MAY 2022 81

Travel Life
Travel Life
Mediterranean’s authentic beauty
Far-journeyed Travel View consultant
Sharon Godden says that if you’ve ever
wanted to live like a local in the Mediterranean,
then a Silversea luxury cruise is the
way to do it.
“What makes sailing this region with
Silversea so special? Three words,” says
Sharon. “Unparalleled… destination…
knowledge!
“No-one understands the Mediterranean
better – Silversea’s itineraries deliver the
ideal balance of hot spots and hidden
gems, perfect for those who really want to
experience the authenticity of the Mediterranean.”
Sharon says that from the moment you’re
welcomed aboard to the final champagne
toast goodbye, your voyage will unfold with
a seamless perfection.
“You’ll enjoy one of the highest spaceper-guest
ratios at sea and the pleasures of
finely appointed suites featuring expansive
ocean views and lavish amenities,” she says.
“What’s more, Silversea’s personalised
butler service allows guest to indulge –
attending to everything from unpacking
luggage to serving a private breakfast, handling
laundry requests, and shining shoes
before dinner.”
Silversea’s Mediterranean cruises present
a wide array of voyage lengths, while extensive
stays grant in-depth access to the most
iconic destinations.
“Explore more than 100 intriguing
destinations and enjoy more than 35 overnights
amidst the Mediterranean’s beguiling
coasts. Silversea’s ultra-luxury ships
transport you to big cities like Istanbul and
Barcelona, as well as tiny ports.”
Their Mediterranean shore program
offers small-group tours, pre- and postcruise
land adventures, and custom private
excursions. Guests can step away from the
tourist sites and explore bistros, basilicas,
and beaches only known to locals.
“Retrace the footsteps of Roman gladiators,
Greek Olympians, French poets, and
Spanish artists known the world over,”
Sharon said. “You’ll also have the chance
to attend world-renowned events while in
port, including the Monaco Grand Prix.”
Silversea’s innovative food program, SALT
(Sea and Land Taste), allows you to experience
the true spirit of each destination you
visit, for the most immersive and in-depth
travel possible. Available on Silver Moon
and Silver Dawn SALT. was designed in collaboration
with celebrated culinary expert
and journalist Adam Sachs; it integrates
food, culture and your destination like never
before, as you engage with the people and
flavours of each and every place you visit.
“Savour exciting new SALT shore experiences,
says Sharon. “This means you could
be travelling into the hinterland of Heraklion
in order to experience the heart and
soul of Greek organic cooking. Or lunching
with a vineyard owner in Sicily.
“These in-depth and informative shore
excursions are accompanied by their food
experts, who are adapt at explaining the
intricacies of local cuisine.”
*Travel View invites you to explore the
Mediterranean with Silversea at their
exclusive dining event on Wednesday 11
May at Bistro Boulevard Avalon (see ad
below). Call 9918 4444.
82 MAY 2022
The Local Voice Since 1991