Pittwater Life May 2025 Issue

The Local Voice Since 1991

MAY 2025

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pittwaterlife

2025 ELECTION PREVIEW

CANDIDATES IN BATTLE FOR MACKELLAR DELIVER THEIR PITCH

HOSPITAL AUDIT SHOCK / PHILANTHROPIST DEBORAH KILLELEA

THE WAY WE WERE / HOT PROPERTY / SEEN... HEARD... ABSURD...

Editorial

NB Hospital solution needed

The political points scoring

over Northern Beaches

Hospital must stop. Instead the

focus must be to find a costeffective

solution that fulfills

the community’s expectations

for the delivery of high-quality

public health services.

The NSW Government and

our politicians are playing a

blame game, with patients,

doctors, nurses and staff at the

hospital, as well as the broader

community, left to suffer.

It’s clear from the findings of

the recent audit of the hospital

that something has to give.

The NSW Government is accusing

operator Healthscope of

trying to negotiate a big cheque

in return for handing back the

public portion of NBH.

Local MPs are calling for public

return – but not at a cost.

Tapping into PM Albo’s attempt

to connect with youth:

They are all “delulu”.

Health Minister Ryan Park

admits the Government

knocked back a 2023 request

from Healthscope to return the

hospital because it would have

cost taxpayers “hundreds of

millions of dollars”.

Mr Park is low-balling it: it

would cost up to $1 billion to

exit the contract now instead

of running through 2038. And

overnight the Government

would then have to fund it.

It’s clear the deed structured

and signed by the former Liberal

Government is not working.

That’s in large part because the

Government is not required to

integrate NBH into the broader

public health system.

It shouldn’t be ‘black’ and

‘white’. The Government and

Healthscope should revisit the

deed and find equitable terms.

It could be as simple as integrating

into the public system

(user-pays cost to Healthscope)

and agreeing on increased

staffing levels. Not a sell-off, or

a stalemate. A win-win.

Or am I “delulu”? – Nigel Wall


MAY 2025 3

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Publisher: Nigel Wall

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Contributors: Rob Pegley,

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Vol 35 No 10

Celebrating 34 years

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MAY 2025

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pittwaterlife

2025 ELECTION PREVIEW

CANDIDATES IN BATTLE FOR MACKELLAR DELIVER THEIR PITCH

HOSPITAL AUDIT SHOCK / PHILANTHROPIST DEBORAH KILLELEA

THE WAY WE WERE / HOT PROPERTY / SEEN... HEARD... ABSURD...

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thislife

INSIDE: The findings of the independent audit of Northern

Beaches Hospital have been revealed (p8); Lucky & Pep’s

pizza maker Andrew Auricchio is hanging up his apron

after more than 40 years (p11); Monash Country Club

celebrates its 75th anniversary (p14); Northside Emergency

Veterinary Service at Terrey Hills is throwing a birthday

party (p14); meet the main candidates running in Mackellar

in the Federal Election (p30); and our Life Stories subject is

Newport philanthropist Deborah Killelea AM (p42).

COVER: Darwinia Citriodora / Julie Hickson

also this month

Editorial 3

Pittwater Local News & Features 8-41

Sideline Eye 24-25

The Way We Were 26-27

Seen... Heard... Absurd 28

2025 Federal Election Preview 30-36

Community News 38-41

Life Stories: Deborah Killelea AM 42-45

Hot Property 46

Health & Wellbeing; Hair & Beauty 48-53

Money 54-55

Trades & Services / Classifieds 56-59

Food & Tasty Morsels 60-61

Gardening 64-66

* The complete Pittwater Life archive

can be found at the State Library of NSW.

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MAY 2025 The Local Voice Since 1991

News

Minns Govt rejected hospital

Northern Beaches Hospital

operator Healthscope

twice asked the NSW

Minns Government to take

back the public portion of the

facility in late 2023 – but was

knocked back by the Government,

an independent audit of

the hospital has revealed.

The NSW Auditor General’s

report released in April said

Healthscope approached the

Government in November 2023

and again in December 2023 to

wind back the deed agreement

14 years early.

Healthscope had noted it was

concerned about the risk to the

viability of the hospital, citing

insufficient funding, a lack

of integration into the wider

health network, and strained

stakeholder relationships.

While acknowledging that

NSW Health effectively managed

the contract with Healthscope

day-to-day on behalf of

the State, the audit concluded:

“The project deed, which governs

the partnership (signed by

the former Coalition Government

in 2018), does not support

the hospital’s integration into

the local health district and

broader health network.

“This has an impact on

patient journeys and access

to services for patients in the

Northern Beaches.

“Additionally, Healthscope

has no obligation or commitment

to implement NSW Health

initiatives – such as the Safe

Staffing Levels initiative.”

Last September two-year-old

Joe Massa died after being left

in the emergency department

for more than two hours despite

displaying signs of a lifethreatening

condition; and in

February this year, couple Leah

Pitman and Dustin Atkinson

lost their newborn Harper.

In March, Premier Chris

Minns announced legislation

(known as ‘Joe’s Law’) to ban

future public-private partnerships

from being imposed on

acute public hospitals.

After the audit’s release on

April 17 Joe’s mother Elouise

said she had not been aware of

AUDIT FINDINGS: Northern Beaches Hospital.

Healthscope’s 2023 request.

“Would Joe be alive had the

Government taken a more active

role? I am not sure of the

answers. However, these are

questions we will be asking of

the Government,” she said.

In early April, Healthscope

repeated its offer to negotiate

the return of the public portion

of the hospital; this prompted

NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey

to announce a Taskforce to

examine next steps including a

possible takeover.

Meanwhile, Health Minister

Ryan Park said the Government

rejected Healthscope’s 2023

“offers” because it would have

cost NSW taxpayers “hundreds

of millions of dollars”.

Mackellar MP Dr Sophie

Scamps said: “It’s clear what

needs to happen – we now have

an independent audit of the

hospital recommending it be

returned to public hands and

the private operator admitting

that it’s better for patients, the

staff and our community.

“The State Government has

an urgent duty of care to reassure

our community and the

staff at NBH that they are in

safe hands and take the necessary

steps to acquire the public

hospital.”

Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby

said the Government Taskforce

was an important step to get

8 MAY 2025


return in 2023

the hospital back into public

hands and “protect public

patients and taxpayers from

being taken advantage of by

Healthscope”.

“We need clear scrutiny of...

how it will improve services,

and whether taxpayers are getting

a fair deal,” she said.

Ms Scruby also urged members

of the public to make submissions

on their experiences

at the hospital prior to May 20,

before the public hearings of

the parliamentary inquiry commenced.

Labor candidate for Mackellar

Jeffrey Quinn said: “Any potential

transition of the public

portion of NBH to government

operation must be conducted

transparently, with proper due

diligence, and without propping

up private profit.

Healthscope CEO Tino La

Spina said the audit report

was further confirmation that

the continued operation of the

public hospital component of

NBH under a public/private

partnership model was severely

challenged, and no longer compatible

with the NSW Government’s

policy objectives.

He added Healthscope accepted

most of the findings

in the audit and was actively

addressing the areas identified

for improvement.

He noted the report also

confirmed NBH continued to

meet or exceed national quality

standards, often outperforming

NSW public hospital peers.

“The report also confirms

the strong day-to-day performance

of our people in core

areas of care,” he said.

“This has been further supported

by NSW Health’s review

of the Emergency Department,

finding it compliant against all

eight criteria investigated.

“Our priority now is to

ensure continuity of care for

patients and stability for staff.

“I want to reiterate that patient

care will be put first, and

we are not seeking any windfall

gain.”

– Nigel Wall

*What do you think? Tell us at

readers@pittwaterlife.com.au

News


MAY 2025 9

Success comes in waves

News

Avalon resident and award-winning

Australian cinematographer Tim

Bonython has made a career out

of filming big wave surfers in his unique

style; while a dozen cameramen sit up

on the hill, he is on a jet-ski dangerously

recording from the water.

In May Tim will be touring Australia

with his latest project Maya and the

Wave, in which he was lead cameraman

for director Stephanie Johnes. The

award-winning documentary features

world champion surfer Maya Gabeira

as she returns to Portugal’s notorious

Nazaré break, to surf the biggest wave a

woman had ever conquered.

As Tim recounts, he first saw Maya

surfing Nazaré via a live broadcast on

Swellnet – that ended in dramatic consequences

for Maya.

“I’d heard about Nazaré and that there

was a huge swell coming, so I’m watching

on my laptop in Australia and see this tiny

person being towed in,” recalls Tim. “And

then they just get wiped out and the jet ski

is in there trying to find her. It turns out

that she’d lost consciousness and they end

up giving her CPR on the beach.

“And I’m watching all of this unfold on

my laptop!”

Tim was so intrigued that he went to

investigate – and ended up becoming a

resident. Unlike many surf characters

who chase the summer, Tim spends his

life following the winter months.

“I went in 2015 and basically fell in love

with the place. Back then it was a ghost

town in winter and the shops and restaurants

would all close for a few months. It

just intrigued me; and my wife Sandrine

is French, so it’s near to her family. We

bought a place by the church overlooking

the town.

“Now it’s incredibly popular with surfers

as it’s got the biggest waves in the world –

Hawaii is about the only other place like it.

And it’s only one 9-hour flight from Rio,

so lots of Brazilians go. We go there every

year, from October to March.”

MONSTER: Maya Gabeira on her record-setting

wave at Nazare in Portugal.

BATTERED: Tim after his accident in Spain.

To get a sense of just how big the waves

are, Tim talks me through the best spots

on the Northern Beaches and how they

compare.

“There’s a place between Long Reef and

Dee Why called German Bank, and then

there’s Deadmans at Fairy Bower that can

be big. A place at Avalon called Avericks,

named after Mavericks in California. North

Narrabeen, Newport, North Steyne… they

can all have waves up to 20 feet, it depends

on the wind and the power.”

But the waves at Nazaré? They can be

up to 100 feet – the height of a four-storey

building.

“You get a 30-foot swell travelling all

the way down from Greenland, and it hits

the underwater canyon and pushes out of

that,” Tim says.

Having previously cheated death,

Brazilian big wave surfer Maya Gabeira –

daughter of legendary activist Fernando

Gabeira – faced a gruelling recovery from

three spinal surgeries before she could

surf again. She also faced disrespect and

outright abuse from the male surfing

community who disregarded her accomplishments.

But on January 18, 2018, she returned

to Nazaré during an unprecedented storm

to surf “her” wave.

For Pittwater audiences, the nearest

showing is at the Cremorne Orpheum on

Tuesday 6 May, while Randwick Ritz on

May 7, and Avoca Picture Theatre on May

11 are also possibilities.

Tim will be answering questions before

the film along with the director Stephanie.

He is also in the process of getting a

new Sony camera and a waterproof housing

for it, after he and his equipment were

smashed on rocks in Spain, doing what he

loves best.

“It’s everything I live for,” says Tim. “I

live the experience as much as the surfer.

I’m documenting historic moments and I

want to make them look as cinematic and

dramatic as I can.” – Rob Pegley

*More info surfingvisions.com

10 MAY 2025


Andrew’s got pizza(zz)

If you’ve had a pizza from

Beaches institution Lucky and

Pep’s in the past 40 years,

chances are that it was made by

Andrew Auricchio – but now he’s

ready to hang up his apron.

On Saturday 26 April, Andrew

will send out his last pizza. At a

rough calculation it might be pizza

number four million that he will

oversee leaving the kitchen. Some

2000 pizzas a week are made at the

Newport institution and Andrew

has been there for 40 years (15 as

the venue’s second-generation owner).

We did the math, as they say.

Add to that the fact Andrew

was making pizzas for 10 years

before he and his brother arrived

at Lucky’s and it’s an even bigger

total. Some 50 years of making pizzas,

starting as a 15-year-old at La

Casa, opposite the wharf in Manly,

back in 1975.

And he’s enjoyed every one of

those millions of pizzas.

“I love my job,” says the master

pizza maker. “I try to make the

customers happy and that makes

me happy.”

Humble and unassuming, Andrew is loved by the community

and his colleagues. His boss at Lucky’s Waheed ‘Will’ Baluch

can’t speak highly enough of him.

“I’ve worked with Andrew five or six days a week for the past

25 years and he’s been like a father figure to me,” says Will. “I

was only 20 years old when I came here and he’s been my mentor.

He’s watched me like a hawk to make sure I do things the

traditional way.

“Andrew is the kind of person you don’t come across often in

life,” Will continues. “A man of quiet strength, endless reliability,

and unwavering heart. The kind of colleague you trust without

question, who shows up early, stays late, and gives everything he

has. Not because he has to, but because it’s simply who he is.”

Andrew and his brother Angelo bought Lucky and Pep’s in

1985 from Lucky himself, who had started the restaurant in

1979. When Will took over the restaurant 25 years ago, Andrew

stayed on in the kitchen.

HOME BASE: The

traditional pizza

dough toss.

EARLY DAYS:

Andrew (second

from right) in

1979.

“We have customers come in who say

that Andrew served them a pizza on their

first date and now they’re bringing in their

grandchildren,” says Will. “Three generations

have loved the pizzas Andrew has

made for them.”

Part of Andrew’s secret is that he works

hard to find the right produce, he marinates

the meats, makes the dough, makes

the sauces and continues years of tradition.

For his well-deserved break, Andrew

intends to spend time with his brother

Angelo in Adelaide, before returning and

plotting his next move.

Will is hoping that’s a bit of consultancy

work with him.

“We’d love him to come in a couple of

days a week and keep checking on us,”

says Will.

In his absence Andrew has three pizza

makers ready to take

the baton, who he has

trained over the past 18

months. General manager

Milica has also been at

Lucky’s for 11 years and

makes sure traditions are

upheld. Lucky’s will be

losing its main man, but

remains in good hands.

Clearly a huge fan, Will

ends with a tribute to the

man who has been like a second father to him.

“In today’s world, it’s rare to find someone so deeply dedicated

to their craft, so committed to showing up day after day with

the same passion and care. Over time, Andrew has become more

than a man behind the counter. He’s become an institution. A

legend.”

“You’ve given us more than just great pizza. You’ve given us a

piece of yourself. And that gift will never be forgotten.”

As for the quiet achiever himself – who was to be presented

with a ‘thank you’ book signed by customers on his final day – I

ask Andrew which pizza he would recommend.

“Capricciosa. I love a capricciosa,” says Andrew without any

hesitation.

Who’s game to question that?

– Rob Pegley

News


MAY 2025 11

News

Green berets overcome red tape

He may be in his 80s, but

ex-commando Allan

Miles still has a neversay-die

mentality – as the State

Government found during his

pursuit of a memorial for his

ex-colleagues.

It’s more than 60 years since

Allan first entered the 1 Commando

Company barracks at

Georges Heights in Mosman

but his memory is as sharp

as ever.

“The training was physically

demanding, challenging

mentally and achievementorientated,”

Allan recalls. “It

was partly about personal

achievements such as running

five miles in 40 minutes with

a full backpack, but it was also

about team goals… setting out

to achieve success as a group,

so that if something happened

to one of us in battle, another

could take over his role.

“Around 95 per cent drop

out over the 12 months of

training – it’s about having the

determination to succeed and

not give up.”

It is a trait that Allan has

held on to.

After a long and demanding

process, on 6 April in the

lead up to Anzac Day he and

a group of his fellow former

commandos unveiled a permanent

sandstone memorial

and plaque to commemorate

where their barracks once

stood. The Army band played

and ex-commandos came

from far and wide to pay their

respects to acknowledge a

project that has been a long

time in the making.

“I first had the idea in about

1988 when we learned that the

ACHIEVEMENT: Allan Miles with the long fought-for memorial.

unit was going to be brought

into the regular army. That

was when the seed was planted,

but I first put pen to paper

on a plan 51 months ago,” says

Allan, literally with military

precision. “I made contact with

the Defence Department to

start the process.”

And what a process it was to

overcome. For someone whose

training included parachuting,

diving, small-scale raids,

climbing and roping, unarmed

combat and demolitions, there

were a whole new set of obstacles

to overcome.

“I had to deal with a number

of State Government departments,

such as environment

and heritage – there were

seven in all,” explains Allan.

“There were seven interested

groups… and then the Rangers.

I started to make myself

known to all of them. You

need to get a consensus… and

then over the top of that is the

Sydney Harbour Federation

Trust.

“There’s a lot of legalistic

jargon and bureaucracy to get

through, but we had a vision

and a purpose, and they could

see that. Last June we achieved

our first goal of getting a

heritage marker for where we

had the barracks and training

ground at Georges Heights.”

And on Sunday 6 April,

some 10 months later, 151

people attended an event in

beautiful sunshine to unveil

the memorial – around 40 of

them ex-commandos, the vast

majority wearing the famous

green beret.

“We had blokes come from

Queensland, Victoria, Northern

Territory and Tasmania,”

says Allan. “There were a

few who I didn’t know, who

trained after I had left in 1973,

but I knew pretty much everyone

who had a beret on.

“There are 4000 men that

went through training between

1955 and 2000 as far as

I’m aware, and this memorial

is for them.”

It’s worth pointing out that

this isn’t the first project Allan

has completed; he is also

Chairman of ‘Operation Pilgrimage’,

comprising a group

of former commandos who

conduct charitable works.

“We don’t seek publicity, but

we’ve completed a number of

other projects and people have

been incredibly grateful with

the results.”

I ask Allan if he and his

fellow ex-commandoes – two

of whom hail from Pittwater

– feel proud of their achievements.

“I never use the word

‘proud’,” says Allan. “We have

a sense of achievement. I’ve

had congratulatory e-mails

and calls and letters, and

that lets me know that we’ve

delivered another project to a

satisfactory level and people

are pleased.

“I’m glad that this memorial

now means the site is recognised

as a significant historical

military scene.”

– Rob Pegley

12 MAY 2025


Monash CC hits 75 years

Monash Country Club at

Ingleside celebrates its

75th anniversary this

year with a special week of golf

starting on 28 April incorporating

a charity day to support

local men’s health charity

Gotcha4life.

For those who have driven

past this institution on Powderworks

Road for years and know

little about its history, it has

interesting roots.

“A number of Sydney golf

clubs wouldn’t allow Jewish

people to play their courses,” explains club Vice President Neil

Warren. “In 1946 a decision was made by the Jewish Social

Golf Club to build their own course. Up until then there had

been places such as Bonny Doon that had allowed play. Work

on Monash started in 1947 and by 1950 there were nine holes

open.

“It wasn’t a Jewish golf club when it opened – anyone could

join irrespective of their religion,” says Neil. “We have that

same policy today of no discrimination, you can be a member

irrespective of race, religion, colour or sexuality.”

Neil has been a member for 50 years and joined in some

ways through a matter of his own discrimination.

“I was living at Killara and playing at Gordon, but they

wouldn’t let me join as I was too young – you had to be 21,”

laughs Neil, “so I joined here and have been here ever since.”

ANNIVERSARY: Monash Country Club at Elanora Heights.

With a decade on the board

and as treasurer, Neil has seen

much change and a lot of investment

in the course.

“There was some decline in

golf in the post-Norman era,

but we managed to turn the

finances round and built some

new greens,” he says.

“We worked on the basis that

the quality of the course was

what people came for, and took

a ‘Field of Dreams’ approach –

‘if you build it, they will come’.”

With Mona Vale Toyota a

sponsor, the club is in good shape and is attracting players of

all ages (the current women’s champion is talented 11-year-old

Ming Ming Lee). And this month the club wants to give back in

a meaningful way.

“We sadly had a staff member commit suicide; when we were

deciding on a charity to support for our anniversary, Gotcha4life

seemed a good choice.”

Gotcha4Life is a not-for-profit foundation, based in

Brookvale, dedicated to building a mentally fit future. The

charity develops and delivers preventative mental fitness campaigns,

workshops, programs and resources in schools, sports

clubs, workplaces and communities Australia-wide.

Fitting that the golf club that was started to overcome discrimination

continues to give back to communities 75 years on.

– Rob Pegley

News


MAY 2025 13

News

24-hour vet’s 36 years party

Northside Emergency

Veterinary Service

(NEVS) at Terrey Hills

celebrates 36 years helping

pets and their owners this

month – often in emergency

situations such as the one

Marty Duck and his dog Oscar

experienced recently.

“We didn’t realise at the

time, but Oscar swallowed a

corn cob on a Thursday night,

and by the Friday evening he

was vomiting,” recalls Marty.

“He’s a groodle, and a big

one – around 35kg – and by

early Saturday morning he was

shaking and looking sick.

“We rushed him to our local

vets in Ryde and they referred

us to NEVS. The vets themselves

thought NEVS was the

best bet.

“We managed to get Oscar

there by mid-morning and he

had surgery that afternoon.

It was a nice facility and they

were super helpful.

While money isn’t the

primary consideration when

your furry companion is in

need, the Ducks say they were

relieved when they discovered

that NEVS’ emergency treatment

was the most affordable.

“We did a phone-around for

a couple of quotes, but NEVS

was also the cheapest place to

take Oscar,” Marty explains.

After two nights at NEVS,

including visits from the family,

Oscar is now well down the

road to recovery and one more

success story for the reliable

24-hour veterinarians’ hub.

And as Marty experienced,

it is often the vets that other

vets recommend – the vets that

are open 24 hours and always

equipped for emergencies.

Operating since 1989, NEVS

has recently moved a short

distance to new, purpose-built

premises which boast humangrade

hospital facilities. Not

far from their previous Terrey

Hills site, it’s every bit as

welcoming and even more

ON THE

MEND:

Oscar the

groodle.

impressive.

Hospital Superintendent

Dr Heather Russell says: “It’s

designed to offer world-class

emergency and critical care

under one roof. With state-ofthe-art

equipment, modern

facilities, and a calm, welcoming

environment, it’s a space

where pets and people feel safe

and supported during life’s

most stressful moments.

“Our team is fully equipped

to manage emergency surgery,

intensive care, diagnostics,

and hospitalisation on site.

When appropriate, we can

arrange a smooth transfer

back to your local family vet,

ensuring continuity of care

and peace of mind.”

Anyone on the Beaches who

has made a late-night dash to

NEVS – yours truly included

– will know what a calm and

reassuring presence it provides

in times of distress. Our

pets are like family members

and such emergency measures

are always stressful. NEVS are

well used to dealing with the

trauma of owners, as well as

looking after their pets.

If you’ve never been to NEVS,

then Saturday 25 May provides

the perfect opportunity to visit

them under calmer circumstances.

From 9am to 1pm at their

new base at 16 Myoora Rd,

Terrey Hills, there will be a celebration

of 36 years of helping

pets and everything is free –

jumping castle, sausage sizzle,

pet first aid mini-courses, a

dog show, raffles, giveaways

and a birthday cake.

And of course, dogs are very

welcome!

Expect a morning of fun,

lots of noise, and the chance to

memorise the route to NEVS in

case it’s ever needed.

Plus, keep an eye out for

Oscar! – Rob Pegley

*Do you have a story about

NEVS? Write to us at


14 MAY 2025


News

Letters: Readers have their say

It’s pre-election

smoke & mirrors

“Albo’s $250m Mona Road

Pitch” (Pittwater Life – April)

is a false promise. There’s

more to delivering for the

community than an electioneve

promise from the Federal

Infrastructure Minister in a

government under the pump

and likely to lose its majority.

A promise so last minute it

didn’t appear in the budget

papers. Notwithstanding,

Sophie Scamps claims “the

money is in the bank” and

“there has been no deal done”

with Labor. Both Teals “will

continue to advocate” for the

additional funds required.

James Brown, Liberal

candidate, has announced

the coalition will match it.

Announcements don’t equal

delivery!

The responsibility for Mona

Vale Road rests with the State

Government. The previous

Liberal State Government had

the project ($340m) banked, in

the budget and “shovel ready

in 2023”. The Minns Labor

Government cancelled it and

reallocated the funds west

and for increased salaries. The

Minns Government is unlikely

to change this priority.

How can we get key

infrastructure delivered for

the Northern Beaches? Not

from Labor, their focus is

westward. Support for the

Teals by Labor, State and

Federal, is to keep the Liberals

out. It was the Liberals who

delivered the first stage.

We would all like Mona

Vale Road completed and

other nice-to-haves locally.

But this is a Federal election

upcoming with serious

economy-wide ramifications.

Current excess spending

by all Labor governments is

unsustainable. It is crowding

out the private sector, which

is the only creator of wealth.

It is strongly contributing

to inflation and cost-ofliving

pressures. Growth

per head has declined eight

per cent below its peak. Our

productivity has flatlined. The

world is more unpredictable

and less safe. The spendathon

must stop. We are making the

situation worse and leaving a

terrible mess for our children

and grandchildren. There are

serious trade-offs and choices

to be made. We cannot solve

every issue by spending more!

Geoff Hodgkinson

Palm Beach

Kimberley take a

different matter

My comment on ‘Cultural

collaboration – the burning

question’ (Pittwater Life –

April) is that as Lloyd Kwilla

comes from the Kimberley,

the amazing landscape there

cannot be compared with

the east coast of NSW, and

particularly our Northern

Beaches area. Therefore, the

burning requirements would

be totally different. Our

seasons are so different. Plus,

climate change has affected

our coastline areas far more

than the Kimberley region.

It would be far more

important to speak with

indigenous leaders of

the Sydney area for their

views on this matter

of burning. However, I

acknowledge the difficulties

to actually find people who

have the knowledge, and the

knowledge of our particular

area.

Martha Crummy

Queenscliff

*Got something you want to

get off your chest? Tell us at


16 MAY 2025


Performing arts boost

Narrabeen Sports High school dance students are set to

benefit from a brand-new stand-alone Performing Arts

Hall following a funding commitment from the NSW

Government.

The space will feature a stage and large performance area with

seating for up to 500 students, two acoustically treated music

rooms plus a smaller performance space with a sprung wooden

floor to support dance and other creative arts subjects.

It’s understood the project, which is in design and

development stage, is expected to cost more than $5 million

when completed in 2027.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early

Learning Prue Car and Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby co-hosted

the announcement on the last day of term in April, touring the

campus and viewing the School’s

current upgrades.

Until now, the school has relied on

off-site venues for performing arts

activities.

Ms Car said: “This upgrade will

enrich student life at Narrabeen

Sports High school – academically,

physically, and creatively – for years

to come.

“These improvements strengthen

schools as community assets that

serve local families and foster

student success across generations.”

Ms Scruby said the new facilities

were a big win for both the school

POISED FOR SUCCESS: Pru Car and Jacqui Scruby with

Narrabeen Sports High school dance students.

and the community.

“These are more than just buildings – they are an investment

in our young people’s talents and a major expansion of the

educational opportunities at the school,” she said.

“I advocated strongly for these facilities in Parliament and

directly with the Minister. With a government that supports the

creative industries, we’re backing the next generation of talent

from the ground up.”

Narrabeen Sports High School Principal, Heidi Currie, said:

“These flexible, innovative learning spaces are designed to

support the success of every student – and we look forward to

what’s ahead.”

Year 8 dance student Mia Murdoch said: “It’s like everything

to me… I’ve been doing dance ever since I can remember and it

feels so good to be able to perform it

at school as well.

“We’re very excited. I think it will

be great to have our own space like

all the other sports do. It means a

lot to us.”

The new facility complements

ongoing upgrades across the

campus, which include renovated

Technological and Applied Studies

(TAS) classrooms; refurbished

science labs; upgraded amenities

and change rooms; a new roof across

large sections of the school; and new

turf laid on the school’s sports oval.

– Nigel Wall

News


MAY 2025 17

News

Rates hike to yield $16 million

Key strategic Northern

Beaches Council documents

including the 2025/26

draft budget are open for

community feedback.

Other documents include

the Draft Community Strategic

Plan 2040 which outlines

the longer-term vision for the

Northern Beaches.

Mayor Sue Heins said

Council was committed to delivering

on the community’s

aspirations while maintaining

critical infrastructure.

“To do this we are focussing

on the basics including

investing millions of dollars

in our road and footpath

network which have suffered

from the impacts of ongoing

weather and flood activity

along with stormwater

infrastructure improvements

critical to protecting the community

against increasing

storm and flood activity,” she

said.

Highlights include:

• $25.3m improving road assets

which includes $9.5m

for resurfacing roads;

• $14.9m on priority stormwater

management works

to reduce flooding and

pollution;

• $4m on Newport to The Serpentine

section of the Coast

Walk, renewing Stuart Sommerville

Bridge Queencliff

as well as a new pedestrian

and cyclist bridge at Queenscliff;

• $3.4m on town and village

centres including works at

Church Point; and

• $3.2m on new and improved

footpaths across 23

suburbs.

Cr Heins said Council

was committed to realising

productivity savings totalling

$5m in the next three years

to reduce the burden on rates,

plus one-off capital savings

totalling $10m in the next five

years.

“Council is proposing $2m

in savings next financial

year through scaling back

events and making changes

to the levels of service of the

Hop Skip and Jump Bus, the

closure of vacation care along

with optimising our fleet,”

she said.

The budget also proposes

Council increase its community-led

event grants program

by $86k to a total of $189k for

the year.

“We are continuing to look

for ways to build on efficiencies

and savings already made

and have made tough decisions

to reduce certain services. It is

crucial that we budget to maintain

the critical infrastructure

and services that our community

needs and relies on,”

Mayor Heins added.

The 2025/26 draft budget

includes a forecast $16 million

boost from a proposed

Special Variation to rates

application, with a decision

from assessor the Independent

Pricing and Regulatory

Tribunal (IPART) due in May.

If this is approved by

IPART and then adopted by

Council, rates would increase

by an extra 8.3% in the

2025/26 year in addition to

the 3.8% rate peg. – Nigel Wall

*More info Council website.

6THINGS

THIS MONTH

Swinging Sinatra. Come

fly with a 20 piece ensemble

- Lionel Robinson & the

Beachside Band - giving the Ol’

Blue Eyes classics the treatment

they deserve at Palm Beach

Golf Club on Sat 3 tickets $37 at

palmbeachgolf.com.au.

Makers Market. Get along to

the annual Terrey Hills Market

which celebrates local talent and

community spirit with a variety of

stalls focussing on handmade,

organic arts and crafts and local

produce plus plenty of activities

for the kids on Sun 4 from 9am-

2pm at Frank Beckman Reserve.

Star gaze. An opporunity

to marvel at the beauty of

the moon, stars, planets and

constellations at Governor

Phillip Park Palm Beach guided

by volunteers from the Northern

Sydney Astronomical Society

sharing their knowledge and

their telescopes on Fri 23 from

6pm-8pm. Bookings through NB

Council website essential.

Watercolour Workshop. Join

contemporary watercolour artist

Tanya Baily for 3-hour fun and

fast sessions on Thu 29 and Fri

30 from 10.30am to 1.30pm at

the Avalon Creative Space giving

you the tools and confidence

to record travel memories with

watercolour. Cost $150. Book

through humanitix.

Red Shield Appeal. The

Salvation Army’s annual

doorknock will take place

on Sat 24 and Sun 25 when

volunteers go door-to-door

collecting donations to fund vital

social services for vulnerable

individuals and families. Learn

how you can get involved at

salvationarmy.org.au

Marine Rescue. The Marine

Rescue State Communications

Centre at Belrose which

monitors waterway safety and

activates and co-ordinates

rapid emergency response

along the entire NSW coastline,

has a range of volunteer roles

available register your interest

at newmembers.sydney@

marinerescuensw.com.au

18 MAY 2025


News

PROTECTION: Heritage values in focus.

Pittwater Heritage List plan

Mackellar Independent MP Dr Sophie

Scamps says she will nominate

Pittwater to the National Heritage List

should she be re-elected on May 3.

Dr Scamps says the move will protect

and conserve the area’s unique heritage

values and significance for future

generations.

The nomination aimed to secure federal

protection under the Environment

Protection and Biodiversity Conservation

Act, ensuring any actions impacting

Pittwater’s heritage values require

ministerial approval.

However, the geographical border of

the nomination – to determine what

defines ‘Pittwater’ – is yet to be known,

nor is how the nomination would cut

across the NSW Government’s new planning

law.

“Pittwater is a breathtaking natural

wonder and an area of profound historical,

natural and cultural significance for

Australia that warrants protection on

the National Heritage List,” Dr Scamps

said.

She said Pittwater’s sites represented

a direct link to First Nations’ ancestors

and traditions, and remarkable figures

like Bowen Bungaree of the Garigal

Clan, who lived in Pittwater with his

family. The area also reflected Australia’s

colonial history, dating back to

its naming by Governor Arthur Phillip

in 1788.

On Easter Saturday 1891, a day was

even spent drafting the Australian

Constitution at the Basin, onboard the

Lucinda, she said.

“Pittwater is a cornerstone of our nation’s

story – from its sacred Indigenous

heritage sites to iconic landmarks like

Barrenjoey Lighthouse and the remnants

of stone jetties on the Western

foreshores, which represent the early

maritime functions of the area. This underscores

the importance of preserving

these legacies,” Dr Scamps said.

“Pittwater is an iconic region of Sydney,

yet the character and unsurpassed

beauty of the place is under threat from

inappropriate development and excessive

excavation.”

She said Pittwater’s natural landscapes,

including its bushland reserves,

coastal headlands, wetlands and

Norfolk Island pines, all illustrated Australia’s

rich biodiversity, necessitating

the importance of conservation efforts

to maintain the region’s ecological heritage

and cultural continuity.

Pittwater also held special cultural

resonance across generations from

its evolving role as a maritime hub

to a retreat for leisure, including its

contribution to the development of surf

lifesaving in Australia, Dr Scamps said.

The National Heritage List nomination

has the support of Pittwater MP

Jacqui Scruby.

“Protecting Pittwater through a National

Heritage Listing helps safeguard

its unique cultural, natural and historical

legacy,” Ms Scruby said.

With nominations to the National

Heritage List due to open during the

next term of Parliament, Dr Scamps

said she would work with the Northern

Beaches community, cultural historians

and conservationists on the nomination,

to ensure Pittwater received the

national recognition and protection it

deserved.

– Nigel Wall

*Meet the Mackellar candidates – P30

$1m local rockpools fix

Liberal candidate for Mackellar James

Brown has announced a pre-election

Coalition commitment of $1 million to renew

the under-stress Avalon and Bilgola ocean

rockpools.

And an elected Dutton Liberal Government

will also commit $3.5 million to upgrade the

North Narrabeen Surf Life Saving Club.

The rockpool works would support the

relocation of valves and ensure the coastal

assets remained safe, accessible and enjoyable

for generations to come, Mr Brown said.

“Our rockpools are more than just places

to swim – they are essential to the lifestyle

we enjoy on the Beaches and must be preserved,”

Mr Brown said.

“Every morning, locals gather here at these

iconic pools, embracing the beauty and community

spirit that defines us on the Beaches.”

“This commitment will protect and improve

a much-loved space that will contribute

to the wellbeing of our community for

generations to come.”

The North Narrabeen SLSC commitment

would deliver essential upgrades to the clubhouse

including waterproofing, the addition of

handrails and balustrades, cladding, rendering,

lighting, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning

replacement and a new bin enclosure.

Without these upgrades, the clubhouse

faces water damage leading to structural

deterioration and exposure to mounting

maintenance and repair costs.

“North Narra Surf Club has been keeping

us safe for over a century now, so it’s vital

that we back them by funding the upgrades

they need for the decades to come,” Mr Brown

said.

“This commitment would not have been

possible without the tireless volunteers who

run the club – many of whom remain active

in patrolling the beach and keeping us safe at

weekends.”

“These upgrades will allow the Club to attract

more members, conduct more training and

equip local kids with the surf skills they need

to become the surf lifesavers of the future.”

The coalition has also pledged to match

Labor’s $250 million allocation to complete

the Mona Vale Road West upgrade, plus $4.5

million to rebuild Newport Surf Club. – NW

20 MAY 2025


Opinion News

Sideline Eye

At a time when households

and businesses across

the Northern Beaches are

doing it tough, one would hope

that Council – our most immediate

and visible tier of government

– would rise to meet the

moment. Instead, we’re witnessing

a deeply flawed process

disguised as planning.

The draft Operational Plan

and 2025/26 Budget, now on

exhibition, is a textbook example

of poor economic stewardship.

Legally, yes – Council must

table a draft plan. But to build

it on the assumption that the

Independent Pricing and Regulatory

Tribunal (IPART) will approve

a 39.6 per cent rate hike

over three years is not just risky:

it’s irresponsible. It’s budgeting

on a wish and a prayer.

measures” as a key win of the

weekend – but the reality is

these savings are token at best.

What was missing was a

serious attempt to find real

efficiencies. No hard look at

internal overspending, staffing

blowouts, or non-essential

programs – just more of the

same, with the bill handed to

residents.

Cr De Luca offered practical,

common sense amendments,

backed by a genuine effort to

rein in costs. His proposals

were ignored – not because

they lacked merit, but because

they challenged the prevailing

groupthink. The result? A Plan

that postures as responsible but

fails the basic test of economic

stewardship.

These same Councillors

By Michael Gencher

Budgeting on assumptions:

It’s time for real stewardship

And the worst part? Council

doesn’t even know yet if IPART

will approve the Special Rate

Variation (SRV). That decision

won’t come until May. So, what

exactly is the community being

asked to engage with? A

financial plan that may become

irrelevant the moment that ruling

is handed down?

This isn’t planning. It’s

posturing. And it’s wasting your

money.

‘Consultation’ myth

Let’s not forget: this Plan

was devised during a behindclosed-doors

Budget Planning

Weekend, championed by the

same Councillors who voted

in favour of the SRV. Councillors

Beaugeard and Hackman

proudly spoke of “cost-saving

had the gall to claim the Plan

was formed through extensive

community consultation. That

is simply not true. This was a

process designed to validate a

decision already made, not one

intended to listen to or respond.

When it becomes spin

Economic stewardship isn’t

a buzzword – it’s a duty. It’s

about responsible management

of ratepayer funds. It’s about

ensuring the basics – roads,

rates, rubbish – are delivered efficiently,

and that red tape is reduced,

not increased. It’s about

transparency and making tough

decisions based on community

need – not political loyalty or

bureaucratic convenience.

Instead, we get group voting

blocs aligned with the Mayor,

24 MAY 2025


indulging in projects that prioritise

appearances over outcome,

with little regard for cost, accountability

or genuine community

need. Take the Warriewood

Community Centre – what was

meant to be a straightforward

redevelopment has spiralled

into a cost blowout. The Narrabeen

Sailing Club is following

the same pattern: a modest

upgrade now morphing into a

multi-million-dollar expense,

with scant detail on how this

benefits the sailing club or the

broader community.

In Pittwater, more than

$130,000 was spent on Mona

Vale Place Plan engagement—

only to see key community priorities

shelved in the final version.

Meanwhile, long-standing

small businesses are penalised

over minor compliance issues,

while Council’s internal costs

grow unchecked.

Where to from here?

The 3.5 years left in this Council

term must be used wisely. We

need:

• Infrastructure spending that

delivers genuine benefit;

• Simplified interactions with

business and less red tape;

• A reset on project priorities

based on value and necessity;

• Community voices brought

back to the centre – not just

ticked off the list; and

• Budget transparency and

accountability embedded into

every decision.

We don’t need political theatrics.

We need leadership. We

need stewardship.

The stakes are local

The decisions made inside

Council chambers may not

dominate national headlines,

but they shape the day-to-day

lives of every resident in Pittwater.

They determine whether

your local café survives.

Whether families can afford to

stay. Whether sports fields get

upgraded, and whether roads

get fixed.

And when Council treats its

budget process as an exercise

in compliance over common

sense, it tells us everything

about their priorities.

*Contact michael@michaelgencher.com.au

(no hyphen);

what do you think? Tell us at


Opinion News


MAY 2025 25

The Way We Were

Every month we 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 they stay the same! Compiled by Lisa Offord

The Way We Were

25 Years Ago…

Pittwater was to stage a $29,000 one-day talkfest

in August with a Council-sponsored Community

forum where the results “could be used” for future

strategy and spending. “There are 38 registered

groups which will be invited to send delegates to the

talkfest, at which the six primary issues given priority

in the Councils Resident survey of November 1988

will be taken into account. These were Infrastructure

(roads and footpaths), Environment, Waterways,

Waste, Building Controls and Community Services.

But other issues might also come up at the meeting.

In a recent interview, where it was pointed out to the Mayor

Cr Patricia Giles that Pittwater’s funding support for arts events

was low and dropping, Mrs Giles said that the forum could well

suggest this become a funding priority… Given that many of the

groups have opposing views, the meeting promises to be lively.

And there are some surprising omissions, like the Surf Club, the

Friends of Currawong and the Friends of Avalon and Careel

Bay Dog Walkers Committee.” State Member for Pittwater John

Brogden wrote a column about the Carr Government’s ‘Compact

City’ policy which “… forces denser development but ignores the

individual character of local areas”. Mr Brogden wrote: “Over the

last five years the Carr Government has aggressively pursued a

policy of urban consolidation – a blanket approach

forced on Sydney councils regardless of the individual

character or environment of local communities. We

have seen more homes squeezed onto our already

stressed and tired roads and transport system and

increased pressure on urban infrastructure such

as sewerage and water supply. In Pittwater we see

the effects of the Carr Government’s policies. In

addition to the construction of 1,500 new homes in

Warriewood Valley over the next five to seven years,

the Government has required Pittwater Council to

allow 1,000 new homes over a 20-year period starting from 1997.

That’s 2,500 new homes, at least 5,000 more people, and hundreds

of new cars on our roads. Pittwater’s first five-year plan includes

shop-top housing in Avalon and greater density around shopping

areas in Mona Vale, Newport and Palm Beach but the worst is yet

to come with Council’s future five-year plans that will creep further

into established neighbourhoods. But don’t blame Council – the

Carr Government is forcing this on them and us… Bob Carr must

understand we don’t all want to live in a high-rise suburb.” Also,

the first woman to sail solo, non-stop and unassisted around the

world Kay Cottee revealed her artistic talent in her first exhbition

of sculptures and pastels.

26 MAY 2025


15 Years Ago…

The mag cover showed Woolworths’

proposal for its Barrenjoey Road

frontage for Newport – “… there is no

doubt this is a huge issue which has

divided the community”. Liberal MP for

Mackellar Bronwyn Bishop wrote about

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd’s national

population strategy where Australia

could reach 36 million people by 2050,

raising questions about

how we house, water

and provide for such

a number. “We may

‘cope’ but with a lesser

standard of living. A

classic case is now

being foistered on our

Peninsula. The Labor

State Government

has recently simply

decreed that the

Northern Beaches

Peninsula must

accept an additional

27,300 dwellings,

seeing up to an

additional 50,000

people move in

between now and

2031. We have

three roads in and

out – two of them

Mona Vale Road and Wakehurst Pakrway

are mostly one lane each way with the

Parkway subject to frequent closure due

to flooding and both subject to bushfire

hazards. Not a word about increased

infrastructure be it road widening or more

adquate public transport or even provision

for how the sewerage system with

operate.” John Brogden wrote a searingly

honest article on suicide.

Mona Vale nextdoor

neighbours

Manly High School

students Stephen

Pagett (17) and

Ashleigh Rubenach

(16) landed the

leading roles in

the Chatswood

Musical Society’s

production of High

School Musical 2 and

also in their school

production of Beauty

and the Beast; and

Pittwater MP Rob

Stokes urged the State

Labor Government

to “deliver on its

commitment to restore

maternity services to

Mona Vale Hospital”.

5 Years Ago…

Pittwater Life was the only

print media publishing and

distributing to homes and

businesses on the Northern

Beaches as the world navigated

the COVID-19 pandemic. Not only

were pages full of local news and

stories and a few laughs too, we

were also able to offer health

providers, shops and businesses

who had chosen to work harder

than ever to keep their brands

alive under extremely testing

conditions, the opportunity to

share their key messages: “Your

creativity and dedication to your

community will be remembered.”

The Way We Were


MAY 2025 27

News

SEEN…

Readers may recall our 2023 story on Mona

Vale’s Gary Swindail, who was building a

5.8-metre mini ocean sailing yacht to compete

in this year’s around-the-world solo

Mini Globe race. Gary (middle left) set sail

on his yacht ‘Question 2’ from Antigua in

February and is currently halfway through

the second leg, due in Fiji in late May.

Fifteen brave souls are competing, with

almost another 12 months on the water

ahead of them. You can follow their progress

at minigloberace.com… A record 85

boats converged for Australia’s largest ‘raftup’

in Refuge Bay in March (right) to raise funds and awareness

for mental health. The two-day ‘Raft Up 4 Life’ event, hosted by

the Royal Motor Yacht Club in support of Sydney charity Gotcha4Life,

saw dozens of vessels form an enormous circle with a

diameter of over 140 metres… Former Federal Liberal leader

Dr John Hewson drew a 500-strong audience to Dee Why RSL

in April, where he talked up the Teal independents movement

with local MPs Dr Sophie Scamps and Zali Steggall on stage. Dr

Hewson resigned his Liberal Party membership in 2019 over

his colleagues’ inaction on climate change. He told the crowd:

“I think minority government is an inevitability in Australia.

I think it can work, with independents holding the balance of

power, or – as we like to say these days – the power of balance.”

HEARD…

Council will turn to Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby for help in opposing

the State Government’s new draft Permit Parking Guidelines

which it says will have a severe impact on revenue. The review

would see landlords obligated to hand over one of their two free

parking permits to their tenants. In April, Council resolved to

oppose the scheme and will request it maintain autonomy “to

manage local parking demand, as it has done effectively since

amalgamation, rather than be subject to broad, one-size-fits-all

state policies”. Crucially, if the proposed changes are enacted,

Council wants the Government to provide funding to cover the

cost of providing the stickers to renters… There’s no doubting

Narrabeen Independent Councillor Vince De Luca’s commitment

to austerity measures during the cost-of-living crisis. At

Council’s April meeting Cr De Luca stood up for ratepayers, with

a raft of proposals aimed at hip pocket relief. Among them: reducing

Council employment

costs by 20%

in 2025/26;

reducing new

staff by 25%;

and wiping almost

$500,000

in events and

grant finding.

He also

proposed

slashing the

budget for the

LGA’s creative

facilities by 50%,

noting their

$8.7 million

loss over the

past eight years.

His motion was

defeated 11-4.

ABSURD…

Those six repaired bendy buses that the NSW Government

promised would return to service on the Northern Beaches in

April, as reported in this magazine last month? Yeah… nah! (At

least as of April 23.) We suggested to Transport for NSW that if

they knew they had six buses ready to go, they must know the

exact date of their return? Yeah… nah! After our approach, a

fluffy feature appeared in The Sydney Morning Herald promoting

the process the Government is going through to squeeze out

seven more years of service, including ‘Frankenstein-ing’ the

buses with relocated doors and new floors. But the SMH story

buried the lead – that repairs to the balance of the 83-strong

bendy bus fleet were being put out to tender (total cost not disclosed).

Translation: they don’t have capacity to do it themselves.

And the Government suggests they will all be returned by the

end of the year? It’s taken six months to return six! And not

even! Footnote: Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby told us she will be

livid if the first six buses are not prioritised to Avalon.

28 MAY 2025


Federal Election

2025 FEDERAL ELECTION – Mackellar Preview

The battle

for Mackellar

The electorate of Mackellar,

created in 1949,

covers the entire former

Pittwater Council area and a

majority of the former Warringah

Council area.

However, this year the electorate

is bigger than ever, with

a redistribution taking in new

voters in North Curl Curl, Killarney

Heights and the whole

of Forestville.

Mackellar had always been

won by the Liberal Party – and

by substantial margins – until

Dr Sophie Scamps’ preferenceassisted

win in 2022.

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 before losing to Dr Scamps

in 2022 despite winning 41.4

per cent of the primary vote to

Dr Scamps’ 38.1 per cent. Labor

candidate Paula Goodman

polled 8.2 per cent.

Nine candidates have nominated

in 2025; in ballot order

they are: Lisa Cotton (Ind); Brad

Hayman (One Nation); Ethan

Hrnjak (Greens); Justin Addison

(Libertarian); Amber Robertson

(Trumpet of Patriots); James

Brown (Liberal); Sunny Singh

(Ind); Sophie Scamps (Ind); and

Jeffrey Quinn (Labor).

Over the following pages we

profile the main candidates.

– Compiled by Nigel Wall

30 MAY 2025


INDEPENDENT – Dr Sophie Scamps

I’m for fresh, common sense ideas

Dr Scamps was elected as a community independent in 2022

– the first ever independent elected to represent Mackellar. She

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.

Incumbent MP Dr Scamps

says she has worked hard

over the past three years

to address constituents’

concerns and to protect “our

wonderful way of life and

environment here on the

Beaches” – spending her first

term fighting for cost-of-living

relief, greater support for

business, stronger climate

policy and honest politics.

“Locally I’ve had several major

wins, including securing

$250 million in federal funding

to complete the upgrade

of Mona Vale Road,” she said.

“That is the first federal

funding the project has ever

received.

“I’ve also helped to finally

end the licence to drill for oil

and gas off our coastline and

successfully advocated for

a performance audit of the

Northern Beaches Hospital.

The NSW Government is now

in active negotiations to take

the hospital back into public

hands from its private operator

– something I have been

calling for a long time.”

Dr Scamps said she had

also recently secured a commitment

for an Urgent Care

Clinic in Dee Why, while a new

youth mental health hub in

Brookvale was under construction.

“I’ve also taken fresh,

common sense ideas to

Parliament: leading calls for

a tax-free threshold for small

business, an end to gambling

and junk food advertising,

and Commonwealth subsidises

for household batteries,

to make the most of our

rooftop solar success and

bring electricity prices down

for everyone,” she said.

“In Parliament, I’ve also

had big wins negotiating

significant legislative amendments.

With my ‘Ending Jobs

for Mates’ bill, I helped set

a precedent by establishing

gold standard appointments

processes in Canberra and

with a private member’s bill,

I helped strengthen federal

protection of our rivers and

waterways from destructive

gas fracking.”

Dr Scamps said she took the

privilege of voting in Parliament

seriously and voted to

improve our national climate

ambition, to lower taxes

across the board, to cap the

price of gas bills and to make

it easier and cheaper to see

a GP.

“I’ve been standing up for

our forests, beaches and businesses

and fighting to protect

our families from harmful

advertising,” she said.

“I’ve been part of our Northern

Beaches community for

more than 25 years as a doctor,

mother, keen sportsperson

and now as your independent

MP for Mackellar.”

She said her commitment to

Mackellar came from a great

love of the community and a

strong sense that it deserved

a “genuine and strong voice”

in Canberra.

“As a GP I’ve looked after

individuals and families and

treated our children’s flus

and fevers. As an emergency

doctor I’ve cared for people in

crisis at Mona Vale Hospital.

“I’ve been part of the highs

and lows and everyday lives

of so many local people. I understand

our challenges, our

values and our way of life.”

Dr Scamps added her team

in the electorate office were

compassionate and fierce

advocates for local residents,

helping them with struggles

with the NDIS, ATO, passports,

visas and more.

“As a community independent,

I represent our views,

values and priorities in Parliament

and I vote 100 per cent

of the time for the people of

Mackellar,” she said.

“I’ve been very clear and

consistent in my policy priorities,

and they come directly

from listening to the people

of Mackellar. No matter what

the make-up of the Parliament

is – you can rest assured

I will stay true to our values

and stand up for the people of

Mackellar every time.”

*More on Dr Scamp’s policies

at sophiescamps.com.au

Federal Election


MAY 2025 31

Federal Election

LIBERAL – James Brown

Vote for decision-making power

When President of the RSL in NSW, former Australian Army

officer James Brown led major reforms in the charity, enabling

more funding for frontline mental health services to veterans and

their families. He led the successful campaign to establish a Royal

Commission into Veteran and Defence Suicides and is co-founder

and Chairman of the charity Invictus Australia. Most recently

he was CEO of the Space Industry Association of Australia.

James grew up and attended school in Collaroy and now lives on

Pittwater with his two young children. He is a member of Palm

Beach RSL sub-Branch and Long Reef Surf Life Saving Club.

James Brown says he is

standing as the Liberal

candidate for Mackellar

because he firmly believes

that effective change requires

being part of a team with real

decision-making power.

“While Independent candidates

may offer appealing

rhetoric, they lack the practical

ability to implement policy or

secure meaningful funding

for our community,” Mr Brown

said. “Whereas a vote for the

Liberal Party is a vote for action,

not just advocacy.”

He said as evidence of this

effectiveness, he had already

secured commitments for

key local infrastructure: $250

million to complete Mona Vale

Road West (from an elected

Coalition Government); $4.5

million to rebuild Newport Surf

Club; $3.5 million to upgrade

North Narrabeen Surf Club; $1

million to repair Avalon and

Bilgola rockpools; plus funding

for the Mona Vale Raiders

Rugby League Club and Manly

Warringah Football Association.

“But there’s much more to do.

Our community needs reliable

childcare, affordable housing,

and policies that ease financial

pressure – not more government

spending that drives

inflation.

“The Liberal approach

recognises that Northern

Beaches families themselves –

not government – are the best

decision-makers for their own

lives. Our policies will reduce

your tax burden, support small

businesses that create local

jobs, and provide immediate

cost of living relief through

fuel tax reform.

“Our housing policy will help

more first-home buyers enter

the market – including young

families currently priced out.

“In today’s uncertain global

environment, with international

tensions rising and economic

challenges ahead, experience

matters. I offer you both proven

leadership and a fresh perspective,

backed by a team that can

govern to deliver real outcomes

for our community.”

Mr Brown said he was committed

to being an accessible,

responsive representative who

understood the daily challenges

facing working parents.

“I pledge to bring the same

determination to Parliament

that guided me through military

service and community

leadership – fighting for your

family’s future in a stronger,

32 MAY 2025


fairer Australia.

“As a parent of two young

children, I have a deeply

personal stake in Australia’s

future. I want my children to

inherit the Australia I grew up

in: strong, fair, and free – but

I recognise that achieving this

requires thoughtful leadership

during challenging times of

global conflict.

“Today, our community faces

real struggles. Many Northern

Beaches families are stretched

thin by the rising cost of living,

unaffordable housing, energy

price hikes, and limited and

expensive childcare options.

These issues affect us all daily

and demand immediate solutions,”

he continued.

“My commitment to service

was instilled by my father, who

recently completed his remarkable

65th year as a volunteer

lifesaver. His dedication to our

community has been a guiding

light throughout my life, showing

me that meaningful change

comes through consistent effort

and putting others first.

“This ethos led me to the

Australian Army, where I

served for nearly a decade.

“Later, as a foreign policy

and defence analyst at the

Lowy Institute, I authored two

books that reshaped Australia’s

national security debate. At 37,

I was elected State President

of the RSL in NSW, where I

implemented major governance

reforms that directed more

charitable funds toward mental

health services for veterans and

their families.”

Mr Brown said he was particularly

proud of helping lead

the national campaign for a

Royal Commission into Veteran

and Defence Suicide – fulfilling

the promise he made to

the parents of a fallen military

friend; as well as founding

Invictus Australia, which now

connects veterans and their

families to the healing power of

sport nationwide.

“These experiences reflect

my approach to leadership:

identifying problems, bringing

people together, and delivering

tangible results.”

*More on James Brown’s and

the Liberal Party’s policies at

liberal.org.au

Federal Election


MAY 2025 33

Federal Election

LABOR – Jeffrey Quinn

‘We’ve been taken for granted’

A Mackellar resident since 1959, Jeffrey Quinn has

dedicated his life to helping young people reach their full

potential. He has more than 35 years’ experience in education,

including leadership roles in schools and education services.

His determination to represent the people of Mackellar is

driven by his commitment to fairness, opportunity and

community service. Mr Quinn says he is running because

he believes in “real action, not just talk” and intends to

stand up for locals, fight for better services and deliver the

infrastructure the community deserves.

Jeffrey Quinn is running for

Mackellar because he says

he is tired of seeing the

local electorate being taken for

granted.

“We’ve seen the neglect

of public services, outdated

infrastructure, and policies

that have left too many young,

vulnerable and aging people

struggling,” he said.

“It’s time for authentic

representation that puts our

community first, not political

complacency, nuclear fantasy or

simply occupying the crossbench.”

Mr Quinn said his key

policies would amplify Labor’s

primary messages of strengthening

Medicare, investing in

clean energy and local jobs, and

supporting families, students

and seniors.

“I will work closely with

State and Local governments

to ensure Mackellar has the

best possible health services,

including emergency, palliative,

aged care, mental health, and

maternity services,” he said.

“No-one should struggle to

access care – Medicare should

be the only card you need at the

doctor.

“We need to electrify Mackellar

by expanding battery

storage and add microgrids for

homes and businesses. We need

to develop local technology and

innovation hubs, bringing jobs

to our area and helping people

work closer to where they live.

“We are campaigning on

free TAFE, lower student debt,

better support for newcomers

to improve their English skills,

and ensuring pensions are

protected and available for all

who need it.”

Mr Quinn said Mackellar

voters had made it clear they

wanted real change after

“decades of Liberal neglect and

complacency”.

“I will focus on world-class

health services, working across

all levels of government to

expand access to emergency

care, aged care, maternity, and

mental health support,” he said.

“We need climate action

that benefits our community,

including cheaper energy, no

nuclear power, and investment

in battery storage and

microgrids with the necessary

generation means, including solar,

tidal, and innovative small

wind modules.

“Our sports and recreation

upgrades include building

more courts and facilities for

indoor sports like netball and

basketball, returning field

sports to grass to reduce the

threat of microplastics, and

helping those businesses transform

into more sustainable

services and products.”

To boost economic growth

and jobs, technology and clean

energy businesses would be encouraged

to locate to Mackellar.

“We will address climate

change and the transition to a

net-zero future,” he said.

“I am not a career politician. I

am an educator, business owner,

and community advocate.

I have taught in local schools

and was formerly the Head of

the Sydney Japanese School’s

International Department, leading

cross-cultural education

and curriculum development.

“Beyond education, I have

worked in a range of local

businesses, gaining hands-on

experience as an employee and

an employer. I have successfully

run businesses dedicated

to helping local students thrive.

“I understand what it takes

to create jobs, manage finances

and improve services – something

Mackellar desperately

needs. I understand the challenges

workers and employers

face. I am committed to policies

that support local businesses,

strengthen education and

health services, and provide

real opportunities.”

“I’ve lived in Mackellar for

66 years – my family has been

here since before Federation.

This is my home, and I can’t see

it being ignored.

“It’s time for representation

that listens, acts and delivers

for the people of Mackellar.”

*Connect with Jeffrey – see

QR code on ad on page17.

34 MAY 2025


THE GREENS – Ethan Hrnjak

Federal Election

Concrete and visionary solutions

Ethan Hrnjak, 21, is the youngest person to be elected to

Northern Beaches Council. He says he nominated for Mackellar

(he also ran in 2022) because he loves politics and sees it as an

important avenue for improving people’s lives and protecting

the environment. Mr Hrnjak joined the Greens because he “felt

a lot of anxiety about the climate and the future”. On Council

he has stood with the community against inappropriate development

and on issues such as tree canopy loss.

Free education, slashed

HECS debt, cheaper housing

and 50-cent public

transport fares nationwide

are the pillars of the Greens’

Federal election campaign, says

their Mackellar candidate Ethan

Hrnjak.

“I’m running to provide a

strong progressive voice,” he

said. “On Council (as Frenchs

Forest Ward councillor), I make

decisions based on fairness and

wish our governments did the

same.

“Whilst I have a natural connection

with young people, I

always consider the wider community

and environment.”

Mr Hrnjak said the Greens

were offering concrete and

visionary solutions to issues.

“Instead of marching to the

neoliberal drumbeat of tax

cuts and deductible lunches for

businesses, we’ll tackle the issues

close to the hearts and hip

pockets of Northern Beaches

residents,” he said.

“We’ll reduce the cost of living

by making housing cheaper,

in part by creating a public

property developer.

“Fifty cent public transport

fares across the country will

also be high on our agenda.

“In a rich nation everyone

should have access to the

health care they need, so we’ll

introduce universal free GP

visits, and include dental and

mental health care in Medicare.

“We’ll wipe all student debt

and make education free at

all levels so that everyone has

access to a high-quality education.

“And while reducing dangerous

carbon emissions, subsidies

for solar and batteries will

also help cut residents’ energy

bills. It goes without saying

that we’ll support strong laws

to protect the environment,

and we’ll unequivocally work

to stop racism and genocide in

Gaza.”

He said the Greens’ policy

commitments would be funded

by a focus on taxing large

corporations.

For those concerned about

“wasting a vote” in a close election

he said: “Remember that

thanks to preferential voting,

you can mark your real first

choice as number 1 on the ballot,

but if that candidate doesn’t

get in, your vote goes to your

second choice, and so on.

“However, polling suggests

a minority government is a

likely outcome. As a Greens MP

on the crossbench, I’ll be in a

unique position to negotiate

for the people of Mackellar

with the strength of our other

Greens in Parliament (now 15).”

He described himself as a

‘Solarpunk’ – which he said

referenced an optimistic literary

and artistic movement that

envisioned a sustainable future

interconnected with nature and

community.

He said that while some voters

may consider his young age

a negative, he believes it to be “a

superpower”.

“I speak with first-hand understanding

of the inequality

young people face. In fact, the

Greens consider diversity an

important aspect of Parliamentary

representation.

“We don’t take donations

from big business, so I will

never be captured by vested

interests – as many older

politicians are. I won’t be the

youngest MP ever elected to

Parliament anyway, but I hope

to bring a fresh point of view to

decisions that affect not only

young people, but also minority

groups and the wider community.

“After standing at four elections

now (including at Federal,

State and Council polls), I’ve

had my fair share of challenges.

I’m often told I’m lucky to be

where I am by other politicians,

discounting the effort I’ve put

in over the past few years.

“People sometimes say I

should get some ‘life experience’

and then go into politics.

To that I say: what is the magic

age and CV that would suddenly

qualify me in their eyes?

I bring a critical eye to all issues

and have already served my

community with dedication,

compassion and unwavering

commitment.”

*More on the Greens’ policies

at greens.org.au

36 MAY 2025


News

Pittwater News

Mandolin Orchestra

The Sydney Mandolin

Orchestra’s second ever

concert on the Northern

Beaches will be held on

Sunday, 25 May at St

David’s Anglican Church,

Palm Beach, commencing

2.30pm. Established in 1932,

the group (with a third

of members living on the

Beaches) is dedicated to

growing and sharing the

tradition of mandolin music,

with a repertoire that spans

classical, neopolitan, folk,

modern, popular and more.

Conductor Werner Ruecker

is a respected classical

guitar teacher and over the

past 10 years has turned

his hand to compositions.

Werner’s partner Fiona

Horbach has lived locally

for 20 years and was the

first student to major in

the mandolin at The Sydney

Conservatorium of Music.

The leader of the orchestra

is George Teasdell who is in

The next meeting of

Bilgola Plateau Probus

will be held at Newport

Bowling Club on Friday

2 May at 10am. Guest

speaker will be former

high-profile TV host and

reporter Mike Munro,

who will talk about his

great uncles: “The Last

Bushrangers”. This story

is both gripping and

personal and an insight

into an Australia coming

of age. Mike’s book will be

available to purchase at the

meeting. Visitors welcome.

The next meeting of

Pittwater Men’s Probus will

be held at Mona Vale Surf

Club on Tuesday 13 May,

commencing 10am. Guest

speaker will be legal eagle

Nicholas Cowdery, who will

discuss ‘The punishment

may fit the crime from

the Mikado, but does it fit

the criminal?’ More info

Stephen McRobie (0400 726

017).

The Combined Probus

Club of Mona Vale will

his final year of a Bachelor

of Music degree and will

be playing a special solo.

The program will feature

‘Australian Soundscapes’, a

program of predominantly

original Australian

mandolin orchestra works

with its centrepiece being

the premiere of Werner’s

‘Wangaratta Dances’. Tickets

on trybooking.com; the

orchestra welcomes new

members and is currently

looking for a regular double

bass player.

Surf Club grants

Four surf lifesaving

clubs in Pittwater have

caught a financial break

of more than $663,000

in newly announced

NSW Government grants.

Narrabeen Beach SLSC will

receive $47,294 to install a

26.4 kW solar energy system

with 3 batteries and Backup

Gateway. Warriewood SLSC

will receive $86,940 to

May Probus Club news in your suburb

meet next on Tuesday, 20

May in the auditorium at

Pittwater RSL Club (from

10am). Guest speaker

will be Dale Cohen,

Publisher of online local

media, Northern Beaches

Advocate. Dale was one of

the first people working on

the Internet from the early

1990s and helped large

organisations including

Channel Nine and Telstra

go online. He will talk

about ‘Media and the Post-

Truth Society’. This is the

concept that there is less

common agreement on

‘settled facts’ in society

and what impact that has

on public debate and social

cohesion. Visitors welcome;

more info call Barry (0435

010 367).

Narrabeen Lakes

Probus will next meet on

Wednesday, 28 May, at

Narrabeen Baptist Church.

Speaker Andrew Miles

will explain the history

of the office of Justice

of the Peace and their

install a 40.94 kW solar

system with battery storage,

reducing energy costs and

supporting sustainability.

South Narrabeen SLSC will

receive $216,954 to invest

in upgrades including solar

power, air conditioning,

and more modern facilities.

And Bilgola SLSC will

receive $312,370 to upgrade

their facilities including

bathrooms and pergola.

Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby

congratulated the clubs on

receiving the grants and

for their contribution to the

community. All recipients

visit nsw.gov.au

Dinner supports

girls in Tanzania

Join Rob and Sophie Stokes

together with Pittwater

Anglican Church for

a special dinner event

supporting girls’ education

in Bunda, Tanzania. Forty

years ago, Mona Vale

local Helen Hoskins left

importance. Doors open at

9.45am for 10am meeting;

more info call/text (0424

464 047).

The next meeting of

Newport Probus will be

held at Newport Bowling

Club on Thursday 1 May at

10am. Guest speaker will

be renowned entomologist

Ian Thompson whose topic

is ‘The humble cockroach –

the most despised creature

on earth’. Please contact

Jenny Neilson (0406 762

908) to advise of your

attendance.

The next meeting of the

Palm Beach and Peninsula

Probus will be held at Club

Palm Beach on Wednesday

21 May, commencing

9.45am. Noel Phelan will

speak on ‘How Australia

won the America’s Cup in

1983’. New members and

visitors welcome; enquiries

for guest speakers call

Valda (0405 272 881).

Australia and witnessed

the devastating impact of

FGM, early marriage and

exploitation of young girls.

In response, she founded

the Bunda Girls Secondary

School, the Girls Brigade

Sewing Centre, and Shalom

Primary School, offering safe

education and vocational

training. Today, 248 girls

are enrolled in secondary

school, and over 253 have

graduated from the sewing

centre – empowering girls

and building independent

futures. The fundraising

dinner will hear student

stories and invite guests

to consider sponsoring a

student, helping to change a

life through education and

empowerment. Dinner is

on Saturday 24 at Pittwater

Anglican Church, Mona

Vale, commencing 6pm.

Registrations essential

at events.humanitix.

com (search banquet for

bunda); more info email

robstokesandsophiestokes@

gmail.com

Council’s new

court proceedings

Northern Beaches Council

workers have commenced

on a new hard court facility

at Winnererremy Bay Park,

Mona Vale. The courts will

be suitable for a range of

sports, including basketball,

netball, handball and

pickleball. The project aims

to enhance the recreational

facilities of the area,

providing numerous benefits

for the local community.

Council says the upgrades

will not only enhance the

recreational opportunities

available but also improve

the overall aesthetics and

functionality of the area.The

works are expected to be

completed by the end of June

and are funded by the NSW

Government and Council.

More info on Council

website.

Seniors &

technology

Computer Pals for Seniors

Northern Beaches would

love to hear from potential

volunteer trainers to

38 MAY 2025


Outstanding Seniors honoured

Seven outstanding Pittwater locals have been honoured

for their valuable contribution to the community with a

Local Achievement Award, as part of the 2025 NSW Seniors

Festival.

Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby presented the awards at

Narrabeen Surf Club in late March.

Recipients (pictured left to right with Ms Scruby) were

Vivien Jackson (Women’s Resilience Centre); Margaret White

(Zonta Club of Warringah);

George Webster (Bei Loon Dragon Boat Club); Marita

Macrae (Pittwater Natural Heritage Association); and

Christine Boyce (Cicada Australia).

Recipients unable to attend were Philip Jackson

(Warringah Rats Rugby Club) and John Pratten (Whale

Beach Surf Life Saving Club).

“We have a wonderful, diverse group of seniors in

Pittwater who generously share their time and expertise

and make a really positive impact on our whole

community,” said Ms Scruby. “They are part of what makes

Pittwater special.”

News

impart their knowledge

and empower seniors’ use

of technology. The notfor-profit

group, based at

the Tramshed, Narrabeen,

teach in-term Monday to

Friday. Common topics

requested by students

include how to send and

receive emails, discovering

useful apps, safe banking

online, learning how to take

and store photos, avoiding

Scams, and basically being

able to operate their devices

with confidence. They teach

Android and Apple tablets

and phones; also Apple,

Microsoft and Chromebook

laptops. If you can help

call 0478 920 651 or email

training.compalsnb@gmail.

com

Richest poetry prize

Entries are open for

Australia’s richest prize

for a single poem, where

Australia’s top and

emerging poets compete


for the $10,000 first prize.

Now in its 13th year, the

ACU Prize for Poetry is

open to new works on the

theme of ‘Belonging’. The

prize has celebrated some

of Australia’s best literary

minds, including Christine

Paice, Judith Beveridge, Mark

Tredinnick, and Geoff Page,

and launched the career

of poet Anna Murchison.

Continued on page 40

MAY 2025 39

Pittwater News

Continued from page 39

Co-judge, scholar and poet

Professor Robert Carver,

said this year’s prize was

especially significant as

Australia looks to appoint

its first poet laureate. “We

continue to produce poets

of international stature,

but the audience for poetry

today is far smaller as a

percentage of the population

than a century ago,” he

said. “Yet we have never

needed poetry more. The

rise of generative AI poses

an existential threat to our

humanity by usurping the

functions of language and

reason that mark us out as

creatures made in the divine

image. Poetry is a powerful

weapon in the arsenal

needed to neutralise that

threat.” Entries close Sunday

1 June; more info acu.edu.au

Scotland Island play

Scotland Island has a proud

history of theatre – in May

a new play will take to the

stage, written by islander

Bogue Anthill. ‘Wedding

Island’ is a comedy set on

Scotland Island. Bogue

says it’s been written in

celebration of Pittwater’s

vibrant offshore community,

but also draws on some of

the trials and tribulations of

living by water access only.

‘Wedding Island’ is directed

by Sophie Lepowic, who has

considerable experience

in film and theatre. The

cast is drawn entirely from

the offshore community.

Performance dates are 9, 10,

16 & 17 May; commences

7.30pm (check for ferries and

times). Tickets $30 (adults),

$15 (concession); go to

events.humantix.com (search

‘wedding island’).

May acts

for The Shack

The Shack is a live music

venue held each month in

the Ted Blackwood Hall,

Jackson Rd., Warriewood.

The team present three live

music acts in a candlelit

cabaret atmosphere. Locals

are invited to bring their

own food and drink for an

affordable and enjoyable

night of live entertainment.

The line-up for May is

Traditional Graffiti, Cameron

Jones Trio and Ben Harris.

Tickets $30 at shackfolk.com

or cash at the door (no wi-fi).

News

Oceans in good hands

The ground-breaking ‘Custodians

of the Ocean’ school education

program pilot launched at St Luke’s

Grammar School, Bayview in April

with 110 enthusiastic students from

Years 1, 3 and 5.

The program was developed by local

charity the Friends of Bongin Bongin

Bay, in collaboration with the NSW

Department of Primary Industries,

the creative agency Studio Oi, First

Nations Representative Neil Evers, and

the staff and students of St Luke’s.

The program blends marine science,

Indigenous knowledge, storytelling

and hands-on learning across four

terms, with classroom-based sessions

and local excursions to connect

children directly with the local marine

environment.

In his feedback Peter Scott, the

Head of Junior School at Bayview,

commented on how authentic,

purposeful and engaging the day was.

Friends of Bongin Bongin Bay

President Greg Pride added: “We’re

proud to lead this local education

initiative. Helping kids fall in love with

the ocean is the first step in creating

long-term engagement.”

Founder and Director of Studio Oi

Pia Dorer said the energy in the room

was electric. “Sharing the wonders

of the ocean alongside its challenges

helps spark real connection,” she

said. “When we love something, we’re

moved to protect it – and that’s where

change begins.”

40 MAY 2025


Vet

on call

with Dr Brown

I

s your cat hiding something

from you? Dental disease in

cats can be hard to spot – and

our feline friends are experts

at masking pain. That’s why

throughout May and June,

Sydney Animal Hospitals

is offering free dental

checks with its veterinary

nurses, plus discounted dental

procedures and savings on

Hill’s Dental food for cats.

Healthy teeth and gums are

essential to your cat’s comfort

and long-term wellbeing.

Regular check-ups with the

SAH team can help identify

hidden dental issues early,

so your cat can stay happy,

healthy, and pain-free.

Dental health matters

Cats can’t brush their own

teeth, so plaque and bacteria

build up over time, leading

to gingivitis and dental

disease. This can cause pain,

infection, and even impact vital

organs if bacteria enter the

bloodstream.

Common signs

Your cat may need dental care

if it has:

• Bad breath;

• Yellow or brown tartar buildup;

• Red or inflamed gums;

• Difficulty eating or chewing;

or

• Excessive drooling or

bleeding gums;

May & June offer

• Free nurse dental checks for

cats (bookings essential);

• Reduced-price dental

procedures;

• Discounts on Hill’s

Prescription Diet T/D for cats

– while stocks last; and

• Free dose of flea and tick

prevention with vaccination.

If dental treatment is

needed, our vets will talk you

through all options – from a

scale and polish under general

anaesthesia, to preventative

care using dental-specific

diets.

Let them help keep your

cat’s teeth sparkling clean and

their health on track.

(Offer valid from 1 May to 30

June – Ts&Cs apply.)

*Book an appointment at

Newport (997 4609) or

Avalon (9918 0833).

News


MAY 2025 41

Paying it

forward

Life Stories

This year, Newport’s Deborah

Killelea and her husband Steve

are marking 25 years of

philanthropy, including a

significant contribution on the

Northern Beaches.

Story by Rosamund Burton

Newport resident

younger brother and the pair – Rebecca, Louise and

“The cousins love each

Deborah Killelea was took the ferry to Ostend in Anthony. When Anthony was other and being together and

awarded a Member Belgium, where their father 18 months old the marriage this annual holiday really

of the Order of Australia was waiting for them.

ended. It was two years later, does keep that family unit

(AM) in January this year When she finished school, in 1992, that she met Steve and bond together.”

for her significant service her father was working in Killelea at the Narrabeen ice By the time Deborah and

to the community through Yugoslavia, so she lived in skating rink.

Steve met, he had developed

charitable organisations. She Belgrade for 18 months,

“We were both parents a computer program

is director of The Charitable before the family returned to watching our children skate,” called Enlighten, which

Foundation, which she

Australia. Deborah did her she recalls. Steve’s daughter enabled users to look inside

co-founded in 2001 with nursing training at Manly Jennayah is a year younger complex computer systems

her husband Steve Killelea Hospital, then worked as a than Rebecca.

to detect problems; in the

to help eradicate poverty nurse with Royal Far West “Steve and I fell in love mid-1980s his company

and conflict. She is also the Children’s Health Scheme. and have been happy ever was listed on New York’s

founder and chair of the At that time children, many since. We knew each other for NASDAQ. His next venture

Warriewood-based Be Centre, of whom were Aboriginal, about 12 months and decided was Integrated Research

the largest Play Therapy came from the country for we’d become a unit.” So, 33 which develops systems

centre in Australia.

specialist treatment and years ago, Deborah and her management products. Its

Deborah was born in stayed in Manly without their children moved into the programs are used by stock

Newcastle and lived there parents and for months at beachfront house in Newport exchanges and manage

until age nine, when her a time. Sponsored by Royal where Steve and she still live Visa, American Express and

family moved to London Far West, she trained as a today.

Mastercard networks and

due to her father’s role with recreational therapist, and “Steve and I always refer ATMs worldwide. Integrated

the Australian Diplomatic for 10 years until 1980, she to having four children,” Research was listed on the

Corp. Eighteen months later organised leisure activities Deborah says. “We do not Australian Stock Exchange in

her father was transferred for children aged two

make a distinction.” Their 2000.

to Germany, so she became to seven. When Deborah three daughters, with their “We made a lot of money,”

a boarder at her London married in 1974, the children partners, now each have Deborah recounts with her

school. At the conclusion with whom she had worked four children of their own, down-to-earth honesty, “and

of term, from age 12, she were outside the church to and once a year Steve and decided we would start a

travelled alone by bus to wish her well.

Deborah bring all the family family foundation with a

Victoria Station, then by train Deborah and her first together for a two-week percentage of it.” So, in 2001

to Dover, where she met her husband had three children holiday in Italy.

Deborah and Steve founded

42 MAY 2025


The Charitable Foundation.

The goal was to reach the

poorest of the poor.

“We wanted to develop

programs, own the programs

and be part of the running

of them,” she said. They

found non-governmental

organisations in Africa and

Asia willing to work with

their formula. The Charitable

Foundation funds a range of

projects, including providing

clean drinking water, soil

restoration and improving

food production, emergency

feeding, cataract surgery,

birthing clinics and more.

There are currently 31

projects, most of which run

for a three-year period.

“We get quarterly reports,

and we visit every year. We

want to make sure that our

dollar is giving value and

that’s why we have such

strict monitoring.”

Deborah says she hasn’t

travelled to Africa, where

they usually travel to several

countries and review 10 to 15

projects in one trip, since the

COVID 19 pandemic. But over

the years Steve, their CEO

Peder Pedersen and she have

stayed in very remote and

primitive places. “All I really

need is a mosquito net and

some cold running water,”

she says with a smile.

Since The Charitable

Foundation’s inception,

they have committed $95

million to projects and made

a life-changing impact on

4.1 million people, and this

incredible couple have been

featured several times in the

Australian Financial Review’s

‘Philanthropy 50’ top givers

list.

In Australia they are

currently working with the

Aboriginal community in

Moree on a project called

‘Justice Reinvest’, which has

the aim of breaking the cycle

of children leaving school

and getting into trouble with

the police and the judicial

system.

Sometimes projects are in

war zones. One in Northern

Uganda rehabilitated

children soldiers abducted by

the Lord’s Resistance Army

(LRA).

“We were there reviewing

the project and the LRA came

over the back fence of the

compound. We all had to run

out of the front gate, and a

firefight started between the

LRA and the Ugandan army.”

Also close to Deborah’s

heart is the Be Centre.

“There’s always a story

in philanthropy,” she says,

as her eyes fill with tears,

and for a moment she is

unable to get words out and

tell the story of her son’s

painful journey. Early on

in primary school Anthony

was diagnosed with ADHD,

had learning difficulties and

despite numerous visits to

specialists, no clear answers

or solutions were found

for his struggles at school.

Aged 14 he was taking drugs

and Deborah took him out

of high school and did

home schooling and aged

15 he had a drug-induced

psychosis. After 12 years of

what Deborah describes as

“the pits” she says he is now

on the right medication and,

despite to this day being

challenged by many aspects

of day-to-day life, he is

“grateful, gracious and just a

delight”.

When he was in his early

teens, Deborah had taken

Anthony to a play therapist,

Continued on page 44

PHOTO: Rosamund Burton

Life Stories

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE:

Deb with husband and

The Charitable Foundation

co-founder Steve on holiday

in Puglia in 2024; with a

rehabilitated former child

soldier in Northern Uganda

in 2001; on holiday at Manly

Beach in 1957; proud of the Be

Centre; at a school in Rwanda

in 2004; Deborah’s wedding

day at Manly in 1975; play

therapy at the Be Centre is

making a difference to the

lives of traumatised children.


MAY 2025 43

Life Stories

Continued from page 43

and it was discovered that he

had early childhood trauma.

“His brain didn’t function

properly after this early

childhood trauma, and I

thought if I had found Play

Therapy earlier, we may not

have ended up where we have

now. So that’s why I founded

Be Centre.”

Deborah set up Be

Centre in 2008 and is a

passionate advocate for early

intervention.

“If children can learn and

recognise this trauma and

deal with it at a really young

age, they are much more

likely to get through school

and be healthy, productive

adults.”

The Be Centre offers a 12-

week Play Therapy program

for children aged 3 to 12. The

continuity of the same room

and same therapist builds

trust. The children are told

that they cannot destroy

objects in the room, or hurt

the therapist, but otherwise

can express themselves

however they want; at the

end of each session nothing

that a child does is disclosed

to the parents. Parents have

a one-to-one meeting with

the child’s therapist halfway

through the treatment and

at the conclusion of the

child’s treatment. In cases of

deeper trauma, the program

extends to 18 weeks, and

sometimes kids stay in the

program for as long as a

year. Unique to Be Centre

is what Deborah calls the

“wrap around service”, which

includes separate counselling

for the parents, and parents

being able to touch base

with a therapist if they have

concerns about their child.

There is also an exit program

– an art club in which the

children do creative art as a

group.

Currently, Be Centre is

working with 61 children

and has 28 on the waiting

list; in 2024 it provided 2298

sessions.

The Be Centre does not

qualify for the Medicare

rebate and scholarships

are offered to families who

can’t afford the therapy.

Funding comes from grants,

foundations, corporate and

private donors and an annual

44 MAY 2025


HANDS-ON: Deborah overseeing a crucial water project in Laos.

charity gala, which this year

is on Friday 30 May at the

Manly Pacific Hotel.

“I felt proud and incredibly

honoured I’d received this,”

Deborah says about her AM.

Her greatest hope is that it

brings more attention to Be

Centre. “Every now and again

I think, I’m 73… I wonder

when all this is going to stop.

Then a parent says to me,

‘you’ve changed our family’s

lives’. And that’s why I do it.”

*For more info on the Be

Centre Annual Charity

Gala on 30 May at the

Manly Pacific Hotel, which

includes a three-course

dinner and entertainment,

visit becentre.org.au/

events; for info on The

Charitable Foundation go to

thecharitablefoundation.org

Life Stories


MAY 2025 45

Hot Property

Character-filled, laid-back living

Peaceful setting (tick), weatherboard (tick) bright white interiors (tick) and floorboards (tick, tick, tick, tick) –

kick off your shoes and embrace the coastal vibe of these three beaches beauties. – By Lisa Offord

Experience the best of both worlds with filtered ocean horizons and

leafy Pittwater views from this character-filled 1950s beachcomber

house with timber floors, exposed rafters and V-groove panelling.

This spacious coastal home at 86 Riviera Avenue Avalon Beach

features a flexible floorplan with five-bedrooms, multiple living zones,

and a dedicated home office, offering ample space for a growing

family. The interiors exude warmth and character and embrace the

summer breeze and winter sun. Thoughtfully designed for a laidback

lifestyle, the selling agents say its adaptable layout fosters both

connection and calm. Set on 695 square metres this sanctuary by the

sea, immersed in the tree tops and nature’s beauty is also moments

to everything the village has to offer. Auction May 13. Contact Olivia

Broomhead LJ Hooker Avalon Beach or or David Edwards LJ Hooker

Palm Beach.

Hot Property

This enchanting weatherboard residence is peacefully positioned on

a 626 square metre block at 32 The Avenue Newport. Meticulously

updated and boasting a rear-north aspect, the three-bedroom, twobathroom

home is light-filled and inviting, ideal for both growing families

and downsizers. All bedrooms are generous in size and are comfortably

appointed with built-in robes and ceiling fans. The sleek main bathroom

has pristine modern finishes and rainfall shower. Flexible lower-level

space with bathroom and laundry holds potential for use as a home

office, gym or rumpus room with extra space for storage. Sophisticated

engineered oak floors, high-end air-conditioning /air purifier, classic

white plantation shutters complete the picture. The agent says with a

flawless single-level layout, this property also presents future potential

for expansion and enhanced Pittwater views if you were to build up a

level (STCA). Contact Jane Gamson at Cunninghams Avalon Beach.

This home oozes classic beaches elegance. With plenty of space over

its three levels and two entertaining decks to soak up the outdoors it

offers a serene Pittwater retreat in a setting at the high end of a quiet

cul de sac at 13 De Lauret Avenue Newport. From its low-key entrance

the stylish entertainer unfolds to reveal expansive light-filled living

areas with a contemporary coastal aesthetic and stunning hilltop views.

The classic styled kitchen has a timber-topped island with a convection

cooktop and premium cabinetry. There are three spacious bedrooms and

a luxe master suite with floor-to-ceiling plantation shutters showcasing a

garden view plus a walk-through dressing room and ensuite. The serene

bathroom has an oversized tub and leafy outlook. The ground floor

living space extends to a second viewing deck and includes a sauna, hot

tub and extra bathroom. Auction May 10. Guide $2.45 million. Contact

Amy Young or Matthew Young Laing+Simmons Avalon Beach.

46 MAY 2025


Health & Wellbeing

Early season flu concerns

Health & Wellbeing

Doctors are urging people

to get the latest flu shot

and take steps to limit the

spread of infection following a

record number of early season

influenza cases.

An unexpected surge in influenza

case numbers, coupled

with decreased immunisation

rates, has top health experts

raising the alarm.

Australia was seeing the

highest numbers of influenza

infections ever seen outside of

the traditional flu season, said

Medical Director at CSL Seqirus

Jules Bayliss.

Several factors were at play,

including people being tested

more frequently and greater

accessibility of testing.

“But there’s also more flu circulating,

and we’ve seen really

big numbers in the Northern

Hemisphere over the last three

or four months as well.”

The Northern Hemisphere

has just experienced a

significant influenza season,

with some UK hospitals overwhelmed

by the Winter peak

and the US recording the largest

influenza season since the

2009 swine flu pandemic.

In Australia, lab-confirmed

cases of influenza were 50%

higher than this time last year,

and likely only scratching the

surface of the true number,

according the to the Royal

Australian College of General

Practitioners (RACGP).

RACGP president Michael

Wright said the increase in

cases indicated an early start to

the flu season, warning influenza

must be taken seriously.

“This is a virus that takes

lives, and an early start to the

flu season is an ominous sign,”

Dr Wright said.

“The number one step you

can take to help keep you, your

family, and your community as

safe as possible, is to get vaccinated.”

Influenza vaccines are recommended

for everyone aged over

six months of age, and higher

risk patients have access to free

vaccinations under the National

Immunisation Program.

On the Northern Beaches a

considerable number of people

have already been struck down

by the flu, Ethel Gilbert of Gilbert

Collins Medical Practice in

Mona Vale told Pittwater Life.

“We have already seen

significant numbers of proven

influenza A and B in our community

with very unwell people

presenting with fevers, myalgia

and general ill health,” said

Dr Gilbert.

“I have also had an increase

in numbers of young patients

being admitted to hospital with

proven influenza.”

Dr Gilbert was also seeing

increased numbers of respiratory

syncytial virus (RSV).

“Further, Australia is following

the USA who reported a

significantly severe influenza

season and doctors have been

advised to also to be aware of a

quad-demic,” Dr Gilbert said.

“Although the trifecta of

flu, COVID-19 and RSV are

commonly paired, norovirus

outbreaks around the United

48 MAY 2025


States have added to concerns

of a quad-demic,” she said.

Dr Wright warned a surge

of influenza cases over Winter

would place tremendous strain

on the health system.

“More than 1,000 deaths last

year involved the flu, a 67.3%

increase on 2023, while more

than 4,200 people were admitted

to hospital,” Dr Wright said.

“When you consider that

2024 also saw 2,503 people die

from COVID-19 and 78 from

RSV, it’s easy to see how a ‘perfect

storm’ of infection could

push our health system to near

breaking point.”

Dr Wright said some patient

groups, including young children,

were especially at risk.

“Children under five are at

higher risk of experiencing

much more serious illness, so

it’s particularly troubling that

vaccination rates in children in

this age bracket dropped from

30.3% in 2023 to 25.8% last

year,” he said.

Other patient groups at risk

of serious illness include people

aged over 65, Aboriginal and

Torres Strait Islander people,

pregnant women, individuals

with certain medical conditions

such as HIV, cardiac disease

and chronic respiratory conditions,

those who smoke, as well

as patients who are immunocompromised.

“Vaccination rates have declined

steadily among patients

aged 65 and older, from 69%

in 2022, to 63.6% in 2023 and

just 61.1% last year, which is

a concerning trajectory,” Dr

Wright said.

“The flu is a serious illness,

and this year is looking

especially dire, so let’s work

together and get vaccinated.”

Also, added Dr Gilbert, good

hygiene practices, washing

hands, covering coughs etc, can

also help reduce transmission

and if unwell, limit the spread

by staying at home.

The peak influenza season

typically runs from June to

September in most parts of

Australia with annual flu jabs

recommended from mid-April

onwards.

Vaccination lasts throughout

the year, but protection is

highest in the first three to four

months. – Lisa Offord

Health & Wellbeing


MAY 2025 49

Health & Wellbeing

with Dr John Kippen

Health & Wellbeing

Knowledge and treatment

of Breast Implant Illness (BII)

Every year, around 20,000

women in Australia choose

to get breast implants for

cosmetic or reconstructive

reasons. However, a condition

called Breast Implant Illness

(BII) is becoming increasingly

recognised among those with

implants. This condition is also

referred to as breast implant

disease, silicone implant disease,

and autoimmune/inflammatory

syndrome induced by

adjuvants (ASIA).

What is Breast Implant Illness?

Breast Implant Illness encompasses

a variety of symptoms

experienced by individuals

with breast implants. These

symptoms can differ greatly

in type and severity, often affecting

multiple body systems,

including musculoskeletal, systemic

and cognitive functions.

Although there is currently no

official medical diagnosis for

BII, awareness of the condition

is growing, and this may

change in the future. Symptoms

can include joint and muscle

pain, chronic fatigue, and signs

resembling autoimmune diseases.

Some patients may find

relief by having their implants

and the surrounding scar tissue

(capsule) removed.

Official Recommendations

In 2020, the US Food and Drug

Administration (FDA) urged

breast implant manufacturers

to label their products

with warnings about potential

systemic symptoms associated

with implants. More research

is necessary to enhance our

understanding, recognition, and

management of BII.

Diagnosis & Causes

Diagnosing BII involves ruling

out other medical conditions

and observing if symptoms improve

after removing implants.

There’s no specific test for BII;

doctors evaluate based on the

patient’s symptoms. Typically,

patients seeking help have

undergone tests before visiting

a plastic surgeon. The exact

cause of BII remains unclear, but

it may stem from an autoimmune

or inflammatory response,

or from low-grade bacteria

forming a biofilm on the

implant surface. BII has been

reported in patients with both

silicone and saline implants,

whether textured or smooth,

regardless of shape. There appears

to be a connection with

autoimmune disorders.

When Do Symptoms Appear?

Symptoms of BII can start

anywhere from a few months

to several years after receiving

implants. While the precise

incidence of BII is unknown, it

seems to be on the rise, potentially

due to increased awareness

of the condition.

Treatment Options

The primary treatment for BII

involves the surgical removal

of the implants (explantation)

and the surrounding scar tissue

(capsulectomy). There are different

methods for removing

the capsule, including partial,

subtotal, or complete removal.

Some surgeons recommend an

‘en bloc’ capsulectomy, where

both the implant and capsule

are removed as a single unit.

It’s essential to note that BII is

distinct from Breast Implant

Associated Anaplastic Large Cell

Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), which is

a type of cancer that can occur

in the tissue surrounding the

implants. There is no known

link between BII and cancer.

Prevention & Risk Factors

There are no definitive guidelines

for preventing BII since

its cause is still unclear. Some

women may consider switching

to a different type of implant or

placement location, though this

does not guarantee prevention.

Certain individuals may be at

higher risk for developing BII,

especially those with a personal

or family history of autoimmune

conditions, allergies, irritable

bowel syndrome, migraines,

chronic fatigue, or fibromyalgia.

Conclusion

Breast Implant Illness is a complex

condition that is increasingly

recognised among women

with breast implants. While

the exact causes and effective

preventive measures remain

elusive, understanding BII can

empower patients to make

informed decisions about their

health and treatment options.

Our columnist

Dr John Kippen is a qualified,

fully certified consultant

specialist in Plastic and

Reconstructive surgery.

Australia-trained, he

also has additional

Australian and International

Fellowships. He welcomes

reader enquiries; email

doctor@johnkippen.com.au

50 MAY 2025


Health & Wellbeing

Pittwater Hearing turns 10

Health & Wellbeing

Audiologist Emma van Wanrooy

realised that to truly excel in her field

and provide hard-of-hearing people

with the most comprehensive care, she

would need to create her own clinic.

Emma, who never envisaged operating

her own business, opened Pittwater Hearing

in April 2015 as the sole employee – the

clinic is now celebrating its 10th Birthday

with a team of five. In a decade it has met

the needs of more than 2800 clients.

“Audiology in Australia has grown exponentially

over the last 27 years, but most

large organisations believe to be profitable

they need to focus on hearing aid sales… I

knew there was a better way,” Emma said.

Emma’s experience across a range of

areas in Audiology – research, paediatrics,

cochlear implants and hearing aid fittings

and as a Clinical Leader – provided her with

the skills to develop Pittwater Hearing’s

unique model of care which focuses on:

• Meeting clients at their stage. “We don’t

focus on convincing everyone to wear

hearing aids. People might come to us

because they are experiencing tinnitus

or a middle ear problem. Others may

CELEBRATING: Emma (second left) with the Team.

notice their hearing is starting to decline.

Through our comprehensive testing,

we can advise the client on how their

performance, listening to speech in quiet

and in noise, compares to normal hearers.

Even if we think hearing aids could

be beneficial, if the client is not ready,

we can advise on how to manage tricky

situations”.

• Optimising hearing aids. A standard

clinic will generally see clients once after

a hearing aid fitting and then once a year

after that. “We will test exactly what a

client is hearing with their hearing aids

and make adjustments to ensure they

have access to the whole speech range…

we keep working with a client until we

achieve the best possible outcomes.”

• Services to meet all hearing needs.

“Several clients have gone from hearing

aids to cochlear implants, and we have

worked with them through the whole

process, linking them with Sydney’s best

Cochlear Implant surgeons, providing

a comprehensive rehabilitation plan,

conducting the switch-on and ongoing

mapping of the sound.” Pittwater Hearing

also assesses Auditory Processing in

children and provides services to protect

clients’ hearing from noise exposure, and

for people with tinnitus.

The team is proud to build long-term

relationships with clients and enjoy being

part of the community.

“Our Avalon clinic is bursting at the

seams, and we now have a visiting site at

Gilbert Collins Medical Practice in Mona

Vale,” Emma said.

The future sounds great for Pittwater

Hearing.

– Lisa Offord

52 MAY 2025


Hair & Beauty

with Sue Carroll

The Undetectable Era: ‘subtle’

steps to enhancing confidence

The beauty industry is constantly

evolving; today we

are entering the ‘Undetectable

Era’ – with a movement

that prioritises subtle enhancements

over obvious cosmetic

alterations. This shift embraces

techniques, treatments, and

products designed to enhance

natural beauty while preserving

individuality. Gone are the days

of excessive cosmetic procedures

that immediately stand

out. Instead, the goal is to refine

and refresh – helping individuals

look like the best version

of themselves rather than a

completely different person.

For my clients, the aim is a

fresh, well-rested and youthful

appearance – without anyone

being able to pinpoint exactly

what has changed. This era is

being driven by a combination

of cutting-edge technology, innovative

techniques, and a cultural

move away from extreme

beauty trends. The demand for

exaggerated facelifts, overfilled

cheeks and lips, and harsh

contouring is waning in favour

of sophisticated, personalised

treatments that deliver naturallooking

results.

Here are some of the most

sought-after treatments shaping

the Undetectable Era:

Regenerative Skin Boosters

Regenerative skin boosters are

becoming increasingly popular

for their ability to revitalise,

hydrate, and improve overall

skin quality.

One of the most talked-about

skin boosters involves exosomes,

salmon DNA, and PRP

(platelet-rich plasma) – a powerful

combination known for its

ability to repair and regenerate

skin at a cellular level.

Skin Brightening &

Tightening Procedures

A combination of advanced

technologies is now being

used to restore skin firmness,

improve tone, and address

concerns like pigmentation, fine

lines, and laxity. Key treatments

include:


• Radio Frequency (RF)

Microneedling – This combines

microneedling with radio

frequency energy to stimulate

collagen production and rejuvenate

the skin (pictured). A highly

effective approach is to perform

one or two regular microneedling

sessions over 1–3 weeks

to trigger angiogenesis (the

formation of new blood vessels),

followed by an RF microneedling

session for deeper skin

tightening.

• Advanced Laser Rejuvenation

– Various laser modalities

can be used to address

pigmentation, capillaries, and

collagen loss. Intense Pulsed

Light (IPL), fractional laser, and

Q-switched laser treatments

can target stubborn pigmentation

while stimulating collagen

renewal. Layering different

laser treatments within a single

session is an effective way to

tackle multiple concerns simultaneously.

• HIFU (High-Intensity Focused

Ultrasound) – HIFU technology

penetrates deeper layers

of the skin than RF microneedling,

targeting the dermis and

foundational support structures.

This treatment tightens

and firms the skin, reducing

sagging, lifting the jawline,

and refining contours. HIFU

stimulates elastin and collagen

production, strengthens facial

muscles, and helps reduce the

appearance of nasolabial folds

and under-chin fat deposits.

Injectables: The Art

of Subtle Enhancement

Expertly placed injectables can

refresh and balance the face

while maintaining a completely

natural look.

• Neuromodulators (eg, Dysport,

Xeomin) – These treatments

smooth fine lines and

wrinkles, subtly lift the brows,

open the eyes, and slim the

jawline. When administered

by skilled practitioners, they

provide a refreshed, youthful

effect without freezing facial

expressions.

• Hyaluronic Acid-Based

Fillers – Unlike the overly

plumped look of past decades,

today’s approach to

fillers focuses on subtle volume

restoration. Strategically

placed hyaluronic acid fillers

can address under-eye hollows,

enhance cheek contours,

and soften nasolabial folds for

a rejuvenated yet undetectable

result.

Personalised Approach

The Undetectable Era is about

enhancing confidence by refining

natural beauty rather than

reshaping it. By embracing

sophisticated and subtle treatments,

achieving a radiant,

refreshed look has never been

easier. The goal is not to look

different – but to look like the

best version of you.

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 2025 53

Health Hair & Wellbeing Beauty

Business Life: Money

with Brian Hrnjak

Business Life

Everyone’s a ‘winner’ as

Mackellar heads to the polls

This month, a local’s eye

view on the how the federal

election campaign is

going… I’m sure the publisher

will take a hard and serious

look at this month’s poll

elsewhere in the magazine;

my take will be slightly more

cynical.

Heading into the New Year,

most of us expected that Sophie

Scamps would recontest

Mackellar as the incumbent

Teal member and that the

main game in Mackellar would

be a head-to-head contest

with James Brown, preselected

last November, for the Liberal

party. Brown is a former Army

officer and if this election was

being run 20 years ago he

would have been the candidate

from central casting. In

this day and age, however, he

will be marked down for not

being a woman, only recently

taking up residence in the

area and for also being the

former son-in-law of Malcolm

Turnbull; the last factor being

something that many ultra-

Liberals up here cannot get

past.

Locally, the two main

candidates had an opportunity

to shape up to each other

in February with Northern

Beaches Council’s controversial

40 per cent rate hike. Brown

was strong out of the gates

attending the Council meeting

to protest the rise on cost-ofliving

grounds. Sophie Scamps

and Zali Steggall issued media

statements also opposing the

increase. The Liberals sought

UNDERDOG: James Brown.

to link Scamps and Steggall

with the majority Independent

councillors who voted for

the increase, showing photos

of the federal members

(and in Scamps’ case, video)

supporting these councillors

during the local government

elections. (Scamps somewhat

bizarrely went on to blame the

Council’s actions on the absent

liberal councillors who failed to

even nominate for the election

due to a head office stuff-up.)

At a federal level, the opening

salvos to the election

were properly fired on Budget

night in March. Locally the

headline issue was Mona Vale

Road, with the budget including

$240 million to complete

the widening of Mona Vale

Road. Now, as fellow cynics all

know, success has many parents,

but failure is an orphan.

So, while no-one wanted to be

associated with the culprits

responsible for voting through

the Northern Beaches Council

rate increase, you would have

been knocked over in the rush

as politicians jostled to claim

the road funding win as their

doing.

But was it a win or more art

of the deal? We had a funded

road expansion project on

the books but the Minns State

Government took it all away in

2023 following their election

on the grounds of ‘priorities

elsewhere’.

As reported in the Northern

Beaches Advocate: “Federal

Minister for Infrastructure,

Transport, Regional Development

and Local Government

Minister Catherine King confirmed

the funding announcement

would be made in the

Federal Budget. ‘I’m pleased

our Government will be able to

deliver much-needed funding

for the Mona Vale Road

upgrade. It’s critical that this

work gets underway so we can

ease traffic congestion and

improve safety.”

Priorities are such a funny

thing – that our congestion and

safety here on the beaches are

now suddenly more important

(immediately prior to an

election) than the congestion

and safety in Western Sydney

or Regional NSW that was a

key priority back only in 2023

(immediately after an elec-

54 MAY 2025


tion). But in 2023, the Albanese

Government wasn’t facing the

prospect of minority government

with the cross benchers

possibly vital to retaining

power. I can only wonder what

happens to this very portable

funding and very movable

priorities if Albanese wins an

outright majority?

In making this funding reallocation

the federal Labor

party effectively gutted its

local candidate Jeffrey Quinn

who despite a campaign

launch with some local Labor

heavies and an honourable

mention in the press article

above is effectively running

only to promote the Labor

brand. This could explain

why when I saw him leaflet

dropping in Mona Vale CBD

recently he was sliding the

leaflets under the doors of

businesses and not actually

engaging with anyone.

Election funding is paid by

the Australian Electoral Commission

to a candidate that

polls above 4 per cent of the

primary votes at the rate of

something like $3.40 per vote.

Based on the 2022 results the

only recipients would have

been Teal (37,700 primary

votes), Liberals (41,000), Labor

(8,200) and the Greens

(6,000).

Speaking of the Greens,

young Ethan Hrnjak is back

for another crack in another

election and by all accounts

from those who have seen

him, he is a very capable and

impressive young fellow who

one day will likely be successful

and grow out of this

Greens thing. (And for the

sake of clarity, if I can quote

Michael Jackson: the kid is not

my son. Despite our unusual

surnames, there are lots more

of us in Croatia.)

So where are we likely to

finish this election race? I’m no

Anthony Green but based on

the vibe and current betting

odds I would expect to see a

Labor Government returned,

possibly with a small majority.

A minority government

would be interesting as we

don’t really have clarity on

which way the Teals might

break if the situation arises

but I think all of us would love

to avoid a repeat of the Oakeshott

/ Windsor speeches and

uncertainty of the 2010 Gillard

minority government era.

Locally, I’d expect to see

Sophie Scamps returned based

on the number of signs (at

least 2 of hers to every 1 Liberal

corflute) and betting odds

of $1.35 versus $3 (and $26

for anyone else).

Speaking of signs, many

locals have noticed a strange

phenomenon occurring once a

week or so at Kamikaze Corner

roundabout in Avalon. Every

other sign is being shredded,

with only one remaining asking

you to Vote 1 for your local

stonemason, Damo. Apparently,

he’s not just a pretty

face. Good luck Damo.

Brian Hrnjak B Bus CPA (FPS) is

a Director of GHR Accounting

Group Pty Ltd, Certified Practising

Accountants. Office: Suite 12,

Ground Floor, 20 Bungan Street

Mona Vale NSW.

Phone: 02 9979-4300.

Web: ghr.com.au and altre.com.au

Email: brian@ghr.com.au

These comments are general

advice only and are not intended as

a substitute for professional advice.

This article is not an offer or

recommendation of any securities

or other financial products offered

by any company or person.

Business Life


MAY 2025 55

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.

Breezy Airconditioning

Call 9174 5373

New system installations; repairs; all makes

and models. Local, family owned. Transparent

pricing, free quotes.

AIRPORT TRANSFERS

TeslaAirportTransfers

Call Ben 0405 544 311

New Tesla Model Y fleet; Airport transfer

Mona Vale ($129), Avalon ($139), Palmy ($149).

Guaranteed on-time pick-up.

ARCHITECTURAL PLANS

Cade Turner Design

Call Cade 0432 366 221

Award-winning designs. New homes, rebuilds

and additions; renovations and extensions plus

Granny Flats & Studios. Award-winning designs.

BATTERIES

Battery Business

Call 9970 6999

Batteries for all applications. Won’t be beaten on

price or service. Free testing, 7 days.

BUILDING

Right Build

Call Ian 0468 710 834

Local building, maintenance, repairs &

upgrades including decks, plaster walls,

brickwork, rendering, tiling, windows, doors,

painting. Site & property prep ready for sale.

CARPENTRY

Able Carpentry & Joinery

Call Cameron 0418 608 398

Avalon-based. Doors & locks, timber gates &

handrails, decking repairs and timber replacement.

Also privacy screens. 25 years’ experience. Lic:

7031C.

Isaac’s Carpentry

Call 0408 344 388

Building, carpentry, painting, interior & exterior.

Including decks, pergolas, doors, locks,

screens etc. Also timber rot repairs & painting.

Narrabeen-based, 30 years’ experience.

Lic 94555C

CAR SALE & REMOVAL

Cash for Cars

Call Wal 0425 304 475

Damaged, unregistered car on your property?

Will beat any offer from dealer; also free towaway

service.

CLEANING

Amazing Clean

Call Andrew 0412 475 287

Specialists in blinds, curtains and awnings.

Clean, repair, supply new.

CONCRETING

Adrians Concrete

Call Adrian 0404 172 435

Driveways, paths, slabs… all your concreting

needs; Northern Beaches-based.

ELECTRICAL

Alliance Service Group

Call Adrian 9063 4658

All services & repairs, 24hr. Lighting installation,

switchboard upgrade. Seniors discount 5%.

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.

Eamon Dowling Electrical

Call Eamon 0410 457 373

For all electrical needs including phone, TV and

data. Pittwater-based. Reliable; quality service

guaranteed.

Northern Power & Lighting

Call Daniel 0431 593 171

Lighting design & upgrades; power point

56 MAY 2025


installations, ceiling fans. Domestic /

commercial. Pittwater-based; free quotes.

Warrick Leggo

Call Warrick 0403 981 941

Specialising in domestic work; small jobs

welcome. Seniors’ discount; Narrabeen-based.

FLOOR COVERINGS

Blue Tongue Carpets

Call Castro 9979 7292

Owner/operator of Northern Beaches Flooring

Centre. Owner/operator, Mona Vale. 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.

Abloom Landscapes

Call 1300 225007

Local landscaper established 2003; design &

construction, horticulture & maintenance. TLA

Member.

Campos Tree Services

Call Paulo 0403 941 883

Over 20 years servicing Pittwater. All tree work

including stump grinding. Fully qualified team.

Conscious Gardener Avalon

Call Matt 0411 750 791

Professional local team offering quality garden

maintenance, horticultural advice; also garden

makeovers.

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.

HOT WATER

Cheapa Hot Water

Call 0410 693 532

Fast water heater repair, replacement &

installation service. No call-out fee, emergency

assistance.

Hot Water Maintenance NB

Call 9982 1265

Local emergency specialists, 7 days. Sales,

service, installation. Warranty agents, fully

accredited.

JEWELLER

Gold ‘n’ Things

Call 9999 4991

Specialists in remodelling. On-premises

(Mona Vale) workshop for cleaning, repairing

(including laser welding), polishing. Family

owned for 40 years.

KITCHENS

Collaroy Kitchen Centre

Call 9972 9300

Danish design excellence. Local beaches

specialists in kitchens, bathrooms and joinery.

Visit the showroom in Collaroy.

MASSAGE & FITNESS

Avalon Physiotherapy

Call 9918 3373

Provide specialist treatment for neck & back

pain, sports injuries, orthopaedic problems.

PAINTING

Actarus Painting Services

Call 0429 121 901

Local professional painting, interior & exterior.

Staining decks. Also repairs, plus painting of

furniture.

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.

Trades & Services

Ken Wilson Roofing

Call 0419 466 783

Leaking roofs, tile repairs, tiles replaced,

metal roof repairs, gutter cleaning, valley irons

replaced.

HANDYMEN

Local Handyman

Call Jono 0413 313 299

Small and medium-sized building jobs, also

welding & metalwork; licensed.


MAY 2025 57

Trades & Services

Trades & Services

PEST CONTROL

Eco Expert

Call 0405 062 676

Ecopestexpert.com.au

Environmentally responsible & effective treatment

for cockroaches, spiders, fleas, ants, wasps,

rodents, possums, bed bugs & birds.

Predator Pest Control

Call 0417 276 962

predatorpestcontrol.com.au

Environmental services at their best. Comprehensive

control. Eliminate all manner of pests.

PLUMBING

Palm Beach Plumbing

Call 0413 603 019

Local blocked drain specialist; fix leaking taps &

toilets, pipe relining, same-day hot water repairs

and replacement. Affordable rates, free quote.

Platinum Plumbers & Pipe

Relining

Call Rhys 0421 637 410

Northern Beaches Plumbers, all general

plumbing and specialists in blocked drains.

Total Pipe Relining

Call Josh 0423 600 455

Repair pipe problems without replacement.

Drain systems fully relined; 35 years’ guarantee.

Latest technology, best price.

REMOVALISTS / PACKING

NB Removals

Call Greg 0417 253 634

Owner/operator, Avalon-based. For local /

country / interstate requirements. Reputation

(30+) years built on excellence in furniture

removing. Trucks regularly upgraded.

Pack & Unpack U

Call Lynne 0414 988 919

Professional local ladies will pack and unpack

your clothes/belongings; also declutter and

organise your home.

RENOVATIONS

BlindLight

Call Dave 0403 466 350

Specialists in window tintings and glass

coatings. Act now as the weather gets hotter!

RUBBISH REMOVAL

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.

WINDOW CLEANING

Local Window Cleaning

Call Simon 0406 389 841

Free quote; Mona Vale-based window cleaning

micro-details specialist. Reasonable price, no

subcontractor, the owner does it himself. Fully

insured.

Advertise

your Business

in Trades &

Services

section

Ph: 0438 123 096

58 MAY 2025


Trades & Services


MAY 2025 59

Food Life

with Janelle Bloom

Food Life

Recipes: janellebloom.com.au; Insta: instagram.com/janellegbloom/

The crepe escape: Sweet

or savoury they’re a winner

Who doesn’t love crepes? These thin,

delicate classic French pancakes

are enjoyed worldwide. Whether it’s

sweet or savory, filled, rolled or folded, crepes

Basic crepe recipe

Makes 24

2½ cups (625ml) full cream

milk

3 large eggs

20g butter, melted, cooled

1½ cups (225g) plain flour

Pinch salt

2 tsp caster sugar

Ghee (clarified butter), melted

for cooking (see Janelle’s Tip)

1. In this order: add the milk,

eggs, butter, flour, salt and

sugar to a blender. Blend

on medium speed until

smooth. Pour into a bowl,

cover and refrigerate 1

hour (this is important as it

helps gluten relax, meaning

crepes will be tender).

2. Remove from the fridge,

stand 15 minutes then stir

gently to combine batter

again.

3. Heat a 20cm (base) crepe

pan or non-stick frying pan

over medium heat. Brush

with a little melted ghee.

Pour 2 tablespoons (40ml)

of batter into the centre of

the pan, quickly tilt the pan

back and forth until batter

covers the base of the pan.

offer plenty of delicious options. Perfect for

breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a snack, their

simplicity and elegance make them a favorite

for all occasions!

Cook for 1-2 minutes until

the edges start to curl. Turn

and cook for a further 1

minute. Slide the crepe,

lacy side down onto a tray.

Cover with a tea towel.

Repeat for the remaining

batter and ghee to make 24

crepes. Crepes will keep in

an airtight container in the

fridge for 3 days.

Janelle’s Tips:

#1. No blender? You can make

them in a large food processor

(use the pulse button) or

by hand in a large bowl. If

making by hand, add the dry

ingredients to the bowl, mix

the wet ingredients and add

them ½ cup at a time, whisking

until batter is smooth.

Ghee won’t burn when you

brush it over the base of the

warm pan. Butter can burn

giving a ‘burnt butter’ taste to

the crepes. You will find ghee

in the Indian section of the

supermarket. Once opened

store in the fridge.

#2. You can freeze crepes…

which is why when I make

them, I like to make 24. Once

cooled, place a square of

baking paper between each

crepe and stack on top of each

other. Place into a freezer bag,

remove air and secure bag.

Freeze for up to 6 months.

#3. To reheat, reheat 3-4 at a

time, stacked on a plate, cover

with paper towel. Heat on Medium/50%

in 1-minute bursts.

Baked chicken

and mushroom

crepes with

bechamel sauce

Makes 12 (Serves 4-6)

12 crepes

1 tbs olive oil

400g mixed mushrooms (like

button, cup and Swiss brown),

sliced

1 small brown onion, finely

chopped

1 tbs fresh thyme leaves

2 cups shredded cooked

chicken

½ cup grated mozzarella

Bechamel sauce

90g butter, chopped

½ cup plain flour

3 cups full cream milk (see Tip)

½ cup grated parmesan

cheese, plus extra to serve

1. For the bechamel, melt butter

in a medium saucepan

over medium-high heat until

foaming. Add flour. Cook,

stirring, for 1-2 minutes

or until bubbling. Remove

from heat. Slowly add milk,

whisking constantly, until

mixture is smooth. Return

to heat. Cook, stirring

with a wooden spoon, for

10 minutes or until sauce

comes to the boil and thickens.

Remove from heat.

Stir in parmesan, season.

Remove ½ cup to a bowl, for

the top.

2. Heat a frying pan over high

heat until hot. Add half

the oil and mushrooms,

sauté 4-5 minutes until soft.

Remove ¼ cup to a bowl.

Reduce heat to medium,

add remaining oil and onion

to the mushrooms, cook 4-5

minutes until onion is soft.

Stir mushroom mixture into

the bechamel sauce with

the thyme and chicken.

3. Stir the mozzarella into the

reserved ½ cup bechamel.

Preheat oven to 180°C fan

forced.

4. Place 1 crepe on a clean

work surface (lacy side

down). Top with ¼ cup

chicken mixture. Fold into

quarters to enclose the filling.

Repeat with remaining

crepes and mixture. Place 6

crepes, overlapping into the

60 MAY 2025


For more recipes go to janellebloom.com.au

base of well-greased, large

baking dish. Spoon over

half the reserved bechamel.

Repeat the layers with

remaining crepes and bechamel.

Top with reserved

mushrooms. Bake for

15-20 minutes until warmed

through. Sprinkle with extra

parmesan. Serve.

Tip: It’s best to use full cream

milk to make a sauce, as the

fat helps to thicken the sauce

and reduced fat milk can split

when boiled. If using reduced

fat milk, you will need to increase

the flour to 2/3 cup for

this recipe

Ham &

cheese crepes

Makes 12

12 crepes, warmed

150g Gruyere Cheese, grated

12 tsp Dijon mustard

2 tbs thyme leaves, optional

12 slices ham

1. Preheat oven 150°C fan

forced.

2. Divide the cheese into 12

portions. Place 1 crepe on

a clean work surface (lacy

side down).

3. Spread 1 teaspoon mustard

over the crepe. Sprinkle

with thyme. Top with ham

and cheese. Fold the crepe

in half and half again. Place

onto a lightly greased oven

tray. Repeat to make 12

crepes. Cover loosely with

foil.

4. Place the crepes into the

oven. Warm for 15 minutes

until cheese melted. Serve.

Tips: If crepes are cold, to

prevent them splitting when


folding, warm 1-2 at a time,

in the microwave for 10-15

seconds before starting Step

2. Other delicious cheeses that

melt well include Provolone,

Gouda, Taleggio, Mozzarella

(but add Parmesan or cheddar

for flavour).

Raspberry cheesecake

crepe pillows

Makes 12

12 crepes

250g cream cheese, at room

temperature

1/3 cup caster sugar

2 tsp vanilla extract

2 tbs sour cream

125g fresh raspberries, plus

extra to serve

Icing sugar & honey to serve

1. Beat the cream cheese,

sugar and vanilla together

until smooth and creamy.

Fold in the sour cream.

Place the raspberries onto

a plate, lightly crush with

a fork. Fold through the

cream cheese mixture.

Divide the mixture into 12

equal portions.

2. Place one crepe on a clean

work surface (lacy side

down). Spoon raspberry

filling in the centre of the

crepe. Fold the left and

right sides towards the

middle, the folds should

overlap slightly. Fold the

upper and bottom sides towards

the middle, creating

a square ‘pillow’.

3. Preheat oven 150°C fan

forced. Place crepes in a

single layer, folded side

down, onto a tray lined with

baking paper. Bake 5-10

minutes until warm. Dust

with icing sugar, drizzle

with honey and serve with

extra raspberries.

2 tbs instant espresso coffee

powder

600ml thickened cream

500g mascarpone

¼ cup icing sugar

100g dark or milk chocolate,

grated

Roasted coffee beans, to decorate,

optional

1. Warm the Kahlua in a

small bowl for 10-15

seconds in the microwave

on High/100%. Stir in the

espresso powder, mix well.

Refrigerate until cold.

2. Meanwhile, whip cream

to soft peaks. Fold in the

mascarpone (see Tip) and

icing sugar. Remove 1 cup

to a smaller bowl. Refrigerate

until ready to assemble.

Carefully, fold the cooled

coffee mixture into the

Tiramisu

large bowl. Refrigerate 1

hour to firm slightly.

crepe cake

3. To assemble, place 1 crepe

Serves 8-10

onto the base of serving

platter. Spread with a thick

10-12 crepes

layer coffee mascarpone

2 tbs Kahlua

cream, repeat layers using

remaining crepes and coffee

cream, finishing with a

crepe.

4. Spread the reserved mascarpone

mixture over the

top and side of the cake.

Refrigerate 1-2 hours until

firm.

5. To serve, sprinkle the top of

the cake with chocolate and

coffee beans if using. Cut

into wedges with a warm

knife.

Tip: Take care when folding

in mascarpone, it can curdle

easily, it will fold easily if

the cream is soft, like thick

custard.

MAY 2025 61

Food Life

Tasty Morsels

with Renata Gortan

Some Tiny Morsels to savour in May

Graze on these crispy

pork belly banh mi

Graze N Cakes does cakes, obviously.

But locals flock to this little bakery for its

fresh and flavoursome Vietnamese food,

from steaming bowls of pho to zingy

noodle salads and banh mi generously

stuffed with crispy pork belly, pulled

pork or tofu and lemongrass. Go early,

it closes at 1.30pm or until sold out. And

they do sell out.

Tasty Morsels

New coffee bliss for

all soccer parents

Sleep-deprived soccer parents rejoice!

My Gosh Mona Vale has partnered with

Pittwater RSL Soccer Club to provide

very good coffee when they play at

home at Kitchener Park. There’s a

small canteen menu at the ground

and, if you can wait 20 minutes, a

longer menu that is cooked at the cafe

across the road and then delivered to

you at the ground.

Kitchen convo

shifts to new

McCarrs talk

The charming cottage that

housed Berkelo Kitchen in

Terrey Hills is now McCarrs, a

restaurant by Tom and Claudia

Eadie, the founders of Berkelo.

Expect a Mediterraneanleaning

menu that changes

seasonally and a mindfully

sourced wine list. The General

Store is still there and open

daily, selling coffee, justbaked

bread, fresh produce

and pantry goods.

Three of a kind: Oyster happy hours

Oysters are an indulgent

treat, but if you know

where to go you can grab

a delicious bargain. On

Fridays and Saturdays

from 12-3pm, Sydney

Rock oysters are just $3

each at Lovat in Newport

(pictured). On Fridays,

Lovat on the Beach in

Avalon does $3 oysters.

In Mona Vale, Suki

has you covered most

nights of the week. It

does $3 oysters during

happy hour, that’s

Wednesday-Friday 5-6pm

and weekends 4-6pm.

In keeping with its

modern Asian menu, the

oysters are dressed with

coconut, bird’s eye chilli

Basin Dining’s new

Winter specials

The Winter midweek lunch deal is back

on at Basin Dining. From Mondays to

Thursdays, $54 gets you two courses

or it’s $64 for three courses. Choose

from four entree options, five mains

and three desserts. Our picks include

the signature baked scallops in chilli

kombu butter to start and the creamy

fish pie or classic steak frites mains.

and makrut oil.

Oceans is a popular

Narrabeen cafe by day

and restaurant by night.

Whatever the time of

day, it’s always busy. Its

Sunday afternoon Sunday

Sessions from 3pm-6pm

is a great way to end

the week… and take

advantage of $2 oysters!

62 MAY 2025


Pittwater Puzzler

Compiled by David Stickley

forms and geometric

designs (3,4)

27 A crisp knot-shaped or

stick-shaped salted biscuit (7)

28 Location on the western

shores of Pittwater in Kuring-gai

Chase National Park,

________ Retreat (8)

29 A festive or special

occasion (4)

ACROSS

1 Service held at the Catholic

Church of St Joseph, for

example (4)

3 Toast-topper at many a

breakfast table (8)

8 Lengthen (4,3)

9 Vast in extent or degree (7)

11 Herb used as a symbol of

remembrance on Anzac Day (8)

12 Country Club at Ingleside

celebrating its 75th

anniversary this year (6)

14 A short stick passed on

from one runner to the next in

a relay race (5)

16 Type of golf course in Palm

Beach (4-4)

17 A stock or supply that can

be drawn on (8)

19 Model (5)

22 Creative person like Jan

Cristaudo, Jacqueline Payne or

Karen Hick (6)

23 Comes out on top (8)

26 A style of design that was

popular in the 1920s and

1930s, marked by stylised

DOWN

1 Crustacean that inhabits

mangrove regions (3,4)

2 Hopefully a feature of the

Palm Beach Night Sky Event in

May (5)

3 The V in NEVS (10)

4 A pattern of regularly spaced

horizontal and vertical lines,

like this crossword (4)

5 Large extinct elephant with a

hairy coat and curved tusks (7)

6 Long slender flexible

appendages of an octopus (9)

7 Easily got or obtained (6)

10 The signal emitted by

an object being scanned by

radar (4)

13 Puts one’s oar in (10)

15 Number in Macpherson St,

Warriewood of Flower Power

Garden Centre (6-3)

18 Edible bivalve molluscs

found on the shores of

Pittwater (7)

19 A gardener keen on using

secateurs (6)

20 Any of several varieties

of Australian parakeet with

brightly-coloured plumage (7)

21 Tim Bonython’s latest

project, ____ and the Wave (4)

24 Andrew Auricchio’s passion

until now (5)

25 Royal Prince Alfred Yacht

Club is around the corner from

Horseshoe ____ (4)

[Solution page 66]

Pittwater Puzzler


MAY 2025 63

Garden Life

Garden Life

Container plants: The benefits

and tips on caring for them

Container gardening,

indoor plants and

potted plants in

general have gained

immense popularity in

recent years, offering an

innovative way to grow a

wide range of plants without

the need for a traditional

garden space.

Whether you have an

apartment, a small yard or

even a balcony, container

plants can bring nature

to any environment. From

ornamental plants to herbs

and vegetables, container

plants provide a versatile

solution for growing plants

in a confined space.

The Benefits

Space Efficiency – One

of the most significant

advantages of container

gardening is its ability to

maximise limited space. If

you live in an apartment

or have a small yard,

containers allow you to grow

plants where ground space

is not available, depending

on the plant you can place

containers on balconies,

patios, windowsills, or

even indoors near bright

windows. This means you

can have a garden no matter

the size of your living space.

Portability – Container

plants are portable,

which makes them ideal

for gardeners who like

flexibility. You can move

them around to catch the

best sunlight, adjust them

as the seasons change, or

relocate them indoors during

harsh weather conditions.

This mobility allows you to

optimise growing conditions

and protect plants from

unfavourable conditions like

frost, heavy rainfall or strong

winds.

Better Soil Control – Growing

plants in containers gives

you complete control over

the soil. Unlike in-ground

gardening, where soil can

be compacted or depleted

of nutrients, you can select

high quality potting mixes

or blend your own tailored

to the specific needs of

your plants. This allows an

ideal environment that can

promote better growth.

Pest & Diseases – Containers

make it easier to manage

pests and diseases. Since

plants in containers are more

isolated than those in garden

beds, it is often easier to spot

and address issues early. If

pests or diseases do affect

a plant, they are less likely

to spread to other plants in

your collection. Additionally,

container plants are often

easier to treat with targeted

solutions like insecticides or

fungicides.

Aesthetic Appeal –

64 MAY 2025


Compiled by the team at Cicada Glen Nursery, Ingleside.

Containers and plants come

in a wide variety of sizes,

shapes and colours allowing

you to create visually

appealing arrangements.

Whether you prefer a formal,

symmetrical look or a relaxed

whimsical design, containers

can be arranged to enhance

the aesthetics of your

outdoor or indoor spaces.

Additionally, combining

plants with different textures

and colours can create a

striking visual display.

Care

Right Containers – The first

step in successful container

growing is selecting the right

container for your plants.

Ensure the container is large

enough to accommodate the

plant’s root system and has

proper drainage holes to

prevent from waterlogging.

Quality Potting Mixes – Not

all soils are created equal,

and using regular garden

soil in containers can lead

to drainage issues and poor

plant health. Instead, use

a high-quality potting mix

designed for containers

or pots. These mixes are

typically lighter or more open

making them drain well and

quality components that

don’t break down quickly.

Watering – Proper water

regimes are crucial for the

health of container plants.

Because pots have limited

soil volume, they can dry

out faster than garden beds.

Water regularly, but make

sure not to over water and

keep soil wet as this can lead

to root rot. Best to keep it

simple – stick your finger

in the soil, if its wet leave

it, if its dry you can water.

Different plants will rely

on different water regimes,

some plants may only need a

drink every week or two (eg.

Ficus) and others may need

daily watering on warmer

days (eg. Prostanthera).

Fertilising – Container plants

often require more frequent

feeding than garden plants.

Since nutrients in the potting

mix can be depleted over

time and are unavailable,

fertilising ensures your plants

get the nutrients they need.

Use a balanced, slow-release

fertiliser a few times a year

or liquid feed every few

weeks, depending on the

plant’s specific requirements.

For certain native plants

(Proteacea plants) you

may need to apply a low

phosphorus fertiliser.

Sunlight – Different plants

have different sunlight

needs. Some thrive in full

sun, while others do best in

partial or full shade. Ensure

you place your plants in an

area where they will receive

the appropriate amount of

sunlight. Keep an eye on your

plants, and if you notice them

leaning towards the sun, you

may need to rotate them to

promote even growth.

Repotting – As your plants

grow, their root systems

may outgrow the container.

Repotting is essential to

ensure that plants have

enough space to continue

growing. Signs that its time

to repot are roots growing

through the drainage holes,

root bound or stunted growth.

Repot into a larger container

with fresh potting mix or trim

root ball down and put back

into the same container with

fresh potting mix.

Which plant?

Choosing the right plant

for your container depends

on where it will be placed

and how much sunlight is

available to it. You can’t just

put any plant in your living

room and expect it to thrive.

A great option for

containers are plants that

won’t outgrow the pot too

quickly, look for something

that is slow growing or

are too aggressive (eg.

Callistemon, Eucalyptus).

Generally flowering plants,

native sandstone plants,

potted colour and shrubs will

require a sunnier position

whereas rainforest plants,

tropical plants, some ferns

and orchids can thrive in lowlight

conditions.

Your local nursery can

recommend plants for your

situation.

Garden Life


MAY 2025 65

Garden Life

Garden Life

Your mid-Autumn To-Do List…

As Autumn sets in, Sydney

falls into a temperate climate

zone. Now is a great time to

clean up, plant cool-season

crops and prep for Winter.

Clean-Up & Prep

Spent Summer crops – Pull

out old tomato vines, zuchinni,

cucumbers and other warm season

veggies that are no longer

producing. This helps reduce

pests and disease build up along

with overall presentation.

Weed garden beds – Remove

weeds while the soil is still soft

and moist. Getting to them

before they flower or seed will

save time later.

Rake fallen leaves – Use them

as mulch, add to your compost

or green waste. Shredding them

helps them break down faster or

take up less space in the bin.

Clean & sharpen tools – Wash

dirt off spades, secateurs and

shears. Sharpen blades to make

pruning easier and ensure cuts

are clean, preventing disease.

Soil Care

Top up mulch – Adding a

layer of mulch (like sugar cane,

lucerne or woodchip) conserves

soil warmth, suppresses weeds

and improves the soil as the

mulch breaks down.

Add compost or manure – This

boosts soil fertility and structure.

Dig it lightly into beds or

top-dress around plants.

Test soil pH – Autumn is a good

time to check your soil. Most

veggies prefer a pH of 6.0-7.0.

Add lime to raise pH or sulphur

to lower it if needed.

Autumn Crops

Leafy Greens – Lettuce, spinach,

silverbeet, kale – plant

seedlings into trays or pots

otherwise sow seeds directly

into the garden bed.

Root crops – Carrots, beets,

radishes and turnips. Direct sow

into loose, well-drained soil.

Broad beans and peas – Sow

seeds directly, they enrich soil

by fixing nitrogen and provide

tasty winter crops.

Herbs – Parsley, coriander, dill

and chives do well in cooler

months.

Pruning & Maintenance

Hedges and shrubs – Tidy up

hedges and shape any vigorous

growers before growth slows.

Avoid heavy pruning.

Deadhead perennials – Removing

old flower heads encourages

more blooms.

Watch for pests – Aphids, slugs

and snails are some that are

active in autumn. Check plants

regularly for outbreaks and how

to manage. Fungal issues (like

powdery mildew) can be managed

by improving airflow and

removing infected leaves.

Lawn Care

Aerate the lawn – Use a garden

fork or aerator to reduce

compaction and improve water

absorption.

Top-dress – Spread a thin layer

of compost or sandy loam over

your lawn to help level it and

boost health.

Overseed – Fill bare patches

with lawn seed appropriate to

your turf type. Water gently but

consistently until established.

Fertilise – Apply a slow-release

Autumn lawn feed high in

potassium to strengthen roots

for winter.

Flowers & more

Plant bulbs – Tulips, daffodils,

freesias, hyacinths, anemones

– plant in well-drained soil now

for Spring colour.

Divide perennials – Lift and

divide overcrowded clumps of

Kangaroo Paw, Dietes, Iris and

ornamental grasses to rejuvenate

and multiply them.

Collect seeds – Save seeds

from Summer annuals like Dahlias

and sunflowers and vegetables

like tomato and rocket for

next season’s growing.

Sustainability

Bird baths & feeders – Scrub

with mild soap and water every

couple of weeks to help prevent

disease.

Bee/insect hotels – Drill holes

into hardwood blocks or use

bamboo stakes to provide

shelter for native pollinators

(pictured).

Start composting – Add kitchen

scraps and garden waste. Turn

in regularly and keep it moist

for faster breakdown.

Worm farm – A great way to

turn food scraps into nutrientrich

liquid fertiliser.

Plan Ahead

Sketch a planting plan – Think

about crop rotation, companion

planting and space usage for

winter and early Spring.

Order early – Stock up on seeds

and seedlings before the Winter

rush, especially for specialty

heirloom varieties.

Prep beds – Clear weeds, enrich

soil with compost and form

mounds or rows ready for planting

in a few weeks.

Crossword solution from page 63

Mystery location: CAREEL HEAD

66 MAY 2025


Travel Life

90 degrees North – to the Pole!

Luxury cruise leaders PONANT are giving

you the chance to push the boundaries

of navigation and set sail for ‘90

degrees North’ on a 2026 expedition to the

mythical Geographic North Pole.

This stunning cruise is in alliance with

The Explorers Club, an organisation

renowned for supporting science research,

education, and trailblazing expeditions.

Departing from the Norwegian archipelago

Svalbard, between mainland Norway

and the North Pole, you’ll head slowly up

through the desert landscapes of the constantly

changing ice floe.

Luxe by ITravel’s Sharon Godden continues:

“Your odyssey continues down along

Greenland, amidst the ice of the Transpolar

Drift. Between majestic fjords and encounters

with the Inuit culture, the region

of Ittoqqortoormiit is rich in rare treasures

holding inestimable value – and this region,

near the auroral circle, could offer you a

choice position in a period that is ideal

for observing the Arctic marvel that is the

‘Northern Lights’.

“As you progress through this polar

landscape, Nordaustlandet (North East

Land) will display Europe’s largest ice cap.

“Your home for the journey

– Le Commandant Charcot

– is the only cruise ship

able to rise to the North Pole challenge,

otherwise inaccessible to traditional ships.”

She said a slow and humble journey

awaits you in the heart of a silent world,

frozen by the extreme cold.

“You will sail among different states and

forms of ice and will be able to admire,

from the reassuring cocoon of the ship, the

endless show of the light as it reflects on

the opalescent landscapes.

“Following in the wake of explorers like

Roald Amundsen, you will be part of the

few chosen ones to dare the adventure

– 700 kilometres from any land!

“And in their footsteps, you will attempt

to reach the Holy Grail of all polar explorers:

the North Pole!”

Thereafter your odyssey will follow the

ice floes along Greenland, reaching the region

of Ittoqqortoormiit, on the East coast.

“You will discover the village customs

during privileged exchanges mixed with

joyful and authentic moments. Inuit

hospitality is no myth, it is given in the

warmth of a look or an exchanged smile.

“During the last section, Le Commandant

Charcot will take you along the Blosseville

Coast, where the ice sheet meets

the sea.”

Sharon explained The Explorers Club was

founded in New York in 1904 by a group of

the world’s leading explorers of the time.

“It is a multidisciplinary, not-for-profit

organisation dedicated to scientific exploration

of land, sea, air, and space.”

Featured cruise guest is Explorers Club

member and American Photo Ambassador,

Cindy Miller Hopkins.

*Contact Sharon Godden to find out more

about this incredible offer; call 0414 632

476 or email sharon@luxebyitravel.au

Travel Life


MAY 2025 67

Pittwater Life May 2025 Issue

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