"Haven't seen any dolphins but a seal was spotted about 4 weeks ago.  The sighting was reported to the NSW National Parks and Wildlife who advised the seal was probably sick and they were keeping an eye on it.  Haven't heard anything since."

Pittwater Develops Cultural Plan

Pittwater Council is asking its residents to assist in the development of a Cultural Plan for Pittwater.

The word “Culture” encompasses traditional arts, heritage and tourism, as well as customs, rituals and traditions of both individuals and the wider community. Pittwater’s way of life, sense of place and local identity all contribute to its culture.

As part of developing this Plan, Cultural Conversations will be held with residents in October to obtain their views on a number of local cultural issues. Residents interested in discussing Pittwater’s culture while enjoying short entertainment and light refreshments from 6-8.30pm on Thursday 6 October are invited to contact Simonne Shore on 9970 1169, sshore@pittwater.nsw.gov.au

To contribute to the development of the Cultural Plan, Pittwater Council is inviting professional and amateur artists to submit contributions which may be incorporated as artwork in the final Plan document, or in a public cultural display. These artworks should reflect either the local pride or spirit of Pittwater, or explain the role of the past, present or future in shaping Pittwater’s identity. They may be drawings, poetry, short stories, photographs, music or film. All entries will be included in a draw to win one of three $50 gift vouchers. Entries close 14 October 2005 and should be sent to Simonne Shore at Pittwater Council, PO Box 882, Mona Vale 1660. If entries cannot be posted, contact Simonne on 9970 1169, sshore@pittwater.nsw.gov.au

Anyone wishing to gain more information on the Cultural Plan is invited to visit www.pittwaterlga.com.au, Community Services.

Birding Essentials

Birding Essentials at the Coastal Environment Centre Lake Park Road, North Narrabeen
This one day workshop will encourage beginners and enhance the knowledge of seasoned bird watchers.
The day provides an intensive and enjoyable focus on improving birdwatching skills, bird physiology and special adaptations, habitat issues and living with birds in an urban environment.
We will look at practical means of encouraging and supporting bird life on our own suburban doorsteps.
Topics include:
• Getting Started as a Birdwatcher
• Bird Physiology & Adaptations
• Essentials for Bird Habitat
• Discouraging Pest Species
• You will also have the opportunity of visiting our Northern Beaches birding hotspots with expert guides
For more information and a brochure please call the Coastal Environment Centre on 9970 6905.

New Mayor for Pittwater

SIRA (Scotland Island Residents Association) welcomes new mayor of Pittwater Council, Cr. Alex McTaggart. Alex has lived in Pittwater all his life and is a keen surfer, swimmer and active member of Avalon Lions Club. With a background in accountancy and lecturing in horticulture, he is a Director of Garrigal Housing Association, providing affordable housing for the local community. Our community looks forward to working with Cr. McTaggart to further enhance our corner of this beautiful part of Pittwater.

SODA Gallery Art Prize

Located at the northern tip of Sydney's northern beaches in Avalon (a stone's throw from the playground of the rich and famous, Palm Beach) SODA Gallery offers visitors to the area, and locals, a welcoming and rich cultural experience. A key aim of SODA Gallery from its inception has been to educate broader audiences and stimulate increased awareness and appreciation of contemporary Australian art. This initiative serves as a way to continue our commitment to the country's emerging artists and elevate the visual arts experience of northern beaches residents and visitors.

The major Prize of $5,000 is proudly sponsored by Sandhurst Ridge - Boutique Hand-crafted Wines. According to the critics, Sandhurst Ridge consistently demonstrates a drive for excellence in the fine art of wine-making and, like SODA Gallery the company shares a passion for contemporary art.

Paintings may be no larger than 2500 sq.cm and can be executed in any medium. Entries close on Friday 14 October at 5pm and entry forms can be downloaded here.

The official opening and announcement of the winner of the inaugural SODA Gallery Small Painting Prize will take place at SODA Gallery on Friday 4 November 2005.

Call for Artwork

To contribute to developing the Cultural Plan, Pittwater Council is inviting professional and amateur artists to submit contributions, which may be incorporated as artwork in the final Plan document, or in a public cultural display.

These artworks should reflect either the local pride or spirit of Pittwater, or explain the role of the past, present or future in shaping Pittwater's identity.

They may be drawings, poetry, short stories, photographs, music, etc All entries will be included in a draw to win one of three $50 gift vouchers. Entries close 14 October 2005 and should be sent to Simonne Shore at Pittwater Council, PO Box 882, Mona Vale 1660. If entries cannot be
posted, contact Simonne on 9970 1169, sshore@pittwater.nsw.gov.au

Special Note!

Did you know that the Scotland Island Players have been invited by Pittwater Council to spark off the cultural conversation? The Players have chosen to perform a staged reading of a scene from "Hotel Sorrento" by Australian playwright Hannie Rayson.
Starring Toby Jay, Claire Atkins, Damian Monk, Kerry Borthwick, Megan Longginou, Nettie Lodge, Sean Lillier and directed by Jackie Turnure.
Be sure to book your place by contacting Simonne Shore at Pittwater Council on 9970 116

NSW Maritime moves to make waterways safer

NSW Maritime today announced boat driving licence testing will be more rigorous from the start of the new boating season in October this year.
An expanded boating education seminar program will also take effect as of 1 July 2006 managed by the State boating regulator NSW Maritime.
As of October 1, people sitting for their NSW boat driving licence will need to undergo a more thorough testing of their boating knowledge with tougher questions and more of them.
And from July next year people will need to take a mandatory boat safety seminar before they can sit for their licence.