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Scotland Island - Western Shores - Mackeral Beach

- May 2008 -

Newsletter for Offshore Residents of Pittwater, Australia Volume 9, Issue 316 May 2008     

 
Editorial:

The cold snap we are currently 'enjoying' is a sign of a cold winter to come. Up go the fuel bills and our use of precious fossil fuel. Or maybe not! Have you considered installing a solar hot water system? It is relatively inexpensive and attracts good government subsidies. Something to think about.

Contents:

  • Cartoon of the Month
  • Pittwater Offshore Archival Pictures
  • Applications Invited for Community Service Grants Program
  • Pittwater's New Parking Policy on Public Exhibition
  • Church Point Ferry Service Timetable
  • Pittwater's New Parking Policy on Public Exhibition
  • Local Warming: climate change and Scotland Island
  • Recent Septic Pump Outs
  • Public Meeting on Pittwater Council's Management Plan
  • Accommodation Required
  • Wine Tasting with Peter Lehmann Wines
  • Clean Out Day
  • Qualified Architect or Interior Designer Required
  • Awards now open for Eco-Champions
  • Warming Winter Recipe
  • Local Guide
  • Archived Newsletters
  • Your Subscription Information
  •  

    Cartoon of the Month Gwyn Perkins

    Download a full version of this months calendar, ready for printing - click the calendar image to the right

    Gwyn Perkins recently illustrated a picture book, "Baby Bird's Blankie" written by Margaret Wild which is being released in early May. Marie and Gwyn intend to have a book signing day at home on a date in May not yet decided. This newsletter will keep you informed'

     

    Pittwater Offshore Archival Pictures

    This is one of a series of old photographs collected, scanned and presented by Leicester Warburton. You will remember Leicester as the author of 'History Corner', now in retirement! We look forward to a wonderful image each month. More information about these photos can be made by contacting Leicester at leicesterw2@bigpond.com

     Applications Invited for Community Service Grants Program
    Pittwater Council’s annual Community Services Grants Program is now open to applications from local not-for-profit organisations, services or groups for funding in the 2008/2009 financial year.

    The one-off funding is available in four categories: Small Grants; Community Capacity Building; Cultural Grants and Youth Grants. The grants awarded range in value from $500 to $5000 and will be prioritised according to projects that address priorities identified in Council’s Social and Cultural Plans.

    Grant coordinator Louise Jeffs said the Council had streamlined the grant application process this year to encourage a diverse range of organisations to apply.

    “The grants program is particularly aimed at innovative projects and resources that support identified needs in the community,” she said.


    Ms Jeffs said that applicants would need to satisfy a number of criteria outlined in the guidelines and were encouraged to discuss their project prior to submitting a written application.

    Mayor James said the grants program was an important component of the Council’s support for local community-based organisations.

    “Although Pittwater is a relatively small Council we make every effort to give funding to those organisations providing services to the local community,” he said.

    Enquiries regarding the lodgement of an application or any aspect of the Community Grants Program can be discussed by phoning Louise Jeffs on 9970 1170.

    The closing date for applications is Friday 16 May 2008. Application forms and guidelines are available at www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/Council/Activities_Awards_&_Grants and from customer service centres at Avalon and Mona Vale.

    To view the Council’s Social and Cultural plans visit www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/community

    Church Point Ferry Service Timetable

    A new edition of the Church Point Ferry Timetable is now available to download. The picture associated with this item is just a tiny thumbnail. Click the image to download and print!

    The new edition improves the visibility of services

    Penny Gleen - Church Point Ferry Service 0433 038 408

    Pittwater's New Parking Policy on Public Exhibition

    Pittwater Council voted to place a new street parking policy on public exhibition at its meeting this
    week.

    The draft policy is intended to give greater discretion to rangers and parking patrol officers on whether to issue fines for parking infringements. It also clarifies the process for members of the public wishing to appeal infringements.

    As a result of the policy, Council officers could use digital photography as evidence to record vehicle registration details, relevant signage and the location of vehicles when issuing infringement notices.

    If adopted, the new policy would also allow Council officers to assess each infringement ‘on its merits’ before issuing any fine.

    Appeals against infringements will still be referred in the first instance to the state government for review, but in the case of those appeals referred back to the Council, a review committee will be set up within the Council to adjudicate.

    General Manager Mark Ferguson said the new policy would be placed on public exhibition from mid April until mid May. Following the public exhibition, it will be referred back to the Council for a final decision.

    “We’ve brought in the new policy because in certain situations such as parking on footpaths that are not clearly defined, a commonsense approach is needed,” Mr Ferguson said.

    Local Warming: climate change and Scotland Island

    Date: Saturday, 17 May, 7.30 pm for an 8 pm start.

    Venue: 10 Thompson St (Lot 332), Scotland Island (for directions please see below)

    We hear a lot about the global effect of climate change, but how might it affect you and your home? What can we expect to happen to Scotland Island, its fauna and flora, as well as its community? With rising sea levels, what will happen to our wharfs and shores? How might government regulations relating to sustainability affect our jobs and the public services we receive, as well as how we travel to and from the island? What will happen to the value of houses and land on the island and in the bays? And how can we start to adapt to climate change to ensure we have a resilient community?

    Karl Mallon, when he isn’t playing a drag queen with the Scotland Island Players, directs a company called Climate Risk Pty Ltd, who work with corporations, state governments and local councils on the risks that climate change pose to their operations and assets, and the ways that they can manage these risks.  He also works on international policies for addressing climate change and is happy to answer any questions people want to ask about all aspects of global warming, both internationally and locally.

    Venue details: 10 Thompson Street (Lot 332), Scotland Island.

    This house, which used to belong to Jim Hinckley, is on the top of the island, looking north-east. It lies between the house that used to belong to Trudi (to the north) and the one where Claire and Luke Atkins live (to the south). As you go up the fire track that starts just behind the fire shed it is the second house on the left after the first hairpin bend (Devil’s Elbow). There is likely to be a white Suzuki Vitara parked outside by the fire track. Note that the only access is from the fire track: there is no access direct from Thompson Street. Please also be careful of trip hazards on the path to the house leading from the fire track: the steps have not been completed.

    Contact details in case of questions or difficulties: Phone: 9999 6891 e-mail: roybaker99@yahoo.com

    There is no need to RSVP, but please bring along whatever you would like to drink (as well as something to drink from) and/or some finger food to share.

    Recent Septic Pump Outs

    To Scotland Island residents who have recently organised to pump their septics out (or any who are in the process of doing this)...

    I just wanted to get an idea of the costs associated with organising the pump outs. Any advice or tips would be greatly appreciated. Thank you

    Iza Foster
    mickiza@dodo.com.au 0414 875 302

    Public Meeting on Pittwater Council's Management Plan

    As part of the public exhibition period of Pittwater Council's draft management plan 2008-2012, a public meeting will be held on Wednesday 14 May from 6.30 to 8pm at Mona Vale Golf Club.

    The meeting will outline the actions detailed in the plan proposed for Pittwater over the next four years. It offers the community a chance to ask questions and to provide feedback to Council staff.

    General Manager Mark Ferguson said the new management plan provided the Council with the means to achieve the strategies and initiatives included in Pittwater’s first-ever Strategic Plan, which has been adopted by Council.

    Pittwater 2020, as the Strategic Plan is known, gives a blueprint for the Council and community to follow for the next 12 years, with a focus on sustainability.

    The draft management plan, which includes the 2008-2009 budget, is currently on public exhibition until 20 May 2008. The 2008-2009 budget outlines total expenditure of $79m, including a capital works program of around $15m.

    Mr Ferguson said the management plan had been developed out of community input over the two year strategic planning process.

    “The public meeting will explain Council’s key actions over the next four years and how they will be funded,” he said.

    Mr Ferguson said that comments from the public on the management plan would be considered prior to Council adopting it by 30 June 2008.

    The draft management plan and 2008-2009 budget can be viewed at Pittwater Council’s customer service centre at 1 Park Street Mona Vale or at www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au For enquiries about the public meeting, please call Simonne Shore on 9970 1103.
     

    Accommodation Required

    "I was told by the real estate to contact you. i am looking for a place for one person on Scotland island... and I believe they do come up but not that often. is it possible for me to print something in the newsletter? I come from Mullumbimby originally and would like to live near the bush again as I heal from some surgery."

    Thank you,

    Sarah Keightley [ sklive@iinet.net.au ]

    Wine Tasting with Peter Lehmann Wines

    A Wine Tasting showcasing wines from Peter Lehmann of the Barossa

    At: Scotland Island Rural Fire Brigade
    For: Brigade members and guests
    Date: Saturday, 3 May 2008
    Time: 3.30pm - 5.30pm
    Cost: $15 per head

    Tickets: PMC Hill Real Estate or Jenny on 0411 405335

    Come along to support the launch of the new vintage of Shed Red!

    Wine Options - Prizes - Fun - Laughs

    SEE YOU THERE!

    CleanOut Day

    Sat 3rd May Mona Vale Surf Club
    Do you know the safest way to dispose of potentially hazardous chemicals such as gas bottles, fire extinguishers, batteries, etc? CleanOut Day is the answer and is on Saturday 3rd May at Mona Vale Surf Club car park between 9am-3:30pm. Click here for cleanout website or call the Environment Line on 131 555 for more details.

    Qualified Architect or Interior Designer Required

    Lightning Naval Architecture is an innovative ship design company. Our clients are leading Australian and international ship owners and shipyards.

    We seek a professionally qualified Architect or Interior Designer.

    • You may be inspired to design large commercial vessels, including passenger ships and ferries;
    • You do have a flair for design of both exterior form and interior spaces;
    • You do have experience in design and material specification for commercial construction projects;
    • Your experience in commercial projects may be in the hospitality area;
    • You are proficient in AutoCAD and standard Office software;

     If this sounds like you then we can offer:

    • The opportunity for challenge as part of a talented professional team;
    • A negotiable salary package for your level of experience;
    • A pleasant working environment in the Pittwater area;
    • Flexible working conditions with permanent part-time work a possibility;

     If this interests you please call Jennifer Knox +61 2 9979 9815 or send your CV to navlight@bigpond.com .We have posted an advert on Seek however we would be particularly interested in any application from a local resident.

    Awards now open for Eco-Champions

    Do you know someone who deserves to be honoured for their dedication and service to environmental conservation or sustainability?

    Pittwater Council is seeking nominations for the 8th Annual Coastal Environment Centre’s Environmental Volunteer of the Year Award.

    Jo Tulau, Coordinator of the Coastal Environment Centre at Narrabeen, said that our goal is to increase the community’s understanding and appreciation of the natural environment and sustainability, and to provide opportunities for active involvement in being part of the solution.

    “The Award is given annually in recognition of outstanding and sustained effort to improve the environment in our local area”, she said.

    “The nominated person will have demonstrated a special concern and commitment to protecting, enhancing, restoring or conserving our environment through their volunteer activities.

    “Activities may include on-ground restoration, working to raise awareness and understanding or advocacy for environmental protection and sustainable living,” Ms Tulau said.

    The successful award recipient will receive a $500 donation towards furthering their conservation goals.

    The awards presentation will take place in early June to coincide with World Environment Day, together with the formal launch of the Council’s strategic plan, Pittwater 2020.
    Nominating someone is easy. Go to www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/environment/CEC for a nomination form or call the Coastal Environment Centre on 9970 1675. Nominations close on 15 May 2008.

    Warming Winter Recipe

    Lamb and bean stew
    Serving size: Serves 4
    Cooking time: More than 1 hour
    Special options: Kid friendly, Nut free
    Favourite flavours: Lamb, Saucy

    INGREDIENTS
    2 tablespoons olive oil
    700g diced lamb (see tip)
    1 onion, finely chopped
    2 garlic cloves, crushed
    1 cup (250ml) passata
    1 bay leaf
    3 sprigs of thyme
    2 x 400g cans cannellini beans,
    drained, rinsed
    1 tablespoon fresh breadcrumbs
    1 tablespoon chopped parsley
    salad, to serve
    METHOD
    1. Heat half of oil in a large saucepan on high. Pan-fry lamb, in batches, until browned. Remove from pan and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add remaining oil. Pan-fry onion and garlic for 3 minutes, until soft.
    2. Return lamb to pan with passata, ½ cup water, bay leaf and thyme. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, until lamb is tender. Remove herbs. Stir through beans and season to taste.
    3. Preheat oven to 220°C. Spoon mixture into a 5-cup ovenproof dish. Top with breadcrumbs and bake for 10 minutes, until golden. Scatter with parsley and serve with salad.

    The local guide

    What's On in Pittwater - Self Editing Event Diary Click Here  
    Scotland Island Traders - On-line shopping from your computer, through your door on Scotland Island. Contact Graeme on 0419460331 or click here for full details  
    Local Real Estate Agents:  
    Century 21 Showcase Pittwater L.J.Hooker Mona Vale
    PMC Hill (subscribe to their newsletter here) Pittwater Real Estate
    Government Organisations:
    Local Pittwater Council, or email them at pittwater_council@pittwater.nsw.gov.au  or by clicking here.
    Federal: Bronwyn Bishop, Member for Mackellar by clicking here or Bronwyn.Bishop.MP@aph.gov.au
    State: Rob Stokes, Member for Pittwater, at pittwater@parliament.nsw.gov.au or by clicking here
    Local Transport: Scotland Island Community Vehicle: Info: click here. Phone (0404103700)    Church Point Ferries (0408296997) Church Point Ferry Timetable click here  Manly Warringah Cabs (0299725600) Palm Beach Cruises (0299974815) Pink Water Taxi (0428238190)
    Local Accommodation
    Bed & Breakfast: Scotland Island Lodge: or http://www.scotlandislandlodge.com.au (0299793301)
    Yacht Clubs Woody Point Yacht Club  or http://www.wpyc.com.au 
      Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club or http://www.rpayc.com.au/
    Short Term Holiday Accommodation: ) Wiringulla Retreat (0299718375) or here
      Treetops on Towlers Bay' (0293322611) info@walkabouttours.com.au
    Budget Accommodation:

    On the doorstep of the Ku-ring-gai Chase N P: Pittwater YHA, Ph 0299995748 www.yha.com.au/hostels/details.cfm?hostelid=31 

    Local Pittwater Studies Website: http://www.pittlink.net/ls
    Scotland Island Rural Fire Brigade: http://www.sirfb.org.au

    Emergency Contact Numbers

    • NSW Police: 000, Police Assistance Line: 13 1444, general information 9281 0000
    • Broken Bay Water Police 9979 4944 or 0412 162 093
    • NSW Fire Service: 000, general information 9265 2999
    • NSW Ambulance Service: 000, general information 9320 7777
    • Rural Fire Service: 000, general information 9450 3000
    • State Emergency Service, Warringah/Pittwater SES: 9486 3399
    • National Parks & Wildlife Service: 000, general information 9457 9322
    • Dept of Community Services: general information 9977 6011
    • Sydney Water: 132 090
    • Energy Australia: 131 388, (ah) 131 909

    Membership of SIRA, Emergency Scotland Island Water Contacts and Application for Water + Guidelines for water, in one document: click here for information (while online)Download the Scotland Island 'Water Agreement' by clicking here (while online)

    Airlines, Buses and Railways

    Sydney Airport: Arrivals and Departures Qantas Information                    Jetstar Information Virgin Blue Information
    Sydney Buses Information.  Sydney Ferries Information City Rail Timetables & Information. Country Link Rail Timetable

    Weather

    Join SIRA You can now join the Scotland Island Residents Association by clicking here. Please print the page and return the completed form to SIRA at this address: The Treasurer, SIRA, PO Box 70, Church Point 2105. Please NO CASH. Contact SIRA at sirapittwater@hotmail.com Join WPCA

    To join the Western Pittwater Community Association, contact Michael Wiener at m2wiener@bigpond.net.au

    Archived Newsletters A complete set of past electronic newsletters since May 2000 can be found and read at https://www.ymlp.com/pubarchive.php?sira or by clicking here or by visiting the Mona Vale Library. The Island website is at www.scotlandisland.org.au

    Finally:

    If you would like to contribute to this newsletter it's easy!. Send an e-mail to the editor by clicking here. Type your short contribution (100 words would be fine) and assuming it is of general interest to the community, does not include matter of a political nature and is not offensive to your neighbours, it will appear next month.

    SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION:

    To get on and off this newsletter, click here or got to: http://www.scotlandisland.org.au/signup . To change your address, click the 'modify' link at the bottom of this newsletter.

    The views expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily the views of the Scotland Island Residents Association (SIRA), or any of the associated Pittwater Offshore Resident's Committees

     

     

    Newsletter Design:Paul Purvis [0403-442-764]