Welcome to our week in review.
Lane Cove Council Releases Update on Woodford Bay Tree Vandalism
In November 2023, Lane Cove Council advised locals that the worst act of environmental vandalism in Lane Cove’s history had taken place: the illegal removal of 50-100 trees and hundreds of other plants and shrubs from Council-owned bushland.
The incident occurred on the environmentally sensitive foreshore of Woodford Bay in Longueville. Read the background here.
Locals were outraged and wanted Lane Cove Council to find and prosecute the people responsible for the vandalism. Lane Cove Council issued the following update this week:
“Council is aware that it has been some time since we provided a public update on the unauthorised removal of hundreds of trees from Council-owned bushland in Longueville. Staff have been working behind the scenes to make sure we continue the courses of action determined in November 2023.
We remain unable to provide a specific update on the legalities of the matter other than that Council, under the direction of its lawyers, are continuing the investigation and gathering of evidence related to this matter at a cost of $45k to date. As advised in January 2024, Council has identified person/s of interest.
Identification of specific means of redress are also ongoing as we continue to liaise with the appropriate stakeholders, including most recently the Department of Environment and Heritage There are some items of Aboriginal Heritage on the site and Council is working to gain permission to install tree banners in the area. No structures can be installed on the site until approval from all stakeholders is provided.
Council remains passionate about the need to follow through on the strongest possible action and note that unfortunately this can take time. The community can be assured that our earlier commitment remains: that every effort will be made and the strongest possible action will be taken having regard to all of the circumstances of the case.”
Retail Theft and Retail Workers Abuse
It’s tough out there if you are a retail business. ITC has spoken to numerous local retailers who tell us about the tough retail conditions and how their staff are regularly abused. You may have noticed signs in several local shops asking customers to be polite to their workers.
Shoppers and retail workers are being urged to speak up and report retail crime in the next phase of a partnership between Crime Stoppers NSW and the Australian Retailers Association (ARA).
Crime Stoppers NSW CEO, Mr Peter Price AM, said retail crime takes many forms, from shoplifting to coordinated robbery by crime gangs, abuse, and assaults against retail workers.
“These crimes don’t only affect Australian retailers but the frontline workers and ultimately the community, that means families. We all have them or are part of one so be respectful,” he said.
“Australian retailers lose billions of dollars each year in stock loss, absenteeism, and workers compensation claims as a result of these crimes. Retail workers face threats and abuse, both verbal and physical when confronting shoplifters, putting their own safety and that of nearby shoppers at risk.
In many cases, retail crime is well planned and coordinated, undertaken by people who work together using smartphones and apps to identify, select, and execute these crimes.
“This has a flow on effect to the broader community where customers are adversely impacted, whether its missing items due to shoplifting or coordinated crime gangs when essential products like baby formula are stolen creating supply shortages for customers.
The message of the campaign is if you see something, say something. Crime Stoppers is a trusted brand, and our community is aware they can report any crime, any time in complete confidence. Our message to shoppers and bystanders is, if something doesn’t look right, contact Crime Stoppers or if it’s an emergency or someone is in danger, contact Police on Triple Zero (000).
“Some seem to think it’s okay to yell at a worker or assault staff to get their own way, and this is completely unacceptable,” said Mr Paul Zahra, CEO of the Australian Retailers Association.
“We all know someone who works or has worked in retail – be it our children, parents, grandparents, or friends. Let’s remember this before lashing out at workers in frustration.
“Worse data shows that 60 percent of in-store thefts are perpetrated by the same 10 percent of individuals – the 10 percent club, who are four times more likely to resort to aggression.
“This issue is not just about major retail chain stores, small family businesses are also on the receiving end of abuse other crimes. These small businesses rely on every sale to keep their lights on and to continue employing staff, especially in regional areas.
“Whether its shoplifting, crime gang theft, threats or abuse, our frontline workers and the community are all affected and all at risk. All retail workers have a right to feel safe at work. It’s not the norm to be yelled at – or spat at – for doing your job. It’s certainly not the norm to be punched or groped or assaulted or intimidated with a weapon while at work,” Mr Zahra said.
Here are some tips for everyone to have a safer experience:
- Don’t put yourself at risk. If you are a bystander and see someone being threatened or abused, call Triple Zero immediately. Find a security guard and advise them of the danger.
- If you suspect someone is shoplifting, find a security guard or staff member and alert them. Take note of what they look like, are wearing, time, date, and location. This can help with reporting to catch the offender.
- If you have information about retail crime, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit nsw.crimestoppers.com.au
Statistics
- Since October 2021, retail theft has been steadily increasing, up 47.5% year on year to June 2023.
- The most frequently reported stolen items being alcohol (37% of incidents) followed by clothing (22% of incidents)
- Licenced premises and general wholesalers have recorded the biggest increase in stealing in retail over the past five years. Department or clothing stores and chemists have reported the largest decreases.
- $440 is the average value of items stolen.
Lane Cove in the News
This week, yahoo.com published an article about locals being divided on a Lane Cove Council ban on dogs in the lifts servicing St Leonard’s Car Park. You can read the article here. This article was published in the same week as Lane Cove Council will be debating the results of the Lane Cove Council “poo and hole audit” on Lane Cove Sportsfields – read more here.
Lane Cove Rotary’s Pride of Work Awards
Lane Cove Rotary held its Pride of Work Awards on Tuesday Night this week.
Each year, Lane Cove Rotary likes to recognise people in our community who do things that make a difference in people’s lives. Their efforts go largely unrewarded or might be underappreciated. We like to recognise them because we believe every job makes a difference, and even what may be viewed as menial tasks by some are integral to a well-functioning community. And when the person performing goes above and beyond or does that job with real care and pride, it makes even more difference.
The award winners were:
Renee Maxwell – Advertising and Marketing Manager In the Cove
Rita Isidori – The Spotted Orchid Owner
Kiran Dadi – Skills Samurai Lane Cove Owner
Courtney Kynoch – Helloworld Travel Lane Cove
Daniel Elton – Lane Cove Council – Responsible for the beautiful Central Park in Longueville
Lane Cove Men’s Shed
Last weekend, the Lane Cove Men’s Shed stall in the Lane Cove Plaza was a success. We will let you know when they are back in the plaza so you can check out their handmade items.
Birrahlee Open Day and Search for a Board Member
On the weekend, the much-loved Birrahlee held its annual open day. It was a great success, with snags, face painting, and more. See our cover photo.
The Birrahlee Board has always consisted of volunteer parents; however, more than 50% of the Board changes each year as parents transition out of preschool to school. In 2023, the Birrahlee Pre-School constitution was changed to allow community members with particular expertise to join the Board to assist with diversity of perspective.
Birrahlee is looking for an accountant to join the Board and feels it would be an excellent role for someone from the local community. If you are an accountant currently practising or retired but want to give your time to Birrahlee, they would love to hear from you. Please email the board here. As a not-for-profit community-based preschool, outside expertise would be invaluable.
Business Alerts
SME Digital
ITC is involved in setting up the Lane Cove Toy Library, and it is lovely meeting the volunteers and getting to know more Lae Cove residents. One of the volunteers is Stephen Kee, who told ITC about his business. We regularly get asked about web designers and SEO, so we thought we would talk to you about Stephen’s business – SME Digitial.
Stephen told us the following about SME Digital.
“SME Digital is a leading Syndey-based Web and SEO Agency. They are all about building high-converting online masterpieces and ensuring they rank organically so our clients find customers in their sleep.
Our tagline is Design | Build | Succeed:
We design the website
We build/develop the website
We help clients through our SEO services (organic search)
We have three locations: Lane Cove, Brookvale, and Sydney CBD. We serve clients all over, and we’re industry agnostic. Our clients are based in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. Some of our larger clients have a global presence.
Website: SME Digital
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sme-digital-au
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SMEDigitalAU
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sme.digitalau/
They have been nominated for the Outstanding Professional Services category for this year’s Local Business Awards.”
Jonny Gio Pizza
Johnny Gio’s Pizza is coming to Lane Cove. You can see what they offer on their Instagram account. They will be located next to @@kin_cafe in the Harris Farm building. Below is an extract from their DA lodged with Lane Cove Council a few days ago.
Lane Cove Sports
AFL Lane Cove Cats
The Lane Cove Cats auskickers had a great time playing at the SCG last Friday when the Swans played Carlton.
Protect Yourself This Flu Season
Protect yourself and others from serious illness as flu season starts in NSW and we have heard from several locals how they have been laid low this year with Flu and COVID.
NSW Health is strongly urging the community to stay up to date with their vaccinations to protect themselves and others, as the flu season begins, and notifications of respiratory viruses rise across the state.
The latest NSW Health Respiratory Surveillance Report shows influenza and COVID transmission in the community is increasing, while respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) remains at high levels.
NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant said the latest data shows more than 2,000 people were diagnosed with influenza across NSW in the week ending 11 May 2024.
“We are now officially entering the influenza season, with cases expected to surge rapidly in the next six to eight weeks, so now is the time to get a flu vaccine to protect yourself and your loved ones,” Dr Chant said.
“This is a timely reminder for parents, as we are already seeing an increase in the number of young children becoming sick with the virus. The flu vaccine is readily available and accessible for those at higher risk of severe illness, including children aged six months to under five years.
There are a few simple steps you can take to help protect yourself and your loved ones from respiratory viruses like COVID-19, influenza and RSV, including:
- Stay up to date with your recommended flu and COVID-19 vaccinations
- Stay home if you are sick, and wear a mask if you need to leave home
- Get together outdoors or in large, well-ventilated spaces with open doors and windows
- Consider doing a rapid antigen test (RAT) before visiting people at higher risk of severe illness.
More information on influenza and the COVID-19 booster vaccines can be found here:
https://www.nsw.gov.au/health/influenza
https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/vaccination
Lane Cove and Surrounds Events
Children’s Voices for Reconciliation – Free Event
Thursday, 30 May 2024, 10:30 am – 12:00 pm, The Canopy Lane Cove
Join local North Shore Schools at The Canopy to celebrate Reconciliation Week. School groups will perform their interpretation of this year’s theme. The event invites everyone to use their voice to share their truths with others. It includes songs, dance, and art from local North Shore Schools.
The Children’s Voices for Reconciliation is an annual event that started in 1997. Lane Cove Residents for Reconciliation and the Lane Cove Council co-founded it.
Domestic Violence Awareness Workshop
Empower yourself to create change by joining Lifeline’s next FREE 2-hour DV-aware Workshop on Domestic and Family Violence.
This interactive workshop, led by experienced facilitators, provides valuable insights into recognising and responding to domestic and family violence.
You’ll learn how to identify signs of abuse, understand the cycle of violence, and explore ways to support those in need. Plus, you’ll have the chance to network with others and receive essential tools and references for support and referral.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain knowledge and confidence in making a difference.
Location: Gordon
Date: Friday, 14 June 2024
Time: 10 am–12 pm
Cost: FREE
Age: 18+
Enrol today here.
Hunters Hill Vintage, Antique and Homewares Fair
Hunters Hill Vintage Antique & Homewares Fair is a market event for the community of Hunters Hill, surrounding suburbs, and Sydney lovers of antiques, vintage, and homewares. It is happening this week. Pop along to Hunters Hill Town Hall on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, 24 – 26 May, to check out some beautiful items. Our article has more information.
Have Your Say on Lane Cove’s Age-Friendly Strategy
Lane Cove Council was the first NSW Council to become a member of the World Health Organisation Age-Friendly Cities.
Lane Cove Council seeks your contribution in updating its Age-Friendly Lane Cove strategy.
If you are 55 years old or older, or if you are connected to an older person living in the Lane Cove Council area, Lane Cove Council would like to learn about your current experience, concerns, and aspirations for an Age-Friendly Lane Cove.
This survey has 19 questions and will take no more than 20 minutes to complete.
All information is confidential and will be de-identified and utilised to inform the Age-Friendly Lane Cove Strategy 2024 – 2029.
Fill out the survey here.
Lane Cove Crime, Accident and Incident Report
The wet weather continues to cause accidents in Lane Cove. On Tuesday night, an accident occurred on River Road just past the Greenwich Public School.
Week in Review Sponsor – PAWS GALORE
How would you like to look after someone’s dog or cat while they are away? You get to enjoy a dog or cat’s company without the long-term responsibility and cost of owning one.
Why not become a Paws Galore Pet Boarder?
Paws Galore – A Boutique Pet Boarding Service
Paws Galore is a Lane Cove-based business that offers home pet boarding. The business was established over eight years ago and received continuous 5-star reviews. Paws Galore offers home pet boarding services to clients in greater Sydney, with numerous clients in the Upper and Lower North Shore, Eastern Suburbs, and Inner-West.
What is Home Pet Boarding?
Paws Galore fur babies all receive lots of love and attention and are treated as part of the family at the Pet Boarder’s home.
It’s like a holiday for your dog or cat in another person’s home where they will be looked after by pet lovers (i.e. Pet Boarders). The home boarding service appeals to pet owners who want their dog or cat to have a “home away from home”.
How Does it Work?
Paws Galore will match the right fit for your circumstances and availability. Their complimentary transport service (drop-offs and pick-ups) makes it simple for the pet owner and the pet boarder. Pet Boarders provide daily photos, so the owners are reassured their dog or cat is being well cared for – who does not love taking photos of cute dogs and cats?
Paws Galore Wants You to Become a Pet Boarder
Their much-adored “home” pet boarding service has been growing, and they are approaching their busiest period over the Christmas holidays. They are seeking Pet Boarders who can look after a dog or cat in their own home on a casual basis.
Do any of the following apply to you or your family?
- You love dogs or cats.
- You can look after a dog or cat in your home.
- You would love to enjoy the company of a dog or cat without the “long-term” responsibility and cost of owning one.
- You own a dog and want to have a playmate for a while.
- You would love some family bonding time where you can play with a dog or cat.
If any of the above apply, you should consider being a Pet Boarder.
How Do I Become a Pet Boarder?
To find out how to become a pet boarder, check out the Paws Galore website (click here to go to the join-us page) or call or text Hollie at 0434 834 088 or email [email protected] with your name and contact number and Paws Galore will get back to you.
Why not be a Pet Boarder this holiday season?
Paws Galore Pet Boarder Contact Details
Phone: Call or text Hollie on 0434 834 088
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.pawsgalore.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PawsGalore/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paws.galore/
By the way, if you love looking at cute dogs and cats – you must follow Paws Galore’s Instagram – a sneak peek below
