Issue 52 - Summer 2008/09
Transcription
Issue 52 - Summer 2008/09
news NOOSA WATERS Residents Association Issue 52 Summer Xmas Edition this edition... MESSAGE FROM NWRA PRESIDENT Dear Fellow Residents, On behalf of the newly elected Management Committee and myself, I would like to thank you for your vote of confidence in re-electing us. 2 Presidents Report 3 New Social Group It was very pleasing to have, at the AGM, a number of members volunteer to assist in the planning of activities. The Social side of the Association is very much up to YOU. We can facilitate contact and organisation of activities via the web site and phone. A number of new activities are already being planned. A most exciting development has been a closer working relationship with Noosa Croquet Club resulting in the availability of the Club room for hire at reasonable cost, for NWRA meetings and upcoming Social events. The inaugural Management Committee meeting was held in the Club in November. We look forward to having a mutually successful arrangement and being able to assist each other with various projects over time. Please support the new Sports and Social group and the Noosa Waters Croquet Club in any way that you can. 4 On Water Safety 5 Fire Safety The year ahead is sure to be challenging as we tackle issues such as short term holiday rentals (please see the report by Dick Patterson) and development/ building certification problems. The main issues are about fence heights and building within 4.5metres of the revetment wall. These problems can involve interpretation and understanding of Council requirements by private Certifiers. A number of “hooning” problems have been reported, both on our roads and the canal. To report road hooning problems please contact Noosa Police – 5447 5888. For excessive speed and other boating misconduct in the canal, contact the Boating and Fisheries Patrol at Noosaville on 5449 7555 and advise them of boat details. Your support of the Association is appreciated. Thanks to all concerned for the Kayak Challenge event which will have taken place by the time of publication. Special thanks to sponsors, Kayak Noosa. I wish everyone a very happy and safe Christmas and good fellowship with family and friends. Gary Trevithick, President 6 Xmas Flotilla more inside... Noosa Waters Christmas Lights Competition Light up Noosa Waters Homes for Christmas! Prizes for best entries Judging to take place between December 15th-19th. MERRY XMAS Festive Canine Greetings from Jackson,Callum,Beau,Max,Lily and Lily (Inspired by Noosa Hot Dogs) New Noosa Waters Social Group The recent survey identified the need and opportunity to have more social activity within the Noosa Waters community. With the wonders of technology – Noosa Waters website, the option of the Croquet Club as a meeting venue and the creative spirit of so many NW residents, it will be possible to generate a series of “virtual” groups that just come together for the purposes of sharing time together enjoying one-off events or activities, courses or series of get-togethers. A group of interested residents met in September, 2008 to discuss options and the way forward. It was decided to generate ‘Expressions of Interest’ for various activities and then those who put their contact details forward, can get in touch with each other and make arrangements for a meeting, event or activity. See ABC list page 8. newsletter Noosa Waters Residents Association Issue 52 - Summer Xmas Edition Some of the points covered by the President were: • Recognition of the fantastic job our volunteers are doing. The gardens and verges have been redone with mulch and cleaned up. The parks are looking great contributing to welcoming effect of the estate’s appearance on residents, visitors and potential buyers. • Council installed new entry sign on the corner of Saltwater Ave and Gibson Road (featured in last edition). AGM Report The 2008 AGM was a lively and enjoyable affair attended by over 70 members, with many issues raised and discussed. A number of “Murphy’s Law” obstacles on the day actually resulted in a silver lining for us. The venue we had booked turned out to be ”double” booked but we were indebted to the School and their team for doing everything they could to overcome the problems. Their solution gave us: • Makeover of the entry signs at Riverbreeze Ave -signs funded by NWRA and special thanks to John Langdon for the construction work; other signs will be progressively refreshed, all adding to the amenity of the area we live in. • Partnering Charter with Noosa Council which has continued with the new SCRC. This establishes high levels of communication and co-operation between Council and residents; - Landscaping - it establishes responsibility and service levels for parks and park furniture, nature strips, entry statements, roundabouts and fountain; - Waterways - it includes maintenance and capital replacement of the lock, rubbish control and water quality. • Flooding in Shorehaven Drive and mud which enters into the canal during heavy rain. The issues and possible solutions have been and will continue to be discussed with Council. • Problems arising from the approval of various develop ments by private Certifiers. Discussions are in progress with Councillor Russell Green and Council about how these problems can be minimised in both the short and longer term. As these discussions evolve meetings will be held with members and their views and decisions will be sought to develop solutions. • • • • the most comfortable seats we have ever had; the best sound we could wish for; equipment to show the photos and video clip, no stacking chairs afterwards when everyone is tired and wants to go home; and • we were not charged for the venue. We thank Councillor Russell Green and his PA Cathy Rees for being there on the night. Russell brought us up to date on current issues affecting Noosa residents eg, • challenges of the amalgamation process; • impact of the Iconic board on planning procedures; • the evolving Noosa Biosphere; and • the possibility of having a Noosa Waters Plan covering water ways and catchment issues. (Ian Wallbank gave a report on behalf of the sub-committee, which has been set up, to investigate this option further.) The Noosa Integrated Catchment Area (NICA) had an interesting display about Noosa’s waterways and the various projects underway to monitor and protect the integrity of water condition using bio-measures such as mangrove and seagrass health. Residents had the chance to gain a better understanding of the negative impact on the Noosa River area, of putting grass cuttings, chemicals, dust and detergents into stormwater drains. The AGM Ended on a high note with a promotional, 1995 video of Noosa Waters (provided by Ian Wallbank from his archives of Noosa Waters) from its very early days. As requested, Seymours arranged to have Project Manager, Ben Brown and PR representative Melody File from Brisbane and the local manager of JFP Consulting Engineers, Andrew Fraser, available to respond to concerns or interests of residents. They spoke about the new development and in particular about our drainage concerns in heavy rain conditions. Recent sediment had believed to have been caused by run-off from the new estate, but subsequent Council investigations seem to have established a different source. To all of the Management Committee and Residents of Noosa Waters, wishing you and your families a safe and enjoyable Christmas and New Year. Residents are warned to be ever vigilant and if any sediment, excess water or other matters of concern are observed – from any source - to immediately contact Council and/or a member of the WaterWatch or the MC team. The protection of the revetment wall and quality of our water in the canal is vital for the well-being of the whole estate and to the Noosa River environment. (Please refer to website for article on Revetment Wall.) Spend some time walking along the river, paddling in the ocean, drinking red wine and the company of good friends. Bring on 2009! Best Wishes Cr Russell Green 2 Noosa Waters Residents Association newsletter Issue 52 - Summer Xmas Edition New Noosa Waters Social Group – with a difference! Please access the Noosa Waters Sports and Social Groupwebpage to view the ABC of suggested activities - or use the “Expressions of Interest” information on page 8. Ideally, please complete the online survey to register your interest in any of the activities, or post hard copy form to NWRA PO Box 197 Noosaville. You can add to the list of options by contacting Webmaster and can give details of existing local clubs and groups. Monthly Socials at the Croquet Club It is also proposed to hold monthly social events, primarily at the Croquet Club with guest speakers or organised activities. It is hoped that the first guest speaker will be newly appointed Coastguard Commander, Robin Hood, who will delight audiences with his entertaining style, but will also educate and inform about boating safety on Noosa’s waterways, especially crossing the bar at the Spit and changing conditions. Noosa Waters Cinema and Film Appreciation Group The inaugural cinematic and social event will commence in January organised by Liz and Ron Meilke. There will be a suggested group viewing at the local cinema and optional social afterwards. There will then be a film appreciation get-together, probably at the Croquet Club on another day, for a more focussed film review. Noosa Waters Walking Group Join the new Noosa Waters walking group! Get ready for Christmas and to walk off the Festive Fare! Each week, the group will depart from Saltwater Park, walk along Shorehaven under bridge by lock, along Noosaville riverfront, then back via Saltwater. Route will alter from time to time to suit the group who may choose stop for coffee/ drink on return trip! Noosa Waters Book Club This will commence in the New Year and will provide a great opportunity to compare views and reviews about books you have read over Christmas with fellow readers. Please register your interest on the website. Australia Day Street Parties The great Aussie tradition of having a street party on Australia Day is a wonderful way to get to know friends and neighbours. Why not organise your own street party? Nearer the time, hints to make your event as easy and safe as possible, will be posted on Social Events webpage. Events may be free, low cost or a few dollars more; active or passive; involve dining, picnicking, a glass of wine or two – simply just sharing a sunset. Could be about sharing vehicles to travel locally or to Eumundi, Brisbane or the Gold Coast for events, or home based entertaining. Keep checking the Social webpage and key in any ideas. Just take up the interests and activities that appeal to you, but please help to make them happen! Call for Volunteers to Assist with Co-ordinating the Sports and Social Group Whereas most of the events and activities will happen without always going through a main group, it will still be necessary to undertake some general co-ordination and administration roles, which will be kept to a minimum. If you would be willing to form a steering committee, please contact Cathie Martin on 0416 032 578 or email [email protected] The next meeting will be held in January at the Croquet Club - details later on webpage. Update from Glen Elmes, MP for Noosa Caring NW residents who have followed the travails forced upon the people of the Mary River, will have shared their relief as Premier Bligh announced the Traveston travesty would not be built – at least for a few years. Glen Elmes, MP for Noosa, pulled no punches in his media statement sent to NWRA Newsletter, as he expressed his concern for the “wonderful hinterland community”, which he says “have been treated like the stuff (they) want to put in our drinking supply!” See website for full statement. This was released on the day of the Noosa preview launch of the new “Love, Mary” book. Available for sale through www.savethemaryriver.com. Kayak Challenge 2008 Thanks to Kayak Noosa, Expresso Noosa, Coastguard and all who particpated or contributed in any way to the event. Details in next edition! FYI The route is 4km long and can take 33 minutes for experienced kayakers! Noosa Waters Evening Out Group A chance for people singly or in couples, to go with a group of folk to enjoy an evening out - perhaps dining out, dancing, boating, table tennis, going to the theatre or going to an event eg New Year Fireworks on the River. Sponsors of Noosa Waters Residents Association Kayaking Challange 0448 567 321 www.kayaknoosa.com 3 newsletter Noosa Waters Residents Association SUMMER SAFETY HINTS - FOR BOATS, HOMES AND PEOPLE Compiled by Gloria Bruzzoni, QF5 Information Officer Coast Guard Noosa Says Check Your Moorings When the weather warms up heralding glorious summer days are ahead, the dark side is that destructive weather is also on the agenda. The storm season began early and with a vengeance this year, demonstrating the urgency for storm preparedness - with everyone playing a role in ensuring their own safety and protection of life and property. When trouble strikes the volume of calls for help can be overwhelming, resulting in delays in assistance. Issue 52 - Summer Xmas Edition Suggested Precautions: • Adopt extra heavy duty lines with the ability to lengthen as required. • Remove to shore everything loose on a vessel particularly newspapers, magazines and cartons because when they become soggy, they block drainage, bilges and pumps if the vessel takes on water. • Strong winds will drive water through the smallest opening, causing internal flooding, so ensure all are securely sealed. • Ensure there are no weak spots caused by rust in the mooring or anchor equipment. • Check out your neigbbours’ mooring arrangements both for their well-being and yours - if not adequate, you vessel can be at risk from theirs! • With the popularity of pontoon boats in our system it is important to check the amount of water gathering on the canopy, to prevent struts collapsing or the canopy ripping. A significant feature of severe storms is storm surge and torrential rains so knowing the estimated water height for your area can be important. The more shallow offshore water, the more pronounced the wind-driven surge and if coinciding with a high tide the more dramatic the effect on tidal rivers, low-lying land and canals systems. Boats not moored securely or moored too securely, which does not allow for rising waters in the canal system, can be an expensive risk. It is estimated 50% of moored vessels damaged in cyclonic winds could have been saved by using better mooring lines and better knowledge in their arrangement. According to Admiral Robin Hood, “The best advice for boaties is to become a QF5 Associate Member which carries significant benefits at an annual cost of only $50. Free on water assistance (conditions apply), and discounts on marine courses, including boat safety, navigation, radio and first aid, plus free bar crossing courses. By becoming either a Marine rescue boat volunteer or a radio operator and undergoing professional nationally recognized training, boaties can enrich their skills.” Prevention is the key but when needed, Coast Guard can help. Join up now. Call Alan Hall on 5455 5020 or 0414 957 427 4 Noosa Waters Residents Association newsletter Issue 52 - Summer Xmas Edition Short Term Holiday Rentals Tips for Surviving Fire BE PREPARED - NOT SCARED! At the recent association AGM residents present passed unanimously the following resolution: ‘Residents consider that Short Term Holiday Rental (STHR) is a tourist activity that is not compatible with the quiet residential nature of Noosa Waters. This meeting therefore requests the Association to make every effort to have such activity within the Noosa Waters estate stopped.’ • • • • • • Install and maintain smoke alarms; Ensure your security allows you to escape quickly Have a home evacuation plan - you would have only minutes to escape Practise regularly with the children - get down low and go, go, go! Air near the door in a fire is cleaner, clearer and cooler. In case of fire, call 000. For any more tips and further potentially life saving information, take the time to visit: www.fire.qld.gov.au. Book a free “Homesafe Program” visit and help Noosa Waters to become a Bushfire Prepared Community. ARE YOU READY FOR SUMMER STORMS? - ASKS SES How To Prepare: • Have the SES help number handy - 132 500 • Trim threatening trees, • Secure (or bring inside) play equipment, pots and outdoor furniture • Ensure roofs and gutters are free of leaves and debris, • Check that street drains which can rapidly block with debris, are clear • Prepare an emergency kit • Check insurance is adequate and up-to-date. Insurance companies have 24-hour phone services and can organise roof repairers and electricians. Please respect that SES volunteers are for emergency situations only, not handyman tasks! But if there is the threat of flooding, a significant roof leak, tree damage to the house, part of the road washed away or an inability to cope with the storm event, do not hesitate to call the SES on 132 500 and 000 for a lifethreatening emergency. Further information: www.emergency.qld.gov.au 5 People taking STHR accommodation are here to holiday. During the discussion the adverse lifestyle impact of partying, noise and late nights were highlighted as well as the negative impact on the saleability and value of housing in the immediate area. Concern was expressed that STHR’s in Noosa Waters were increasing and unless residents take strong immediate action we could quickly become another Noosa Sound holiday village. While you may not have experienced these problems remember that that house next door to you could be turned into a noisy, uncontrolled holiday rental at any time. This is an issue that affects us all. We have talked to the real estate agents involved in STHR’s in Noosa Waters about much tighter controls. While they make soothing noises, the agents tend to shelter behind ‘we are only following the owners’ instructions’ rather than showing any real leadership and, if necessary, refusing to represent a particular property. Richardson & Wrench are the main agent promoting STHR’s in Noosa Waters. Clearly there is a serious conflict between the negative impact on residents of this type of activity and an agents desire to represent residents in regard to buying and/or selling property. All residents should give this matter careful consideration when choosing an appropriate agent to handle their property purchase or sale. Support those that support us. We have written to the Sunshine Council concerning stopping STHR’s in Noosa Waters or at least introducing strong rules to control such activities. Their initial response was unhelpful. However your committee will continue discussions with both the real estate agents involved and the Council to seek a satisfactory response to residents’ concerns. We will also research other approaches which may help address the STHR problem. In the meantime residents experiencing problems should not hesitate to contact directly the Property Manager of the agent representing that particular STHR and follow this up with a written complaint. It would be helpful if your committee was made aware of the problems by advising chairman, Dick Patterson, email [email protected] newsletter Noosa Waters Residents Association Issue 52 - Summer Xmas Edition NOOSA NORTHRISE UPDATE Hello Residents of Noosa Waters. We’d like to provide the following update on Noosa NorthRise, the new residential estate being created by Seymour Group on the land adjoining Noosa Waters: • Construction of the silt fences has been completed, which is for sediment control of stormwater from the site and to also assist in the minimization of any flood ing issues into Noosa Waters Noosa Waters Christmas Flotilla! Friday, December 19th 6.15pm form-up for 6.30pm Start • Construction has commenced on Stages One and Two of the estate, including construction of the entrance road and bulk earthworks, with completion expected early 2009 Decorate your boats and homes to your heart’s content – Let’s really ‘light up’ the Canal! Prizes awarded! Coastguard Noosa will be the lead vessel again this year. • De-weeding of the 4.96ha of retained parkland is underway, including the removal of environmental weeds and several disintegrating trees Noosa Community Radio will be broadcasting Christmas Carols for the Flotilla, so bring along your radio and tune it to 101.3 FM, turn it up and sing along. • Seymour Group is placing great importance on the protection of local wildlife and has organised for 15 nesting boxes to be installed on site by local company Hollow Log Homes. This is above and beyond Council requirements for the site Enjoy participating in this Noosa Waters iconic occasion whether you are on the water or on land! View from the many vantage points; create and capture the Christmas spirit of this special event for all. • In response to feedback from Noosa Waters residents, Seymour Group is also investigating a suitable location to plant Richmond Birdwing Butterfly vines within Noosa NorthRise. Dress up, bring along flashing lights, hats, festive fare and picnic! Sing loudly and have FUN! Flotilla departs from eastern side of Saltwater Shorehaven canal bridge; finishes at the Mermaid Quays Park If you require any further details or have any queries or ideas, please contact the Noosa Waters Residents Association’s nominated Liaison Co-ordinator or alternatively, don’t hesitate to contact us on the details below. Patrick McGuire & Melody File Marketplace Communications p. 07 3358 4777 e. Melody.fi[email protected] Shipwright Avenue Before... Please Remember Maritime Rules Apply • • • • • • • Now.... 6 4 knots No Wash Boats must be in sound working order, start checking now!! All boats, all types must have navigation lights in full working order Single file; keep to your left or right according to map directions No overtaking unless really necessary No horseplay Make sure your insurance is up to date – just in case… newsletter Noosa Waters Residents Association Fish in Noosa Waters – By Request Issue 52 - Summer Xmas Edition NOOSA U3A MUSIC APPRECIATION GROUP Over the years residents have spotted and even caught, a number of different species of fish in Noosa Waters, which also gives a positive indicator of sound water health. For those that enjoy fishing, to be able to do so at the bottom of one’s own garden is one of the pleasures of living in Noosa Waters! Festive Greetings from the group! A warm welcome greets those who attend Noosa U3A Music Appreciation Group each Thursday morning from 9.30 am - 11.30am. A list of species caught by residents, can be emailed to you on request to: [email protected] To view a list of species that are known to be present in the Noosa River, please visit website. Update on Homeless Pets Featured in Last Edition Did You Know? Noosa Waters Landscaping Maintenance - Facts and Figures Misty and Jake found homes and are doing well. Elsa is still in need of a home but does have health issues. 4 Paws latest canine star seeking a home is Frankie, a lovable 18 month old pug who is full of life and love for people and other animals. Stella (pictured below), is a 10 month old labrador/cattle dog cross with friendly, gentle nature from RSPCA. Can you help them find new homes? with Sharon Woodford and John Langdon 5 Parks with Playgrounds and Sunshades 6 Open Parks 6 Roundabouts 5 Entry Statements with surrounding gardens 1 Fountain Paved Areas of Streets 225 Metres of Mulch Tree Removal and Replacement Program Noxious Weed Control With Christmas coming up, animal shelters are about to be hit with another wave of unwanted pets that will be bought for Christmas and rejected almost immediately afterwards. Help save lives this Christmas. Your kind assistance would be much appreciated. RSPCA urgently needs: • old towels, old blankets, • detergents and cleaning products • cat and dog toys • pet food, 4Paws especially needs food for small dogs. FREE Keep-fit Sessions with John! John invites all to his FREE Keep-Fit sessions in Noosa Waters Learn the Pandanas Bend, Wheelbarrow Weightlifting and Mulch Push-ups! All welcome - to the next Working Bee in 2009! Please bring practical donations to 30 Neptune Circuit, on Monday Mornings, before Christmas. Call Robyn on 5447 1519, to make other arrangements. Please protect our precious wildlife - keep cats and dogs under control at all times, but especially at night Warning for Dog Owners: RSPCA reports many recent incidences of people leaving their dogs locked up in the car where they can rapidly overheat die. Please do not go Christmas shopping with dog in car!!! Photos taken at first meeting of Management Committee at the Croquet Club. If you see any domestic or wildlife in strife, please take the time to help. Call: Croquet Club Update Local Pet Rescue or Donations RSPCA 5449 1371 4PAWS 0411 144 689 Professional Snakecatcher Noosa Waters Croquet Club members take their Croquet seriously, but also know how to have fun and work hard. The Club was a great place to spend 2008 Melbourne Cup, as can be seen from the photos. Watch for the next open day – join this Noosa Waters Club. Contact Andy Hallinon on 5449 7493 or see the latest newsletter for more information. 7 Wildlife Rescue Council 5449 5200 Seabird rescue: 5485 3020 - Mark Norman 0408 726 524 newsletter Noosa Waters Residents Association Issue 52 - Summer Xmas Edition Noosa Waters Sports & Social Group ABC of Suggestions A Archery Astronomy B Boating Bridge C Craft Croquet D Dining out Bookclub Chess Darts G Golf Football Cookery Cricket Dogs Emergency services Films Gardening Basketball Dancing E Environment studies F Fishing Art French Conversation Graphic design German H Humour Holidays – Armchair travel I Interior design J Judo Japanese K Karate L Information Technology Knitting Lifestyle Jigsaw puzzles Magic On Wednesday October 15th the AGM was held and all existing office bearers were voted in again – Secretary David Carter Treasurer Margaret Davies Area Coordinator Henry & Gisa Weatherill Koala study Kayaking Landscaping M Monopoly Neighbourhood Watch Jazz Lighting Music Sen. Sgt Steve McReight reported on a decline in some crimes but a slight increase in break ‘n enters and cautioned residents to lock-up, not to leave garage doors open and waterfront owners to be aware as break ins from the water are slightly increasing. He reported of a missing person on that day but through the combined efforts of police and residents that person was found safe and well. He also reported on ‘Hooning’ and how the police actually work with these incidents. He urged all Neighbourhood Watchers and Residents to watch out for each other and to look out for different things, observe and report. No matter how little an incident maybe he said anything could be helpful. Mah-jong N Nature Watch Neighbourhood Support for those in need of assistance O Ornithology Off-road driving P Photography Painting Q Quilting Pottery Quizzes R Racing S Scrabble Snooker Swimming Stocks & Shares Scrapbooking Singing Spanish Sports T Theatre Ten-Pin Bowling Tennis Table Tennis U Ultra-lights V Vintage Cars Volunteering abroad or locally On November the 23rd you were invited to Christmas drinks & nibbles and all that attended had a good time. We welcomed some new neighbours, chatted, nibbled and had fun and even the mozzies were kind to us. With special good wishes for Secretary David, who has been unwell, we would like to wish you all a very Happy, Safe and Peaceful Christmas Your Neighbourhood Watch Team W Walking Wine appreciation What should you do if you see anything suspicious? X Xylophone or other instrument playing Phone local police (Noosa: 5447 5888; Maroochydore: 5479 9888) and Complex Security, (5447 7559) straightaway. If it is an emergency, call 000; later, please let Henry and Gisa (5474 4125) know about incidents. Z Zoology or animal related interest Register your interest - To assist with formation of the steering committee or any of the above suggested groups, please note this on your copy. www.noosawaters.org President Gary Trevithick Vice President Dick Patterson Treasurer Tony Van Der Linden Secretary Harvey Williams Asst Secretary Ian Wallbank Archivist / Council Liaison Water Watch Warren Burrows Landscaping Sharon Woodford Landscaping John Langdon Webmaster Howard Martin Committee Case Smit 5473 5449 5474 5473 5474 0519 9288 4109 0012 3312 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 5473 0545 [email protected] 5442 4309 [email protected] 5455 5125 5474 2230 [email protected] 5473 0475 Insurance Legal Advisor NHWatch Noosa Waters Community Website For the latest information on all Noosa Waters Resident Association activities, events and local news or issues vist www.noosawaters.org 8 Allan Day 5474 1015 [email protected] Harvey Williams 5473 0012 [email protected] Gisa/Henry Weatherill 5474 4125 neighbourhoodwatch @noosawaters.org Fine Dining Louise Taylor 0408 743 377 fi[email protected] Newsletter Kay Pallot [email protected] Seymour Liaison NWRA liaison 5449 8104 [email protected] Lost and Found Janet & John Day 5455 5835 Noosa Waters Residents Association (Inc.) DISCLAIMER PO Box 197 Noosaville 4566 The information contained in this publication has been obtained from sources deemed to be reliable, but its’ accuracy cannot be guaranteed. No responsibility for error or omission, can be accepted. Interested persons should rely on their own enquiries.