Wednesday 23 May 2012

Vale Don Ritchie OAM

Council endorsed a Mayoral Minute last week to pay tribute to the amazing life of Don Ritchie OAM. Hundreds of local residents and admirers attended his funeral service last Friday at the HMAS Watson Naval Memorial Chapel to farewell one of our finest community leaders. Don’s kindness and compassion touched the lives of many people. He will be missed, but we will never forget what he did for those who needed a smile, a cup of tea, a comforting word and a gentle reminder that someone indeed cared. In many cases this simple gesture was all it took to make a difference.

Gold Week Telethon

The Gold Week Telethon is the major annual fundraising campaign for Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick. People across the state hold Gold Events in their homes, schools and workplaces or attend one of our seven official Gold Events in prominent restaurants in Sydney and surrounds. All these Gold celebrations lead up to the grand finale of an all-day live broadcast on Channel Nine. Don’t forget to also tune in to Channel Nine on Monday 11 June (Queens’ Birthday Public Holiday). You can donate to the Gold Week Telethon in advance of 11 June by calling 1800 644 336.

Inspirational Cancer Council fundraiser

Last Thursday, I attended a very enjoyable and moving Cancer Council Biggest Morning Tea event organised by Kristen Webster with assistance from students of Kambala and The Scots College at the RMYC. Guest speaker, June Cassidy spoke about losing two children to melanoma. It was such an emotional speech and her courage was inspiring. Congratulations to Kristen and all those involved for organising such a worthwhile event.

Author Simon French talks about bullying, acceptance and friendship

On Thursday 21 June at 4.00pm young readers are invited to hear from well-known Australian children’s author Simon French. Simon will talk about his latest novel Other Brother, which combines the topical issues of bullying, acceptance and friendship into a wonderful and sensitive story. Readers will have the opportunity to ask questions, purchase a copy of his book and get it signed. Light afternoon tea provided. Price: free. Location: Council Chambers, 536 New South Head Rd, Double Bay. For more information: call 9391 7100.

Net Negotiations

On Wednesday 6 June at 6:30pm Woollahra Council will host a presentation to help parents and carers navigate the pros and cons of the internet and other technology. Price: $30 subsidised for Woollahra LGA residents (usually $60). Bookings essential. Location: Woollahra Council, 536 New South Head Rd, Double Bay. For more information: contact Community Development on 9391 7166.

Whale spotting

Local residents are invited to join a free coastal cliff walk and talk on Sunday 24 June from 9.00am – 11.00am. The walk will be led by our bush care officer, Rudi Adlmayer who will talk about whale migration, local fauna and flora and local history. Rudi will be assisted by Whales Alive. The walk is an easy grade. Walkers are requested to wear appropriate clothing and footwear and bring binoculars and drinking water. The meeting location will be the trigonometric station at Lighthouse Reserve, Vaucluse, just north of Macquarie Lighthouse. Bookings are essential: 9391 7141. The walk will be cancelled if weather is extreme. Another similar whale watch experience will be held on 8 July.