Permanence lost

This February will be a big month for our family. Two young people commencing at new schools brings both excitement but also apprehension. Long standing friendships may come under strain as the Year 6 cohort spreads out to different high schools. The certainty of the nurturing environment of an early learning centre will be an interesting contrast to structured learning and the energy and busyness of the school playground.

Media is typically filled with stories of the loss of permanence! The trauma faced by those experiencing the worst flooding in decades; the experiences of those new to Australia after fleeing conflict or political unrest; those grieving the passing of loved ones because of illness or misadventure.

Stability and certainty are qualities we all long for. While, as adults, we intellectually understand that life’s journey brings many instances of a loss of permanence, the reality remains that such episodes in our life are confronting.

Coping with such change is a challenge for each of us! The approaches followed are as diverse as the population itself but there is a common thread – the benefits which flow from the nurture of family and/or community.

A smile, a kind word and positive eye contact; physical contact (a hand on the shoulder or even a hug); a gift from the heart (a home cooked meal or perhaps something observed to be needed but not openly sought); the support of a buddy in the playground or a mentor in the workplace. These gifts are of immeasurable benefit to the recipient –simple and uncomplicated but offered without thought of recompense or keeping score.

Information released by the QUT’s Australian Centre for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Studies shows that on all measures, financial giving from within the Lane Cove postcode is well beyond the NSW average. Such generosity is to be applauded and encouraged but maybe the more important data is not financial but human – not from the wallet but from the heart.

Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth. (The Bible, 1 John 3:18)

The various Chaplaincy activities offer the opportunity to join in community. To find out more or if you are seeking support, please refer to www.lanecovecc.com

On behalf of the Lane Cove Chaplaincy team, I wish you a heart-filled and happy new year!

Peter and the Chaplaincy team

P: 0410 489 161 (Pastor Rick)

E: lanecovechaplain@gmail.com www.lanecovecc.com

Supported by Lane Cove Uniting Church

Councillor Andrew Zbik, Mayor of Lane Cove

P 0411 894 788 E azbik@lanecove.nsw.gov.au

FEBRUARY 2023

The year is off to a roaring start with many Council projects full steam ahead. Firstly, Wadanggari Park at St Leonards will open mid year with new green open space and playground. Alongside the Park is Council’s new library and a 300 space car park. Just as that project finishes up, our other major project – a sport and recreation precinct at 180 River Road is planned to begin. A development application was submitted in December so we’re aiming to begin construction mid year. View a ‘fly-through’ video of what the precinct could look like on our website.

A quick mention of the Seniors Festival in February. There’s plenty of events and activities – most of which are free – to get you out and about enjoying your community. View the program on our website or pick up a hard copy from the Library or the Civic Centre.

Blackman Park upgrades

The upgrades at Blackman Park look great. The new LED sportsfield lights are installed. The new turf for the dog park will be installed early this year, after a sink hole was repaired last year. The skate park expansion begins soon so keep an eye out as it takes shape.

Central Park and Tambourine Bay Amenities

The toilet facilities at Central Park have been upgraded, with the finishing touches in place late last year. The toilet at Tambourine Bay has also been upgraded so it’s wheelchair friendly.

New waste trucks

Enjoy the art works on our flash new waste trucks – now visiting your street. They were created by four artists –Karri McPherson, Katherine Gailer (also known as KATIRA), Kim Siew and Helen Proctor (who also created the new Christie Street mural!)

New St Leonards mural on show

Check out this stunning new giant mural off Christie Street and be impressed by its design, scale, and colour. Designed and painted by artist Helen Proctor, this new St Leonards icon is an abstract of waterways and bushland. The mural is 530 square metres.

Lucretia Baths, Woodford Bay

We're working with the community on the future of the tidal pool - Jean Mitchell Lucretia Baths. The Baths, in Dunois Street, Longueville, are closed as they are unsafe. View the two options that we’re proposing, or put forward your own idea.

VISIT: www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/ haveyoursay

BEFORE 28 FEBRUARY.

Did you know?

Your community group can apply for up to $10,000 in our Community Grants program. And up to $4000 for a venue hire subsidy.

VISIT: www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/grants

To apply by 3 March, 2023