Urban Beat – Think | Beaches COVERED.

Law

WMW Lawyers

The trusted choice for legal services for over 55 years on the Beaches.

Meriton Lighthouse, 888 Pittwater Rd, Dee Why NSW 2099 | (02) 9938 2444 | www.wmw.com.au

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Finance

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Astute Financial – What the 2026 Budget Means for Your Property

The ink is barely dry on the 2026 Federal Budget, and already Northern Beaches homeowners and investors are asking the same question: what does this mean for me? With sweeping changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax set to reshape the property landscape, we asked Sam Ayliffe from Astute Manly, a local lending specialist with more than 26 years of experience, to cut through the noise.

The headline from this budget is clear: the rules have changed, but not for everyone. At the centre of it all are two reforms that will alter the way residential property investment is taxed in Australia. From 1 July 2027, negative gearing on established residential investment properties will be restricted for any property purchased after Budget night, 12 May 2026. At the same time, the 50 per cent capital gains tax discount is being replaced for those same properties, with a cost-base indexation method and a 30 per cent minimum tax on gains applying instead. It's the most significant overhaul of property tax rules in more than a quarter of a century.

For existing Northern Beaches investors, however, the message from Sam is reassuring. If you owned or had exchanged contracts before 7:30pm on 12 May 2026, your negative gearing entitlements are fully intact for as long as you hold the property. The government has grandfathered existing investors completely, meaning the changes are about future decisions, not current ones.

"Don't panic," says Sam. "But do use this moment to review your loan. Rates and products have shifted considerably; many people are still on arrangements that no longer serve them."

The budget draws a sharp line between new builds and established properties. Investors in new builds retain both negative gearing and the capital gains tax discount, keeping that pathway genuinely attractive. For established properties purchased after Budget night, those benefits are considerably reduced from July 2027.

It doesn't rule out investing in established property, it just means the numbers need more careful scrutiny upfront, and good advice matters more than ever. It poses the question: would purchases of established property look for increased rental income return to bridge the gap?

For owner-occupiers, the picture is largely positive. The main residence exemption is completely unchanged, no capital gains tax when you sell your own home. First home buyers may also find slightly less investor competition at auction as the tax incentives for established properties are wound back, with Treasury modelling suggesting property price growth could moderate modestly in the near term.

For anyone sitting on the fence about reviewing their home loan, Sam's advice is simple: do it now. "The budget has created a lot of noise, but the fundamentals haven't changed. If you're paying more than you need to on your home loan, that's money leaving your family every month. It takes 60 seconds to check. That's always been true, and it's even more relevant right now."

Looking ahead, Sam expects a period of healthy recalibration across the Beaches market. Underlying demand in this area remains strong, and for anyone with their finances in good shape and their loan regularly reviewed, there is real opportunity ahead. The Beaches has always been a resilient market, and this budget, for most people here, is more opportunity than obstacle. With Finance and Mortgage Brokers introducing 76.7% of residential homeloans*, challenge your Broker today for a better deal at your Bank or others to lower your repayments. It is important to get your structure right and personalised.

Budget measures are proposed and subject to Senate approval. Speak to a qualified adviser before making financial decisions.

Ready to check where you stand? Contact Sam Ayliffe at the Astute Manly Financial Advice Team.

And don't forget, Astute Financial Manly gives back every year. Simply take out a loan in the 2026 calendar year and you could join the six lucky borrowers before you in winning a $2,000 Christmas cashback or our scooter. See T&Cs and banner for details.•

02 9984 1911 | 0414 976 865 | manly@astutefinancial.com.au | astutefinancial.com.au/manly

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Morgans Financial – Expert Guide to Ethical Investing

Can you invest with your values and still grow your wealth? Kylie Harding thinks so, and she has the experience to back it up. A Wealth Manager at Morgans Financial Mona Vale and President of the Mona Vale Chamber of Commerce, Kylie has been reading markets since the 90s. Here, she shares what ethical investing actually looks like in practice.

In today's world, where every dollar we spend can reflect our beliefs and values, it's no wonder that investing with integrity has grown in popularity. Imagine a financial strategy that not only builds your wealth but also aligns with what you stand for. This is entirely possible through ethical investing.

Here, I’ll guide you on how to align your investments with your personal values. We'll explore the concept of ethical investing, its benefits, and practical tips to start your values-based investment journey. By the end, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions that reflect your moral compass.

What is Ethical Investing?

Ethical investing, also known as socially responsible investing (SRI) or values-based investing, involves choosing investments based on your moral principles. Instead of focusing solely on financial returns, ethical investors consider the social and environmental impacts of their investments.

Investors might avoid companies involved in activities they find objectionable, such as tobacco, weapons, or fossil fuels. Conversely, they may seek out companies that prioritise sustainability, social justice, and good governance. This approach allows you to support industries and practices that align with your values.

The Rise of Ethical Investing

The popularity of ethical investing has surged in recent years. According to the Global Sustainable Investment Alliance, sustainable investments reached $35.3 trillion globally in 2020, a 15% increase from 2018. This growth reflects a growing awareness among investors about the impact of their investment choices.

This rise is also driven by millennials and Gen Z investors, who prioritise social and environmental issues. They want their money to contribute to positive change, pushing companies to adopt more sustainable practices. Ethical investing is no longer a niche market; it's becoming mainstream.

Benefits of Ethical Investing

Ethical investing offers numerous benefits, both financially and morally. Firstly, it allows you to support causes you care about. By investing in companies that share your values, you can contribute to positive social and environmental change.

Secondly, ethical investments can be financially rewarding. Companies with strong environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices often perform better in the long run. They are less likely to face regulatory fines, lawsuits, or reputational damage, making them more stable and profitable.

Lastly, ethical investing can provide a sense of fulfilment. Knowing that your investments reflect your values can give you peace of mind and satisfaction. It's an empowering way to use your financial resources to make a difference.

Identifying Your Values

Before you start investing ethically, it's essential to identify your values. Reflect on the issues that matter most to you. Is it environmental sustainability, social justice, animal rights, or corporate governance? Your values will guide your investment choices.

Create a list of causes you care about and rank them in order of importance. This exercise will help you prioritise your investments and ensure they align with your core beliefs. Remember, there's no right or wrong answer – your values are unique to you.

Researching Ethical Investments

Once you've identified your values, it's time to research potential investments. Start by looking for companies that align with your principles. You can use resources like ESG ratings, which assess companies based on their environmental, social, and governance practices.

Several organisations provide ESG ratings, including MSCI, Sustainalytics, and Bloomberg. These ratings can help you evaluate a company's commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. Additionally, you can explore mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that focus on ethical investing.

Evaluating Company Practices

When researching companies, dig deeper into their practices. Look beyond their marketing materials and examine their actions. Do they have a track record of sustainability efforts? Are they transparent about their operations and goals?

Check if the company has received any awards or certifications for its ethical practices. Look for third-party audits and reports that verify their claims. This thorough evaluation will ensure that your investments genuinely align with your values.

Diversifying Your Portfolio

Diversification is a fundamental principle of investing, and it applies to ethical investing as well. Spread your investments across different sectors and asset classes to minimise risk. This strategy will protect you from potential losses in any single investment.

Consider investing in various industries that align with your values. For example, you might invest in renewable energy, organic agriculture, or fair-trade companies. Diversification will enhance the resilience of your portfolio while staying true to your principles.

Monitoring Your Investments

Ethical investing requires ongoing monitoring. Companies can change their practices over time, so it's crucial to stay informed about their actions. Regularly review your investments to ensure they continue to align with your values.

Set up alerts for news and updates related to your investments. This proactive approach will help you address any concerns promptly. If a company deviates from its ethical commitments, you can consider divesting and reallocating your funds.

Remember, ethical investing is not just a financial strategy; it's a way to create positive change in the world. Start today and invest in a better tomorrow. Reach out for more information. •

Waratah Court, Shop 8, 12–14 Waratah Street, Mona Vale | 02 9998 4200 | morgans.com.au/branch/Mona-Vale

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Mona Vale Chamber of Commerce – A New Rhythm for Mona Vale & Pittwater Businesses

Fresh energy. Real action. Local wins. Kylie Harding, President of the Mona Vale Chamber of Commerce, shares what's shifting in Pittwater, and why the best time to back local business is right now.

Over the past three months, I've watched something shift in Pittwater.

As President of the Mona Vale Chamber of Commerce, I'm incredibly proud of the rebuild we've been driving not as a networking club, but as a modern, local business community that gets things moving.

We've brought new energy back into the Chamber with more consistent communication, stronger connections between local operators, and a clear focus on practical outcomes. We've also welcomed new supporters and sponsors who genuinely care about this area and the people who run businesses here.

At the same time, we've launched Pittwater Business, a new collaboration designed to spotlight local businesses and make it easier to find your people across Newport, Mona Vale, Warriewood and beyond. It's local-first, community-led, and built to create momentum through partnerships, promotion and on-the-ground action.

This is what Urban Beat means to me: a town centre with confidence, a business community with a pulse, and locals choosing to back locals.

Kylie Harding, President of Mona Vale Chamber of Commerce

monavalechamber.org.au | 0412 304 539

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Politics

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Mark Smith – Someone Had to Say it

Beaches COVERED.'s political columnist Mark Smith is back, and he hasn't lost a step. After a well-earned break, Mark returns with his trademark straight talk on the issues that matter to people living real lives in the real world. This issue, he tackles the rise of populist politics, the tap-and-go debate, and a federal budget that's left many scratching their heads. Buckle up.

For some time now, people on the left side of politics have denigrated people who they don't agree with. I believe this can be traced back to Hillary Clinton's famous remark calling people who don't vote for her a 'basket of deplorables'.

This went on to motivate people to vote for Donald Trump, especially important as the US doesn't have compulsory voting. I also think this woke up a large part of the populations of many western countries, who, up until that point, had remained largely quiet.

Of course there were other factors at play, as in Britain, where people who were 'pro-Brexit' were often talked down to as not understanding the ramifications. Also branding people as racist because they wanted a reduction in immigration.

These people were, and are, making a good argument with regards to a drastic shortfall on public infrastructure and housing, dental and doctor services, and school placement availability. Simply labelling these people racist only serves to drive voters into the arms of the left's 'enemies': Trump, Farage and now Pauline Hanson.

Hanson may well have been around for years, but only now are we seeing tangible results at the ballot box. The recent state election in South Australia, and the by-election in the federal seat of Farrer, are a case in point.

With the Victorian state election later this year, it will be interesting to see how One Nation goes about selecting candidates for this race. This selection process could be tricky for the party. Even with the preselection of the new member for Farrer, David Farley, problems arose with his history of trying to become a member of the Labor party and possible donations to future opponents. In the end, this wasn't a problem as he won the seat with ease. Running many candidates in most if not all seats in Victoria won't be easy.

Further to my point, in the UK, the Reform party, headed by Nigel Farage, just won over 1,400 seats out of 5,000 council seats in the recent elections there. The British Labour party was humiliated. At the time of writing, Sir Keir Starmer was still the PM, but I doubt he will be when you read this.

Of course, the problem with these 'populist' parties is that when they go from being a protest party into government, issues can arise. The Trump administration is a great example. The people he chose for his cabinet are a motley crew at best. I could write pages on this, but I won't.

So as the Reform party in the UK and One Nation here continue to build, perhaps their critics may start to engage with them, and importantly their supporters, with a little more respect.

The 'tap and go' argument has been going on for a while in Australia, with most people happy that the Reserve Bank has stopped the banks from charging a fee to the customer when they tap for a purchase. I wonder if these people have thought it completely through.

The cost of this will now be passed on to the business, and every owner that I have spoken to has said they will increase prices to cover the cost. Are people that selfish that paying an extra few cents is a problem? After all, it is a service provided to them by the banks and the small business owners.

And what about the consumers who use cash? Especially older Australians, who will now pay more because someone is chuffed to save about 8 or 9 cents on a coffee. To me, it just feeds into my belief that we are becoming a less pleasant society.

As for the Federal budget handed down by Treasurer Jim Chalmers, in the following days it is obvious it has not been received well by the public. Personally, I think the changes to negative gearing seem sensible, but I guess time will tell.

As for the $250 payment to all wage earners, this is a perfect example of why I am a strong believer in means testing. I have no doubt there are people out there who need this money (the same with the $75 quarterly electricity subsidy), but surely not everyone.

I feel certain that many people would agree it is better to be targeted, rather than just giving it away and run the risk of increasing inflation. And it does my head in when these politicians hand back OUR money and expect credit for it. •

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Jacqui Scruby MP – Reviving the Beat of our High Streets

Independent Member for Pittwater Jacqui Scruby knows the Beaches are at their best when the community shows up for itself, and this winter, she's making sure local business has every reason to do exactly that.

Pittwater is a place people fall in love with. In summer, the beaches are full, the cafés are crowded, and visitors spill through our villages. Winter has its own magic too. Crisp mornings, winter coastal walks and a community that knows how to make the most of every season.

High streets matter. They are made up of the small businesses that are the beating heart of our communities. These are the places that give our suburbs their identity. They are where young people get their first jobs, families go out for dinner, local musicians get a start, older residents stay connected, and the character of a place is built.

This winter, we look forward to another year of the Avalon Winter Solstice Street Festival on 21 June 2026, where local businesses bring the village to life. Last year, a visitor from Los Angeles remarked it was like a ‘Truman Show’ of a village: a quintessential, perfect village experience, with locals out shopping, restaurants full and also offering food stalls, and clothing and homewares stores buzzing with activity. It is exactly the kind of activation that turns a cold June day into a celebration.

On our beaches, North Narrabeen just hosted the East Coast Invitational, a surfing comp where the Beaches’ best go head-to-head with top clubs from across the East Coast.

And of course, as they do all year-round, both small and large venues continue to support our local musical talent, bringing our restaurants and bars to life.

What’s exciting is that state policy is helping build the vibe now and into the future, and I'm working with local Chambers of Commerce, venues, and groups to make sure our region fully capitalises on what's available, including competitive grants that continue to be realised. It's paying off.

The Avalon Business Collective was awarded $170,000 under the Uptown Grant Program for the Deep North Festival, an extraordinary meeting of culture and community.

On the horizon, we have what will be an epic event; the Aloha Music Festival, run by Luke Campbell, has secured $100,000 through the NSW Government's Local Audience Development Grants program ahead of its planned launch in Collaroy. It will be an all-ages contemporary music event celebrating surf culture and featuring local and top Australian artists. It will also partner with the Australian Surf Film Festival for the first time. In November, the Northern Beaches Music Festival will bring traditional and folk music back to the Beaches after a year’s hiatus.

New reforms, such as those in the Cultural State Environmental Planning Policy are also making it easier for venues to create a great local night out – increasing outdoor dining space and allowing cafes to trade later for special events.

One of the most promising reforms on the horizon is the establishment of Community Improvement Districts, giving businesses in a defined area the tools and backing to collaborate on events, beautification, marketing, safety, lighting, and activation – partially funded through generous grants. I'm actively engaging with the business community to build my advocacy for the Northern Beaches to be declared an eligible LGA.

To work, these districts need to be driven by local business. It’s promising to see Mona Vale Chamber has renewed energy with a fantastic new president, alongside Pittwater Business: a new initiative building momentum in Newport and across Pittwater by bringing together local businesses. All are working together to create the vibe we love.

But there is more to do. Trade does drop in winter, empty shop fronts become more noticeable, and too many landlords leave premises vacant without good reason. Although, after much advocacy, we are now seeing illicit tobacconist retailers being closed, we want these shops replaced with other small businesses – not left empty.

In Parliament, I've recently given a notice of a motion to tackle this head-on by examining tax incentives to encourage landlords to lease vacant premises, and whether an empty shopfront levy should apply where properties sit idle. We also need initiatives that give small businesses a fair go with outdoor seating – both to make it easier and reduce costs.

Music and cultural events are always popular and so well attended in Pittwater and we have an army of seasoned and emerging creative talent in music, arts and fashion. I look forward to seeing everyone out and about, building the momentum to ensure sustained, year-round vibrancy that promotes creativity, supports local businesses and strengthens community connection. •

Jacqui Scruby MP | Member for Pittwater | jacquiscruby.com.au
Authorised by Jacqui Scruby MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements.

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James Griffin MP – Brewing Through the Hard Yards

As Member for Manly, backing local business isn’t just a policy position for me; it’s personal. Small businesses are the heart of what makes our community special. They are the cafés, breweries, florists, restaurants and family-run enterprises that drive our local economy, create local jobs and build the sense of connection that makes our corner of Sydney the best place to live, work and raise a family. Behind every one of them is a story of risk, sacrifice and relentless hard work.

Few places tell the story of small business transformation quite like Brookvale. Over the past decade, Brookie has evolved from an industrial backstreet into one of Sydney’s most exciting local precincts, home to independent breweries, creative industries, restaurants, gyms and makers who collectively turned it into a destination worth seeking out. 7th Day Brewery is part of that story.

I recently dropped into Brookvale to catch up with Joel Ridzuan, co-owner and General Manager of 7th Day, to get an honest read on what life actually looks like running a small business in the current climate.

What does a typical week look like for you?

“My working week is split in two: prep work early, then operational shift work on the back end. That’s life in small biz. Mondays are always frantic, debriefing the weekend, catching up with the team, paying all the bills, argh! I’m always about six weeks ahead booking bands and making posters. Work is always frantic here. We never finish all of our tasks and we’ve actually become okay with that!”

What have been the biggest challenges building 7th Day?

“Building our brand and our style has taken a long time, and now that we’ve established ourselves, we’re continually pushing the boundaries of what our brand is. Then there’s the big dogs, the corporate beer duopoly, the Japanese juggernauts, the pubs slinging $15 parmis and $6 happy hours piggybacking those pokies! The storytelling of a small, independent business on the Beaches is becoming better understood every day though. There are a lot of people out there choosing to support independent businesses, and that means everything to us.”

“The storytelling of a small, independent business on the Beaches is becoming better understood every day.”

And the wins or rewarding moments?

“Being small is also our strong arm. We use our socials to tell great stories, speak how we please and be as authentic as possible. We can be a bit controversial, make spelling mistakes, occasionally swear online; that’s human, right?! Our ability to have a big personality and throw wild, extravagant parties that no one else would dare dream of – hello Good Day Out – has become our superpower. We’ve whetted the appetite of an audience that want to be entertained, and we think we’re pretty good at doing just that!”

What are you seeing on the ground in Brookie right now?

“The 2026–27 financial year is going to be hard, there’s no doubt about it. If you’ve built up some reserves, you’ll hold firm, keep the good times rolling and push through what may just be a break-even year. On the flipside, there are businesses in the beer and distilling game with very little financial capital looking into the future. That will inevitably lead to cost cutting, pulling back on entertainment spend and using creatives to help, well, create. It’s hard to sugar-coat it, a tough year ahead if you don’t already have a strong local following. We are so thankful to be part of the beer, skate, surf, fashion and live music ecosystem here, and we are very excited for all the huge parties we’re going to throw this year!”

Joel’s story reflects a reality shared by many owner-operators across the Manly electorate. Following the Federal Budget, a number of local business owners have raised real concerns about proposed tax changes, including the removal of the Capital Gains Tax discount on assets. For many of these operators, selling a business isn’t a windfall, it’s their retirement plan, built on decades of hard work, personal risk and reinvestment into the community.

Policies that make it harder to build and grow a business risk discouraging the very entrepreneurship our area depends on. Our local businesses deserve better, and they deserve representatives who back them. When our small businesses succeed, our whole community is stronger for it.

Visit 7th Day Brewery in Brookvale or head to 7thdaybrewery.com.au to find out what’s on. To stay across what I'm doing for local businesses and our community, visit jamesgriffinmp.com. •

James Griffin MP | Member for Manly | Shadow Minister for Energy and Climate Change, Shadow Minister for Digital, Artificial Intelligence and Investment, Shadow Minister for Customer Service | www.jamesgriffinmp.com
Authorised by James Griffin funded using Parliamentary Entitlements. Words: James Griffin and Joel Ridzuan

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Education

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Barrenjoey Montessori – What Do Today's Children Really Need?

A reflection on community and connection by Melissa Chandler

As a family, we are closing out our Primary School years and I found myself reflecting. Not just on their education, but on the community that held us through those early years. Like many parents, I once believed the most important schooling years would come later. But something far more foundational was taking shape long before then. Although the academic skills being taught were important, what became clear with my eldest, now in high school, was the emphasis placed on belonging.

A Community That Raises Our Children‍

In a place like Avalon, we’re lucky to live among a thriving, caring community, but community doesn’t just happen; it’s built slowly through shared experiences, through daily interactions, when people show up
for each other.

For our family, Barrenjoey Montessori School became a place where that sense of connection deepened most.

As parents, we often talk about wanting the best for our children. But what does that really mean? Increasingly, it feels like giving them that strong sense of belonging is just as important as anything they might learn academically.

This sense of connection is something that is nurtured very early on in a Montessori School. Children spend three years in one classroom, enabling them to truly connect with their teachers and their peers. Teachers know their students deeply, as well as the family, who is seen as an extension of the class. Children learn side by side in a mixed age group, with older children guiding younger ones, and the younger children aspiring to be like the leaders of the room. The teachers see and respect each child for who they are as an individual and that deep-rooted respect, which starts from an early age and follows them through their primary years, shapes how they see themselves and others.

In a Time of Disconnection‍

It’s hard to ignore that, in many ways, modern life has made genuine connection more difficult. We’re busier, more digitally connected but often less present, and many of us are raising children without the close-knit village that once came more easily. This makes it feel even more special when you find a real, in-person community with shared values around raising thoughtful, capable, and emotionally aware children.

A school should be more than a place of education. It should be a meeting point, where families grow alongside their children, where deep friendships are formed between parents as well, where support shows up in practical, everyday ways: shared pickups, meals for a new baby, conversations over coffee, someone to call when you need advice or reassurance. They become the people who understand your child because they’ve watched them grow too.

These are the kinds of connections that last. The kind that quietly shapes our experience of parenthood and models the joy of community for our children, with the added bonus of living close by.

The Early Years, Revisited‍

Looking back, I can see that those early years weren’t just laying an academic foundation, they were shaping how my child relates to the world.

Yes, they developed independence, focus, and a genuine love of learning. But they also developed something less tangible and perhaps more important: a sense of self within a diverse community.

They learned that they are part of something. That they have a role to play. That relationships matter.

Now, as they begin to move through high school, I see there’s a grounded confidence. An ability to navigate friendships, to ask questions, to approach challenges without fear. I know that has come from the time spent in a school environment that held them and me from the early years through to primary and prepared us well for this next chapter.

A Quiet Foundation‍

Now, when I think about what young children really need, I find myself coming back to something simple. They need to feel connected: to themselves, to others,
to a community. From that place, so much else becomes possible.

Perhaps, in a world that often feels fragmented, choosing environments that nurture that connection, both for our children and for ourselves, is one of the most meaningful decisions we can make.

Come and see the community for yourself. Book a school tour today. •

Playgroup, Preschool & Primary | 2 Tasman Road, Avalon 2101 | (02) 9973 1422 | info@bms.nsw.edu.au

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John Colet – The Teachers Who Make it Home

At John Colet School, students stay with the same teachers for up to three years, creating bonds that go well beyond the curriculum. With only two classes per year group, every child is genuinely known, and genuinely cared for. We asked five of John Colet's educators four questions. Their answers say everything.

Ms Sara Bell, Class 2B

Sara Bell is in her 21st year of teaching, and her seventh at John Colet, a school she knows from the inside out. Her nieces, nephews and her own children have all come through these classrooms. She believes strong relationships are the foundation of everything, prioritising a safe, respectful environment where students feel valued, then building skills and confidence through a mix of explicit teaching and interactive learning. Outside school, she's a reader, a walker and a pickleball enthusiast. Her standout John Colet moment? School camp, every time. Watching children step into a different environment and discover their own independence and resilience, she says, is one of those things that never gets old, no matter how many years you've been doing it.

Mrs Anne-Marie Sjögren, Class 3S

Thirteen years at John Colet followed a career in the not-for-profit sector in the UK, and Anne-Marie Sjögren says she has never felt out of step with the school's philosophy. Her approach centres on stillness, giving children the chance to pause, be quiet and arrive fully before learning begins. She loves to play with language and spark a sense of fun along the way. At home, she gardens, bakes, writes stories and walks in the bush with her family, with her cat never far behind. Her favourite John Colet moment is the sound of children singing together at Speech Night, a moment she describes as incredibly uplifting. "The children are magnificent," she says simply, and you get the feeling she has said it many times and means it every single time.

Miss Dana Compton, Class 3C

Dana Compton is four years into her classroom teaching career, and she already has a philosophy that feels considered and hard-won. She attended the International Teachers' Conference in Lucca, Italy last year, studying philosophy, child development and creative arts. In the classroom, she draws on the school's focus on Stillness, encouraging students to feel calm and present before learning begins. Her ultimate goal is to inspire positive character qualities and nurture each child's unique strengths and the goodness within them. In her spare time she loves to bake, read, write and travel. Her highlight of the year is the Shakespeare Festival: watching children find courage on stage and bring a 400-year-old play to life, she says, is a powerful reminder of the magic that happens at John Colet, and a deeply important part of their education.

Mrs Maddy Bolaitamana, Class 6B

Maddy Bolaitamana's connection to John Colet runs deeper than most. She's a former pupil who went on to study in France, work in early childhood education across two countries, and return to Australia in 2017 to take up a teaching role at the very school where she was once a student. Now a mum of three (with a fondness for audiobooks played over the sound of her sons wrestling on the couch), she teaches the whole child, well beyond writing, reading and counting. "Every child should know what it feels like for their light to shine," she says. Watching her eldest son walk through the gates on his first day at John Colet was, she says, a full circle moment she will treasure. Former students returning to visit on Open Day runs a very close second.

Mr Glen Miller, Class Music, Whole School Singing and Instrumental Groups

Glen Miller has been teaching for over 30 years, from piano lessons as a student teacher to classrooms and principals' offices across London, South Africa and Victoria. These days he has what he calls "the best job in the world," leading children in song at John Colet. His teaching philosophy is quietly profound: every child is innately pure and capable, and a teacher's role is simply to remove whatever stands in the way of that potential. His hobby is walking in the mountains, which feels about right for a man of his perspective. His favourite moment at John Colet? Every time the children sing in harmony. "There are many," he says, with the quiet satisfaction of someone who has spent 30 years collecting them.

Five teachers, five stories, one school that feels more like home. If John Colet sounds like the right fit for your child, find out more at johncolet.nsw.edu.au.

John Colet School | 6 Wyatt Ave, Belrose 2085 | (02) 9451 8395 | johncolet.nsw.edu.au

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Pittwater House – A Creative Current

At Pittwater House, some of the most powerful lessons are not found in a textbook. They emerge through practice, performance, collaboration and self-expression. The school's unique blend of co-educational campus life and single-gender classes during key developmental years creates a foundation where students are encouraged to discover their passions and develop real confidence. This winter, we meet three students doing exactly that.

Suzannah | Visual Art

Medium: Graphite and Black Pencil

For Year 11 student Suzannah, art provides an opportunity to communicate ideas that matter. Her hyperrealistic artwork, Not a Trophy, was created in response to a project exploring activism in art and focuses on the devastating impact of poaching.

"Through my hyperrealistic rhino piece, Not a Trophy, I aimed to bring attention to the impacts of poaching," Suzannah explains.

"My main goal was to show the simplistic beauty of animals, in particular rhinos, when they aren't impacted by poachers."

Suzannah uses her work to encourage reflection.

"I draw inspiration from many artists, particularly those working in hyperrealism and those who focus on animal subjects. Through my artwork, I aim to highlight the environmental degradation caused by human activity and encourage greater awareness and responsibility."

While a career in art may not necessarily be her future path, Suzannah believes creativity will remain important in whatever she chooses to do.

"I hope to have a job that allows me some freedom of creativity. I would like to think that I can use the skills I have acquired through art in any future endeavours, including the importance of visual presentation and attention to detail."

William | Music

Multi-Instrumentalist

For Year 10 student William, music is both a passion and a source of constant inspiration. A multi-instrumentalist who plays double bass, electric bass and guitar, he draws widely for ideas. "I try to draw inspiration from as many sources as possible," he says. "I'm very lucky to live in a time in which music is so easily accessible through both the internet and live performance."

William also credits the people around him for helping shape his musical journey. "I'm also very lucky to be around talented tutors and peers through the school. All of these things are an amazing source of inspiration for me."

Performing regularly has allowed him to learn from others while building his confidence as a musician. "Performing at school events has given me amazing opportunities to play with incredible musicians, from my peers to professionals with a wealth of experience in music."

One standout experience was Pittwater House's recent Soul & Blues Festival, where students performed alongside acclaimed professional musicians. "The recent Soul & Blues night was a perfect example, and an absolute standout experience having been given the opportunity to play with famous musicians and industry legends alike."

Looking ahead, William hopes to continue studying music throughout high school before pursuing jazz performance at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. "After university, I'd love to have a diverse career that lets me experience as many avenues of music as possible."

Ariana | Performance

Musical Theatre

For Ariana, in Year 9, performing is an opportunity to step into another world and bring characters to life. Her performance of Amazing Mayzie from Seussical the Musical celebrates a character who is energetic, playful and full of joy. "Mayzie is an exotic bird who is upbeat, energetic, cheeky, a little bit crazy, and full of the joy of life," Ariana explains. "This musical theatre solo celebrates Mayzie's vibrant personality and carefree essence."

Ariana studies both Drama and Dance, and the support available through the Performing Arts Department has been instrumental in her development as a performer. "Through the support and opportunities they provide, I have been able to pursue my passions, study what I love, and develop my skills and confidence as a multifaceted performer." Outside school, she trains more than 22 hours each week, supported by the school's Elite Athlete and Performance Program.

Looking to the future, Ariana hopes to build a career as a triple-threat performer. "I have always loved dancing, singing and acting. I would love to continue learning from the best in the industry." One day, she hopes to perform professionally, teach, and ultimately open her own dance school, sharing her passion and inspiring the next generation of performers.

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At Pittwater House, creative pursuits are about far more than producing a performance, artwork or final result. They help students discover their strengths, develop confidence and learn what can be achieved through dedication and perseverance.

Living by the motto Semper diligens, always hardworking, students continue to push themselves creatively, searching for new ideas, embracing opportunities and pursuing excellence in all they do. In doing so, they are creating a culture that will continue to inspire future generations of Pittwater House students for years to come.

To learn more about everything Pittwater House has to offer, visit pittwaterhouse.com.au or call (02) 9972 5789 for a school tour. •

Urban Beat – Think

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