Mary wins Third Prize at the Council Christmas party

The Annual Northern Beaches Council Christmas party was held on Saturday 29 November, 2025 with around 200 attendees from the various bush regeneration groups around the Northern Beaches. The tables were beautifully decorated with native flowers and there was a tube stock give-a-away for each attendee. 

Lucky for us, as usual, Avalon Meats did the BBQ and produced yet again, as they do, the most wonderful succulent ham, turkey and roast pork, as well as a great array of tasty salads, (I love their potato salad) quiche and falafal for the vegetarians. It is always a great night as there is plenty of time to talk to people from other groups. NBC gave out awards for years of service and this year acknowledging two volunteers who have died, which of course included Reefcare's much loved Des.

The main excitement for the evening was around the winners for their photographic competition which is in three categories: People and place, Flora and Fauna. I have to say, that this year the photos were exceptional. Reefcare contributed 6 photos, with one of those by Mary Clarkson obtaining 3rd prize for her photo of one of the young blue tongue lizards Brad Law found in one of our working Saturdays at Long Reef.

Congratulations Mary!

Below are our other entries: Lisa with found bottle of wine by Julie W, Magpie by Mary Clarkson, Maroubra Snail by Brad Law, Merrilyn & Des with contract plants, and flowering gum by Mary Clarkson.

Text by Lisa