Dear Members and Supporters,

It has been a busy year for HPG, with a focus on the Harbour Trust's Draft Master Plan for Middle Head. Busy times continue, with the Harbour Trust releasing a Draft Master Plan for North Head Sanctuary on 19 September 2023 and heralding the release of a Draft Master Plan for Cockatoo Island on 1 November 2023, both for public consultation.

Please see the details below for an update on these important matters and other HPG projects.

Revised Draft Master Plan – Middle Head

HPG lodged its submission on the Revised Draft Master Plan for Middle Head (Revised Plan) on 21 September 2023. HPG wishes to thank those who provided community feedback to the Harbour Trust by lodging submissions on the planned development of our much-loved headland.

Due to the short time frame given for the public to absorb the vast amount of information and lodge submissions on the Revised Plan, HPG provided an opportunity for the community to support HPG's position by completing our online survey.

I am pleased to advise that over 60 people have indicated their support for HPG's position, and we appreciate the many messages of encouragement for our efforts.

Please read HPG's submission to the Harbour Trust here >

Other Harbour Trust Draft Master Plans

Draft Master Plan – North Head Sanctuary

The Harbour Trust has recently placed on exhibition the Draft Master Plan for North Head Sanctuary, with submissions due on Tuesday 31 October 2023.

North Head Sanctuary is one of Sydney's great landmarks, an exceptional site known for its important ecosystem, military and First Nations values. The unique lands at North Head must be interpreted and preserved for future generations.

Read the Plan and respond to the Harbour Trust via Have Your Say here >

Draft Master Plan – Cockatoo Island

The Harbour Trust is also preparing a Draft Master Plan for Cockatoo Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site important for its convict, First Nations, military and maritime heritage. The Harbour Trust will release the Plan for public consultation on 1 November 2023. HPG will advise further details concerning the consultation in due course.

Heritage Tour of Middle Head

Successful bidders at HPG's 25th Anniversary Dinner enjoyed a heritage tour of Middle Head led by military expert Brigadier Kevin O'Brien Ret'd. and environmentalist and army veteran Alan Toner.

It was reported to be a very informative and enjoyable morning, with great enthusiasm for our wonderful Middle Head shown by all. Thank you to all who participated in the event for supporting HPG, its aims, vision and purpose.

HPG extends a special thank you to our tour guides, who generously donated their time and expertise and ensured the success of this event.

Veterans' Art Exhibition

Earlier this year, HPG sponsored a Veterans' Art Project, 'Open studio – Veterans' Stories', with a two-day workshop facilitated by renowned artist Richard Lewer.

Mosman Art Gallery will host an exhibition of the veteran's artworks together with a video of the workshop.

Exhibition dates: 10 November 2023 – 28 January 2024.

The exhibition is a chance to see the works created by the veterans as they relay their experiences through art and to hear their stories as captured on video. Richard Lewer said, "It was an extremely humbling experience to meet the veterans and a privilege to work alongside them to create art".

As always, HPG thanks you for your continued support.

Warm Regards,
Jill L'Estrange
President