The fences are down and the long-awaited new amenities block at Shelly Beach is open for use.

Using natural materials to blend into the beach environment, it includes internal and external showers, change areas, baby change room, bench seating and plants. There are some finishing touches still needed, which will be completed in the coming months, but it’s great to have this new critical infrastructure ready for Easter swimmers and picnickers.

We have some incredible artists and designers here on the Northern Beaches and each year I look forward to the annual showcase of the best of the best in our Environmental Art & Design Prize.

Now in its fourth year, the Prize invites participants to submit works which explore our relationship with the environment and inspire action toward a sustainable future.

With a $20,000 prize for each category, a renowned judging panel and inclusion in the exhibition in August, the Prize is highly coveted and open to artists and designers of all levels and backgrounds. Entries close 19 May.

Or if music is more your gig, online voting is now open for the Northern Composure band comp – the largest and longest-running youth band competition in the area. Past winners have unearthed the likes of Ocean Alley, Lime Cordiale and The Rions. This year our grand final winners will support popular garage rock band The Grogans. You can watch all the heats and help your favourite band secure a spot in the live semi-finals.

Have a great weekend.

Mayor Sue Heins