Two long-time Northern Beaches residents have been paid tribute with places symbolising each of their life’s commitment being named in their honour.

Six newly-renovated Forestville Netball Courts have been named after Margaret Cliff OAM, and the ocean lookout at the Observation Point on the Palm Beach Walkway named after the late Herminie Swainston.

After extensive community consultation, Council endorsed the naming of the two locations to acknowledge the significant contributions both women have made to the community.

Mayor Michael Regan said feedback from consultation showed the majority favoured naming these landmarks to recognise individuals who had selflessly put so much back into their community.

“The heritage of place is linked closely to what we as individuals contribute to building a stronger community more connected to its history,” Cr Regan said.

“Naming these two places after outstanding Northern Beaches citizens gives them our collective thanks for what they’ve done over a lifetime of giving.”

Warriewood resident Margaret Cliff OAM is one of the most prominent figures in netball on the Northern Beaches. She has been a volunteer since 1973, is a life member of the Forest Netball Club and Manly-Warringah Netball Association.

Mrs Cliff was awarded an Australian Sports Medal in 2000 and received an Order of Australia Medal in June 2020 for services to netball.

President of the Forest Netball Club, Laurel Fisher, said Margaret was a stalwart of netball at a grassroots level, devoting nearly half a century to the administration of the sport and player and referee development.

“If you look up the definition of a volunteer, I am sure you will find the words, Margaret Cliff firmly fixed in first place. Everything Margaret has accomplished and been involved with over the last 49 years has been as a volunteer,” Mrs Fisher said.

“We are delighted to see Margaret honoured with this tribute, which she thoroughly deserves and will remain as a permanent reminder to current and future players of her selfless contribution to the sport and the community.”

President of the Manly-Warringah Netball Association, Colette Longley, said: “Margaret is dedicated, patient and just plain devoted to netball. Volunteering has been, and continues to be, a lifelong passion for Margaret. This honour is well deserved.”

The late Herminie Swainston lived in Palm Beach for over 60 years and was active in the development of the Bible Gardens and Palm Beach Walkway, a portion of which that will now bear her name – ‘Herminie’s Landing.’

An avid advocate for the natural environment, Mrs Swainston grew up in Palm Beach in a house overlooking Observation Point.

She was a well-known, long-time resident of Palm Beach where she gave a lifetime of service to the preservation of the natural landscape and public spaces in Palm Beach.

President of the Palm Beach & Whale Beach Association, Richard West AM, said Mrs Swainston was a true and caring daughter of Palm Beach.

“Herminie spent most of her 80 years working to preserve the natural environment of the Peninsula for present and future generations. She was passionate about the natural world and worked hard for bush regeneration.

“She was particularly concerned to preserve our green spaces for the benefit of all and so it is fitting that this viewing platform and pedestrian rest area on the new walkway at Observation Point with its stunning views over Pittwater and its natural environment be named in recognition of her life’s work,” Mr West said.

Public art in recognition of Mrs Swainston contribution to the community will be erected on the Palm Beach walkway.