Central Coast Business Access (CCBA) - August September 2020

CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS

CCBA

AUGUST SEPTEMBER 2020 ISSUE 29

Central Coast's most sought-after business publication

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MARINERS FOR SALE Future uncertain as the owner bales: 2

TOWER WORK STARTS Historic Union Hotel site transformed: 3

AWARDS KEEP GIVING How Steve Loe built an awards institution: 7

ACCESS TRAVEL Special Sapphire Coast feature: 13

Image by Bryce Weick Photography.

WAMBER-WALL URGENT work on the construction of the sea wall at Wamberal is well underway, but the team at the site is keeping one eye on the weather maps as they battle to get it finished before the next SEE PAGE 4 East Coast Low.

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Mariners for sale, owner bales

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Would we struggle to ever get a national team again? Probably – and that would be a tragedy.”

- David Harris.

WNER Mike Charlesworth is selling Central Coast Mariners after an unsuccessful stint as owner of the A League bottom dwellers.

The future of the Mariners is now highly uncertain after long-term owner Mr Charlesworth put the club up for sale.

While FFA still have an element of control over franchise decisions - although they are increasingly taking a backseat towards an independent A-League - the decline in both club fortunes and supporter base has had a significant impact on the club.

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There has been a long-standing feeling across the league that the lack of political support and funding for the nation’s most participated sport is one of the factors contributing to the stagnation of the A-League.

Member for Wyong David Harris is a strong supporter of the Mariners.

“The decision of current majority shareholder, Mike Charlesworth, to sell his stake in the club, is partly because of the financial commitment to own and run a football club, partly because of COVID-19 and the economic hit, but also because there has not been a commitment from organisations like Central Coast Council to develop a meaningful partnership,” Harris said.

“I’m not saying Council should commit millions of dollars of ratepayers’ money to prop up the club, but I do think that there is not a willingness to properly explore options that could benefit ratepayers and the community.

“I’m a season ticket holder, I’m a foot-

ball fan and player, I love sport in general, but I have always recognised that the Mariners’ franchise was an opportunity to sell the Central Coast on the national and global stage.

“The Coast needs the Mariners much more that the Mariners needs the Coast.

A new buyer could relocate the franchise tomorrow to Canberra or Southern Sydney.

“If that happened, then we would lose our only national team, the youth structure and our ticket to the national media and sporting stage.

“Before the Central Coast Mariners, who had heard of the Central Coast in Asia and even parts of Australia?

“Would we struggle to ever get a national team again? Probably – and that would be a tragedy.”

Boost for biking, surfing

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OUNTAIN biking and surfing will get a major boost if Central Coast Council goes ahead with exciting new proposals under review.

Council has backed mountain biking as a sport and is awaiting a report on it potential and operation while surfers are excited about the potential of artificial reefs proposed to Protect Wamberal and North Entrance.

Similar reefs have worked in Sydney and on the Gold Coast and a byproduct is an increase in the lucrative surfing and scuba diving operations.

Member for Wyong David Harris has taken the matter to State Parliament and is a strong supporter of mountain biking’s potential.

CONTENTS NEWS EMMA MCBRIDE BUSINESS AWARDS ADAM CROUCH TECHNOLOGY TRAVEL CORONAVIRUS FAMILY BUSINESS GAMES CROSSWORDS AUTO

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 Bryce Weick’s impressive photo shows the sea wall being built at Wamberal to protect waterfront homes from being threatened by fierce storms.

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CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020 Central Coast Business Access (CCBA) ACCESS NEWS AUSTRALIA PTY LTD ABN 39 600 436 799 Publisher: Michael Walls M: 0407 783 413. E: michael@accessnews.com.au Journalists: Di Bartok, Elizabeth Frias.

Editor: Dallas Sherringham Account Managers: Graham Maughan: 0431 557 791; Colin Links, 0490 481 234 Contributors: David Pring, Adam Crouch, Emma McBride, Paula Martin.

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DISCLAIMER: The publisher, authors and contributors reserve their rights in respect of the copyright of their work. No part of this work may be reproduced or copied in any form without the written consent of the publisher.

No person or organisation should in any way act on the information and content of Central Coast Business Access or www.coastba.com.au without first seeking professional advice. The publisher, contributors and agents accept no responsibility for any actions that may arise from the contents of this newspaper or website www.wsba.com.au. The opinions and views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Advertisements are published in accordance with CCBA terms and conditions published in the media kit downloadable at www.coastba.com.au. Advertisers agree to indemnify the publisher and his agents for any actions that may arise as a result of published advertisements or contributions. Advertisers agree to abide by the terms of trade outlined by the publisher.

 We went on a bender in lockdown: 24

 CCBA enables readers to appreciate and engage with the physical, cutural, community and business environments of one of Australia’s most desirable places, the NSW Central Coast.

FAMILY BUSINESS  Board gender equality: mid-market companies need to take the initiative: 25

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CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020

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Work starts on the Archibald

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ORK is well underway on the construction of the Archibald, a futuristic two tower project in the site of the historic old Union Hotel.

The site at the corner of Mann St and Donnison St has traditionally been the gateway to Gosford.

It Is seen by many as the next major step in the revitalisation of the Gosford CBD with the three tower “Waterview” set to start along with the Leagues Club redevelopment..

First approved in 2015 by the Joint Regional Planning Panel as Mariner’s Plaza, the development has seen several changes, with the final modification approved last November under Section 4.55 by Central Coast Council.

Macarthur Projects Managing Director Greg Walker said the $400m development would feature two towers of 26 and 27 levels respectively in a world class urban precinct overlooking Brisbane Water.

The development is named after Archibald Acheson, the second Earl of Gosford from the 1830s.

It features 289 apartments, a rooftop bar on the eastern tower, a public bar on the Mann St promenade, a wine bar and boutique retail on the ground level and 800 car parking spaces.

The Eastern Tower will be a 167room, 4 star hotel with a conference facility and a day spa. Level 5 will have pools for both residents and hotel guests along with a gym.

Artist impression of the project.

How Coast creatives can activate our towns OUNCIL is calling on Central Coast individual visual artists or creative groups to submit their interest in utilising a variety of spaces in several town centre locations for creative endeavours.

Council’s Director Connected Communities, Julie Vaughan said the local creative and arts industry has been significantly impacted by COVID-19 and this initiative will provide much needed support.

“Council is actively developing a number of initiatives to support and sustain the Central Coast’s creative community and this one has the added benefit of activating town centres which also supports local businesses,” Ms Vaughan said.

“Council is investigating opportunities to provide access to a variety of places and spaces in our town centres to support creative practitioners and would like to hear

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from individual artists, collectives or community groups wishing to use these places to create art, showcase their work or run community workshops.”

Expressions of interest are being sought from creatives of any visual medium - including arts and crafts, ceramics, sculpture, photography, printmaking, textile and fashion, filmmaking, and other innovative visual art installations.

These spaces are in high traffic areas and available on a ‘pop-up’ temporary, casual or semi-permanent basis.

Mayor Lisa Matthews said this project is a chance for creatives to develop their practice and take up this opportunity to create, display and promote their work in the parameters that COVID-19 restrictions allow.

“This Council initiative will not only support our local artists and creative industry but will also provide a

boost to the local economy by helping to create vibrant town centres brimming with cultural vitality to attract both residents and visitors,” Mayor Matthews said.

In the meantime, Council has been working with commercial property owners and real estate agents to decorate vacant shop windows with creative decals which visually highlight the area’s key features and attractions.

Residents may have already spotted these displays at Woy Woy, The Entrance, Wyong, Gosford and Budgewoi.

For more information on the creative activation of vacant spaces and to submit your expression of interest, please contact Greg Combes at Council by email gregory.combes@centralcoast.nsw. gov.au or call 0408 807 758.

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CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020

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The great sea wall of Wamberal  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM RGENT work on the construction of the sea wall at Wamberal is well underway, but the team at the site is keeping one eye on the weather maps as they battle to get it finished before the next East Coast Low. It is critical to the future of the seaside suburb that the wall not only stops destruction of 44 homes hanging by threads, but also saves the low-lying suburb behind the massive sandhills.

An East Coast Low right now would be the worst possible outcome for the construction teams.

Teams representing NSW Government agencies and Central Coast Council are continuing in response to coastal erosion at Wamberal.

Local Recovery Coordinator Lee Shearer said a total of 44 properties had been evacuated following the significant coastal erosion event in mid-July.

“The evacuation order on all affected properties has now been lifted, excluding one home which is still considered atrisk,” Ms Shearer said.

She said 1800 tonnes of rock and 1720 tonnes of rock bags had been placed on Wamberal Beach.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said Ms Shearer was providing an independent link between the NSW Government, Central Coast Council and the affected Wamberal community.

“We are now pivoting from the recovery phase to the long-term planning phase with Dr Phil Watson appointed as Chair of the Wamberal Taskforce,” Mr Crouch said.

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Building the sea wall at Wamberal.

Photo by Bryce Weick Photography

Government taskforce to drive long-term planning, recovery “The Taskforce’s first meeting was held on August 11 and we’re off to a flying start.

“To complement the Taskforce’s work, the NSW Government is requesting that Council employ a dedicated Project Manager to provide day-to-day oversight and ensure planning for the long-term solution remains on track.

Taskforce work “Building a sea wall is absolutely essential to protect the hundreds of millions of dollars of public and private assets along Ocean View Dve.” Following the cessation of Ms Shearer’s role as the Local Recovery Coordinator, Central Coast Council has established a Local Recovery Coordination Committee to oversee the remaining emergency works and address any residual issues.

Members of the Taskforce will include: • Dr Phil Watson, Independent chair; • Adam Crouch MP, Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal; • Gary Murphy, CEO of Central Coast Council; • For the duration of her appointment as Local Recovery Coordinator, Lee Shearer APM, to ensure a seamless transition from the recovery phase; • A representative from the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (Energy and Science Group); • A representative from the Department of Planning, Industry

and Environment (Planning and Assessment); and • A representative from Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (Crown Lands).

Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock said the Government is committed to helping councils respond to existing and future challenges arising from coastal management.

“The Government has already provided $213,118 for Council to develop plans for a long-term solution for Wamberal, and we stand ready to assist Council further,” Mrs Hancock said.

With Wamberal declared a Significant Open Coast Location, Council can apply for funding to implement actions in its Coastal Zone Management Plan (CZMP) at any time.

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CENTRAL COAST AIRPORT SITUATION NOW FARCICAL  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM he future of Central Coast Airport has become a game of political football with the Government’s Adam Crouch having the infamous WAR act repealed only to see council deliberately downgrade its own asset in retaliation.

Former Mayor Jane Smith chaired the recent council meeting which was set to discuss a detailed Notice of Motion from former Wyong Mayor and airport proponent Cr Greg Best when she ambushed the topic with a sudden Amendment.

Backed by all ALP councilors, she pushed the controversial amendment through the chamber and basically turned the Central Coast Airport into a “landing area”.

Current maintenance works at the Airport will continue, however no new works will be permitted that expand its operations.

The impasse means Council has deliberately downgraded its own asset, spending millions tearing up contracts and stopping progress for no apparent reason.

Council’s treatment of its Airport in the three years it has been in power has been nothing short of “diabolical” in business terms according to busines people.

It ignored many serious expressions of interests from major aviation businesses keen to relocate to Warnervale and then tried to “hush up” its deal with Amphibian Aerospace Industries.

Access was the only Coast media outlet to pursue the AAI payout because we believed ratepayers should know how much it cost us. Council has now all but decided it will release details of the deal.

Of the almost 1000 submissions received for the WAR Act review, 75% were in favor of axing it, proving there was overwhelming support for the future development of the community owned asset.

Council chose to ignore the public and community will now have to wait until the next election to rectify the problem and get the airport back on track.

Central Coast Aero Club is recognized as one of the best training facilities in Australia and desperately needs more hanger facilities and better clubrooms for classes.

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A huge day for Bradd Allan recently when he passed his Australian Commercial pilots Licence flight test and can now work in the Australian Aviation Industry as a member of professional Air Crew.

WHAT THE AERO CLUB SAYS: Andrew Smith, President of Central Coast Aero Club Board told council: ‘The Central Coast Aero Club has always maintained that it is of paramount importance that the Airport environment at Warnervale not move outside of the current fenced boundary.

We believe that the protection of the Porters Creek wetlands and surrounding environmental conservation lands is very important, and should be recognised in future planning by council.

We also recognise that there are very high unemployment levels on the Central Coast, particularly in the North, and particularly amongst our youth.

The Central Coast Airport stands ready to alleviate this unemployment problem.

The figure quoted in the report and by senior staff is 5000 jobs if stages 1-5 of the Airport Hub master plan are realised.

It is our understanding that stages 1 to 5 can be completed with no expansion outside of the current fenced airport boundary.

Aviation businesses are very low impact and by their nature, are generators of highly skilled employment.

They also generate synergies in other sectors and can be a boon for existing Central Coast businesses.

The Master Plan expression of interest period generated 137 expressions of interest; our understanding is that this included many varied businesses from within the technological, aero-medical, education and corporate spaces.

Imagine what this sort of infrastructure could do for the future employment prospects of the youth of the Central Coast.

Councilors, this is a situation in which we truly can have our cake and eat it too.

Appropriate planning protections are already included which make destruction of the surrounding conservation lands very difficult.

Central Coast Council, as the region’s largest employer, has access to an army of committed, hard-working people who have the ability to craft a solution which contains both the Wetlands and the surrounding environmental lands and a job-generating Airport.

The Airport and the Wetlands have existed symbiotically for over 40 years, and limited, sensible development of the Airport site will continue this tradition.

Councilors, it is important to note here that the Central Coast Aero Club has nothing to gain from this submission itself; however we feel that allowing the public to comment on the usage of the site is the right thing to do by our community, irrespective of the increased competition we would inevitably face.

The terrible COVID-19 crisis which has brought the world to a standstill has required that every region has a hard look at its various spheres of opportunity and reassess what needs to be done to stop our economy falling into recession, or worse, depression.

The livelihoods of Central Coast residents are worth something, more

than something and this project appears to be ready to go and promises to realise huge gains both financially and on the jobs front.

The CCAC believes that Central Coast Council owes it to its constituents to at least have a proper look at this reduced version of the original plan, and allow the people to have their say over such a hugely consequential and possibly very important part of the Central Coast’s future.

For clarity, the CCAC opposes any lengthening of the existing runway, any extension of the Airport site beyond the current fenced boundaries, and any industry which could cause issues to the surrounding sensitive environmental lands.

We do believe in helping to stave off recession, provide more jobs for the people of the Central Coast and creating a region which is seen as desirable by the rest of our country.

This plan has a very good chance of realising all the goals stated and the Central Coast community deserves the right to be able to formally comment on it via a formal public submission process.’

WHAT’S IN A NAME? Some definitions from Google show that Council has made a mistake in renaming its facility : Airport: a complex of buildings and a runway or runways for takeoff, landing and maintenance of civil aircraft.

Landing strip/area: a runway for aircraft, especially one that is auxiliary or temporary.

NEWSBYTES New jobs at Kangy Angy NINETY new jobs are on offer after major construction finished at the NSW Government’s multi-million dollar Kangy Angy Rail Maintenance Facility. The purpose-built facility will service and maintain the New Intercity Fleet trains, with around six kilometres of electric rail lines – seven-tracks across at its widest point – a new rail bridge, access roads, offices and amenities.

Minister for Transport Andrew Constance says testing of the facility will continue ahead of the introduction of the New Intercity Fleet later this year. Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said substantial landscaping had taken place around the development.

common themes that emerged from its interactive map and online survey. Stakeholders can register their interest in a meeting through the Panel’s website www.tuggerahlakes.mysocialpinpoint.com.au/expert-panel. The meetings will be hosted om Zoom.

Shark drone coverage on Coast RESIDENTS and tourists will be better protected against shark attacks this summer, with the NSW Gov-

Online meetings an opportunity THE Tuggerah Lakes Expert Panel will host a series of online meetings to learn more from the community about key issues with Tuggerah Lakes. Following the successful conclusion of phase one of the engagement strategy the panel will take a closer look at some of the CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020

ernment expanding drone coverage to two Central Coast beaches. Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said the shark-spotting drones form one part of the NSW Government’s $8M investment in world-leading shark management technologies.

Drone operations will start at the beginning of the 2020/21 summer season. For more information, go to: www.sharksmart.nsw.gov.au.

Parthenium weed found on the Coast PARTHENIUM weed has recently been found in a Ravensdale chicken yard on the Central Coast. The weed causes health problems in humans and livestock, reduces carrying capacity of farmland, and contaminates grain. Central Coast Council Unit Manager of Environmental Management, Luke Sulkowski said that although the weed is uncommon in NSW, we need to be vigilant. NSW DPI State Priority Weeds coordinator, Nicola Dixon said with 20 infestations this year, NSW has had the highest number of parthenium incursions since 1999.

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My Coast

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Why the Coast needs a jobs plan  EMMA MCBRIDE has truly been a year like no other. First the summer bushfires, then floods and now the virus.

Just as we have before, our community has pulled together in this crisis.

But, this time, no amount of looking out for and after one another, physical distancing, working from home, home schooling or other protective measures will be enough on its own to fix the economic crisis we are now facing.

What we need is national leadership, and a clear plan to see us through these difficult times and set our economy up for the future, because there cannot be a national recovery without the regions being a big part of the story.

But, first, a quick look back.

Against the backdrop of the virus outbreak and rising unemployment, it can be easy to forget that Australian families, businesses and the national economy were struggling well before most of us had ever heard of coronavirus.

Economic growth was down, underemployment was at record highs, household debt was around record highs, business investment had collapsed, and government debt had doubled to a record high.

Many of the problems in our economy have not been caused by the pandemic, just accelerated by it.

We’ve seen this happen on the Central Coast.

Before the virus, the youth unemployment rate was 14.6 per cent, and we had the highest rate of underemployment for women in Australia at 34 per cent.

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Coasties doing it tough Just as we’ve seen nationally, the pre-existing weaknesses have been exacerbated in our community by this global health crisis and associated downturn.

Ten thousand local jobs have been lost since restrictions began in March, and there are now 34 job seekers on the Coast for every one job vacancy.

Coasties were doing it tough before and they are doing it tougher now.

Scott Morrison needs a genuine jobs plan that recognises a million Australians are already unemployed and 400,000 people are expected to lose their jobs by Christmas.

By contrast, Labor’s priority has always been to protect jobs and support

workers, businesses and communities during and after the crisis.

We have been and will continue to be responsible and constructive as this virus continues to unfold. When the Morrison Government has made the right decisions, we’ve welcomed the measures but too often they’ve left people out or been designed with the big cities in mind.

In the middle of this first recession in 30 years, much more needs to be done to protect jobs, create new jobs and prevent more Australians being left behind.

Job-creating infrastructure should be a central part of a Coast jobs plan.

Instead the Central Coast has been excluded from the Liberals’ and Nationals’

infrastructure list with the last major project – the M1 upgrade – funded by Anthony Albanese when Labor was last in government.

Communities like ours across the country need and deserve a plan from the Morrison Government to promote growth, protect jobs and create new jobs.

The Central Coast is a proud, hard-working community and with the right support we’ll have the best shot at a strong recovery and a better future for our region.

Emma McBride MP is Federal Member for Dobell.

CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020

Local Business Awards

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The awards that keep on giving  MICHAEL WALLS VER a career spanning almost 40 years, events maestro Steve Loe has clocked up some impressive stats.

As CEO of event management company Precedent Productions he has presided over 1,020 awards ceremonies, handed out 31,500 trophies and created in excess of 100 awards programs for different industries.

He is probably best known as the guiding force behind the Local Business Awards program, held over 30 areas in Australia – including the Central Coast.

While Steve has few peers in the business awards programs space, it’s his passion and simple recipe for success that makes his legacy so impressive.

As the Central Coast prepares for the second year of the Local Business Awards, CCBA publisher Michael Walls spent time with Steve to explore the evolution and highlights of the Local Business Awards Program.

CCBA: Steve, can you give our readers some background on the Precedent Local Business Awards, how and why they started?

SL: Growing up in a small corner store from the age of 1 to 25, I saw firsthand how incredibly hard my parents worked without receiving any recognition for the business they had built or for their contribution to our community. For my family and I, the business was not just an income; our whole life revolved around it.

After 28 years of trading, the family business was sold and a great legacy ended without any fanfare or acknowledgement.

This is when the idea of a recognition program was born.

And so, in the 1980s, I started the Small Business Awards in the Inner West of Sydney as a voluntary community program. In the years to follow, it grew to be a cocktail party, free of charge, where we would celebrate that year’s winners.

Not long after, the first presentation evening our patrons paid to attend was held at a restaurant made to fit only about 100 people. We managed to squeeze 180 guests into the room that night – this was the moment I realised we had an ever-growing community of small business owners, all of whom wanting to be involved year after year. Soon, the program had grown to the extent to which a dedicated management team was required. This is when Precedent Productions was launched.

It was clear the time had come to give small businesses the recognition they deserved on a better and bigger scale. From the Inner West, the awards has grown to now represent 26 areas in total around New South Wales, as well as our National program, the Australian Small Business Champions Awards. This year marks the 36th Birthday since the beginning of the original program and the best is yet to come.

CCBA: The awards have been successful for a long time, even as the world embraced technology. Why do you think that is?

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THE COAST LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS To enter the Central Coast Local Business Awards go to www.thebusinessawards.com.au.

Entries close September 3.

The gala presentation event will be held on Monday, November 30 at Mingara Recreation Club.

It’s special moments like these where I would take pause and admire our growth and commitment to making our businesses feel as special as possible with an unforgettable night.”

– Steve Loe. Precedent Productions CEO Steve Loe at last year’s Central Coast Local Business Awards.

SL: We are proud to say the process of the awards has continued to develop and evolve along with each technology boom over the past 36 years. Our customers are the businesses who are part of the program; the public who vote for the businesses; the sponsors; who provide financial support and our media partners who promote the program and we recognise all of them must continue to benefit from our program as the world changes. All registered businesses have their own personal business profile page where from the comfort of their home or work can provide their business details, questionnaire answers and team photos.

Online voting has been embraced by all, as well as the ability to purchase tickets for the events online. We have also evolved with Facebook and Instagram, ensuring we have a welcome presence online as well as making sure our customers can promote the awards easily on their own social media pages. And this year, we have introduced a personalised QR Code poster for each business in the awards.

These initiatives are slowly replacing the paper nomination forms that once appeared in the local newspapers and were distributed to local businesses. At Precedent we are always looking for ways to reduce our environmental impact whilst still maintaining the easy processes our customers are used to.

CCBA: Can you tell us about your most memorable gala event?

SL: I am lucky to have so many memorable moments from my 36-year career.

One that stands out was in 1994, having the opportunity to launch the singing group ‘Human Nature’ before they were a household name. The group performed at all our event nights that year and were an absolute hit. Around the same time was when we would transform The Sydney Fish Market auction room floors into a grand ballroom for a seafood industry night. From there, we’ve grown to host Champions evenings at the State Theatre and the Quodos Arena to name a few with over 2,000 guests in attendance each year and state of the art entertainment.

It’s special moments like these where I would take pause and admire our growth and commitment to making our businesses feel as special as possible with an unforgettable night.

CCBA: Creating events amidst COVID-19 is certainly incredibly challenging. How has your team managed?

SL: We were a week out from hosting our famous annual Champions event at

CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020

The Star in Sydney when the country was forced into lockdown, as well as having many plans in place for our 26 Local Business Awards nights. Whilst it has been an unbelievably challenging and confusing time for all, our main priority has been checking in on our small business owners to make sure they know we aren’t only an awards program, but a support network

Local Business Awards CEO Steve Loe congratulates last year’s winner Melissa Rothero.

here to help. Our team has worked tirelessly to re-organise each awards night so that our businesses can still have a night to feel special, which we feel is of utmost importance this year. Our awards evenings will commence from September 16th with 2-3 events happening around New South Wales each week, and whilst we’re still working around number restrictions and cramming a year’s work into five months, we are still managing to touch base with every business who is a Finalist and it brings us much joy to ensure them that our 2020 program is still going ahead.

CCBA: How has the market responded this year with COVID-19?

SL: Despite everything 2020 has brought us, we were delighted to be overwhelmed with such a positive response from our voters this year. It is clear the business client bases recognised they needed to show their support in any way they could, and as a result we were receiving 10,000 – 12,000 nominations per week at the height of the pandemic. Now,

with a record number of Finalists in each area, our tickets to the events are highly sought after with a waiting list for seats in each area. We are so touched by the way in which our small business community has rallied together through this time, and the only reason this year has been made possible for us is because of them and their unrivalled endurance.

CCBA: Why do you do what you do?

SL: My greatest joy in life has always been to give without expecting anything in return. What I do get back in a happy smile or an excited person or group on stage receiving their acknowledgement is truly the reason for all my satisfaction.

My business, Precedent Productions is the source of my energy. It’s the reason I get up every morning and it’s my life. I find endless joy in including everyone in celebration, conceiving and creating atmospheres that transcend time and space and connecting people in warm recognition of each other and their milestones.

CCBA: What’s planned for the Local Business Awards for the future?

What’s the 10 year vision? Any major changes planned?

SL: I have every confidence our program will continue to evolve, grow and provide the same benefits for each local community as they always have.

Technology will always change and therefore so will the way we work, but the personal touch of Precedent Productions and our inbuilt understanding of small business and what it takes to survive I believe makes us irreplaceable. We aim to see more of our programs starting and growing within all corners of our nation, as well as continuing to appeal to our younger generations of entrepreneurs as an important and valuable community to be a part of. And, perhaps my personal 10 year vision is to be happily retired, but still a guest at our awards nights ready and eager to present trophies to the winners.

CCBA: You’ve seen thousands of successful businesses, what are the top three qualities you think a successful business owner needs?

SL: One; understand your customers and provide the best products and services for them. Two; your team is everything, they make the business, so look after them. Three; set your goals and focus on them and you will achieve.

To enter the Coast Local Business Awards or for more information visit: www.thebusinessawards.com.au. CCBA is the official media partner for the awards and will produce special features to celebrate winners and finalists. Visit www.coastba.com.au

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My Coast

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Building for our future  ADAM CROUCH he numbers help to paint a picture of the challenge: between 2016 and 2041, an additional 95,250 people are expected to call the Central Coast home. While these tens of thousands of new residents will be spread across the Coast, many will be based in the highgrowth areas around Warnervale and Wyong.

This is exactly why the NSW Government is investing billions of dollars in new and upgraded schools, expanded health facilities, improved roads and essential infrastructure in our community.

It was fantastic to welcome the Premier of NSW, Gladys Berejiklian, to our local area on Tuesday, 9 August. She is acutely aware of the challenge our region faces, and under her leadership, the Central Coast has received more funding than ever before.

Wyong Hospital is currently undergoing a $200 million redevelopment to massively expand its facilities and future-proof the provision of local health services for decades to come.

Together with the Premier and Health Minister Brad Hazzard, the topping out ceremony was conducted at the new Hospital building. “Topping out” is a tradition in the construction industry when the last part of the building’s structure is completed, and a small tree is lowered onto its highest level.

When complete, Wyong Hospital will feature a new emergency department, a new intensive care unit, a new psychiatric emergency care centre, a new ambulatory paediatric unit, a new and

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expanded medical imaging department a new 28-bed medical assessment unit, and 60 additional inpatient beds with future expansion space.

We aren’t letting COVID-19 slow down the construction phase of this vital project. Concrete pouring began in April, fast forward four months, and already this has been completed. Construction is ontime and on-budget to finish in late 2021.

Around the corner from Wyong Hospital, in Warnervale, is the site for a brand new public primary school. The Premier also visited this location on Tuesday, 9 August to reveal the new school’s name and turn the first sod.

Porters Creek Public School will accommodate 460 students when it first opens in 2022, and has plenty of room to expand to 1,000 if required in the future.

The state-of-the-art facilities include 20 permanent air-conditioned learning spaces, a library, a hall, a canteen, administration facilities, a drop-off and pick-up zone and an Out of School Hours Care (OSHC) service.

Not only has planning approval and construction of this new school been fast-tracked as part of the NSW Government’s Planning System Acceleration Program, the construction phase itself will deliver 225 jobs and $38 million to the

economy. This is a big boost for our local economy at this difficult time in light of COVID-19.

Given all of the difficulties that COVID-19 has created, it’s vital that the NSW Government push ahead with job-creating opportunities across the Coast. Whether it be new and upgraded schools, expanded health facilities, improved roads or essential community infrastructure, the NSW Government is working to build a better future for our growing community.

Adam Crouch is State Member for Terrigal and Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast.

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Cash to fix local roads HE NSW and Federal Governments are joining forces to turbocharge a program to improve local roads and generate economic activity in response to COVID-19.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said $2.7M would see nine projects delivered as part of a Central Coast local roads package.

“This funding is targeted at small projects that can make a big difference to the Central Coast community in a short amount of time,” Mr Crouch said.

“Together with the Federal Government, the NSW Government has accelerated funding to get more projects underway faster. Central Coast Council will be delivering each project and this will help to drive local job opportunities.

“Central Coast Council also put forward each of the nine projects for funding and I am really pleased that all three levels

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Location

Summary of works

Cost

Gorokan Drive, Lake Haven

In-situ stabilisation of the road pavement and resurfacing to increase structural capacity and restore consistent road surface between Durham Road and Goobarabah Avenue.

$783,750

Wattle Tree Road, Holgate

In-situ stabilisation of the road pavement and resurfacing to increase structural capacity and restore consistent road surface between 57 and 181 Wattle Tree Road.

$421,500

Gregory Street, Berkeley Vale

In-situ stabilisation of the road pavement and resurfacing to increase structural capacity and restore consistent road surface.

$329,250

Cornwall Avenue, Gorokan

In-situ stabilisation of the road pavement and resurfacing to increase structural capacity and restore consistent road surface.

$259,500

The Scenic Road, Kincumber

In-situ stabilisation of the road pavement and resurfacing to increase structural capacity and restore consistent road surface between 797 The Scenic Road and Patanga Street.

$255,750

Donaldson Street, Wyong

In-situ stabilisation of the road pavement and resurfacing to increase structural capacity and restore consistent road surface from Lucca Road to 11 Donaldson Street

$228,000

Lakeview Avenue, Gorokan

In-situ stabilisation of the road pavement and resurfacing to increase structural capacity and restore consistent road surface.

$212,250

North Burge Road, Woy Woy

In-situ stabilisation of the road pavement and resurfacing to increase structural capacity and restore consistent road surface between 58 and 163 North Burge Road.

$186,750

Hillview Street, Woy Woy

In-situ stabilisation of the road pavement and resurfacing to increase structural capacity and restore consistent road surface.

$81,000

of government can work together to improve our local roads.”

Federal Member for Robertson Lucy Wicks said round one would see $2.7M invested across the Central Coast out of the $250M investment, jointly funded by the Federal and NSW Governments,

into 258 projects across a range of Local Government Areas.

“These projects will need to be delivered within two years of receiving funding, to ensure that local communities like the Central Coast are benefiting sooner,” Ms Wicks said.

“Across the Central Coast, it means smoother, safer trips along a number of roads our community use every day – roads like The Scenic Road, Kincumber and North Burge Road, Woy Woy.” Central Coast Mayor Lisa Matthews said the funding injection would help Council deliver important local road projects for the region.

“Maintaining and developing our region’s significant road network – some 2,200 kilometres – is always at the top of Central Coast Council’s priority list and we welcome this funding injection that will allow us to deliver nine projects for our community,” Mayor Matthews said.

“This funding package is another example of what can be achieved when all three levels of Government work together.”

Applications for round two of the program – funded with $500 million from the NSW Government and $191 million from the Federal Government – will open later this year.

DAs can be lodged anytime, anywhere OMEOWNERS metropolitan Sydney, Newcastle, the Central Coast and the larger regional local government areas can lodge development applications (DAs) anywhere in real-time, thanks to the NSW Government’s ePlanning mandate taking effect.

Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello said the mandate is a game changer for families and will transform the planning system.

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“Gone are the days of having to fill in piles of paperwork and travel to a council building to lodge a DA. Homeowners can now lodge DAs online in the comfort of their home,” Mr Dominello said.

“Australians love renovating their homes, and we want to make this process as hassle-free, transparent and simple as possible. This mandate puts the customer at the centre of the planning process.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the councils that

make up the initial mandate account for two-thirds of all DA determinations in NSW, which equates to $39B in investment value across the State.

“This is another example of how we’re fast-tracking the planning system so it’s more timely, transparent and certain for everyone,” Mr Stokes said.

Since July 1, councils and Principal Certifying Authorities (PCAs) operating in the areas covered by the mandate have been required to start accepting

and processing DAs, complying development certificates and post-consent certificates via the NSW Planning Portal.

From December 31, it will be mandatory for all of these applications and PCA appointments to be completed on the Portal.

This transition period will allow councils time to prepare their operating procedures and staff to implement ePlanning successfully.

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Adapting to the new normal workplace  DARRYL MCALLISTER HE COVID-19 pandemic has not only disrupted life as we know it for months, it has changed business in its wake into a new hybrid model of office and remote working.

As companies return to the workplace, they’re adjusting to this new altered reality.

78% of Australian office workers believe that once the pandemic shutdowns are over, remote working is going to become the new normal.

One of the key elements to navigating a remote working environment is to keep the flow of communication enabled so everyone can stay on the same page whether they’re working from the office or from home. This requires using the right technology solutions that can keep teams connected to each other, to their digital resources, and to their customers.

What’s one of the biggest causes of workplace failures? It’s ineffective communication, according to 86% of employees and executives.

This new hybrid workflow holds opportunities for businesses and employees alike, including increased productivity, improved morale, and significant cost savings.

Making it work means deploying tools that support not only virtual capabilities but deliver next-generation enterprise productivity and a fully collaborative experience.

For those looking to empower their digital workplace and create a productive and efficient team-based culture, the Microsoft Teams platform acts a foundation and daily launchpad for digital workplace.

According to NetCare’s Darryl McAllister, “Microsoft Teams is much more than a video conferencing app, it’s an entire platform that helps employees communicate and collaborate in the modern office. Despite the explosive uptake in the move to remote working, most companies are only using basic functionality of Teams. They don’t realise its potential, specifically that they have access to features that can maximise collaboration, enhance experiences and optimise organisational workflows.”

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How Microsoft Teams Creates a Collaborative & Productive Working Environment There are several factors that go into a successful remote working environment, video collaboration is just one of these.

Teams has multiple features that work together to create a central virtual work hub for employees no matter where they’re located, office, or home.

Teams is more than just a messaging or conferencing app, it’s a virtual office that allows everyone to connect, collaborate, and manage their business processes in one place.

Here are three ways that Microsoft Teams creates a collaborative and productive workflow:

Time Waster 73% of companies say they waste over an hour per day switching between apps. #1 Powers the Collaborative Process When everyone had to begin working from home due to the pandemic, it forced them to think of collaboration in a different way. It’s not about proximity, it’s about connectedness.

Being able to instantly brainstorm via audio, video, or text chat, share screen and work on a Word document or an Excel spreadsheet side-by-side are all capabilities that can happen across the city or across the world in Teams.

Teams has a set of collaborative tools that encourage people to interact and stay connected and make it as easy for them to interact virtually as if they were in the same room.

#2 Keeps Human Beings Connected “Face-to-Face” You can often communicate better when you can see someone’s face. The

face-to-face connection also makes us feel more in tune with our colleagues and mitigates feelings of isolation when people are working remotely.

Microsoft Teams powers video conferencing with high-fidelity audio and visual capabilities. Companies have the flexibility to host one-on-one video calls, small group meetings, or large multi-attendee webinars and conferences.

The guest feature allows you to use video conferencing with people both inside and outside your organisation, and the guest participant does not need to have a Teams account to join.

Microsoft goes above and beyond to make the video call experience as close to the real thing as possible with current and upcoming features such as: • Document, whiteboard, and screen sharing.

• Ability to join video calls from any device.

• Together Mode, which adds a common background for all participants, so they feel more connected.

• Dynamic View, giving more control over how participants are displayed

Presence indicators and status messages let everyone know who is “at the office” and available and who is currently unavailable. There are also multiple ways to filter tasks and messages so you can review those that are most important first.

The Tabs capability in Microsoft Teams allows employees to link all the assets they use in their workflow – applications, documents, websites, and more – to a specific Teams channel where that asset is used.

For example, someone working in marketing may add their social media app to the “marketing” channel tab in Teams.

This allows everyone on that channel to instantly launch each piece of their workflow from a single window, reducing wasted time spent switching from application to application.

73% of companies say they waste over an hour per day switching between apps.

Teams is fully integrated with Microsoft applications and you can also connect many third-party apps as well. Most apps, those that have the capability, open right inside the Teams window making for a more productive workflow.

#3 Workflows that are Optimised and Integrated

Ensure your modern office has the right digital tools to take you into the new business environment. NetCare can help you get set up on Teams and show you its full capabilities.

Teams works seamlessly with the other tools within Microsoft 365 and is designed to be the first-place employees go when they start their day. It’s just like walking into the office first thing in the morning, only this one is virtual.

Get Your Office Started on Microsoft Teams Today!

Darryl McAllistar is CEO at Netcare. Visit www. netcare.net.au

WE’VE GOT THE CENTRAL COAST COVERED Central Coast Business Access – the region’s only independent media covering business, progress, development and lifestyle.

Read all editions online

www.coastba.com.au CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020

11

Viewpoint

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The Entrance bank is vital OCAL bank branches are the staple of the over 50 age group communities across the Central Coast, but none more so than the Commonwealth Bank at The Entrance.

When the local branch closed “temporarily” because of COVID-19, the community was struggling to cope with many seniors not being able to use online banking.

But when the branch failed to reopen, The Member for The Entrance David Mehan saw red.

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More than 400 people have signed a petition prepared by Mr Mehan, calling on the Commonwealth Bank to reopen its branch at The Entrance.

The Entrance bank branch was temporarily closed in May as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic. It remains closed.

It all started when the Commonwealth advised it had temporarily closed 114 branches across the country.

Complaints of long queues and extensive delays at branches still open have been received by Mr Mehan’s office and

many constituents could not access their banking electronically and found the logistics of travelling to their next closest branch tiring.

“My constituents need a local branch.

It is part of their social connection to their community.”

“The decision to close has had a negative impact on business activity in The Entrance”.

“I will continue to press CBA to reopen The Entrance branch” Mr Mehan said.

David Mehan

Buy Local Campaign likes local spend INE weeks into the Central Coast’s largest buy local campaign, and the Bigger Backyard Central Coast achieves a major milestone with 427 local businesses pledging to spend $22M with each other.

According to peak business body Business NSW, the Bigger Backyard Central Coast campaign is a standout performer at encouraging business to spend locally.

“When the local Chambers came together to respond to the devastating effects ofCovid-19, designing the Bigger Backyard Central Coast campaign was a no brainer,” said Paula Martin, Regional Director Business NSW. “With over 80% of our business community affected by the pandemic at the time of launch, it was critical to provide a platform that business could use to inform each other how their business models had changed.

“Businesses on the Central Coast are

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large consumers in their own right and with disruptions to supply chains caused by the crisis, showcasing the breadth of business across the coast was vital to boost our local economy,” Ms Martin said.

“Thanks to the food and manufacturing roots of our region, coupled with a fast-growing professional services sector,

No Wish No Dream

Central Coast businesses affected by the crisis can find many things they need to operate locally.

“The Bigger Backyard Central Coast app promotes new operating hours, new customer service methods and disruptions in supply chain and distribution channels. We have seen a 40% drop in

supply chain issues since launch,” Ms Martin said.

“A united business community can be a powerful economic driver. Other regional economies have seen a threefold return when businesses spend locally. By our calculations, Bigger Backyard Central Coast has generated $65M into the Central Coast economy.”

Bigger Backyard Central Coast is the collaborative design of the Gosford Erina Business Chamber, Wyong Regional Business Chamber, The Entrance Chamber and Peninsular Chamber; supported by Central Coast Council and Business NSW. The campaign spearheads a longer-term Chamber led economic initiative called “In Good Company” designed to create a much-needed business identity for the region.

“With Covid-19presenting new challenges daily, now is the time to advocate for a business identity that is unique to the Central Coast.”

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CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020

Travel ACCESS

AUGUST 2020 Digital edition: www.issuu.com/accessnews

Edited by DALLAS SHERRINGHAM

We’re in the Business of Travel

Discover the amazing Sapphire Coast Perfect region for Central Coast residents to enjoy a relaxing getaway  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM HE magical Sapphire Coast is the perfect region for Sydneysiders to enjoy a relaxing getaway during the Spring and Summer months of this most unusual year.

When describing the Sapphire Coast, words like “pristine, wilderness, untouched” easily come to mind.

Then throw “blue waters, unspoilt beaches, oysters, local beer, adventures” and…well, you get the idea, I love this region and so will you.

You see, along this beautiful stretch of coastline you will find everything you need in a perfect holiday destination, all within a short, relaxing drive from Sydney Spring on the Sapphire Coast means standing on an ancient coastline, watching the whales as they come in close to shore.

It means Indulging in the freshest oysters grown just metres from where you dine or laying down under a sky full of stars listening to the wildlife settle in and waking to the crisp, clear dawn and the sound of the ocean.

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Only five hours from Sydney, you can take a break away from rush the rush and bustle of the city in serene surroundings.

It is the perfect place to reconnect with nature during the prime whale watching season on the Sapphire Coast.

Australian Geographic has named the Coast as one of the best places to watch whales in Australia. Travelling in large numbers and staying close to shore with their young, there is nothing quite like a close encounter of this kind.

From Eden to Bermagui, either by boat or from shore you can easily be a part of this massive migration.

The Sapphire Coast is one of the few Continued from page 13

Albacore Apartments

Experience Merimbula at its best in our 4.5 star fully self-contained accommodation. Centrally located opposite Merimbula Lake. Our 1 and 2 bedroom apartments feature large open-plan living areas, fully equipped kitchens, laundry, spa baths, heating and air-conditioning.

Private balconies with lake views and lift to all levels. Enjoy secure undercover car parking, heated pool, BBQ’s and large courtyard.

Market Street, Merimbula NSW 2548 • Phone: (02) 6495 3187 www.albacore.com.au CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020

13

Travel Each little town has a CHARM all of its own ACCESS

VISIT to the Sapphire Coast is all about little towns dotted along a pristine coastline.

Each town has a charm of its own, so leave plenty of time to explore each one on your visit to the region.

Bega is the urban centre of the Sapphire Coast, but its heart is dotted with rich lagoons and galleries and it is surrounded by rich pastures and rain forests.

Bemboka is “the Village in the Valley” and the road through Candelo leads to Wolumla and Wyndham to the South and onward to the Monaro and the Mountains to the north.

Bermagui is a beautiful town that hugs the edges of its harbor. It is the perfect place to stay awhile and relax without a traffic jam in site. You will love exploring Bermagui’s laid back lifestyle and the famous Bermagui Blue Pool.

Brogo: Just 19kms north of Bega is the stunning Brogo Dam, which is contained within the Brogo wilderness area and the southern section of Wadbilliga National Park.

Candelo: Travelling inland along the valley of the Bega River, the road ambles through rich dairy and beef country, passing the historic pastoral estate of Kameruka and arriving at the delightful little village of Candelo.

Cobargo: It combines the skills and craft of a working village with a genuinely historic past, its streetscape featuring the many turn of the century buildings that make Cobargo such an attraction for visitors.

Eden: The region is known as the ‘humpback highway’ and every year, between September and November, its waters play host to thousands of humpbacks heading home to Antarctica.

Merimbula: This true gem’s magic begins with a first glimpse of the beaches, brilliant beneath the bright sunshine.

Pambula: Enjoy a timeless day at this pretty coastal village, which is big on history, with the discovery of gold in local rivers in the mid 1800’s. Some of Pambula’s lovely historic buildings date back to this industrious time.

Tathra: Another gem, featuring sparkling shades of green and blue. It surrounds itself in the natural beauty of both Mimosa Rocks National Park to the north, and Bournda National Park to the south, home to many seabirds and an abundance of wildlife.

Wonboyn: The stunning Wonboyn Lake 30km south of Eden, is surrounded by pristine forests, unspoilt beaches and abundant animal and birdlife. It is the perfect getaway renowned for its breathtaking beauty of water and wilderness and particularly significant for bushwalkers, birdwatchers, and fishermen.

Sapphire Coast

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Images from the amazing Sapphire Coast.

CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020

Travel Discover the amazing Sapphire Coast ACCESS

Sapphire Coast

Experience the hospitality of the Sapphire Coast.

Continued from page 13

places in south east Australia that whales nurse and rest as they migrate to their summer grounds in Antarctica.

In Australia, their lives are played out across the southern hemisphere, forever migrating between the warm equator to birth their young and the frozen pole to feed.

More than 25,000 humpback whales make this journey annually plus seen orcas, southern rights and minke whales.

Once hunted for their oil and baleen, today the whales are considered guests of honor on the Sapphire Coast.

Its ancient coastline and ports offer unique opportunities for encounters from sea and shore.

There are also many short walks to take, headlands to picnic on and a small fleet of passionate boat operators.

brewers, farmers and chefs. Home to farm gates, cellar doors, bespoke cafes and waterfront restaurants.

Reconnect with Nature

This is your chance to break away from the city life with all its trials and tribulations and reconnect with nature.

My suggestion is to choose an isolated beach and settle in with a picnic or wander the many nature trails that take you along rugged clifftops.

For those seeking a little culture and creativity, visit the many galleries that feature art inspired by nature and coast or just take some time out with a good book. You can even be pampered if you wish.

Warmer weather and longer days mean a hundred adventures to enjoy along the entire Coast.

You can choose whale watching, wilderness kayaking, fishing, walk the epic coastline or just settle in with a picnic on the sand.

A visit to the Sapphire Coast in Spring is also a delicious voyage of discovery with the local produce taking centre stage.

The region is home to some of the most awarded oysters in the world. Home to some of the most awarded dairy in the world. Home to passionate growers,

Relax and Rejuvenate

For more information: www.sapphirecoast.com.au

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The continental shelf is just 20 km offshore from Bermagui– its closest point to the Australian mainland. This means exceptional deep-sea fishing. In particular, the town is known for its yellow fin tuna and the famed black marlin.

There are countless opportunities for the visiting angler to ‘do their own thing’ in Bermi. However, there really is no experience like being on the water fishing with locals. Our Charter Skipper and Deck Hands understand variations in tides, water currents, moon phases and prevailing weather patterns.

Call Bermagui Bait and Tackle to book your Charter 02 6493 5444.

Fishing Charters are available as an exclusive booking for your group or as individual fishers.

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15

Travel Stay at stunning Merimbula ACCESS

LBACORE Apartments is ideally located to explore the sparkling Sapphire Coast and is centrally located in Merimbula overlooking beautiful Merimbula Lake and only minutes’ walk to shops, clubs restaurants and the beach.

Merimbula is just a leisurely six hours from Sydney, making this destination your perfect getaway. The Sapphire Coast offers abundant unspoilt natural beauty where National Parks meet a pristine coastline.

Albacore Apartments offers a mix of generously proportioned and

Sapphire Coast

sip a cool drink on the balcony watching the changing tide or you can enjoy the heated swimming pool and sun-drenched private courtyard.

Albacore Apartments offers a number of golf packages to suit your individual needs catering for couples or large groups on any or all of the seven local golf courses

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well-designed one and two bedroom apartments all with magnificent lake views, Living spaces are open planned,

spacious and extend onto private balconies.

After a tiring day on the golf course

Details: Your host at Albacore Apartments is Cathy 02 64953187 or via email Infor@albacore.com.au.

The Camel Rock Brewery

O visit to the Sapphire Coast is complete without a visit to the famous Camel Rock Brewery.

The brewery is located within the BIG4 Wallaga Lake Holiday Park in a building known as Allawah House.

Allawah House was originally built on the shores of Wallaga Lake in 1917 on Payne's Island.

It played host to travellers on the new coastal road, offering drinks, food and accommodation. After a few moves and repurposing, the property was sold in the 1960s and became a caravan park.

Allawah House itself was extended

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and converted into five accommodation flats.

Steve and Sharon Watson purchased the caravan park in 2015 and when they and discovered the history of Allawah House, they decided to renovate the building into a microbrewery and restaurant.

The rest is history and the superb beer has gained a great reputation with visitors and locals alike. There is nothing like a cleansing ale or three on a warm Spring of Summer day and it can be accompanied by the excellent local cuisine.

Visit: www.camelrock.com.au

See whales with Cat Balou HE perfect way to see whales along the Sapphire Coast is with the experts at Cat Balou Cruises.

Cat Balou operates from Twofold Bay at Eden, named Australia’s Number One whale watching destination in 2014

by Australian Geographic.

Cat Balou Cruises has been operating since 1987 and they are considered the most experienced whale watching operators in NSW. As a family owned and operated

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business, they have gained the reputation of maintaining high safety standards, providing exceptional service and value on all cruises as well as sharing their love of the area and the ocean with their passengers.

Cat Balou Cruises were inducted into the South Coast Tourism Hall of Fame in 2013, having won numerous tourism awards during the past 28 years.

Details: www.catbalou.com.au

BIG4 Wallga Lake Holiday Park www.wallagalakeholidaypark.com.au 186-188 Wallaga Lake Rd, WALLAGA LAKE, New South Wales, 2546

+612 6493 4655 BIG4 Wallaga Lake Holiday Park is located on the shores of Wallaga Lake only 5 minutes north of Bermagui NSW on the Sapphire Coast. Activities to keep all the family entertained include; 18 Holes of Gold Rush Fever Mini Golf, Giant Jumping Pillow, Pedal Carts, Canoe Hire, Kayak Hire, Stand Up Paddle Board Hire, Tinny Hire, Tennis Court, Swimming Pool, Brewery & Licensed Cafe, Service Station and Convenience Store.

Gold Rush Fever Mini Golf

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Camel Rock Brewery & Cafe

BIG4 Wallaga Lake Fishing Tips

Canoe & Kayak Hire

Having a cool beverage or meal at Camel Rock Brewery

CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020

Travel The beautiful Loxley on Bellbird Hill ACCESS

Hawkesbury

ď Ž GRAHAM MAUGHAN HAD my first delightful experience at Loxley on Bellbird a few years ago when I was the Marriage Celebrant at a wedding.

Since then I have heard from many people that it is not only a fantastic place for a short getaway but is also one of the best venues in Sydney for weddings, conferences, forums, or meetings.

My wife Jenny who was also at the same wedding (of which I officiated) decided she wanted to celebrate her birthday in style and wanted the pleasure of staying at Loxley on Bellbird Hill in the heart of the beautiful Kurrajong Hills for a couple of days.

We chose a chalet which consisted of a fantastic view of the valley, wood fire and spa bath.

When we arrived, we were greeted by the owner Paul Maher and his son Brendon, who gave us a guided tour through-

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Owner Paul Maher.

out the 30 acre (12.15 hectares) property which features a 200 year old Kauri tree.

The tree seems to tower over the property's entrance road, the main function room, (The Kauri Room) and meeting room together with accommo-

dation areas, The Cellar, The Explorers Retreat, The Peppercorn Lodge, beautiful Chalets and of course the Honeymoon Suite.

Paul emphasised the sustainability factor of the resort. They have their own

above ground water supply consisting of 400,000 litres sourced from a 400-footdeep natural spring.

The water for the beautiful swimming pool is also sourced from the natural spring which means it is always crystal clear and clean without using chlorine or salt.

When it comes to providing your taste buds with a "party" Loxley on Bellbird has it covered. Their chefs and service staff are first class. We received in our room on both days a superb breakfast and three course dinner with bubbly and chocolates in the afternoon.

The next time you’re looking for a wedding, conference, meeting venue, or you need some space to unwind in a tranquil setting, consider Loxley on Bellbird.

It's a world class destination with professional service and an award-winning venue which respects its heritage and magnificent environment.

Graham Maughan is sales manager at Access News Australia and a seasoned traveller.

Ideal for weekend getaways, Loxley on Bellbird Hill.

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CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020

17

Travel Yeppoon is an OASIS for Aussies looking to escape ACCESS

Yeppoon

Popular playground with agreeable climate  WORDS AND IMAGES

BY DALLAS SHERRINGHAM EPPOON has become a popular playground for Aussies looking to escape the big freeze down south.

The rest of us can there all year round.

People flock there in their thousands between March and October each year. It is particularly popular with families.

It is close enough to comfortably drive there in a day or two from the southern states, yet it always seems to be warm.

Nearby Rockhampton, which borders the tropics, Yeppoon has the best and most agreeable climate in Australia according to the scientists.

You reach Yeppoon by veering east off the Bruce Hwy just north of Rocky and heading for the coast.

It is the glittering jewel in the Capricorn Coast, a string of seaside communities stretching north and south. A tropical town, it lies 700 km north of the Queensland capital of Brisbane.

Just off the coast, within sight, is Keppel Island which can be reached by daily ferry services.

I drove to Yeppoon open minded about what I would find. I knew virtually nothing about this much touted holiday

Y

18

Yeppoon is fringed by islands.

paradise. It turned out to be a typical seaside resort town with shops galore, a well-developed shoreline and the mandatory row of Norfolk Pines.

Most people stay in the apartments that overlook the town and climb upwards over the steep hill besides the main street.

The views are sublime. Sparkling turquoise blue waters, islands and palm trees combine in an intoxicating landscape.

Downtown Yeppoon was less sublime. Hordes of tourists and long lines of traffic signalled “school holidays”.

Down at the beach I wandered down to the beach and was quite surprised to see people swimming. I thought all northern beaches were dangerous, with crocodiles and deadly jellyfish vying with the sharks for the tasty “humans”.

There are beaches galore in this area and it is easy to find a secluded spot you have all to yourself.

I had heard about the famous Capricorn Resort, so I drove for 20 minutes out of town until I came to the resort sprawled out over hundreds of hectares.

It came as quite a shock to find it had

closed down. Worse still, the once beautiful championship golf course next to the resort had been allowed to “return to nature”, which was a quaint way of saying it had been abandoned.

The other 18 hole course was still open and looked to be in good condition.

Locals told me that the resort was being refurbished, but I think it has become another casualty of Australia’s high cost of holidays compared to cruise ships, Bali and Fiji.

Continued on page 19

CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020

Travel ACCESS

Sublime views across the tropical waters.

The main beach.

Apartments abound in Yeppoon.

Continued from page 18

It is cheaper to fly to Bali from Sydney and stay in a quality hotel for two weeks than it is to spend a week in Yeppoon.

Still, there were thousands of people in the town so the closure of the resort didn’t

Yeppoon

Byfield State Forest's pine plantations

affect Yeppoon as much as I thought.

Yeppoon has only entered the national psyche in the past 30 years or so, but it has a long history dating back to the days of gold mining and sugar cane plantations. A railway used to link the town with Rocky and the station has been preserved.

CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020

In the hills to the north west of town is the quaint little town of Byfield.

It is set in Byfield State Forest which looks more like a North American forest than Australia. Thousands of hectares of plantation pines have been cultivated.

Nearby is Byfield National Park

which has some stunning waterways and sub-tropical forests.

So, when the weather turns cool next year, may I suggest you head north to Yeppoon for a break. You won’t be disappointed.

Feature supplied by: www.wtfmedia.com.au

19

Travel Experience the true joys of of EXPEDITION cruising ACCESS

Cruising

 WORD BY DALLAS SHERRINGHAM  IMAGES BY MICHAEL OSBORNE HEN I set off on my first Expedition Cruise in the Kimberley several years ago I had absolutely no idea what to expect.

After 100 plus cruises on conventional ships around the world, the whole concept of undertaking an expedition on board a small ship was totally foreign to me.

I had sailed on smaller ships before, but never on such an exciting and extensive itinerary as this.

Now, it is a part of human nature to be a little hesitant in suddenly surrounding yourself with a group of strangers. I was worried about having to spend the next 10 days with people I didn’t know.

When I turned up at the wharf in Darwin to board the Coral Discoverer (then known as Oceanic Discoverer), I was greeted by half a dozen smiling faces, all eager to welcome me aboard and assist me with my baggage and camera gear.

Little did I know these people would become firm friends as the cruise progressed and would turn my experience into the journey of a lifetime.

Within a couple of days, I realised that Expedition Cruising is as much

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Continued on page 21

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CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020

Travel ACCESS

Cruising

Continued from page 20

about making friends and sharing experiences as it is about exploring new places.

Each day we would go out on the Explorer expedition boat and cruise through amazing gorges and go ashore on the wildest beaches anywhere in the world.

As a group, we found these places together and revelled in their wildness and their majesty. At every footstep in new places, we were guided by experts in wildlife and the ancient culture of this region.

This gave our explorations a layer of enjoyment and self fulfilment that is impossible to achieve on a conventional cruise.

Then as the sun settled in the west, we would gather in the upstairs lounge for a cleansing ale or a glass of wine while our expedition leaders gave a short talk on the day’s experiences. This was followed by a sumptuous a la carte dinner in luxury surroundings.

The ship was abuzz with my fellow passengers excitedly discussing the day’s adventures. After dinner we sat on the back deck in the warm, clean Kimberley air watching the stars hung like chandeliers just above our heads.

We talked for hours about the amazing places we had seen, places most Australians never get to see. We talked about many things and along the way we all confessed we had been a little bit concerned about setting off for 10 days with total strangers.

This is the true joy of Expedition Cruising. It is all about the sharing of wild places with friends and crew members who genuinely love what they do.

You can find out more about expedition style cruising at www.expeditioncruisespecialists.com.au

The highlight of the cruise came when we anchored under the impressive cliffs of a legendary Kimberley landform known as Raft Point. The crew set up a bar and a smorgasbord on the top deck and we all gathered on high.

The air was still and embracing. Coral Discoverer was shrouded in a golden glow as the sun began to disappear behind us. All eyes were fixed on Raft Point as it suddenly blazed in a deep, rich red colour. We stood in silent wonder at what we were witnessing.

Yes, Expedition Cruising holds many joys for the experienced traveller, but its true joy is the shared experience of exploring amazing places with strangers who have become close friends.

Feature supplied by: www.wtfmedia.com.au

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CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020

21

REPORT | August - September 2020

More industries to benefit from grant HE NSW Government has extended the deadline for applications to the $3,000 Small Business Recovery Grant and expanded the number of highly impacted industries able to apply.

The deadline for grant applications has been extended to 31 August 2020 with 18 additional highly impacted industries soon able to apply for the $3,000 Small Business Recovery Grant.

Minister for Finance and Small Business Damien Tudehope said the grants, funded from the $750M Small Business Support Fund, would help small businesses highly impacted by COVID-19.

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said more than 29,000 applications have already been received from small businesses and more than $71M has been paid out since the grants opened on 1 July 2020.

“It’s important we continue to support the economic recovery and we

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know our support measures are playing a vital role in keeping people in jobs and businesses in business as we continue to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mr Perrottet said.

“This grant follows the success of the Small Business Support Fund grant, which closed on 30 June 2020 with more than $500M paid to more than 50,000 businesses helping owners pay for unavoidable expenses.”

Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello said the Small Business Recovery Grant is part of the NSW Government’s more than $15B COVID-19 stimulus support measures.

“The Small Business Recovery Grant provides between $500 and $3,000 for expenses to get enterprises back to business, including for marketing and advertising expenses, fit-out changes and training staff on how to work safely

Good, but no room for complacency SW has reached a major milestone in the fight against COVID-19, with more than one million tests carried out in NSW since January.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the people of NSW should be proud of this achievement and thanked the community for doing their part to help keep NSW COVID-safe.

“NSW has one of the highest COVID-19 testing rates in the world and reaching one million tests already is an incredible result,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“I want to thank everyone in NSW who has come forward and been tested.

This needs to continue – if you have the mildest of symptoms it is so important you come forward and get tested.

“If you have already been tested and were negative but develop symptoms again, you need to come forward and get tested again.”

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said high testing numbers is critical to finding

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new cases and controlling the spread of COVID-19.

A total of 1,007,662 tests have been done since testing began, including 18,524 over the past 24 hours.

“NSW Health Pathology have been the quiet achievers during the pandemic, working incredibly hard behind the scenes, doing almost 60 per cent of these tests, averaging 7,500 a day,” Mr Hazzard said.

“They’ve also received around 290,000 registrations for their pioneering SMS Results Service that has halved the average waiting time for negative results.”

Mr Hazzard warned that the virus is likely circulating among people in the community with mild symptoms and the risk of outbreaks and a resurgence of cases remains.

“While this is a fantastic response from the community, we must keep up the fight against COVID-19 and not allow complacency to set in.”

under the current health conditions,” Mr Dominello said.

The Small Business Recovery Grant can only be used for expenses from July 1 and where no other Government support is available.

Small business owners can contact Service NSW for more information about eligibility on 13 77 88.

The 18 industries added to the highly impacted list: 1. Building and Other Industrial Cleaning Services 2. Creative Artists, Musicians, Writers and Performers 3. Employment Placement and Recruitment Services 4. Interurban and Rural Bus Transport 5. Labour Supply Services 6. Metal Coating and Finishing

7. Motion Picture and Video Production 8. Music and Other Sound Recording Activities 9. Optometry and Optical Dispensing 10. Other Allied Health Services 11. Other Goods and Equipment Rental and Hiring not elsewhere classified 12. Other Motor Vehicle and Transport Equipment Rental and Hiring 13. Other Social Assistance Services 14. Physiotherapy Services 15. Post-production Services and Other Motion Picture and Video Activities 16. Printing 17. Takeaway Food Services 18. Urban Bus Transport (Including Tramway).

Nominations open for COVID SAFE businesses OMINATIONS are now open for the 2020 SafeWork NSW Awards, acknowledging NSW businesses that demonstrate an outstanding approach to work health and safety.

Minister for Better Regulation and Innovation, Kevin Anderson said this year’s awards will recognise businesses who’ve implemented innovative and effective measures to protect their employees throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Nominations are now open and, given this year’s unique circumstances, we will focus on businesses who have best responded to the significant challenges posed by COVID-19 pandemic in the workplace,” Mr Anderson said.

“It’s not been an easy year for our businesses, and this year’s awards are a great opportunity to say thank you to the employers who have gone above and beyond to adapt their working methods

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to make sure their workers are safe.”

2020 marks the 17th anniversary of the SafeWork NSW Awards, which will be broken down into three sub-categories: • Small business – non-government (two regional and two metropolitan).

• Large business – non-government (two regional and two metropolitan) • Government.

“Non-government businesses across NSW that are selected for recognition are eligible for a $3,000 safety rebate for their business.” Mr Anderson said.

Nominations for the 2020 SafeWork Awards are open until August 9, with winners announced in October. To nominate, visit https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/advice-and-resources/campaigns/safework-awards

Help for hard-hit creative sector HE hard-hit creative sector will benefit as five new Business Connect advisors get to work, providing free-of-charge advice to small businesses affected by COVID-19.

Minister for Finance and Small Business Damien Tudehope said the creative industries were some of the most impacted industries by COVID-19 and the new Business Connect advisors would be able to share their insights with small businesses.

“In total, there are now 10 Business Connect advisors with creative backgrounds and they have the skills to help small businesses in

T The creative sector has been hit hard by COVD-19.

22

that industry to navigate the current situation,” he said.

“The advisors can also provide information about government support options for the NSW arts and cultural sector and put organisations in touch with State agencies.”

Minister for the Arts Don Harwin encouraged small creative organisations to take up the opportunity for advice from Business Connect about the support measures available.

“All guidance provided by Business Connect advisors is currently free of charge and has already proven itself to be invaluable to 6700 small businesses,” Mr Harwin said.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for the NSW arts and cultural sector that has been so greatly valued by the community over this difficult time.”

“The arts sector supports about 118,000 jobs across NSW and contributes $16.4B directly and indirectly to NSW’s Gross State Product.”

The new advisors are among an additional 40 to be engaged through Business Connect to assist small businesses as they deal with the impacts of COVID-19.

In total, Business Connect has more than 110 business advisors.

Phone 1300 134 359 for more information.

CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020

Coronavirus Report

Curing the ills of social media RTA urges Covid-19 crackdown as misinformation spreads  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM SOCIAL media’s key role in the spread of misinformation during the Covid-19 pandemic has illustrated it can be a dangerously petulant child in the hands of the wrong people.

We have known for years that Social Media is like the old Wild West with virtually no rules and regulations. Shoot first and ask questions later.

Without the constraints of proper editing and editorial guidelines and legislation it has been free to make every kind of ridiculous claim from alien invasions to every kind of conspiracy theory under the sun.

Then along came the pandemic and everything changed. What was funny and silly and entertaining took a serious turn when people started dying from Covi19 because they believed the advice of unqualified self-appointed ‘experts’.

To give you a ‘for instance’, I spend a lot of time on Facebook through my media work and these are just a few of the Furpheys I have come across: • Bill Gates started the Pandemic so he could market his vaccine.

The vaccine contains a tiny implant that will be able to track your every move. False of course but people swear it’s right.

• Covid-19 can be prevented by any number of drugs, potions and herbs, to name just a few.

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• Covid-19 is being spread by a mysterious vapor trails dropped

by Chinese jets. NO! • Covid-19 is being caused by newly installed 5G phone towers. NO! • Covid-19 is a pandemic caused by world business leaders. NO! • Praying will prevent Covid-19.

NO! • The lockdown is a plan to control and take over the masses. NO! The list goes on and on and any intelligent person with commonsense realizes they are garbage but the two things Social Media lacks which are essential in a time of crisis are commonsense and human intelligence.

They are the two things we must add to make it useable. And they are the two things often missing and the latest “outbreak” of misinformation could provide to be the deadliest of all.

Social media ‘experts’ are now telling the community to refuse Covid-19 tests for any number of outlandish reasons

Dangerous misinformation The dangerous misinformation is being targeted by Responsible Technology Australia, better known as RTA. It says Social Media needs to grow up and be transparent about the ‘infodemic’.

It said social media needed to be compelled to be transparent about the extent of its misinformation problem, particularly when it came to false information and conspiracy theories about COVID-19.

The policy group which advocates for the ethical progression of technology says the first step to countering false information about coronavirus online is showing the size of the problem.

“We have no clear picture on why people are refusing coronavirus tests, but we do know that there are fast growing conspiracy theories hampering the government’s public health measures,” Chris Cooper, executive director of RTA, said.

“Facebook and other social media platforms consistently say they are acting on misinformation, but they’ve never been transparent about the size or extent of the problem.”

RTA is calling on the social media platforms to produce a live list of the most viral content about coronavirus, to finally give the public visibility on what

information is circulating in the community.

“We don’t let restaurants just say their kitchens are clean - we have random inspections and we investigate any food poisoning, Mr Cooper said.

“We don’t just accept people are paying their taxes - the tax office audits people. We don’t blindly trust construction firms - we have building inspectors,” Mr Cooper said.

“Every important service provider or industry in our country has an inspection and enforcement method except Facebook and other social media giants.

It’s time for social media to grow up and respond to proper public oversight.

“Because regardless of how we use social media, or whether we use it at all – we are all affected by the current lack of accountability” he said.

NSW leads on virtual health care he NSW Government will investigate a wider roll-out of virtual healthcare services following the successful expansion of the NSW virtual health system during COVID-19.

The success complements the NSW Government’s record spend on health, with more than $26B invested in the NSW health care system over the past year.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said NSW patients and clinicians have embraced virtual healthcare, with a 700 per cent increase in the use of virtual health services over the four months from February to May 2020, compared with the same period last year.

“The social distancing requirements that became a necessity with COVID-19 led to a rapid ramp-up of NSW Health’s virtual care system – with more than 82,000 outpatient appointments delivered via videoconference over four months,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“Virtual healthcare has proven to be particularly effective for follow up and

and clinicians – and that’s why the NSW Government will continue to invest in the technology which provides easy to access, hospital in the home style care.

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Nation’s leaders

secondary appointments, after a patient’s initial diagnosis at a face-to-face consultation.

“Traditionally, less than a quarter of a per cent of all outpatient services are delivered via videoconference in NSW. However, by May 2020 this had risen to four per cent.

“This rapid expansion allowed patients to be cared for in their own homes without the inconvenience of travelling outside their home.

“Virtual health technology is proving to be a game-changer for both patients

“We are already nation leaders with our record health infrastructure program and now we want to lead the country in virtual health technology”.

A recent survey of patients treated by the new RPAvirtual model in Sydney Local Health District found: • 89 per cent said the technologies used by RPAvirtual improved their access to care and treatment; • 80 per cent felt confident at home knowing their symptoms were monitored daily; and • 72 per cent said the wearable monitoring devices they were provided were easy to use.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said

virtual health had proven to be particularly useful in rural, remote and regional areas of NSW, where residents have been able to access a wider range of services without travelling long distances.

“Patients have said while initial face to face contact with their treating clinician is important, follow up appointments by telehealth are well received,” Mr Hazzard said.

“It means patients in regional and rural areas don’t have the stress of travelling long distances to hospital and have better access to specialists.”

Hunter New England and Western NSW Local Health Districts have been early adopters of virtual healthcare, which has been further expanded over recent months.

It is a Premier’s Priority to reduce preventive visits to hospital by five per cent by 2023 and virtual health is an important element in achieving this goal.

The NSW Government has invested $75M over two years to support virtual health services.

Unsafe businesses risk penalties of $55k SW businesses must follow the State Government’s COVID safety warnings and public health orders or risk a penalty of up to $55,000.

More than 117,500 COVID safety plans have been downloaded in less than a month but businesses also need to register to provide customers with confidence.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said there are 10,500 registered COVID Safe businesses across NSW but she would like to see this number increase.

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“Thanks to the hard work of the community, thousands of businesses and have been able to reopen their doors and welcome back customers,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“While communities embrace the easing of restrictions and we kick start the economy, safety must come first and businesses cannot be complacent.

“Whether it’s a café, construction business, cinema or sports club, all organisations must ensure the safety of staff and customers.

There are no more excuses.”

CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020

Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello said help and assistance is available for businesses.

“Downloading an industry specific safety plan and registering as COVID Safe is simple and can be done online. Service NSW can help with any questions,” Mr Dominello said.

“Customers are encouraged to give feedback to businesses. Our focus in June was on educating industry; while our focus in July will be on compliance.”

Any business found in breach of the

public health orders will be held to account and could face a penalty of up to $55,000 or an on the spot fine of $5000.

Breach of orders made under the Public Health Act 2010 is a criminal offence and attracts heavy penalties. In the case of any business, the maximum penalty is $55,000 and a further $27,500 penalty may apply for each day the offence continues.

To download a safety plan visit https://www.nsw. gov.au/covid-19/covid-safe-businesses

23

Coronavirus Report BAD HABITS OF COVID-19

We went on a lockdown BENDER  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM AVING a drink is an accepted way of relieving stress after a hard day’s work, but during the COVID- 19 lockdown many of us went overboard.

The weeks of sitting at home were too much for one in five Aussies who now admit they drank too much during the crisis.

Eating too much was one problem we all faced and it became a source of merriment on social media and in the socially distanced general community.

However, the drinking problem has only emerged since restrictions were eased and for many it has turned into a bad habit they cannot escape.

Twenty percent of Australians wished they had drunk less alcohol during the COVID-19 lockdown, according to a new survey from the Alcohol and Drug Foundation.

And that is only people who owned up to having a problem. Casual drinking every few days also noticeably increased amongst my business associates, friends and relatives.

The survey of 1000 Australians aged 18-65 also found a similar number, nearly 20%, want to reduce the amount of alcohol they have been consuming recently.

The release of the data comes as the Alcohol and Drug Foundation launches a new national health campaign – Break the Habit – revealing that it takes on average only around 66 days to form a habit – roughly the same amount of time many Australians spent in lockdown.

It is a fact that most Aussies are unaware of, with the poll data showing that fewer than 10% of Australians were able to accurately estimate how long on average it takes to form a new habit.

Habit formation expert from the University of Melbourne, Professor Terry

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Bowles, said many of us may have picked up or formed new habits during the last few months without even realising it.

“The COVID-19 experience will have taught people different things, but for almost all of us, it has shown than we can quickly change our daily routines.”

Routine behaviours “Routine behaviors which can have a profound impact on our lives do not take a long time to form. So, as restrictions are gradually lifted across Australia and we emerge from months of isolation, we have passed the threshold of time required to establish new habits.

“That means the things we have been doing during isolation that we maybe did not do before, such as increased levels of exercise or an earlier bedtime, will be easy to keep doing. Similarly, if we started or expanded on unhelpful or unhealthy behaviors in isolation, such as increased alcohol consumption, we may find it hard to revert back to pre-isolation levels.”

The Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s new data shows that while 20% of Australians consumed less alcohol during the lockdown, a concerning number increased the amount they were drinking.

“

Enough time has passed for behaviors picked up in lockdown to become entrenched. Now is the time for Australians to reflect on their recent drinking.”

- Dr Erin Lalor.

At least 12% of people drank every day during lockdown and 1 in 10 said that, on average, they drank more than the recommended National Health and Medical Research Council’s (NHMRC) draft guidelines to reduce the risks from drinking alcohol, consuming more than 10 standard drinks per week. This increases the risk of alcohol-related injury and diseases like cancer.

The Foundation’s Break the Habit campaign highlights that even small increases to the amount of alcohol you drink can become harder to shift over time.

The campaign video features a ‘creature’ representing the little habit of drinking more than usual that some Australians picked up during lockdown. The campaign encourages people to consider their recent drinking patterns, helps them recognise any problem signs and what to do to turn them around.

Federal Minister for Health Greg Hunt welcomed the new campaign, which is funded by the Australian Government.

“The Break the Habit campaign has an important message in encouraging Australians to reflect on changes to their lifestyles in recent months, particularly around increased alcohol consumption,” Mr Hunt said.

“It’s more important than ever that we prioritise our health and wellbeing. The less alcohol people consume, the lower the risk of alcohol-related accidents, injuries, dependence and chronic illness, such as cancer. Less alcohol can also help people feel less stressed or anxious, sleep better, lose weight, improve relationships and save money.”

Alcohol and Drug Foundation CEO Dr Erin Lalor said given how tough this year had been, it was not surprising people had looked for different ways to cope, including increasing their alcohol consumption.

“The last few months have been incredibly hard for everyone, particularly for those who have lost work, social connectedness and especially for those who have lost loved ones. We’ve all been trying our best under challenging, never-before-seen circumstances,” Dr Lalor said.

“Enough time has passed for behaviors picked up in lockdown to become entrenched. Now is the time for Australians to reflect on their recent drinking, so that little habits developed over the past couple of months, don’t turn into a big problem in the future.”

Local businesses certified COVID-Safe OCAL businesses are encouraged to check, test and promote their COVIDsafe credentials as a way of minimising the potential spread of COVID-19 on the Central Coast.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said the latest data shows 590 Central Coast businesses have received a COVID-safe tick of approval.

“It’s encouraging to see 590 local businesses already certified as COVID-safe but hundreds more across the Coast must do the same,” Mr Crouch said.

“The NSW Government has put indus-

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try-specific information under the one roof, including downloadable badges for businesses with COVID-safe plans to display in their premises, so customers know they have the tick of approval.

“Every single business must do the three steps – complete a COVID-19 Safety Plan, register as a COVID-safe business, and download and display COVID-safe materials.”

Mr Crouch said non-compliant businesses could face significant penalties.

“The COVID-safe requirements are now being strictly enforced by NSW Police, Liquor & Gaming inspectors and NSW Health officials,” Mr Crouch said.

Postcode

“Following the COVID-19 safe requirements is not optional. We need to safeguard the health and safety of our community while also ensuring local businesses can remain operational.”

The Public Health Orders allow for penalties of up to $55,000, and a further $27,500 penalty for each day an offence continues, for businesses that breach these requirements. On the spot fines can also be issued.

For more information, go to: www.nsw.gov.au/ covid-19/covid-safe-businesses.

Number of COVIDsafe businesses

2083

4

2250

175

2251

40

2256

21

2257

41

2258

7

2259

103

2260

38

2261

79

2262

24

2263

52

Sanitisation station improving vehicle safety HE NSW Government’s sanitisation station at West Gosford is enhancing safety for point-to-point transport vehicles and creating new job opportunities for Central Coast residents.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said a total of 16 staff had been employed at the sanitisation station.

“The service began operating on 29 July and has sanitised 474 vehicles in this time,” Mr Crouch said.

“It’s fantastic that every single one of the 16 people employed at the sanitisation station are Central Coast locals.

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“Central Coast Taxis is contracted by the NSW Government to operate the sanitisation station and has committed to also provide long-term job opportunities for these staff.”

Mr Crouch said the sanitisation service is free and will help to keep drivers and passengers safe during COVID-19.

“Vehicle sanitisation includes disinfecting high-touch areas like outside and inside door handles, window controls, headrests and payment terminals,” Mr Crouch said.

“All point-to-point transport including taxis, Ubers, hire vehicles and community transport vehicles are eligible for the complimentary onceper-vehicle-per-day service.

“The NSW Government has worked hard to create a COVID-safe public trans-

port system, but we also want to ensure local taxis and Ubers are also COVID-safe.

“NSW Government vehicles including Ambulance, Police and HealthShare vehicles are also eligible for the sanitisation service to further support the needs of our most vulnerable passengers.”

The sanitisation station is open from 7am to 7pm on weekdays and from 8am to 5pm on Saturdays. The station is located at 7 Merinee Road West Gosford and is operated by Central Coast Taxis.

For more information, go to: www.pointtopoint. nsw.gov.au/sanitisation-stations.

CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020

WESTERN SYDNEY CENTRAL COAST

Family Business

With David Pring

Welcome Board gender equality: mid-market companies need to take the initiative Welcome to KPMG Family Business feature articles.

If you would like to discuss these articles or how KPMG can help with your business please feel free to contact me on 9455 9996 or davidpring@kpmg.com.au

 SARAH CAIN OARDROOM diversity in mid-market companies is still at modest levels and represents an opportunity for business growth, a study of ASX300 companies carried out by KPMG with the 30% Club, shows.

The report finds that, as at April 2020, companies in the ASX201-300 bracket had 22% female representation on boards, compared with nearly 32% in the ASX100 and nearly 31% in the ASX200.

We spoke to eleven ASX200 non-executive directors so they could give their advice for mid-tier companies on increasing board and senior executive diversity.

There are some positive examples – a quarter of businesses in the ASX201-300 category had achieved a 30% level of female board membership. But there are more concerning cases – over a half had either zero (23%) or one (35%) female director.

So what is the relevance of the 30% threshold? The 30% Club (which began in the UK and whose Australian chapter started in 2015) explains that this level is widely recognised as the ‘tipping point’ at which the dynamics of the board conversation change. That is the critical mass for diversity.

This was illustrated by the interviews with ASX200 non-executive directors we did during the research. A clear finding from companies which have already gone through the process of increasing board diversity was that women directors want their voices to be heard and valued on a board and do not want their appointment to risk being seen as tokenistic or ticking a box.

Female directors are more likely to join a board with more than one woman already on it – so those mid-tier businesses which the study showed have none or one female should think about the impression they are giving to the market.

Investors are increasingly asking questions on this issue – it is seen as good governance, at a time when ESG issues are becoming ever more important. Regulators too – changes to the ASX Corporate Governance Principles & Recommen-

“

B

dations last year specifically referenced boardroom diversity as good practice.

But most importantly of all, there is a bottom-line implication to this. NEDS we spoke to all agreed with what research has consistently shown – that there is a correlation between greater boardroom diversity and better business performance. And our study gave further backing to this – we found those companies in the ASX201-300 bracket which had significant female representation on their boards grew more than others in the 12 months going into the COVID-19 crisis.

There were several other key findings from the interviews: 1. Achieving board diversity is a function of leadership – NEDS said that the personal commitment of the board chair was crucial in driving a diversity agenda.

2. Diversity improves outcomes for the company in the longterm – companies in the top 200 see diversity as a business imperative, which research has proved brings long-term financial and non-financial benefits by recruiting from the broadest talent pool, challenging groupthink and improving governance and risk management.

CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020

While there are many priorities now this is not a ‘nice to have’ – mid-market companies need to see increased diversity as a business imperative coming out of the lockdown and an opportunity for growth.”

– Sarah Cain 3. Modern, growth-oriented businesses strive for greater diversity – for top companies it is now embedded in their culture but for businesses striving to get into the top 200, it is important to explicitly spell out greater diversity as a source of competitive advantage.

4. Progressive companies look beyond line experience as prerequisite for NEDS – skills, rather than direct sector line experience is key. NEDS say that many ASX300 companies tend to have a restrictive view on what they need, but diversity of skills and capabilities is more important.

5. Focus on building diversity in executive roles and senior management as well – boards need to use their influence to in-

crease diversity throughout the company and create an environment and framework conducive to female career progression into top management roles. Mentoring and role modelling is also important.

6. Companies should set stretch targets for board and senior exec diversity – NEDS say the setting of specific targets and goals is the most effective method of increasing women and other minority board members.

7. Line experience can be useful – but should not be used to preclude other candidates. Often businesses feel direct executive experience in their sector is obligatory before they will consider appointing them to their boards. This frequently acts as a barrier to females in traditionally male-dominated sectors. NEDS we spoke to say the key is the range of unique skills and capabilities a candidate will bring to complement existing board capabilities.

The strong belief of KPMG – and the 30% Club – is that the greater range of views and experiences across the boardroom table which diversity provides will be crucial in leading businesses out of the Covid-19 shutdown.

Businesses are re-imagining themselves, looking at how they use technology, future strategic direction, workplace practices, new structures and a whole range of issues. They are considering what skills they might currently lack and will increasingly need, in their boardroom and management teams.

So, while there are many priorities now this is not a ‘nice to have’ – mid-market companies need to see increased diversity as a business imperative coming out of the lockdown and an opportunity for growth.

To read the full report, visit KPMG.com.au First published by Sarah Cain, Partner, Enterprise, KPMG Australia on KPMG Newsroom on 7 July, 2020

25

Family Business

www.coastba.com.au

Gender Impacts of COVID-19: Budget update  GRANT WARDELL-JOHNSON

rise in the measured unemployment rate for women.

EFORE the COVID-19 pandemic, the gender pay gap had narrowed to a record low and women’s participation in the workforce was at its highest level.

That welcome progress is now at risk in a post-coronavirus environment. It is critical for a fast and sustainable recovery and that the labour potential of the whole population is fully leveraged.

The impacts of COVID-19 are experienced differently depending on gender. The effects on women have been changing over the course of the pandemic. In the early stages of the pandemic, the employment figures pointed to a ‘pink recession’ as the paid hours worked by women fell by more than half that of men, with women cutting back their hours by 11.5 percent compared to 7.5 percent for men.

The most recent Labour Force data (last week) found that hours worked increased more for females (5.0 per cent) than males (3.3 per cent) over the month – however hours worked for females were still around 7.3 per cent below March, compared to 6.5 per cent for males.

The loss of employment remains relatively balanced between genders, with around 4 percent less male and female workers today compared to 12 months ago.

According to today’s Economic Update the employment-to-population ratio and the participation rate declined more significantly for women than for men in the June quarter. The significant fall in female participation moderated the

JobKeeper 2.0

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The JobKeeper review found that young people and women have been disproportionally affected by the current downturn. Compared with pre-Coronavirus employment females are slightly over-represented in JobKeeper coverage.

The review found that 47.1 percent of employees receiving JobKeeper were female, compared to 44.9 percent in private sector employment.

JobKeeper 2.0 is a welcome measure to support women during the pandemic given they make up a greater share of employment in the sectors most heavily affected by virus containment measures.

Childcare The Economic Update today outlines the $312 million cost of the Early Childhood Education and Care Relief Package which provided ‘free childcare’. This measure is partially offset from CCS that would otherwise have been paid in a nonCOVID-19 environment with regular childcare attendance.

While families will continue to be supported through the pandemic by easing the Child Care Subsidy activity test requirements and ensuring childcare fees remain at their pre-COVID-19 levels, the Government may need to consider providing further support to the sector if families choose to keep their children at home while self-isolating or withdrawing their children altogether. This would be in line with JobKeeper and its continuation until March 2021.

Early Access to Super

Key insights

most of the additional burden that has come about due to home schooling and caring responsibilities.

There is a real risk that the progress made in female participation may be eroded as high workforce disincentive rates and fewer work hours available make it an unviable option for women with caring responsibilities to increase their paid work hours.

The extension of the JobKeeper program, funding for domestic violence and the Early Childhood Education and Care Relief Package have provided significant support for women impacted by the pandemic.

We would encourage the government to monitor super withdrawals under the early access to super scheme and conduct a full distributional analysis to better understand any unintended consequences of the scheme.

Other measures that the government could continue to support to ensure the crisis and recovery doesn’t disadvantage women includes investing in gender-disaggregated data including the ABS Time Use Survey and the continued focus on longer term structural changes including reviewing inequities in the super system, such as the paid parental scheme; and reviewing the affordability of childcare as a key element to a strong and sustainable Australian economy.

To read our full insights on the Federal Government’s economic and fiscal outlook please visit KPMG.com.au

While the data now indicates a slightly more balanced impact between the genders, women have still been disproportionately impacted through increased levels of non-paid care work by taking up

First published by Grant Wardell-Johnson, Lead Tax Partner, KPMG Economics & Tax Centre, KPMG Australia on KPMG Newsroom on July 23, 2020

Data from the ATO in May indicated that men are withdrawing on average 40 percent more in super than women – however, the government has not yet completed a full distributional analysis of the impact on women’s super. We would be concerned if younger women were disproportionately accessing their entire super fund balance, as has been reported by some funds. There are also long-established factors in the super system which disadvantage women.

Domestic violence The Economic Update outlines $150 million in support for Australians at risk of domestic, family and sexual violence during the COVID-19 pandemic and further support to help protect victims of family violence in family law proceedings.

This funding is welcome and supports the movement towards the fundamental right for women to feel safe in their homes and respected in their workplaces.

Other gender measures for recovery The Prime Minister noted in his address to CEDA on 15 June that the government needed to maintain a key focus on its women’s economic security statement, which would get a refresh.

While not included in today’s Economic Statement, we would welcome the refresh of this statement ahead of the October budget.

COVID-19 AN OPPORTUNITY FOR

family offices to review their purpose  KEITH DREWERY OR Family Offices (the office) now is a good time to reassess and prepare for the future through a thorough review into their structure and purpose.

F

Step one: Organise a meeting of the family and confirm the purpose of the office.

During the pandemic, ensuring communication channels are kept open with family members is a top priority, with video conferencing often the only option for a face to face meeting. While these meetings are a great way to see each other again, it’s worth using them to ensure that the role of the Family Office and what it is designed to do remains relevant. When first established Family Offices should have a sense of its ‘mission’. Essentially what the family wanted it to achieve. Perhaps it was implicit but now it’s really important to ask the question, does that mission still reflect what the family needs the office to do on its behalf?

This is also imperative if the office is serving the third or fourth generation of the family where the individual needs and wants of family members may diverge widely from its original purpose.

The term ‘family wealth’ incorporates many elements not just the financial but also its social (reputation) and human capital. The younger generations may have a different view of what it most important is this equation.

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Step 2: Consider a thorough risk review of operations and security.

We’ve been aware of an increase in the incidence and impact of risks ranging from targeted cyber security breaches, to domestic fraud and payroll misappropriations over the past few months.

It’s quite possible that risks may exist in the way younger family members use ‘social media’ often garnering unwanted attention.

Education on safe use of technology is fundamental to ensure data and reputational breaches are avoided at all costs.

At a global level, there has been an increase in threat activity directed towards high risk individuals and their private residences.

If the office’s principle purpose is to ‘preserve the wealth of the family’ making sure that all financial and non-financial risks have been identified and mitigation measures undertaken is important.

Step 3: Understand how the family’s portfolio is reacting to COVID 19 The majority of Family Offices in Australia are well positioned with sufficient liquidity in their portfolio, well supported by the actions of the government both in reaction to the crisis and before. However, it is worth identifying what holes have appeared since COVID-19? Are there extraordinary opportunities to deploy capital?

Family Office platforms enabling ‘peer to peer’ deal flow have become increasingly useful as a basis for assessing what other families are considering. Re-

cently there’s been a great deal of interest in private equity deals where ‘founders fund founders’, early stage venture into tech orientated businesses, and continued interest in ‘distressed’ situations debt.

Step 4: Review consumption patterns and family expectations.

Whilst, investment opportunities exist that can generate significant capital growth, it is likely that yields on certain more diversified pools of capital will reduce as interest rates continue to remain low and companies in the short to medium term reduce their dividend payouts. It is also likely the weakening of the US dollar will negatively impact on the amount of Australian capital generated from global equities portfolios.

One conversation that may be important is to manage the expectations of the family as regards the prospective returns the Family Office is capable of returning to the family in the next two to three years and start planning with the family what this may mean for ‘distributions’.

Step 5: Review technology and reporting Finally, many Family Offices benefit from reviewing their current reporting frameworks and utilisation of software.

The time costs related to the manual input of data and upkeep of excel spreadsheets is a common problem and can be streamlined with a more up to date approach to record keeping.

Thankfully there have been significant advances made in the capability of non-custodial reporting platforms which can lead to the reduction in Family Office investment management costs from anywhere between 10-50bps on assets under management. Now may be a good time to test the operational framework from a cost and durability perspective.

Taking these five steps will help to recast the Family Office’s role, on behalf of the family.

First published by Keith Drewery, Director, Family and Private, Enterprise, KPMG Australia on KPMG Newsroom on July 15, 2020

CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020

CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020

27

News

www.coastba.com.au

Staff there from the beginning HILST the East Gosford Bendigo Bank branch was celebrating 20 years of service in the Central Coast community, four original staff members have also celebrated their own milestone.

Julie Eastham, Michelle Clague, Tracey Anderson and Jenny Webber started employment with Bendigo Bank 20 years ago and they are still loving it.

East Gosford Branch Manager, Julie Eastham recalls her first week working for Bendigo Bank.

“There were five of us who spent a week down in Bendigo where we got to enjoy everything Bendigo had to offer,” she said.

We then spent two weeks in the East Gosford branch with a support person who assisted us into putting all that we learnt into practice.”

Being in a role for as long as 20 years is rare nowadays, but for Julie, Michelle, Tracey and Jenny the experience, skills and community has enabled them to enjoy their journey.

“I’ve been really fortunate to work with a great bunch of staff, and a great board that has always supported us.

“I particularly enjoy the community aspect, that is the thing that originally drew me to Bendigo Bank, the fact that we support our local community and put our profits back into community groups and projects,” Julie said.

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Staff at the East Gosford Bendigo Bank branch.

Senior branch manager, Michael Bell said that he has enjoyed watching the staff grow and evolve within the company.

“These staff members have the same level of commitment and dedication to their roles 20 years on. I think that is testament to the environment we have created at our branches and the community we serve,” Michael said.

Whilst some have remained in the same role, others have transitioned into different roles within the branches.

Julie has transitioned out of her supervising role into the branch manager for East Gosford and Michelle is now a business development officer working from the Kincumber branch There have been many changes to

banking in the last 20 years, such as internet banking and ATM machines but face to face service remains important.

“People value a friendly face to help them through their banking needs. the past20 years we have built a community that trusts our services, and that is a big part of why I love what I do,” Julie said.

Recovery possible on a rocky road  PAULA MARTIN RECENT survey by the state’s peak business organisation, Business NSW, suggests that businesses are less pessimistic about the months ahead, but there is still a long way to go to recovery.

“Our most recent quarterly Business Conditions Survey indicated that business conditions hit rock bottom in the June quarter, but capital spending, revenue, profit and staffing are approaching a turning point,” said Business NSW Regional Director Paula Martin.

A

“Across the Central Coast we are seeing confidence in sales, profits and importantly a need for workers with 65% of business reporting a skills shortage.

The focus has moved from downsizing business to growing the business.

“The relaxation of trading restrictions appears to have provided welcome relief for the most impacted sectors. Retail, accommodation and food services businesses are telling me they are fully booked or as busy as Christmas, which is a welcome turnaround from early in the year.” Ms Martin said.

“But we need to watch the costs of Covid-19 as they are biting hard. Open-

ing during restrictions is costing close to double in some areas like marketing, transport, energy, internet and cleaning,” Ms Martin said.

“The outbreak in Victoria has clearly impacted border communities and put in doubt what could otherwise have been an even stronger recovery.

“Subsequent restrictions have impacted business confidence. There was a 20 per cent drop in the number of NSW businesses expecting a stronger economy, and 41 per cent of businesses reported that they were more pessimistic about the impact of COVID-19 in July than they were in April.

“Businesses have entered a cost cutting phase and this reaffirms the need for urgent action on the recommendations made in our Back on Track report which outlined a COVID-recovery plan to steady the economy and protect jobs.

“Governments should continue to work closely with industry to minimise the spread of COVID-19 and to avoid a further round of crippling restrictions which would further hurt the economy,” Ms Martin said.

About Business NSW Formerly the NSW Business Chamber, Business NSW is the peak policy and advocacy body which has been representing businesses in NSW since 1826.

Walk and jog is back EMBER for Dobell, Emma McBride, has announced the third annual Grant McBride Memory Walk and Jog will go ahead in September.

“During Dementia Awareness Week, September 21-27, I’m inviting you to join me in supporting people living with dementia, their families and carers,” Ms McBride said.

“But this time, due to COVID-19, we are going virtual. I lost my Dad, Grant, to Younger Onset Dementia when he was just 68 years old,” she said.

“In my early 20s I lost my grandma to dementia.

I made a promise to my mum, Barbie that I would do everything I could to help people living with dementia and those who care for them.

M

“This year I’m inviting you to walk, ride a bike and or get active wherever you can to beat dementia.

“Just please make sure you follow COVID-19 guidelines and keep safe.

Some ideas you could do to get involved with the 2020 Grant McBride Memory Walk and Jog include: 1. Walk around your local neighbourhood.

2. Do a workout at home.

3. Sign up a team and set a MWJ Challenge .

“All you have to do to get involved is sign up at emmamcbride.com.au/memory-walk.

“Across Australia there are more than 459,000 people living with dementia and nearly 1.6 million involved in their care.

Funding available for communities around Chain Valley Bay OMMUNIUTY groups and notfor profit organisations can apply for up to $30,000 in funding for community projects in Summerland Point, Gwandalan, Chain Valley Bay and Mannering Park as part of a joint initiative between Central Coast Council and Delta Coal Pty Ltd. Council’s Community Partnerships

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Unit Manager, Glenn Cannard said the Chain Valley Colliery Community Funding Program aims to support organisations to deliver projects that improve community infrastructure and services in Chain Valley Bay and surrounding suburbs.

“Since 2013, the Chain Valley Colliery Community Funding Program has provided funding to a range of local

groups and organisations to improve and enhance the local community,” Mr Cannard said.

“Past projects to receive funding include classroom laptops for Mannering Park Public School, Northern Lakes Neighbourhood Centre Cinema Under the Stars, the Mannering Parks Tidy Towns Group ‘Keep It Clean, Keep It

Green’ initiative and a 3 Phase Converter for Manno Men’s Shed, to name just a few.”

Chain Valley Colliery/Delta Coal Community Fund guidelines and applications are available at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/funding. For more information, email community.grants@centralcoast.nsw.gov.au or phone 4350 5360.

CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020

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Auto

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with John Mellor

Toyota updates Camry styling, revamps interior and enhances SAFETY for 2021  CALLUM HUNTER OYOTA has unveiled a substantial mid-life update for its strong-selling Camry medium-sized sedan, with the overhaul bringing fresh exterior styling, a revised cabin layout and enhanced safety systems.

Not due to touch down in Australia until mid-2021, the MY21 Camry series has received a bolder, more aggressive-looking grille and front bumper combination while the rest of the body goes largely unchanged.

Inside, the dashboard has been reorganised in a bid to improve ergonomics and make it more aesthetically pleasing, including the addition of new a 7.0- or 9.0-inch ‘floating multimedia’ touchscreen, depending on the variant.

On the safety front, Toyota Australia would not be drawn into specifying what changes have been made to the Camry’s safety suite, telling GoAuto that information would be revealed closer to the updated model’s introduction next year.

That said, the US-spec Camry has been confirmed as the first Toyota model to be offered with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, the company’s latest and most advanced driver-assist active safety suite to date.

Compared to the existing system, the pre-collision system with pedestrian detection has been upgraded to now detect cyclists in daylight and pedestrians in “low-light conditions”.

“

T

Pre-Collision A new feature of the pre-collision system is the ability to stabilise the driver’s emergency steering manoeuvres while avoiding a pedestrian or cyclist within their lane.

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The radar cruise control system with stop-and-go function available on higher-series variants has been tweaked to allow for smoother acceleration when overtaking a slower vehicle, while lane-departure alert and lane-keep assist have been added to the suite.

Other new safety features include automatic high beam, road-sign assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.

No major mechanical changes have been made to the petrol-engined variants, with the familiar 2.5-litre four-cylinder and 3.5-litre V6 carried over unchanged, as is the eight-speed automatic transmission.

While not strictly included as part of the update due next year, Toyota Australia will be making some running changes

to the powertrain of the Camry hybrid as of next month, swapping out the current 245V nickel-metal hydride battery for a more efficient 259V lithium-ion unit.

Standard equipment on the American-spec cars will include Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity and an optional digital instrument cluster.

According to Toyota Australia sales and marketing vice-president Sean Hanley, the facelift will deliver a stronger look and image for the Camry as it continues to step up as an Australian favourite.

“Toyota’s reputation for quality, durability and reliability has long been a hallmark of Camry, which together with its strong and efficient powertrains, advanced safety technology and, in recent years, its hybrid drivetrain, has ensured its

Toyota’s reputation for quality, durability and reliability has long been a hallmark of Camry, which together with its strong and efficient powertrains, advanced safety technology and, in recent years, its hybrid drivetrain, has ensured its enduring appeal for Australian customers.” enduring appeal for Australian customers,” he said.

Through the first six months of this year, the Camry has dominated the sub$60,000 medium car market, occupying a massive 69 per cent of the segment with 6518 sales.

Despite its all-conquering success however, that figure is still down almost 18 per cent in comparison to the same period last year (7940 units).

Article courtesy: www.goauto.com.au

CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020

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