Central Coast Business Review March 2020

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March 2020

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Scott Allen Pluim Group Council addressing Coast commuter crisis #100GB4CC the future to a sustainable lifestyle on the Central Coast A first for Coast’s food industry

Page 8 Edgar Adams’ Editorial Tough start to year but

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Cover story 4 Scott Allen – Pluim Group

Continuing the legacy

Business news 7 Council addressing Coast commuter crisis 8 #100GB4CC the future to a sustainable lifestyle on the Central Coast 9 Council takes space at Nexus 10 Chamberlain to lift output following Atlanta USA Expo 10 Phoenix Packaging expands at Somersby 11 Good roll-up to Central Coast Food Alliance ‘Building Networks’ event 11 A first for the Coast’s food industry 12 Michael D’Silva appointed to Gosford Race Club Board 12 New Transcription service 12 Tim Eaton joins Central Coast Realty 12 Alan’s Quality Meats takes a spot in Fountain Plaza Precinct Erina 13 Surf Life Saving Central Coast appoints CEO 13 Barber & Coffee at Wyong 14 The Grove Studios – A Central Coast music studio leading the music industry 14 Mardi to Warnervale pipeline construction to start in March 15 Central Coast Councillors dump Gosford

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15 Heated debate over what to do about The Entrance Channel 15 Tuggerah Lake flooding disaster mostly avoidable 16 Commercial and Industrial Property For Sale / Lease 18 Property news 19 Prestige Properties for sale 20 Prestige Properties News 21 Mind your Business – Pre-June Tax Review 21 What does it mean for an employee to be ‘working’ 22 The Future of Law 22 Supply chain finance

Regular features 6 Edgar Adams’ Editorial 10 Manufacturing news 12 Business Briefs 14 Central Coast news 15 Central Coast Council news 16 Commercial and Industrial Properties for sale / lease 18 Property news 19 Prestige Properties for sale 20 Prestige Properties news 21 Business Tips 23 Funny business

Front cover: Scott Allen – Photo: Jeff McGarn

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Central Coast Business Review Central Coast Business Review is a Registered Trade Mark of Adams Business Publications Pty Ltd P.O. Box 3259, Erina, NSW 2250 Phone: (02) 4367 0733 Fax: (02) 4367 0744 Email: info@ccbusinessreview.com.au Typesetting by Graphic by Design ph (02) 4365 6777 Print & Distribution by Bromley Direct ph 0412 439 773 © Adams Business Publications 1994. All rights reserved.

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COV ER S TORY

Scott Allen, Pluim Group – Continuing the legacy EVERY GREAT BUILD begins with a strong foundation. In the case of West Gosford based commercial construction company, the Pluim Group, the strong foundation was forged more than seven decades ago right here on the Central Coast. The Pluim Group’s journey over that time is a family business succession story with an interesting twist. The baton was passed from founder, Bill Pluim to valued long-term staff member, Graham Allen in 1978. And so a new family was entrusted to lead the growth and evolution of this company, one that was built on a solid foundation of trust, experience and exceptionally strong values. With each generation, those foundations have only grown stronger.

Today, Graham’s son, Scott continues the legacy and, along with his team, is taking the Pluim Group, one of the state’s longest running and most successful building contractors, into an exciting future.

World War II had just ended when Dutch Navy sailor and master tradesman, Bill Pluim immigrated to to Australia and settled on the Central Coast. He was joined by friends and fellow tradesmen, Henk Brendel and Wim DeJong. The trio started a small construction business in 1946 and their combined skills and passion for getting a job done efficiently and with the flexibility demanded in the post-war era ensured the Pluim Group quickly made its mark in the area. The Central Coast was chosen as it was ideally positioned between Newcastle and Sydney, a decision that has since proven advantageous for the regionally

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focused company. Completing a number of projects for the Commonwealth Bank set them on the commercial path from the outset. Buying the partners out of the business in 1958, Bill employed Graham Allen as an apprentice two years later. Over the next two decades, the Pluim Group played an integral role in shaping the Central Coast, constructing many of the commercial buildings and educational facilities that still stand today. During that time, Graham worked his way through the business, from the joinery shop to estimating and project management, becoming Bill’s understudy and succession plan. In 1978, Bill retired and sold the business to Graham, who continued running it based on the philosophies instilled by Bill.

Graham’s son, Scott came on board as an apprentice carpenter in 1997. “I always knew I was going to be a builder.

But coming on as the owner’s son, I felt I had to work harder than the next guy to prove myself,” said Scott, who, like his father, worked his way through the ranks and eventually took over managing the construction side of the business. “Dad was a great mentor and an even better mate,” reflected Scott, who took the reigns from his father in 2007. “At that time, pre-GFC, we were doing a lot of project work in Queensland because that was where the work was. After the GFC hit, we retracted back to our base and decided to refocus on what we do best, and that’s serving the regions.” Pluim’s core areas today are the Central Coast, Newcastle, Hunter and New England regions, capably serviced by a staff of twenty and a regional network of trusted long-term subcontractors.

While the scale of Pluim’s commercial and industrial building business and the

By Phaedra Pym

industry sectors they serve has changed over the years, the core values of the business have remained the same. Those strong values coupled with other key points of difference to their competitors, including a stable workforce, an unwavering commitment to customer service, diversity, scalability, world-class technology and innovation and unmatched experience allow them to punch above their weight and always deliver, even on projects that place them in unfamiliar territory. An example of this was the re-building of the heritage-listed Denman Community Hall for Muswellbrook Council in straw bale, a material they had no prior experience with. “We got a good fire engineer on board, worked through the compliance challenges and won the tender.

What we find with design and construct is that the more design time you put in at the front of the job and the better you are at helping the client walk the journey with you, the more confidence they have in you,” said Scott. Highlighting their IP at the front end of a project has become one of Pluim’s signature strengths and it’s something Scott is passionate about. “I actually like a high barrier entry to market. Our solutions are the result of good collaboration with great consultants, engineers, geotechs and the rest of the design team relevant to a project. We work through what the client wants together. Those consultant relationships are crucial. They know we’re all here for the long-term solution for our client, not a quick commercial transaction.”

As a scalable company, Pluim has a distinct competitive advantage. “We are a relatively small business and a contracting entity. So we can scale up for a 50 or 100 million dollar project and scale back to operational sustainability on project com-

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COV ER S TORY

pletion,” said Scott. This has served Pluim well through various economic cycles and benefits clients because it facilitates project delivery using specialists in their field with a focus on an optimal enduring quality build achieved in the most efficient and cost effective manner possible. Pluim’s commitment to paying contractors on time, a commitment passed down to each owner, has earned them a strong reputation rewarded by loyalty. They maintain a mutually beneficial relationship with even a few third generation contractors today.

While many companies choose to specialise in one or two industry sectors, Pluim has strategically opted to remain diverse in their commercial offering. From public works to educational facilities and hospitals, to bulk retail and clubs, Pluim has never been limited by project experience. They thrive on a challenge and always find not only a way to achieve a successful outcome, but the best way. “Being diverse in what we do, we find one sector improves our delivery in another,” said Scott, adding that when others say something can’t be done, their focus is always, “lets work through the challenges and see how we can”.

Challenges to growth over the years have simultaneously served them well. “We’ve tried to make it (growth) fairly steady, around 10% a year. I only ever want to take on a project if I know we can provide great service.

If we take on a project just for the sake of expanding, we have missed all our values.

That would keep me up at night,” said Scott.

Communication has been another challenge

Vicki Perich, Lark and Scott Allen and Murray Slatter as they have expanded with Scott admitting that, as a big picture thinker, he has had to learn how best to unpack the nuances of a project with every team member rather than assuming everyone knows.

With a wonderful long-term team, some key additions in recent years have been Murray Slater, Pluim’s General Manager, and Scott’s wife, Lark, the group’s systems manager, who he says has refined the company’s internal systems and processes and in so doing, brought a lot of strengths out of the business. Murray came on board just over a year ago. Scott said, “He’s done a great job of articulating who we are and clearly defining our pipelines.” Despite adding an additional layer to what had previously been a flat management structure, Scott’s door is always open to the team and he remains the principle point of contact for clients.

As for the future, Scott said they are planning to actively target the growing local aged care sector as well as big data markets.

They are also moving into establishing more long-term maintenance agreements with existing clients (98% of their work is repeat business) to provide a full building lifecycle solution while ensuring that work with their existing clients’ core (5 to 10 million dollar) and complex ($20m plus) projects continues to get their service delivery focus. As far as his own succession plan goes, Scott, who has two young daughters, said, “Ask me again in ten years”. In the meantime, his energy and enthusiasm grow stronger year by year. “I love the challenge of a technical construction delivery. And more than that I love the people. There’s nothing more fun than working through a challenge with the team for our client’s benefit.”

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EDITORIAL

Edgar Adams discusses local issues

Tough start to year but ITS BEEN A tough start to the year. It started with fires that threatened the Central Coast but in the end we dodged a bullet as they were stopped before they did any real damage. Then it was the storm that caused havoc and resulted in extensive damaging flooding around Tuggerah Lake.

Its times like these that the community looks to leadership for guidance that sees it through the hard times and at a local level that would be the Mayor. Mayors have a special place in the community because they do have powers to get things done and to give people the confidence to get through those difficult times.

But here on the Central Coast we have a Mayor who had no idea what to do except post a ridiculous Facebook rant about her own predicament.

Meanwhile it took the local community to take things into their own hands and open the lake and let the water out. One resident bought in his own digger and for his trouble got arrested. How crazy is that?

Following all this, Council’s meeting of the 24th February was a disgrace with calls for the Mayor to resign and because of the crowded and, understandably, cranky public gallery in the Wyong Council Chambers, Councillors took fright and decided that all future council meetings would be held in Wyong!! Gosford is too dangerous.

What this proves beyond all doubt is that

this Council is a Wyong Council. These councillors do not have the intelligence to understand that while they were elected to represent a particular Ward, in the end they are required to administer the whole Central Coast LGA. Here we have 15 councilors and most just want to play political games.

September 2020 can’t come quick enough!

Meanwhile, it is not all bad news at Council. The staff are doing what they can to get things done.

Council’s CEO has put together an economic development unit which has been named Innovation and Futures. The Executive Manager is Ricardo Martello, a very forward-thinking person who had a similar position at Logan City Council.

Another person who is certainly a visionary and has runs on the board is Peter Auhl who is Chief Information Officer. He joined Council at the start of 2019 after five years as CIO at Adelaide City Council Australia’s first 10Gigabit City that has turned Adelaide around (see story Page 8). He wants to do the same thing here on the Central Coast.

Right now there is a lot of interest in the Central Coast from all manner of businesses medium and large. These people can see the opportunities and are keen to invest.

Meanwhile, the Central Coast has a very solid food manufacturing industry anchored by companies like Mars Food, Sanitarium, Cordina, Life Health Foods and Agrana.

Food manufacturing in 2018/19 was worth $1.25 billion to the Central Coast, it leaves all other sectors for dead.

Last month the CEOs of these companies got together to discuss potential collaboration opportunities that would benefit the industry overall.

This is a great initiative by Central Coast Industry Connect group This bodes well for the future of our region. Read about it on Page 11.

Finally, the State Government has pulled the rug out from under Central Coast Council’s feet when it comes to getting Development Applications through.

From now on if you have a DA worth over $3 million you can go straight to the Central Coast Planning Panel in Sydney. At the same time any DA that gets more than 10 objections will go to the Panel Edgar Adams Editor

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BUSINESS NEWS

Council addressing Coast commuter crisis ALMOST 50 YEARS ago a public school headmaster, frustrated with parents’ unwillingness to help in school affairs, called the Central Coast “a dormitory suburb of Sydney”.

He was referring to the region’s commuter population and the devastating effect commuting was having on their lives.

That was the early 70’s and most of the commuter population was in the southern Central Coast. However, by the 90’s that was rapidly changing and northern areas around Warnervale were booming as Sydney residents sought a “lifestyle” change driven by lower housing costs.

The region’s population growth was booming and absolutely nothing was being done by the former Gosford Council to create new jobs leaving it to Wyong Council to carry the job creation burden.

This saw companies like Sanitarium Health Foods, Mars Food, Krone, Donaldson and many others to locate in Tuggerah, Berkeley Vale and North Wyong.

The mismatch of population growth and lack of job creating industries has resulted in more and more Central Coast residents having to seek work outside the region to the point where today some 44,200 people or a massive 25% of the region’s workforce commute away each day.

The result of this is the gradual destruction of the social fabric of our community.

A recent report on the social impact of commuting, commissioned by Central Coast Council, by research group Urbis con-

firms the disturbing fact commuters: • spend up to five hours a day getting to and from work, • family breakdown in the region is among the highest in Australia with 9,500 couples experiencing relationship stress with the risk of divorce increasing by 40%, • overall commuters suffer increased levels of fatigue, stress and wellbeing issues.

Environmental impact While the social impact of commuting has a human face to it commuting has a substantial negative impact as well Currently, of the 44,200 people who commute 66% travel by car using 250,000 litres of fuel each day Estimates of the cost to the environment show that over a twelve month period 234,000 metric tons of C02 are released into the air which is equal to burning over 53,000 tons of coal.

Economic impact The economic impact of 44,200 people spending their income outside the region is difficult to assess but we do know that if those people $10 per day on coffee and lunch the daily loss to the Central Coast is around $400,000.

It is known that half of these commuters earn above $104,000 per annum putting them in the higher income bracket and indicating that these are talented people who would be an asset to any local company.

The lifestyle myth In every survey that has ever been undertaken as to what and why Central Coast residents like about the region the word “lifestyle” comes out every time.

For those who live, work and play on the Central Coast “lifestyle” has real meaning.

These people spend at the most one hour per day getting to and from work.

They actively participate in sport and recreation and are closely involved in their family life.

For commuters “lifestyle” is a mirage.

They move to the Central Coast looking for a better life founded, usually, on lower cost housing.

They then find that employment is almost impossible to find and in most cases wages are much lower than in the city.

They are trapped in a work-travel-sleep cycle that prevents them having the “lifestyle” they came to the region for.

Youth unemployment An even more worrying statistic is that of youth unemployment with the Brotherhood of St Laurence reporting that 18.6% of Central Coast people aged 15-24 were unemployed in 2018.

At no time in the last 50 years has anyone done anything about this shocking statistic except to pay lip service to the issue.

Change is afoot In July 18, 2018 Central Coast Council appointed Gary Murphy as CEO. CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

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BUSINESS NEWS

#100GB4CC the future to a sustainable lifestyle on the Central Coast Today companies like Boeing, NEXION Networks, Technicolor, Australian Fashion Labels, Keystone Capital, BHP and Capital United have moved into the Adelaide CBD simply because Adelaide can provide this revolutionary, reliable, low cost, ultra-fast connectivity that creates economic and collaboration bridges to the world.

In an interview with Mr Auhl early last year he told CCBR, “Part of the problem with the internet is it is an unmanaged environment.

The congestion on the internet was causing problems for companies that were trying to do extremely advanced activities, like advanced manufacturing or movie production and medical technology transactions.

Using the internet was just no longer reliable.”

He strongly believes that digital and rich connectivity through a city is the cornerstone of economic development, and the 10 Gigabit Adelaide Project was conceived to take as much traffic as possible off the internet, and onto private fibre connections.

This is now Council’s plan for Gosford and the Central Coast.

This is just one of the solutions that the Central Coast Council is working on to lessen the number of “Coasties” having to commute. For big corporates to find the Central Coast a viable and suitable alternative to head officer, super-fast, Ultra-reliable and uncontended networks back to head office are required. The experience for the teams working from the Coast has to mirror that in head office.

IT WILL BE revolutionary but the Economic Development team at Central Coast Council, supported by Council’s Chief Information Officer, Peter Auhl, have plans to put Gosford and the Central Coast on the global map with ultra-fast and affordable Mutli-Gigabit connectivity that will drive business to locate to Gosford and the broader Central Coast.

With speeds up to 100 gigabits per second, this infrastructure initiative will work in conjunction with the commuter strategy reducing the region’s carbon footprint, increase economic activity and create the opportunity to increase the health and wellbeing of the Central Coast community.

Having identified that around 50% of the region’s 44,200 commuters earn above $104,000 per annum, could work from anywhere and are employed in the knowledge sector Council has also identified that ultrafast connectivity will attract Sydney business’s to establish a local presence and allow some of their commuting staff to work locally.

Ultra-fast connectivity is beyond visionary because Council has been working on this since Peter Auhl, the man who created Australia’s first 10Gigabit City in Adelaide, was appointed in late 2018.

For his work in Adelaide Mr Auhl was awarded WHICH-50’s Digital Innovator of the Year award.

Step back five years and Adelaide was in economic decline as industry after industry left South Australia and office vacancies were everywhere.

Because of this and advances in telecommunication technology, the Central Coast will be able to offer up to 100 gigabits per second services to major sites across the coast.

Companies that will take advantage of this include: • Large corporates that have many employees located on the coast, • Specialised companies wanting to provide alternatives for their employees to achieve work life balance.

• Organisations who are well placed to take advantage of activity-based working and workplace flexibility, • Those companies who are seeking to assist with reducing their secondary carbon footprint.

Council addressing Coast commuter crisis CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7

Within a month he had identified commuting and youth unemployment as the two most significant issues he faced.

He told the Gosford Erina Chamber of Commerce that both were issues he saw as uppermost for Council to address.

Since then he has assembled the first Economic Development Department, with enthusiastic, competent people aimed at promoting economic activity and creating real jobs that will get commuters off the road and train and reduce the youth unemployment epidemic.

Stay in touch in 2020

SUBSCRIBE NOW! CCBR is here to help you keep in touch with the news and issues that directly affect your business on the Central Coast. For 30 years Central Coast business owners have relied on CCBR to keep them in touch with news and issues that impacts their businesses.

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THE CENTRAL COAST E U LT I M AT E G U I D TO BUSINESS

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INCORPORATING THE CENTRAL COAST ULTIMATE GUIDE TO BUSINESS

Contents

on The Ultimate Guide to Business produced the Central Coast has been owners to as a resource for business better assist them in understanding the region. and doing business within It contains:

• Business Centres on Business Background information Centres across the region • Retail Centres on Retail Background information Centres across the region

• Industrial Areas of Industrial Background information Areas across the region • Demographic information Age Population by Suburb, and Profiles, Personal Income Housing Affordability, Education Qualifications, Workforce employment by industry Number of Registered Businesses

by Industry

• CONTACTS – • Local Government Contacts Gosford and Wyong Councils, of • State Government Members Parliament, Members • Federal Government of Parliament, • Other government contacts: • Industry Associations • Chambers of Commerce • MANUFACTURERS CAPABILITY DIRECTORY local A comprehensive list of produce Manufacturers, what they or their capability, • BUSINESS SERVICES DIRECTORY

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CENTRAL COAST

Contents

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The Ultimate Guide to Business on the Central Coast has been produced as a resource for business owners to better assist them in understanding and doing business within the region.

It contains: • Business Centres Background information on Business Centres across the region • Retail Centres Background information on Retail Centres across the region • Industrial Areas Background information of Industrial Areas across the region • Demographic information Population by Suburb, Age Profiles, Personal Income and Housing Affordability, Education Qualifications, Workforce employment by industry Number of Registered Businesses

by Industry

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BUSINESS NEWS

Council takes space at Nexus CENTRAL COAST COUNCIL has leased space at the Nexus Business Hub in Wyong to accommodate their IT and Business Development staff.

Negotiations for the lease of the vacant top floor of Nexus took place in late 2019 with Council moving in during January. It is understood that about 100 staff will be based at Nexus.

Commenting on the move Henry Kendall Group Managing Director Damien Wilde said, “both Council staff and Nexus members will benefit from shared learnings at the Campus. Council staff can attend planned events (formal and informal) that are attended by Nexus members that will assist in fostering collaboration between Council staff and Nexus members.”

“Nexus offers modern, inspiring and productive workspace specifically configured for Council’s requirements along with exposure to the diverse range of SME’s, teleworkers, freelancers that make up the Nexus membership base,” said Mr Wilde.

Additionally, Nexus provides ample parking, easy access to ultra-high speed fibre, easy access to a range of onsite services at the broader Golflinks Commercial Campus including gym, childcare, medical centre etc.

Owned by the Henry Kendall Group, Nexus is comprised in the Golflinks Commercial Campus and is the only Gigabyte Business Park on the Central Coast with an onsite Data Centre operated by Servers Australia Significantly Nexus is not connected to the NBN, it offers corporate grade 1GB inter-

Nexus Business Hub at Wyong

Central Coast Council’s workspace at Nexus installed by Evoke Projects net connection which has a 1:1 contention ratio which means that Nexus users are not sharing bandwidth with other customers.

Multi-homed and Multi-pathed fully redundant fibre network with 10GB connections already live within the business park. Their multi pathed, multi homed fibre network provides full redundancy with 10GB connections live within the business park.

Evoke Projects were commissioned by Henry Kendall Group to carry out the fit-out

with them working closely with the tenant to set a new standard in the tenant’s work environment ethos.

The scope of works included: concept design, design development, project and construction management.

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M A N U FAC T U R I N G N E W S

Chamberlain to lift output following Atlanta USA Expo

Phoenix Packaging expands at Somersby

David McPherson, Marc Roberts and Josh Searle

Chamberlain Group’s Graeme Sheekey at the Chore-Time stand displaying their Grifco Poultry Winch CHAMBERLAIN GROUP IS expecting output of their Grifco Poultry Winch, which is made at their West Gosford factory, to increase by 12% and generate $2.5 million worth of sales following their attendance at the IPPE (International Production and Processing Expo) in Atlanta in January.

The IPPE is the world’s largest expo for the Poultry Industry with 25,000 people from around the world visiting.

The Grifco Poultry Winch is the leading poultry winch in the Australian market and was showcased at the IPPE by partnering with the largest supplier of poultry equipment in the USA which has a global footprint.

Commenting on their success at the Expo Chamberlain Group’s Head of Operations – Oceania, Graeme Sheekey,

said, “Our plan is to supply Australian made winches to Chore-Time who will distribute throughout USA, Canada and Mexico in 2020 and potentially in Asia down the track.”

Chore-Time is one of the world’s largest providers of poultry and egg production systems and the Grifco poultry feeder and drinker winch, which is designed for Australian conditions, are recognised throughout the Australian poultry industry as the benchmark for workmanship and reliability.

Mr Sheekey said that the company has two other projects on the go that will see them export to USA and Middle East. “If all three projects are executed as planned we will increase the output of our Gosford facility by 38%,” he said.

The Central Coast’s only manufacturer of cardboard cartons and packaging solutions have moved into a 2,500 sqm warehouse at Somersby, substantially increasing their manufacturing, design and logistics capacity. Phoenix was set up in 2016 by Marc Roberts, David McPherson and Josh Searle who had worked together in a similar business which was forced to close.

Phoenix has a mission to offer something the large companies don’t - applying their experience in working with businesses of any size to solve packaging issues to genuinely improve their business.

One of their strengths is a full design service to help their customers create product specific packaging from prototype design and material testing to the final product, produced on site and even with instant full digital colour printing direct to cardboard, a unique offering indeed, meaning there are no expensive print plates required. Phoenix is the only company that has the capability to offer short run along with large volume production that ensures they can meet a large existing customer’s needs while still being able to support a startup business and supporting them as they grow.

A good example of this is Phoenix’s success in servicing the boutique brewery industry where they cover fledgling brewers through to the largest distillers with print capabilities including: Flexographic, lithographic, Inkjet and digital printing with small or no minimum orders. They even received acclaim last year for designing an innovative, more sustainable packaging solution for the beer industry, which was a first in the market.

Commenting on their success Phoenix Director Marc Roberts said, “We are excited to continue to serve the needs of small to medium sized businesses, or businesses who want unique solutions for their packaging. We have had great success working with clients to safely ship glass panels, bronze plaques, lighting, canvas prints and the list goes on. I have just designed a ‘Carton’ to ship 2400 x 1200 Glass Blackboards in without any breakages, so there really isn’t any limitations. We are investing in new production machinery to increase the output and reduce delivery times of cartons. This will further assist our customers in minimizing their stock holding, with shorter replenishment lead-times and smaller purchase quantities’.

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M A N U FAC T U R I N G N E W S

Good roll-up to Central Coast Food Alliance ‘Building Networks’ event The Central Coast Food Alliance held the first of its food industry ‘Building Networks’ event for 2020 in mid-February with over fifty food industry participants attending.

The Alliance operates under the auspices of Central Coast Industry Connect with Executive Officer Frank Sammut commenting, “Just as Industry Connect is built on a foundation of collaboration, and strong networks, the ‘Building Networks’ event series for the Food Alliance allows food industry peers to build important relationships, expand knowledge, and develop opportunities.”

The event is exclusively for business from the agriculture, food, beverage manufacturing and processing, and hospitality sectors including food support services.

Alliance Chairman Peter Crane, Mars Food R&D Director, in welcoming the group reported on progress since the inception of the Alliance in 2018, and more importantly, the type of support and opportunity the Alliance offers business and the sector at large.

A video presentation that the Alliance had made featuring Oz Tukka, producer of Australian native spices and oil products based at Redhead in Lake Macquarie was screened for the participants. Linda Dipper and Ray Kochel discovered bush foods 18 years ago and ended up buying the Oz Tukka business. In 2018 they were invited to attend the Fine Food Australia exhibition in Melbourne as part of the Flavours of NSW stand.

“It is important that we tell the story of food. There are some amazing companies in the sector producing fantastic products, and it’s important that we highlight the talent in the sector, not to mention diverse range of career opportunities available” said Alliance General Manager, Dan Farmer.

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A first for the Coast’s food industry John Lo Piccolo – General Manager, Agrana Fruit Australia Pty Ltd, Louise Cordina – CEO, Cordina Group, Margie Haseline, Director CC Industry Connect (CCIC), Frank Sammut – Executive Officer, CCIC, Todd Saunders – General Manager Australia and New Zealand, Sanitarium The Health Food Company, Bill Heague – General Manager, Mars Food Australia, Wayne Dicks – CFO TrendPac (standing in for Steven Hyde Managing Director TrendPac and Chairman CCIC), Peter Crane – Chairman, Central Coast Food Alliance and Dean Epps – General Manager, Life Health Foods.

CEO’s of the region’s largest food manufacturers met last month to discuss potential collaborations that would benefit both the industry and the region. The CEO’s forum was hosted by Sanitarium at their head office at Berkeley Vale.

Commenting on the meeting, Frank Sammut, Executive Officer of Central Coast Industry Connect (CCIC) said. “I have worked in the food sector for over 30 years, and I believe that this is a first for our region to have all the CEO’s of our largest food companies come together to lead the charge for stronger collaboration throughout the sector. This sort of thing doesn’t happen readily and I am excited to see where it leads” he said The Central Coast Food Alliance (CCFA) has created a great foundation off the back of a strong 2019 and saw an opportunity to continue this momentum into 2020 by initiating this industry CEO forum. “Whilst the larger portion and backbone of the food industry is small business, it is important to recognise that the region has some of the country’s largest food manufacturer’s head offices located here, and it is vital to have their commitment and collaboration

to see continued growth as a sector “said Dan Farmer, General Manager of the Central Coast Food Alliance.

The event was conducted over breakfast and through a round of introductions the desire for collaboration was apparent.

Companies represented were Sanitarium, Cordina Group, Mars Food Australia, Agrana Fruit Australia, Life Health Foods and TrendPac. Business and operational challenges were discussed openly with many areas of opportunity quickly identified.

The role for CCFA will be in facilitating collaboration and delivering programs of change, something that was well received by the forum. “Being that this was a first for the local sector, we wanted this meeting to be all about the industry leaders to get to know each other and build trust. I was really impressed to see such strong commitment from the CEO participants to future forums such as this, and it was very clear that they valued the connection, the thought leadership, and the enhanced opportunity to make a difference” said Peter Crane, Chair of the Central Coast Food Alliance.

The next meeting will be held in April.

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BUSINESS BRIEFS

Michael D’Silva appointed to Gosford Race Club Board

Since retiring he has focused on his love for thoroughbred racing as well as supporting a number of charity organisations including the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

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Tim Eaton joins Central Coast Realty

New transcription service

Mike D’Silva Director, Life Member and former ViceChairman of the Gosford Race Club, Jim MacFadyen announced his retirement from the Board in late February.

Consequently, the Board has exercised its power under the Club’s constitution to appoint respected local businessman and race enthusiast, Michael D’Silva.

Chairman, Michael Cusick said, “The board is extremely sad to see Jim retire from his long-standing position on the Gosford Race Club board. Jim is very well connected on the Coast and his tremendous contribution for over a decade will be greatly missed.

However the Club is extremely fortunate to have a man with the exceptional experience of Mike D’Silva available to take his place. Mike joins us with significant connections within the local region as well as a strong understanding of corporate and financial governance which will aid in achieving the Club’s strategic goals.”

Mr D’Silva’s career spans forty-seven years with Westpac Banking Corporation. He has held senior positions in London and the US, as well as that of Managing Director of Westpac Institutional Bank in Australia.

Nicole Quinn Nicole Quinn has established Qwerty Transcription Services providing large scale transcription services for all business types and professions.

With over 20 years’ experience transcribing within the legal industry Ms Quinn began offering virtual office administration assistance and transcription services from her home office on a part-time basis, whilst working full time in her role as a paralegal. As her reputation for providing quality transcripts grew, along with the volume of work, so did her vision to start up Qwerty Transcription Services.

A Central Coast business Ms Quinn’s vision for Qwerty Transcription Services is to become one of Australia’s most reputable, reliable and professional transcription services, providing quality and accurate transcripts, whilst also ensuring a secure and confidential service for all of its customers.

Qwerty Transcription Services caters for all types of businesses and professions, including legal dictation outsourcing, investigations firms, finance, medico-legal,

Stuart Gan and Tim Eaton Tim Eaton, one of the Central Coast’s best known real estate agents specialising in the high end property market has joined Umina based agents Central Coast Realty as Group Sales Manager.

Mr Eaton started his career twenty years ago with Central Coast Prestige Properties, the first agency to specialise in prestige properties founded by Peter Elliott and Ken Wilson.

Over the period he has worked with three of the Central Coast’s leading agencies.

Central Coast Realty was established by Stuart Gan in 2018 with their sales office opening at 279 West Street, Umina.

Alan’s Quality Meats takes a spot in Fountain Plaza Precinct Erina

Alan Forrest and Leon Cooney

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Alan Forrest, who trades as Alan’s Quality Meats, has moved into premises in the Platinum Precinct adjacent to Fountain Plaza in Erina.

Since moving from Kellyville to the Central Coast over twenty years ago Mr Forest, with Leon Cooney who has worked for him for almost 30 years, has established a customer base across the Coast based on their policy of sourcing only grass-fed beef and lamb from Victoria.

His first shop was at Green Point and from there they set up in the new Lisarow Shopping Centre where they operated for some fifteen years relocating to West Gosford Shopping Centre in 2018, the last two moves being necessitated by unreasonable demands of the landlords.

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BUSINESS BRIEFS

While numerous butchers have gone out of the industry over the past twenty years Alan Forrest is proof that with quality meat and good service customers will follow.

Barber & Coffee at Wyong

Surf Life Saving Central Coast appoints CEO

Jon Harkness Surf Life Saving Central Coast has announced the appointment of Jon Harkness as CEO. Mr Harkness joins the organisation after a long career in banking, most recently with Newcastle Permanent Building Society for thirteen years where his last position was Head of Business Banking.

He holds a Masters of Business Administration and has plans to sustain and grow the Surf Life Saving presence on the Coast keeping our locals and visitors safe at our beaches.

He has been heavily involved in the Surf Life Saving movement for nearly 20 years as an active member at Shelly Beach Surf Club. He succeeds Narelle Duggan who has moved to a new role in Surf Life Saving NSW in Surf Sports.

Danny Banford with Barista Alex Balestri at Heart & Minds Barber Emporium in Wyong Hearts and Minds Barber Emporium operated in Toukley by Danny and Laura Banford since 2017 has opened a second Hearts & Minds business on the corner of Church Street and Pacific Highway, Wyong in what was once the Jolly Pelican fish shop.

A former Royal Marine Commando Mr Banford turned to barbering, attending the Gents of London Barber Academy when he left the army in 2015 while Mrs Banford had her own salon in Ireland. After moving to Australia they took over the business of barber Dave Daniel in Toukley Mall in early 2017 with a plan to revolutionise the barber shop.

Subsequently after eight months they took over a new larger space in Toukley with

seven chairs and introducing a coffee bar.

The iconic Wyong property was acquired by local builder and property developer Matthew Lusted in late 2019 which he is now renovating.

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BUSINESS NEWS

The Grove Studios - A Central Coast music studio leading the industry

The first group of students from The Grove Studios Academy who have graduated with a Diploma of Music Industry (Sound Production) as well as the commencement of the Advanced Diploma.

ONE OF AUSTRALIA’S most iconic music studios, The Grove Studios, at Somersby is at the forefront of the Australian Music Industry, hosting some of the country’s most successful, modern musical acts.

At the same time The Grove Studios Academy has continued to be at the cutting edge of Tertiary Education on the Central Coast, celebrating the graduation of the first group of students through The Diploma of Music Industry (Sound Production) as well as the commencement of the Advanced Diploma.

The Grove Studios is an iconic piece of Australian Music history which in an everchanging industry has continued to lead the music industry throughout the years and will continue for years to come.

Recently, The Grove Studios had two huge album releases from Brisbane rock group Dune Rats and Sydney rapper, ChillinIT, which both debuted in the Aria Charts at number one and two respectfully. “Hurry Up and Wait� is Dune Rats’ third album and was recorded at The Grove Studios with producers Mitch Kenny and Violent Soho’s, James Tidwell, and is currently number 1 on the Aria album charts.

Recently, the iconic recording facility has also played home to Brisbane rock legends Violent Soho who wrote and recorded their forthcoming album, “Everything is A-Ok�, over an extended period at The Grove Studios with producer Greg Wales.

For more information, visit, www.thegrovestudios.com or www.thegrovestudiosacademy.com

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Tuggerah Lake flooding disaster mostly avoidable Central Coast Councillors knew that Tuggerah Lake was a disaster waiting to happen by deliberately closing their eyes and ears except to play party politics.

The flooding right across low lying areas around the lake had to happen given that the lake hasn’t been dredged nor has the entrance been opened up sufficiently to clear flood waters that would occur sooner or later.

These people need to be held accountable.

It took over a 100 residents to take the law into their own hands and try to dig a channel to let the water out. One resident who lost his home in the flooding at Chittaway bought in his digger to help and was arrested by police!! “Exposing hundreds of homes to flooding is simply not good enough,� Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch said. “There has been no dredging since November 2018 because last time Council tried to dredge the channel, they polluted the nearby beach with black sand. “Doing nothing and ignoring the silted up channel is simply not an option for the thousands of residents who live nearby Tuggerah Lake. $600,000 to dredge The Entrance Channel Meanwhile on Friday 14th Mr Crouch announced that the NSW Government is providing $600,000 for dredging at The Entrance channel.

This funding is required to be matched dollar-for-dollar by Council, allowing for a $1.2 million project. The NSW Government is still awaiting confirmation that Council will commit to this.

The project will see around 60,000 cubic metres of sand dredged from The Entrance channel and placed on nearby beaches.

Today I am renewing my calls for Council to develop and implement a long-term management plan for this local waterway.

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CEN T R AL COA S T COUNCIL NE WS

Central Coast Councillors dump Gosford Council’s 24th February meeting was a farce. From calls for the Mayor’s resignation to all future Council meetings to be held in Wyong.

It started with a Media Release on the previous Friday advising that due to limited public gallery capacity at Council Meeting Chambers and to ensure the safety of the community, attendees wishing to participate in the Public Forum and the Council Meeting will be required to sign-in in person on the day of the meeting. Registration will be open from 4pm at the scheduled Council Meeting location.

The public gallery space will be closed once capacity is reached. Measures to assist in managing meetings will become more stringent if safety concerns continue.

For the first time ever on the Central Coast this council employed SEVEN security guards to protect our precious Counclilors from the public.

Council meetings will now be held at Wyong only from now on showing that this Council is in fact a Wyong Council and was since this bunch of councillors were elected. The Labor / Green councillors who control council have much to answer for.

Following a Facebook rant by the Mayor during the storm of the previous week Council will ask the Minister for Local Government to look at the model code of conduct in relation to adverse social media

use and the deliberate distribution of misinformation by councillors both inside and outside the chamber.

This Council is a disgrace but more to the point this Council is an embarrassment to everybody who lives on the Central Coast.

The shenanigans that have been going on for the past two and half years are well noted in Macquarie Street, Canberra and across the whole public service.

The medium and long term effect on the region’s economy will be significant.

Heated debate over what to do about The Entrance Channel In a fiery two hour debate Central Coast Council has killed off any chance of a breakwall at The Entrance Channel when it voted against the idea put up by three councillors who tried to get money into the budget to develop a breakwall design and a major dredging program.

Amid loud angry interjections from a crowded public gallery, Council instead decided on a weaker version of the Motion.

About 50 residents from The Entrance were loud and angry as they sat in the public gallery at Gosford Council Chambers watching councillors debate the issue for about two hours, after two women spoke of the impact of the floods at the public forum before the meeting.

Cr McLachlan said he was disappointed that his motion was not adopted. “Council now has a whole department on Futures and Innovation. “It would not cost any more to have research into the latest global options,” he said.

Meanwhile angry residents around Tuggerah Lake are calling for the resignation of Mayor Lisa Matthews.

Local Government Elections are in September 2020. The Central Coast has a further six months of purgatory putting up with this Council.

Mardi to Warnervale Pipeline construction to start in March Central Coast Council will shortly commence construction of one of the region’s most significant infrastructure projects - the Mardi to Warnervale Pipeline.

The pipeline will boost water supply to the Central Coast’s rapidly growing northern suburbs, improve water security for the entire region and represents the next major step to enhance the Central Coast’s water supply network.

According to Mayor Lisa Matthews the 9km pipeline will deliver significant benefits to the Central Coast community.

“The Coast’s population is on the rise, especially in our northern areas and this pipeline will ensure these areas have a safe and secure water supply into the future,” Mayor Matthews said.

“The pipeline will also enhance the water transfer capability between Central Coast Council and Hunter Water, which further improves water security for the two regions and meets our commitment under the Hunter-Central Coast Pipeline Agreement.”

Council’s Director Water and Sewer, Jamie Loader said he was excited about the project kicking off in March after an extensive period of planning, design and community consultation.

“The pipeline route will pass through several different environments including rural land holdings, the outer edge of the residential area of Watanobbi, and along the fringes of the environmentally sensitive Council lands of Porters Creek Wetland,” he said.

Service CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW MARCH 2020

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PROPERT Y

COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY FOR SALE/LEASE

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

PROPERTY OF THE MONTH

WYOMING – LARGE RETAIL TENANCY IN 5 WAYS CENTRE

HARDYS BAY - RESTAURANT, WEDDING, EVENT VENUE

Approx. 191m2 incl mezzanine. Access at front & rear, ideal for deliveries or pickups. 2 assigned car parks, kitchen, toilet, air-con, on-site customer parking. Retail centre of 18 shops & low strata levies.

FOR SALE EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

CHARMHAVEN - THE FAIRMILE. BETTER-QUALITY High-quality factory/warehouse units with access, high and wide roller doors, natural light, parking & full concrete precast construction. Some units have DA approved mezzanines.

FOR SALE FROM $371,000 + GST / FOR LEASE - $22,400 NET PA + GST

GOSFORD – AFFORDABLE OFFICE READY FOR OCCUPATION

FOR LEASE

Affordable 52 sqm office located in a 3 storey building with lift access, male & female amenities on each floor.

NBN ready. Wide appeal to a range of owner occupiers & investors.

FOR SALE $156,000 + GST (If Applicable)

WEST GOSFORD - WAREHOUSE/ SHOWROOM/ OFFICES Hardys Bay Club. Restaurant is currently operating for 200. Outdoor dining areas. Liquor licence, Bottle shop could be implemented (STCA). TAB & Keno operating. Adjacent to Hardys Bay Beach.

FOR SALE - CONTACT AGENT

WARNERVALE – 6 INDUSTRIAL UNITS AVAILABLE 6 new units at the Warnervale interchange, approx.

158-192m2. All units have DA approval mezzanine levels.

FOR SALE FROM $410,000 + GST

CHARMHAVEN - INVEST OR OWNER OCCUPY Take your pick, currently tenanted & showing 5% or better net return OR vacant possession. Approx. 135m2 warehouse & approx. 30m2 of air conditioned mezz/ office. Each unit has 2 covered car parks.

FOR SALE $430,000 + GST (If Applicable)

WYONG – DON’T MISS OUT - INDUSTRIAL UNIT Large 234m2 unit with 5 allocated car spaces. Vehicle access in & out of the complex is excellent. Zoned IN1, it is suitable for most light industrial businesses.

FOR SALE $450,000 + GST

SOMERSBY - NEW TO THE MARKET!

Excellent high clearance warehouse in a great complex, total area approx. 424m2. Nice reception/ showroom under the 44m2 mezzanine office space.

Secure complex with 5 car space on-site.

FOR SALE $795,000 + GST

TUGGERAH – PROSPERITY!

One of the final opportunities to secure a piece of the Coast’s Premiere Business Park in Tuggerah. Select preferred unit from a range of thoughtfully designed industrial premises.

FOR SALE FROM $403,200 + GST / FOR LEASE - $53,000 NET PA + GST

Visit our website for additional properties and more information centralcoast.ljhcommercial.com.au

Warehouse approx. 694m2 incl mezzanine for extra storage, showroom with air con, reception area, 3 separate offices, bathroom, kitchen. Also, a Large roller door, 3 phase power & 4 on-site car parks.

FOR LEASE $76,400 NET PA + GST

WYONG - EXCITING, OPPORTUNITY

UNIQUE

OFFICE

Centre of Wyong’s CBD surrounded by quality government tenants. Offering a 25 car-park facility + motorcycle/bicycle parking. This enables your staff & clientele to move in/out with ease & security.

FOR LEASE EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

WEST GOSFORD - LARGE FREESTANDING WAREHOUSE Approx. 1,185m2 incl office area with air con. There are 4 roller doors, ideal location with good truck access.

Yard space & parking at the front & side + additional yard space at the rear.

FOR LEASE $98,500 NET PA + GST

Suite 401 / 1 Bryant Drive, Tuggerah NSW 2259 87 Mann Street, Gosford NSW 2250

Phone 4353 7700

HUGE EXPOSURE FOR LEASE Suite 3, 36-40 Victoria Street East Gosford

FOR SALE $2.25m

FOR SALE From $275,000 + GST

Freehold Industrial complex with 8 units!

11 Sold, 9 left! Hurry before they're all gone!

• • • •

• • • •

5 Apprentice Dr, Berkeley Vale

Multiple tenants in place New roof over whole building Significant building upgrades Strata title subdivision approved

Ben Purdue 0450 719 600

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12 Reliance Drive, Tuggerah

20 unit industrial strata complex Sizes ranging from 89m² - 310m² approx.

Late 2020 completion Proposed Cafe on site

Ben Purdue 0450 719 600

Local Knowledge & National Strength

High proole, ground oor, corner position.

Located at main intersection on Central Coast Highway.

Customer car park on site.

1x undercover reserved space for tenant.

122 sqm internal area.

Awning signage area.

Ducted air conditioning, 3 phase power, ceiling, lighting, white walls.

Lee Woodward 0414 877 780 | 02 4323 7606 lee@vcmanagement.com.au www.vcmanagement.com.au

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PROPERT Y

11 LUCCA ROAD, WYONG AUCTION

This property is a rare opportunity to purchase a large industrial property in a tightly held industrial area, the property is approx.. 14,160sqm of land area Zoned IN1 General Industrial consisting of freestanding commercial style building that is approx.. 450sqm in size plus a further 3 other free standing buildings mainly used as storage sheds. A large amount of hardstand for parking and storage of plant equipment and at the rear this is further undeveloped land area. Overall, this property has plenty of potential and will be attractive for an owner/occupier especially an ideal site for transport companies or civil construction companies or an ideal site from a development perspective. (STCA)

SPECIALIST MEDICAL & PROFESSIONAL SUITES

TUGGERAH 154 Pacific Highway

Ideally located on the Pacific Highway within the established Tuggerah Straight Commercial Centre, these Specialist Medical & Professional Suites are perfectly situated.

Neighbours include Healthscope Medical Centre, PRP Radiology, Pathology, Sports & Spinal Physiotherapy, Chiropractor, Dentist, Psycologists & more.

With a variety of suites available and plenty of parking, opportunities include both ground floor and level 1 suites.

Tuggerah Medical & Professional Rooms range from 13m2 to 24m2 and start from as little as $1,250 per month +GST. Level 1 accessed via lift or stairs hosts suites from 59m2 with the East Wing Professional Suites ranging from 73m2 to 103m2 there is a size to suit a variety of Professionals including Medical, Financial, Legal etc...

Other tenants include BCF, Super Cheap Auto and Romi’s Café and make this an ideal location with plenty of parking.

SUITE 3.01, 107-109 MANN STREET, GOSFORD FOR LEASE $47,580 Per Annum Net + GST 183sqm top floor office in a high-profile position on the corner of Mann St and Donnison St at the gateway to Gosford. The office space is light and bright with windows bounding two side of the office.

The configuration offers a number of meeting / conference rooms, as well as open plan workspace and storage. With ducted air conditioning, carpeted floor coverings, attractive glazed entry and on-site parking, this space offers a lot. Call us today to arrange an inspection.

Features include • Flexible lease terms • Very Competitive rentals • Excellent parking • Air-conditioning • Carpets, kitchenette • Balcony access for most suites

For further details please contact Julie Davies on 4355 5111

18 ADELAIDE STREET, EAST GOSFORD AFFORDABLE STRIP SHOP

Positioned opposite the popular Elanora Hotel, offering 62sqm with air conditioning, kitchenette, amenities, rear lane access and street parking at your front door. Suitable for many retail, office or medical / consulting uses. $500.00 per week + Outgoings + GST.

FOR SALE

PRESTIGE OFFICE SPACE - ERINA

Contact: Mark Davies 0422 442 858 Daniel Mason 0403 889 530 Chris Watson 0402 430 213 Prices shown with * are inclusive of GST.

4325 0208 83 MANN STREET, GOSFORD 2250 www.chapmanfrazer.com.au

Get results!

Rare opportunity in this prime location, of securing 2 adjoining Professional Strata Office Suites.

Suite 2.09 – 85sqm and Suite 2.10 – 140sqm, totaling 225sqm in the exclusive Platinum Building at Erina, the commercial heart of the Central Coast.

Adjacent to all amenities in the Fountain Plaza complex including: post office, newsagent, banks, restaurants, childcare centre, 24-hour gym, medical services. Close to public transport and Erina Fair Shopping Centre.

ADVERTISE YOUR PROPERTY IN CCBR

Features include: Extensive natural light, part fit out, board room, meeting rooms, kitchen, fully carpeted, large outdoor breakout area and 30sqm private balcony plus 5 undercover car spaces.

To be sold with vacant possession or short-term lease back option, subject to negotiation

For further information phone 4367 0733 or email info@ccbusinessreview.com.au

Price: $1,700,000 including 5 car spaces.

S J Skipper & Associates Pty Limited 3.05 / 5 Level 3 Platinum Building 4 Ilya Avenue ERINA, NSW 2250 Mobile: 0418 257 144 Email: sskipper@skipperassociates.com

S K I P P E R

Stay in touch in 2020

SUBSCRIBE NOW! CCBR is here to help you keep in touch with the news and issues that directly affect your business on the Central Coast. For 30 years Central Coast business owners have relied on CCBR to keep them in touch with news and issues that impacts their businesses.

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THE CENTRAL COAST

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2019 YEAR BOOK

U LT I M AT E G U I D E TO BUSINESS

2 019

CENTRAL COAST

Contents

The Ultimate Guide to Business on the Central Coast has been produced as a resource for business owners to better assist them in understanding and doing business within the region.

It contains: • Business Centres Background information on Business Centres across the region

CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW MARCH 2020

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PROPERT Y NEWS

Publishing company buys Tuggerah warehouse Education publishing and distribution company, Five Senses Education has purchased a freehold industrial warehouse at 3 Bluegum Close, Tuggerah.

The property, on a 2,224 sqm lot comprises 700 sqm clear span warehouse building with air-conditioned office plus extensive hardstand area and secure fencing.

Price paid was $1.1 million (GST not applicable). Ty Blanch and Brett Dowling negotiated the sale.

West Gosford paying $510,000 (GST not applicable).

The property is currently tenanted at a rental of $32,960 per annum net resulting in a return of 6.5% per annum.

The property last traded in 2016 for $400,000 (RPData).

Karen Aubrey from LJ Hooker Commercial Central Coast negotiated the sale.

Property NSW leases Gosford office

Builder buys West Gosford unit

Investor buys in The Palms Business Park

An investor has purchased Unit 10, a 120 sqm warehouse unit with 40sqm of workshop and 65 sqm mezzanine office in The Palms Business Park at 13 Gibbens Road,

Karen Aubrey from LJ Hooker Commercial Central Coast negotiated the sale.

A builder has purchased Unit 5, 373 Manns Road, West Gosford paying $810,000 (GST not applicable).

The 358sqm unit with 82sqm mezzanine is part of a 5 unit complex facing Manns Road but with access from Carnarvon Road to the rear.

Property NSW has leased Suite 1, a 750 sqm commercial space plus 4 under cover car spaces., on the ground floor of 280 Mann Street, Gosford for use by a State Government agency.

The 2-level property is also tenanted by Employers Mutual and Zurich Insurance both of which operate call centres on the 2nd level.

Terms of lease are $215,000 per annum Gross plus GST for a term of 5 years with 5 year option.

Daniel Mason from Chapman & Frazer Commercial Real Estate negotiated the lease.

Experts to lead Central Coast Planning Panel THE CENTRAL COAST’S independent decision-making panel will be up and running by the beginning March, chaired by planning and local government expert Donna Rygate.

Making the announcement Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast Adam Crouch said Ms Rygate had been selected to chair the inaugural Central Coast Planning Panel.

“The Panel will bring greater accountability and transparency to our region’s planning system by making decisions on sensitive, complex and high-value development applications,” Mr Crouch said.

“Ms Rygate’s expertise in governance and planning, particularly her track record as Chief Executive of Local Government NSW, makes her the ideal person for the job.

“Ms Rygate also understands the needs of local communities and she is committed to integrity and proper process. Her appointment will ensure the Panel performs its work with accountability and transparency.”

The two alternate chairs will be Jason Perica and Kara Krason. Mr Perica and Ms Krason are town planning experts with a thorough understanding of local issues, having served on the Joint Regional Planning Panel and have decades of experience in the private and public sectors.

Central Coast Council will now choose the remaining panel members from a pool of 200 experts with a background in planning, architecture, heritage, the environment, urban design, economics, traffic and transport, law, engineering, tourism or government and public administration. Council must also sign-off on the appointment of the NSW Government’s recommendations for the chair and alternate chairs, and will choose the Panel’s community representative.

“Putting decision-making in the hands of the experts will allow Councillors to focus their time and energy on the core business of local government,” Mr Crouch said.

“We know that between 2016 and 2041 an extra 95,250 people will call the Central Coast home, which is why our community needs greater certainty about planning decisions.”

UDIA welcomes Planning Panel The Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) NSW has welcomed newly formed Central Coast Planning Panel.

Commenting on the announcement UDIA NSW Central Coast Chapter Chair Caine King, said, “The Central Coast Planning Panel will need a bold vision for the future of the Central Coast and the ability to put in place the right stra-

tegic planning framework for the region.”

“This Panel will ensure the growth of the Central Coast will be made on planning merit and create an independent source of truth for planning in the region,” said King.

The Central Coast is one of the critical regions the NSW Government has outlined for growth in the next five years.

The Government has announced targets of over 25,000 jobs to the region in the near future.

“Over 75 per cent of commuters in the Central Coast travel over 50kms to get to work. It is imperative to create more local opportunities and grow the economy of the region,” said King.

“The correct planning measures will help attract and keep new talent in the Central Coast, creating a burgeoning regional city where residents can live, work and play.”

The NSW Government is currently underway with a review of the Local Planning Panels, and UDIA NSW hopes to see the new Central Coast Panel informed by the best practice outcomes of this review.

“It is still early in the implementation, and we look forward to receiving further details on the rollout of the new Panel, as well as the identity of additional community and expert panel members,” said King.

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PRESTIGE PROPERTIES FOR SALE

LUXURIOUS PRIVATE ESTATE

5/217 Oak Road, Matcham

Exclusively positioned in the prestigious and private “Ferneries” estate, this meticulously designed residence offers a sleek and minimalistic floorplan with glamourous entertaining areas flowing effortlessly from indoor to outdoor, Breathtaking proportions and dramatic ceiling. Spanning over two levels it is truly unique and rare to find such rural opulence this close to the heart of Terrigal.

Grand entrance with soaring 10ft ceilings, stunning staircase, clean sharp lines • Expansive open plan living/dining and family areas with floor to ceiling glass offering picturesque views over manicured gardens and lawns • Spacious rumpus /tv theatre room and separate study create further living zones

4 Bed + study

3.5 Bath 8 Car

• Gourmet kitchen with huge island bench, • 3 Phase power, LED lighting ,solar powered blinds, 100,000litre water tank European appliances and walk in pantry • 4 bedrooms plus study, luxurious master • If you are seeking a home beyond the ordinary, this captivating property is well suite with modern ensuite and walkworth a look. Although beaches, private in robe schools and major amenities are all with• Generously sized bedrooms overlooking in a short 10-minute drive, this unique manicured rolling lawns and each with and peaceful space will have you believaccess to patio and built ins ing that you are in a world of your own • Sun-drenched northerly aspect, 2.7 manicured and usable acres backing reserve For sale by Private Treaty • Resort style salt water pool, water fall Price guide $2,500,000 - $2,750,000 and impressive poolside entertainInspect by private appointment ing area Meredith Spicer 0413 012 828 • 8 car garaging, workshop, 4.5 vehicle hoist and extensive parking • Intercom controlled security gate, huge storage facilities, ducted air conditioning, alarm

Absolute Waterfront & A Brand New Build 125b Albany Street, Point Frederick

Private setting and Walk to Beach 6 Amethyst Avenue, Pearl Beach

Nestled on the waterfront at Point Frederick is this architecturally designed, brand new home. There are beautiful water views, and the use of opaque windows has provided privacy.

The well-appointed kitchen with butler’s pantry forms part of the open plan dining and living area, that melds easily with the Alfresco living space. The pebble and glass-beaded swimming pool has internal lighting, there is a water access point and a jetty is potentially permissible (STCA). The master suite offers panoramic water views and a grand bathroom, there are multiple living spaces, and a triple-car garage with space for a workshop. This property is low maintenance with a major emphasis on easy living and lifestyle.

Located on a level block, within 200m walking distance of picturesque Pearl Beach, this single level home is ideal for those looking for a quality family residence or a suitable holiday home. The bedrooms, bathroom and laundry are located in one area of the home, whilst the living and dining areas and the kitchen are together and away from the bedrooms, making it the ideal set up for entertaining. The wellmaintained interiors are light and spacious and have been recently updated. Both block-out and timber Venetian blinds provide privacy, and there are quality fixtures and fittings throughout the home. The kitchen includes Westinghouse appliances, and both the ensuite and main bathrooms have floor to ceiling tiles and semi-frameless shower screens.

North-facing living areas and an adjoining deck opening out to the large rear garden and grassed area, provide a perfect place to relax and unwind.

Price: Contact Agent Inspect: By Appointment Agents: Stephen Gittoes, Ingrid Osborn & Trent Mullen

Price: Auction on Saturday 28th March at 10:15am Inspect: Saturdays 10:00 – 10:30am or by appointmentAgents: Paul Climpson, Stephen Gittoes & Ingrid Osborn

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PRESTIGE PROPERT Y NEWS

Capital gains at Pearl Beach

Blue Bay beachside brings $3.35 million

“The Beachouse”, a Hamptons style residence at 7 Pearl Parade, Pearl Beach has sold for $3.8 million through Tim Eaton from Central Coast Realty Umina.

The two-storey residence which comprises four bedrooms, as well as a large one bedroom self-contained guest house and a separate bunkhouse including huge rumpus room/theatre, providing five bedrooms in total sits on a 660 sqm level block overlooking the entrance to Brisbane Water and Pacific Ocean as was rebuilt in 2015.

It sold in 2018 for $3.26 million (RPData) indicating a capital gain of $540,000 in less than two years.

A Sydney family has paid $3.35 million for a elevated 4-bedroom beachside property at 52 Werrina Parade, Blue Bay and will use it for a holiday home.

The sale by Private Treaty was negotiated by Jasmin Day from Accom Property Terrigal in late 2019.

Built in 2000 it is located on a 787 sqm site and commands 270-degree views of the ocean including Toowoon Bay and Blue Bay. Its location is an exclusive tightly held pocket with only five sales over the past four years have resulted in sales from $2.2 million to $3.5 million in Warrina Parade according to RPData.

It was listed in October 2019 and sold within a month.

Interest growing for Toowoon Bay properties 2019 Prestge market strong

When a property is on the market for 28 days and sells prior to auction for a price that is the highest for a residential strata unit in the 2261 postcode there is has to be a reason.

That reason is that the Toowoon Bay and Blue Bay areas of the Central Coast are gaining in popularity at the top end of the market.

Proof of that is Unit 2 at 156 Bay Road, Toowoon Bay, a strata titled property of two x 3-bedroom residences: one with direct and exclusive beach access the other without but both having panoramic views of the ocean and Toowoon Bay sold for $2 million to a Central Coast buyer.

The same property sold in 2015 for $1.8 million (RPData).

Commenting on the sale Brent Speechley from McLachlan Partners Long Jetty said, “The previous highest sale for same area was 5/1 Hutton Rd North Entrance which Sold in 2018 for $2 million.

“Most of the enquiry did come from Sydney however the eventual buyer was a local couple that appreciated the value and beauty of Toowoon Bay Beach.”.

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BUSINESS TIPS

MIND YOUR BUSINESS

By Troy Marchant, Director, Adviceco Chartered Accountants

Pre-June Tax Review THE END OF financial year (EOFY) seems a while away yet, but for businesses, early

tax planning is an important part of managing cashflow.

The right advice will ensure that you are only paying the tax you need to, and it should be discussed and planned before the end of the financial year.

By the time it is 30 JUNE, it is usually too late.

A Business and Tax Plan, or what we less formally refer to as a Pre-June Review, is a collaboration between business managers and their finance team or accountant in the early months of the calendar year.

What does it mean for an employee to be ‘working’?

By Warwick Ryan, Partner, Hicksons Lawyers

IT SEEMS LIKE an obvious question. But surprisingly, it can catch some employers unawares.

In recent years it has it surfaced in a variety of ways and more commonly than you might expect For instance, in November last year the Federal Court considered a class action by the CFMMEU regarding circumstances where employees were required to rally at the entrance of the site and then travel by bus to the worksite 15-20 minutes inside the perimeter fencing, where they clocked on. The Fair Work Commission decided that the bus ride amounted to work, and the employees had to be paid for that time.

It came up again, just last month in relation meal times. When is person on a break and when are they working?

The decision The Fair Work Commission had to weigh up whether to approve an enterprise agreement. In the course of considering the approval of the agreement, the Fair Work Commission had to decide whether employees were working during meal times.

So, the scenario was this: the employer operated a recreational dive boat and sometimes during mealtimes, the employees would find themselves sitting and eating with passengers during 3-day trips to the outer reef.

Was this work?

The Unions argued that this amounted to the employees working. It was noted by the commissioner that whilst the employer can direct the employee to take meal breaks, rest breaks and not perform work, they are not able to direct passengers to cease engaging with the employees during this time.

The commission considered the question of whether an employee is working when they are sitting at a communal meal table being questioned by guests. It came to the view that it will depend very much on the circumstances and made these distinctive findings.

• If there is nowhere else to eat but the communal table and guests are generally around – the employee will be at work.

• If the employee is directed to eat at the communal table when guests are around - the employee will be at work.

• If employee chooses to sit there and, in the course of doing so, is engaged in conversations by guests - the employee will not be at work.

A more common example of this is very often in offices, people will eat lunch at their desk. Sometimes this is by choice.

Sometimes, because the employee knows someone must answer the phones or deal with inquiries. Sometimes, because the employer directs the employee to answer the phones or deal with inquiries.

The ramifications for employers The War on Wage theft continues. And this creates issues for employers. This question of when an employee is working will have wide ranging consequences for several industries. We consider child care providers, NDIS care providers, age care industry, should take this opportunity to review their contracts, and agreements.

What can be done Get quality legal advice where there is any doubt. The civil penalties and legal costs of defending a claim are just too much, to ignore this problem.

The process is relatively low investment and requires a step outside of the day-to-day detail to project the financial position to June. There are many simple yet sophisticated tools that help us achieve reliable data for you and your business (if applicable).

The outcome is visibility of compliance commitments ahead of time and an action plan so that you are maximising your tax deductions and only paying what you need to.

To read more about the Business and Tax Plan, visit www.adviceco.com.au/tax/

The Future of Law

By Connor James, Principal, Law Quarter As with many other professionals, lawyers are facing an interesting future with the proliferation of artificial technologies including machine learning.

How machine learning will change the way businesses operate is yet to be seen.

The key difference between machine learning and traditional software is machine learning ‘builds itself’ and improves over time. This has been described by expert commentators as the next industrial revolution. Machine learning has the potential to disrupt much of the ‘transactional’ based legal work, traditionally charged in sixminute increments.

While there is plenty of hype around these concepts, the Central Coast is once again leading the field in showing how these new technologies can be implemented and commercialised.

Based in the Platinum Building in Erina, a commercial and litigation law firm, Law Quarter has developed a system it calls Titan. Titan uses machine learning to review documentation and to draw inferences and conclusions. Whereas a lawyer will typically spend many hours reviewing a 100-page contract, Titan can do it in 15 seconds.

Titan produces a report that: a. Examines risks for businesses in entering into a proposed transaction as represented by warranties and indemnities; b. Explains how the contract can be terminated either by agreement or for breach; c. Compares the contract to 1000s of others Titan has reviewed to highlight unusual or missing clauses; and d. Provides an automated chronology of events that can be exported into excel or turned into action items with reminders via SMS or email.

Law Quarter is actively using Titan in CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

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BUSINESS FINANCE

Supply Chain Finance DOES YOUR BUSINESS reply on good, ongoing relationships with your suppliers?

Do you have to finance the gap between paying your suppliers and receiving your own customer payments? Does this gap sometimes lead to paying your suppliers late? Do your suppliers, at times, ask you for payment of their invoices before the due date?

What would happen to your business if one or more of your suppliers couldn’t provide you supply due to their financial hurdles? What would it mean to your business if you were seen in your industry as a reliable payer? Would you be able to seize growth opportunities knowing that your suppliers service you as a “preferred” customer, over your competition?

If these are a concern to your business, Supply Chain Finance could be a perfect solution.

Supply Chain Finance has been a hotly debated topic in the financial press over the past few months. Recently, the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman have released their position paper (not their final paper), with Kate Carnell commenting that “Supply Chain

The Future of Law

By Zsolt Bircsak

Finance is a legitimate tool to free-up cash flow for small and family business. We have spoken to small business that have used Supply Chain Finance to great effect to reinvest in their business and scale rapidly”.

The aim of Supply Chain Finance is to release the liquidity into supply chains and unlock businesses of all types from late or protracted payments by their clients.

The benefits of Supply Chain Finance are enjoyed by not only the suppliers to a business, but the buying business itself. These facilities are not limited to small and family businesses – large multinational businesses benefit from Supply Chain Finance, often offering their suppliers an “in house” version.

As with all financing products, it is important to find a solution that fits with your business needs and goals. Some important points to consider when searching for a suitable facility for your business include “Is this particular supply chain finance facility a loan (does it require security – does it sit on your balance sheet and impact your future borrowing capacity) or do the funds sit “off balance sheet” (unsecured – debt free finance)?”, “Are my suppliers free to elect to take payment whenever it

best suits their business, or are there set times that suppliers can take payment?”, “Can I extend my repayment terms to my financier irrespective of what my supplier choses?”, “Can I use this facility for suppliers on COD terms?”, “Can I use this facility to pay overseas suppliers?”, “Do I receive a rebate if a supplier takes early payment, and if so, how much?”, “Does the facility allow financing to occur on an invoice-by-invoice basis, or is it an “all or nothing” approach?”, “Are there any hidden fees and charges?” and “Does this facility require lock-in contracts, or is it a “use as needed” facility?”.

The right Supply Chain Finance facility can strengthen your business and your supplier’s businesses. It is a facility that turns your accounts payables into an asset - it can release cash locked up as working capital in your business, enabling you to re-invest that cash elsewhere. It is not just another financing facility utilised by businesses that need more cash – it is a better way to pay suppliers on time, every time.

For more information contact Zsolt Bircsak at Capitalise Business Finance www.capitalisebusinessfinance.com.au

tem as a “game changer, giving us an unfair advantage over any other law firm. Over the past 12 months we have been approached by many larger firms wanting to take what we have developed to either implement it or to squash it.”

Law Quarter and its sister business are working with some of the country’s largest businesses including CSR, Frasers Property Group, and various energy businesses. Yet another example of the unlimited potential of businesses based on the Central Coast.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

both its commercial work and in its litigation practice. In the context of litigation in courts, Titan can be used to quickly and efficiently review evidence such as affidavits to identify errors and to produce a chronology.

Founder, Connor James, describes the sys-

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FUNNY BUSINESS

A BUSINESSMAN WAS interviewing job applications for the position of manager of a large division.

He quickly devised a test for choosing the most suitable candidate. He simply asked each applicant this question, “What is two plus two?”

The first interviewee was a journalist.

His answer was, “Twenty-two”.

The second was a social worker. She said, “I don’t know the answer but I’m very glad that we had the opportunity to discuss it.”

The third applicant was an engineer. He pulled out a slide rule and came up with an answer “somewhere between 3.999 and 4.001.”

Next came an attorney. He stated that “in the case of Jenkins vs. the Department of the Treasury, two plus two was proven to be four.”

Finally, the businessman interviewed an accountant. When he asked him what two plus two was, the accountant got up from his chair, went over to the door, closed it, came back and sat down. Leaning across the desk, he said in a low voice, “How much do you want it to be?”

He got the job.

At the clothing store where I work, I make it a point of pride to give customers my unvarnished opinion. One day, when a man emerged from the fitting room, I took one look at him and shook my head.

“No, no,” I said. “Those jeans look terrible on you. I’ll go get you another pair.” As I walked away, I heard him mumble, “I was trying on the shirt.”

Mick says to his brother “Well I’m going on a business trip soon and if my wife gives birth while I’m away, I want you dear brother, to name the kids,” says Mick. “It’ll be an honour to do that for you Mick,” says Paddy.

A month later Paddy calls Mick. “Hello Mick, your wife’s given birth to a boy and a girl, their beautiful,” says Paddy. “That’s wonderful Paddy, what did you call them?” says Mick. “I called the girl Deniece,” says Paddy.

“And what did you call the boy?” “I called the boy De nephew.”

A woman’s husband had been slipping in and out of a coma for several months, yet she stayed by his bedside every single day. When he came to, he motioned for her to come nearer. As she sat by him, he said, “You know what? You have been with me all through the bad times. When I got fired, you were there to support me. When my business failed, you were there. When I got shot, you were by my side. When we lost the house, you gave me support. When my health started failing, you were still by my side… You know what?”

“What dear?” She asked gently.

“I think you bring me bad luck.”

Murphy’s Laws of Computing 1. When computing, whatever happens, behave as though you meant it to happen. 2.

When you get to the point where you really understand your computer, it’s probably obsolete. 3. The first place to look for information is in the section of the manual where you least expect to find it. 4. When the going gets tough, upgrade. 5. For every action, there is an equal and opposite malfunction. 6. To err is human.. to blame

your computer for your mistakes is even more human, it is downright natural. 7. He who laughs last probably made a back-up.

8. If at first you do not succeed, blame your computer. 9. A complex system that does not work is invariably found to have evolved from a simpler system that worked just fine.

10. The number one cause of computer problems is computer solutions. 11. A computer program will always do what you tell it to do, but rarely what you want to do.

A new soldier was on sentry duty at the main gate. His orders were clear. No car was to enter unless it had a special sticker on the windshield. A big Army car came up with a general seated in the back. The sentry said, “Halt, who goes there?” The chauffeur, a corporal, says, “General Wheeler.”“I’m sorry, I can’t let you through. You’ve got to have a sticker on the windshield.” The general said, “Drive on!”

The sentry said, “Hold it! You really can’t come through. I have orders to shoot if you try driving in without a sticker.” The general repeated, “I’m telling you, son, drive on!” The sentry walked up to the rear window and said, “General, I’m new at this. Do I shoot you or the driver?”

Quote of the month “Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently… A business absolutely devoted to service will have only one worry about profits. They will be embarrassingly large.”

Henry Ford

CREATIVE SOLUTIONS FOR ALL YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS graphicbydesign.com.au phone 4365 6777 suite 3.11 platinum building 4 ilya ave, erina nsw 2260 Seniors Lifestyle Marketers

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EXCLUSIVE CORPORATE BENEFITS

LEXUS CORPORATE PROGRAMME

Overseas model shown.

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across a range of Lexus models with our Lexus Corporate Programme*.

THE BENEFITS FOR YOUR EMPLOYEES – Preferential Corporate Pricing1 – 3 year / 60,000kms complimentary scheduled servicing2 – Reduced delivery fee of $995 (ex GST) – Priority ordering and allocation – Encore Privileges Programme, including: - Service loan cars or complimentary pickup/dropoff - Lexus DriveCare, providing 24-hour roadside assistance - Lexus Exclusive events Find out more at Lexus.com.au/Corporate To access the Lexus Corporate Programme please contact Chris Andrews from Lexus of Central Coast LEXUS OF CENTRAL COAST | 13 Kangoo Road, Somersby PH 02 4340 3500 | www.lexusofcentralcoast.com.au | MD067075 1. Conditions apply. See your Lexus dealer for further details.

2. Complimentary servicing expires at 3 years or 60,000kms from the date of first registration, whichever occurs first. * Eligible models for the Corporate Programme are subject to change and may vary from time to time.

Please contact your local Lexus Dealer for more information.

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