Coast Community Chronicle 260 by Central Coast Newspapers

13 OCTOBER 2021

ISSUE 260

REAL INDEPENDENT LOCAL WEEKLY NEWS

Coast shines on global eco-tourism stage

News

Bateau Bay residents can now walk in safety from Shelly Beach to Crackneck Lookout completely in the bush, away from busy traffic along Bateau Bay Rd. See page 5

Business

Local manufacturer SpotGo has been crowned Central Coast Business of the Year. See page 26

Health

Running of the horses at Glenworth Valley – the Central Coast hinterland rounds out the complete package of beaches and national parks for a world-class eco-tourism destination

Local stories showcasing the Central Coast as an eco-tourism destination have captured international attention and a winning spot in the 2021 Top 100 Destination Sustainability Stories competition.

The Central Coast is the only NSW location on the Top 100 list, and one of only five in Australia,alongside Bundaberg, Margaret River, Port Douglas/ Daintree and Townsville. It’s a competition led by Green Destinations, which collects Good Practice Stories from all around the world to inspire travellers and tourism professionals, and then to shine the spotlight on the top 100 locations which are making promising progress toward a more sustainable tourism industry.

Emma Perham, of Destination Central Coast, said this was a wonderful accolade for the Central Coast and something everyone should be incredibly proud of. “This good news story will lift spirits and help industry focus on the future, especially moving into recovery after COVID,” she said. “Sustainable tourism is not a fleeting trend and eco-tourism values are becoming more important in shaping how people decide to travel. “This recognition just helps us to attract the kind of visitors we want to draw to the Coast, people who want to immerse themselves in the local culture and are more mindful of their environmental footprint. “We’ve got such depth of tourism product and experience

here on the Coast … a lot of people just think about beaches and national parks, they don’t realise we’ve got this beautiful hinterland, so many great operators, the food and beverage scene, so many great experiences, there’s so much more to discover than what people realise. “This Top 100 recognition is another step and ties in with our efforts for Eco Tourism Certification, all of which will help position us differently to all the other beachside towns up along the east coast,” Perham said. Council’s Chief Financial Officer, Natalia Cowley, said that being the only NSW location on the Top 100 list flagged the Central Coast’s attraction as an eco-tourism attraction to both visitors and business enterprise.

“We want to put ourselves on the map, that this is a hub for businesses focussing on nature-based eco-tourism and the environment,” she said. “We’re sending the message to everyone that if that’s your type of business, come here to set up or relocate and grow your business, you’ll be more visible and you’ll be among like-minded people in complementary endeavours. “This is precisely the focus that we have exhibited in becoming an eco-certified destination and now being recognised on this international level, as one of only five locations in Australia, is just one more step in promoting ourselves as a destination of choice for both visitors and business opportunities. “Doing this would drive the

local spend in our community to support local businesses, it will create local jobs, build our economy and also grow the community pride in our region,” Cowley said. The opportunity to enter the Top 100 was made possible through a partnership with Destination Central Coast and Ecotourism Australia, as part of the ECO Destination Certification program, fully funded by WWF-Australia (World Wildlife Fund). Emma Perham said our region’s winning story focussed on the Coast’s refreshed approach to tourism, led by the new Love Central Coast campaign, which showcases the value of the region’s natural and cultural assets and sharing the inspiring stories of local brand ambassadors. Continued page 14

Ben Brown of Bateau Bay has continued to empower people with intellectual disabilities throughout lockdown in his role as support officer with the organisation Self Advocacy. See page 25

Sport

Central Coast Mariners have announced the addition of goalkeeper Yaren Sözer to Nick Montgomery’s A-League squad this season. See page 39

Puzzles page 18

It all starts with spirit spiritsuper.com.au Advice on Spirit Super is provided by Quadrant First Pty Ltd (ABN 78 102 167 877, AFSL 284443) and issuer is Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty Ltd (ABN 14 008 650 628, AFSL 238718), the trustee of Spirit Super (ABN 74 559 365 913). Read the PDS at spiritsuper.com.au before making a decision.

coastcommunitynews.com.au - 4325 7369 - editorial@centralcoastnews.net

INFO

Page 2

13 October 2021

COAST COMMUNITY CHRONICLE - WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

CHANCE TO WIN! The Chronicle would like to offer one lucky reader the chance to win an advertising package with Central Coast Newspapers.

The lucky winner will receive a credit for a one eighth of a page advertisement valued at $250 to feature in 20,000 editions of either the Chronicle, Coast Community News or The Pelican Post, as well as in the digital edition. It will be seen by thousands of people and with the new year ahead of us, now is the time for businesses and notfor-profits to reconnect with the Central Coast community. For your chance to win write your full name, address and daytime telephone number of the back of an envelope and mail it to Coast Community Chronicle Advertising Competition, PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250, before 5pm on

13 OCTOBER 2021

Coast Community Chronicle includes “source lines” at the end of each article which aim to provide readers with information about where and how we came across the information, so that they might judge for themselves the veracity of what they are reading.

ISSUE 260

REAL INDEPENDENT LOCAL WEEKLY NEWS

News

Coast shines on global eco-tourism stage

SOURCE LINES: WHERE DO OUR ARTICLES COME FROM?

Bateau Bay residents can now walk in safety from Shelly Beach to Crackneck Lookout completely in the bush, away from busy traffic along Bateau Bay Rd. See page 5

Business

Local manufacturer SpotGo has been crowned Central Coast Business of the Year. See page 26

Health

CCN

Running of the horses at Glenworth Valley – the Central Coast hinterland rounds out the complete package of beaches and national parks for a world-class eco-tourism destination

Local stories showcasing the Central Coast as an eco-tourism destination have captured international attention and a winning spot in the 2021 Top 100 Destination Sustainability Stories competition. The Central Coast is the only NSW location on the Top 100 list, and one of only five in Australia,alongside Bundaberg, Margaret River, Port Douglas/ Daintree and Townsville. It’s a competition led by Green Destinations, which collects Good Practice Stories from all around the world to inspire travellers and tourism professionals, and then to shine the spotlight on the top 100 locations which are making promising progress toward a more sustainable tourism industry.

It should not be assumed that the article is a verbatim reproduction of the source. Similarly, it should not be assumed that any reporter listed is necessarily responsible for writing the whole news item. Source lines are not by-lines. Often articles come from a number of sources. They are edited for readability and reader interest and given different headings, and consequently can be expressed quite differently from the source material. Coast Community Chronicle usually receives its information in three ways: It is sent to us by

Ben Brown of Bateau Bay has continued to empower people with intellectual disabilities throughout lockdown in his role as support officer with the organisation Self Advocacy. See page 25

Sport

Central Coast Mariners have announced the addition of goalkeeper Yaren Sözer to Nick Montgomery’s A-League squad this season. See page 39

Puzzles page 18

Continued page 8

coastcommunitynews.com.au - 4325 7369 - editorial@centralcoastnews.net

Oct 18. The winner of the Nextbase 122 Dash Cam competition was Michelle Thomson of Ourimbah.

The winners of the Sonata competition were John Mcloskey of Davistown, Sue Froncis of Ourimbah and Enid Howell.

Prize winners may be required to pick up their prize from our Gosford office. Entries may be passed on to prize providers for marketing purposes.

DO YOU WANT TO SEND US A STORY? CCN welcomes contributions from all members of the community, including citizen reports, media releases and letters to the Editor. All contributions should be emailed to editorial@centralcoastnews.net CCN reserves the right to use, or not use, any material sent to us in our publications and to validate, amend, update, expand or reduce information at our sole discretion and in accordance with our editorial standards.

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Letters to the Editor will generally be published in their original but possibly edited form, while other published material sent to us may vary from its original form. Material that is offensive, defamatory or overtly political will not be published. We may publish promotional information based on our assessment of the level of genuine news content, and any material used which is clearly advertorial in nature, will be marked as such.

Next Edition: Coast Community Chronicle 261

contributions. Media Statement - sent in response to our questions. Website or Social Media - information published online. Newsletter or Report published in print or online. Interview or Meeting statements recorded by a reporter. Forum contributions may be: Email if sent electronically and Letter if written on paper.

someone wanting to promote their activities; it is sent to us in response to our inquiries; or it comes from a newsletter or other document to which we have access. Sometimes we may interview a person or report what they said at a meeting. The following descriptions are used: Media Release - unsolicited

All requests for advertising should be directed to manager@centralcoastnews.net. Advertising rates are impacted by three key things: – the size of the advertisement, e.g. a half-page or a one-quarter page; the number of editions that the advertisement runs; and the number of newspapers (one, two or three) in which the advertisement is run. CCN offers significant discounts for advertisements that run over multiple editions and across multiple newspapers – see www.coastcommunitynews.com.au/aboutus/

advertisingrates We also offer discounts for not-for-profit organisations and other community groups. Advertisers are invited to talk to us about becoming a DIGITAL PARTNER, which provides exclusive opportunities to promote your product, services or events on our digital platform as well. If you would like to be a DIGITAL PARTNER please call us on 0428 138 109 or email us at keeper@centralcoastnews.net

Deadline: October 18 Publication date: October 20

Coast Community Chronicle covers: Alison, Bateau Bay, Berkeley Vale, Blue Bay, Blue Haven, Budgewoi, Budgewoi Peninsula, Buff Point, Bushells Ridge, Canton Beach, Cedar Brush Creek, Chain Valley Bay, Charmhaven, Chittaway Bay, Chittaway Point, Colongra, Crangan Bay, Dooralong, Doyalson, Doyalson North, Durren Durren, Fountaindale, Frazer Park, Freemans, Glenning Valley, Gorokan, Gwandalan, Halekulani, Halloran, Hamlyn Terrace, Jilliby, Kangy Angy, Kanwal, Kiar, Killarney Vale, Kingfisher Shores, Lake Haven, Lake Munmorah, Lemon Tree, Little Jilliby, Long Jetty, Magenta, Mannering Park, Mardi, Moonee, Norah Head, Noraville, Ourimbah, Palmdale, Palmgrove, Point Wolstoncroft, Ravensdale, Rocky Point, San Remo, Shelly Beach, Summerland Point, Tacoma, Tacoma South, The Entrance, The Entrance North, Toowoon Bay, Toukley, Tuggerah, Tuggerawong, Tumbi Umbi, Wadalba, Wallarah, Warnervale, Watanobbi, Woongarrah, Wybung, Wyee, Wyee Point, Wyong, Wyong Creek, Wyongah, Yarramalong

Publisher: Ross Barry - CEO: Cec Bucello - Editor: Jackie Pearson - Design & Production: Justin Stanley, Lucillia Eljuga Journalists: Sue Murray, Terry Collins, Harry Mulholland, Maisy Rae, Skaie Hull, Merilyn Vale, Hayley McMahon, Haakon Barry Head of Distribution: Anthony Wagstaff ISSN 1839-9045 - Print Post Approved - PP100001843 - Printed by Spotpress Marrickville Voice of the Peninsula

Voice of the Peninsula 1 OCTOBER 2021

30 SEPTEMBER 2021

ISSUE 029

REAL INDEPENDENT LOCAL WEEKLY NEWS

News

Artists exhibit Bouddi inspired works

ISSUE 312

News

Bodhi loves the big blue trucks

The Wamberal Beach Save Our Sand group has welcomed opposition to a seawall as a solution to the beach’s ongoing erosion issues .

A local mental health charity has launched their annual mental health campaign to help raise awareness about good mental health and wellness.

Business

Health

See page 21

For Cleanaway driver, Mick Skillicorn, a highlight of his working week is the regular Wednesday round at Kariong.

Health

See page 27

Hundreds of workers took industrial strike action last Friday at The Entrance in a show of unity for the nationwide #ReclaimTheLine protest against the government’s “no jab, no job” mandate.

Tribunal wants to hear from residents about water rates

IPART is reviewing the maximum prices that Central Coast Council can charge for its water, wastewater, stormwater and other water-related services from July 1, 2022. Council submitted its pricing proposal on September 10 and on September 28 IPART released its Issues Paper seeking community feedback. IPART Chair, Carmel Donnelly,

CCN

said IPART would assess whether the price changes proposed by the Council represented good value for money for customers and were affordable. “The Council has proposed prices that would increase typical household bills by about 34 per cent in the first year, and then by inflation after that,” she said. “The Council’s submission says the proposed price increase will ensure it could provide water services that meet its customers’ expectations now and into the future. “This includes good quality drinking water, and reliable water supply, wastewater, stormwater and other water services.”

Council’s last proposal for water rates variation, in 2018/19, was refused. “IPART did not find enough work had gone into the proposal to justify the prices Council was seeking,” Donnelly said. “We found then that Council had consistently underspent in a number of areas and made suggestions on how it could improve its data analysis.” Donnelly stressed that community feedback would form an important part of IPART’s assessment process. “We want to make sure people are asked to pay the minimum required for safe services to be provided,” she said. Donnelly said on average, Central Coast residents pay the

lowest water rates in NSW but that would not drive IPART’s decision. “We will be looking at what an efficient water utility should charge to provide the expected quality,” she said. “It is very important for residents to know that IPART will be undertaking a very thorough review. “We are especially keen to hear from residents what they expect and what is happening now with water services. “We have already heard concerns about water quality and about Council’s management and efficiency surrounding infrastructure maintenance. “We want to hear about any leakages or overflows and will

balance the views of the community with the need for efficient services. “Affordability will also be taken into account. “These are tough times with uncertainty and economic difficulties surrounding COVID-19 and we are also aware of the recent movement in residential rates. “We will look at affordability and what is a fair ask. “Also, Council is not proposing any sort of gradual introduction for a rise and we are interested in hearing the reaction to that.” Donnelly said the proposal would attract expert independent and in-house analysis. Continued page 6

Bodhi Bennett greets the Cleanaway truck every Wednesday morning

For those stuck at home during lockdown, or business owners that have seen their incomes disappear, it’s easy to get a little pent-up. See page 27

Sunday

03 r

Octobe

Clocks move forward Sunday morning Don’t forget to change your clocks this weekend. Daylight saving begins in NSW on Sunday, October 3, when clocks are moved forward for one hour at 2am.

Puzzles page 18

coastcommunitynews.com.au - 4325 7369 - editorial@centralcoastnews.net

Water rates could rise 34 per cent Residents of the former Gosford Council LGA still reeling from rates rises of up to 42 per cent which came into effect on July 1 could also face a 34 per cent hike in their water rates next year, if a Central Coast Council submission to IPART (The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal) is successful. As IPART reviews the maximum prices that Central Coast Council can charge for its water, wastewater, stormwater and other waterrelated services from July 1, 2022, Council has also

determined to push for the 15 per cent general rate rise, which came into effect from July 1 for three years to be extended for a 10-year period (see separate story, page five). Council submitted its pricing proposal on water rates on September 10 and on September 28 IPART released its Issues Paper seeking community feedback. IPART Chair, Carmel Donnelly, said IPART would assess whether the price changes proposed by the Council represented good value for money for customers and were affordable. “The Council has proposed

prices that would increase typical household bills by about 34 per cent in the first year, and then by inflation after that,” she said. “The Council’s submission says the proposed price increase will ensure it could provide water services that meet its customers’ expectations now and into the future. “This includes good quality drinking water, and reliable water supply, wastewater, stormwater and other water services.” Council’s last proposal for water rates variation, in 2018/19, was refused.

“IPART did not find enough work had gone into the proposal to justify the prices Council was seeking,” Donnelly said. “We found then that Council had consistently underspent in a number of areas and made suggestions on how it could improve its data analysis.” Donnelly stressed that community feedback would form an important part of IPART’s assessment process. “We want to make sure people are asked to pay the minimum required for safe services to be provided,” she said.

Donnelly said on average, Central Coast residents pay the lowest water rates in NSW but that would not drive IPART’s decision. “We will be looking at what an efficient water utility should charge to provide the expected quality,” she said. “It is very important for residents to know that IPART will be undertaking a very thorough review. “We are especially keen to hear from residents what they expect and what is happening now with water services. See page 12

Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch, is calling for more staff at Gosford Hospital‘s Emergency Department. See page 31

Sport

Players and teams from across the Central Coast have been recognised for their efforts on the AFL field at Hunter Central Coast AFL’s 2021 Elliot Davey Awards. See page 40

Puzzles page 18

coastcommunitynews.com.au - 4325 7369 - editorial@centralcoastnews.net

News

It has been revealed the Commissioner of the Public Inquiry into Central Coast Council intends to interview some witnesses in private. It is still unclear if all members of Council’s Executive Leadership Team (ELT), the most senior members of staff, will be interviewed at all. The office of the Commissioner has released a list of witnesses for the public inquiry. None of the existing ELT, who were part of the ELT when the crisis occurred, are on the list. Resident, Kevin Brooks, received the list and an email from the Commissioner’s office that said: “The witness list does not include persons from whom the Commissioner will hear …

in private.” Brooks said this seemed to continue the theme of a “not so public” inquiry. “Why are some witnesses being allowed to provide their testimony in secret despite this being a ‘public’ inquiry,” he said. “First the submissions aren’t made public, then the video link doesn’t work, and now we learn some testimony will be given in secret – whilst current executives in post at the time won’t face any public questions at all. “No wonder 22,400 petitioned for a genuinely independent judicial inquiry rather than this State Government alternative.” Mr Brooks said the list included past executives who left before the crisis and

executives who joined after the crisis. Executives who were at Council at the time of the crisis and are still at Council are not on the list. “You have to wonder if Council executives who kept their jobs despite the financial collapse have now been declared some sort of protected species,” Brooks said. “These executives were responsible for managing budgets in their own departments. “They were responsible for providing reports and recommendations to the governing body. “And they were part of a collective leadership team.

“How can they not have questions to answer at this inquiry?” CCN has asked for clarification from the office of the Commissioner but has not received an answer at the time of publication. MPs Adam Crouch and David Mehan were asked for comment. Mehan said: “The Commissioner owes the Coast a detailed explanation as to why further secrecy is necessary. “Further secrecy undermine public’s confidence in the inquiry and will undermine efforts to rebuild public in our Council. “The Commissioner is supposed to have wide ranging powers but she seems to be limiting her call on the

Residents will have their chance to learn more and ask questions about State Government plans to rejuvenate Peat Island and Mooney Mooney at a series of community information webinars. See page 3

A new COVID-19 vaccination clinic aimed at supporting the Indigenous community has opened its doors in Umina. See page 3

Out&About

The Country Women’s Association’s Woy Woy Branch has put together dozens of bags to help those in need in a cross-club collaboration with the Gosford Rotary Club.

With the warmer weather approaching, local authorities have encouraged residents to be prepared for the fire season and emergencies. See page 13

Health

More Public Inquiry coverage, see Page 4 & 5 Merilyn Vale

Sport

Soroptimist International Brisbane Water is one group contributing to the project

Australian Cricket has released the fourth edition of the Press for Progress report and it is heavily supported by Cricket NSW’s powerful commitment to growing the involvement of women and girls in the sport. See page 27

Puzzles page 18

coastcommunitynews.com.au - 4325 7369 - editorial@centralcoastnews.net

Coast takes another spin on regional status roundabout The State Government’s roadmap out of lockdown has met with mixed reactions because Central Coast residents, unlike others, will not be allowed to travel to regional NSW until the state reaches its 80 per cent fully vaccinated target. The NSW Government said adjustments had been made to the 70 per cent roadmap due to ‘updated health advice’. Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch, confirmed that residents would not be able to freely travel to other parts of regional NSW even after the 70

per cent target is met on October 11. “This is because the Central Coast’s daily COVID-19 case numbers are consistently too high,” he said. “Our region is recording approximately 30 new COVID-19 cases per day. “This is even higher than most local government areas across Sydney. “Clearly, we are not out of the woods. “NSW Health has identified the growing COVID-19 case numbers on the Central Coast and in the Illawarra as two of the most concerning areas in the state.

“If our case numbers decline and if vaccination rates continue to rise between now and 11 October, I will absolutely advocate for this Health decision to be reconsidered.” During September the Central Coast was removed from Greater Sydney for COVID health order purposes but this latest announcement appears to have ‘returned’ the Coast to being part of Greater Sydney as restrictions are eased. Local Labor MPs said they were furious about the backflip on the Coast’s classification even if it is likely to only last two weeks and Federal Member for Robertson has also

expressed concern. Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch, said she was angered by the decision, noting that fully vaccinated Sydney residents could travel to the Coast from October 11. “We fought so hard to become a region, yet they’ve pushed us back in with Greater Sydney again,” Tesch said. “We’re not allowed to travel; Newcastle is allowed to come here; Sydney is allowed to come here and yet the Government has completely taken that regional victory from Coasties and absolutely squashed us. “There’s no health regulations

Health

See page 17

Central Council Council Public Inquiry coverage from Page 4 Kidney disease that affects 1.7M Australians, and in October 2021 the Kidney Community is seeking public support See page 25

Heavyweights of the Australian and international music scene will lend their support to Musicians Making a Difference (MMAD) Day on October 15. See page 17

Knitters and crocheters across the Central Coast have been hard at work during lockdown preparing for a vibrant installation set to take pride of place at Terrigal from November 19 to December 17.

See page 15

resources of the Office of Local Government at every opportunity and undermines her own claim to be independent.” Brooks’ questions come as the majority of the submissions to the Inquiry were made public after a GIPA request from a Woy Woy Peninsula resident was successful. The Public Inquiry was called in April by Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock six months after she suspended the Councillors in October last year. The Councillors were suspended when the Council made public its sudden and substantial cash flow issues.

News

Out & About

Health

Susan and Troy Thomas

Executives not listed to give public evidence at Council Inquiry

ISSUE 313

Yarn Bomb project aims to help end violence

ISSUE 030

REAL INDEPENDENT LOCAL WEEKLY NEWS

CWA has it in the bag

The Local Planning Panel deferred a decision on a block of units at The Entrance pending detailed evidence from the applicant... See page 21

See page 6

Peninsula residents still reeling from rates rises of up to 42 per cent which came into effect on July 1 could also face a 34 per cent hike in their water rates next year, if a Central Coast Council submission to IPART (The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal) is successful.

7 OCTOBER 2021

Business

With hundreds, if not thousands of Central Coast businesses impacted by COVID-19 lockdowns, many have neglected keeping their emergency response plans up to date.

A development application to construct a two-storey residential flat building in Booker Bay has recently finished its exhibition and residents are not happy.

News

White Ribbon has issued a challenge to Australian men to understand and own their role in creating a future where women and children are safe See page 8

See page 10

See page 13

ISSUE 259

REAL INDEPENDENT LOCAL WEEKLY NEWS

Strike opposes forced vaccines for workers

Business

An online art show to be presented by the Bouddi Society from October 2-12 will feature works inspired by nature from over 20 artists.

8 OCTOBER 2021 6 OCTOBER 2021

pointing it out, there’s no press releases to the local media to keep Coasties informed, there’s no communication with local members of parliament. “It’s a really disappointing … slap in the face for people on the Central Coast right now. “If Newcastle has those case numbers and is allowed to travel, why are we locked in? “So, lets open it up to Coasties to have that freedom to travel to the regions and let’s think about that hard Sydney border which is what we’ve been promised.” Continued page 4

Executives not listed to appear at Public Inquiry A Pearl Beach local and member of the Central Coast Volunteer Support Group has urged cyclists and road users to be more aware. See page 25

Sport

It’s good news for any fitness bunnies out there following the Peninsula Leisure Centre’s announcement it will reopen several of its services on Monday, October 11. See page 32

Puzzles page 18

coastcommunitynews.com.au - 4325 7369 - editorial@centralcoastnews.net

The Commissioner of the Public Inquiry into Central Coast Council intends to interview some witnesses in private and it is still unclear if some senior Council staff will be interviewed at all. The office of the Commissioner has released a list of witnesses for the Public Inquiry but none of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) at the time the crisis occurred is on the list. Resident Kevin Brooks received the list and an email from the Commissioner’s Office that said: “The witness list does not include persons from whom the Commissioner will

hear in private.” It said the witness list was a matter for the Commissioner, Roslyn McCulloch, and was signed by her assistant officer. Brooks said this seemed to continue the theme of a “not so public” inquiry. “Why are some witnesses being allowed to provide their testimony in secret despite this being a ‘public’ inquiry,” he said. “First the submissions aren’t made public, then the video link doesn’t work, and now we learn some testimony will be given in secret – whilst current executives in posts at the time won’t face any public questions at all.

“No wonder 22,400 petitioned for a genuinely independent judicial inquiry rather than this State Government alternative.” Brooks said the list contains past executives who left before the crisis and also executives who joined after the crisis. These include current Administrator Rik Hart, CEO David Farmer and CFO Natalia Cowley. But executives who were at Council at the time of the crisis and are still at Council are not on the list. “You have to wonder if Council executives who kept their jobs despite the financial collapse have now been declared some

sort of protected species,” Brooks said. “These executives were responsible for managing budgets in their own departments. “They were responsible for providing reports and recommendations to the governing body. “And they were part of a collective leadership team. “How can they not have questions to answer at this inquiry?” The Office of the Commissioner said in exceptional circumstances, the Commissioner may exercise her discretion to hear oral

submissions from a person wishing to make such submissions in confidence. During Day Three, the Commissioner said on the livestream that “Pursuant to my discretion under section 12B of the Royal Commissions Act,” some witnesses would give evidence in private. “I make decisions about those matters having regard to the particular circumstances of the witnesses and the impact that their giving of evidence might have on their current or future employment, on their mental health or other factors such as that,” she said. Continued page 4

October is Mental Health Month and Central Coast Council has pulled together a program of online courses and activities to get residents to reflect on their mental wellbeing. See page 31

Sport

Storm Roux has re-joined the Central Coast Mariners on a oneyear deal after spending three years with Melbourne Victory. See page 39

Puzzles page 22

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13 October 2021

NEWS

A taste of freedom but travel restricted Hairdresser scissors are snipping, beers are chilling and cash registers are ringing after the first stage of COVID-19 restrictions were eased across NSW for the fully vaccinated from Monday, October 11. Fully vaccinated people over the age of 16 and those who have medical exemption can enjoy hospitality venues, retail stores, hair salons, gyms, indoor and outdoor pools, stadiums and theatres, outdoor gatherings up to 30 people and 10 visitors to your home (not including children 12 and under). NSW Premier, Dominic Perrottet, said it was just a taste of freedoms to come with the state on track to pass the 80 per cent double vaccination mark within weeks. However, after 15 weeks of lockdown, Central Coast residents are still restricted to travel for holidays or recreation only within the bubble of Central Coast, Wollongong, Shellharbour, Blue Mountains and Greater Sydney until the 80 per cent vaccination rate is achieved, likely to be on October 25. Visitors from the rest of NSW

cannot come to those areas. Central Coast residents will still be able to travel anywhere in NSW for essential reasons, such as for work and compassionate visits. These travel rules only apply to fully vaccinated people. Caravan parks and camp grounds are open, car-pooling is permitted, up to 100 people allowed at weddings and funerals, dancing is allowed, churches and places of worship

are open (but no singing). Schools are open on October 18 for Kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 12, with all other students returning on October 25 and HSC exams will start on November 9. From now on people aged 16 and older should be prepared to show proof of vaccination or medical exemption when checking in to most businesses. It won’t be until December 1 before NSW opens up

completely to include those who are not fully vaccinated. The latest statistics for the Central Coast show 93 per cent of residents (aged 16 and over) have received their first vaccination and 72.6 per cent are fully vaccinated. Health authorities are warning that it is important to remain vigilant as there are still new cases of COVID in the community and new exposure sites being detected.

Since last Wednesday there has been 181 new cases, with 101 of those out in the community before being detected and 11 linked to known cases. Anyone who has been at the following venues on the dates and times listed is a casual contact who much immediately get tested and isolate until a negative result is received. Bateau Bay Square – North Home Décor, Oct 4,

Caring for families since 1843

Central Coast Offices at Erina Heights, Mingara, Palmdale, Toukley & Greenway We’re here for you when you need us most, with 24/7 phone support available and offices located across the Central Coast for your convenience. We are also able to cater for all services, with catering options available on-site at our chapel locations.

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2.15pm to 2.4pm. McDonalds Lake Haven – Oct 3, 4.20pm to 8.25pm; Oct 4, 8.15am to 8.40am and 4.25pm to 10.15pm; Oct 5, 6.20pm to 10.25pm. Coles Budgewoi – Oct 2, 3.15pm to 10pm. Coles Chittaway Point – Oct 2, 9.05am to 10.05am. Coles Northlakes shopping centre –Oct 3, 9.30pm to 10pm. Coles Toukley – Oct 1, 6.40pm to 7.40pm. Service NSW Tuggerah – Oct 5, 9.30am to 10.20am. Bendigo Bank Wyong – Sep 30, 9.30am to 4pm; Oct 1, 9.30am to 4pm; Oct 5, 9.30am to 4pm; Oct 6, 9.30am to 2pm. Coles Wadalba – Oct 4, 2.30pm to 3.15pm. Woolworths Lake Munmorah – Oct 2, 9.50am to 10.25am; Oct 6, 12.40pm to 1.25pm. Woolworths Wadalba – Oct 4, 5.30pm to 6pm. Details about other sites at Woy Woy, Umina, Gosford West, Gosford, Ettalong Beach, Erina, Wyoming, Lisarow can be found on the NSW Health website. Sue Murray

NEWS

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13 October 2021

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MPs support Red Bus Service Central Coast MPs have called for smaller operators to get a fair go against multinationals in response to the NSW Government’s decision to make Red Bus Services, which operate across the northern part of the region from The Entrance and Wyong down to Gosford, reapply for its Central Coast contract in a competitive tender.

Bus drivers Steve Robertson (left) and David Malcolm (centre) with Gosford MP Liesl Tesch, The Entrance MP David Mehan and Wyong MP David Harris

The Region 7 bus contract, which encompasses commuter and school transport routes linking communities across the

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Coast, has been put out to open tender by Transport for NSW. Red Bus Services, which has been operating in the region since 1923 and employs more than 160 local staff, holds the current seven-year contract but may be forced to compete with multinational companies in an open tender process for the 2023 contract. “Each tender requires a $250,000 deposit which is a significant amount for a local business like Red Bus Services to come up with but it’s merely a drop in the ocean for a multinational,” the MPs said in a joint statement. “Recent open tender processes, following the privatisation of Sydney and Newcastle bus services, have been awarded to multinational businesses (and) have resulted in a loss of service to those communities,” they said. “Labor MPs want to ensure that smaller operators, like Red Bus Services, can make a bid on an equal basis with multinational corporations.” Wyong MP and Shadow Minister for Central Coast, David Harris, said small regional operators should be given a weighting in the tender process to ensure they are competitive and protect local ownership and employment. “It is so important that companies with a long history and local knowledge are supported as long as they are meeting all of the compliance criteria,” he said. The Entrance MP, David Mehan said the first Motion he will move in Parliament this week will be support for Red Bus Services to have an equal footing in the tender process and Gosford MP, Liesl Tesch, said the State Government has the capacity to propose a tender process which does not allow Aussie profits to go offshore. “This Government needs to add a factor to consider the benefit to local communities of local operators in their tender processes, rather than global corporations whose profits and local-knowledge do not valueadd to our community,” she said. Swansea MP, Yasmin Catley, joined the call and said she looks forward to returning to Parliament and fighting for the Coast. “The people of Swansea know too well what happens when the Liberals hand over our bus services to multinationals,” she said. Bus drivers and other staff at Red Bus Services, based at Bateau Bay, started a community petition last month

to show the Government support for the local company. The petition now has more than 6,000 signatures. “We understand they’re trying to get the best for the state, the best for the community, but we don’t see how a multinational in our community is going to be the best for us,” said bus driver David Malcolm at a press conference with the local Labor MPs last Friday. He said data shows that the company was meeting 98 per cent in performance and the other two per cent were issues surrounding Opal cards which were out of the company’s control. “This company, which does so much in the community and so much to support the community, deserves to be treated with respect and given a fair go. “We just want Transport for NSW to renew the seven-year contract like they have always done in the past so the company has some sort of security,” Malcolm said. Parliamentary Secretary for Central Coast, Adam Crouch, said every five years, bus contracts across NSW were reassessed to ensure customer service and value for money was maximised. “I have been advised that Transport for NSW has recently begun market testing for the Region 7 bus contract which is currently being operated by Red Bus. “Transport for NSW extensively engaged with Red Bus prior to market testing but unfortunately a sustainable agreement could not be reached. “Transport for NSW is now inviting all bus companies, including Red Bus, to be part of the tender process so that a sustainable agreement can be reached. “Factors which will be considered include customer comfort and safety, innovation skills, value and sustainability. “I believe that Red Bus is a fantastic family-owned, Central Coast-based business and I have full faith in their customer service and value for money. “However, to ensure the tender process maintains a high level of integrity, the tender process must be conducted by Transport for NSW at arms-length from the NSW Government. “I have been advised that Transport for NSW is expecting to complete the tender process in the first half of 2022,” Crouch said. Sue Murray

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13 October 2021

NEWS

Can-do community builds safe path Visitors and residents of Bateau Bay can now walk in safety from Shelly Beach to Crackneck Lookout completely in the bush, away from busy traffic along Bateau Bay Rd. Residents banded together to remove mountains of noxious weeds and rubbish to create an informal, environmentally friendly bush path, safely away from traffic and at the same time saving valuable car space parking along the road. Back in July, during lockdown, residents of Bateau Bay began writing letters to local politicians, Crown Lands and Central Coast Council to see if a dangerous section of the Coast Track between Blue Lagoon and Shelly Beach could be made safe for residents and their children. This section was the only part of the Coast Track between Crackneck Lookout and Shelly Beach where pedestrians were not safely away from traffic. Site visits were arranged with Council, local politicians David Mehan and Emma McBride, Blue Lagoon management and local Landcare and Bushcare representatives. Project organiser, Judy

Townsend, said it was obvious the job was immense but nobody could have predicted the incredible support of Bateau Bay residents. “The first working bee on the October long weekend attracted only six workers, growing to 17 the following day,” she said. “Residents who couldn’t attend the clean-up came

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afterwards to pick up dozens of bags of weeds to put into their green Council bins and 10 locals also arrived throughout the day pulling their green bins behind them to fill with weeds. “Seeing the wonderful but short section of safe bush path the volunteers had produced in a few days was the stimulus for the most amazing week to follow.

“We were swamped with offers of help to try to complete the next 400m of path down to Shelly Beach the next weekend. “Bushcare helpers and volunteers tied yellow ribbons to valuable trees and plants that had to be saved and volunteers struggled through overgrown bush to outline the future safe bush path. “More residents stepped

forward to remove dangerous glass and rubbish and the following day others arrived to clear the way through almost impenetrable lantana and bitou bush.” Townsend said generous residents offered their trucks, trailers and utes to remove piles of weeds and others donated money for tip fees and hiring skip bins.

“It truly was such a wonderful community effort and even one resident who couldn’t come to the working bee put down a tab at a nearby café to keep the volunteers supplied with refreshments,” she said. “Bateau Beach Café and Munchas Café at Shelly Beach also chipped in for the volunteers. “Thank you to David Mehan MP and Emma McBride MP who were tireless with their constant support of this valuable community project. “This project showed community spirit at its finest,” Townsend said. Dan and Merrin Moir said it was a path that was so needed. “It’s life changing for us with two little kids trying to get down to Shelly Beach in safety.” Kyal Demmrich said he felt proud to be in a “can do” community. “There’s no doubt in my mind that we have stopped a tragedy from happening,” he said. Grant Ward filmed a video of the community project, taking viewers on a journey along the path, which is posted on the East Bateau Bay residents Facebook page. Sue Murray

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Councillors affected by chamber and staff behaviour Every councillor questioned by Commissioner Roslyn McCulloch at the Public Inquiry into Central Coast Council has admitted being unaware of changes to the investment report in October 2019. By the end of the first week of October all Councillors except suspended Councillor Chris Burke have given evidence. But the most shocking evidence has had nothing to do with how millions of dollars in restricted funds were spent without anyone knowing – that remains a mystery along with why the line item disappeared from the investment reports from October 2019. It hasn’t been the testimony of the more vocal suspended Councillors who dominated Council meetings since they were elected in September 2017. They have told us nothing new. The most shocking evidence has come from the less vocal Councillors who talked about things we have never heard before.

Also shocking was the reticence of a number of these same Councillors to expand on the subject of Councillor behaviours in the chamber despite urging from Commissioner McCulloch. Suspended Councillor Louise Greenaway explained that she had been the subject of a Code of Conduct complaint from a member of the public in November of 2017, only weeks into the term of the Council. She didn’t know who the complainant was but they said she had significant nonpecuniary interest in certain topics including Warnervale Airport and Mangrove Mountain tip and therefore shouldn’t be allowed to debate or vote on these matters. But Cr Greenaway had recently done her Council training and knew she didn’t have a conflict of interest. In February 2018, Cr Greenaway wrote to the Office of Local Government asking why the matter was taking so long to resolve. “So in April – so this is like five months after it, I got a phone call from Council saying they

had an urgent delivery for me…..,”Cr Greenaway said. “Then eventually one of the staff arrives at my house with the findings of the Code of Conduct, and it had actually been in the Council since I think February. “They just hadn’t given it to me for all that time and I had felt very stressed every time I was in the Council trying to debate or vote knowing that this was happening.” Earlier, the Commissioner had attempted to persuade Greenaway to open up about behaviours in the Chamber. Eventually her legal counsel, James Ryan intervened. “Commissioner, if I could just say that this is a very sensitive area for my client. She may wish to seek a short adjournment, and if she does, I’d just ask you to be sensitive about that,” Ryan said. Cr Greenaway revealed she was still working on her written submission to the Public Inquiry. Suspended Councillor Jilly Pilon told the Commissioner she had given up on her written submission as she had found it

too difficult. “I really found my time on Council in this past year has really affected me mentally,” Pilon said. “So in the end I felt that all my decisions that I’d made on Council, my voting, were all on record, all those meetings were on webcasts. “I felt that there was a lot of pressure put on that it was all the Councillors’ fault, and I did feel that that really should have gone across a lot of areas. “In the end, I just didn’t want to get involved in the blame game of where that sat, so I chose not to submit anything.” Pilon said she had let the Liberal Party know by the end of 2019 that she wouldn’t run again. “I found it too dysfunctional,” she said. “I think, for me, it wasn’t a matter of being bullied in the Chamber. That’s politics. You know, yes, there were things I didn’t agree that were said by certain – well, probably one particular Councillor to myself, but aside from that, I think there were just a lot of problems.

“It wasn’t just down to blaming Councillors that I believe went in there, all of them, with good intentions for the community.” Former councillor Rebecca Gale was also asked about behaviours in the Chamber. “What about the behaviour of Councillors towards each other?” Commissioner McCulloch asked. “Did you ever experience any untoward behaviour?” Gale answered that she had. “I did not exhibit any untoward behaviour myself. I did receive it and I’d prefer to leave it there,” she said. Suspended Councillor, Jillian Hogan, said it was very combative within the chamber from the beginning. “I’m really cognisant that it is a Public Inquiry and I don’t want to rename the things that have been said to myself and other colleagues, and especially women within the chamber, but I will say that in my experience, my values, my intelligence, my confidence, my professionalism, my family, my relationships and my womanhood have all been

maligned in this Chamber. “It was very much about what people looked like, who they spoke to, “Say this, don’t say this, just sit down, shut up”, and that was really my experience in the Chamber. “It was said to me one day that ‘I’m going to write down everything that you say and I’m going to use it against you because there is an election coming up’. “That was said to me, and that’s exactly my experience. “So what that actually does to a person is – and it certainly did to me and it certainly does today – it strips away your sense of yourself. “It makes you tongue-tied. You lose your sense of everything that you stand for and I think I talk for quite – probably another few women that have been on our Council.” The Inquiry continued in the second week of October with members of the Council’s Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee and the first Administrator on the witness list. Merilyn Vale

Central Coast Friends of Democracy ICAC is essential for our democracy One of CCFoD’s focus areas is supporting calls for a stronger NSW ICAC and a Federal Integrity Commission with teeth.The events of recent weeks have highlighted that these independent integrity commissions are essential for our democracy. The CCFoD makes no comment or assumptions about the current proceedings involving the former Premier, Ms. Berejiklian. That process needs to take its course. However, it is concerning that the tone of some of the recent commentary seeks to blame ICAC for doing its important work. This has become a standard technique of some —trying to change the narrative, spread misinformation, blaming the messenger and bullying in an attempt to force others to back down. Instead we should be applauding that we have ICAC. Now, more than ever, we need strong independent integrity commissions.

Within the last few years there have been media reports that raise concerns including: • Federal sports rorts • Federal commuter carpark fund • Leppington triangle purchase • Camellia contaminated land sale • a $252million Stronger Communities Fund intended for merged councils with $90 million going to Hornsby Council (not merged). There are suggestions that there will be moves to undermine or weaken ICAC in the future. No matter what political party you support, our community must protect our independent integrity commissions. It is through the work of individuals, journalists, and agencies that are willing to speak “truth to power” that democracy is protected —not an easy task. Together we need to shift the dial towards the kind of politics that we want.

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He said waiting until 2024 would give Council staff and the Administrator the clear air away from politics to “right side” the council. The suggestion is contained in Cr Best’s submission to the Public Inquiry into Central Coast Council. Cr Best said Council was hijacked by politics. He said that during the term of Council, the Labor Cr Jeff Sundstrom had stood for the State seat of Terrigal and a Liberal candidate he didn’t name had stood for the Federal seat of Dobell. He said an ALP Councillor and a Liberal Councillor were working for State parliamentarians. In the submission Cr Best outlined the number of times he had submitted formal notices of motions and the number of times he failed to get the Council to listen to his point of view. They included 85 motions and five rescission motions. These included repeatedly raising the alarming cost escalations of a number of projects including the library and performing arts centre proposed for Gosford. Cr Best’s submission was in narrative form which the Commissioner Roslyn McCulloch confessed to finding

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Councillors told surplus not possible - MacGregor

Best wants administration until 2024 Suspended Councillor Greg Best has suggested the next election for Central Coast Councillors should be as far away as 2024 when the next local government elections across the state are scheduled.

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13 October 2021

Suspended Councillor Kyle MacGregor wanted Central Coast Council to diversify its income and revenue.

difficult to navigate. The Commissioner spoke about the submission as Cr Best gave evidence on October 6. In talking about the financial crisis, Cr Best appealed to the Commissioner to delineate between those that called it and those that caused it when making her recommendations. He said it was patently unfair that he and the Councillors who signed the letter to the Local Government Minister in September calling for “this very inquiry” to be staring down the barrel of dismissal and of ending up in the same pile as the Councillors who allegedly did the damage. Merilyn Vale

Speaking at the Public Inquiry on October 7, he said he found it hard to get support to make that happen but the constant thing was that Council had more money going out than coming in. “What needs to be done is things that are going to make the Council profitable and for the Council to be able to actually diversify its income and revenue,” he said. “That’s something that I was very keen to do when I was on Council. “I found it very hard to get support for that, and it is about doing it in a targeted way. “A lot of Council’s operations are unable to make money. You don’t make money out of your drainage system, but you can make money out of other areas and aspects of Council.”

He said that going on the size of the ratepayer base, Central Coast Council had relatively less debt per property at $1,658.71, compared to MidCoast Council and Shoalhaven Council which both had by comparison more than double the debt of Central Coast Council on a per property basis at June 30, 2019. Cr MacGregor said he included a table in his submission that showed borrowings of Central Coast Council as of June 30, 2019 were $233M, MidCoast Council, $222.5M, Shoalhaven $222.5M and the Coast was a much larger council than both of them. “We were frequently told that we were the largest Council in the country on a financial and budget basis, and at no time did I believe that the budgets that were put forward by staff for us to adopt did not reflect our ability to perform on an

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appropriate economic level,” he said. He said prior to the adoption of the 18/19 18 operational plan Councillors were briefed by staff “who explicitly informed us that it would be impossible for the Council to run operational surpluses until the amalgamation was complete and efficiency dividends were realized”. He was told very early on that the Councillors’ role was to focus on the strategic direction of the Council. He said he had requests for information from a community group at Tuggerawong about the flooding in 2020 and he received a five-word answer from staff saying basically “you don’t need to know that”. Another time he asked for details on the directorate’s adherence to their budgets and was told it would take up to six months to respond. He said he was concerned

that some reports did not comply with the relevant Acts or regulations. He gave an example where the Local Government Act says that Council officers have to “establish and maintain a system of budgetary control that will enable the Council’s actual income and expenditure to be monitored each month” and to be compared with the estimate of the Council’s income and expenditure. If any instance arose where the actual income or expenditure of the Council was materially different from its estimated income or expenditure, it had to be reported to the next Council meeting. He said the Councillors didn’t get monthly information about the overall performance of the Council but had to rely on quarterly reports. Merilyn Vale

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13 October 2021

Crouch, State and ‘Gang of Eight’ cop Inquiry angst

Suspended Liberal Councillor Chris Burke said Terrigal MP, Adam Crouch, made things political in the Council Chambers by constantly berating the “Greens and Labor” on Central Coast Council matters.

Burke added his voice to the criticisms made by other Liberal councillors about the State Government’s involvement in Central Coast Council. He was questioned by Commissioner Roslyn McCulloch on Monday, October 11, when he said his submission was for her eyes only. Commissioner McCulloch explained GIPA requests had already made the submissions public. Burke said in his submission that he thought a reduction in

Traffic flowed across the first lanes of the new rail bridge at Lisarow last weekend, as the $178M duplication of the Pacific Highway between Ourimbah and Parsons Rd powers ahead. One lane in each direction

Councillors would be better. “The problem with our Council was the inexperience of 10 of the 15 Councillors who had been elected for the first time that term,” he said. He explained he was a Liberal Councillor and a member of the Liberal Party for 20 years. “In the two previous terms with Gosford Council, the nine councillors would put party politics aside and do the best for the community,” he said. “In the Central Coast Council, Adam Crouch constantly berated Greens and Labor on Council matters and made it political. “Labor and Greens would then make it political and vote it down.” On the financial crisis he said the first time Councillors knew about Central Coast Council’s financial position was October 2020, with an approximate

deficit of $28M. “The next week, it was reported to be $80M then $120M approximately in deficit. “At the end of October, crisis meetings were held. “These were extraordinary meetings and confidential to prevent Councillors from leaking particulars to the press, eg. Greg Best,” Burke said. Last week’s hearings included evidence from suspended Liberal Councillor, Jilly Pilon, and former Councillors,Troy Marquart and Rebecca Gale, who resigned days before the Minister for Local Government, Shelley Hancock, suspended the Council and appointed an Administrator. Pilon said she didn’t think the State Government had put in place systems and structures to support the merger and she thought it was not fair that the State Government walked away

from the merger in 2017 leaving the new Councillors with no permanent CEO or CFO in place. Gale bookended that by saying the Councillors had no permanent CEO or CFO in place at the height of the financial crisis in 2020. Marquart said no-one contacted him, not the State Government’s Office of Local Government, not the Liberal Party, after he and the others had blown the whistle in letters and he and Gale resigned. He said he was disgusted in how he had been treated. Pilon was critical of there being no financial handover at the start of the Councillors’ term. She said they were not aware of the financial situation. She said in future, Councillors needed to be briefed on investment reports and the CFO needed to make a public statement on them that is on the

website so the public would know what was going on. She apologised for not picking up the change in the investment reports from October 2019. Burke said the gang of eight (Labor and two green independents) made every decision for the Council for three years and the other seven councillors, including four Liberals were virtually tokens. “If we put up any motion, we were voted down,” he said. An alternative motion was put forward by Labor and greens and approved. “First example: Council was given a grant by the State Government for $4.2M for the Winney Bay walkway. “This grant sourced by Adam Crouch and was two years in the making. “The gang of eight ripped up

the cheque and sent it back to the State Government. “The next example: The Wallarah 2 mine was approved by the State Government in my Ward of Wyong, which has the highest unemployment rate in the state and the highest youth unemployment. “Wallarah 2 was going to provide jobs. “Central Coast Council gave $200,000 of ratepayer’s money for the fighting fund against the mine. “When questioned in Council how the funds would be spent, the money had already been spent on legal costs fighting the State Government. “This motion was put up by Labor and greens, and approved by the gang of eight,” he said. Merilyn Vale

First cars cross Lisarow rail bridge opened over the weekend and the other lanes of the four-lane bridge will open in coming days. The 1.6km extension started in February 2019 and will be two lanes in each direction to carry about 30,000 motorists who use the road every day. The rail bridge and adjacent

approaches will replace the existing narrow and often congested bridge near Railway Cres. The first half of the new bridge is supported by 27 concrete girders manufactured in Newcastle, which are 35m long and weight between 65 and 70 tonnes each.

The bridge itself contains 150 tonnes of steel, while 430 cubic metres of concrete has been used for the bridge deck. Parliamentary Secretary for Central Coast, Adam Crouch, said work was also continuing on upgrading The Ridgeway intersection to traffic lights. “The completed project will

also feature traffic lights at the Railway Cres and Macdonald Rd intersections and improved access to parking at Lisarow Station,” he said. Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Paul Toole, said the upgrade had provided work for about 1,400 people so far

including more than 150 different suppliers and contractors putting money into the local economy. The $178M project, funded by the NSW Government, is expected to be completed in 2023.

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The last Mayor of Wyong’s cross examination of the first Mayor of Central Coast turned out to be a fizzer on Day Four of the hearing of the Public Inquiry into the financial crisis of Central Coast Council. Former Wyong Shire Council Mayor, Doug Eaton, was acting as legal counsel for suspended councillor, Greg Best, and he wanted to ask the first Mayor of Central Coast Council, suspended councillor, Jane Smith, about the process and the decision to hire Gary Murphy as CEO in 2018. Commissioner Roslyn McCulloch ruled against that question saying there was no purpose in going behind the Council’s decision. She said there appeared to have been an appropriate procedure followed. However, she allowed Eaton to ask Smith about monitoring the CEO’s performance. Smith’s legal counsel, Pat Williams, argued against allowing Eaton to

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question Smith. “Otherwise, Commissioner, this process runs the risk of potentially laying itself open to the very kind of political machinations which have been discussed in the submissions before the Inquiry already and by the Administrator,” Williams said. “It lays itself open to the possibility for any of the councillors, or persons who

First of its kind Green Grid open for public comment Central Coast Council has released its Green Grid: Our Place plan – the first of its kind in regional NSW. It maps key attributes of the region so urban ecosystems, biodiversity resilience, urban amenity and connectivity between town centres, public transport hubs and major residential areas can be improved. There’s six grids – ecological, hydrological, recreational, cultural, agricultural, transport and public domain. The aim is to increase understanding of current natural and built assets and

how they can be connected in the future to encourage healthy living, enhance biodiversity and ensure ecological resilience. Council received a $200,000 grant from the NSW Government’s Metropolitan Greenspace Program in December 2019 to deliver the draft Central Coast Green Grid: Our Place plan. The plan is now open for public exhibition and feedback via Council’s online consultation hub at yourvoiceourcoast.com Source: Central Coast Council

have made a submission to this Inquiry, saying that they ought to be given a right to crossexamine a particular witness, because they have a particularly strong interest in one issue that may arise,” Williams said. Nicholas Simone, appearing on behalf of Gary Murphy, concurred with Williams. “The only point I would add to that is that Mr Eaton has submitted in his person capacity a submission to this Inquiry, and that as part of that submission, he is critical of Mr Murphy and the recruitment of Mr Murphy,” Simone said. “It appears that he now makes an application to crossexamine, yet it is unclear whether he wishes to crossexamine in his personal capacity and relating to those interests, or whether the application is brought via his representation of Mr Best.” Before making a decision, the Commissioner took a short break but came back and allowed the second question. “I remain concerned about

your relationship as a submitter as well as a solicitor, but that’s a matter for your in these proceedings,” Commissioner McCulloch said. Eaton had to reform his question when both the Commissioner and Williams said they had trouble understanding the question. Eaton then simplified the question: “What then did the Council and the Mayor do about ensuring that the general manager was monitored in respect of the financial performance of the Council,” Eaton asked. Smith answered: “Commissioner, in relation to the DPIs established in the performance management agreement, as I indicated in the submission, it recognised that some of those DPIs could not be determined because the financial reports were not available at that point in time. “I think in terms of monitoring the financials, that then came down to when those financial reports were available through

the normal processes of Council, such as the quarterly budgets,” Smith said. The Commissioner then asked if Murphy’s performance was then reviewed formally or informally at that point and Smith said no. She said the only way of formally reviewing the CEO’s performance was through the performance review process. “The finances were then monitored through the normal processes of Council where all councillors have the opportunity to raise concerns and raise issues.” The cross examination came early on Day Four of the Inquiry which started with Smith continuing her testimony after she had been questioned in private earlier on the first and second days of the Inquiry when technical difficulties meant the public could not see the livestream. Smith was asked only one question before the cross examination. She was asked how she had

coped with the impact of the fallout on you, both during your time at the Council and at the end of the Council’s term. “Commissioner, I think there was a lot of commentary in the community that was fed by councillors,” Smith said. “I think a lot of the issues and lot of the conduct in the chamber was weaponised. “There was a lot of misinformation spread both in the chamber, outside the chamber by the community, by state MPs. “Personally, I tried not to engage in that. I think from my point of view I had enough to do without trying to chase every bit of misinformation and correct it. “It just seemed to be a futile exercise. “I think unfortunately that does allow it to continue, and so my strategy may not be the right strategy, but it was the one that I had to do to be able to do my job,” Smith said. Merilyn Vale.

Murphy reluctant to act as financial chief – Inquiry Former CEO Gary Murphy told Council Public Inquiry that he reluctantly took on the added burden of chief financial officer of Central Coast Council in August 2020 when the person acting in the position, Carlton Oldfield, stepped down. Murphy said he was reluctant to take on the position since being CEO was a full-time role but there was no alternative in the short term until he was able to appoint the current CFO Natalia Cowley. Cowley arrived immediately after the financial crisis in October 2020, the crisis which resulted in the Councillors

being suspended and an administrator brought in to replace them. The administrator sacked CEO Murphy as one of his first decisions. Murphy was giving his testimony at day four of the hearings of the Public Inquiry into Central Coast Council. The inquiry was called in April of this year. Murphy said he did not have CPA (certified practising accountant) or other training so he utilised staff within the organisation while he was CFO. “There was another staff member within the innovation and futures area who was a qualified CPA, and I would pass

any concerns that I had, including reports or journals, to her and ask for her professional opinion on that before I made a decision,” Murphy said. Murphy became CEO in July 2018 at a time when the Council had been without a CFO for some months. The Council remained without a permanent CFO until Craig Norman joined Council in 2019. However, Norman then left the organisation in April 2020. Murphy said Norman left for personal reasons. “I also have to say that I did put a fair degree of pressure on him to deliver the PwC (Price Waterhouse Cooper) report that I commissioned, and also

to address the budgeting process, but he left of his own volition in April 2020,” Murphy told the Commissioner Roslyn McCulloch. Murphy faced questioning for about an hour on day four. On day five and six, October 7 and 8, eight of the Councillors will give their testimony live. Watch the youtube vision on the Office of Local Government channel. So far, suspended Councillors Jane Smith, Lisa Matthews, Richard Mehrtens, Chris Holstein and Greg Best have appeared at the hearings. Merilyn Vale

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NEWS

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Endangered bird webinar popular A new webinar on the importance of preserving Central Coast bushland to protect the critically endangered swift parrot and regent honeyeater is now available online. Hosted by Greater Sydney Local Land Services (LLS), the Saving the Swifty and reporting a Regent webinar attracted 100 participants. “There was a huge amount of interest on the day, so we decided to make the event accessible for everyone,” Greater Sydney Senior Land Services officer, Mick Budden, said. “The event was part of our ongoing project in partnership

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with local landholders, councils and the broader community to undertake weed control and revegetation activities on properties to improve swift parrot and regent honeyeater habitat.” The webinar features presentations on the importance of the birds from a range of expert speakers from Birdlife Australia, Taronga Conservation Society, Central Coast Council and Greater Sydney Local land Services. Budden said the birds were known to inhabit the bushland of the Central Coast and neighbouring areas. “We have worked with a number of landholders to restore Swamp Sclerophyll

Forest on Coastal Floodplains, a Threatened NSW Ecological Community,” he said. “These sites were selected due to their proximity to recent swift parrot sightings. “Swamp mahogany (Eucalyptus Robusta), native to the Central Coast, is also a prime winter foraging gum for nomadic pollinators including the swift parrot. “Recent studies indicate there could be as few as 750 swift parrots left in the wild with the remaining regent honeyeater population estimated at around 250-350. “We are blessed to have these rare birds living amongst us; anything we can do to raise

awareness about the importance of habitat protection is so important.” You can view the webinar via https://vimeo. com/599510135 (using Google Chrome for the best viewing experience). For more information on the birds visit https://birdlife.org. au/projects/woodland-birdsfor-biodiversity. The project is delivered by Greater Sydney Local Land Services through the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program. Source: Media release, Oct 11 Greater Sydney Local Land Services

Asset sales net $55M but details stay secret Central Coast Council has so far amassed $55M in its asset sales program, but residents won’t be privy to just what has been sold and for how much until July next year.

Administrator Rik Hart said $55M had so far been achieved under the three tranches of asset sales instituted in efforts to mitigate some of Council’s huge debt, with some sales completed and others under

contract but not yet settled. “It is an ongoing process and whilst under contract, settlement of (some of these sales) will take a lot longer than for your average house,” he said.

“With some sales not yet settled, we are not proposing to release any details.” Hart said Council would not take a “piecemeal” approach by releasing details of some sales while others

awaited settlement. “All sales are scheduled to be completed by the end of the financial year and a report will go to Council at that time,” he said. The report will be available to

the public at that time, Hart said. He confirmed an environmentally sensitive parcel of Doyalson land was among the sales. Terry Collins

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Page 13 13 October 2021

NEWS

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Coast shines on global eco-tourism stage

From page 1 “The Top 100 evaluators praised our winning Good Practice Story under the Tourism Reset and Recovery category titled A Love Story: Reshaping the NSW Central Coast,” she said. Evaluators commented that “in little more than a year, they have made an effort to change their tourism industry’s values and reimagine their future focussing on their strengths, the locals and their natural value”. “This Good Practice Story stands out because the campaign features brand ambassadors in their natural environment such as organic farm producers, world-class surfers, environmentalists, indigenous and botanical artists,” the evaluators said. Central Coast brand ambassadors include Ace

Buchan, a world-class professional surfer and environmental activist, alongside Kyal and Kara Demmrich of Bateau Bay, professional renovators and designers, also known for being on the TV show The Block. Both are also ambassadors for Take 3 for the Sea, a global ocean conservation movement based in Long Jetty.

The Coast’s entry in the competition also featured talented native flora illustrator, Nicole Berlach and diverse mural artist Grant Molony, both producing art inspired by the Central Coast’s pristine natural environment and abundance of wildlife. Representing growing local entrepreneurial spirit is the market savvy sister team of

Plain Janes and capturing the hidden magic of the Coast firsthand is filmmaker Adam Marshall. Weaving in the region’s hinterland are Eden and Louise of Fanelli Organics, an organic farm adapting to COVID-19 by developing their sustainable agri-tourism product through farm tours and farm stay accommodation.

The Central Coast will now represent NSW in the next step of the Top 100 competition, with the awards ceremony at ITB Berlin(InternationaleTourismusBorse Berlin), the world’s largest tourism trade fair to be held in March 2022. Meanwhile, the Central Coast’s journey to becoming a certified eco destination is progressing in leaps and bounds

with 10 more nature-based businesses working with Ecotourism Australia and WWFAustralia to achieve ECO Destination Certification. The Central Coast has the largest regional cohort of businesses already certified or in the process of certification. Seeking certification are Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures,Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park, Bombora Ettalong Beach SUP, Canton Beach Paddleshack, Elixir Journeys, Grace Springs Farm, Iris Lodge Alpacas, Jake Cassar Bushcraft, Rocky Trail Entertainment and Terrigal Ocean Tours. Businesses already with ECO Certification are AquaFun Avoca Lake, Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre, Noonaweena and TreeTops Adventure Park. Sue Murray

Doyalson environmental land sale shows lack of protections – CEN The fire sale of ecologically valuable land at Doyalson is the perfect example of why the Coastal Open Space System (COSS) needed to be expanded to the whole Central Coast Local Government Area, according to the Community Environment Network (CEN). CEN Chair, Gary Chestnut, said both Interim Administrator, Dick Persson, and current Administrator, Rik Hart, said they were not interested in selling environmental land as part of their asset sales program. “Yet, despite calls from CEN, and the Council’s own COSS Advisory Group, to withdraw from sale at least part of the four lots at Thompson Vale Rd, Doyalson, the lots have been put on the market,” he said. “The fact that they contain E2 Environmental Protection land that forms an essential wildlife corridor in the north of the LGA

appears to have been dismissed and the land declared ‘surplus to needs’. “Even more galling, CEN has learned that the Council plans to sell this environmental land for a price substantially lower than the purchase price paid by the former Wyong Council when it was acquired. “What exactly is going on here? Did Wyong Council use environmental funds to purchase this land? “Did Central Coast Council have a sale price and a purchaser in mind when they added it to their list of surplus assets? “We understand that properties, including the Doyalson land, were nominated for sale after a desktop review of Council’s ‘high value assets which would have the least perceived impact on the community’ and that list included: 200 Thompson Vale Rd (Lot 762 DP 746526); 740 Thompson Vale Rd (Lot 32 DP 586913 and Lot 78 DP 755245);

and 1550 Thompson Vale Rd (Lot 31 DP 586913). “CEN has written to Council Director, Scott Cox, and Administrator, Rik Hart, seeking answers to the following questions: 1. What criteria was used by Council staff to identify and select high value assets that are surplus to Council’s current and future needs? 2. When and for what purpose were the four properties at Thompson Vale Rd, Doyalson acquired by Council? 3. When Council acquired the four properties at Thompson Vale Rd, Doyalson did Council use contributions collected or the provision provided under clause 14 of Wyong Local Environmental Plan 1991? 4. Who is the independent valuer engaged by Council that determined the market value of the four properties at Thompson Vale Rd, Doyalson? “We understand our inquiry has been forwarded to Council’s

Economic and Property Development Team,” Chestnut said. “What we do know is that the Doyalson land was classified by Central Coast Council as Natural Reserve – the description we believe Council would prefer to use in the future instead of Coastal Open Space System or COSS. “It is our belief, however, that if all natural reserves were classified as Coastal Open Space System land they would be afforded a higher level of value and not be seen as so readily disposable or described as having little value to the community. “Although Central Coast Council would like to see COSS relegated to the pages of history, CEN knows how important COSS and all of the Coast’s natural reserves are to the community – they give us a sense of place – our urban green spaces, along with our beaches, define this region and add substantially to its amenity.

“This will become even more so as we build 41,500 additional residences by 2036 to accommodate the NSW Government’s population projections for the region. “The Doyalson land should not be sold. If it is, then the community should have full disclosure about its purchase history and details of the sale. “CEN will keep campaigning for all Central Coast Council’s natural assets to be included in an expanded Coastal Open Space System – it makes the best ecological and economic sense for the region’s future,” Chestnut said. Central Coast Council Administrator, Rik Hart, said he could confirm the Doyalson land was part of $55M so far amassed $55M from asset sales. Residents won’t be privy to just what else has been sold and for how much until July next year. Some sales have been

completed and others under contract but not yet settled. “It is an ongoing process and whilst under contract, settlement of (some of these sales) will take a lot longer than for your average house,” he said. “With some sales not yet settled, we are not proposing to release any details.” Hart said Council would not take a “piecemeal” approach by releasing details of some sales while others awaited settlement. “All sales are scheduled to be completed by the end of the financial year and a report will go to Council at that time,” he said. The report will be available to the public at that time, Hart said. He confirmed an environmentally sensitive parcel of Doyalson was among the sales. Terry Collins

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Page 15 13 October 2021

ON THE BEAT

Three recruits join police district Tuggerah Lakes Police District will get three new probationary constables from the latest round of recruits sworn in last Friday. Neighbouring police districts Brisbane Water and Lake Macquarie will get five and two respectively. These local probationary constables were among the 226 students of Class 349 who were sworn in by NSW Police Commissioner, Mick Fuller, at a COVID-safe attestation ceremony on October 8. They commenced duties on Monday and will undertake a year of on-the-job training to complete the Associate Degree in Policing Practice by distance education with Charles Sturt University before being confirmed to

the rank of constable. Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott, congratulated the new recruits saying that they bring a fresh boost to the Force. “After eight months of worldclass training they are now joining the NSW Police Force at its strongest and most efficient,” he said. Commissioner Fuller commended the newest probationary constables as they took their oath of office. “The challenges they will face may not yet be known, but I can assure them that they will be part of a large policing family. “They have just reached an important milestone in what will no doubt be a very rewarding career,” the Commissioner said. Source: NSW Police

Two seriously injured in motorcycle crash A critical incident investigation was launched after two men, including a police officer, suffered serious injuries following a motorcycle crash at Mandalong. At about 4:40pm on Monday, October 4, emergency services were called to Mandalong Rd near Deaves Rd after reports of a crash between two motorcycles. A 36-year-old, on-duty senior

constable, riding a marked NSW Police Force motorcycle, suffered serious injuries and was taken to John Hunter Hospital in a serious but stable condition. The second rider, a 69-yearold man, also suffered serious injuries and was airlifted to Royal North Shore Hospital in a serious but stable condition. A crime scene was established

by officers from Lake Macquarie Police District, which will be examined by specialist police from the Crash Investigation Unit. A critical incident team from the Tuggerah Lakes Police District will now investigate all circumstances surrounding the incident. That investigation will be subject to independent review. Source: NSW Police

Man charged for impersonating police officer A NSW Police Force civilian employee has been charged after allegedly impersonating a sworn police officer in the state’s north. In September 2021, police were notified that a civilian employee had allegedly impersonated a police officer

and provided inaccurate information online. Following inquiries, a 34-year-old man, who is attached to the Communications and Security Command, was arrested and taken to Wyong Police Station where he was

Help to rebuild after house fire

charged with two counts of impersonating a police officer under section 546D. He was granted conditional bail to appear in Wyong Local Court in November. His employment status is under review. Source: NSW Police

The local community was quick to respond with offers of help to rebuild after a Mannering Park couple lost everything in a house fire on Friday afternoon. Multiple fire crews, police and ambulance converged on the Monterey Ave address at about

4pm on October 8. A hazmat crew was called in because of asbestos in the roof of the two-storey house. The raging fire started in the back of the property causing bellowing black smoke which quickly blanketed the town. Two people were treated for smoke inhalation onsite by NSW Ambulance paramedics,

with one then being transported to hospital. Fire crews remained on site into the evening to ensure any flare-ups were contained. A GoFundMe has been set up, as well as collection points at the Post Office and the Bottle Shop, to help the family rebuild. Sue Murray

FORUM

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In support of the airport masterplan FORUM

Lisa Matthews’ comments about the airport masterplan briefing (“Airport briefing sounded alarm bells for Matthews” Chronicle, Oct 6) just shows how naive and politically immature our elected representatives were – and remained so.

Their decision to cancel the AAI contract was taken within weeks of being elected – with no pretence of objectivity, and obviously without having read and understood the masterplan. It was simply a knee-jerk decision by a majority who had campaigned on closing the airport, bolstered by shrill antiairport flag-wavers. That they were overawed by professionals in suits says it all. The “suits” may well have expected the Councillors to be professionally savvy, after all, they were elected to run a city. Nothing would warrant the cringing behaviour some of the Councillors displayed. Surely some would have understood what was being presented – and it was a presentation and briefing, not, as Matthews alludes, some

sort of dictated ultimatum. To cover well-trodden ground, the masterplan in question, the Landrum and Brown “Central Coast Aviation Hub Concept Plan”, sets out a seven-stage development program. The first five stages, to be undertaken in a stepped and viable timetable, show the development of the hub within the existing airport boundary, and with the existing runway length. Stages six and seven are suggested stages which would take the hub to a regional airport standard, and which would require the lengthening of the runway into Porters Creek Wetland. It must be understood that from the get-go, the entire development process would be under the control and supervision of Council. The Hub proposal is not a state or federally directed project, and the regional airport idea was well and truly out of the question for many reasons. The fact that stages six and seven were added has simply

given ammunition to the antiairport crowd who damn the entire masterplan for it. Council would be able to finalise the development at any stage. The Administrator had got the ball rolling by signing the AAI contract as a sod-turning first step and had carried out site preparation works that got the anti-airport crowd into the news on several occasions. We deserved better from our elected representatives. We need people with business nous, who have been at the sharp end dealing with high finance – and running a big ship, not a dinghy – people who can discuss Council business on equal terms, and objectively, with the relevant Council staff and experts. Instead, they commissioned reviews – because they had no idea how to make decisions on serious matters. But it is also obvious that we elect chancers, show-ponies and populists, ignoring the ones we really need to govern a city. Email, Oct 7 Geoff Robertson, The Entrance

Petrol pricing falls off its cycle FORUM

Just in case you missed it, we just had a long weekend and not a mention or sign of the petrol price going up.

I wonder why? Was it because there was no travelling allowed, so no reason to put up the price? As in the past, up to a week prior to holidays, long weekends etc, the price would automatically rise with the reason being that it was the “normal cycle” occurring. Funny that the price of petrol has been at an above-average price for some time now with virtually no discounting on the

Central Coast. Well, what has happened? On Thursday, October 7, on local radio, it was suggested that motorists should fill up their vehicles now because the price of petrol, according to sources, was going to rise to prices not seen before on the Central Coast. Hang on, there is no holiday due soon, or long weekends, so why the rise in costs? I can only suggest that the CEOs of the petrol companies have all “fallen off their cycles”.

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Maybe this just shows that this whole “cycle myth” is just a cover-up for price gouging and is driven by socioeconomic factors used by petrol companies and rotated to various postcode areas to maximise profits. I have written and phoned the NRMA to get an explanation on this “cycle phenomena”, my emails have never been published in the magazine, nor have I received a call back. Maybe the “cycle” has run out of petrol in the “explanation tank”. Email, Oct 8 Peter Caddy, Blue Haven

Hope Administrator will learn from past mistakes I refer to the letter from Bruce Hyland (Chronicle Forum, Oct 6) regarding the Council and current Administrator. This was such a well-written article that everyone should read. The details were so true it was great to see there are others that have the same thoughts about the Council. It was never revealed how the current Administrator got the job and was he really what we wanted, is he the best man for the job? For a salary over $500,000 the ratepayers expect more. Each week in the Council newsletter he contradicts himself saying we are going to

FORUM See Page 2 for address and contribution conditions. Opinions expressed are those of the writer and not necessarily of the newspaper make a profit this year but then make substantial losses, but no reason why. He appears to want IPART to increase costs to make the Central Coast the most expensive Council in NSW. He was put there to improve efficiency of the Council, not

just increase costs. In regard to the elections, I had written to him recommending the Referendum be conducted online by ratepayers rather than the antiquated and expensive current system. He said I should write to the State Government to ask for the change, he could not do it! The current Council Administration needs to ensure they do not make the same mistakes of the past but focus on what we really need. Let’s hope the Administrator gets the message about what ratepayers want and what his role is. Email, Oct 11 Phil Morrison, Bateau Bay

Lions had no say in move to Wyong Creek FORUM

The Zambia Wildlife Retreat is the best place for the excircus lions that are now the property of the Central Coast Zoo (“Six lions retire to Wyong Creek”, Chronicle, p13, Oct 6). However, as we know, the lions were never given that option. They are major money-

makers and that’s how they’ve lived their entire lives. We all need to get a protest happening and get those lions into (Zambia) sanctuary. We need to tell everybody not to take their kids to go and ogle the tragic lions who have lived

their whole lives travelling the length and breadth of Australia in tiny cages. I would love to start fundraising and obtain the money to pay the zoo off and get those lions to this peaceful haven (Zambia) to live out their days. Email, Oct 9 K Burdock, Woy Woy

Wonderful team of workers In these days of COVID doubt and distrust, let me show an insight of a dedicated band of workers. Having spent a few days in Wyong Hospital and surrounded by people’s negative thoughts of Wyong, I was amazed by the level of care and compassion handed out by nursing staff to their patients, regardless of

FORUM colour, creed, age or sex – all equal. Understaffed, yes; underpaid, yes; nurses in various stages of pregnancy on their feet for hours and others working extra shifts, yet all carried out their duties admirably.

I ask all the readers of this newspaper to contact, and bombard, your local MP with demands to adjust staffing levels and pay rates for this wonderful team of workers. Thank you to all the staff at Surgical Ward One, Wyong Hospital. Email, Oct 5 Peter Killen, Kanwal

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Page 17 13 October 2021

OUT & ABOUT

Theatre re-opens with Gang Show and full Summer calendar

Rhianna Leigh, Ruth Jordan, Isabella O’Brien

It has been a tough first year for Red Tree Theatre at Tuggerah after launching in March 2020 amidst a pandemic, but the local theatre is looking forward with a huge lineup of shows for a new season. The newest creative establishment on the Coast, Red Tree Theatre is delighted to open its doors after four months of lockdown and is gearing up for the Central Coast Gang Show from November 6. Red Tree Theatre Manager,

Ruth Jordon, said she’s excited about the calendar of events taking to the stage this summer. “We had a huge line-up of shows planned to make our mark on the entertainment scene this year and the Central Coast Gang Show will bring much-needed feel good live performance to the stage,” Jordan said. Gang Shows are a nearly 80-year-old tradition of the Scouting and Guide movement, starting in the United Kingdom before spreading around the world.

Styled on the old music hall variety shows and pantomimes of the 1930s, the shows marry music and comedy across two acts, ending on a musical celebration of the Scouts and Guides movements themselves. “We are delighted this stalwart community show that is celebrating its 30th year is joining us on stage as we open our doors in November,” Jordan said. Between November and January Red Tree Theatre has more than 10 major

performances on the calendar including the theatre’s first coproduced musical theatre work, ‘All Together Now’, which is a joint production between Red Tree Theatre, Create+Co and Jopuka. “’All Together Now’ is a oneweekend concert that showcases community theatre from across the world as part of Musical Theatre International’s Global Celebration. “We are very proud to be able to showcase our own work as a small, regional venue, it’s

going to be wonderful,” Jordan. Other entertainment coming up over summer at Red Tree Theatre includes Lysa and The Freeborn Dames, Fame, Rock Anthology, Carols by Cabaret, JD’s World of Magic and Ruthless the Musical. “We are so proud of the offering we have put together for the theatre this summer, as there is a fantastic mix of musicals, plays, live music and classics that will ensure everyone can get back into live and local entertainment.

“We of course will be adhering to all health guidelines when we are open and operating under our strict COVID safe plan which includes all performers and patrons being double vaccinated, and masks will be compulsory until the end of the year,” Jordan said. For more information on bookings and shows, visit https://eldersleefoundation. org.au/red-tree-theatre/. Source: Media release, Oct 11 Red Tree Theatre

Project funding available for charities Not-for-profit and charity organisations seeking funding for local projects have until midnight on October 22 to apply for a grant from Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation as part of its latest funding round. The Charitable Foundation has $800,000 on offer to support community-based organisations that require

funding for a new or existing project that aims to address disadvantage or empower new opportunities for marginalised or isolated people. Charitable Foundation Executive Officer, Graham Batten, said last year had been especially tough for charities and not-for-profit organisations. “In the context of continuous restrictions and lockdowns, local charities and not-for-

profit organisations have found carrying out their normal work more difficult and complex, and in some cases impossible. “All at a time when they are needed more than ever, with the growing impact of COVID-19 being felt across Australia, and the world. “We believe we can make a real difference by supporting grassroots organisations, embedded in their local communities,” Batten said.

“We know there’s a lot of worthy programs looking for support, many of which under considerable pressure right now, so we’re making it as easy as possible for organisations to apply. “In addition to a range of tools to guide them through the application process, our website includes information on virtual grant-seeker workshops which we will hold in coming weeks,” Batten said.

Applications close on October 22 and to be eligible for funding a group must be endorsed by the Australian Taxation Office as a Type One Deductible Gift Recipient and hold Tax Concession Charity status, be registered with the Australian Charities and Not-For-Profit Commission, and be a not-forprofit organisation which is charitable at law, and a legal entity such as an incorporate association or corporation.

Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation has a long history of supporting regional communities. Since 2003 its grants program has invested more than $23M in 512 projects and initiatives to help local communities’ most vulnerable people. Source: Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundations

OUT & ABOUT Page 18 13 October 2021

COAST COMMUNITY CHRONICLE - WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

$150,000 local litter grants available Community groups, councils, regional waste groups, and businesses across NSW can access $2M in grants to help clean-up and prevent litter, Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Engagement, Education and Programs Executive Director, Liesbet Spanjaard, announced on October 5. Litter Prevention Grants of up to $150,000 are available in four streams including Council Litter Prevention Grants Program, Litter Regional Implementation Program, Community Litter Prevention Grants Program and the

Cigarette Butt Litter Prevention Grants Program. Spanjaard said that NSW had already seen a 43 per cent reduction in statewide litter volume since 2013/14. “These grants provide the opportunity to build on that success with exciting local initiatives. “Community groups and councils including regional waste groups, can apply for grants of up to $150,000 for projects that help prevent and clean up local litter. “This might include installing cigarette butt bins in parks, localising the successful Don’t be a Tosser campaign, running

community clean up days or developing education strategies and litter enforcement campaigns.

“Businesses such as pubs and clubs, and government organisations can apply under the Cigarette Butt grant stream for projects that help manage

butt litter. “Projects completed through previous grants have had great success, reducing average litter by 70 per cent at targeted hotspots. “We know litter is less likely to return once it’s cleaned up, so these local initiatives have a real impact. “I encourage groups, councils and businesses to brainstorm the best way to tackle litter in their area and to put those ideas into action by applying for a Litter Prevention Grant,” Spanjaard said. The Litter Prevention Grants support the litter targets in the NSW Government’s Waste and

Materials Strategy 2041 and the NSW Plastics Action Plan, including a 30 per cent reduction in plastic litter by 2025, and a 60 per cent reduction in overall litter by 2030. Applications for the Litter Prevention Grants Transition Round are open until November 8, 2021. More information about each of the grant streams including how to apply is available at https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/ working-together/grants/litterprogram Source, Media release, Oct 5 NSW Environment Protection Authority

Awards recognise landscape preservation Landcare and Local Land Services (LLS) are encouraging landholders, community groups and students to nominate for

the 2021 NSW Landcare Awards, which recognise individuals and groups for their contributions to preserving the

state’s landscape. Acting LLS Chair, Allison Harker, said the awards were an opportunity to celebrate and Re

sib

ers

hip

Your dog is your responsibility!

honour Landcare champions excelling in sustainable agricultural practices and environmental conservation. “Following bushfires, drought and floods, there are so many projects in NSW, whether they be habitat restoration for threatened species or innovative farming practices, that deserve to be recognised. “These projects play a vital role in restoring and maintaining our environment at a local level, and the Landcare awards are a terrific opportunity to recognise and reward hard work and passion,” Harker said. Landcare NSW Chair, Stephanie Cameron, said the

awards enable NSW Landcarers to be recognised for their important contributions in natural resource management and participation. “It has never been more important that we continue to support and recognise the dedication and commitment of our Landcarers and recognise their tremendous efforts,” Cameron said. Nominations can be lodged at www.landcareaustralia.org. au/landcare-awards-2021/ and are open until October 31. There are eight categories including Australian Government Individual Landcarer Award, Australian Partnership for Landcare

Do you have a furry friend in the family? It's important to learn what's involved with being a responsible dog owner.     

Microchipping and registration Training and socialising your dog Rules for dogs in public places Safety around children Reporting dog attacks

Award, Australian Government Landcare Farming Award, Coastcare Award, Landcare Community Group Award, Woolworths Junior Landcare Team Award, KPMG Indigenous Management Award and Young Landcare Leadership Award. NSW winners will be announced at the 2022 NSW Landcare and Local Land Services Conference held in March at Tweed Heads. Landcare Australia CEO, Shane Norrish, said the Landcare Awards were an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of those leading the wider community to engage and participate in managing the environment and natural resources in their local area. “Volunteers play a vital role in restoring and maintaining our environment at a local level, and the prestigious Landcare Awards are a terrific opportunity to acknowledge their efforts and celebrate their achievements,” Norrish said. Source: Media release, Oct 5 NSW Local Land Services

Search 'Responsible pet ownership' at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au to learn more.

COASTAL DIARY A COMPREHENSIVE LISTING OF EVENTS OVER THE NEXT FEW WEEKS ON THE CENTRAL COAST THURSDAY, OCT 14 EIFFEL, Avoca Beach Theatre, 14/10 - 20/10, ticketed, multiple sessions RESPECT, Avoca Beach Theatre, 14/10 - 20/10, ticketed, multiple sessions

WEDNESDAY, OCT 20 Tom Petty: Somewhere You Feel Free: The Making of Wildflowers, Avoca Beach Theatre, ticketed, 6:30pm

FRIDAY, OCT 22 Radical Reels by the Banff Mountain Film Festival, Avoca Beach Theatre, ticketed, 7pm

FRIDAY, OCT 29

Lady Day - Billie Holiday LIVE Amber Lawrence Live Concert, CONCERT with The Rodric White Avoca Beach Theatre, Septet & Simone Waddell, ticketed, 7:30pm Avoca Beach Theatre, ticketed, 7:30pm SUNDAY, NOV 7

FRIDAY, NOV 5

The Lakes Festival, 5/11 - 14/11 Multiple locations

Antique Roadshow: items wanted for cash, Mercure Kooindah Wa-

ters - 40 Kooindah Blvd, Wyong, 7/11 - 13/11, 10am - 3pm International chocolate day with high tea, Avoca Beach Theatre, ticketed, 7:30pm

FRIDAY, NOV 19 Simon Tedeschi & George Washingmachine Live In Concert, Avoca Beach Theatre, ticketed, 7:30pm

Basic entries in the Coastal Diary are FREE. Send information to coastaldiary@centralcoastnews.net. ENHANCED entries using bold typeface with an address, phone number and a live link are available for a small fee. Photographs can also be added for a small fee. All display advertisers are entitled to a free enhanced entry.

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU - COAST COMMUNITY CHRONICLE

Page 19 13 October 2021

OUT & ABOUT

New format to celebrate local waterways The Central Coast Lakes Festival is one of the Coast’s highly anticipated annual events and this year Central Coast Council has created a new format for the event to ensure it can proceed in line with Public Health Orders. The 2021 Program includes the animated mascot Pippa the Pelican appearing in educational videos and on social media to share key messages around our waterways. There will also be the Get Active Scavenger Hunt where people can complete challenges and activities along four shared pathways using a mobile app, with a Stand-Up Paddle Board prize for the winner with the highest points.

These shared pathways are located at Tuggerawong, Chittaway, The Entrance, Gosford, Woy Woy, Kincumber and Davistown. The festival will also have a series of kids’ craft and science activities, as well as Eat Fest, which will feature different local food trucks popping up in a new waterway location each day during the festival for patrons to grab some takeaway or a picnic within restrictions. Council will also spotlight its iBook’s, eBooks, virtual tours and videos from loveourwaterways. centralcoast.nsw.gov.au and will work with relevant organisations to hold Stand-Up Paddleboard Yoga, kayaking or surfing lessons and other activations if restrictions allow. Council Director of Community

and Recreation Services, Julie Vaughn, said Council had to cancel last year’s event due to COVID and an online format with a real-world scavenger hunt would ensure the event could go ahead and people could celebrate lcoal waterways in a COVID-safe way. “Waterways are a huge part of the Central Coast community’s lifestyle. “They underpin our identity, support our local economy, provide recreational and social opportunities for locals and visitors, and support our mental and physical wellbeing. “The Lakes Festival has had year on growth, more than doubling in size from 2015 to attract 65,000 attendees to 10 event hubs right across the Coast and we are excited to

think of new ways for people to experience our waterways,” Vaughn said. Council Administrator, Rik Hart, said the community had proven to be resilient throughout the pandemic. “The Central Coast community has been consistently disrupted by Public Health Orders and NSW Government restrictions. “The current NSW Government restrictions have also significantly impacted the ability to deliver events. “The Lakes Festival is something that many people and local businesses look forward to and while we are unable to deliver the event in the same format as previous years, we hope that this new program will lift people’s spirits and connect us in celebration,” Hart said.

Memorial Park at The Entance in November 2019 for Light Up The Lake, part of The Lakes Festival

Lakes Festival 2021 will run from November 5 to 14. Council will issue further details closer to the date at

centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/ TheLakesFestival. Harry Mulholland

Leos lend a formal hand The Northlakes High School Leo Club has launched a new initiative to provide free formal dresses to Year 10 and Year 12 students who may be doing it tough financially this year.

Northlakes High School Leo Club Advisor, Lynda Elsley

The initiative is called Belle of the Ball, and Northlakes High School Leo Advisor, Lynda Elsley, said they had 40 new

dresses from a formalwear shop that closed down and lots of preloved formal dresses. “There are many families out in the community who are struggling financially this year, particularly families who have had their parents not working because of COVID lockdown. “The dresses are truly beautiful, most are long

dresses, some beaded and sequined, some with diamante features on them and others are plain. “There are so many styles and designs with sizes from 4-18. “Many of the dresses still have the original price tag on the dress so no one will ever know that you didn’t pay over

$300 for your dress,” Elsley said. Confidential sessions to try on these dresses at Chittaway Bay are available by booking in with Lynda Elsley on 0449 057 780. Source: Media release, Oct 10 Northlakes High School Leo Club

Grants open for Women’s Week 2022 Preparations are underway for Women’s Week events in March 2022, with a $100,000 grants program now open for a range of community, education and mentoring projects. The grants are open to events that bring women and girls together and provide practical

support to help women. Grant applications should be for events that support women’s financial wellbeing and security, encourage a holistic approach to health and wellbeing or help women to build confidence and celebrate their achievements. NSW Minister for Women,

Bronnie Taylor, said providing opportunities to talk about issues facing women was important as it broke the sense of isolation. “Community workshops and other events not only allow us to support and connect with each other, they provide a platform for us to find solutions to these problems together,”

she said. NSW Women’s Week provides an opportunity to celebrate and thank women for everything they do in our community, says Parliamentary Secretary for Central Coast, Adam Crouch. “With so many truly outstanding women of all ages and demographics on the

Central Coast, this is a wonderful opportunity for the women across our region to showcase their attributes,” he said. “Each year I am spoilt for choice when it comes to nominating a local Woman of the Year and I encourage local not-for-profit organisations, as well as Central Coast Council,

to embrace this opportunity to highlight the inspirational women on the Coast,” Crouch said. Applications for grants close on November 15, online at womennsw.smartygrants. com.au/WWG22 Sue Murray

Page 20

Thursday 14 October

Wednesday 13 October

6 October 2021

6:00 9:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 12:30 1:35 2:00 3:00 4:10 5:05 6:00 7:00 7:30 8:00 8:30 9:05 9:50 10:15 11:00 11:15 11:30 12:15 12:30 6:00 9:00 10:00 10:30 11:00 12:00 1:00 1:30 2:00 3:00 4:10 5:10 6:00 6:55 7:00 7:30 8:00 8:30 9:35 10:25 10:40 10:55 11:15

Friday 15 October

6:00 9:00 10:00 11:05 12:00 1:00 1:30 3:00 4:10 5:10 6:00 7:00 7:30 8:30 9:20 10:05 10:45 11:00 11:15 11:50 12:40

COAST COMMUNITY CHRONICLE - WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

ABC (C20/21)

PRIME (C61/60)

News Breakfast [s] 6:00 ABC News Mornings [s] 9:00 Don’t Stop The Music [s] 11:30 12:00 The Repair Shop [s] ABC News At Noon [s] National Press Club Address Media Watch (PG) [s] The Bletchley Circle - San Francisco (M v) [s] 2:00 ABC News Afternoons [s] Escape From The City [s] Grand Designs Australia (PG) 3:00 The Drum [s] ABC News [s] 4:00 5:00 7.30 [s] Hard Quiz (PG) [s] 6:00 Gruen [s] 7:00 7:30 Frayed (MA15+) [s] 8:45 Back (MA15+) [s] Adam Hills: The Last Leg (M) 10:45 ABC Late News [s] The Business [s] 11:15 Four Corners [s] Media Watch (PG) [s] 12:15 Silent Witness: Family (Part 2) 12:45 2:30 (MA15+) 6:00 News Breakfast [s] 9:00 ABC News Mornings [s] 11:30 Australian Story [s] The Greek Islands With Julia 12:00 Bradbury [s] Harry Seidler: Modernist [s] ABC News At Noon [s] Hard Quiz (PG) [s] How Extra (PG) [s] 2:00 The Bletchley Circle - San Francisco (M v) [s] 2:30 ABC News Afternoons [s] Escape From The City [s] Grand Designs Australia (PG) 3:00 4:00 The Drum [s] 5:00 Sammy J (PG) [s] 6:00 ABC News [s] 7:00 7.30 [s] 7:30 Foreign Correspondent [s] Q&A [s] Secrets Of The Museum [s] You Can’t Ask That (M l) [s] 10:30 ABC Late News [s] 11:00 The Business [s] Big Weather (And How To 12:30 Survive It) [s] 6:00 News Breakfast [s] 9:00 ABC News Mornings [s] 11:30 Q&A [s] 12:00 Australia Remastered: Great Barrier Reef [s] ABC News At Noon [s] 2:00 Foreign Correspondent [s] 3:00 Sherlock (M v) 4:00 ABC News Afternoons [s] 5:00 Escape From The City [s] Grand Designs Australia (PG) 6:00 7:00 The Drum [s] ABC News [s] Gardening Australia: Rare Plants, Youth Justice And Palms [s] Annika (M v) [s] Capital (M l) [s] 8:30 Talking Heads: An Ordinary Woman (M l) [s] ABC Late News [s] The Vaccine [s] Gruen [s] Frayed (MA15+) [s] 11:15 rage (MA15+) [s] 1:30

Also see: ABC PLUS (Channel 22) ABC ME (Channel 23) ABC NEWS (Channel 24)

Sunrise [s] The Morning Show [s] Seven Morning News [s] Movie: “Wicked Mom’s Club” (PG) (’17) Stars: Jessica Blackmore, Virginia Tucker, Ashley Wood Garcia, Joy Darash, Geri-Nikole Love, Bekka Walker The Real Manhunter: The Murder Of Christophen Donovan (M v) [s] The Chase UK (PG) [s] Seven News At 4 [s] The Chase Australia (PG) [s] Seven News [s] Home And Away (PG) [s] SAS Australia: Debrief (M) [s] America’s Got Talent: Audition 1 (PG) [s] The Latest Seven News [s] Chicago Fire: One Crazy Shift (M) [s] The Windsors (M l,s) [s] First Dates Australia (M) [s] Home Shopping Sunrise [s] The Morning Show [s] Seven Morning News [s] Movie: “Stranger At The Door” (M v) (’04) – A married couple’s adopted son turns up at their home after several years, and has bad intentions for them. Stars: Linda Purl Kochie’s Business Builders (PG) [s] Border Security International (PG) [s] The Chase UK (PG) [s] Seven News At 4 [s] The Chase Australia (PG) [s] Seven News [s] Home And Away (PG) [s] Cricket: Women’s Big Bash League: Sydney Sixers v Melbourne Stars *Live* From Blundstone Arena [s] The Latest Seven News [s] America’s Got Talent: Audition 2 (PG) [s] Home Shopping Sunrise [s] The Morning Show [s] Seven Morning News [s] Movie: “Heaven” (M v) (’19) Stars: Manoj Anand, Linda Dootson, Jagdish Shukla House Of Wellness (PG) [s] The Chase UK (PG) [s] Seven News At 4 [s] The Chase Australia (PG) [s] Seven News [s] Better Homes And Gardens [s] – Joh and Pete take a tour of Bunker House, a fully automated smart home. Graham showcases the frangipani. Dr. Harry visits the NSW Mounted Police Force. Movie: “Knives Out” (M) (’19) – A detective must sift through a family’s web of lies and red herrings to uncover the truth behind the death of a crime novelist. Stars: Daniel Craig Program To Be Advised Home Shopping

Also see: 7TWO (Channel 62) 7MATE (Channel 63) 7FLIX (Channel 66)

NINE (C81/80)

6:00 9:00 11:30 12:00 1:00 2:00 3:00 4:00 5:00 6:00 7:00 7:30 8:40 9:40 10:40 11:10 12:05 1:00 1:30 6:00 9:00 11:30 12:00 1:00 2:00 3:00 4:00 5:00 6:00 7:00 7:30 8:30 9:30 10:00 10:30 11:45 12:35 1:30 6:00 9:00 11:30 12:00 1:50 2:00 3:00 4:00 5:00 6:00 7:00 7:30 8:00 8:30 11:20 1:10 1:30

Today [s] Today Extra (PG) [s] NINE’s Morning News [s] The Block: Backyard Week (PG) [s] Desperate Housewives: In A World Where The Kings Are Employers (M) [s] Pointless (PG) [s] Tipping Point (PG) [s] NINE’s Afternoon News [s] Millionaire Hot Seat [s] NINE News [s] A Current Affair (PG) [s] The Block: Backyard Week (PG) [s] Love Island Australia (M) [s] Botched: Melting Mounds And Unlucky Charms (M) [s] NINE News Late [s] Confessions Of A Serial Killer With Piers Morgan (MA15+) [s] Pearson: The Former City (M) A Current Affair (PG) [s] Home Shopping Today [s] Today Extra (PG) [s] NINE’s Morning News [s] The Block: Backyard Week (PG) [s] Desperate Housewives: Crime Doesn’t Pay (M) [s] Pointless (PG) [s] Tipping Point (PG) [s] NINE’s Afternoon News [s] Millionaire Hot Seat [s] NINE News [s] A Current Affair (PG) [s] Paramedics (PG) [s] – Steve races to remote bushland where a huge tree has fallen and crushed a man’s leg. Love Island Australia (M) [s] Love Island Australia Aftershow (M) [s] NINE News Late [s] Reported Missing: Joshua And Katie (M) [s] The Fix: The Wire (M) [s] Tipping Point (PG) [s] Home Shopping Today [s] Today Extra (PG) [s] NINE’s Morning News [s] Movie: “Dating To Kill” (M s,v) (’19) Stars: Clare Kramer Talking Honey - Relationship Specials: Domestic Dilemma (PG) [s] Pointless (PG) [s] Tipping Point (PG) [s] NINE’s Afternoon News [s] Millionaire Hot Seat [s] NINE News [s] A Current Affair (PG) [s] Country House Hunters Australia: Castlemaine, Victoria [s] Country House Hunters Australia: Rosebud [s] Movie: “Mission: Impossible Fallout” (M v) (’18) Stars: Tom Cruise, Henry Cavill Movie: “Mortdecai” (M) (’15) Stars: Johnny Depp Fishing Australia [s] Home Shopping

Also see: GEM (Channel 82) GO! (Channel 83/88) LIFE (Channel 84)

TEN (C10)

SBS (C30)

5:30 6:00 The Talk [s] 7:00 Judge Judy (PG) [s] 7:30 The Bold And The Beautiful (PG) [s] 8:00 Studio 10 (PG) [s] 1:00 12:00 Dr Phil (PG) [s] 2:00 1:00 Program To Be Advised 2:30 2:00 Entertainment Tonight [s] 3:30 2:30 Farm To Fork [s] 3:00 Judge Judy (PG) [s] 4:00 3:30 Freshly Picked [s] 4:00 Everyday Gourmet With 5:05 Justine Schofield [s] 4:30 The Bold And The Beautiful 5:30 6:00 (PG) [s] 6:30 5:00 10 News First [s] 7:30 6:30 The Project (PG) [s] 7:30 The Graham Norton Show (M) [s] 8:35 8:30 Bull: Gone (M) [s] 9:30 Bull: Law Of The Jungle (M) [s] 9:30 10:30 Bull: Under The Influence (M) 10:35 11:30 The Project (PG) [s] 11:05 12:30 The Late Show (PG) [s] 1:30 Home Shopping 12:05 4:30 CBS Mornings [s] 4:30 6:00 The Talk [s] 5:30 7:00 Judge Judy (PG) [s] 1:00 7:30 The Bold And The Beautiful 2:00 (PG) [s] 8:00 Studio 10 (PG) [s] 2:55 12:00 Dr Phil (PG) [s] 1:00 Ambulance UK (PG) [s] 3:25 2:00 Entertainment Tonight [s] 2:30 Farm To Fork [s] 3:55 3:00 Judge Judy (PG) [s] 3:30 Freshly Picked With Simon 5:05 Toohey [s] 5:30 4:00 Everyday Gourmet With 6:00 Justine Schofield [s] 6:30 4:30 The Bold And The Beautiful 7:35 (PG) [s] 5:00 10 News First [s] 8:35 6:30 The Project (PG) [s] 9:30 7:30 Ambulance Australia (PG) [s] 10:35 8:40 Gogglebox (PG) [s] 11:05 9:40 Program To Be Advised 12:05 10:40 Blue Bloods: Times Like 2:00 These (M v) [s] 11:40 The Project (PG) [s] 3:55 12:40 The Late Show With Stephen 4:45 Colbert (PG) [s] 5:30 6:00 The Talk [s] 7:00 Judge Judy (PG) [s] 7:30 The Bold And The Beautiful (PG) [s] 8:00 Studio 10 (PG) [s] 1:00 2:00 12:00 Dr Phil (PG) [s] 1:00 The Living Room [s] 3:00 2:00 Entertainment Tonight [s] 2:30 Farm To Fork [s] 3:30 3:00 Judge Judy (PG) [s] 4:00 3:30 Freshly Picked [s] 4:00 Everyday Gourmet [s] 4:30 The Bold And The Beautiful 5:05 (PG) [s] 5:30 5:00 10 News First [s] 6:00 6:30 6:30 The Project (PG) [s] 7:30 The Living Room [s] 7:35 8:30 Program To Be Advised 9:30 Program To Be Advised 10:30 The Montreal Comedy 8:30 Festival: Just For Laughs #2 10:30 (MA15+) [s] 11:00 11:30 The Project (PG) [s] 12:30 The Late Show With Stephen 11:55 Colbert (PG) [s] 4:10 1:30 Home Shopping

Also see: 10 PEACH (Channel 11) 10 BOLD (Channel 12)

Classifications: (G) General, (PG) Parental Guidance, (M) Mature Audiences, (MA15+) Mature Audience Over 15 Years, [s] Subtitles Consumer Advice: (d) drug references, (s) sexual references or sex scenes (h) horror, (l) language, (mp) medical procedures, (n) nudity, (v) violence

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Worldwatch – Deutsche Welle English News 6:00 France 24 News 6:30 Al Jazeera English News 7:00 BBC News 7:30 Worldwatch Continues PBS Newshour Dateline Insight The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) Remarkable Places To Eat (PG) Jeopardy! (PG) Letters And Numbers Mastermind SBS World News Australia’s Health Revolution (M) 24 Hours In Emergency: Into The Light (M) New Gold Mountain (M d,l,v) SBS World News Atlantic Crossing (M v) (In Norwegian/ English) The Killing (M l) (In Danish) Vice Guide To Film (M l,v) Worldwatch PBS Newshour The Story Of The Songs: Metallica (M l) Where Are You Really From? (PG) The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) Remarkable Places To Eat (PG) Jeopardy! (PG) Letters And Numbers Mastermind SBS World News Coastal Devon And Cornwall With Michael Po (PG) Back To The Titanic (PG) New Gold Mountain (M d,l,v) SBS World News Gomorrah (MA15+) (In Italian) Mr Mercedes (MA15+) The Name Of The Rose (M n,s,v) Huang’s World (M l) Destination Flavour Singapore Bitesize Worldwatch – Deutsche Welle English News 6:00 France 24 News 6:30 Worldwatch Continues PBS Newshour The Story Of The Songs: Rod Stewart (PG) NITV News: Nula The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) Remarkable Places To Eat (PG) Jeopardy! (PG) Letters And Numbers Mastermind SBS World News Legends Of The Pharaohs: Curse Of The Pyramids (PG) (In English/ French) Bermuda Triangle (PG) SBS World News 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) The Eagle (M l,v) (In Danish/ Swedish) Huang’s World (M l)

Also see: SBS VICELAND (Channel 31) SBS MOVIES (Channel 32) SBS FOOD (Channel 33) SBS NITV (Channel 34)

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Sunday 17 October

Saturday 16 October

ABC (C20/21)

6:00 7:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 12:30 1:30 3:00 4:00 4:30 5:10 6:10 7:00 7:30

8:20 9:15 10:15 11:10 6:00 7:00 9:00 10:00 10:30 11:00 11:30 12:00 12:30 1:30 2:30 3:30 4:00 5:00 5:30 6:30 7:00 7:40 8:40 9:35 10:20

Tuesday 19 October

Monday 18 October

11:10 6:00 9:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 1:00 2:00 3:15 4:10 5:10 6:00 7:00 7:30 8:00 8:30 9:15 9:35 10:05 11:05 11:20 11:35 1:05 2:05 2:50 4:25 6:00 9:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 1:00 2:00 3:15 4:10 5:10 6:00 7:00 7:30 8:05 8:30 9:25 10:35 11:50 11:05 12:10 12:40 1:40 3:10

PRIME (C61/60)

TEN (C10)

NINE (C81/80)

rage (PG) [s] 6:00 Weekend Breakfast [s] 7:00 rage (PG) [s] 10:00 rage Guest Programmer (PG) 12:00 ABC News At Noon [s] Annika (M v) [s] 5:00 Midsomer Murders: 5:30 Murder Of Innocence (M d,v) [s] Restoration Australia: 6:00 Paganin, WA (PG) [s] 7:00 Dream Gardens: Essendon (PG) [s] Landline [s] Rick Stein’s Road To Mexico (PG) [s] The Repair Shop [s] ABC News [s] Grantchester (PG) [s] – Will and Geordie are drawn into local politics when the death of a councillor prompts a parish 9:45 election. Shetland (M l,v) [s] Fires (M l) [s] 12:00 Mrs Wilson (M) [s] rage Guest Programmer (M) 1:00

Home Shopping [s] Weekend Sunrise [s] The Morning Show [s] Seven’s Horse Racing: Caulfield/ Randwick [s] Seven News At 5 [s] Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) [s] Seven News [s] Movie: “Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban (PG) (’04) – Harry, Ron and Hermione return as teenagers for a third term at Hogwarts. But Harry’s fate looks bleak when the infamous Sirius Black escapes from prison. Stars: Emma Watson, Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Gary Oldman, Michael Gambon Movie: “X-Men: The Last Stand” (M v) (’06) Stars: Anna Paquin, Halle Berry, Hugh Jackman, James Marsden Manhunt (M l,v) [s] Home Shopping

6:00 7:00 10:00 12:00 12:30 1:00 1:30 2:00

6:00 rage (PG) [s] 7:00 Weekend Breakfast [s] 10:00 Insiders [s] 12:00 Offsiders [s] 1:00 The World This Week [s] 1:30 Compass [s] Songs Of Praise [s] ABC News At Noon [s] Landline [s] 5:00 Gardening Australia [s] Rick Stein’s Road To Mexico 5:30 6:00 (PG) [s] Todd Sampson’s Life On The 7:00 8:00 Line: Air Pressure (PG) [s] Secrets Of The Museum (PG) 8:30 Art Works [s] Antiques Roadshow [s] Back Roads [s] ABC News Sunday [s] Restoration Australia [s] Fires (M) [s] We Hunt Together (MA15+) [s] Les Norton: Day Of The Gecko (MA15+) [s] Talking Heads: An Ordinary 11:45 Woman (M l) [s]

Home Shopping Weekend Sunrise [s] The Morning Show Weekend House Of Wellness (PG) [s] Program To Be Advised Cricket: Women’s Big Bash League: Hobart Hurricanes v Sydney Sixers *Live* From Blundstone Arena [s] Seven News At 5 [s] Sydney Weekender [s] Seven News [s] Program To Be Advised Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) [s] Movie: “Ford v Ferrari” (M) (’19) – American car designer Carroll Shelby and driver Ken Miles battle corporate interference and the laws of physics to build a revolutionary race car for Ford in order to defeat Ferrari at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1966. Stars: Matt Damon, Christian Bale The Blacklist (MA15+) [s]

6:00 7:00 10:00 11:00 11:30 12:00

Page 21 13 October 2021

SBS (C30)

Animal Tales (PG) [s] 6:00 Weekend Today [s] 6:30 Today Extra - Saturday (PG) 7:00 Rivals [s] 7:30 Surfing Australia TV [s] 8:00 Good Food Kitchen [s] My Way [s] 9:00 Travel Guides: New Zealand 9:30 12:00 (PG) [s] 1:00 Heart Of The Nation: The 2:00 World’s Largest CPR Class 2:30 (PG) [s] 3:00 Animal Embassy (PG) [s] 3:30 The Garden Gurus [s] 4:00 NINE News: First At Five [s] 4:30 Getaway (PG) [s] NINE News Saturday [s] 5:00 A Current Affair (PG) [s] Movie: “Bohemian Rhapsody” 6:00 7:30 (M) (’18) Stars: Rami Malek The Show Must Go On: The 8:30 Queen + Adam Lambert Story 10:30 (M l) [s] 11:30 Pearson: The Donor (M) [s] 12:30 Rivals [s] Explore [s] 1:30

Reel Action [s] Religious Programs [s] Healthy Homes [s] Escape Fishing With ET [s] Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures [s] Taste Of Australia [s] Studio 10 Saturday (PG) [s] The Living Room [s] The Dog House UK (PG) [s] Australia By Design [s] My Market Kitchen [s] What’s Up Down Under [s] Everyday Gourmet [s] Farm To Fork (PG) [s] Taste Of Australia With Hayden Quinn [s] 10 News First [s] Making It Australia [s] Program To Be Advised Ambulance UK (M d) [s] Program To Be Advised Program To Be Advised NCIS: Los Angeles: Cash Flow (M v) [s] Home Shopping

5:30 Worldwatch 1:00 PBS Newshour 2:00 Destination Flavour Japan Bitesize 2:15 Happy Birthday Hubble (PG) 3:25 Uncovering France’s Roman City: Nemausus - An Open Air Roman Museum (PG) (In English/ French) 4:30 Five Billion Pound Super Sewer (PG) 5:40 The Buildings That Fought Hitler (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:35 Celebrity Letters And Numbers (M) 8:35 Dambusters With Dan Snow (PG) 9:30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) 11:20 Movie: “Transit” (M l) (’18) Stars: Franz Rogowski, Paula Beer (In German/ French) 1:15 Movie: “Destroyer” (MA15+) (’18) Stars: Nicole Kidman, Toby Kebbell, Tatiana Maslany

6:00 8:00 8:30 9:00 9:30 12:00 1:10 1:30 2:00

12:40 1:05

Animal Tales (PG) [s] Weekend Today [s] Sports Sunday (PG) [s] The Xtreme CollXtion (PG) [s] Fishing Australia (PG) [s] Ocean Thunder Surf Boat Series [s] Movie: “I.Q.” (G) (’94) Stars: Meg Ryan, Tim Robbins The Block: Backyard Week (PG) [s] NINE News: First At Five [s] RBT: Speedy Chef (PG) [s] NINE News Sunday [s] The Block: Backyards Reveal (PG) [s] 60 Minutes (M) [s] NINE News Late [s] The First 48: Night Run (M) [s] Cold Case - New Leads Wanted: Kayo Matsuzawa (MA15+) [s] Chicago Med: Be My Better Half (M mp) [s] The Garden Gurus [s] The Xtreme CollXtion (PG) [s]

Religious Programs [s] Roads Less Travelled [s] Waltzing Jimeoin (PG) [s] Destination Dessert (PG) [s] Studio 10 Sunday (PG) [s] Program To Be Advised Farm To Fork [s] Healthy Homes Australia [s] Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield [s] My Market Kitchen [s] Good Chef Bad Chef [s] Roads Less Travelled [s] Waltzing Jimeoin (PG) [s] Taste Of Australia With Hayden Quinn [s] 10 News First [s] The Sunday Project (PG) [s] Celebrity MasterChef (PG) [s] CSI: Vegas: Honeymoon In Vegas (M) [s] FBI: Trauma (M) [s] The Sunday Project (PG) [s] Home Shopping CBS Mornings [s]

5:30 Worldwatch 1:00 Speedweek 3:00 Cycling: Cycling: The Women’s Tour (UK) 4:00 The Unsung Heroes Of Apollo 11 (PG) 5:35 The Buildings That Fought Hitler (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Inside Central Station: After Dark (M) 8:30 Our African Roots: Australia Uncovered (PG) 9:30 Life Of Earth From Space 10:25 Love Me As I Am: Untold Australia (PG) 11:25 How ‘Mad’ Are You? (M l) 12:30 24 Hours In Emergency: The Extra Mile (M) 1:25 Movie: “Ghosthunter” (M l) (’16) Director: Ben Hunter 3:10 Cocaine - Living With The Cartels (MA15+) 4:05 Huang’s World (M l,s) 4:50 Destination Flavour Singapore Bitesize

6:00 News Breakfast [s] 9:00 ABC News Mornings [s] 11:30 Landline [s] 12:00 Restoration Australia [s] ABC News At Noon [s] Grantchester (PG) [s] Parliament Question Time [s] ABC News Afternoons [s] Escape From The City (PG) Grand Designs Australia (PG) 2:00 The Drum [s] 3:00 ABC News [s] 4:00 7.30 [s] Australian Story [s] 5:00 Four Corners [s] 6:00 Media Watch (PG) [s] 7:00 China Tonight [s] 7:30 Road To Now: In Harm’s Way 9:00 (M v) [s] ABC Late News [s] The Business [s] Step Into Paradise [s] Parliament Question Time [s] 11:30 We Hunt Together (MA15+) [s] rage (MA15+) [s] 12:00 The Drum [s] 1:00

Sunrise [s] 6:00 The Morning Show [s] 9:00 Seven Morning News [s] 11:30 Movie: “Murdered At 17” (M v) 12:00 (’18) Stars: Susan Walters, Cristine Prosperi, Blake Burt, 1:30 Emily Galley, Blake Canning, 2:00 Benedicte Belizaire, Mike 3:00 Stechyson, Tomas Chovanec 4:00 The Real Manhunter: The 5:00 Murder Of Clare Bernal (M) [s] 6:00 The Chase UK (PG) [s] 7:00 Seven News At 4 [s] 7:30 The Chase Australia (PG) [s] Seven News [s] Home And Away (PG) [s] Program To Be Advised Movie: “Anna” (MA15+) (’19) 8:45 Stars: Sasha Luss, Helen 9:45 Mirren, Alex Tchenkov, Cillian 9:45 Murphy, Lera Abova, Alexander 10:55 Petrov, Nikita Pavlenko 11:25 The Goldbergs: The Prettiest Boy In School (PG) [s] 12:15 God Friended Me: Joy (PG) [s] 1:10 Home Shopping 1:30

Today [s] Today Extra (PG) [s] NINE’s Morning News [s] The Block: Backyards Reveal (PG) [s] Getaway (PG) [s] Pointless (PG) [s] Tipping Point (PG) [s] NINE’s Afternoon News [s] Millionaire Hot Seat [s] NINE News [s] A Current Affair (PG) [s] The Block: Garage, Study And Wine Cellar Week (PG) [s] – Frosty relationships cause one team to refuse to enter another team’s house. Love Island Australia (M) [s] Kath & Kim: Fat (PG) [s] Kath & Kim: Old (PG) [s] NINE News Late [s] New Amsterdam: Every Last Minute (M) [s] Tipping Point (PG) [s] A Current Affair (PG) [s] Home Shopping

6:00 The Talk [s] 7:00 Judge Judy (PG) [s] 7:30 The Bold And The Beautiful (PG) [s] 8:00 Studio 10 (PG) [s] 12:00 Dr Phil (M) [s] 1:00 Program To Be Advised 2:30 Entertainment Tonight [s] 3:00 Judge Judy (PG) [s] 3:30 My Market Kitchen [s] 4:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield [s] 4:30 The Bold And The Beautiful (PG) [s] 5:00 10 News First [s] 6:30 The Project (PG) [s] 7:30 Celebrity MasterChef (PG) [s] 8:30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (MA15+) [s] 9:30 Just For Laughs Uncut (MA15+) [s] 10:00 Just For Laughs (MA15+) [s] 10:30 Program To Be Advised 11:30 The Project (PG) [s] 12:30 The Late Show (PG) [s] 1:30 Home Shopping

News Breakfast [s] 6:00 ABC News Mornings [s] 9:00 Four Corners [s] 11:30 Antiques Roadshow [s] 12:00 ABC News At Noon [s] Shetland (M l,v) [s] Parliament Question Time [s] 2:00 ABC News Afternoons [s] Escape From The City [s] Grand Designs Australia (PG) 3:00 The Drum [s] 4:00 ABC News [s] 5:00 7.30 [s] 6:00 The Greek Islands With Julia 7:00 Bradbury: Santorini [s] 7:30 Big Deal (M l) [s] 9:00 Bronwyn Oliver - The Shadows Within (PG) [s] 10:00 ABC Late News [s] The Business [s] Q&A [s] China Tonight [s] Parliament Question Time [s] 11:00 Midsomer Murders: Murder Of 11:30 Innocence (M v) [s] rage (MA15+) [s] 12:00

Sunrise [s] The Morning Show [s] Seven Morning News [s] Movie: “A Trick Of The Mind” (M v) (’06) Stars: Alexandra Holden, Paul Johansson The Real Manhunter: The Disappearance Of Maureen Hale (M v) [s] The Chase UK (PG) [s] Seven News At 4 [s] The Chase Australia (PG) [s] Seven News [s] Home And Away (PG) [s] Program To Be Advised Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera (M) [s] S.W.A.T.: Knockout (M v) [s] – Deacon’s second job working private security at a high-profile boxing match places the team in the middle of a kidnapping. The Latest Seven News [s] The Goldbergs: It’s All About Comptrol (M v) [s] The Real Dirty Dancing (PG)

Today [s] 6:00 Today Extra (PG) [s] 7:00 NINE’s Morning News [s] 7:30 The Block: Garage, Study And Wine Cellar Week (PG) [s] 8:00 Explore [s] 12:00 Good Food Kitchen [s] 1:00 Pointless (PG) [s] 2:00 Tipping Point (PG) [s] 2:30 NINE’s Afternoon News [s] 3:00 Millionaire Hot Seat [s] 3:30 NINE News [s] 4:00 A Current Affair (PG) [s] 4:30 The Block: Garage, Study And Wine Cellar Week (PG) [s] 5:00 Love Island Australia (M) [s] 6:30 Travel Guides: South Africa 7:30 (PG) [s] NINE News Late [s] 8:40 Reverie: Point Of Origin (M v) 9:35 [s] – With an upgrade set for launch, the team must deal with 10:35 embittered founder Oliver’s attempt to bring it all crashing 11:35 down. 12:35 Tipping Point (PG) [s] 1:30

Also see: ABC PLUS (Channel 22) ABC ME (Channel 23) ABC NEWS (Channel 24)

Also see: 7TWO (Channel 62) 7MATE (Channel 63) 7FLIX (Channel 66)

3:00 4:00 4:30 5:00 5:30 6:00 7:00 7:30 10:15 12:00 12:50 1:20

1:00 3:00 5:00 5:30 6:00 7:00 8:30 9:30 10:00 11:00 11:50

6:00 9:00 11:30 12:00 1:15 1:30 2:00 3:00 4:00 5:00 6:00 7:00 7:30 8:45 9:45 10:45 11:15

12:05

Also see: GEM (Channel 82) GO! (Channel 83/88) LIFE (Channel 84)

2:30 3:00 3:30 4:00 4:30 5:00 6:30 7:30 9:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 4:30

The Talk [s] Judge Judy (PG) [s] The Bold And The Beautiful (PG) [s] Studio 10 (PG) [s] Dr Phil (M) [s] Program To Be Advised Entertainment Tonight [s] Farm To Fork [s] Judge Judy (PG) [s] My Market Kitchen [s] Everyday Gourmet [s] The Bold And The Beautiful (PG) [s] 10 News First [s] The Project (PG) [s] The Dog House Australia (PG) [s] The Cheap Seats (M l) [s] NCIS: Los Angeles: Fukushu (M v) [s] NCIS: Los Angeles: Raising The Dead (M v) [s] The Project (PG) [s] The Late Show (PG) [s] Home Shopping

Also see: 10 PEACH (Channel 11) 10 BOLD (Channel 12)

Programming information correct at time of going to press, changes are at the network’s discretion Prepared by National Typesetting Services

5:30 Worldwatch 2:00 Inside Central Station: After Dark (M) 3:00 Where Are You Really From? (PG) 3:30 Destination Flavour Japan Bitesize 3:35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:05 The Supervet (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 The Queen At War (PG) 8:30 Saved By A Stranger (M) 9:35 24 Hours In Emergency: Blink Of An Eye (M) 10:30 SBS World News 11:00 Bosch (MA15+) 11:50 An Ordinary Woman (M l) (In Russian) 1:50 Deep State (MA15+) 3:50 Huang’s World (M l,v) 4:40 Destination Flavour Singapore Bitesize 5:30 Worldwatch 1:00 PBS Newshour 2:15 The Story Of The Songs: Aretha Franklin 3:10 Where Are You Really From? (PG) 3:40 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:10 Secrets Of The Queen’s Children (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Great Canadian Railroad Journeys: Vancouver Island To Kamloops (M) 8:30 Insight: Narcissism 9:30 Dateline: Sex, Drugs And Bad Tourists 10:00 The Feed 10:30 SBS World News 11:00 The Point 11:30 Before We Die (M d) (In Swedish) 12:40 The A Word (M l,s)

Also see: SBS VICELAND (Channel 31) SBS MOVIES (Channel 32) SBS FOOD (Channel 33) SBS NITV (Channel 34)

Page 22 13 October 2021

COAST COMMUNITY CHRONICLE - WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

CCN

NOT FOR PROFIT ORGANISATIONS

ARTS & CULTURE Toukley District Art Society

Painting, drawing groups and classes, demonstarations and workshops. Open 7 days 10am - 4pm, Cafe. Tues - drawing 10am - 1pm, Wed-painting 9:30am - 12:30pm

4392 4666

toukleyartgallery@gmail.com www.toukleyartgallery.com.au

Wyong Writers

4976 1642

0421 785 599

Lake Munmorah 50s Plus Leisure and Learning Club

Computer classes, dancing, exercise, pilates, yoga, craft, carpet bowls and Tai Chi.

4358 8390

Art society for artists painting in watercolour Workshops, beginners classes and paint outs Details on our website

ccwsinc@gmail.com www.centralcoastwatercolour.com.au

Wyong Drama Group

Meetings first Tuesday of month at Red Tree Theatre 160-162 Pacific Highway Tuggerah at 7.30pm. For productions: www.wyongdramagroup.com.au

General enquiries:

1300665600

COMMUNITY GROUPS Central Coast Caravanners Inc

3rd Sun - Jan to Nov Trips away, social outings, friendship with like minded folk Call Geoff 0447 882 150

Central Coast Community Legal Centre Not for profit service providing free legal advice. Mon - Fri 9am to 5pm

4353 4988

contact@centralcoastclc.org.au

The Creative Compassion Centre

Secondhand shopping, upcycling, minimalism, creativity, community lounge area, free Wifi. 5/22-32 Pacific Hwy Mon-Sat - 9am-4pm

0437 048 815

Country Women’s Association-Toukley

Mthly Market 2nd Sat 9am-3pm 175 Main Rd Books, bric-a-brac, cakes, Devonshire tea, handicrafts, plants, preserves, sausage sizzle, fun, fellowship, fundraising Meet 1st Wed 10am Hall available for hire.

Hearing loss management Support and educational groups All Welcome! Sundays - 8:30am, providing practical experience and confidence. 10:30am & 5pm, 4321 0275 Kids church, youth group, cafe, wheelchair friendly, Central Coast Prostate 6 Pioneer Ave, Tuggerah thelakes.net.au

Computer classes, line dancing, tai chi and zumba gold Mon - Fri, 9am to 3pm

4332 5522

RSL Pelican Day Club Killarney Vale

COMMUNITY CENTRES Berkeley Vale Neighbourhood Centre

Information and referral, energy account assistance, food assistance, no interest loans, computer, printing and internet access, kid’s school holiday activities, parenting program, workshops, drop-in centre, community garden, walking group.

4388 5801 or 0490 538 494 manager@bvnc.org.au https://bvnc.org.au

Friendly social club, various activities, occasional outings, bus pickup Wednesdays 9.30 - 1.30 Phone Betty on

4332 3789

Toukley Presbyterian Church

Hargraves St & Victoria Ave Family service (Sunday school 9.30am), cafe church 5pm, community activities

4392 9904 toukleypc.org.au

Venue for Hire

Central Coast Wetlands, Tuggerah - several buildings for hire, suitable for weddings, seminars, markets & fund raisers.

0408 271 957

pioneerdairy@bigpond.com

Volunteering Central Coast

Refer potential volunteers to community organisations and provide support to them. Training for volunteers and managers of volunteers. Information sessions

4329 7122

recruit@volcc.org.au

Wyong Toastmasters’ Club

Improve your public speaking, leadership skills & confidence. 1st, 3rd & 5th Fri 10:30am to 12:30pm Wyong RSL Club

0421 216 952

wyongtoastmasters@gmail.com

Wyong Uniting Church

Weekly Sunday Service 9am All welcome! Wheelchair and Walker accessible Bible Study group 62 Watanobbi Road, Wyong

Better Hearing Australia

The Lakes Church

4353 0977

Long Jetty Senior Citizens’ Club

Writers meet monthly to 4332 5522 encourage and develop their writing skills.We meet on the 4th Long Jetty Over Saturday of each month – arrive 50s Club at 1.15pm for a 1.30 start. Indoor Bowls, Table Tennis, Yoga Woodbury Community Centre , Computer lessons, exercise 1 Woolmers Cres, Mardi. classes, Tai Chi, Zumba Gold 4333 7489 and much more. meilingvenning@hotmail.com Free WI FI - 9am to 3 pm www.wyongwriters.org

Central Coast Watercolour Society

wyonguca@gmail.com www.wyong.uca.org.au

Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre

The revamped CCMDC is open. Schools and Group bookings welcome by appointment. Building has special needs access and toilets. Open 7 days 9am – 3pm. Terrigal.

4385 5027

ccmdc@bigpond.com www.ccmdc.org.au

Toukley Neighbourhood Centre Do you have a caring heart and time to visit a resident in an aged care facility? Volunteering is a worthwhile and rewarding opportunity.

4396 1555

Wyong Neighbourhood Centre

Supporting disadvantaged, vulnerable and isolated people offering- community services, events, projects, workshops, arts programs. Open community garden.

4353 1750

HEALTH GROUPS Alcoholics Anonymous - Someone cares. Wed-Thurs-Fri - 12.30pm, Progress Hall Henry Parry & Wells Street East Gosford Central Coast Asbestos Diseases Support Group

Support for those suffering with asbestos diseases and others interested in asbestos issues. You are not alone, meet with others who can share their experiences. Bring a family member or friend. 1pm at Ourimbah RSL on fourth Wed of each month. Maree 0419 418 190

Cancer Support Group (Wyong)

Last Fri, Terrigal Uniting Church 380 Terrigal Dr, Terrigal 9.30am to 12 noon

4367 9600 www.pcfa.org.au

Grow Mental Health Support

Small friendly groups formed to learn how to overcome anxiety, depression and loneliness and improve mental health and well being. Weekly meetings at Woy Woy and Wyong. Grow is anonymous, free and open to all.

1800 558 268

at Parkview room Central Coast Leagues Club

0431 225 489

POLITICAL GROUPS Labor Party Ourimbah / Narara Branch

Discussion/action - community Issues - 3 levels of Government, Ourimbah Room Ourimbah RSL, 7.00pm - 1st. Monday

0410 309 494

kyle.macgregor@hotmail.com

Central Coast Greens

Local, state wide, national & international issues & campaigns Council and parliamentary representation - 3rd Thur centralcoast.nsw.greens.org.au centralcoastgreens@gmail.com

Liberal Party Ourimbah Branch How good is this? 2nd Thurs

or www.grow.org.au

0468 476 237

S.A

PROBUS CLUBS

Is Internet porn destroying your life. We may be able to help. We are a 12 step fellowship like AA. Meets every Sat at 7pm on the Central Coast Contact for further details

0473 631 439

newcastlesagroup@gmail.com

The Entrance Probus Club

Ladies and gentlemen welcome. Guest speakers, morning tea and many activities. 9.30am 4th Tues Bateau Bay Bowling Club

0478 228 914

HISTORY GROUPS Museum & Historical Society, Wyong District Groups/schools welcome Morning tea/lunch for group bookings, wheelchair friendly, Alison Homestead 1 Cape Rd, Wyong Sun-Thur 10am-2pm

4352 1886

www.alisonhomestead.com.au

Wyong Family History Group Inc.

Interested in researching your family history in Australia and overseas? Come along and learn how. Building 9/6 Rankens Court, Wyong. Tues - Thurs at 10am - 3pm. Bookings essential

4351 2211

secwfhg2@westnet.com.au

MUSIC Coastal a Cappella

Award winning women’s a cappella chorus. Music education provided. Rehearsals Tuesday 7pm @ Red Tree Theatre Tuggerah. Performance opportunities. Hire us for your next event.

0412 948 450

coastalacappella@gmail.com

Soundwaves chorus Male singers wanted No experience required, rehearsals 7pm Mondays

Wyong Probus Club

Wyong Golf Club, 4th Mon, Morning Tea, Guest Speakers, regular monthly outings

4352 3692

probuswyong55090@gmail.com

SERVICE GROUPS

50 years supporting local activities - Meet new friends 4th Tues 6:30pm Don Small / Lions Retirement Village Colin 0413 014 266 www.wyong.nsw.lions.org.au

SPECIAL INTEREST Biz Plus Networking Association

Grow your business & build worthwhile relationships. Networking breakfasts every Thur 7:15- 9am Erina Leagues Club Geoff Neilson network@bizplus.com.au

Central Coast Budgerigar

Central Coast Budgie Club, meets 2nd Tues of the month at Tuggerah Hall - 7:30pm talking about breeding budgies Contact David 0466 267 573 Wendy 0431 398 778

Tuggerah Lakes U3A The Entrance - cryptic

crosswords, play reading Bateau Bay - Memoirs, Reading Group - Killarney Vale - Talks, Mah Jong - Toukley - Creative Writing - Berkley Vale - Music appreciation - Chittaway Bay Movies

4390 2451

www.tugglakesu3a.info

SPORT KI-DO Mingara Judo Academy

Junior boys and girls Mon and Wed Two classes 6-8.30pm from 7yrs, Kangy Angy

0413 237 010

www.kidomingarajudo.com.au

Inner Wheel Club Wyong Inc

Wyong Lakes Australian

2755

play@wyonglakesafc.com.au

Join a team of dedicated Rules Football Club women, sharing fun and Play AFL - Teams for Boys, Girls, friendship and a passion for Women & Men. community service 10am 3rd No Experience Necessary Wed at Wyong Golf Club 4393 0404 257 702 iiw.au.wyong@gmail.com

The Lions Club of The Entrance Serve your community make friends, join Lions. 1st and 3rd Wed, North Entrance Surf Club. The Entrance Markets Sun Mornings, behind The Entrance Cinema.

0488 286 006

theentrancelions@gmail.com

The Lions Club of Gwandalan

Join the Lions, make friends and help your local community Sat Garage Sales and BBQ 7 to 11.30am

4972 5562

secgwandalanlions@gmail.com

The Lions Club of Wyong

Canton Beach Sports Club Lawn Bowls

Come and join us at Canton Beach Sports Club, every Tues - 9:30am. Never played before, don’t worry, all levels welcome. Free coaching available. go on, give us a call on 0415 210 536 for Chris, or 0409 292 086 for Lorraine.

VENUE HIRE

Central Coast Wetlands – Pioneer Dairy Central Coast Wetlands is located in Tuggerah. We have several buildings for hire. They would be suitable for weddings, seminars, markets & fund raisers.

0408 271 957

pioneerdairy@bigpond.com

Newspapers Central Coast

CCN

If you would like your Community Organisation listed here call us on 4325 7369 or see www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

Entries in the Not For Profit Community Organisations Directory are free. However, we require each organisation to subscribe to each newspaper to ensure that someone from that organisation keeps their entry up to date. Subscription rates $75 for 25 editions.

Page23

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU - COAST COMMUNITY CHRONICLE 13 October 2021 60. Fleur-de-lis ACROSS 62. Distribution centre 65. Cruel person 1. Notebooks 67. Cunning 4. Flower-shaped award 69. Move shoulders 8. Mountain goat 70. Eyelid inflammations 11. Pushes for 72. Crib 13. Salivate 73. Wooden box 15. Belonging to them 75. Indian city, New ... 17. Likely touchdown 77. Guys time (1,1,1) 79. Disentangle 18. Tropical jelly-making fruit 81. Enraged 20. Even so 82. Common-law spouse, de ... 21. First Greek letter 24. Linger (on) 84. Register 27. Asian sauce 85. Coffee, ... latte 28. Apart (from) 86. Divide (of road) 30. Instruct 87. Flavour concentrate 31. Storey 88. Period (of office) 33. Taunts 34. Ten years DOWN 35. This place 36. Garden seat timber 1. Compassion 39. Excavating 2. Musical pairs 42. Book of maps 3. Ceylon, ... Lanka 44. Tricks 4. Invitation footnote 45. Distance around belly (1,1,1,1) 46. Bladders 5. Cusses 48. Baggy 6. Swapped 49. Explosion 7. Blade’s cutting side 50. Perused 8. I owe you (1,1,1) 52. Half-hearted 9. Unconcerned (response) 10. Bone photo (1-3) 54. Scourge with whip 12. Rank 55. Tibetan priests 14. Gazed lecherously at 56. Vocation in each letter of the alphabet once only. 16. Haul 57. Top

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PUZZLES

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MISSING LINK Fill in each letter of the alphabet once only.

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LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS Missing Link Solution: Missing Link Solution:

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OUT & ABOUT

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DOWN IN THE GARDEN: Growing Mulberries

Fruit and Narara Valley Nursery had lots of mulberry trees ready for purchase and you might want to check in with your local garden centre as well. daleysfruit.com.au; nararavalley. com.au GARDENING BOOK REVIEW Tomato, Know, Sow, Grow, Feast by Penny Woodward, Janice Sutton, Karen Sutherland, Hyland House Publishing Manna Trading ISBN: 9780646982748

CHERALYN DARCEY

Like many of us, I have happy memories of a mulberry tree in my childhood. This one stood in the centre of the playground at Orange Grove Primary School in the Inner West of Sydney. From spring through to summer, we would eagerly await the end of the day bell and make a beeline for the lower branches to fill ourselves with its juicy berries and risk the wrath of Mum with our stained uniforms. For many of us mulberries mean the simplicity of being a kid, laughter filled playgrounds, climbing trees and that summer was on its way. Growing Mulberry Trees These trees are deciduous which means they will lose their leaves in winter and that makes them perfect for those seeking summer shade and winter sun. They are remarkably hardy, long lived and don’t generally suffer from pests or diseases. Should you grow one from seed the tree you will most likely end up with will be either male or female but mulberries are either male, female or bisexual. Those sold in garden centres will be bisexual or self-pollinating but do check just in case. Mulberries bloom and then fruit in early spring and you will usually find that this can occur as early as the second year of growth. Although they can tolerate a range of conditions, they fruit best in a rich soil that is free draining with protection from strong winds and a position that is drenched in full sun. They will also prefer space with about five metres between them and competing plants. Feeding is not a priority, and they are drought tolerant but do benefit from occasional deep watering and will need additional water during the hottest times of summer. Prune to eliminate overcrowding and dead branches when dormant. More suited for Australian temperate areas, like the Central Coast, is the Black Mulberry (Morus nigra) and the berries of this species are by far the sweetest. Also available are Red Mulberry (Morus rubra) and White Mulberry (Morus alba tatarica). There are many cultivars on the market, and you are sure to find one to suit your needs, just have a chat with your friendly local nursey person. Mulberries have a long fruiting season that lasts from early spring through

summer and unlike many other plants, will fruit continuously. Dwarf Mulberries This would have to be my pick of the bunch. Not everyone wants or can even accommodate a massive tree that can live for hundreds of years like the mulberry, so a great solution is the Dwarf Mulberry. There are lots of cultivars that have been bred to grow in dwarf size and some can even be trained to successfully grow in larger containers if you prune after fruiting. I have one in the ground in my vegetable garden that has attained a height of about five metres in only two

years and am enjoying the most succulent sweet berries at this moment. This is usually at the upper end of the height of the dwarf mulberry, but they are easily pruned to limit size. I’ve found my Dwarf Mulberry to be almost ‘set and forget’. Mulberry Tips and Facts The reason you do not see mulberries for sale commercially, aside from perhaps farmers markets, is that they do not travel or store well. To remove a mulberry stain rub it with an unripe mulberry. Other methods include drenching it with boiling milk and to attack old stains, soak in equal parts glycerine and

warm water. The easiest way to collect ripe mulberries it to lay a tarp under the tree and shake the branches every few days. Leave the tarp in place to catch fallen berries during heavy fruiting periods. Silkworms prefer the White Mulberry and while they will eat the leaves of other mulberries, they will not eat the leaves of any other plant. Resources If you have a mulberry tree you might want to raise some silkworms. Everything Silkworks has everything you need! everythingsilkworns.com. au. As of publication Bunnings, Daley’s

YOU & YOUR GARDEN: Martin, Blue Bay

Martin is looking for a deciduous tree with a preference for a native species. He did have a long list of preferences as well, but in nature, like buying a house, you will find there needs to be a compromise unless you are building it entirely yourself. He was wanting a tree that would grow between six to eight metres with a lot of other requirements in colour, branch structure and form and while I really can’t define a single tree to match all of these requirements, his first suggestion of the White Crepe Myrtle cultivar Natchez, (Lagerstroemia indica x fauriei ‘Natchez’) would be ideal. This will not be a fast-growing tree, as Martin wants, but the wait will be worth it as is does have the ‘wow’ factor he is after. The leaves have comforting warm tones though autumn before falling in the winter and the tree itself is easy to shape with careful pruning which is something important to Martin.

This is a brilliant homegrown gardening book that takes readers through the history and science of the tomato, including heirlooms varieties. It features a huge amount of gardening information that will be invaluable for novices to the more experienced. Tomato lovers are rewarded with a valuable gardening book and a huge cooking section featuring over 60 recipes by leading Australian chefs and cooks such as Maggie Beer, Stephanie Alexander, and Peter Gilmore. You will never need another tomato guide, this truly has it all and is written in Australia, so the information is local as well as plentiful. TASKS & TIPS FOR YOU THIS WEEK It’s repotting time for most houseplants. Select a pot slightly larger than the old one and be ready with the best quality and plant appropriate potting mix. Gently turn out the old plant and then trim old, dead, and overgrown roots. Soak the root ball in a bucket of water with a seaweed solution added and then gently replant into its new home. This week, you could plant nearly every herb you can imagine along with cape gooseberry, capsicum, beetroot, climbing and dwarf beans, cabbage, carrot, celery, chicory, choko, cress, cucumbers, eggplants, endive, melons, squashes, lettuce, spring onions, parsnip, peas, potatoes, radish, rhubarb crowns, salsify, silverbeet, sweet corn, ageratum, alyssum, amaranthus, aster, California poppy, carnation, celosia, celosia, cosmos, dianthus, everlasting daisies, gazania, gerbera, gypsophila, impatiens, marigold, nasturtiums, petunia, phlox, salvia, zinnia, kangaroo paw, sunflower, snapdragon, salvia. Cheralyn Darcey is a gardening author, community garden coordinator and along with Pete Little, hosts ‘At Home with The Gardening Gang’ 8 10am every Saturday on CoastFM963. She is also co-host of @ MostlyAboutPlants a weekly gardening podcast with Vicki White. Send your gardening questions, events, and news to: gardeningcentralcoast@gmail.com

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OUT & ABOUT

Venues can express interest in live music initiative The Great Southern Nights government initiative running from March 18 to April 22, is currently open for expressions of interest as the end of lockdown heralds the hotly anticipated return of live music. Manager for many big Australian acts such as The Rubens, Greg Carey, said he welcomed this initiative as a way to foster local talent and help businesses recover with grants now available. “Great Southern Nights is a

great initiative to create activations for artists and businesses to get back out there after a really tough 18-month period. “It is so important to have this to allow venues to keep the lights on and have live music return. It is also important for the local economy because what live music does is that it has a trickle effect for nearby restaurants and bars as people usually go out with a bunch of friends to experience live music and spend,” Carey said.

In November 2020, Great Southern Nights saw several events performed on the Central Coast and the 2022 lineup already includes ARIA award winning indie pop artist Amy Shark, and rapper Baker Boy alongside other big names including Jessica Mauboy, Jimmy Barnes, Missy Higgins and DJ duo, Peking Duk. Local musicians who want to take part can lodge Expressions of Interest online at greatsouthernnights.com.au/ Harry Mulholland

ARIA award winning indie pop artist, Amy Shark

$500,000 paid forward for children’s charities Staff (and animals) at the Australian Reptile Park are celebrating reopening to visitors this week after a four-month COVID lockdown. During lockdown, staff were kept busy with tending to animals, upgrading exhibits and facilities and participating in popular live streams on social media. The livestreams featured some of the Australian Reptile Park’s super star animals such as Hugo the tortoise, Elvis the crocodile and Kraken the Komodo dragon and were

CCN

Tokyo Junkie: 60 Years of Bright Lights and Back Alleys… and Baseball Author: Robert Whiting Publisher: Stone Bridge Press

I have never been to Japan, but it is the one place I would love to go. I find the culture fascinating and the food is my favourite. When I found the book Tokyo Junkie, I focused on that part of the title and didn’t focus on the other part with the words… and Baseball. I probably should have. I have never heard of Robert Whiting before, but he has written three other books, two based on baseball, The Chrysanthemum and the Bat and You Gotta Have Wa and one

viewed over two million times. During lockdown the Australian Reptile Park ran a successful “Pay Discover Forward” campaign where NSW residents could “pay it forward’ with their Discover NSW Vouchers and the Australian Reptile Park donated a double pass to a selected children’s charity on their behalf. More than $500,000 worth of tickets have already been committed to be donated to the partner charities. The Park’s campaign will be continuing until the end of the

NSW Government’s Dine & Discover program on June 30, 2022. Director, Tim Faulkner, said keeping people connected with nature during lockdown was important. “We wanted to keep the world up-to-date with our incredible animals and the amazing work our keepers do – it never stops,” he said. “With ample space for social distancing, the Australian Reptile Park is one of the safest places families can visit now COVID-19 restrictions have eased.”

The Australian Reptile Park is the Central Coast’s premier animal attraction with a colourful 60-year history. The Park was named NSW Best Tourist Attraction in 2019 and is open daily from 9am to 5pm, with complimentary parking and barbecue facilities. The Australian Reptile Park is currently accepting the NSW Government’s Dine & Discover Vouchers until the end of June 2022. Source: Media release, Oct 11 Australian Reptile Park

BOOK REVIEW book on the Japanese crime gangs, Tokyo Underworld. You gotta have cojones to write a book like that. Robert Whiting was introduced to Tokyo in 1962 when he was a 19-year-old GI from a small town in California. Japan at that time was “still struggling to recover from the damage of defeat in World War 2.” But the city was hosting the 1964 Olympics and construction was going full tilt. Whiting says, “I had arrived at what someone would later describe the biggest construction site in the world.” The Olympics was a huge success and Life magazine called it “the Greatest Olympic Games ever.” Sound familiar? Whiting’s military service was coming to an end and he had decisions to make but he also

felt a shift in the mood of the city. There was a resentment towards foreigners, “too many gaijin”. But this did not deter Whiting who decided to stay. He enrolled at Sophia University and lived small Japanese unit without heat or hot water. He knew Tokyo was going to be “a force to be reckoned

with”. He had a job as an English tutor, worked for Encyclopedia Britannica (for you youngsters they are books people used to get information, before there was Google) before becoming an author. He moved to New York for a while but found it “Less Breakfast at Tiffany’s and more Midnight Cowboy.” He wrote about Japanese

baseball and met many of the American players that went to Japan to play. He met his wife who worked for the UN and had to travel around the world but he always ended up back in Tokyo. On his seventy-seventh birthday he reflected on the changes he had seen in Tokyo in the past fifty years and “that there is very little left in Tokyo older than I am, given how this city keeps on renewing itself.” This book does not glorify Tokyo at all. Besides traffic, bureaucracy, gender-equality, “questions about press freedom, rampant cronyism in politics, and a government that is all too often enmeshed in scandal.” Although I wasn’t keen on all the baseball references, as I am not a fan, I did find the politics of it interesting. In Japan, politics and sport surely do mix it seems.

The descriptions of the Tokyo underworld were also fascinating – this guy has met some interesting characters. The story chronicles both Whitings personal changes since arriving as a 19 year old in concert with the broader transformation that the city of Tokyo since the early 1960s. He recounts the preparation of two Olympic games with great insights. I have to say it was difficult to reconcile my idea of what Tokyo is today to the one Whiting moved to in the 1960’s, which was “rat-infested … 40 percent of Japanese had tapeworms … no ambulances, and infant mortality was twenty times what it is today.” What a transformation. Well worth the read. Kim Reardon The Reluctant Book Critic

BUSINESS & PROPERTY

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Business & Property SpotGo takes out Business of the Year award

Local manufacturer SpotGo has been crowned Central Coast Business of the Year. The cleaning products company based at Jilliby also took out the Excellence in Innovation award at the Business NSW 2021 Central Coast Business Awards held online on Friday, October 8, in front of more than 150 business leaders. “The awards took time to celebrate the success of hardworking Central Coast businesses,” said Business NSW Regional Director, Paula Martin. “A well deserved spotlight was shone on 52 finalists who have shown how their resilience, perseverance and sheer hard work have seen them through the very difficult year we have just had. “The 2021 Central Coast Business Awards recognise growth, entrepreneurship and celebrate business success and resilience. “We received nearly 100 applications for 10 different categories.

The crew from SpotGo – Business of the Year

“These awards are a wonderful opportunity to showcase the ingenuity, strength and resilience of Central Coast businesses,” Martin said. “The past few years have been incredibly tough as businesses have been impacted by bushfires, floods

and now COVID. “When we launched these awards earlier in the year, we hadn’t expected we would be dealing with the current lockdown but, like our business members, we too pivoted and delivered a gala event with as much glitz and glamour but safe for all our community.”

With the support of Platinum Sponsor NBN Co and Premium Partner the University of Newcastle, Business NSW hand-delivered a full celebratory experience straight to finalist and guest homes to enjoy while they watched the livestream of the event, with family, staff and friends all joining in.

Winners of the 2021 Central coast Business Awards will now represent the region at the State Business Awards to be held in November. “Based on the calibre of this year’s finalists, I expect that our regional winners will again do very well at the State Business Awards,” Martin said.

Central Coast award winners are: Employer of Choice – Ryan & Seton Lawyers. Outstanding Young Business Leader – Amanda Woodbine of Australian Reptile Park. Outstanding Business Leader – Tim Faulkner of Australian Reptile Park. Excellence in Micro Business – LEP Digital. Excellence in Small Business – Riverside Dental Spa. Excellence in Business – Australian Reptile Park; Highly Commended, Industree Group. Excellence in Innovation – SpotGo Premium Cleaning Products; Highly commended, Naughty Noodle Fun Haus Inc. Outstanding Community Organisation – The Glen. Outstanding Start-up – Amelio Health; Highly commended, Ducks Nuts Co. Outstanding Employee – Zac Bower of Australian Reptile Park. Source: Business NSW Central Coast

Real estate agents fined for non-compliance A specialised operation run by NSW Fair Trading has led to disciplinary action being taken against two local real estate agents. Healy Enterprises Pty Limited at The Entrance and Ideas@ Work Pty Ltd at Dooralong are among 20 realtors in NSW disciplined in a compliance crackdown. Eight real estate agent licences were cancelled and Fair Trading issued $173,500

in penalties for failure to comply with strict rules around trust accounts. NSW Fair Trading Executive Director of Investigations and Enforcement, Valerie Griswold, said the operation targeted real estate agents who failed to lodge their trust account audits for 2019/20. “Trust accounts consist of funds belonging 100 per cent to consumers so it’s critical the agents managing them stick to the rules,” she said.

“Fair Trading takes this incredibly seriously and these 20 agents were each fined sums of $11,000, eight had their licences cancelled, and nine are currently disqualified from being involved in the direction, management or conduct of the business of a licensee until the outstanding trust account audits are returned.” Griswold said failure to lodge an audit is a stand-alone offence and a major red flag as

it could indicate agents might have something to hide. “Trust account fraud is the number one offence real estate agents are prosecuted for in NSW,” she said. “In the past we’ve seen real estate agents using trust account funds for gambling, alcohol and drugs – in some cases spending hundred of thousands of dollars. “We’re not talking about small amounts here – these 20 agents alone held a combine

total of $2.95M in their trust accounts, and it is crucial this money is being handled correctly at all times.” The compliance operation was carried out by Fair Trading’s Consumer, Building and Property Unit, which worked swiftly in conjunction with Fair Trading’s Disciplinary Action Unit in addressing noncompliance. Apart from the two Central Coast real estate agents to be disciplined, the other 18 are

from various suburbs in the Greater Sydney region. There are currently no allegations that the 20 real estate agents have engaged in fraud. Appropriate regulatory action is still being considered against 35 additional real estate agents who returned their trust account audits late. Source: NSW Department of Customer Service

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BUSINESS & PROPERTY

Wyong one of top property growth markets on NSW coast Median house prices in the north of the Central Coast continue to grow steadily, with a 16.7 per cent increase in Wyong since September, 2020, a new report has found. Despite a decline in the number of new listings, monthly sales volumes keep growing and rentals are seeing higher demand. The Market Pressure Review Report by data-driven buyer’s agency InvestorKit analysed eight regions along the northern NSW coast including Gosford, Wyong, Lake Macquarie East, Newcastle, Port Stephens, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, and Richmond Valley Coastal, using pressure indicators to demonstrate changes in sales, rental prices and stock levels. Market pressure indicators refer to median price, sale days on the market, monthly listings, monthly sale volume, vendor discounting, vacancy rates, rents and yields. The higher the market pressure, the greater the short-term capital growth

and rental price growth. With total monthly listings declining 38 per cent over the 12 months to the end of July 2021, the number of days a property has been on the market fell significantly, the report found. Monthly sales volumes continued to grow across the eight regions, with Gosford

(31.3 per cent) and Wyong (25.3 per cent) the best performers. The report found a 40.3 per cent reduction in the average number of days for sale on the market in Wyong. With vacancy rates sitting at a very low 0.3 per cent, the Wyong area is facing a rental crisis, the report sad.

During early 2021, Wyong saw a rise in median rents due to market pressure. InvestorKit founder, Arjun Paliwal, said property market pressure for the NSW northern coastal markets is currently some of the highest in the country. “(This is) good news for those already in the market

but problematic for prospective buyers due to the extremely high competition,” he said. “Rental data in the NSW North Coast is reflecting similar intense market pressures. “Among those renting, we can expect to see a surge in rental pricing and demand,

which is already sitting at crisis levels. “Investors can expect a healthy gross rental yield for most of the coastal cities of around 4 per cent, but this will fall closer to the major hubs of Sydney. “There are many factors contributing to this market pressure, including historically low cash rates, greater access to credits and owner-occupier finance take up, localised job market strengths and recovery, government spending/ stimulus, higher household savings ratios, flexibility of working from home, years of low investor activity reducing supply, and changing lifestyle preferences. “We expect that market pressure over the next 12 months will remain intense, sales and rental pricing will continue to surge, and the north coast regions will continue to outperform our capital cities over 2022.” Source: Media release, Oct 6 InvestorKit

Local support for new hardship panel A new Hardship Review Panel established to consider financial support for businesses experiencing financial hardship that do not qualify for COVID-19 support measures has received the tick of approval from Business NSW Central Coast. The panel will assess on a case-by-case basis businesses which did not meet the eligibility requirements for the 2021 COVID-19 Business Grant, Micro-business Grant and JobSaver payments.

“COVID-19 has affected so many businesses in NSW and even though we have a number of support measures in place, there are still some businesses under severe financial strain that aren’t eligible for assistance for a number of reasons,” Minister for Finance and Small Business, Damien Tudehope, said. “We want to plug that gap as much as we can.” The panel will include representatives from Revenue NSW, NSW Treasury and Service NSW and will make recommendations on businesses’ eligibility for

relevant support payments and grants. It will consider a broad range of factors in determining whether a business has experienced financial hardship, with the Chief Commissioner of Revenue NSW to make the final determination for applications. Factors that the hardship Business NSW Regional Manager, Paula Martin

panel will consider include whether the business is an employer, in a highly impacted industry, in an LGA

of concern or has unavoidable costs for which no other support is available. Martin said the move would be embraced by businesses across the region. “This is an important initiative and one Business NSW is more than happy to support,” Martin said. “I have definitely been getting concerned calls from within the business community that some might ‘fall through the cracks’ when it comes to the support packages. “Establishing a panel to assess each case that doesn’t

automatically fit the criteria gives business the confidence to put their case forward. “The pandemic has shown that different industries have been impacted in different ways, and different parts of the state have been impacted at different times. “The Panel will be able to take a holistic view of the specific circumstances of each individual application. “As parts of the state are now reopened, it’s important to understand that not all industries and regions will bounce back immediately, especially those that rely on international visitors for

much of their business. “The Government has shown it will engage with businesses who have had a grant application rejected or thought the process too difficult. “The message is clear: ask the question as you may find there is support available to you.” For more information and to apply for a hardship grant – go to: https://www.service. nsw.gov.au/transaction/ apply-covid-19-businesssupport-hardship-review. Terry Collins

Women asked to complete business survey Women who own and lead businesses are being asked to share their experiences in a bid to support and encourage female entrepreneurship. The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman has

released a survey aimed at identifying any unique challenges and opportunities faced by women who own and lead businesses. The findings will be used to consider how the best possible environment for women to start, grow and run

a business in Australia can be created. “More than 97 per cent of businesses owned and led by women are small businesses, and small business is the lifeblood of our economy,” Ombudsman Bruce Billson said.

He said research in the Empowering Women Innovation Leaders in Australia and Southeast Asia – Women in Leadership Report found that women entrepreneurs could contribute between $71B to $135B to the Australian

economy and up to $7T globally. “I encourage women business owners and operators to complete the survey so we can harness opportunities and look at how to address any needless headwinds or obstacles to

their success,” Billson said. The confidential survey is open until October 19 and can be found at the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman website, asbfeo.gov.au Source: ASBFEO

Page 28 13 October 2021

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CREATING FINANCIAL FREEDOM

ATO puts new investors on notice WITH

Julia NEWBOULD Managing Editor • Money magazine

New investors should be on notice as they prepare to lodge their first tax return since investing, the tax office has warned. ATO Assistant Commissioner Tim Loh has called on first-time investors to keep detailed records and understand the tax implications of their trades in order to avoid penalties. EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS (ETFs) Providers of ETFs, which are gaining popularity among novice investors, will provide their unit holders with a Standard Distribution Statement (SDS). When the investor sells units, the SDS will reflect the capital gains or losses made

from the sale of the units, and this needs to be included in the tax return. DIVIDENDS ETFs often distribute unit holders with dividend distributions, which can be reinvested or withdrawn for cash. Either way, the dividends are still considered income and therefore need to be declared to the ATO. “Most people recognise that they must pay tax on any money earned from selling shares. But many don’t realise that tax also applies to dividends and distributions, even if they are automatically reinvested into a reinvestment plan,” says Loh. PAPER LOSSES Sales of shares will incur either

a capital gain or loss, and this needs to be declared to the ATO. Capital losses can be offset against the capital gains you may make on other investments. Undeclared capital losses in one year can also be carried over as a capital gains offset in the next financial year. But remember, capital losses can only be incurred with the sale of shares. A fall in share prices alone - i.e. a decrease in its capital value - is not a realised capital loss.

KEEP RECORDS Above all else, investors need to keep records of their investments. “Keeping good records, including dates, prices, commissions, and details of taxable events such as share splits, share consolidations, mergers, and demergers is essential to avoiding trouble at tax time,” says Loh. “We want to make tax as easy as possible and using data from share trading platforms

How to invest ethically through your super fund Australians are voting with their feet, looking for investments that are kind to people and the planet. If that’s on your wish list, it’s possible to have a strong voice in what your super funds. More of us are realising that our money matters when it comes to supporting a cause. Research by the Responsible Investment Association Australasia (RIAA) found 86% of Australians expect their savings and super to be invested responsibly and ethically.

This level of interest has seen the market for responsible investments (including super) soar to be worth $1281 billion in 2020, up from $983 billion in 2019. An ethical approach: where to begin Nicolette Boele, the executive of policy and standards for RIAA, says, “This dramatic shift of capital is being fuelled by changing consumer expectations, strong financial performance and the rising materiality of different social and environmental issues from climate change to racial inequity.” If you’re keen for your super to

match your views, five steps can help you get started. 1. Know what ‘ethical’ looks like to you. Consider the issues that matter most to you - be it renewable energy, sustainable land management, or human rights to name a few. 2. Check if your fund matches your views. Once you have a clear idea of your ethical views, take a look at your fund’s policy around environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues. This should be set out on the super fund’s website. Bear in mind, you’re entitled to ask your fund for a breakdown

of the companies and projects it invests in to see how well your super aligns with your views. 3. Search for what matters to you. To really drill down into which super funds match your views, the Responsible Returns website (an initiative of the RIAA) has a handy online search function that lets you find a fund that ticks your boxes for ethical investing. It also lets you screen out issues you want to avoid such as logging, armaments or fossil fuels. As a guide, if animal cruelty is a pet aversion for you, a number of investment options within Christian Super, Future

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and the SDS from ETFs is a vital way that we help taxpayers avoid simple mistakes.” RECORDS TO KEEP INCLUDE: • the date of purchase/ reinvestment • the purchase amount/value details of any non-assessable payments to you • the date and amount of any calls (if shares were partly paid) • the date of sale and sale price (if you sell them) • any brokerage costs or commissions paid to brokers

DAVID THORNTON

Super and VicSuper exclude animal cruelty. What’s so useful about the Responsible Returns search tool is that it doesn’t take a ‘whole fund’ approach. The search results name each fund’s specific investment option that match your views. 4. Look for a ‘responsible leader’. As more Australians look for ethical investment choices, there’s a growing trend to give investment options marketing labels that suggest ethical or eco-friendly strategies. This has coined the term ‘greenwashing’, meaning the potential for funds to overstate the extent to which their practices are eco-friendly, sustainable or ethical.

As Boele notes, “It’s not good enough to simply claim you’re investing responsibly.” Reflecting this, investment watchdog ASIC is conducting a review to see whether super funds’ investment strategies are as green as they claim. 5. Consider the total picture. It’s great if your super fund matches your ethical stance. But it shouldn’t mean sacrificing decent returns or low fees. So it’s worth looking at the overall picture. Figures from SuperRatings show the top 10 sustainable balanced super options have all delivered returns topping an average of 8.7% annually over the past five years. NICOLA FIELD

when you buy or sell • details of events such as share splits, share consolidations, returns of capital, takeovers, mergers, demergers and bonus share issues • details of capital losses made in previous years - you may be able to offset these losses against future capital gains • dividend or managed investment distribution statements (Standard Distribution Statements).

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BUSINESS & PROPERTY

State to continue its share of pandemic support for seven weeks The NSW Government will go it alone to fund an extension of the JobSaver program to help NSW businesses re-open their doors and get people back into jobs as restrictions start to be wound back. When NSW reaches the 70 per cent double vaccination rate (people over 16) JobSaver payments will be tapered from 40 per cent to 30 per cent of weekly payroll. When NSW reaches the 80 per cent double vaccination rate, the Commonwealth will end its contributions but the NSW Government will continue to fund its 50 per cent contribution to JobSaver payments. At this point JobSaver payments will be tapered from 30 per cent to 15 per cent of

Details of the tapering of JobSaver

weekly payroll. JobSaver payments will end on November 30, coinciding with the further relaxation of restrictions. It is understood the NSW

Government’s extension of JobSaver to November 30 would work alongside its Roadmap for recovery to give businesses certainty as restrictions ease.

Parliamentary Secretary for Central Coast, Adam Crouch, said Central Coast small business owners had received more than $40M in weekly or fortnightly JobSaver payments.

“Extending the JobSaver payments until November 30, which is seven weeks after the lockdown ends, will give Central Coast businesses confidence to re-open and set themselves up for a bumper

summer season. “Business owners and workers have been through so much in the past 18 months and the NSW Government is doing everything possible to help them bounce back from the pandemic.” After NSW reaches the 80 per cent double vaccination target the Micro-business grant will continue to be available at a rate of $750 a fortnight, before ceasing on November 30. The NSW Government will announce its comprehensive Economic Recovery Plan in early October, designed to boost business confidence and jobs growth and inject stimulus as restrictions ease across the State. Source: NSW Government

$145M profit for clubs and pubs from gambling losses Punters splurging on the pokies in the first half of this year has resulted in a combined net profit of $145M for clubs and hotels across the Central Coast. Liquor & Gaming NSW has released its latest gaming machine data which shows just how much money communities have lost on gaming machines. The gaming machine data is updated every six months and shows the combined net profits of each local government area and the net profit rankings in NSW of all gaming venues. Liquor & Gaming NSW says it provides transparent and detailed data on gaming machines so the community can be kept better informed

about gaming activity in NSW. It’s the best indicator of how much money communities lose on gaming machines, according to Liquor & Gaming. The latest Central Coast data was collected from 36 clubs with a total 3631 electronic gaming machines between December 1, 2020 and May 31, 2021. It showed clubs had a net profit of $111.6M after paying tax of $21.5M. Data collected from 28 hotels from January 1 to June 30, 2021, shows a combined net profit of $33.2M with a tax bill of $10.6M. The six-monthly report for the first half of this year shows a total net profit for the clubs and

hotels of $144.8M. Net profit figures for the same period last year were significantly impacted by restrictions placed on gaming venues due to COVID-19, including the closure of gaming venues for 10 weeks from March 23 to May 31 in 2020. For the first six months of 2020, clubs on the Coast recorded a combined net profit of $65.9M while the figure for hotels was over $18M. The gaming reports include net profit rankings of all NSW venues with poker machines, with Mingara Recreation Club at Tumbi Umbi (308 machines) recording the highest net profit on the Central Coast and number 35 in NSW.

Of the 1269 hotels in NSW with gaming machines, Northlakes Tavern at San Remo ranked highest on the Central Coast for net profit at number 147 and 24 machines. Other local club ratings for net profit out of 1036 NSW clubs are: 47th Kanwal Wyong Rugby Leagues (with 250 machines); 58th Doyalson Wyee RSL Club (220); 97th The Entrance Diggers (197); 120th The Entrance Leagues Club (146); 131st Toukley RSL Club (143); 203rd Bateau Bay Bowling Club (101); 219th Halekulani Bowling Club (76); 273rd Budgewoi Soccer Club (52); 295th Lake Munmorah United Bowling Club (65); 318th Club Wyong (87); 322nd Canton

Beach Sports Club (45 machines); 327th Ourimbah Lisarow RSL Club (77); 330th Wyong Golf Club (47); 361st Gwandalan Bowling Club (37); 445th Toukley Golf Club (34); 450th Wyong Bowling Club (31); 461st Norah Head Bowling and Sports Club (34); 544th Shelly Beach Golf Club (28); and 546th Summerland Point Sporties (18). Local hotels ranked from 1269 NSW venues are: 147th Northlakes Tavern at San Remo (24 machines); 180th Lakes Hotel The Entrance (24); 218th Chittaway Tavern at Chittaway Bay (29); 319th Bateau Bay Hotel Motel (24); 399th The Dam Hotel Hamlyn Terrace (22); 412th Grand Hotel Wyong

(20); 475th Long Jetty Hotel (15); 551st Royal Hotel Wyong (15); 558th Coast Hotel Budgewoi (15); 641st The Entrance Hotel (26); 652nd Tall Timbers Hotel Ourimbah (18); and 720th Beachcomber Hotel and Resort Toukley (21 machines). Across NSW, compared to the previous six months in the last half of 2020, total gaming machine net profit decreased by 7.54 per cent, down to $3.46B. Hotels had a net profit decrease of 12.7 per cent, down to $1.37B and clubs also decreased net profit down to $2.09B, a 3.76 per cent loss. Sue Murray

The Greens land purchase separate to $10.5M renovation Mingara Leisure Group is planning a $10.5M redevelopment of The Entrance Bowling Club, known as The Greens, after it was damaged by fire in March 2020 and temporarily ceased trading. The fire damaged structure, at 2-4 Park Rd, will be demolished to make way for a new single-storey extension abutting the existing building which will be renovated.

Renovations will include a new lobby and reception area, lounge, internal and alfresco dining and gaming areas, offices, shades over two bowling greens and landscaping. A third bowling green will be removed to allow the new building extension and a 38-space car park. The development application 1163/2021 does not include the sports field, Taylor Park. Submissions to the

development application will be received by Council until October 18. Of the overall 2.35ha site, club premises occupy 1.67ha which have been leased from Central Coast Council and are separate to Taylor Park. The land is covered by Plan of Management No.6, Taylor and Shore Parks, adopted in December 2000 by the former Wyong Shire Council. The existing bowling club and greens are categorised as

Community Land-General Community Use under the Plan of Management which means it must meet the physical, cultural and social needs of the community. Mingara Leisure Group has been in negotiations with Central Coast Council to purchase the property when the opportunity arose as part of the Council’s financial crisis asset sell-off. A Social Impact Assessment said club members and the

public supported the proposed redevelopment and there was “general support” for the purchase of the site from Council The matter of a potential land sale to Mingara was separate to the development application. The land was originally donated to the then Erina Shire Council in the early 1920s by the Taylor family to be held in perpetuity as a park or for community use. It was known as The Entrance

Oval, now Taylor Park, and became the home of cricket in The Entrance. When The Entrance Bowling Club formed in 1939, and with the Taylor family’s consent, a section of the oval was allocated under a lease agreement and the club has been there since. In September 2019 the club amalgamated with Mingara Leisure Group. Sue Murray

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

Prizes for completing shared pathway survey Central Coast Local Health District is working on a project called Activate Your Space which aims to find ways to improve opportunities for San Remo and surrounding communities to be physically active. The health promotions team has been talking with key people in the community and working with Central Coast Council to examine how people

use the shared pathway along Budgewoi Lake and also the new park at John Peter Howard Reserve. They are asking people to take a quick, five-minute survey, San Remo Park and Pathway Survey 2021, so the locals can have their say about the park and/or the pathway. It’s an anonymous survey but if you’d like to go into the draw to receive one of five healthy food hampers or petrol vouchers you’ll need to provide

your email address. All surveys received will be collated and the information will help to make decisions about improvements and physical activity opportunities in the area. At the end of the survey you can request a copy of this report. To participate in the survey go online to redcap.link/ SanRemoSurvey John Peter Howard Reserve

Sue Murray

Important day on Guide Dogs calendar International White Cane Day (IWCD), which falls on October 15, is a day to celebrate the achievements of people with blindness or low vision and highlight the white cane as a life changing symbol and tool of independence. IWCD is always an important day on the Guide Dogs calendar, as the white cane is the mobility tool of choice for most Guide

Dogs clients. The Central Coast Volunteer Support Group started in 1982 and since then volunteers have been active in fundraising from The Entrance to Woy Woy with stalls at shopping centres, handing out information and selling merchandise. They are available to share their experiences with visitors and discuss how Guide Dogs provide services to help people with low vision or blindness.

One of the support group members, Robert Lillico, is a pedestrian with impaired vision and is very reliant on his hearing to determine when it’s safe to cross the road. He said this could be problematic when it came to cyclists as he was unable to hear their bikes and on occasions he has had near misses with bicycles on footpaths and running red lights.

Lillico urges cyclists and other road users to be more aware. President of the Central Coast Support Group, Merran Rudder, said every dollar from the community counted. “Guide Dogs NSW/ACT only receives minimal government funding. “We appreciate the Central Coast community who continue to visit our stalls and the support given to us by Central

Coast shopping centres who provide space for our fundraising stalls,” Rudder said. The cane has a long history as a mobility aid and has existed in various forms for nearly a century. In 1921 English photographer James Biggs became blind as a result of an accident and painted his walking stick white to be more easily visible. For this he is credited as the

creator of the white cane. Several types of canes exist to help with various functions, such as the long cane which is used to detect obstacles and hazards in front of someone, and the identification cane which is used as a visible signal to others that the user is blind or has low vision and the support cane which functions more like a walking stick. Harry Mulholland

New location for hospital emergency department The emergency department at Wyong Hospital has relocated following the official opening on Tuesday, October 12 of the new $200M redevelopment.

Hospital patients will now find the emergency department on Level 2 of Block H, which is next to the current hospital building. There will be signage to guide

the way. A patient drop-off zone and 15-minute parking is available outside the new emergency department (ED). Due to the ongoing COVID

situation, patients presenting to the ED are asked not to bring any family members or friends into the ED or the waiting room with them, unless they are a parent with a child.

The Wyong Hospital redevelopment includes a new and expanded ED with an additional 13 treatment spaces, a new and expanded Intensive Care Unit, new inpatient units, ambulatory paediatric unit,

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

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Starting over in Spring: Dietary ‘big rocks’

GEORGIA LIENEMANN This is the second part of our post-lockdown health reset. We’re focusing on simple mindset, diet and lifestyle shifts that will get you back on track this Spring. Last week we introduced the Japanese concept of ‘Kaizen’, the implementation of small, continuous improvements that generate momentum and the motivation to forge ahead on a new trajectory. This week we’re focusing on the concept of ‘big rocks’ and

seeing how we can apply it to our health routines, to create permanent change. If you’ve never come across the concept before, the idea is that by filling a jar with pebbles and sand (the less important tasks, according to the analogy), there is no room for the big rocks (your priorities). By filling your jar with the big rocks first, the pebbles and sand can fall around them, allowing you to fit more in. The idea of ‘crowding out’ unhealthy foods and destructive habits with healthy alternatives is a dietary application of the big rocks strategy. An example might be to focus on including a big plate of veggies into your day somewhereinsteadofattempting to give up your numerous dietary vices. The former is usually much more achievable than the latter. Willpower vs biology There’s another reason that this strategy is so effective when applied to our dietary choices. Anything we eat on a regular basis is either feeding our good gut bugs and helping them to proliferate (resulting in more

having to overthink it. 4. Green smoothie – the cheat’s salad This is the only time of year that I’m a devout fan of this idea, because our bodies generally crave an abundance of cleansing greens during Spring. It’s a balance, though. Throughout the rest of the year, my experience is that some people can overdo greens – remember, more is not necessarily better.

energy, better moods and cognition, healthy weight and metabolism, improved digestion) or starving them. The latter can lead to a state of ‘dysbiosis’ which is a drop in diversity and abundance of healthy microbes and potentially an overgrowth of harmful ones. The interesting thing is that each of the different types of microbes residing down there have their own preferred food. In addition to that, the microbes that are proliferating at any given moment can influence your food cravings. I’m sure you’ve noticed that when you’re in a rut with overindulging in takeaway or junk foods, they actually become addictive and it’s hard to break the cycle? This is one of the primary reasons. There are microbes thriving in that environment you’ve created and they don’t want you to change the status quo! By regularly adding in some fresh vegetables or other high fibre foods and increasing the quota over time, you allow a resurgence of healthy microbes that will put in their vote for healthier food choices. So,you can see why overcoming cravings isn’t just a lack of willpower on your part – you’re going up against biology. And biology will usually have the upper hand. Deciding on your dietary big rocks When aiming for any sort of transformation, but particularly in the area of health, it’s important to focus on the easy-toimplement habits that simultaneously offer the

greatest impact. It’s tricky to come up with a generic list of generic dietary suggestions that apply to most people because it depends where your baseline is, where your weakest links are and how high you’re aiming. Here are a few simple habits that, when implemented, seem to have the biggest impact across the board. 1. Glass of warm water or lemon water (or warm lemon water!) upon rising. Starting off nice and easy, a la Kaizen. Now, I don’t subscribe to the idea that outside of peak Summer, we need several litres of water per day to remain healthy or hydrated. However, it’s certainly true that we are often very dehydrated upon waking and that this needs to be rectified swiftly for our bodies to function in their optimal state. Plenty of important, healthsustaining processes happen in the first half of the day and they’ll occur much more efficiently if our cells and tissues are functioning properly. A glass on the bedside table before bed makes this one low-hanging fruit! 2. Stretching the window between dinner and breakfast Gradually bringing the time of dinner forward so that you’re eating earlier (without snacking later in the evening, in case that wasn’t obvious!) is another simple change that can have huge results. Increasing the window between dinner and breakfast is

a simple way to dabble in the practice of ‘intermittent fasting’ and for many people, this change alone can have significant results in terms of weight loss, mood, energy levels and other health markers. Isn’t it fascinating to think that just by changing the time that you eat – without addressing your diet or anything else – you can improve your health? Aim initially for a 12 hour window and gradually increase it to 14 or 15 if it’s achievable within your lifestyle. In my experience the lion’s share of the benefits come from making dinner earlier than breakfast late – especially for women. 9am is my suggested cut off for this meal. 3. A huge, balanced salad every day Learning to create quick, delicious and interesting salads is one of the most powerful health strategies you can master (and there’s a formula – I’ll do a series on this soon). Until you’ve mastered it, finding a place that sells them is a win, too. Aim to structure your day around lunch or dinner consisting solely of a huge, hearty salad that’s so satisfying, it can be a standalone meal. This is easy enough if it includes adequate healthy fats, carbohydrates in the form of fruit or starch and a decent serving of protein. The first elements that tend to go missing from the diet when health slips down the priority list are fibre, enzymes and phytochemicals (found in abundance in fresh, raw produce). By committing to this practice, you’re ticking off all of them and more, without

For busy folk who can’t regularly prioritise epic saladmaking, this is an extremely doable way to flood the body with the aforementioned fibre, enzymes and phytochemicals that are so often overlooked during hectic periods. Toss some fruit, cucumber and a handful of herbs or leafy greens into a blender and you’re done. And don’t chug! Drink it slowly, so that your saliva and digestive juices still have a chance to do their thing. 5. Healthy swaps: try the ‘one better’ approach This is a way to apply the concept of Kaizen to our dietary choices. If you’re struggling with cravings and a diet that might have slipped down a few notches throughout Winter and lockdown, this is a great way to tackle it: replacing your most craved foods with something marginally better. It’s best to start with one thing at time. It might be committing to swap out your unhealthy go-to takeaway options with healthier ones that you still enjoy or that sickly sweet, processed afternoon treat for fresh berries and yoghurt. The trick is to choose an equally indulgent replacement – just a marginally healthier one. Treat yourself. It’s an act of self-care. On an ongoing basis, these small wins build self-trust and resolve. And gradually the cravings subside, energy levels increase and by then you’re well and truly on your way. Good luck team. Great time of year for it.

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

Dianne first to undergo surgical cloning Blue Bay resident, Dianne Tandy, is the first patient to have undergone a new ground-breaking surgical procedure at Gosford Private Hospital. Experienced neurosurgeon, Dr Marc Coughlan, recently completed the surgery through Vertical Surgical Cloning, removing a cancerous spinal tumour and replacing the affected area with a 3D replica of the patient’s own vertebrae through a vertebrectomy. Coughlan said it was a bold new frontier for the hospital and for neurosurgery. “This kind of surgery is exciting because it is often for patients who are in a great deal of pain or are at risk due to

cancer so it provides the opportunity to dramatically transform their lives as they know it,” he said. “Rather than using off the shelf, generic implants, new 3D Vertical Surgical Cloning technology means that the model fits the patient’s anatomy seamlessly and allows for virtual surgical planning, providing better stability and load sharing and consequently reduce stress hot-spots. “This type of technology also means that these surgeries are significantly more time efficient and can help a wide range of patients experiencing invasive tumours or issues that mean an off the shelf implant would not work for them.” Tandy, who is 69, said she

Council prepares for a month of tuning in October is Mental Health Month and Central Coast Council has pulled together a program of online activities to get residents to reflect on their mental health. Director of Community and Recreation Services, Julie Vaughn, said Council was asking residents to ‘Tune In’ to what is happening to them and around them. “This year, the National Mental Health Month campaign is asking people to Tune In to yourself, Tune In to others, Tune In to your communities, and Tune In to stigma. “Council is partnering with a range of service providers, not just to help the community learn more about mental health, but to give residents practical tools and support to build mental resilience and look after their mental wellbeing. “Our program includes online webinars with Mental Health organisations like Mind Blank, an Accidental Counselling training course with the Lifeline Direct Training Support Team, plus online mindfulness craft workshops, stretch and relaxation classes and more,” Vaughn said. Council Administrator, Rik Hart, said this was part of Council’s longstanding commitment to work with the community to solve a range of social and health issues. “From devastating bushfires, droughts and floods to a global pandemic, major economic

downturns and social isolation, there is no denying that the past few years have paid a heavy toll on the mental health of our community. “Key to our community’s recovery from these events is Council’s role in connecting those who need support with education, information and advice, so we are helping to start those important conversations. “We aim to reduce the stigma around mental health issues and connect locals to great programs that they can access,” Hart said. Events scheduled for Mental Health Month on the Coast include the Man;Kind PodcastSeries Three Rebuilding the Man, which is a podcast that discusses a broader understanding of masculinity for the next generation. Another event is Babushka Paper Dolls with Vanja, an activity that was a part of the Make your Mark program held during Sydney Craft Week 2020. Other programs made available from Sydney Craft Week 2020 include Origami Making with Junko where participants will learn the art of origami, and Paper Craft with Mel where participants will learn how to approach paper cutting from the ‘what’ to the ‘how’ using a photograph as a template. For more information search online at: wellbeing at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au Harry Mulholland

Surgical implant to stabilise the spine

didn’t think twice about signing up for the surgical procedure. “I was diagnosed with breast

cancer which has since metastasised to my spine and prior to the surgery with Dr

Coughlan, I was in daily, endless agony due to a tumour in my spine,” she said. “If it could improve my dayto-day life I was happy to give it a shot and it was amazing to note the difference postsurgery in terms of pain and discomfort. “If I can help someone else who may benefit from following this treatment and surgical pathway then it is worth it 100 per cent.” Tandy will be undergoing further neurosurgery in October for another tumour located within her brain under Dr Coughlan. Hospital CEO and Healthe Care Australia Regional Manager, Matt Kelly, said he

was proud that the hospital was able to play host to such innovative surgical milestones. “It is incredibly important that even during challenging times such as the times we find ourselves in that we continue to innovate, push barriers and embrace technological advancements where possible,” Kelly said. “This cutting-edge surgery and technology has the capacity to improve the lives of many in our Central Coast community and it’s our responsibility as a premier health facility to continue delivering high quality care to the region. Source: Gosford Private Hospital

Support still important after lockdown The Mental Health Commission of NSW is urging communities, carers and mental health services providers to be vigilant in monitoring those around them for mental health challenges as NSW begins to emerge from lockdown. NSW Mental Health Commissioner, Catherine Lourey, said some might be feeling anxious about the changes as we moved back towards “normal” life.

“A lot of people are feeling uncertain about what their lives will look in a post-lockdown world,” she said. “There’s myriad of mental health impacts that may arise in coming months. “There is a lot we haven’t learnt from the lockdowns as a community. “Our community survey found 94 per cent of NSW respondents identified positive lessons they had learnt from COVID-19 and related events in 2020, and the vast majority across all age groups and

genders increased their use of various communication methods in keeping connected.” Lourey said connecting and supporting neighbours, friends and family was just as important now as it was during lockdown. “All of the tips for living well during COVID will still apply. “That means establishing new routines, eating well, exercising and giving ourselves permission to take things at our own pace,” Lourey said. October is Mental Health Month and the theme is tune in.

This means being aware of what is happening with you, and the world around you. The Mental Health Commission of NSW has prepared a calendar for the month of October with daily suggestions of ways to tune in. The calendar can be found at www. nswmentalhealthcommission. com. Source: Media release, Oct 8 Mental Health Commission of NSW

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Advocacy program aims to build skills Ben Brown of Bateau Bay has continued to empower people with intellectual disabilities throughout lockdown in his role as support officer with the organisation Self Advocacy.

Self Advocacy support officer Ben Brown and co-worker Yvonne Berry-Porter in the Gosford office

Run by and for people with intellectual disabilities across the Coast, Self Advocacy offers leadership and peer support groups to equip them with the necessary skills to take control of their lives and lead in their communities. Brown, who has a disability himself, said the programs on

offer were a great way to connect and grow within the community, particularly in recent months. “People with disability have told us that they feel much more included, confident, safe and happy by being a part of our online community during these tough times,” he said. “We help people with disability to reach out and help each other, strengthening connection with their local community and giving them a voice of their own.” “As a local Coastie with disability myself, these

programs have been of tremendous personal benefit; they have improved my confidence and independence,” he said. “They have given me the opportunity to meet other people, which I really enjoy.” People with an intellectual disability are able to join the following groups: Peer Support, which connects people with a disability in small groups to help and support each other; New Leaders, which helps people with a disability to be future leaders both at work and in the community to improve

representation; and Happy Hour which is a fun and engaging social gathering currently held virtually, subject to changing health measures, at 11am each Friday. Contact Self Advocacy representatives Ben Brown on 0403 758 977 or Yvonne BerryPorter on 0401 150 048 or at Yvonne@sasinc.com.au. Further information on programs and services is available at www.sasinc.org. au. Source: Gosford MP, Liesl Tesch

More pathways for high school students A program to improve education and career outcomes for high school students will be expanded over the next two years, thanks to a $13.5M investment from the NSW Government. The Educational Pathways Program (EPP) introduces students to different postschool study and employment options and will expand from 24 schools to up to 139 public

schools across NSW from next year. The program has been successful since it was introduced in 2020, with the number of students enrolling in school-based apprenticeships and traineeships tripling across participating schools. Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education, Geoff Lee, said investing in career education and skills training for young people was key to keeping the

NSW economy strong. “Encouraging the next generation to consider an apprenticeship or traineeship through this program will help to reduce future skills shortages and create a highly employable workforce,” Lee said. “Through this program, a growing number of Year 10, 11 and 12 students are earning and starting their career in industry while learning new skills in the classroom.

“The program is about exposing school students to the different directions they can take in their career so they can make informed and confident decisions.” Minister for Education, Sarah Mitchell, said greater Year 12 retention, increased completion of school-based apprenticeships and traineeships, and increased participation in post-school education were some of the

5@5

program’s benefits. The NSW Government’s investment in the Education Pathways Program will fund strengthened career guidance and support for students under specialist teachers for school-based apprentices and trainees. Immersion programs with registered training organisations, including TAFE, will give high school students ‘vocational tasters’

of different industries. Workshops will teach students employability skills, such as how to prepare for a job interview, how to communicate with employers, and how to manage their online presence. Dedicated careers support will connect students to local employers and jobs. Source: NSW Government

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NEWS

Tools to give teachers virtual thanks Students, parents, carers and the community are preparing to celebrate World Teacher’s Day on October 29, with the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) launching a new e-tool kit for download. NESA Chief Executive Officer, Paul Martin, said across NSW 160,000 early childhood, primary and secondary teachers have continued to educate, inspire and support young people, as the state has dealt with a global pandemic. “Thanks to the adaptability and professionalism of teachers, students have

continued learning whether from home or the classroom. “World Teacher’s Day gives us a chance to acknowledge their incredible work, and for students to share how their teachers have made a difference,” Martin said. This year, schools and the community can download an e-toolkit to support them letting a teacher know how they have inspired and helped them in their learning. The toolkit includes e-cards for student to send to their teachers, badges to add to social media profiles, a downloadable colouring-in page, tiles for Twitter posts,

backgrounds for Teams/Zoom meetings, as well as screensavers and digital display screens. A digital card means students can join the celebration, even if they are learning from home. Students, school staff and families can share cards, tell their teacher how they have helped or inspired them and share their favorite learning experiences over Zoom, their Google classroom or on social media. The e-toolkit can be downloaded from the NESA website. Harry Mulholland

World Teacher’s Day will be held on October 29

Emergency services warn of flood risk With the prospect of another wet Storm Season bringing the very real risk of floods, NSW State Emergency Service (SES) is launching a new campaign aimed at raising awareness of floods within local communities. Launched on September 26, the ‘Floods, The Risk is Real’ campaign encourages northern zone communities throughout

the Central Coast and the Hunter ,including Tuggerah Lakes, Wyong, Dora Creek, Lake Macquarie, to be aware of the risk of floods and take steps to get prepared. Commander SES Northern Zone, Chief Superintendent Stephen Patterson, said communities had experienced flooding before and they will again. “The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has advised that this

storm season, which will run from October to March, we are likely to see a repeat of the conditions experienced last season. “We all saw what the last season brought, with many across the region hit hard by the major flooding in March. “That’s why it’s really important everyone, whether it be residents, business owners, and even people who travel into the area for work know

their risks and to have a plan,” Patterson said. Patterson explained the campaign is designed to help people, especially newcomers to the area, know what they can do before a severe weather event strikes. “As part of the campaign, our local volunteers have highlighted their community’s flood risks in a series of videos, produced with support from the service’s Principal Partner

NRMA Insurance. “Our volunteers have seen firsthand the difference good preparation can make when floods hit their community and that’s what we want to encourage more of,” Patterson said. NRMA Insurance Executive General Manager of Direct Claims, Luke Gallagher, said the insurer was proud to partner with the NSW SES on the campaign.

“We hope it will help communities better understand their level of risk and the practical steps they take now to help to protect themselves from flooding, which can ultimately save lives and property,” Gallagher said. Find out how you can prepare by visiting ses.nsw.gov.au. Source: SES

THE

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SPORT

Little Athletics given funding boost ATHLETICS Coles is helping Wyong Little Athletics Centre to jump a funding hurdle this season with a $1,200 grant from its Little Athletics Community Fund to buy new equipment. Following inspiring performances from Australia’s track and field stars at the Tokyo Olympics, the Little Athletics Centre in Warnervale is hoping the new equipment will help budding athletes fulfill their sporting potential. Wyong Little Athletics Centre President, Brendan Carlson, said the funding will help the centre to survive and thrive through challenging times. “Our centre has been in the community since 1978 and in the immediate years preCOVID we were experiencing a growth phase, however, we were forced to cap our numbers last season due to COVID-19

restrictions. “We have high expectations that post-COVID we’ll get some growth again. “The Coles grant will enable us to buy new javelins so that we can open up an extra throwing area thus providing a better experience for our athletes by decreasing the wait times for kids and parents. “Grants like these also help to keep our registration fees as reasonable as possible so that we can continue to cater for the Wyong community,” Carlson said. Coles Little Athletics Australia President, Andrew Pryor, said the grants will help Little Athletics Centres across the country to develop the next generation of Olympians as the sport builds towards Brisbane 2032. “We are entering a very exciting period for Little Athletics following the success

of Tokyo 2020 and as we set our sights on Brisbane 2032. “Around 75 per cent of the Australian track and field team who competed in the Tokyo Olymics and a further 23 per cent of para-athletes in the Paralympics, had their start in Little Athletics, that’s why support like this from Coles is so important. “The grants will help ensure little athletes of today have all the resources they need to develop into Olympians of the future, if that is the pathway they choose,” Pryor said. More than $343,000 in sports equipment grants were distributed to 104 Little Athletics centres across Australia in the latest round of funding, taking the total contribution of the Coles Little Athletics Community Fund to over $2M in just three years. Harry Mulholland

Wyong athletes get a funding boost

Academy celebrates athletes and hopes for live finale The VIATEK Central Coast Academy of Sport Athlete Celebration was hosted on the Academy’s social media sites on Wednesday, September 29, with COVID-19 restrictions forcing the activity online. With athletes and parents watching from home a range of award winners was announced, with all sporting program athletes of the year and encouragement award winners now in the running to be announced as the overall

Central Coast Academy of Sport Athlete of the Year. A spokesperson said the Academy was hopeful that the second stage of the VIATEK CCAS Awards Evening would be held at a face to face event on Wednesday, November 10,at Mingara Recreation Club where the major award winners will be announced. “We have adjusted our awards presentation formats numerous times to ensure that we are meeting all current restrictions,” Events Manager

Emily Burgess-Moore said. “When it became apparent that a face-to-face event was not possible, we felt that hosting an online presentation would be the best way forward. “While this has added an extra challenge, we were thrilled to be able to announce the deserving award winners in an online format. “A huge congratulations to all the CCAS athletes in what has been an incredibly challenging year. “We remain hopeful that a

face-to-face event will be possible for phase two of the CCAS Awards Evening.” Award winners were: AFL – Development Boys Encouragement Award, Clay Partelle; Girls Encouragement Award, Lacy Myers; AFL – U13 Boys Encouragement Award, Kaiden McNamara; Girls Encouragement Award, Grace Ramanauskas; AFL – U15 Boys Encouragement Award, Spencer Andrews-Bohringer; Girls Encouragement Award, Taya White; AFL – U17 Boys

Encouragement Award, Baxter Beams; Girls Encouragement Award, Eliza Schram; Basketball Athlete of the Year, Sophie Prior; Basketball Encouragement Awards Max Murray and Zoe Naylor; Golf Athlete of the Year, Riley Millers; Golf Encouragement Award, Desiree Herden and Archie Morris; Hockey Athlete of the Year, Noah Needham; Hockey Encouragement Award, Charlotte Tarleton and Ethan Shadbolt-Connors; Indigenous Program Encouragement Award, Richard Darell; Netball

Encouragement Award, Makenzee Ryan, Charlotte Rousell, Eden Mungovan; Netball Umpire of the Year, Amelia Carty; Swimming Encouragement Award, Haylie Green and Jacob Falconer; Touch Football Encouragement Award, Brandy Simpson; Triathlon Athlete of the Year, Morgan Charlton; Triathlon Encouragement Award, Wade Barr. Source: Media release, Sep 29 Central Coast Academy of Sport

Action plan for tennis on exhibition TENNIS Central Coast Council has been working with Tennis NSW on an action plan to improve participation in the sport and improve the region’s courts. The draft Central Coast Tennis Facilities Action Plan went to Council’s meeting on September 28 and is now on exhibition for public feedback. Council owns 30 of the 32 tennis centres across the local government area with an asset portfolio valued at $13M. Of those, 14 clubs affiliated with Tennis NSW operate at Council facilities with more than 3,000 members. Another eight Council venues are unaffiliated with operating clubs, a further eight are open

to the public free of charge, and two are privately owned. Of the 30 Council-owned tennis venues, 22 have active coaching operators. Many sites have inadequate lighting levels for commercial or competition use and there are a number of sites where the condition of the courts is a result of inadequate recurrent investment, a report to Council said. To bring the court portfolio up to a safe playable standard and maintain it will require a significant investment in capital and operational expenditure, with six sites requiring works within three years. The draft plan envisages allocating a total $1.02M up to and including the 2024/25

capital works budget. Council will also seek funding through Tennis Australia, state and federal grant programs for

renewals, upgrades and new tennis facilities. Some of the planning proposals in the five-year action plan include

redevelopment of regional scale tennis facilities at Wyong and Gosford to host events that generate sports tourism benefits for the regional economy. Another proposal is a subregional tennis centre in the Warnervale area. Administrator Rik Hart said the draft Tennis Facilities Action Plan would ensure they were properly maintained, managed and any opportunities around them were realised. “The draft action plan sets the vision for the region which is to have a network of high-quality, inclusive tennis facilities that contribute to the active and social lifestyles of our community,” he said. “People might not know that many tennis courts managed

by Council remain open, unlocked and free for public use and this is one of the many services that we deliver yearon-year for our ratepayers. “This action plan is a positive step to ensure that Council is making smart, calculated decisions around facility planning and improvements, that these community facilities continue to remain open and fit for purpose for all to enjoy and may even encourage more people to get into the sport,” Hart said. The draft Central Coast Tennis Facilities Action Plan 2021 will be placed on public exhibition on yourvoiceourcoast.com for community feedback in coming weeks. Sue Murray

SPORT

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COAST COMMUNITY CHRONICLE - WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

Five-a-side registrations open for new season FOOTBALL Five-a-side soccer, or Soccer5, in Tuggerah is set to return after a few tough months due to COVID-19 lockdown. The first component to return is pitch hire, and social sports which will be available from October 11 for fully vaccinated users to book in a recreational game of soccer for fun or fitness. The adult league will be returning with registrations now open for fully-vaccinated people, kicking off on October 25. Centre Manager at Tuggerah Soccer5, Matthew Crowell, said he and the team at Soccer5 were excited to be back up and running. “Summer season is our most popular competition and its critical we’re back up and running. “For us as a company, we

(Back) Matthwew Crowell, James Monie, Brian Beveridge, (Front) Matthew Trott, Carl Thornton, Jaime McMaster, Dean Heffernan

will be adhering to all the health guidelines. “We’re still trying to decipher where we fit into the restrictions, but we will be following the health guidelines

for community sport. “It’s really unknown what our numbers will be for the new season of league, but we’re hoping they will be strong as everyone hasn’t had any sport

over the last few months, so we’re hopeful we will have a good intake,” Crowell said. Pitch number two has been re-turfed for the 2021-22 season and is ready to go for

Soccer7 matches. Goal scorers and man of the match will be recorded and uploaded online by referees. The Junior League registrations are also open with the new season set to start on November 2. The U15s and U16s will play on Tuesdays and the U5-U14 sides will play on Fridays. Crowell said that Soccer5 was committed to fully opening when restrictions allow. “We will do whatever we can to get back up and running by bringing back social sports, leagues, pitch hire, kids birthday parties and netball competitions starting when we can. “Football is one of the largest sports in the world and we can cater to a lot of people from casual players to more experienced ones. “When we can, we will also be opening our bar area back up.

“We just want to give everyone who comes the best time possible,” Crowell said. To sign up head to the Tuggerah Soccer5 website and register a team. All players in the team must be registered and paid for their league to start. Five-a-side teams must have a minimum of six registered players, 7-a-side teams require a minimum of eight registered players. All teams will have the option to play friendly matches before their league kicks off for a fee. Active Kids vouchers are redeemable on Season Passes and Soccer5s Memberships for players with a valid voucher. To use an Active Kids voucher, users are encouraged to contact the Soccer5 team so this option can be added to their Player Registration link. Harry Mulholland

Request for cut to ground fees refused by Council Central Coast Council ignored a request for an across the board cut in ground fees when it made its decision on sporting refunds at its September 28 meeting. Instead it will offer refunds only where groups have offered refunds to players despite sporting groups not charging their players for the costs of ground fees. Sports Council Secretarytreasurer, Diane Dales, said most clubs raise funds from their canteen sales to pay the Council bill for ground fees. Administrator Rik Hart went ahead with the staff recommendation to agree to a 50 per cent reduction in ground fees only where associations and clubs offered refunds to their players. “Local sporting clubs, associations and community groups are encouraged to contact their Council Facility Manager, and we will work with each sporting group on a case-bycase basis to ensure the ongoing

viability of our local winter sports sector,” Hart said. Dales addressed the September 28 Council meeting to explain that many sporting groups on the Coast were hurting financially. The Sports Council had requested a 50 per cent discount in seasonal hire fees for competition and training and a refund for scheduled training events that had been unable to proceed from June 26. “If a facility cannot be used, why should a fee be paid for such a facility?” Dales asked. “Most players are ratepayers, and the maintenance of community facilities is included in their Council rates. “Over the years Council has been placing more and more responsibility on associations and clubs regarding maintenance of sporting grounds. “This year, like last year, basically half the winter season was lost due to the COVID pandemic and associated lockdowns.” Dales said most codes and

FORT DENISON

Times are in local standard time (UTC +10:00) or daylight savings time (UTC +11:00) when in effect.

Hylton Moore Oval at East Gosford

associations did not include ground fees in their affiliation fees to clubs but billed them separately. Clubs raise money through canteen sales, fundraisers, sponsorships, and revenue from final series to pay ground fees. “Fundraising, including sponsorships, this winter and last winter, has been nearly nonexistent and clubs are barely keeping their heads above water,” Dales said. “Council requires any group

that hires any community facility to have public liability insurance. “This can be the highest expenditure in their budget and is not refundable. “Clubs are in such dire straits; they are asking for refunds on as many of these costs as they possibly can. “We need all parties to come to the table.” Most sporting bodies on the Coast have lost a huge amount financially this year as well as last year due to lockdowns.

TIDE CHART

Dales said some associations had paid clubs’ referee/umpire costs to help those who needed this income. “Clubs have lost all their Finals Series revenue profit along with revenue from canteens during their normal competition rounds,” Dales said. “We believe our request for a 50 per cent discount in seasonal hire fees for competition and training, plus a refund for any scheduled training event unable to proceed is a reasonable request. “We were here earlier this year looking for a reduction in fees, which was denied. “Please don’t deny us again.” Each club will now have to face Council on a one-on-one basis. This includes community groups using Council facilities such as community halls. In the report to theAdministrator, Council noted that it would be an easier process to create a credit note rather than provide a refund. “Council’s winter season users were invoiced in May for the entire winter season,” the report

stated. “The total amount charged to all winter users was $387,686.83. “Of this funding, $198,558 was journaled into 2021/22 financial year in recognition of when the facility usage would occur. “If a 50 per cent fee reduction is approved, $193,843 (being the portion of the seasonal fees charged for the period from July 1 to September 26 which was not available to the community due to the lockdown) would need to be refunded. “Community leasing/licensing rent relief requests will be assessed on a case-by-case basis, based on financial hardship,decline in organisation’s revenue and lack of financial capacity to cover the rental fees. “Council manages over 300 community leases/licences. “The budgeted rental income from July to October 2021 is $92,384; this does not include facility hire or recovery of outgoings such as utility bills.” Merilyn Vale

LAT 33° 51’ S - LONG 151° 14’ E - TIME ZONE - 1000

Times and Heights(m) of high and low waters

0246 1.19 0010 0.39 0211 0.34 0410 1.19 0521 1.24 0057 0.36 0136 0.34 0814 0.66 0933 0.69 1051 0.66 0617 1.32 0703 1.41 0744 1.50 0821 1.56 WED 1454 1.63 THU 1611 1.60 FRI 1722 1.61 SAT 1158 0.59 SUN 1255 0.52 MON 1343 0.46 TUE 1426 0.42 2203 0.44 2313 0.42 1820 1.62 2031 1.58 1910 1.63 1953 1.62 0242 0.36 0311 0.39 0340 0.43 0408 0.48 0438 0.54 0511 0.60 0021 1.20 0856 1.61 0929 1.65 1000 1.67 1033 1.67 1106 1.66 1143 1.62 0548 0.66 WED 1505 0.40 THU 1544 0.40 FRI 1621 0.41 SAT 1700 0.43 SUN 1740 0.46 MON 1823 0.51 TUE 1223 1.57 2109 1.53 2258 1.33 2145 1.47 2221 1.40 2338 1.27 1913 0.56

APPROX. TIME LAG AFTER FORT DENISON Ettalong 40 min, Rip Bridge 2hrs - Wisemans Ferry 2 hrs 30 min, Koolewong 2 hrs 10 min

In view of the variations caused by local conditions and meteorological effects, these times are approximate and must be considered as a guide only. They are not to be relied on for critical depth calculations for safe navigation. Actual times of High and Low Water may occur before or after the times indicated

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU - COAST COMMUNITY CHRONICLE

Page 39 13 October 2021

SPORT

Young keeper brings overseas experience FOOTBALL Central Coast Mariners have announced the addition of goalkeeper Yaren Sözer to Nick Montgomery’s A-League squad this season. The 24-year-old was born in Victoria and came through the Melbourne City FC academy. He captained the National Youth League team to a championship, as well as being part of the A-League squad that won the FFA Cup in 2017. After multiple successful seasons in Australian youth football, he signed with İstanbul Başakşehir F.K. in Turkey, before being loaned to Esenler Erokspor. After a couple of seasons in Turkey, Sozer signed with Perak FC in the Malaysian Super League. Sozer has dual Australian and

Turkish citizenship and while he enjoyed his time abroad, he is ready to return to Australia and compete for a starting spot at the Mariners. “After spending three years in Europe and Asia away from home, I feel like I have gained a lot of experience and maturity and I believe the timing is right to return to Australia to try and establish myself in the A-League,” Sozer said. “I’m excited for the season ahead. The Mariners are a fantastic club that has given many players an opportunity to show their ability on the biggest stage “I’m looking forward to working hard every day and I hope it’s a successful season for all involved,” Sözer said. Mariners Head of Football, Ken Schembri, welcomed the addition of Sözer to the squad

as a gloveman. “We have taken our time to search for another goalkeeper that will add value and depth to our squad. “Yaren has overseas experience, which is rare for a goalkeeper at his age, highlighting his ambition, talent and potential, which fits well with the type of player that we want in our squad,” Schembri said. “Our goalkeeping coach, Jess Vanstratten, has spoken of his delight in having Yaren join his ranks and is looking forward to working with him further as the season progresses.” Sözer joins Birighitti as one of two goal-keepers for the 2021/22 Izuzu UTE A-League season. Source: Central Coast Mariners

Mariners sign Goalkeeper Yaren Sözer

Good sports deadline extended Nominations for the Good Sports Awards have been extended to October 25 giving more clubs a chance to win. The Good Sports Awards, run by the Alcohol and Drug Foundation, pay tribute to the heart and soul of community sporting clubs, no matter their size or code. Alcohol and Drug Foundation CEO, Erin Lalor, said the awards recognised the strong clubs and dedicated people who were passionate about

community, their members and making their club the very best it can be. “They are with us in the good times and help us get through the tough times. “Even if your club’s season has been cut short this year due to COVID-19, celebrating your wins and achievements is the perfect way to boost club morale and keep member feeling proud and connected,” Lalor said. This year’s categories include Club of the Year, Volunteer of

the Year, Safe Transport Award, Mental Health Excellence Award, Junior Club of the Year and the new category for 2021, the Staying Connected Award. All categories have a $1,000 cash prize. Other categories include Club of the Year from each state in which the winner will receive a $500 prize, and Volunteer of the Year from each state will receive $250. Good Sports is Australia’s largest community health sports program, working with

more than 10,000 community sports clubs across Australia to build a healthier sporting nation. The program helps clubs create a safe, welcoming, family friendly environment to promote long term positive health and preventing alcohol and drug related harm. Nominations for the Good Sports Awards will be accepted until midnight, October 25. Source: Media release, Oct 7 Alcohol and Drug Foundation

Humpback Highway Watch Ronny Ling and his Central Coast Dolphin Project and Central Coast Newspapers have combined to bring you a regular Humpback Highway report in each edition of this newspaper. Friday 15th to Monday 18th October are “Dolphin Days” and we are asking everyone to record their dolphin sightings off the Central Coast. Even better, if they are able to get some photos as well. The information gathered will be used to update our data, and discover more secrets about the habits of our local dolphins. We are asking for people to phone, text or email their sighting information to us, and if they want, they can contact us and we’ll email them a sighting form to use.

Whales have been sighted close to the coast, as they are bringing their calves south. Mothers, calves and sometimes, their escorts, have been putting on some spectacular shows off Norah Head, the Entrance and Crackneck. Seals have also been making themselves known at Cabbage Tree Harbour, Blue Bay, Toowoon Bay and Bateau Bay. As usual, dolphins have been showing off at local beaches including Frazer Park, Lakes Beach, Soldiers Beach, North Entrance and Shelley Beach. If you’re planning to go whale watching, remember to comply with Health Regulations and police/government directions. Let us know if you see a whale, seal or dolphin by text or call 0490 401 969. You can also email us at centralcoastdolphins@gmail.com

If you are lucky enough to spot a whale, seal or dolphin, please text or call the Project on 0490 401 969 or email centralcoastdolphins@gmail.com

SPORT

Page 40 13 October 2021

COAST COMMUNITY CHRONICLE - WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

No luck for our surfers in Portugal Avoca Beach’s Macy Callaghan winning her Round of 32 heat at the Vissla Pro Ericeira, Portugal, October 6. SOURCE: WSL / Poullenot.

SURFING The Vissla Pro Ericeria in Portugal has come to an end without lasting success for the three Central Coast competitors, victory in the end coming to Hawaiian’s Ezekiel Lau (Men) and Luana Silva (Women).

Shelly Beach’s Molly Picklum winning her opening heat at the Vissla Pro Ericeira, Portugal, October 4. SOURCE: WSL / Poullenot

Although advancing through their opening heats, Shelly Beach’s Molly Picklum and Avoca Beach’s Wade Carmichael were both eliminated in their second bouts. Avoca’s Macy Callaghan advanced up to the opening one-on-one heat in the Round of 16 where she was beaten in classy fashion by 16 year old Hawaiian, Bettylou Sakura Johnson. From Sunday to Saturday, October 3 to 9, the surfing conditions gradually improved within a three to six foot range, becoming more powerful and better formed by the start of the finals series half-way through the competition. With the early competition waves often proving difficult to read, the heat winners were often the surfers most capable

or fortunate in picking out the best scoring options. In the opening Round of 64, Picklum was able to set herself more than four points apart from her European competition with a heat high score of 7.67 and a second wave of 7.10. Two strong early waves came for Picklum in the following Round of 32, granting her a two-wave score of 12.80 and the lead early in the heat. With six minutes to go, Brazilian Summer Macedo overtook her with a 7.57 wave and managed to maintain this lead. Brazilian Silvana Lima then picked out the best wave of the heat, scoring a 8.50 to soar from fourth into second place and push Picklum out into third. The score was announced by the judges with only 30 seconds remaining and there was no further chance for Picklum to take on the two Brazilian leads. Carmichael was successful in his opening Round of 96, sliding through in second place behind France’s Kauli Vaast. His next heat was more difficult, compounded by an opening 9.33 wave from fellow Aussie competitor, Cooper

Chapman, who went on to place first. Missing the strong ocean tides from his Avoca home, Wade fell into fourth place, unable to post a completed wave score. Fellow Avoca surfer, Macy Callaghan, was looking strong after two successive wins but was then outmatched by an inform Sakura Johnson, who posted three 9+ waves in a row to outscore Macy by 18.99 to 14.83. In the end,10,000 qualification points for the upcoming Championship Tour were awarded to the two winners, with Macy picking up 3500, Molly earning 2000 and Wade securing 650. All three surfers will hope for better conditions and performances throughout the upcoming Pro France to be held between October 16 and 24 on the South-Western French Coast, in Landes. This will be the third of four stops for this season’s Challenger Series and another 10,000 qualification points will be awarded to the male and female victor. CCC