Issue 125 of COAST Community News by Central Coast Newspapers

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January 28, 2016

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Issue 125

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Andrew Church is Citizen of the Year

Carnage at Avoca Beach

ight of Gosford City’s finest citizens and community groups have been recognised at the annual Australia Day Community Awards on January 25, held for the first time during special Australia Day eve celebrations in Gosford.

E Surf live savers and ambulance officers set up a triage in the car park at Avoca Beach to treat casualties on Australia Day

t least 20 people were knocked off their feet and smashed against rocks near the cliffs at the southern end of Avoca Beach at lunch time on Australia Day.

Two people with critical injuries needed to be transported to hospital and another five, also with critical injuries required ambulance attention. Director of life saving for Surf Life Saving Central Coast, Mr Brett Beswick, who was first on the scene at Avoca, described the incident as “carnage”. Mr Beswick said the incident occurred about 100 metres around the corner from the southern end of Avoca Beach on the ocean side near the spot known locally as the “mermaid pools.” “Three families had come up from Sydney for the day, they were picnicking near the pine trees near the car park at the southern end of Avoca Beach but they decided to go for a walk to give their kids a play in the mermaid pools,” Mr Beswick said. According to Mr Beswick, Central Coast

beaches are currently experiencing what he described as a “long interval swell” due to the prevailing cyclonic conditions off the Queensland coast. This means the lull between sets of waves can be very long and conditions may look flat for 15 minutes or more at a time. “When the wave does hit, it can be unusually powerful because it has such a long time for the energy and power to build up,” Mr Beswick said. The wave that struck at Avoca on Australia Day was strong enough to knock at least 20 people off their feet and towards the cliffs. Fortunately, none were pulled back into the sea, although rescue craft were launched from the beach and several surf life savers reached the area on their rescue boards. Mr Beswick said it was fortunate that the incident coincided with a life-saver

shift change, which meant there were more life savers on hand than at other times. “Five people needed to be carried out on stretchers,” he said. The person with the most critical injuries suffered a broken leg and arm, another had a broken ankle and a dislocated elbow and a third had a dislocated shoulder. Others were treated for serious cuts with one man requiring 30 stitches to his leg and a 10-year-old boy was treated for concussion. Mr Beswick said those who sustained the most serious injuries were aged from 30 to in their 60s. “The junior life savers who were just out of nippers and doing their first season of patrols did an amazing job of caring for and bandaging those with minor injuries and just comforting the people who were in pain,” he said. “Other families having picnics at the beach gave

up their chairs and towels and helped to comfort people with injuries.” Ambulance crews came from Terrigal, Bateau Bay and Point Clare to assist. “We were just thankful everyone got to go home,” Mr Beswick said. “It could have been a lot worse, we were lucky none of the children was seriously injured and there were no spinal injuries,” he said. Mr Beswick said the lesson to the taken from the freak accident at Avoca was to “always respect the ocean and never turn your back on it. “Stand and watch for 15 to 20 minutes so you can assess conditions properly, it all comes down to respect,” he said. Mr Beswick said Australia Day is always one of the busiest days of the year on Central Coast beaches and patrols will continue until the ANZAC Day long weekend in April. Interview, Jan 27, 2016 Brett Beswick, Surf Life Saving Central Coast Jackie Pearson, journalist

Local military historian Mr Andrew Church was named 2016 Citizen of the Year for his tireless work to create a unique cultural and historical landmark for the Gosford City community. Opened to coincide with the 100th anniversary of the Gallipoli landing in 2015, Mr Church’s Central Coast Interactive War Exhibit at Gosford is the only heritage venue of its kind on the Central Coast and the largest in New South Wales. An active member of many community groups, including the Gosford RSL Club, Gosford Chamber of Commerce and Gosford RSL Re-enactment Group, Andrew is committed to keeping the ANZAC spirit alive in our community. Gosford mayor Cr Lawrie McKinna said the awards would make sure Australia Day is extra special for Mr Church and the other award recipients. “I’m always impressed by the calibre of the Gosford City residents who receive our Australia Day Community Awards, and this year is no different,” Cr McKinna said. “Not only is this time of year a great chance for us to come together as a

community and nation, it’s also the perfect occasion to recognise these residents who are inspirational role models for the entire community,” he said. A Gosford City Australia Day Community Award is the highest civic award that a resident or community group can receive on a local level. Gosford City councillor, and chair of the Gosford City Australia Day Committee, Cr Jim Macfadyen said each of the awards recipients had tirelessly served the Gosford community. “Thanks to the efforts of these eight leading citizens and groups, our community is a more inclusive and better connected place for us all to live in,” Cr Macfadyen added. “Each award recipient prides themselves on getting involved in the community and they deserve to be publicly commended for their great work. “I would also like to once again thank our judging panel which is always faced with some very tough decisions,” he said. Media Release, Jan 25, 2016 Gosford City Council media

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GOSFORD LGA EMERGENCY SERVICES DIRECTORY

Ambulance, Police, Fire 000 Family Relationship Advice Line 1800 050 321 Family Drug Support 1300 368 186 G-line - Gambling Helpline 1800 633 635 Credit Helpline 1800 808 488 Child Support Agency 13 12 72 Australian Injury Helpline 1800 223 363 Veteran Affairs Net work 1300 551 918 Mens Domestic Violence 1800 000 599 Sexual Assault Resource 1800 199 888 Gay and Lesbian Counselling 1800 184 527 Gay and Lesbian Support 1800 249 377 Youth Sexuality Network 4320 2856 Vietnam Veterans 1800 043 503 Victims Support Services 1800 633 063 Translation and Interpreting Service 13 14 50

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Organisations Aboriginal Legal Service 8842 8000 Community Options 4351 3388 Bungree Aboriginal Association 4397 7700 Mingaletta 4342 7515 Aboriginal Home Care 4321 7215 Drug & Alcohol rehab 4388 6360 Respite Care Options 4351 3388 Eleanor Duncan Aboriginal Health 4351 1040 Darkinjung Local Land Council 4351 2930

Accommodation Dept. of Housing Gosford 4323 5211 Regional Youth Support Services 4323 2374 Coast Shelter 4324 7239 Pacific Link Com Housing 4324 7617 Rumbalara Youth Refuge 4325 7555 Samaritans Youth Services 4351 1922 Youth Angle • Woy Woy 4341 8830 Youth Accom Hotline 1800 424 830 Temporary Accommodation 1800 152 152

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Peninsula News Post Codes 2256 and 2257; Coast Community News Post Codes 2250, 2251, 2260; and Wyong Regional Chronicle Post Codes 2258, 2259, 2261, 2262 and 2263. All articles are sourced and dated so that readers will know when and where the information came from and where they can perhaps get more information. All articles are edited and given a heading and are often quite

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different from what was originally received. Contributions are welcome and are preferred in email form, ideally with any relevant photographs attached. Contributions must include the contributor’s name, address and phone numbers. This is not for publication but name and suburb will be published and anonymous contributions will not be included.

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Parents Helpline 132 055 Central Coast Family Support Service 4340 1099 Horizons (For men with children) 4351 5008 Interrelate - Family Relationships 1300 736 966 Uniting Care Burnside Gosford 1800 067 967

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Wildlife Arc 4325 0666 Wires 1300 094 737

Gosford Hospital 4320 2111 Cancer Hotline 131 120 Mental Health info Service 1300 794 991 Sexual Health @ Gosford Hospital 4320 2114 Beyond Blue (Depression) 1300 22 4636

Counselling Mensline - talk with a bloke 1300 789 978 Lifecare Family Services 1300 130 225 CatholicCare: 4356 2600 Relationship Australia: 1300 364 277 Interrelate: 1800 449 118

Problems, Habits & Addiction G-Line Telephone Counsel 1800 633 635 Gamblers Anonymous 9726 6625 Alcoholics Anonymous 4323 3890 Narcotics Anonymous 4325 0524 Quitline 131 848

Emergency Police Assistance Line 131 444 Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 Woy Woy Police Station 4323 5599 Energy Australia 13 13 88 Gas Emergency 131 909 Gosford City Council 4325 8222 Marine Rescue - Central Coast 4325 7929 SES - Storm and Flood Emergency 132 500

Welfare Services Donnison St. Restaurant 4325 3510 Central Coast Family Support Services 4340 1585 Horizons Family Services 4351 5008 Meals on Wheels Gosford 4363 7111 Woy Woy 4341 6699 Department of Community Services Gosford - 4336 2400 The Salvation Army 4325 5733 Samaritans Emergency Relief 4393 2450 St Vincent De Paul Society HELPLINE 4323 6081

Crisis Services and Helplines Lifeline - 24 hr. 13 11 14 Suicide Helpline 1800 191 919 Kids Helpline 1800 551 800 Parents Helpline 13 20 55 Indigenous Call Centre 136 380

2250 - Bucketty, Calga, Central Mangrove, East Gosford, Erina, Erina Fair, Glenworth Valley, Gosford, Greengrove, Holgate, Kariong, Kulnura, Lisarow, Lower Mangrove, Mangrove Creek, Mangrove Mountain, Matcham, Mooney Mooney Creek, Mount White, Narara, Niagara Park, North Gosford, Peats Ridge, Point Clare, Point Frederick, Somersby, Springfield, Tascott, Ten Mile Hollow, Upper Mangrove, Wendoree Park, West Gosford, Wyoming 2251 - Avoca Beach, Bensville, Bouddi, Copacabana, Davistown, Green Point, Kincumber, MacMasters Beach, Picketts Valley, Saratoga, Yattalunga 2260 - Foresters Beach, Nortfh Avoca, Terrigal, Wamberal

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Wyong Council agreed at its December 9 meeting to make a submission to the JRPP endorsing the development. At this stage, the applicant is seeking ‘concept approval only’ for the works to take place in three operational stages, with subsequent detailed development applications being lodged for each future stage. The development would include demolition of existing buildings and construction of a shopping centre with a supermarket, shop top housing, hotel accommodation, restaurant, multi-purpose function space, and ancillary parking and other works. Moving a motion for Wyong Council to endorse the development and make a submission to the JRPP in support of the developer, Cr Lloyd Taylor said: “We need to support the applicant on this particular one because

A photomontage of the proposed development within its surrounding coastal context

it is a huge commitment, a commitment that very few developers can make. “This is a $300 million project that will kick start the Central Coast and The Entrance,” Cr Taylor said. “This will really kick start investment in this tourist Mecca. “It will be the highest building on the Central Coast but that is a good thing. “It will hopefully kick start other sites and other areas. “We want businesses to succeed and grow and employ more people and this development is going to deliver.”

Cr Adam Troy seconded the motion and said: “It is not every day you get a $300 million development in council chambers, it is a milestone on the Central Coast. “It is going to be one of those focal points, a pretty special place and I can’t wait to see it happen,” he said. The site covers 21,357 square metres and takes in the existing Lakeside Plaza Shopping Centre and surrounding sites. According to a report prepared by Wyong Council staff for the consideration of councillors at their

December 9 meeting, the project is expected to generate 660 full time jobs, post construction. The proposal includes a retail podium and two towers and seeks variation to a number of Wyong Council’s planning controls. The site is identified as a ‘key site’ under Wyong LEP 2013 which allows for a bonus building height of 113.8 metres. The bonus building height is provided in return for “significant public benefits to be provided to the community and to stimulate further development and

viability of town centres,” according to the report. The proposed shop top housing would include 478 dwellings. The development would also encompass a 108 room hotel and parking for 1,433 cars. The podium would make available 13,250 square metres of lettable retail space fronting Dening St, Taylor St and The Entrance Rd. There are two levels of retail ﬂoor space along The Entrance Rd frontage and ground ﬂoor retail space along the Taylor St frontage containing a supermarket and a major

retail tenancy. The proposal includes two levels of basement parking and rooftop parking (179 spaces) with shade sails above the podium. Above the retail space, facing The Entrance Rd, shop top housing is proposed, comprising 48 residential apartments over three storeys. Within the northern (Dening St) end of the building is a restaurant and function/convention space (at the hotel lobby level). The next level up would be a landscaped level (referred to as the oasis level) which is located directly below the tower buildings and would contain two pools, landscaping, day spa, decks and a bar. Above this level, the development proposes two towers with 250 residential apartments (27 storeys) within a residential tower located on the corner of The Entrance Rd and Dening St. One hundred hotel rooms (6 storeys) and 110 residential apartments (11 storeys) would be located within a second tower building located on the corner of Taylor St and Dening St.

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Gosford’s city centre development approvals approach $700 million A

lmost $700 million worth of development has now been approved in Gosford’s city centre after the Hunter and Central Coast Joint Regional Planning Panel gave the green light for another landmark development. The Panel approved a $234 million mixed use development opposite the Gosford City Council Administration Building in Mann St. The Waterside development on the corner of Mann St, Georgiana Tce and Baker St includes three towers rising up to 33 storeys, an 80 room hotel, two cinemas and a tavern as well as 500 residential apartments, over 600 car parking spaces and other commercial and retail premises. Gosford mayor, Cr Lawrie McKinna, said the JRPP decision would cement Gosford’s position as the regional capital of the Central Coast. “This is the second, vital game changer the panel has approved for Gosford this year,” Cr McKinna said. “For too long the site opposite Council’s administration building that used to house the Froggy’s skating rink has sat dormant. “But now it’s ﬁnally set to be reactivated and play a deﬁning role in the social and economic revitalisation of our city’s centre by delivering another much needed tourist facility and iconic structure only a stone’s throw away from Gosford’s waterfront,” he

said. Council’s chief executive ofﬁcer, Mr Paul Anderson, said the community’s dream of a vibrant and bustling city centre in Gosford was fast becoming a reality. “Gosford’s importance as a regional city has been recognised by the NSW Government and unlocking its potential means embracing new opportunities for stimulus and growth like the panel and Council has over the past year. “Along with the almost $460 million worth of development already approved for the city centre, today’s decision is set to ﬁll Gosford’s skyline with even more cranes to build a world-class city here on the Central Coast. “I would also like to once again thank the Council staff who have worked tirelessly to review this development and provide very comprehensive reports to the panel,” Mr Anderson said. Council had recommended that the Hunter and Central Coast Joint Regional Planning Panel approve the development. Media release, Dec 4, 2015 Gosford Council media

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January 14, 2016 11 January 20

10? Development Address Description 1. Waterside Cnr Mann St and Georgiana Tce Three towers, Commercial, residential, cinema, hotel, tavern 2. Mariners Plaza Cnr Mann St and Donnison St Two towers, 26 storeys and 28 storeys, retail, hotel, residential 3. Mixed use 27A to 37 Mann St & 125 Georgiana Tce 16 storeys, retail, commercial, restaurant and residential 4. Quantum Towers Henry Parry Drive Two towers residential 5. Retail and Shop Cnr Erina St and Henry Parry Dve 2 x residential towers, 15 storeys and 12 storeys Top Housing 6. Telstra-Transfield 12-23 Mann St 15 storeys, 140 residential flats 7. Commercial and 43-45 Beane St 20 storey shop top housing plus 4 storey residential flat building on Keevers residential Land 8. Mixed use Duttons Tavern Mann St 14 storeys, residential flats with ground floor tavern 9. ATO Cnr Mann St and Georgiana Tce Commercial building 10. Performing Arts Location to be confirmed 1,000 seat theatre with studio and other facilities Centre Source: Hunter and Central Coast JRPP website, development and planning register, Dec 15, 2015

$ Value $230 million $157 million $50 million $50 million $37 million $34 million $26 million $18 million $? $30 million

Continued P3

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NSW premier, Mr Mike Baird and minister for local government, Mr Paul Toole announced their proposal on Friday, December 18 to merge Gosford and Wyong Councils in order to create one of 15 new councils in the “Sydney region”. The announcement has been described as a “dark day for democracy” and one that will “set a number of communities on the warpath with the Baird Government,” by Local Government NSW president, Mr Keith Rhodes. “This bully-boy farce is about removing genuine local representation, and completely ignoring the expressed wishes of local communities,” Mr Rhodes said. “It’s a cruel joke, and unfortunately the joke is on the people of NSW, because they are the ones likely to lose any meaningful input on the issues that impact on their day-to-day lives.” Mr Baird and Mr Toole promised improved infrastructure and services and stabilised rates would make ratepayers the big winners under the proposal. They said the community would have the opportunity to have a say on the NSW Government’s vision for local government in NSW. The new, as yet unnamed, Gosford and Wyong council was included in ‘Greater Sydney’, where the government is proposing to create the 15 new councils “to help the city [Sydney] grow, which would bring the total number of metropolitan councils down from 43 to 25. “Fewer councils will mean a big reduction in red tape for the NSW community and the businesses that work with councils,” Mr Baird said. Mr Toole said under the proposal there will be no change to merged council’s existing rate paths for four years.

The NSW Government’s proposed Sydney region council mergers with Gosford and Wyong in blue

“This package provides ratepayers with certainty,” Mr Toole said. Mr Toole said each proposal was the result of careful consideration of all the evidence, including four years of consultation with every council in NSW, independent assessments, merger preferences submitted by councils, and feedback from communities and stakeholders. “There is no ‘one-size-ﬁts-all’ approach, and we have recognised that each community area in NSW is unique,” said Mr Toole. “Through the Stronger Communities Fund, every new council that is established will be provided with up to $15 million to invest in community infrastructure,” Mr Baird said. “Each new council will receive funding of up to $10 million to ensure ratepayers do not bear the upfront costs of merging.” New councils will decide how to spend their Stronger Communities Fund allocation, which could include projects such as pool refurbishments, new sporting facilities, street beautiﬁcation projects, car park expansions and library upgrades. Gosford mayor, Cr Lawrie

McKinna said he and council staff learned of the proposal via a live webcast with the premier and local government minister at 9:30am on Friday, December 18. Cr McKinna said he was expecting the announcement to have “a bit more meat” but was waiting to receive a more detailed document from the government. He said the local councils who were part of the webcast had been informed that the next local government election would be put back from September 2016 to March 2017. “Now we have to use that extra time to make sure the outcome is good for the community,” Cr McKinna said. “The one good thing is that it conﬁrmed there will be a rate freeze for four years,” he said. However, Cr McKinna said he believed the process of combining the two Central Coast councils to form the new local government would be much more expensive than the $10 million provided by the state government to assist with costs. “I don’t know what the total amount is going to be but it is going to be far far more than that.” Cr McKinna said both councils

would have to draw on their surpluses and be “Scottish with their money” to cover the expense of amalgamation. However, he said he did not believe any associated cost cuts would have a negative impact on services. “We have been told that both council’s budgets and operational plans would run through until 2017, so it is business as usual. “Senior managers from both councils have been having regular meetings to sort out how it is going to happen and that will keep going now,” he said. Cr McKinna said he had heard rumours about NSW Government plans to sack councils or appoint panels to oversee mergers but was confident the two Coast councils would remain in place until the amalgamation was finalized and new council elections held. The NSW Government is using the existing process set out in the Local Government Act to consider council mergers. “Our process will provide an objective assessment of the merger benefits and impacts, and give the community a chance to have a say before a final decision is made,” Mr Toole said. Detailed merger proposals are now being finalised and will be referred to the Chief Executive of the Office of Local Government (OLG) for examination and report under the existing process set out in the Local Government Act. The Chief Executive will appoint qualified delegates, who will commence a public consultation process for all 35 proposals, including public hearings. Following this stage, final proposals will be referred to the Boundaries Commission for comment. Mr Toole commended councils for their leadership in submitting merger preferences to Government and for recognising the significant benefits mergers will bring to their communities. The public consultation process will commence in January, once detailed proposals are made available at www. councilboundaryreview.nsw.gov. au. A factsheet is also available to download. Both Gosford mayor, Cr

McKinna and shadow minister for the Central Coast, Mr David Harris said local residents should make submissions and let the state government know their views on amalgamation during the consultation process. Cr McKinna said he believed public consultations should have been held prior to the decision being made to go ahead with mergers but at least now those residents who were concerned about the lack of consultation could have their say. Mr Harris slammed Mr Baird and Mr Toole’s announcement as “undemocratic”. Mr. Harris said Mr Baird had disregarded community input and pushed forward with his Local Government reforms just before Christmas, trying to avoid serious scrutiny. “This decision will affect local residents, sporting and community organisations and above all hundreds of jobs without any real consultation,” Mr Harris said. “The government should be addressing the massive cost shifting from State and Federal Government to local ratepayers instead of its dubious policy of amalgamation,” he said. “Mike Baird has ignored the wishes of a majority of Central Coast residents and councillors. “The whole Fit for the Future process has been a multi-million dollar farce - it was a done deal from the start; “61 per cent of Central Coast residents with 59 per cent of small businesses strongly opposed amalgamations, yet this government claims to have a mandate. “Community voices were forced silent under Mike Baird and instead it was left to the politicians - there must be a Citizens Panel to ensure complete transparency and Community input into any new Council structure moving forward. “I strongly encourage people to write to the Boundary Commission delegate expressing their views about amalgamation. “They should indicate whether they support it or not.” Media releases, 18 Dec 2015 Mike Baird, NSW Premier Jake Allen, ofﬁce of David Harris Keith Rhodes, LG NSW Interview, 18 Dec 2015 Lawrie McKinna, Gosford Council Reporter: Jackie Pearson

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Public transport costs could rise by almost half Weekly public transport osts for Peninsula residents ould rise substantially – in ome cases by almost 50 per ent - if IPART’s proposed eforms to Opal transport ares are adopted by the SW Government. The weekly fare from Woy Woy Central could rise by 25 per ent over two years from $60 to 75 a week, while the weekly fare om Woy Woy to Tuggerah will crease by 48 per cent to $57 with e changes to be implemented in uly. The current $60 per week cap ill go up to $65 per week in July, eaning the maximum increase r commuters who already reach e cap would be $5 or eight per ent, according to IPART chairman r Peter Boxall. IPART proposes increasing the eekly cap to $70 in 2017 and $75 2018 – 25 per cent higher than e current cap. The draft reforms would apply daily cap of $18 from July 2016, eaning that passengers taking a

one-off return journey from Woy Woy to the city who currently pay $15, would pay $3, which is a 20 per cent increase. A further increase of the daily cap is then planned, to $19 in 2017/18 and $20 in 2018/19. Central Coast Greens spokesperson, Ms Kate da Costa has described the IPART proposals as a mixed bag for the Peninsula’s commuters. “Moving to integrated multimode fares is long overdue but other recommendations might stop people using public transport which is the opposite to what government policy should be,” Ms da Costa said. “We have real concerns about increasing the prices for seniors and pensioners with fares rising from $2.50 to $3.60 and upwards,” she said. “Why is the State Government seeking to increase revenue from some of the most vulnerable public transport users? “We should be doing everything we can to get cars off the road

including on weekends which are increasingly congested. “Removing reduced price or free trips and introducing a complicated fare credit scheme will not promote public transport use. “Coast users will be slugged again with increased fares for longdistance commuters. “If speeds can’t be improved because of the Cowan Rise, we are calling for the introduction of continuously available wiﬁ and charging points in trains, so that commuters can negotiate with their employers to take work time on the train into account to shorten their day in the ofﬁce, and gain back some valuable family time.” NSW Shadow Minister for Transport and infrastructure said a commuter travelling between 25 and 35km to and from work would face a yearly increase of $959. Mr Park said a daily train journey from Woy Woy to Tuggerah would fall into that category. Member for Gosford Ms Kathy Smith has said IPART’s proposed reforms to Opal transport fares will

not be in the best interests of the Peninsula community. She said IPART assumed that only a minority of commuters make 10 public transport trips per week. “To assume public transport users don’t travel for 10 trips per week is naïve or misleading,” Ms Smith said. “The majority of users are commuting to work to ﬁve day a week jobs hence they complete a minimum of 10 trips per week,” she said. She said the reforms also appeared to give preferential treatment to commuters using more than one mode of public transport. According to Ms Smith this would also disadvantage commuters in the Gosford electorate, many of whom drive their own cars to Woy Woy (or Gosford train station) and then catch the train to and from work. “The majority of train travellers also only use one form of transport. “Of particular concern to me is the fact that the NSW Government

no longer tracks passeng journeys. “Instead a record is kept only where people start their journey. “How can this possible help w future planning? IPART is now seeki community feedback on its dr fare reform package before a fin report will be released next year Submissions will be accept until February 5, 2016. Any new fares would come in effect on 1 July 2016. The Draft Report is available IPART’s website. “We want to hear fro passengers and taxpayers abo what they want their fares to lo like and how they prioritise differe things where there are trade-offs be made,” Dr Boxall said. Media statement, 7 Jan 20 Jane Letteri, office of Kathy Sm Media releases, 21 and 22 Dec 20 Julie Sheather, Independe Pricing and Regulatory Tribun Media release, 21 Dec 20 Mehreen Faruqi, NSW Gree Media release, 21 Dec 20 Ryan Gibb, Office of Ryan Pa

THIS ISSUE contains 54 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info Ofﬁce: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

Storm water run-off from Mangrove Mountain landﬁll site into Stringybark Creek catchment on Wednesday, January 6

he NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has continued to fail to meet community expectations over the environmental management of the waste landﬁll site at Mangrove Mountain golf course according to Mountain Districts Association spokesperson, Dr Stephen Goodwin.

“Following the widely reported ‘uncontrolled discharge’ alleged to have occurred from the landﬁll site in 2015 and that subsequently appeared in Ourimbah Creek some 12 km downstream, the EPA said that it was conducting a criminal investigation,” Dr Goodwin said. “This has still not been resolved,” he said. “As a result of the discharge and following repeated requests from members of the community, in late September, some two months after the event, the EPA had science staff from the Ofﬁce of Environment and Heritage sample the water system in Ourimbah Creek and sources. “They also took foliage and sediment samples from

the area of the discharge. “A week later, the EPA waste environment officer for Gosford LGA sampled water and sediment from the various ponds and accumulated water within the landfill site.” Dr Goodwin said when he enquired about the results in January 2016, the environment officer told him the EPA was still trying to identify a correct method of analysis for the foliage. “As for the results from the water and sediment sampled from inside the landfill site, he couldn’t disclose these without seeking approval. “This is over three months after the samples were taken,” Dr Goodwin said. In late November 2016,

members of Mountain Districts Association met with Mr Scott MacDonald, parliamentary secretary for the Central Coast at the golf course. “During the conversation, a water cart appeared on the landfill site spraying discoloured water up into the air over the surface of the landfill,” according to Dr Goodwin. Dr Goodwin said periods of extreme rainfall, such as the 240 ml recorded by the official Bureau of Meteorology station on Bloodtree Oval at Mangrove over four days from January 4 to 7, resulted in significant run-off at the landfill. “When extreme rainfall events occur, such as recently occurred, any contaminants from such

Storm water run-off from Mangrove Mountain landﬁll from two directions meeting in gully leading into Stringybark Creek catchment on Wednesday, January 6

water will be washed off the surface and into watercourses and creek catchments,” he said. “Even EPA site inspections are worthless.” Following a recent community enquiry, Mr Rob Hogan, EPA director waste and resource recovery, reported that, following an EPA inspection of the Verde Terra facility (Mangrove Mountain landfill) on January 7, the EPA had found no storm water discharges at the time of the inspection. Dr Goodwin said “This is only part of the story. “The day before the EPA visit, storm water discharge was noted gushing down a gully from the landfill site through private property in the direction of Hallards Creek catchment. “It was also freely flowing under the boundary fence of the licensed area and downhill along a public fire trail towards the same catchment.

“There was also cloudy, foamy water gushing down another gully running alongside the boundary fence between the landfill site and national park. “When traced back, it was seen to be coming from within the landfill site. “This water met up with a separate flow of water running down from the landfill site from a different direction. “This joined up to rush down the gully running alongside the golf course fifth hole in the direction of the Stringybark Creek catchment. “Both Hallards and Stringybark Creeks flow into Ourimbah Creek, which feeds in to the Central Coast water supply. “Has the EPA sampled the run-off as it left the landfill site in the north east corner and if not, why not? “Clearly after such a major storm event, there is an expectation that there

may well be signiﬁcant run-off that could be contaminated. “Central Coast residents should be concerned at the inability of the Mangrove Mountain golf course waste landﬁll to adequately contain storm water, and to isolate leachate from other water sources,” Dr Goodwin said. “Mountain Districts Association is aware of the expectation of an 18 hole golf course from this activity, but clearly the emphasis is now on receiving large quantities of waste from Sydney and less about a new golf course and the failure of the EPA to regulate this, with any vestige of environmental safety, is a major concern for us all.” Media release Jan 12, 2016 Stephen Goodwin, Mountain Districts Association Landfill Subcommittee

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January 28, 2016

Mr Noble said he expected the parties to exchange contracts for the sale of the land within the next two or three weeks. Mr Noble said the contract is currently under construction. Mr Noble said he understood a Heads of Agreement to be an agreement to enter into a contract. “It sets out the key principles and terms around which the contract is likely to be based. “It is like a guiding document and expression of intent.” In this instance, Mr Noble said he could conﬁrm that the Heads of Agreement was a written document signed by both Wyong Council and the Australia China Theme Park Pty Ltd. “Based on the discussions we have had with the company and the fact they have been prepared to sign a heads of

An artists impression

agreement as a precursor, I have no reason to believe they will not go ahead and sign a contract with us despite the delays that have occurred in the past,” Mr Noble said. “One of the aims that council had when it considered the letter received from the company early last November was to work with the company towards the possible creation of a new contract with new terms and conditions that would be more favourable and less risky and more on commercial terms than what had been the case previously,” Mr Noble said. “I can’t tell you about terms or money just yet, that will come out in due

course, but I can say that the proposed terms will be on a proper commercial basis and will be more favourable to council and the community and so in that way they will meet the requirements of the council when they looked at it in November,” he said. When asked if he, therefore, considered the previous contract to be deﬁcient or less favourable to council and the community, Mr Noble said: “I would never say that. “I am not going to say anything about what may or may not have been wrong with the previous contract but I can say the new heads of agreement will result in a better

outcome, should it all proceed.” Mr Noble said he could not commit to a date for settlement of the transaction because those details were “all commercial in conﬁdence at the moment but the proposed terms set out in the heads of agreement will be on normal commercial arrangements.’ In the event that ACTP Pty Ltd signs the contract and pays Wyong Council $10 million plus GST for the Warnervale land, Mr Noble said there were other steps the developer would have to go through before the Chinese theme park could be built. “There is a gateway approval by Department

of Planning that addresses rezoning matters so there is an in principle approval for matters to deal with rezoning subject to conditions. “Specifically the Department of Planning identified that there actually wasn’t a need to change the zoning itself but, subject to the company doing certain things and proposing those to the council, then there is a way suggested by the Department of Planning to allow what the company is wanting by making changes to the schedules in the Wyong LEP for that particular land.” The DA has already been received by Wyong Council for the first stage

of the development. “The proposed temple and ancillary buildings are covered in the initial DA and so yes there will be staging involved,” he said. According to Mr Noble, once stage one made its way through council processes, it would still need approval from the Joint Regional Planning Panel (JRPP) because of the amounts of money involved (more than $20 million). “It will absolutely require JRPP approval; it is a very big development.” ACTP have re-engaged its key consultants, Cardno, who have been instructed to move forward as quickly as possible with the rezoning of the Chinese Theme Park land. ACTP has paid Wyong Council $100,000 out of the $10 million plus GST it owes to secure ownership of the land at Warnervale slated for the development of its $500 million Chinese theme park. A Wyong Council media release followed two recent articles in the Fairfax and Murdoch press pointing out “nonpayment and delays” had plagued the proposed development. Media release, Jan 15, 2016 Wyong Council media Emails, Jan 18, 2016 Interview, Jan 18, 2016 Rob Noble, Wyong Council Jackie Pearson, journalist

Mr Phil Conacher of Conacher Consulting said that it appeared that the council-owned blocks on the Peninsula were not covered by a management plan, despite the Local Government Act requiring such a plan. He said the council had also not followed the requirements of State Environmental Planning Policy 19 in its proposed sale of the land. Mr Conacher said Jumbuck Close reserve was a “classic example” of how, without a management plan in place or adherence to SEPP19, council could be damaging any endangered ecological species or remnant flora present on the site. “The appointment of councillors requires them to follow the rules and act just like we have to: follow traffic rules or get fined if we don’t,” he said. “They have possibly destroyed a lot of other vegetation on the Jumbuck Close site and others that could have made those sites

more significant.” Mr Conacher said the parcels of community land on the Peninsula that have been earmarked for reclassification and sale by Gosford Council should have management plans in accordance with the Local Government Act. Under the Act, all land owned by a local council that is classified as community land must have a management plan prepared for it. Mr Conacher said: “There was a plan of management for community land, natural areas and bushland prepared by council in 2002. “Under the Local Government Act, council can prepare a generic plan of management but must identify what land is included in it,” he said. According to Mr Conacher, the Gosford Council document has a schedule attached which lists which parcels of land were included. “None of the Peninsula lots appears to be on the schedule,” he said. All councils in NSW had to classify all their land holdings when the Act came into law in 1993. “All land had to be identified, even if it was a 1920 subdivision or a person may have gifted land and expect council to look after it as a reserve for the sake of that family, a management plan had to be put

in place,” he said. According to the Local Government Act, land owned by a council must be classiﬁed as either operational or community, Mr Conacher said. Operational land included any land used for the general operations of council and includes depots, roads, and other infrastructure. Community land was deﬁned as land that was not operational and was generally public open spaces such as parks, reserves and conservation areas. Community land could come into council ownership in a variety of ways: Crown land transferred to council by the State government; land set aside for community use as part of a development approval; or bequeathed to council from families, individuals or community organisations. According to Mr Conacher, if Gosford Council failed to develop management plans for the Peninsula’s reserves, it could be in breach of the Local Government Act. Mr Conacher said that in reclassifying reserves the council had to pay regard to State Environmental Planning Policy 19 (SEPP 19), which covered the management of bushland in urban areas.

He said SEPP19 spelt out what Gosford Council must do if it intended to reclassify community bushland with characteristics of remnant vegetation. According to Mr Conacher, SEPP19 stated that councils should give priority to retaining bushland unless it can prove a significant social, economic or environmental benefit for reclassifying it. Its over-arching objective is to “protect and preserve bushland within urban areas… to protect remnants of plant communities which were once characteristic of land; to retain bushland in parcels of a size and configuration which will enable the existing plants and animal communities to survive in the long term”, he said. He said Gosford Council may also be exposing itself to compensation claims if it had acquired land at a price based on its unimproved value and then by rezoning, perhaps for residential development, its value per hectare is increased. He said the original vendor may have a case for being compensated for that valuation difference. Mr Conacher also questioned why Gosford Council has launched its land sale strategy now and not undertaken a review of its land holdings when the Local Environment Plan was drafted in

Issue 125

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Andrew Church is Citizen of the Year

ight of Gosford City’s ﬁnest citizens and community groups have been recognised at the annual Australia Day Community Awards on January 25, held for the ﬁrst time during special Australia Day eve celebrations in Gosford.

Jumbuck Reserve in Jumbuck Close, Woy Woy

Gosford Council land sale may breach Act, says consultant Gosford Council may be in breach of the Local Government Act and State planning policy in its management and proposed sale of council-owned land on the Peninsula, according to an East Gosford environmental consultant.

2013. “The Gosford LEP was a 15year process. They had four or five goes at it so surely reviewing community holdings would have been part of that process,” he said. SEPP 19 instructs councils that, when drafting an LEP, council should have regard to the priority of retaining bushland, he said. “Why wasn’t it identified that they needed for residential purposes?” He also questioned whether the resale of the reserves currently listed would be viable. “If you were a private developer wanting to develop those lands for residential development, you’d first have to apply for rezoning and you would have to find biodiversity offsets. “You would have to find land of a similar nature and similar locality at a ratio of 10 to one. “It is usually the person applying for the rezoning that has to find those offsets and that is why if Gosford Council goes ahead to sell those reserves the person buying the land could do their due diligence and may find requirements of the Local Government Act haven’t been met.” Interview, 20 Jan 2016 Phil Conacher, Conacher Consulting

THIS ISSUE contains 53 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info Ofﬁce: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

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Carnage at Avoca Beach

Issue 84

Chinese theme park Heads of Agreement signed y o n g C o u n c i l ’s acting CEO, Mr Rob Noble has conﬁrmed that a new Heads of Agreement has been signed between the council and the Australia China Theme Park (ACTP) Pty Ltd concerning the $10 million purchase of land at Warnervale for ACTP’s proposed Chinese theme park.

Most Peninsula commuters make 10 trips a week by train according to Ms Kathy Smith

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EPA accused of failure to regulate landﬁll run-off

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Issue 83

$300 million project recommended to Joint Regional Planning Panel he Joint Regional Planning Panel is expected to approve a $298 million staged mixed use development at 78 to 118 The Entrance Road when it meets at Wyong on Monday, December 14.

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Surf live savers and ambulance ofﬁcers set up a triage in the car park at Avoca Beach to treat casualties on Australia Day

t least 20 people were knocked off their feet and smashed against rocks near the cliffs at the southern end of Avoca Beach at lunch time on Australia Day.

Two people with critical injuries needed to be transported to hospital and another ﬁve, also with critical injuries required ambulance attention. Director of life saving for Surf Life Saving Central Coast, Mr Brett Beswick, who was ﬁrst on the scene at Avoca, described the incident as “carnage”. Mr Beswick said the incident occurred about 100 metres around the corner from the southern end of Avoca Beach on the ocean side near the spot known locally as the “mermaid pools.” “Three families had come up from Sydney for the day, they were picnicking near the pine trees near the car park at the southern end of Avoca Beach but they decided to go for a walk to give their kids a play in the mermaid pools,” Mr Beswick said. According to Mr Beswick, Central Coast

beaches are currently experiencing what he described as a “long interval swell” due to the prevailing cyclonic conditions off the Queensland coast. This means the lull between sets of waves can be very long and conditions may look ﬂat for 15 minutes or more at a time. “When the wave does hit, it can be unusually powerful because it has such a long time for the energy and power to build up,” Mr Beswick said. The wave that struck at Avoca on Australia Day was strong enough to knock at least 20 people off their feet and towards the cliffs. Fortunately, none were pulled back into the sea, although rescue craft were launched from the beach and several surf life savers reached the area on their rescue boards. Mr Beswick said it was fortunate that the incident coincided with a life-saver

shift change, which meant there were more life savers on hand than at other times. “Five people needed to be carried out on stretchers,” he said. The person with the most critical injuries suffered a broken leg and arm, another had a broken ankle and a dislocated elbow and a third had a dislocated shoulder. Others were treated for serious cuts with one man requiring 30 stitches to his leg and a 10-year-old boy was treated for concussion. Mr Beswick said those who sustained the most serious injuries were aged from 30 to in their 60s. “The junior life savers who were just out of nippers and doing their ﬁrst season of patrols did an amazing job of caring for and bandaging those with minor injuries and just comforting the people who were in pain,” he said. “Other families having picnics at the beach gave

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Residents rally for performing arts precinct ver two h u n d r e d G o s f o r d residents attended a rally on Sunday, January 24 to continue to campaign for a performing arts precinct on the site of the former Gosford Public School.

Multi Arts Confederation vice president Ms Victoria (Fi) Hopkins said the “common denominator” for those gathered was “misinformation, back door deals and a lack of consultation with the community” from all levels of government. “The catalyst for the rally was the demolition of Gosford Public School on the promise of a Regional Performing Arts Cultural Precinct to be built in its place,” Ms Hopkins said. “However, the Liberal party announced last year that the Australian Tax Office will be built in the prime position,” she said. “The community categorically does not agree with anything other than a Regional Performing Arts Cultural Precinct on the earmarked former Gosford Public school site.

Demonstrators form a heart to symbolise Gosford’s need for a cultural heart

“We do not agree with a sterile office building being built on this site. “As the vice president of MAC, advocate for the arts and a concerned citizen of Gosford, I am in favour of development in Gosford which takes into account all aspects of community design, and development which at its core, benefits tourism and the economy. “I am also very concerned at the broken

promises and ask the Liberal Party to honour the people of Gosford and build a Regional Performing Arts Cultural Precinct on this site and no other. “There is a threat of our crown land being seized for development and a lot of people see that it may not be in the best interests of the people of the Central Coast. “It seems to have a lot more to do with developers’ interests and government

interests.” Ms Hopkins said it was great for groups like FOPAP that all three levels of government have now committed to fund a performing arts centre but that was only for an expansion of the Coast Conservatorium of Music and a concert hall. “A cultural heart is more of an arts and performance and entertainment precinct there on the school site; that is what the community

was promised through the Gosford Challenge. “A lot could be resolved if there was a clearer answer to why we were told there was going to be a performing arts centre and then ended up with a tax office. “Everyone is saying there is a lack of consultation and a lot of decision making behind closed doors.” In response to suggestions that the performing arts precinct

could be integrated into the triple tower Waterside development that has been approved for the opposite corner of Mann St and Georgiana Tce, Ms Hopkins said: “I think unfortunately shoving it somewhere where it could have the potential to disappear into a private developer’s building means we might be at risk of losing it altogether because the community has no say about what goes on in a privately-owned building. “Working at Gosford station, I see people leaving early in the morning to work Monday to Friday, and on the weekends they leave Gosford because there is nothing here to make them stay. “Gosford needs to be supported and that could be achieved through the arts. “A precinct on the waterfront could attract touring companies. “In my mind it is a no brainer, it can be selffunding and can attract businesses around it.” Ms Hopkins said the next community event will take place on February 14. Interview, Jan 25, 2016 Victoria ‘Fi’ Hopkins, Multi Arts Confederation

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135 people from 38 different countries became Australian citizens

Sen O’Neill with new Australian citizen Mr Ashish Harshadbhai Patel Sen Deborah O'Neill with Maire and Adrian Brennan and their three daughters who were given citizenship while their youngest was born in Australia

SW Senator Deborah O’Neill said she enjoyed welcoming new Australian citizens at a citizenship ceremony in Gosford on Australia Day, January 26.

“Becoming an Australian citizen is a great honour in itself, but becoming a citizen on Australia Day is a truly special occasion,” Sen O’Neill said. “This day celebrates what we have accomplished together as a nation and commits us to making Australia an even better place in the future,” she said. This year, 135 people from 38 different countries became Australian citizens at the Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony at the

Laycock Street Community Theatre in North Gosford. “I encourage new citizens to involve themselves in their local community and to have their say on important issues affecting our nation by enrolling to vote,” Sen O’Neill said. “Australia Day is a great day to reflect on what it means to be an Australian and the wonderful opportunities we have living in this country. “My parents and the parents and grandparents of millions of Australians

made a decision for the future when they chose to make Australia their home, so their children would have a better life than they had themselves. “Australia Day means many different things to different people. “This in itself is a reflection of the freedom we enjoy as a democratic country and the widespread and rich diversity of our citizens and communities. Media release, Jan 25, 2016 Scott Coomber, office of Deborah O’Neill

It is time to be dancing in the streets of Gosford, not protesting t is time to be dancing in the streets of Gosford, not protesting, according to federal member for Robertson, Ms Lucy Wicks.

Ms Wicks released a statement on Friday, January 22 in response to several community protests that took place on the weekend of January 23 and 24 focused on the need for Gosford to have a cultural precinct and on the decision to locate an Australian Taxation Office building on the site of the former Gosford Public School. “For the first time, we finally have money to build a regional performing arts

centre in Gosford,” Ms Wicks said. “The Turnbull G o v e r n m e n t ’ s announcement just before Christmas of $10 million towards this $30 million project means decades of waiting for a world class cultural heart in Gosford is over,” she said. “So why are there still protests about this issue? “Shouldn’t we be celebrating? “After more than 50

years of debate, we have never had the funding to see a performing arts centre actually built, until now. “So if you really want an innovative cultural hub with more jobs, it’s time to be dancing, not protesting, in the streets of Gosford,” she said. Media statement, Jan 22, 2016 Tim Sowden, office of Lucy Wicks

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Public meeting calls for proper consultation over land sell-off large crowd attended the public meeting against the proposed reclassification and sell-off of local reserves, parks and green spaces by Gosford Council.

Around 200 residents attended the meeting on January 19 to show their opposition to council’s plans and voice their concerns about the loss of community space and lack of community consultation. Representatives from five local groups spoke about what their local patch of green space means to their communities, said Save Central Coast Reserves representative, Ms Sue Chidgey. “These included environmental values, opportunities for recreation, providing places for the community to meet and thrive and also spaces to get away from the stresses of daily life,” Ms Chidgey said.

Wamberal reserve is one of the community land parcels listed for reclassification

“Community members also voiced their concerns at the lack of consultation by Gosford Council leading up to this meeting. “Questions were asked as to why Gosford Council needs to sell off $21 million worth of community reserves, parks and green

spaces if they are in financial surplus as reported in the press,” she said. “We also believe that in some cases, the public land was gifted to Council for community purposes,” Community Environment Network CEO, Ms Jane Smith said.

“This move by Gosford Council is alarming,’ Ms Smith said. “We are calling on Gosford Council to develop a documented Strategy that goes out for community consultation,” she said. “This strategy should identify any public land they

propose to sell, information about how that land came in to public ownership, and an assessment of the true economic, social and environmental value of the land. “Importantly, Council should be talking to local communities about what this public land means to them,” Ms Smith said. Local environmental consultant, Mr Phil Conacher spoke in support of the campaign and provided a technical overview of the process. Cr Gabby Bowles attended the meeting to speak about why she has supported the proposed sell-off to date. This was countered by Cr Vicki Scott who voted against the proposed sale and commended the community for rallying together. The meeting was also attended by member for The Entrance, Mr David Mehan and federal Labor candidate, Ms Anne

Charlton. At the end of the meeting, attendees voted overwhelmingly in favour of the following motion: “That Gosford Council: withdraw from sale those sites in Stage One and Stage Two that are classified as operational land and halt the process of reclassifying community land; develop a strategy that is put out on exhibition for public comment; and, undertake community engagement with the local community and interested stakeholders to assess the true social, environmental and economic value of any sites being considered as having sale potential. “We hope that Gosford Council will keep the community fully informed throughout this process and that communities are listened to,” Ms Chidgey said. Media release, Jan 20, 2016 Sue Chidgey, Save Central Coast Reserves

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External consultant commissioned to advise on land under consideration for sale osford Council has responded to claims that it could be in breach of the Local Government Act and State Environmental Planning Policy SEPP19 for failing to have management plans in place for its community land holdings.

Under the Act, all land owned by a local council that is classified as community land must have a management plan prepared for it according to local environmental consultant, Mr Phil Conacher. Mr Conacher said he had made requests for copies of the management plans for some parcels of community land that have been listed for reclassification and potential sale in stage one and stage two of Gosford Council’s current land sale strategy. “I have particularly concentrated on East Gosford Reserve because that is what I started with,” Mr Conacher said. “Council couldn’t find a management plan for it [East Gosford Reserve] and if they can’t find it, in my view, that means they don’t have one. “There was a plan of management for community land, natural areas and bushland prepared by council in 2002.

“Under the Local Government Act council can prepare a generic plan of management but must identify what land is included in it,” he said. According to Mr Conacher, the Gosford Council document has a schedule attached which lists which parcels of land were included. All councils in NSW had to classify all their land holdings when the Act came into law in 1993. “All land had to be identified, even if it was a 1920 subdivision or a person may have gifted land and expect council to look after it as a reserve for the sake of that family, a management plan had to be put in place,” he said. Gosford Council’s chief executive officer, Mr Paul Anderson said: “The majority of Gosford Council’s community land falls under the Community Parks Plan of Management (CPPOM) - July 1996. “In accordance with the

State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) 19 specifically covers the management of bushland in urban areas. Local Government Act, SEPP19 spells out what parcels of land acquired Gosford Council must do or reclassified after July if it intends to reclassify 1996 are still managed community bushland with in accordance with the characteristics of remnant CPPOM principles,” Mr vegetation. Anderson said. According to Mr According to the Local Conacher, SEPP19 states Government Act, land that councils should give owned by a council must priority to retaining bushland be classified as either unless it can prove a operational or community. significant social, economic Operational land includes or environmental benefit for any land used for the general reclassifying it. operations of council and Its over-arching objective includes depots, roads, and is to “protect and preserve other infrastructure. bushland within urban Community land is areas… to protect remnants defined as land that is not of plant communities which operational and is generally were once characteristic public open spaces such of land; to retain bushland as parks, reserves and in parcels of a size and conservation areas. configuration which will Community land can enable the existing plants come into council ownership and animal communities to in a variety of ways: survive in the long term.” crown land transferred Mr Conacher said to council by the state Jumbuck Close reserve is government; land set aside a “classic example” of how, for community use as part without a management plan of a development approval; in place or adherence to or bequeathed to council SEPP19, council could be from families, individuals or damaging any endangered community organisations. ecological species or ADVERTISEMENT

remnant flora present on the site. “The appointment of councillors requires them to follow the rules, just like we have to follow traffic rules or get fined if we don’t,” he said. According to Gosford Council CEO, Mr Anderson: “SEPP 19 relates to the protection and preservation of bushland within urban areas. “In the case of regionally significant vegetation issues, Council employs appropriate experts to manage and maintains sites. “The identified sites for stage one and stage two have only been flagged for possible sale by Council at this point. “There has been no final recommendation to sell community land parcels. “Council has now commissioned an external consultant to consider all aspects relevant to each parcel under consideration. “The report will be an extensive document and is expected to be provided to Council within the next two to three months. “The review of this land, which has been held by

Council for many years, is a healthy process. “Under the Public Works Act, a fully informed and transparent review of all parcels must occur. “This review will include a public hearing, where community members will have the opportunity to speak for or against any land reclassification. “The community will be provided with twenty eight days’ notice before each public hearing,” Mr Anderson said. However, Mr Conacher said Gosford Council may also be exposing itself to compensation claims if they have acquired land at a price based on its unimproved value and then by rezoning, perhaps for residential development, its value per hectare is increased, the original vendor may have a case for being compensated for that valuation difference. Interview, 20 Jan 2016 Phil Conacher, Conacher Consulting Emails, Jan 25, 2016 Paul Anderson, Gosford Council Jackie Pearson, journalist

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Community to rally over public land sell-off

Geoffrey Grenfell surprised at Order of Australia honour r Geoffrey Ivan Grenfell, of Erina Heights has received an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for his service to the community of the Central Coast and to youth in this year’s Australia Day Honours List.

M Delaware Rd Niagara Park is another reserve listed for reclassification and potential sale

community rally will be held outside Gosford Council chambers to highlight community concerns about council plans to reclassify and potentially sell community land.

The rally will take place on Tuesday, February 9 at 6:00pm which is prior to the first Gosford Council meeting for 2016. “Council has already endorsed stage one and stage two of a ‘Land Sale Strategy’ without any public consultation,” according to Ms Sue Chidgey from Save Central Coast Reserves.” At the council meeting on February 9, it is expected a motion will be put forward by Cr Vicki Scott to change Council’s direction and withdraw a number of the lots in question,” Ms Chidgey said. “The rally will highlight the community’s concerns over Gosford Council’s proposed reclassification and sell-off of 25 public reserves, parks and green spaces. “Most of the lands in question have vital

community and/or environmental benefits to residents. “It is staggering that Council is not consulting with communities to properly discuss the true value of these lands. “As people become aware of what council is proposing, they have been quick to band together to call for a better, more transparent process and community consultation. “Already five neighbourhood groups have formed to fight for their special community sites and in addition, an ‘umbrella’ facebook page has been created (Save Central Coast Reserves) to provide community members with a ‘go to’ place to get information on the campaign and to offer support.

“Council wants to sell-off these 25 lots of community land to make $21 million dollars to boost its infrastructure funds. “Questions are being asked about why it is necessary to sell community land when the Council has stated that it has a large financial surplus. “Council to date has not informed communities of their plans and their intentions have been spread through the media, social media and word of mouth. “When councillors have been questioned on council’s lack of transparency and community collaboration they say that the community will be notified and approached for comment later down the ‘process’.” The February 9 rally follows a public meeting on January 19, with around

200 people attending who overwhelming voted on a motion calling for Gosford Council to withdraw from sale those sites in stage one and stage two that are classified as operational land and halt the process of reclassifying community land. The public meeting was supported by Save Central Coast Reserves, Save East Gosford Reserve, Friends of Winter Close, Save Jumbuck Crescent Reserve, Wamberal Action Group and the Community Environment Network. “We hope that all community members from Patonga to Forresters Beach will stand up on February 9 and let the Council know that they do not consent to the sale by Gosford Council of community lands. Media release, Jan 27, 2016 Sue Chidgey, Save Central Coast Reserves

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“I did not know who had nominated me prior to the offer of the Medal of the Order of Australia, which included the list of organisations I have been involved in,” Mr Grenfell told Coast Community News. “My reaction to the original offer of the award in October 2015, was indeed incredible, and I could hardly believe that I would be considered and that I justified the offer,” he said. “I knew of so many other friends and recipients who deserved the recognition and I was shocked to think that I was considered.” From 1975 to 1976, Mr Grenfell was the president of the Rotary Club of Gosford and from 2007 to 2010 and 2012 to 2013, he was the executive club director of the Rotary Foundation. Mr Grenfell’s involvement with the Scouting movement included: the role of honorary commissioner, Hunter and Coastal Region, Scouts NSW since 1996; honorary commissioner, Newcastle and Hunter Area between 1993 and 1993; district leader of development, Gosford District from 1987 to 1993; district commissioner from

1980 to 1987; district leader from 1979 to 1980; and, district cub leader from 1978 to 1979. Mr Grenfell has also been honorary director of Lasercraft Australia, an organisation that provides vocational support for people with disabilities, since 1987. “I am still involved in Rotary International, Rotary in Australia and many of its community services,” he said. “My life has been affected by all the other organisations that I have been involved in and I have enjoyed helping others in need. “I don’t believe the award will change my current community activities however, I am honoured to think other colleagues who have set the standards have seen fit to recognise my efforts,” Mr Grenfell said. Media release, Jan 18, 2016 Debbie Bowden, office to the official secretary to the Governor-General Interview, Jan 20, 2016 Geoffrey Ivan Grenfell, Erina Heights Victoria Power, journalist

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Kibbleplex sold but community not trusted with any details ix months after announcing its decision to sell the former Marketplace Shopping Centre (also known as Kibbleplex), Gosford Council has still not disclosed details of the buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future to the community.

The building, located in Henry Parry Dve and currently vacant except for the roof and one storey used for free commuter car parking, was purchased by Gosford Council in 2011 to be redeveloped into a community hub and regional library. In July 2015, Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s chief executive officer, Mr Paul Anderson said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;For almost two years we have been trying to work out what to do with the building and how we would finance and structurally alter that building to enable us to potentially look at a library and a university presence.â&#x20AC;? Council resolved to sell the building and find another location for a regional library, smart work hub and university presence. Between July and December, Coast Community News made multiple requests to Mr Anderson and Gosford mayor, Cr Lawrie McKinna for more information about the sale of Kibbleplex following community concern. Each time the answer was that they would make the details of the sale public when the contract was signed or that they could not divulge information because

The report to Gosford Council from CEO Mr Paul Anderson with key facts redacted

of the commercially-sensitive nature of the transaction. In October, Cr Vicky Scott gained support for a motion for Mr Anderson to present a detailed report to an open council meeting by the end of November outlining: purchase price of Kibbleplex and the way Gosford Council paid for the property; why the property wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t put out to tender, or for expressions of interest; why there was no public consultation; whether the property has been sold; who the purchaser is; what is the purchase price; and what is the intended use of the money realised. In response to the motion, a report was attached to the minutes of the ordinary meeting of Gosford Council from November 24, 2015. However, key facts in the report have been â&#x20AC;&#x153;redactedâ&#x20AC;? or blacked out so they are still not on the public record. The report states the purchase was subsidised by a $7 million grant from the Department of Infrastructure, Transport,

Regional Development and Local Government (DITRD). A condition of the grant was that the two upper levels provide 400 community parts for five years. This commitment expires on February 29, 2016. The report said that â&#x20AC;&#x153;a strong expression of interest was received which progressed to offered terms being made for the property. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In light of these terms, council obtained independent expert opinions and made significant enquiries to ensure any recommended decision was in the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best interests.â&#x20AC;? Gosford council commissioned a valuation report but key points including the current market value of the property were redacted. The parts of the report that were not redacted stated the valuation reflected councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s current development incentives which permitted excesses of 30 per cent above existing height limits

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and floor space ratios. Based on the valuation report, council formed five opinions, four and a half of which have been redacted. The only part of the five actions Council decided upon that was made available to the community was: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Council should deal with the interested party, retaining the ability to go to market, if its objectives were not achievedâ&#x20AC;?. Council sought independent legal advice and was told the tendering requirements of the Local

Government Act didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t apply to the sale of Kibbleplex referring to Section 55(3). Council then formed the opinion it was free to deal with the property outside the Local Government Act tendering provisions. The next paragraph, which states: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Prior to dealing with the offer and noting the valuerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s opinion...â&#x20AC;? has been redacted. Council then negotiated an agreed price, which has been blacked out. In response to the question: â&#x20AC;&#x153;why was there no public consultation regarding the sale?â&#x20AC;?, Mr Andersonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s report said ongoing consultation and feedback was provided between 2011 and 2015 and none of the information in this section of the report was redacted. The report said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;A sale of the property is yet to complete but Council exchanged contracts to sell in Octoberâ&#x20AC;? but the amount paid as a deposit has also been blacked out. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is very likely the sale will proceed with settlement on March 1, 2016,â&#x20AC;? the report said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This date allows council

to deliver vacant possession of the property as per the purchaserâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s requirements,â&#x20AC;? it said. The name of the purchaser and the purchase price have been deleted from the report. According to the report, council intends to use money raised from the sale of Kibbleplex for the preparation of a CBD parking strategy, relocating the Smart Work Hub, funding towards the delivery of a new library, 50 plus centre and education facilities at the Broadwater Hotel site in Mann St. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The significant funds released from the sale of Kibbleplex can contribute towards a variety of economic, community, educational and other opportunities. â&#x20AC;&#x153;These were not deliverable within the Kibbleplex building where these funds have been invested to date.â&#x20AC;? Meeting minutes, Nov 24, 2015 Gosford Council ordinary meeting minutes 2015/19 page 399

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OAM for Denise Begg

Mayor agrees to meet garbage truck operators after successful media campaign o s f o r d ’ s garbage truck operators have said they are thankful that the city’s mayor, Cr Lawrie McKinna has agreed to meet their representatives to discuss employment conditions they want included in the council’s next waste services tender.

Local truck operator and Transport Workers Union (TWU) representative, Mr Ian Hankinson said the 70 garbage truck operators had been asking for a meeting with Cr McKinna since August 2014 and were relieved that he had agreed to a meeting in the second week of February. The waste truck operators and their union, the TWU, want Gosford Council to insert clauses in their tender document to protect their rate of pay and the permanent and full-time nature of their jobs. A delegation of 60 truck operators met on the footpath outside Gosford Council’s head office in Mann St, Gosford on January 18 and resolved unanimously to write an open letter to the community about their concerns. The drivers agreed to meet again outside the council building on January 27 if Cr McKinna didn’t agree to meet with them, but he has since agreed to

Independent candidate for Robertson, Mr Van Davy (left) with local waste truck operator Mr Ian Hankinson

a meeting. According to Mr Hankinson, other local councils, including Campbelltown, Canada Bay, Wollongong and Ryde, have included clauses in their tender documents to protect their waste collection workers’ pay rates and job security. Mr Hankinson said local operators will urge Cr McKinna to insert a similar clause into Gosford Council’s tender document, which is due for a period of public consultation before the end of April. He said the type of clause the waste trust operators are looking for would state that the “contractor must, as a minimum requirement, preserve employee pay rates and pay-related conditions”. At the moment, tenders for Gosford Council’s waste

services are granted on a competitive basis with price being a major determinant. “Remondis, as the current provider and employer of the operators, won’t even be able to tender at our current rates of pay because they will be undercut by at least $8 per hour because that is what other contractors will tender at,” Mr Hankinson said. “We could lose $8 an hour and have to reapply for our jobs if a new contractor comes in,” he said. “If we get this clause in the council’s tender document, we won’t have to go through this every seven years,” he said. He is also concerned about the city’s waste service employees becoming casualised. “Casuals have the right to become permanent after a period of time but

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January 19, 2016

Issue 82

r Phil Walker, chair of Regional Development Australia Central Coast, has congratulated Gosford and Wyong Councils on their agreement to voluntarily merge as part of the NSW Government’s Fit for the Future reform process.

“The decision to voluntarily merge will ensure that our community will now have an opportunity to have a say in how our new Central Coast Council will be formed and that the region will be able to access $20 million in support from the NSW Government, to assist offsetting a small portion of the total amalgamation costs that will occur,” Mr Walker said. “ R e g i o n a l Development Australia

osford and W y o n g Councils have agreed to an historic, voluntary merger as part of the NSW Government’s Fit for the Future reform package. Both Councils submitted their merger preference to the NSW Government before the November 18 deadline – with it likely that a Central Coast council could be proclaimed late December and come into effect early next year. Gosford mayor, Cr Lawrie McKinna said the agreement was a deﬁning moment in the Central Coast’s history. “Although time was against us, I’m very pleased with how both Councils have worked hard to protect the interests of their communities and the Central Coast,” Cr McKinna said. “I’m conﬁdent that this monumental decision to voluntarily merge means that the community’s voice will not be lost, which is something the NSW Government couldn’t guarantee under a potential forced amalgamation. “We’ll also have access to $20 million in support from the NSW Government for the voluntary merger that will make sure funding from our recent operating surpluses is not diverted away from vital service, facility and infrastructure improvements.

“There’s no doubt that merging our two organisations will be challenging, but my fellow Gosford councillors and I are looking forward to working alongside our Wyong counterparts to achieve the best outcome for the residents of the Central Coast,” he said. Wyong’s deputy mayor, Cr Lynne Webster, said she was pleased Gosford Council was coming to the party and agreed voluntary amalgamation is the only way to go. “The only way now is forward. “We have to work together to ensure a Central Coast Council continues to deliver the best possible services our community need and want. “I believe we can do it and this decision means we have secured a much needed $20 million injection of funding for our

region. “This decision will put the Central Coast on the map as a region in its own right and I believe will ensure we get a lot more funding and recognition in the future.” Gosford’s CEO, Mr Paul Anderson and Wyong’s acting CEO, Mr Rob Noble will now meet to create a staff transition team and start on plans to amalgamate the two Councils. An informal meeting of the two councils will be held at Wyong Council chambers on Wednesday, December 4, which will be the ﬁrst time the two councils have met since deciding on the merger. Media release, Nov 16, 2015 Gosford and Wyong Council media Meeting transcript, Nov 25, 2015 Wyong Council general meeting Jackie Pearson, journalist

Central Coast’s board addressing the region’s members look forward to higher than average working with all sectors unemployment rate. to ensure that the best “We look forward to outcomes are achieved assisting all levels of for the entire Central government, business and the community to Coast,” he said. “ R e g i o n a l proactively work together Development Australia to deliver the vibrant and Central Coast is conﬁdent successful future that the decision to form the the Central Coast rightly one united entity will deserves,” Mr Walker allow the Central Coast said. to proactively brand Media release, Nov 18, 2015 and market itself as a Elizabeth Westrup, Regional desirable region to visit, Development Australia live and invest, December which in Central Coast 11, 2015 time will greatly assist in

ne of Wyong’s Save Tuggerah Lakes Party councillors, Cr Lloyd Taylor, has accused Lake Macquarie City Council of wanting to steel Wyong Council’s money.

He has been critical of moves by Lake Macquarie Council to see the Wyong Local Government Area cut in half at Sparks Rd and absorbed into Gosford to the South and Lake Macquarie to the north. “Lake Macquarie Council is trying to dispense with the Wyong Local Government Area by making a recommendation to the State Government to cut Wyong in two,” Cr Taylor said. “Neither Lake Macquarie Council nor Gosford Council have any idea how the community thinks and I

y o n g C o u n c i l ’s acting CEO, Mr Rob Noble has conﬁrmed that a new Heads of Agreement has been signed between the council and the Australia China Theme Park (ACTP) Pty Ltd concerning the $10 million purchase of land at Warnervale for ACTP’s proposed Chinese theme park.

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Mr Noble said he expected the parties to 83 exchange contracts Issue for the sale of the land within the next two or three weeks. Mr Noble said the contract is currently under construction. agreement as a precursor, Mr Noble said he I have no reason to understood a Heads of believe they will not go Agreement to be an ahead and sign a contract agreement to enter into a with us despite the delays contract. that have occurred in the “It sets out the key past,” Mr Noble said. principles and terms “One of the aims around which the contract that council had when is likely to be based. it considered the letter “It is like a guiding received from the document and expression company early last of intent.” November was to work In this instance, Mr with the company towards retail tenancy. Noble said he could the possible creation of a The proposal includes conﬁrm that the Heads of new contract with new two was levels of basement Agreement a written terms and conditions parking document signed byand both rooftop that would be more with Wyong parking Council(179 and spaces) the favourable and less risky shade aboveandthe Australia Chinasails Theme more on commercial Park Ptypodium. Ltd. terms than what had been “Based Above on the retail the space, the case previously,” Mr ThehadEntrance facing discussions we have Noble said. shop topand housing“I iscan’t tell you about Rd,company with the the factproposed, they havecomprising been terms 48or money just yet, preparedresidential to sign a heads apartments of that will come out in due

$300 million project ect recommended to Joint oint Regional Planning Panel

Splitting Wyong Council in two is delusional

am sure our community concerned if we were would not agree with the amalgamated with Lake idea of a “forced retreat” Macquarie that many from the waterfront,” Cr waterfront properties Taylor said. would have restrictions “Lake Macquarie City imposed on them which Council is ‘planning for would affect their 149 he Joint increased flooding and certificates. R e g “Ii o am n a against l and changes to the foreshore a n nthat i n geither Lake lines that may occur as Pa l idea Panel is expected result of sea level rise’,” Macquarie or Gosford lay to approve a $298 a finger on Wyong. he said. mixedonly want “They want tomillion develop staged “They usewhich development Wyong at 78 because our an adaptation plan is double speak are in order and to 118forThefinances Entrance want steal money from no more development Road when it tomeets our region,” he said. on land at Pelican or at Wyong on Monday, Blacksmiths. December 14. Email, Nov 16, 2015 “If a ratepayer Wyong wants Council agreed Lloyd Taylor, Wyong to build a new home, at its they December 9 meeting councillor won’t be permitted. to make a submission to “I had a phone call endorsing the the JRPP from a local indevelopment. Wyong At this stage, the applicant is seeking ‘concept approval only’ Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford for 0940 the works to take Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosfordplace 2250in three operational stages, with subsequent E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net detailed development Website: www.centralcoastnews.net A photomontage of the proposed development within its surrounding coastal context applications being lodged Cr Adam Troy December 9 meeting, viability of town centres,” it is a huge commitment, for each future stage. The development a commitment that very seconded the motion and the project is expected according to the report. The proposed shop top would include demolition few developers can make. said: “It is not every day to generate 660 full time “This is a $300 million you get a $300 million jobs, post construction. housing would include of existing buildings The proposal includes 478 dwellings. and construction of project that will kick start development in council elopment The development a shopping centre the Central Coast and The chambers, it is a milestone a retail podium and two towers and seeks would also encompass Entrance,” Cr Taylor said. on the Central Coast. compass with a supermarket, “This will really kick “It is going to be one variation to a number a 108 room hotel otel and shop top housing, of those focal points, of Wyong Council’s start investment in this parking for 1,433 cars. hotel accommodation, a pretty special place planning controls. The podium would restaurant, multi-purpose tourist Mecca. “It will be the highest and I can’t wait to see it The site is identified as make available 13,250 function space, and a ‘key site’ under Wyong square metres of lettable ancillary parking and building on the Central happen,” he said. The site covers 21,357 LEP 2013 which allows retail space fronting Coast but that is a good other works. square metres and takes for a bonus building Dening St, Taylor St and Moving a motion thing. “It will hopefully kick in the existing Lakeside height of 113.8 metres. The Entrance Rd. for Wyong Council to The bonus building There are two levels endorse the development start other sites and other Plaza Shopping Centre height is provided in return of retail floor space along and surrounding sites. and make a submission areas. “We want businesses According to a for “significant public The Entrance Rd frontage to the JRPP in support of prepared by benefits to be provided and ground floor retail the developer, Cr Lloyd to succeed and grow and report Taylor said: “We need to employ more people and Wyong Council staff to the community and space along the Taylor stimulate further St frontage containing a support the applicant on this development is going for the consideration to of councillors at their development and supermarket and a major this particular one because to deliver.”

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Issue 84

Chinese theme park Heads of Agreement signed

$20 million government

Historic forced support is a small portion of amalgamation costs voluntary merger M agreed to

over three storeys. Within the northern (Dening St) end of the building is a restaurant and function/convention space (at the hotel lobby level). The next level up would be a landscaped level (referred to as the oasis level) which is located directly below the tower buildings and would contain two pools, landscaping, day spa, decks and a bar. Above this level, the development proposes two towers with 250 residential apartments (27 storeys) within a residential tower located on the corner of The Entrance Rd and Dening St. One hundred hotel rooms (6 storeys) and 110 residential apartments (11 storeys) would be located within a second tower building located on the corner of Taylor St and Dening St.

An artists impression

some operators get around that by using labour hire companies.” Mr Hankinson said the use of labour hire companies should be an issue for community concern because current employees are reliable, skilled and make safety a priority. Independent candidate for the federal electorate of Robertson, Mr Van Davy said he has offered his support to the waste truck operators. “Their claim is spectacularly moderate, even gentle,” Mr Davy said. “I have never seen a zero percentage claim for wages like these fellows have lodged.” In their open letter to the community, the operators wrote: “the drivers feel that, despite many years of loyal, safe and competent service to the community, their livelihood is now threatened by decreases in hourly pay rates and replacement of permanent and full time jobs with casual and part time jobs. “We truck operators are skillful and safe; we perform a job which protects the community from vile smells, crawling vermin, flies, disgusting aesthetics and the spread of diseases. “We have heard that an hourly rate of $22.50 is being considered and that permanent jobs will be replaced by casual jobs. “This, if correct, is an awful injustice to the truck operators and a living standards blow to our families – we too have children, home mortgages, bills and fees to pay.” Interview, Jan 22, 2016 Ian Hankinson, TWU Van Davy, independent candidate for Robertson Open letter, Jan 18, 2016 Waste Truck Operators of Gosford and Wyong

Ms Begg has been the group leader of the first Clovelly scout group from 1986 to 2012 and was also Cub Scout Leader from 1980 to 1986. Ms Begg has won a number of awards including: the silver koala for distinguished service, south metropolitan region in 2013; silver wattle for outstanding service in 2006; and, medal

of merit for outstanding service in 1995. Ms Begg also received Waverly Council’s Scroll of Honour for outstanding service rendered to the community in 1991. Media release, Jan 18, 2016 Debbie Bowden, Office to the official secretary to the Governor-General

Draft Central Coast Regional Plan is an important document he NSW Government’s Draft Central Coast Regional Plan will be the subject of a community consultation hosted by the Community Environment Network (CEN).

According to CEN, the draft regional plan is an important document. “The draft plan outlines a vision for the Central Coast over the next 20 years,” said CEO for CEN, Ms Jane Smith. “It will deal with things like where business and residential areas will be in the future, infrastructure needs, how future growth will affect your local suburb, land use including resource extraction and whether the environment is important in future planning,” she said. Representatives from

the department of planning will be attending as well as Cerin Loane from the Nature Conservation Council of NSW. The event will be held at the Central Coast Leagues Club on Thursday evening, January 28. “We need your help and submissions to make sure that the protection of the environment is a cornerstone of the final Central Coast Regional plan,” Ms Smith said. Newsletter, Jan 22, 2016 Jane Smith, Community Environment Network

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Media release, Jan 15, 2016 Wyong Council media Emails, Jan 18, 2016 Interview, Jan 18, 2016 Rob Noble, Wyong Council Jackie Pearson, journalist

Ofﬁce: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

enise Begg of Point Frederick has been awarded an Order of Australia (OAM) for her service to youth through the scouting movement.

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Ofﬁce: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E mail: editorial@centralcoastnews net

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Dam level at record high

Katanda Poultry Farm fined $7,500 by EPA

he NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) issued a $7,500 fine to Katandra Poultry Farm for poor sediment and erosion controls at the company’s Peats Ridge property.

EPA Hunter manager, Mr Adam Gilligan said the EPA investigated Katandra Poultry Farm for potential breaches of its Environment Protection Licence after receiving complaints about environmental impacts from significant amounts of soil which had been imported to the property. “On February 25, 2015 the EPA inspected Katandra Poultry Farm and observed soil deposited on an area of the site covering approximately 27,000 square metres,’ Mr Gilligan said. “Katandra Poultry Farm did not have appropriate measures in place to manage the potential for sediment to erode and be carried off the premises,” he said. Despite the EPA directing Katandra Poultry Farm to immediately install appropriate mitigation controls, follow up inspections showed the farm had failed to do so. “When the EPA returned

to the premises in June 2015, we identified sediment on the surrounding roads that appeared to have been carried by trucks as these left the farm. “The EPA also observed muddy water flowing off the fill area into Popran National Park and sediment laden water in a creek that runs through the property. A subsequent inspection in November 2015 revealed that despite some improvements, the erosion and sediment controls were still inadequate. “Good sediment and erosion controls are important to ensure that the environment and community are protected. “If sediment laden waters leave a site and enter watercourses, this can have a major impact on aquatic organisms. “The EPA expects licensee’s to comply with their licence at all times. “The EPA will take further action, potentially including legal proceedings, if further

breaches occur,” said Mr Gilligan. Penalty notices are one of a number of tools the EPA can use to achieve environmental compliance, including formal warnings, licence conditions, notices and directions, mandatory audits, enforceable undertakings, legally binding pollution reduction programs and prosecutions. The EPA must also take a range of factors into account before delivering a proportionate regulatory response, including the degree of environmental harm, whether or not there are any real or potential health impacts, if the action of the offender was deliberate, compliance history, public interest and best environmental outcomes. Media release, Dec 23, 2015 Adam Gilligan, Environment Protection Authority

Mangrove Creek Weir to be refurbished

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ver $500,000 will be spent by Gosford Council on a series of remedial and refurbishment works to the Mangrove Creek Weir.

Mangrove Creek Weir plays an important role in the delivery of the region’s water supply and is responsible for releasing water from Mangrove Creek Dam into a pumping station, which is then pumped to the Somersby Water Treatment Plant. These works will ensure the structure, which was first constructed in 1975, continues to remain serviceable now and into the future. Email, Nov 10, 2015 Gosford Council media

Mangrove Creek Dam at more than 74 per cent

angrove Creek Dam has reached its highest ever water level.

Water storage levels at Mangrove Creek Dam are now more than 74 per cent and total storage across the Central Coast’s dams has reached 75.6 per cent. Gosford mayor, Cr Lawrie McKinna, said the Central Coast community should be proud of the major role it has played in securing the region’s long-term water supply. “The Australian Government provided funding for part of the Mardi-Mangrove link, but our community picked up the tab for the shortfall and remained committed to water conservation while we were in the grip of a chronic drought,” he said. “Along with many other system improvements, the boost that the link has delivered for our water supply has proved the decision to build the pipeline was well worth the investment. “We are now in a strong position to make sure the community’s current and future water supply needs can be met,” he said. Gosford Council’s director of construction and operations, Mr Stan Antczak, said the councils were being proactive in their future planning. “We are working with our regional partners, including the Department of Primary Industries and Hunter Water, to ensure our water supply remains secure. “Any decision to upgrade Mangrove Creek Dam will need to consider broader, regional water resource planning activities across the Hunter and Central Coast. “It will take a further 10,000 million litres, the equivalent of Mardi Dam plus half of Mooney Mooney Dam, to raise total storage levels to 80 per cent but, in the meantime, we are well prepared for any future droughts.” Wyong deputy mayor, Cr Lynne Webster said this was

an historic moment for the Central Coast. “In February 2007, we had grass growing around the base of the tower at Mangrove Creek Dam and less than 13 per cent in our dams,” Cr Webster said. “Today, the brown line on that tower is gone and we are higher than we have ever been. “It shows the MardiMangrove Link has proven its worth, transferring more than 22 per cent of the capacity of our largest dam in five short years and drought proofing the Central Coast.” In the two weeks to January 20, the MardiMangrove Link harvested 1,532 million litres, or more than 610 Olympic swimming pools of water, for the Central Coast’s future. Wyong Water director, Mr Greg McDonald said recent concerns over the dam levels were unfounded. “It’s no secret that we have a current operating limit of 80 per cent on Mangrove Creek Dam to

ensure it is not damaged by an extreme flood. “This is a common issue for many dams and is due to a new understanding of hydrology and new standards that did not exist when the dam was built,” he said. “Our most recent proposals to the NSW Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) to upgrade the dam included preconstruction activities and construction activities. “Both were rejected for the current IPART determination period, ending June 30, 2017. “We are currently reviewing our options, and until we are sure that spending our ratepayers money on the works required to increase the operating limit is the best option for our water supply system, we will continue to investigate,” he concluded. Media release, Jan 20, 2016 Wyong Water and Gosford Council media

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FORUM

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Merger consultation process has restricted access

he public consultation on the proposal to merge Gosford and Wyong included three public meetings with two of those meetings to be held at Wyong.

The single meeting at Gosford is in the morning. This is an unfair arrangement. Many people by necessity are forced to commute to workplaces outside Wyong and Gosford and the distances from Gosford to Wyong are considerable. It isn’t a 15 minute journey from Woy Woy or Gosford to the venue in Wyong LGA and for someone working throughout the day that may mean they cannot make the morning meeting at Gosford or the evening meeting at Wyong. Could there please be an additional evening meeting in Gosford to make this process fairer for those

FORUM people in the Gosford LGA and make it easier for them to have their say. We keep hearing about the benefit of the merger but none of the downside. I am all for amalgamation but there are too many unanswered questions. For example do the people of Gosford and Wyong have any role at all in determining: the name of the new LGA; number of councillors; whether we will have wards, how many and where? There is a real risk that we could just end up with a Wyong and a Gosford ward.

What debt does each council have now and what are future costs for infrastructure maintenance? Is the $20 million offered by the state government for the new merged council enough for a transition period? Who will benefit from projected savings, state government or ratepayers? Will the state continue to fund councils with the same level of grants? We have only just started this and already the consultation process is flawed. Email, Jan 13 and 20, 2016 Pat Aiken, Saratoga

We already have an Australian Head of State ay Madden’s small piece (CCN, Jan 14) mentions some very important details to be considered, before anything else to do with a change to a republic.

Some very important facts will be the effects on our laws and lifestyle. Too numerous to consider!

FORUM Our lifestyle is the best in

the world, and changing to a republic won’t improve on it – far from it! Mr Barry Riley needs to get his facts right. We already have an Australian Head of State. The Australian GovernorGeneral – His Excellency Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd). Email, Jan 19, 2016 Beryl Robertson, Woy Woy

Former cinema owner comments on Avoca theatre have read with interest your articles (CCN January 14) regarding the Avoca Beach Picture Theatre.

My wife and I owned the Kincumber Ritz Cinemas from 1997 to 2007 and then had to close through lack of support and ever-rising rent. When we bought the business, it was only a single screen, but to survive we had to convert to a twin cinema. Because the cinema was rather wide it was possible to divide it, by putting up a wall one metre off the middle to create one big cinema and one smaller one. Even then, in 1997, we could have done with at least another cinema because restrictions put on us by the film distributers made it hard to make a living. In my opinion, because Avoca only has one screen, the cinema cannot survive, so it will eventually have

FORUM Letters to the editor should be sent to: Coast Community News PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 or mail@gosfordnews.org See Page 2 for contribution conditions

to close its doors and the Avoca Beach Theatre Preservation Society won’t have their precious cinema at all. The only way for Norm and Beth Hunter to continue in business is to expand. Having said that, I do feel their plans are too big and would spoil the area and a smaller expansion would be better, to have two more cinemas and not four.

I understand that to have the apartments, cafe and Gallery/shop/function area would bring in the necessary revenue to subsidise the cinemas when nobody comes. Perhaps this could be done also on a smaller scale. We have retired now and still live in Kincumber, but nearly every time we go to the local shopping centre, someone will come up to us and say how much they miss “their” cinema and we closed over eight years ago, so I can imagine the public reaction if Avoca was to close. That would be a great shame. Email, Jan 20, 2016 Peter Wilkinson, Kincumber

Documented strategy on the management of public lands called for t is with dismay that I am informed that the mayor and councillors of Gosford have collectively passed at least two motions to convert community land to operational land under the pretext of needing operational money from flogging off this land to developers.

This seems strange in light of the fact that the general manager, Mr Paul Anderson, recently stated that Gosford Council ran at a $12 million surplus in financial year 2014-15, once grants were removed from the accounts. The logic of this further escapes me in a week when it was stated by the NSW premier that we need to increase the amount of green spaces in our urban areas to improve the mental health of our children. Previous councils

FORUM deliberately set aside these lands for passive recreation of residents, not to provide a revenue source for spurious and fabricated requirements. I beseech the mayor and councillors to provide Gosford Council with a documented strategy on the management of public lands to conduct effective community consultation before taking any more actions to change the

status or demolish any facilities (such as children’s playground facilities and Wamberal Memorial Hall) on public lands in Gosford. Finally, I urge the mayor and councillors to revoke the conversions of community land to operational land made September 8, and November 10, last year, until the documented strategy on the management of public lands has been completed. Email, Jan 23, 2016 Doug Williamson, Wamberal

January 28, 2016 - Page 13

FORUM

Westminster system works well

n response to Barry Riley’s email (CCN, Jan 14).

Many people, obviously Republicans, know little about Magna Carta and fewer still about its 61 clauses, plus the evolution of our Westminster system of government since June 15, 1215. What will Republicans replace it with? Who is going to pay for their new set of laws, and test them? Barry Riley, talk to those who have lived under a Republic (and I am not talking about the Asian or African dictatorships, but the western style Republics). They would readily appreciate the difference between living under a state-inspired system to living under our system of government. The stability is unparalleled in the world, you are here without fear.

FORUM We don’t need whinging POMs telling us how to run our country. Our Australian head of state is the head of our armed forces. He or she swears in the Prime Minister and can dismiss him. He or she swears in each Member of Parliament and can dismiss a government. Please check the reserve powers of the Governor General of Australia. I did not know respect had a used by date. To grasp the new Republic rules and laws for our country, we have to think things out. I haven’t been able to learn anything of these plans for laws.

The Republicans refuse to be honest with themselves or with the public. They’re running away from telling us their plans and lead us down a blind alley. Please be honest. I am proud of our flag. Our flag honours those who have fought and died to protect it. It reminds us of the sacrifice of our nation’s founders’ heroes. It also serves a reminder of our national history. It is fitting we act to protect it in the battlefields as it is an enduring symbol. Respect does not have a use-by date. Letters, Jan 21, 2016 Ray Madden, East Gosford

VW buyers beware ’d like to send a safety warning to Volkswagen users on the Coast, particularly anybody who has bought an Up!

My Up! Is just a year old, and within days of buying it new, the fancy glass rear hatch started buckling and dimpling on hot days. VW replaced the first one, but their replacement showed the same flaw, and my concerns about the obvious stresses it placed on the glass fell on deaf ears, even though VW had acknowledged it as a fault the first time it appeared. The windscreen eventually exploded into thousands of sharp shards, suddenly and without warning, when I closed the front passenger door.

FORUM VW refused to honour the warranty, even though they knew I had been reporting the fault to them over the previous few months. A search on the web showed that this is a common problem. VW no longer sells the Up! in Australia and Brazil no longer makes them with the glass hatch. But the Australian buyers with the faulty Up!s were on their own, and weren’t warned of the danger. People have already

been injured and I certainly would have been too if I had not been outside the car at the time. The problem is common in Up!s, but other VWs, such as the Passats, have suffered the same exploding windscreen problem, though less commonly. If you own a VW, particularly one with dimpling glass, or if you own any Up!, get a mechanic to check it. You may be in danger. Email, Jan 20, 2016 Sue Robinson, Berkeley Vale

Demand for copies of Coast Community News has been extremely high lately. If you can’t wait to get your copy - read it online! If you lent yours to someone that won’t give it back - read it online! Missed an edi on or want to re-read something - read it online!

Simply go to www.centralcoastnews.net They’re all there and it’s FREE Want to share something you ﬁnd really interes ng, see www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

Other Regional News - In brief Coast Community News focuses on news specifically relating to post code areas 2250, 2251 & 2260. Given the advent of a Greater Central Coast Council in

the near future, following is a summary of news articles published in the most recent edition of each of our sister Central Coast publications. The full articles and more, as well as all previously published editions, can be seen on

line on our website www. CentralCoastNews.net Copies of these other publications may be obtained from our offices in Gosford, by subscription, or from a myriad of locations in the areas covered by each publication.

FREE

January 19, 2016

Your independent community newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369

Issue 84

Wyong Regional Chronicle focuses on news specifically relating to post code areas 2258, 2259, 2261, 2262, & 2263.

Chinese theme park Heads of Agreement signed

Central Coast Tourism could lose support from both councils

Berkeley Vale worst hit by storms

Wyong Council’s acting CEO, Mr Rob Noble has confirmed that a new Heads of Agreement has been signed between the council and the Australia China Theme Park

Central Coast Tourism has been advised that Wyong Council currently has insufficient information to extend its contract.

The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) had registered 150 calls for assistance and around 4,000 were left without power following a storm that hit parts... s

Wyong wastewater pump station being upgraded

Another supermarket approved for Wadalba

Water main break at Gorokan

Wyong Water is starting work on a $4.2 million upgrade of a wastewater pump station in Wyong as the revitalisation of this key suburb in the shire continues.

Wyong Council unanimously approved the development of a Woolworths supermarket adjacent to the Wadalba Village Centre at its December 9 meeting.

Traffic diversions were put in place west-bound on Wallarah Rd, Gorokan following a water main break on Thursday, January 14.

Compliance with conditions of consent at Ourimbah under investigation

Road upgrades near completion

Nine flood bulletins for Tuggerah Lake

Wyong Council is currently investigating the use of the Big Flower site at Ourimbah, including compliance with conditions of consent related to council’s approval of...

Major upgrades of Hume Bvd in Killarney Vale and Kanangra Dve were nearing completion at the beginning of December 2015, according to Wyong Counci

The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) produced nine flood bulletins for Tuggerah Lake between January 5 and 9.

The full articles and more can be seen on our website www.CentralCoastNews.net

Peninsula Community Access Edition 385

News Phone 4325 7369 Fax 4321 0940

25 January 2016

Peninsula News focuses on news specifically relating to post code areas 2256 & 2257.

Gosford Council land sale may breach Act, says consultant

Application for more units in Berith St

Wicks takes up petrol price concerns

Gosford Council may be in breach of the Local Government Act and State planning policy in its management and proposed sale of council-owned...

An application to develop a three-unit residential flat building at 46 Berith St Umina has been received by Gosford Council.

Residents who have concerns about petrol prices have been urged to contact the Federal member for Robertson, Ms Lucy Wicks, and add their name to a...

Mayor hits back about West St flags

Australia Day breakfast planned

Gosford mayor Cr Lawrie McKinna has hit back claims by the Peninsula Chamber of Commerce that Gosford Council was not honoring an agreement to install Australia Day flags along West St, Umina

The Bays Community Group’s Australia Day breakfast will be held in the community hall on Sunday, January 31.

Brisbane Water Local Area Command police have completed a fruitless search of Brisbane Water National Park for people reportedly needing help.

CEN urges community action

Meeting told of shortage of urban green space

Waterfront restaurant hopes to renovate and extend

Community Environment Network has urged community members to take further steps to encourage Gosford Council to “cease the sale and reclassification...

The Peninsula has a shortage of suburban green spaces, a public meeting in Gosford has been told.

A waterfront restaurant at Woy Woy hopes to renovate its upstairs manager’s unit and build an addition to the rear wharf of the existing restaurant.

Police end search

The full articles and more can be seen on line on our website www.CentralCoastNews.net They can also be seen on www.PeninsulaNews.info

ON THE BEAT

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Cruiser rescued after anchor line tangled in propellers

Koolewong woman nearly choked to death

man has been charged after he allegedly choked a woman at Koolewong on Friday, January 15.

A man and a woman became involved in an altercation at a home in Glenrock Parade where the man allegedly placed the woman in a chokehold causing her to cough up blood. The woman was able to get the man to stop and

On Tuesday, January 19, about 2:50pm, the Marine Rescue volunteers on duty in the Radio Room at Point Clare Base, Mr Ian Radford and Mr Ken Thuaux, received a VHF radio call from the skipper of a 9.6m motor cruiser with four people on board. The skipper advised that the cruiser was off Long Reef and its anchor line was caught in its twin propellers and the vessel was drifting towards the shoreline at Dee Why. The need was urgent as the vessel would likely be

ashore at Dee Why before the Central Coast rescue vessel could reach the area. Operators at Marine Rescue Sydney overheard the radio conversation, and understanding the urgency, advised that the Marine Rescue Middle Harbour rescue vessel could assist the cruiser within 30 minutes. With the rescue organised, Central Coast 21 with crew Gordon Ellis, Max

Landells and Geoff Warr was despatched to meet the Middle Harbour vessel off Iron Ladder Beach to complete the tow back to the cruiser’s berth at a private jetty at Daleys Point. Around 6:00pm the two rescue vessels met and the tow was exchanged with the cruiser finally arriving at its berth around 6.45pm, much to the relief of the owner and his crew. Media release, Jan 22, 2016 Ron Cole, Marine Rescue Central Coast

Bowrider stranded in mangroves arine Rescue Central Coast received a distress call from the owner of a 6.0m Searay Bowrider on January 16.

The Bowrider had suffered an engine failure stranding the five people on board in mangroves on the north-western end of Brisbane Water. Rescue vessel, Central Coast 21, was tasked to

had it in tow. It was taken to a private jetty at Green Point. assist. Marine Rescue skipper Mr Bob White and his crew, quickly located the boat and

Media release, Jan 18, 2016 Ron Cole, Marine Rescue Central Coast

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PLEASE DONATE NOW SALVOS.ORG.AU/HOPE 13 SALVOS (13 72 58)

Media Release, Jan 16, 2016 NSW Police media

Possible armed robbery at Niagara Park foiled

Marine Rescue Central Coast towed the cruiser to Daleys Point

cruiser was rescued off Long Reef as it drifted towards the shoreline.

contacted a relative to come to the address who took her to Gosford Hospital. A short time later, a 41 year old man presented himself at Woy Woy Police Station where he was

arrested. The man was refused bail and appeared before Wyong Local Court on Saturday, January 16 before being remanded in custody.

olice are appealing for information following an attempted armed robbery in Niagara Park on Sunday, January 24.

About 9:40pm, three men were seen acting suspiciously near a tavern on Washington Ave. A security guard at the premises found the men behind a door of the building, one armed with a firearm and one with a sword, before they fled the scene.

Officers attached to Brisbane Waters Local Area Command were notified and commenced investigations. The men are all described as being about 20-yearsold; with one wearing a grey hooded- jumper and

dark pants; and the other two wearing dark hoodedjumpers and pants. Any witnesses who have not yet spoken to police are urged to contact local police via Crime Stoppers. Media Release, Jan 25, 2016 NSW Police media

Where’s William Tyrrell?

ustralia Day has marked 501 days since William Tyrrell was abducted from his nana’s yard as he played just metres from his family at Kendall.

It also tragically marks the 50th anniversary on the disappearance of the Beaumont children. Moreover, it marks 50 years of silence on the part of the person or persons who knew something of their disappearance. “There could be no better day than on Australia Day when we as a nation celebrate all that is great about this country, to also reflect on what is not great,” Australia’s leading child protection advocate and spokesperson for William’s family, Ms Hetty Johnston AM said. “What is not great is that 50 years on, something as insidious as the abduction of a child can still happen in this country; that William, the little boy in the spider man

suit could simply vanish, taken from those he loved, and the person or persons who know something about his disappearance can still remain silent” Ms Johnston said. If you have seen William or have any information relating to his disappearance, make the call to Crime Stoppers now on 1800 333 000 or contact Crime Stoppers

online reporting page nsw. crimestoppers.com.au “Every piece of information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, could provide the vital clue Police are looking for. “As a society it’s time to say enough. “We need William found and found now, and returned to the loving arms of his Mum and Dad where he belongs,” she said. For information about William visit www. whereswilliam.org or “Where’s William Tyrrell? Bring Him Home” – official Facebook page w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / whereswilliam. Email, Jan 23, 2016 Clare Collins, Where’s William?

Coast Community News - January 28, 2016 - Page 15 C SShare

Two acts of indecency in North Gosford olice charged a man following allegedly two acts of indecency in North Gosford.

At around 1:00pm on Friday, January 15, an 87-year-old woman was in her home on Gertrude St when a man knocked on the door. The man allegedly tricked the woman and entered the home. While in the home, the man allegedly committed an act of indecency before leaving. The woman called police. Officers from Brisbane Water Local Area Command attended and commenced an investigation. While making inquiries, investigators spoke to another woman, aged 45. She told police that a man allegedly entered her home on Gertrude St in September of 2015 and allegedly committed an act of indecency, which she did not report. On Monday, January 18, investigators arrested a 39-year-old man in a hospital in Gosford.

Peninsula Community Access Edition 383

Anyone with information about these incidents should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 He was charged with “commit act of indecency” for both of the alleged incidents. A bedside hearing was held where he was formally refused bail to appear at Gosford Local Court on Tuesday, February 9. Inquiries are continuing and investigators are appealing for anyone with relevant information to contact Gosford Police on 4323 5599. Media release, Jan 18, 2016 NSW Police media

News Phone 4325 7369 Fax 4321 0940

critical incident investigation was launched following a twocar collision on Showground Rd Gosford that hospitalized six people.

Police were patrolling Showground Rd, Gosford, around 10:30pm, Friday, January 22, when a Hyundai Getz failed to stop after being signalled to do so. Police activated their lights and sirens, however, the driver allegedly failed to stop and police initiated a pursuit. According to NSW Police assistant commissioner Jeff Loy, the driver of the Hyundai switched off the headlights to evade the police pursuit moments before the crash. After a short distance, the Hyundai collided with a Honda Jazz on Showground Rd. The Hyundai, which overturned, had five teenage occupants. The driver and front passenger, both males aged 17 and 19, who were trapped for a short time, were taken to hospital in critical conditions. The three rear passengers, two boys aged 17 and 16 and a 17 year old girl, were also trapped, but were released after a short time and taken to hospital in

Community Access Edition 385

News Phone 4325 7369 Fax 4321 0940

25 January 2016

Gosford and Wyong to merge The Peninsula is about to become part of a local government area double the size of the current Gosford City Council following an announcement by the NSW Government of its proposal to go ahead with the merger of councils throughout the state. NSW premier, Mr Mike Baird and minister for local government, Mr Paul Toole announced their proposal on Friday, December 18 to merge Gosford and Wyong Councils in order to create one of 15 new councils in the “Sydney region”. The announcement has been described as a “dark day for democracy” and one that will “set a number of communities on the warpath with the Baird Government,” by Local Government NSW president, Mr Keith Rhodes. “This bully-boy farce is about removing genuine local representation, and completely ignoring the expressed wishes of local communities,” Mr Rhodes said. “It’s a cruel joke, and unfortunately the joke is on the people of NSW, because they are the ones likely to lose any meaningful input on the issues that impact on their day-to-day lives.” Mr Baird and Mr Toole promised improved infrastructure and services and stabilised rates would make ratepayers the big winners under the proposal. They said the community would have the opportunity to have a say on the NSW Government’s vision for local government in NSW. The new, as yet unnamed, Gosford and Wyong council was included in ‘Greater Sydney’, where the government is proposing to create the 15 new councils “to help the city [Sydney] grow, which would bring the total number of metropolitan councils down from 43 to 25. “Fewer councils will mean a big reduction in red tape for the NSW community and the businesses that work with councils,” Mr Baird said. Mr Toole said under the proposal there will be no change to merged council’s existing rate paths for four years.

would have to draw on their McKinna and shadow minister surpluses and be “Scottish with for the Central Coast, Mr David their money” to cover the expense Harris said local residents should of amalgamation. make submissions and let the However, he said he did not state government know their believe any associated cost cuts views on amalgamation during the would have a negative impact on consultation process. services. Cr McKinna said he believed “We have been told that both public consultations should have council’s budgets and operational been held prior to the decision plans would run through until 2017, being made to go ahead with so it is business as usual. mergers but at least now those “Senior managers from both residents who were concerned councils have been having regular about the lack of consultation meetings to sort out how it is going could have their say. to happen and that will keep going Mr Harris slammed Mr Baird now,” he said. and Mr Toole’s announcement as Cr McKinna said he had heard “undemocratic”. rumours about NSW Government Mr. Harris said Mr Baird had plans to sack councils or appoint disregarded community input and panels to oversee mergers but was pushed forward with his Local confident the two Coast councils Government reforms just before 384 trying to avoid serious would remain in place until the Edition Christmas, amalgamation was finalized and scrutiny. new council elections held. “This decision will affect local The NSW Government is using residents, sporting and community the existing process set out in the organisations and above all Local Government Act to consider hundreds of jobs without any real council mergers. consultation,” Mr Harris said. “Our process will provide an “The government should be objective assessment of the addressing the massive cost merger benefits and impacts, and shifting from State and Federal give the community a chance to Government to local ratepayers have a say before a final decision instead of its dubious policy of is made,” Mr Toole said. amalgamation,” he said. Detailed merger proposals are “Mike Baird has ignored the now being finalised and will be wishes of a majority of Central referred to the Chief Executive of Coast residents and councillors. the Office of Local Government “The whole Fit for the Future (OLG) for examination and report process has been a multi-million under the existing process set out dollar farce - it was a done deal in the Local Government Act. from the start; “61 per cent of The Chief Executive will appoint Central Coast residents with 59 qualified delegates, who will per cent of small businesses commence a public consultation strongly opposed amalgamations, process for all 35 proposals, yet this government claims to have including public hearings. a mandate. Following this stage, final “Community voices were proposals will be referred to forced silent under Mike Baird and the Boundaries Commission for instead it was left to the politicians - there must be a Citizens Panel comment. Mr Toole commended councils to ensure complete transparency for their leadership in submitting and Community input into any new merger preferences to Government Council structure moving forward. “I strongly encourage people to and for recognising the significant benefits mergers will bring to their write to the Boundary Commission delegate expressing their views communities. The public consultation about amalgamation. “They should indicate whether process will commence in January, once detailed proposals they support it or not.” Media releases, 18 Dec 2015 are made available at www. Mike Baird, NSW Premier councilboundaryreview.nsw.gov. Jake Allen, office of David Harris au. Keith Rhodes, LG NSW A factsheet is also available to Interview, 18 Dec 2015 download. Lawrie McKinna, Gosford Council Both Gosford mayor, Cr Reporter: Jackie Pearson

Peninsula Community Access

The NSW Government’s proposed Sydney region council mergers with Gosford and Wyong in blue

THIS ISSUE contains 54 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info

News Ne s 11 January 2016

Gosford Council may be in breach of the Local Government Act and State planning policy in its management and proposed sale of council-owned land on the Peninsula, according to an East Gosford environmental consultant.

Most Peninsula commuters make 10 trips a week by train according to Ms Kathy Smith

Public transport costs ts could rise by almost half

Weekly public transport costs for Peninsula residents Ofﬁce: 120c Erina Street, Gosford could rise substantially – in Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 some cases by almost 50 per Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 cent - if IPART’s proposed E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net reforms to Opal transport Website: www.centralcoastnews.net fares are adopted by the NSW Government. The weekly fare from Woy Woy to Central could rise by 25 per cent over two years from $60 to $75 a week, while the weekly fare from Woy Woy to Tuggerah will increase by 48 per cent to $57 with the changes to be implemented in July. The current $60 per week cap will go up to $65 per week in July, meaning the maximum increase for commuters who already reach the cap would be $5 or eight per cent, according to IPART chairman Dr Peter Boxall. IPART proposes increasing the weekly cap to $70 in 2017 and $75 in 2018 – 25 per cent higher than the current cap. The draft reforms would apply a daily cap of $18 from July 2016, meaning that passengers taking a

Jumbuck Reserve in Jumbuck Close, Woy Woy

Gosford Council land sale may breach Act, says consultant

Phone 4325 7369 Fax 4321 0940

he not be in the best interests of the Peninsula community. at She said IPART assumed that ke only a minority of commuters make k. 10 public transport trips per week. ort “To assume public transport er users don’t travel for 10 trips per week is naïve or misleading,” Ms Smith said. re “The majority of users are commuting to work to ﬁve day a week jobs hence they complete a he minimum of 10 trips per week,” she said. so She said the reforms also al appeared to give preferential ng treatment to commuters using more than one mode of public transport. According to Ms Smith this would also disadvantage commuters in the Gosford electorate, many of whom drive their own cars to Woy Woy (or Gosford train station) and then catch the train to and from work. “The majority of train travellers also only use one form of transport. “Of particular concern to me is the fact that the NSW Government

THIS ISSUE contains 53 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info

no longer tracks passenger journeys. “Instead a record is kept only of where people start their journey. “How can this possible help with future planning? IPART is now seeking community feedback on its draft fare reform package before a ﬁnal report will be released next year. Submissions will be accepted until February 5, 2016. Any new fares would come into effect on 1 July 2016. The Draft Report is available on IPART’s website. “We want to hear from passengers and taxpayers about what they want their fares to look like and how they prioritise different things where there are trade-offs to be made,” Dr Boxall said.

ON THE BEAT

Critical two-car collision in Gosford

Peninsula 21 December 2015

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au/on-the-beat

Ofﬁce: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

Media statement, 7 Jan 2016 Jane Letteri, ofﬁce of Kathy Smith Media releases, 21 and 22 Dec 2015 Julie Sheather, Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal Media release, 21 Dec 2015 Mehreen Faruqi, NSW Greens Media release, 21 Dec 2015 Ryan Gibb, Ofﬁce of Ryan Park

www.centralcoastnewspapers.com A free newspaper with in-depth Peninsula Local Government Area news!

Police attended the critical incident on Showground Road serious conditions. The driver of the Jazz was trapped for s short time before being treated at the scene and taken to Gosford hospital in a serious condition. She was reported to be a nurse and mother of five on her way to work at Gosford hospital. One patient was airlifted to John Hunter Hospital and another to Royal North Shore, both in serious conditions.

A critical incident team from Lake Macquarie Local Area Command will now investigate all circumstances surrounding the incident, including the pursuit, and will be assisted by the Crash Investigation Unit. On Saturday, January 23 a police briefing revealed that the Hyundai Getz was allegedly stolen from a

pizza delivery man at The Entrance on January 1. Police will allege a replica pistol was also found in the vehicle. A 17-year-old male remained under police guard at Gosford Hospital on Saturday, January 23. Police allege he was wanted on several outstanding warrants. Media releases, Jan 22, 23, 2016 NSW Police media

HEALTH

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Sun safety program developed for primary school children

Community Visitors Scheme wins community award

s Jessica Atkinson has received Gosford Council’s Youth Award for Australia Day 2016.

olunteering Central Coast won the Volunteer (Organisation) award at the Annual Australia Day Community Awards in Gosford on January 25.

Volunteering Central Coast, who have been active within the community since 1992, have delivered a Community Visitors Scheme, which relies on the

commitment and dedication of almost 50 volunteers. These individuals regularly visit socially isolated people living in aged care facilities on the

Central Coast. During 2015 alone, 45 volunteers have made 929 visits across 14 aged care homes, donating more than 1,393 hours of their time.

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Volunteers are not paid - they make these visits simply to contribute to a stronger community, with greater human connection. Residents take part in priceless experiences as a result of these visits. From a resident with dementia, believed to have been a builder, who is taken to dig in the sand at the beach, as this is where he appears happiest; to a volunteer who takes in a valuable china tea set and homemade cakes to recreate high tea; to others who have brought in household pets, read poetry and learnt songs to play at weekly sing-alongs. The contributions these volunteers make to the lives of these residents cannot be measured. However, the award presented recognises the significant impact this program has on the lives of all participating residents. Media release, Jan 25, 2016 Gosford Council media

At 14-years-old, Ms Atkinson has developed and implemented a sun safety program for primary school children across our community, earning her the Youth Award at the Annual Australia Day Community Awards which took place in Gosford on January 25. As a volunteer in the Youth Frontiers program, Jessica developed the ‘Beat the Heat’ initiative after identifying a gap in the delivery of sun safety education in local primary schools. Based on information from the Cancer Council and other reputable organisations, Jessica researched, created and delivers the program to

primary school students, all on a volunteer basis. Jessica has also made an online version of the program available, to enable local schools to successfully access and deliver the ‘Beat the Heat’ initiative independently. In addition, Jessica single-handedly approached national and local corporations to coordinate program sponsorships, with companies willingly supplying items to support this innovative and youth-driven grassroots community campaign. Media Release, Jan 25, 2016 Gosford Council media

Clive receives individual volunteer award he annual Australia Day Community Awards held in Gosford on January 25 presented Mr Clive Blunt with the Volunteer (Individual) award.

Following a successful professional career, this year’s Individual Volunteer winner Mr Blunt, has chosen to assist numerous local community services and not-for-profit associations by donating his time and knowledge to advance the effectiveness of these local organisations. Over the past 15 years, Clive Blunt has volunteered with organisations including:

St John’s Ambulance Cadets, Australian Red Cross first aid training, and Gosford City Credit Union. Clive helps organisations to think outside the square, guaranteeing they can remain financially sustainable into the future, and continue to positively contribute to our community. Media release, Jan 25, 2016 Gosford Council media

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Health

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61 interns starting in Coast hospitals

Suicide bereavement support group being formed ifeline will host a suicide bereavement support group for Central Coast residents affected by suicide, in their Lifeline Central Coast office, Wyoming, from February 4.

The eight week Central Coast Bereaved by Suicide Support Group aims to bring people suffering from the aftermath of suicide together in a stigma free setting. Group leader, Ms Liz Martin, has lost three people to suicide including her father, and understands grieving with suicide. Ms Martin says the group is facilitated by trained people who have also experienced the roller coaster of emotions that people experience when a loved one suicides. “The grief people experience after a suicide death can be eased, better understood or normalised by meeting with others

who have travelled or are travelling the same painful path. “Rather than give answers the facilitators help people to understand their emotions and find a degree of peace and comfort about the decision the person made to suicide,” Ms Martin said. “Sadly, the stigma of suicide remains, meaning friends may turn away, adding to a person’s raw pain. “There is no right or wrong way to grieve but you do not have to grieve alone,” Ms Martin concluded. Media release, Jan 11, 2016 Gillian Summers, Lifeline Central Coast

Adam Crouch with the new interns

r Adam Crouch MP, member for Terrigal has welcomed the latest intake of medical graduates who are commencing their one-year internship at Gosford Hospital.

Mr Crouch visited the hospital to meet the medical graduates and welcome them on their first week of orientation. “There are 983 medical intern places in NSW in 2016, which is a record,” Mr Crouch said.

I can only imagine how excited they must feel. “We are fortunate enough to have 61 interns starting at Gosford and Wyong Hospitals and I wish them well during their time here,” he said. According to Mr

Media Release, Jan 18, 2016 Debra Wales, office of Adam Crouch

ARE YOU A CARER?

Every bequest brings us closer to a cure for cancer. Thanks to medical research cancer survival rates have increased by 25% in the last 25 years.

“It is a privilege to visit Gosford Hospital to meet the new interns at the beginning of their journey as doctors,” he said. “The first day of an internship is a key milestone in the life of every young doctor and

Crouch, NSW is the only state to offer two year employment contracts to medical graduates commencing their internship.

Do you or your family members need assistance? Are you having an operation and need someone to help you at home? Are you going out or away and worried about leaving a family member alone?

Relative Care Home Support Services can help with great local staff, on time every time.

Your bequest to the Cancer Council NSW will help fund more research which could help us defeat cancer within this child’s lifetime. The power to save more lives is in your hands.

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EDUCATION

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Community music classes at The Hut

ARIA award winning studio offers courses

Taiko drumming at The Rhythm Hut

ommunity music classes in African djembe drumming, Japanese taiko drumming, didgeridoo, ukulele and vocal coaching will kick off for 2016 at The Rhythm Hut from mid-February.

“We are a friendly and supportive space and cater for all levels of ability,” The Rhythm Hut’s Ms Amy Corcoran said. “Term 1 2016 begins the week starting February 15 and goes for eight weeks, finishing with our student performance event, KaBoom, on Saturday, April 9. “If you want to learn more about the classes, come along to one of our free drumming open nights. “Held on February 2 and

11, the open nights are an opportunity for people to come along to The Rhythm Hut and see what we do. “You can have a go at both djembe and taiko drums, check out the venue, and meet some of the other students and teachers. “They are a bit of a tastetester to see if you would be interested in joining a class for a term,” Ms Corcoran said. The Rhythm Hut’s unique taiko fitness class will be on twice a week this year

to give residents more opportunities to get fit while having fun. Taiko fitness is a fun, high-energy fitness class designed around playing large Japanese drums called taiko. No experience or musical ability is needed and all fitness levels are welcome. Media release, Jan 22, 2016 Amy Corcoran, The Rhythm Hut

he Grove Studios at Somersby has limited spots left in its Diploma of Sound Production and Advanced Diploma of Sound Production for 2016.

In 2015, The Grove Studios and RMI began a partnership with a fully enrolled three day a week Diploma of Sound Production course that began in July and has been designed to provide practical industry based learning using the latest technology. Director and head producer at The Grove Studios, Mr Scott Horscroft said: “2015 was a fantastic year for The Grove Studios, our continued success as Australia’s leading music studio was solidified with ARIA Awards for Oh Mercy’s ‘When We Talk About Love’ album and Burke Reid’s mixing work on Courtney

Barnett’s ‘Sometimes I Sit and Think and Sometimes I Just Sit’ album. “2015 also saw the launch of The Grove’s first Sound Production course in collaboration with TAFE and RMI. “The course has been a tremendous success producing great results for all students. “It’s fantastic to see the facility alive with enthusiastic students learning in such a professional and creative environment,” he said. The Diploma of Sound Production teaches skills in Sound Production that provides students with the knowledge and hands-on ability to begin a variety of

careers, including working in a studio as a producer or engineer with recording artists, or looking after sound production at live music or sporting events. The Diploma and Advanced Diploma are suitable for all ranges of age and allow students to learn from professionals with decades of experience, including teachers and guest speakers, in a purpose built classroom and to study within the grounds of a world-class working studio. VET Fee-Help is available for both courses. Media release, Jan 19, 2016 Valerie MacIver, The Grove Studios

Program for students to re-engage with education outh Connections at Kariong is currently enrolling students for its 2016 Ngaruki Gulgul (NG Central) program which aims to offer year 9 to 12 students an opportunity to re-engage with education and training in a tight-knit school community.

Principal Ms Cingi acknowledges that in order to prime young people for learning that will set them in good stead for the workforce, one must often start by alleviating the intersecting academic and social barriers which can prevent a student from fully engaging with their studies. “With large cohorts, students with learning difficulties or disabilities are often overlooked simply by virtue of an overcrowded environment,” Ms Cingi said. “Alternatively, you may have students who

have dysfunctional home environments or negative experiences with drugs, alcohol or bullying,” she said. “These factors all contribute to disengagement, so to unlock their immense leaning potential we must offer a new perspective on what it means to have skills and knowledge.” Outside of the traditional curriculum, a wealth of community organisation partnerships mean students have access to regular workshops across financial planning, mental, physical

and sexual health, enterprise art and digital media. With a significant focus on trade skills and partnerships with training and employment enterprise The Skills Generator and YC’s Group Training Organisation Trade Australia, students have access to industry standard training, facilities and staff that provide a replication of a real life work environment. Media Release, Jan 12, 2016 Ruby Wharton, Youth Connections

Every three minutes there are two reports of child abuse/neglect.* In 2008-2009, more than 930 new reports of child abuse per day. This means that there were two reports of abuse or neglect of a child for every three minutes of a day. Our kids need our protection now!

To reach out to a young person in need, please call our donation hotline on 1800 06 22 88 or donate online at www.youthoffthestreets.com.au. *AIHW, 2008-2009.

Youth Off The Streets is a registered charity helping the nation’s most disadvantaged youth to turn their lives around.

www.youthoffthestreets.com.au

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EDUCATION

Former student returns as head of studies at NAISDA

New app for pre-schoolers new app focused on encouraging an interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics is on its way for preschoolers on the Central Coast, according to federal member for Robertson, Ms Lucy Wicks MP.

Following the positive feedback from a trial using apps to teach pre-schoolers another language, the Turnbull Government will look to replicate that success with an app to inspire young Australians’ interest in science and technology as part of its Innovation and Science Agenda, Ms Wicks said. She said the languages app had great feedback in its initial trial, which included a preschool in Kariong, and was looking forward to the expansion of the trial in more locations. “The Turnbull

Government is spending $2.5 million to expand the trial of the Polygots languages app for preschools, with almost 1,000 schools that applied to be part of the trail but were unsuccessful now having the opportunity to apply in 2016,” Ms Wicks said. “Little Angels Learning Centre at Kariong was one of 40 sites across Australia selected to take part in the trial of a second language app in the year before school. “We know that around 75 per cent of the fastestgrowing industries require

STEM-related skills, so the Turnbull Government has committed $6 million to develop a STEM-focused app to ensure Australia’s youngest minds develop an interest in those fields, Ms Wicks said. “I’m looking forward to seeing the languages and STEM apps in places like the Central Coast and the exciting opportunities they present.” Frances Rings has been appointed NAISDA’s creative director Media release, Jan 13, 2016 Tim Sowden, office of Lucy Wicks MP

Opal card to be provided to all school students chool students across the Central Coast will be provided with an Opal card at the start of the 2016 school year so they can travel for free between home and school with ease.

Parliamentary secretary for the Central Coast, Mr Scot MacDonald MLC, said that more than 4 million Opal cards are already in use across NSW and now we’re expanding Opal to give local school students the same kind of convenience from the start of the 2016 school year. “This is a win for our local school kids and families and is part of the NSW Government’s $550 million program funding the 80 million school trips taken by students each year in NSW. “School travel assistance also keeps cars off the road at busy peak periods.

“Students from Public, Catholic and Independent schools on the Central Coast will be able to use the School Opal card to travel on trains, buses and ferries to get from home to school using the simple and efficient Opal electronic ticketing system. “To make it easier for families, students who have a paper school pass this year will automatically be issued an Opal card at their school from the start of term in 2016,” Mr MacDonald said. Some parents and students will need to apply online for their School Opal

card, which will be mailed to their home in early 2016. Those who need to apply online are parents who have children starting at kindergarten, moving from Year 2 to 3, starting high school, changing school or changing their address next year. Parents and students who need to apply for a School Opal card can go to the website transportnsw. info/school-students to do so. Media release, Oct 29, 2015 Mitchell Cutting, Office of Scot MacDonald MLC

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enowned dancer Ms Frances Rings has been appointed as head of creative studies at National Aboriginal and Islander Skills Development Association Dance College (NAISDA) located at Mt Penang Gardens, Kariong.

A descendant of the Kokatha Tribe and of German descent, Adelaide born Ms Rings will join the college in her new role as it celebrates its 40th year as Australia’s premier Indigenous dance training institute. A former developing artist at NAISDA, Ms Rings graduated from the college in 1992, moving on to join Bangarra Dance Theatre in 1993, where she developed

skills as a choreographer and became Bangarra’s first choreographic Artist in Residence. Mr Nyunggai Warren Mundine of NAISDA said: “Frances’ connections, both culturally and artistically across Australia and the world, will help NAISDA to further create and produce the next generation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dance artists.” “The Board and staff of

NAISDA are excited about the passion, experience and creative energy that Frances will bring to both the organisation and the Developing Artists and we know Frances will do a fantastic job in this new role,” he said. Media release, Jan 19, 2016 Alison Orren, Brilliant Logic

Skills for work and training TAFE course available

osford TAFE has introduced a Certificate II in skills for work and training.

This six month course is designed for those who have been out of the workforce for a while, want a head start on a career change or have been made redundant. The certificate offers a range of subjects including English, maths, science,

humanities, computing and career development. It provides skills needed to enter further study and improve employment opportunities, assists in development of career goals, improves interpersonal communication skills and develops work-related

skills. The course runs for four hours a day, four days a week. Media release, Jan 19, 2016 Bronwyn Palmer, Hunter TAFE

For FITNESS, FUN and FRIENDSHIP GOSFORD SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCERS holds a class every Wednesday from 7 to 10pm at the Church of Christ Hall, Henry Parry Drive, Wyoming

$7 per Night Come and join in n on the fun! No partner necessary No special clothes - just soft shoes Lively music New dancers welcome

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OUT&ABOUT

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One bus to suit all needs

Free three day festival planned for Gosford CBD osBlues 2016 is the first-ever free, three day festival presenting quality Blues, Jazz and Roots music in multiple venues in the heart of Gosford city and surrounds.

From left Kim McLaughry CEO of RYSS, Chris Holstein and Alex McNeal.

egional Youth Support Services has acquired a full-sized transit bus which it aims to custom fit to provide education, forums, and support for communities across the Coast who need it most.

“To say that we are excited is an understatement, perhaps overjoyed better describes Regional Youth Support Services’ (RYSS) latest innovation in the delivery of targeted child, youth, and family support services to areas of the Central Coast where it is needed most,” said Mr Alex O’Neal, RYSS operations manager. The RYSS Bus Project, supported by Family and Community Services as well as a range of other local community and business groups, will deliver programs designed by local services, for their local communities – focusing in particular on children, young people and their families, according to Mr O’Neal. “This full sized transit bus is to be custom fitted to be able to deliver education

and training sessions, forums, and information seminars, internet access, art and creativity workshops, outdoor cinema, music performance areas, and a range of other intervention and engagement programs. “Fully integrated with the best and latest technologies including AV systems, WiFi, and gaming capabilities, The Bus Project can not only deliver ‘seminar’ style sessions to seated groups, but also one-on-one support work, gaming competitions, and that’s just the start. “The beauty of this project is that it is designed with flexibility and creativity in mind – if a community has a specific need, then The Bus aims to fill it. “Whether it is providing information and advice at a local shopping centre, raising awareness and

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highlighting an emerging community issue, running a short film evening alongside a local beach, hosting an acoustic music event, providing a safe space ‘chill out’ zone at a festival, or through targeted outreach support to young people in an area where support services have previously struggled to reach – The RYSS Bus Project wants to be able to deliver the solution on a scale never before seen on The Central Coast. “Regional Youth Support Services will host The Bus Project and facilitate local communities across the Central Coast in using The Bus to the best of its ability. “Community Groups across the Coast can deliver their own projects the way they know best, with their own staff, to their own community. “That is where the success in this story sits. “For many years, support services have struggled to reach areas in need, and for many years local communities have called out for more help, more support, and with more accessibility. “Those who do community work are resourceful and resilient, and will always do the best with what they have. “Now there is a new solution, a solution that will change the way support is delivered to those who need it most. “We can’t wait for the Official Launch of the RYSS Bus Project, coming in April, 2016,” Mr Neal said. Email, Jan 20, 2016 Alex McNeal, Regional Youth Support Services

GosBlues 2016 will be held over the weekend of February 19 to 21 in many venues, most of which are in walking distance from each other in the Gosford business district and close to Gosford train station and other forms of transport. Presented by Central Coast Newspapers and Trad&Now, GosBlues will start at 6:00pm on Friday, February 19 and will continue through to midnight. On Saturday, February 20, free concerts will commence from 4:00pm and continue through to midnight. Free entertainment on Sunday, February 21 will commence at 1:00pm and continue until 7:00pm. Specially selected performers are coming to Gosford from many parts of Australia. Some of those with special expertise will also give free master classes and workshops in all aspects of

blues, jazz and roots music, commencing at 12 noon on Saturday and again on Sunday. Entry to all venues will be free, but volunteer collectors will be seeking a gold coin donation for Coast Shelter at all venues. What could be more appropriate than Blues fans donating to Coast Shelter for the benefit of the many homeless people on the Coast? Blues helping people with the blues could very well become the event’s motto. GosBlues 2016 is seeking to present a wide variety of Blues, Jazz and Roots music giving priority to the more unusual styles. Acts are being selected because they have something different to offer with many reproducing traditional forms of Blues and Jazz from the early nineteen hundreds while others will present music that has had a European

influence on Jazz and Blues adding different rhythms. There will of course also be the more common blues bands for those that like it rocky and the Jazz component will include Gypsy Jazz, Trad Jazz, a Jug band and much more. Full details of all venues and performers will be announced soon and all who are interested in music are encouraged to set this weekend aside as something special and not to be missed. GosBlues is expecting to be an annual free event and to grow each year for as long as it is supported by large numbers of music fans and local businesses keen to see such an exciting event centred in the Gosford CBD. Media release, Jan 25, 2016 Cec Bucello, Central Coast Newspapers

Free 2016 Safer Seniors Calendar available osford Council is making sure seniors start the New Year safely on local roads with the release of its 2016 Safer Seniors Calendar.

The calendar was developed in consultation with local seniors to help raise road safety awareness as part of the Local Government Road Safety Program. The 2016 Safer Seniors Calendar is free for residents, with copies available from Gosford Council’s Customer Service Centres, Libraries and Council’s 50+ Leisure and Learning Centres. It is an initiative between Central Coast and Hunter councils and features road safety information, tips for low risk driving, what to do at the scene of a crash, how to be a safe pedestrian, alternative transport options, registering vehicles and active aging. Media release, Nov 3, 2015 Gosford Council media

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Coast Community News - January 28, 2016 - Page 21

Shen Yun Heralds the Beginning of a New Era EPOCH TIMES

AN JOSE, Calif.—Few experiences in life can claim to touch the very core of one’s being. For sisters Lynn Pentz and Rene Besold, Shen Yun did just that. “It speaks to the highest in us. Here is the heart and the soul being uplifted in the art. It’s exquisite. Just a magnificent piece of art,” said Ms. Pentz, wearing a regal black coat ornately detailed with a golden Chinese dragon. Ms. Pentz, who called the performance “deeply inspiring,” finally secured the ticket as a Christmas gift from her sister Rene, after wanting to see Shen Yun for years. “Shen Yun is a beautiful transformational experience,” she said. “It’s a cross-cultural journey into not only Chinese history and spiritual tradition,

but it’s also an opportunity to just take a deep breath and have your soul fed by the highest form of art … also just the uplifting of the music and the beauty of the dance and the costumes, and the moving imagery in the background.” This is no small praise from an event producer who was behind such globally recognized events as Hands Across America and Live Aid. Rene Besold, Ms. Pentz’s equally vibrant sister and a former director of human resources and training, echoed the sentiment. “With the sights and the sounds, and the texture and the color, that incredible orchestra, and the movement, the flow of the dancing, and the precision of everything—you did not see that

From left: Rene Besold, Lynn Pentz

on a flat screen, u felt it,” Ms. you sold said. Besold “It went into ur heart, into your your ul.” soul. “It was deep and pround. It is really a remarkable found. perience. It’s an experience, it’s experience. nott a show. I have to say, that’s obably the finest overall perprobably mance in its totality that I’ve formance er seen, bar none”, she said. ever

“

These dimensions dimens re rea al. are real. -Lynn L Pentz

To Lynn Pentz, the divine worlds depicted in Shen Yun are not just the stuff of imagination. “For me it’s real,” she said. “It’s a fascinating thing, and quite honestly, I think that the grace of the divine can take whatever form you recognize.” As a person with a keen sense of spirituality, and blessed with experiences beyond the norm, Ms. Pentz’s take on the heavenly realms depicted on stage may be different from some of her fellow theatergoers. “For those whose third eye

“So inspiring. I think “S Im may have found some ideas ide for the next Avatar movie.” mo — Robert R Stromberg, Academy Aw Award–winning production des designer

is open,” she said, “these dimensions are real, depicted in actual physical reality. This is not just some myth. This is not some theatrical experience.” Many cultures believe in the ability to see beyond the physical world. “It gives people an opportunity to see the dimensions of heaven, not just as a symbolic representation, which most people would think, but it’s literally what people experience with an open third eye and an open heart and a connection with the soul,” Ms. Pentz said. “This is a real representation of what real power is … as you develop your life force, you purify and you embody virtues, and real power comes to you. Both in terms of consciousness and in terms of grace, and in terms of your ability to impact the physical world. Hopefully, to uplift it,” she said.

“D “Demonstrating the hig highest realm in arts, Sh Yun inspires the Shen pe performing arts world.” — Chi Cao, lead actor in Mao’s Last Dancer & principal dancer with Birmingham Royal Ballet

“I am completely enchanted.” — HRH Princess Michael of Kent

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OUT&ABOUT

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Pride of Workmanship Awards presented

Voter dissatisfaction with major parties a common theme

From left Garth Morgan (president Rotary Club of Erina), Susanne Waslin, Ernie Altman and Vitor Diogo

he Rotary Club of Erina presented Pride of Workmanship Awards on January 19.

Awardees for 2016 were Ms Susanne Waslin from Living Choice, Broadwater Court Kincumber and Mr Vitor Filipe Das Neves Rodrigues Diogo from the Central Coast Campus of the University of Ourimbah. Both recipients were praised for their dedication to their work, and were well supported on the night

by co-workers and, in the case of Ms Waslin, by many residents of Broadwater Court. Rotary Pride of Workmanship Awards were launched as a Rotary project in 1975, with the aim of encouraging pride in personal performance in the workplace and to help to create a national attitude for

the benefit of the country. The program has been adopted by over 600 Rotary clubs across Australia and New Zealand, the South Pacific, Canada and the United States of America. Media release, Jan 20, 2016 Annona Pearse, Rotary Club of Erina

Ecovillage to hold Open Day

he next Narara Ecovillage open day will take place on Sunday, January 31.

The day will commence with registration followed with a presentation and question and answer session about the Narara Ecovillage project. Small group guided tours will be taken around the ecovillage site and then

there will be a community lunch in the members’ lounge courtyard that will be open to all. The guest speaker will be Richard Cassels presenting the birds of Narara: their world and their stories. This illustrated

presentation will be followed (weather permitting) by a short walk to meet a few of the feathered residents. Newsletter, Dec 11, 2015 John Talbott, Narara Ecovillage

he final discussion for 2015 at Politics in the Pub, Central Coast, was voter dissatisfaction with all the major parties and most independents.

There was a unanimous decision that if the benefits of Australian democracy were to be protected, concerned voters must become involved in the struggle. Convenor, Mr Norm Hanscombe, urged citizens who were disgusted with politicians to join the major Parties. “Unless you join in significant numbers, there’s little chance of stopping current politicians from

harming Australia still further,” Mr Hanscombe said. “As someone who has been involved at higher levels in political and union organisations, I saw how they operate,” he said. “There was a time when most of the leaders worked to help Australian citizens and businesses. “Nowadays, they concentrate on colluding among themselves to advance their personal

ambitions. “That’s why the ALP and union powerbrokers are currently attempting to expel me for the fourth time. “What happens to me is of little importance. “What happens to our nation and its citizens, however, is of vital importance.” Email, Dec 17, 2015 Norm Hanscombe, Politics in the Pub

Family History Society hosts seminar

he Central Coast Family History Society will hold a seminar on Saturday, March 5, covering a range of topics, including NSW Births, Deaths and Marriages, approved transcription agents, Ancestory.com.au and the Finders Café.

It will hold its first monthly meeting on Saturday, February 6 where guest speaker, Ms Kate Walter, will deliver a practical seminar on searching for genealogical and historical records. The society has a membership of more than 290 people and a

comprehensive research centre at East Gosford. The research centre is operated by volunteers who help people trace their family history. The main objectives of the society are to promote the study of family and local history, encourage the recording and preservation

of this history, and provide facilities to assist and benefit members’ research. The research centre is open from Tuesday to Friday and is located at East Gosford. Email, Dec 28, 2015 Deborah Buist, Central Coast Family History Society

Coast Community News - January 28, 2016 - Page 23 SShare

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au/out-and-about

Kate Miller-Heidke at Laycock St Theatre

Australian Plants Society to meet

he Central Coast Group of the Australian Plants Society will start their 2016 activities with a meeting and guest speaker on carnivorous plants.

The group will meet at Phillip House, Kariong on Friday, February 12.

Guest speaker is Mr Greg Bourke who will talk about Carnivorous Plants.

Email, Jan 25, 2016 Barbara Melville, Central Coast Group of the Australian Plants Society

New youth arts project announced

he Youth Arts Warehouse will deliver a new program, the Beyond Walls Disability Arts Project in February, which will engage 12 young emerging artists with a disability (aged between 12 and 25 years) to collaborate on site-specific creative developments.

The collaborations will explore the theme ‘home and connection to place’ through visual arts, photography and sculpture, and a series of workshops will result in installations that will activate a space in Gosford. The workshops will be held by the sculptors, Mandy Francis and Sile Molloy and the space or exhibition will invite the public to connect with and

explore the art works at an event in Gosford. The program will be delivered on Wednesdays from February 24 to June 29 and will be free-of-charge for the 12 young artists selected. The Youth Arts Warehouse houses many arts facilities, including a theatre space, a band performance area, an art exhibition space, a music recording studio, and a

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multifaceted arts room for photography among other things. These services are accessible to young people on the Central Coast who are aged between 12 and 25 years. Since February of 2007, more than 10,000 young people have utilised the facility.

$4.90 Issue 112

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here are limited tickets available for Kate Miller-Heidke’s only show at Laycock St Theatre in Gosford.

Kate Miller-Heidke has been working on material for a new album and plans to share some of those songs with her fans. Audiences can also expect to experience a piece from her acclaimed musical

‘The Rabbits’, a new cover or two, plus songs from her most recent record ‘O Vertigo!’ which was hailed by Rolling Stone Magazine as a ‘career-best’ album, as well as earlier material from across her varied career.

Kate’s only show at Laycock St Theatre is on Friday, February 19. Email, 14 Jan, 2016 Laycock St Theatre

Summer Deck Sessions on again hilled vibes, cushions, outdoor acoustic music under the stars, home cooked meals and iced chai all fall into place simultaneously when The Rhythm Hut presents its ‘Summer Deck Sessions’.

After last year’s popular Deck Sessions, The Rhythm Hut is doing it again and is eager to kick off 2016 with an explosion of live music. All three nights of music are entry by donation, a bucket is passed around throughout the night and customers are asked to

please give generously as this is how the artists are paid. The Rhythm Hut will be welcoming back well known artists, plus some fresh new up and coming local acts. Home-made dinner, drinks and desserts will be available for purchase on

the night. The Rhythm Hut Summer Deck Sessions begin on Wednesday, February 3 and will run for three consecutive days. Media release, Jan 17, 2016 Lou Sawilejskij, The Rhythm Hut

NOT FOR PROFIT ORGANISATIONS DIRECTORY COMMUNITY GROUPS ABC - “The Friends” Support group for Public Broadcaster. Aims. safeguard ABC’s independence, funding, & standards. Meetings through the year + social afternoons Well-known guest speakers 4341 5170 www.fabcnsw.org.au

Central Coast Family History Society Inc. Resources, information & advice to study your family’s history. 1st Sat 1pm Lions Community Hall, 8 Russell Drysdale St, E. Gosford. www.centralcoastfhs.org.au

4324 5164

Page 24 - Coast Community News - January 28, 2016 Share

2nd Thurs Bi Monthly. 0412 462 218

COMMUNITY CENTRES Gosford 50+ Leisure and Learning Centre Handicraft, Painting, Knitting, Tai Chi, Scrabble, Darts, Table Tennis, Indoor Bowls, Patchwork, Yoga, Fitness, Gentle Swimming, Line Dancing, Cards, Variety Social, Womens Group, Zumba, Crochet, Computers 4304 7065 Gosford-Narara Neighbourhood Centre School Holiday activities, playgroup, multicultural programs, community activities - Rooms for Hire

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

Wyoming Community Centre Programs and activities incl. Yoga & Zumba classes, Art and Craft classes, Playgroup & Vacation Care, Support groups, Book Club, Community Garden, Rooms for Hire, Work Development Orders, Centrelink Volunteer hours 4323 7483 reception@wyomingcc.org.au

HEALTH GROUPS Alcoholics Anonymous meet every Wed 1230pm Someone cares Anglican Church 3 Mann St Gosford 4323 3890

Better Hearing Australia Central Coast admin@gnnc.com.au Central Coast Over Hearing loss management 4329 4477 30s Social Group Inc Support and educational group We offer social contact, 7 groups across the coast Green Point Community entertainment events & new Providing practical experience Centre friendships for people in their and confidence Provides information and referral 30’s, 40’s, 50’s & 60’s etc. Learn the benefits to hearing services, a meeting place for Our events range from; aids - Better hearing community groups, OOSH Live Music, House Parties, Australia Central Coast cave, exercize classes, school Restaurant Nights, BBQ’s/ 4321 0275 holiday programs, playgroup, Picnics, Trips Away & lots more www.centralcoast.betterhearingaustralia. arts & craft, room hire, and - For a FREE calendar call call org.au much more. 0422 243 101 or 4367 7591 cco30s@live.com.au Central Coast Parkinson’s Support Group Kariong Neighbourhood Central Coast Pension & We aim to help individuals and Centre Welfare Officer Network their families better manage ‘KNC provides the local This group of Volunteers, living with Parkinson’s Disease community with a meeting trained by DVA, to look after Guest speakers are a regular place and hub for groups, servicemen & women, meets at feature of our meetings. services and information. Ourimbah RSL Club at 10:30am 2nd Tue - 1.30pm Regular activities include Early 2nd Fri - Feb to Nov 1800 644 189 childhood clinic, free family 4322 1505 law advice, active playgroup, Central Coast Prostate computer classes, OOSH Central Coast 50+ Singles Cancer Support Group services, fitness classes, arts Social Group (Gosford) & crafts, over 50’s friendship Invites Ladies & Gents for Meet last Friday Month group, youth group, social dinner, dancing - BBQs & Terrigal Uniting Church groups and many more Socialising each w/e. 380 Terrigal Drive, Terrigal Our friendly group can be services. We also have an contacted for our monthly 9.30am to 12 noon extensive resource and DVD programme all areas of the 4367 9600 library for members to borrow. coast www.pcfa.org.au KNC membership starts at only 4396 3640 $5 per year. 0437 699 366 Central Coast Prostate 4340 1724 50pssg@gmail.com Cancer Support Group wwww.knc.net.au (Wyong) Rotary Club of Meet last Monday Month Kincumber Gosford North Toukley RSL Club Neighbourhood Centre A very active community Homes Ave Toukley • Exercise classes minded club with many projects • Yoga for adults and children 10.00am to 12 noon focussed on assisting youth. • Community eco garden 4356 9300 If you are keen to support our • Room hire www.pcfa.org.au great projects, • Health support groups get involved with our fun club or • Counselling Dying with Dignity NSW, discuss joining, please contact • After school activities Central Coast Graham Black 4363 1044 Working to give those 0410 509 071, www.kincumber.nsw.au suffering unrelievedly from grahamblack@iprimus.com.au terminal or incurable illness Mingaletta Aboriginal the legal right to request & Rotary Club of Torres Strait Islander receive medical help to die Kariong/Somersby Corporation Quarterly Meetings International service club The Mingaletta community 4369 8053 improves lives of communities centre provides its members in Australia and overseas. and other community groups a Gambling Solutions Fun-filled activities, fellowship meeting place and referal hub Gambling help counsellors and friendship breakfasts. Phillip for education, health, well-being provide free, confidential, House, 21 Old Mount Penang and cultural programs through professional service to Rd (opp Shell) - Fri 7:15am consultative services and gamblers, family and friends. 4340 4529 community programs. Available Woy Woy, Kincumber, kersuebay@philliphouse.com.au Mon-Fri 9am 4pm Gosford, The Entrance. 6 Sydney Ave Umina 4344 7992 Seniors Computer 4342 7515 Club Central Coast Inc. admin@mingaletta.com.au GROW - Grow Groups are Beginners Class PC or Mac, small friendly groups formed to Mon or Tues. Other Classes Terrigal Fifty Plus Leisure learn how to overcome anxiety, Mon to Fri, 10am to 12 and Learning Centre depression, and loneliness md or 1pm to 3pm. Mthly Regular events Fitness, Yoga, and improve mental health & Meeting with Guest Speaker, Handicrafts, Mah jong, Bridge, well-being. Weekly meetings 1st Monday of month. All at Line dancing,Tai chi, Painting, at Bateau Bay, Woy Woy and Kincumber Neighbourhood Bush walking, Indoor bowls, a new group starting at Wyong Centre. Information Zumba, Computer and Ipad soon. Grow is anonymous, free 02 4369 5692 courses, Bingo, Concerts on 1st and open to all. Bring a support and 3rd Thursday of month. person if you like. Details 1800 U3A Central Coast Duffy Road Terrigal 558 268 or Mature age people are invited Joan 4384 5152 www.grow.org.au to participate in a wide range of terrigal50plus@outlook.com courses to broaden the mind Meals on Wheels and make new friends Volunteering Meals on Wheels 0408 704 701 Central Coast Delicious meals delivered free www.centralcoast.u3anet.org.au Refer potential volunteers Join us for a midday meal to community organisations Help with shopping and and provide support to cooking classes volunteers and community 4363 7111 Koolewong, Point Clare organisations. We also provide & Tascott Progress training to volunteers and Medusa Moves Association managers of volunteers Is a gentle movement class Aims to provide resources for Information Sessions “Bridge catering for people with communication. Special guests, to Volunteering” Held regularly Parkinson’s Disease for community involvement, across the Central Coast Parkinsons’s sufferers & over heritage, diversity, education, 4329 7122 50s, stretching, guided dance safety and small business recruit@volcc.org.au moves & cuppa all for a gold opportunities. coin donation. Point Clare Community y Hall -

1st & 3rd Tuesdays of the months at The Rhythm Hut Faunce St Gosford 0439 856 554 0417 223 543 ParaQuad Specialist healthcare products delivered to your door, for all your continence, wound care and respiratory and nutrition requirements Professional Clinic Support available 1300 886 601 www.brightsky.com.au

HISTORY GROUPS Brisbane Water Historical Society • Coach tours • School educational tours • Annual Street Stalls • Participation in History Heritage Week Celebration Margaret Pearce 4325 2270 Fellowship of First Fleeters Central Coast For anyone interested in early history or early family histories. Don’t need to be a First Fleeter. Wyong RSL Club 2nd Sat 10:30am 4323 1849

MUSIC Brisbane Water Brass Brass Band entertainment for the community playing all types of popular music Rehearsal every Tuesday 7.30pm-10pm 0419 274 012 JAZZLEAGUE Live Jazz Bands - Come to listen, Come to dance Free - Every Sun Central Coast Leagues Club Gosford 2-5pm www.jazzleague.net

Soundwaves Men’s acapella 4 part harmony chorus - all ages 7pm Mon Central Coast Leagues Club Kieran - 0407 267 675 khutton58@gmail.com jbthomson51@gmail.com

Sydney Welsh Choir Cultural not for profit organisation performing at concerts and various venues to promote the Welsh culture with our singing, also performing for charity fund raising. 4369 3378 Tempo Terrific Community Showband Active showband available to play at your community function. Wide ranging repertuore. Always seeking new members, come and join us and have fun with music. Follow us on Facebook Every Monday 5pm to 7pm Kincumber Uniting Church 4365 4414 www.tempoterrific.com tempoterrific@live.com

Tuggerah Lakes Showband An enthusiastic group of people who play brass instruments, meet every Tuesday and Thursday to rehearse their crowd-pleasing music and play at community events Park Rd Band Hall Tues 7.30pm Thur 6.30pm 0407 406 669

PLAYGROUP Gosford Gumnuts Playgroup Parents and children meet socially for the parents to make friends and learn more about parenting and the children to have fun and play together. 0 to 5 yrs Wednesday 10am-12noon Thursday 10am-12noon Friday 10am-12noon An outreach program Gosford Uniting Church Hall 129 Donnison St Gosford 4325 3695 gumnutsguc@gmail.com

POLITICAL PARTY Central Coast Greens Branch of Greens NSW, active regarding ecological sustainability, social and economic justice, peace and non-violence, grassroots democracy and getting elected 3rd Thur centralcoast.nsw.greens.org.au centralcoastgreens@gmail.com

Australian Labor Party Ourimbah/ Narara Branch Discussion/action community issues - 3 levels of Government Niagara Park Primary School 7.30pm 1st Mon each month 0410 309 494

discussion. Weekly paintouts Tuesdays 4349 5860 for locations Workshops - 4363 1156 9.30am - 12.30pm 1st and 3rd Wed Social Meetings 1.30pm 4th Wed Gosford City Arts Centre. 4325 1420 publicity@artcentralcoast.asn.au

Central Coast Cake Decorators Guild Sugarcraft demonstrations conversation and lunch Visitors welcome 4th Sat - 10am Walamba 50+ leisure and Learning Centre Gosford 4382 6236

Evening View Club Social activities, outings and functions monthly - new members welcome Tours, Dinners, Lunches, Theatre/Cinema, fashion parades Dinner meeting with guest speaker 4th Tues each month 4325 1688 or 0466 513 600 Country Women’s Association (CWA) Quilting, patchwork, spinning, knitting, crochet and more 9-2pm Every Fri, Opposite Terrigal Bowling Club 4385 9503 or 4384 3696

lsroe@bigpond.com.au

Gosford RSL Ladies Central Coast Indoor Bowls Handweavers, Spinners Social indoor bowls Frid and Textile Arts Guild 9am - 12pm RSL Club PROBUS CLUBS Spinning and weaving, 4344 5812 or 0412 773 441 patchwork and quilting, felting and other fibre and fabric crafts, All Probus clubs have Gosford RSL community quilting bees - Day interesting guest speakers, Sub-branch and Night Groups friendly atmosphere, make new Women’s Auxiliary 4325 4743 friends, fellowship, intellectual Raise money for the welfare of www.cottagecrafts.net.au stimulus, and social activities. veterans and their families. RSL Club West Gosford 4th Mon Central Coast Lapidary Probus Club of Avoca 2pm Club Minerals & Gems 10.15am 3rd Mon Avoca Beach 4323 7336 Learn silverwork, Cabochons, Bowling Club Faceting, Enamelling, Stone www.probussouthpacific.org/microsites/ Inner Wheel Club Field-trips & fossicking avocabeach of Terrigal Weekly Workshops 4382 3372 Share friendship, social activities Tues and Thurs 830am-230pm as well as fundraising for local, PUBLIC SPEAKING Thurs evening 6-10pm national and international 10 Ourimbah Creek Rd projects. 3rd Mon, 12noon Ourimbah Develop confidence by Terrigal 50+ leisure centre, Duffy 4362 2246 improving your speaking skills. Road Terrigal Meetings are entertaining and 4369 0302 - 4384 1490 CCLC Indoor Bowls educational. terigalinnerwheel@gmail.com Ladies - Mon 10am Brisbane Waters Breakfast Mixed Social - Mon & Wed 7pm Kincumber View Club 2nd & 4th Sundays 1.30pm Toastmasters Club For ladies looking for a place 4363 2360 or 0403 994 313 8:30am-10:30am to make friends. Interesting 2nd and Last Sat each month speakers, lunch, bus trips, Central Coast - The Hive and Library Erina movie days and home Soaring Club Inc Shopping Centre functions. 4th Tues Davistown Gliding Club, Learn to fly, 0459 240 183 RSL Club 11am Instruction FREE to members 4390 2527 Come and have an Air Blue Gum Flat Experience Flight Toastmasters Central Coast Women’s All Welcome Mthly meetings 1st and 3rd Health Centre 14 and up for Training We offer counseling, Mon 7.15-9.30pm therapeutic and social groups, Flying at Bloodtree Road Ourimbah RSL Mangrove Mountain Thur, Sat, workshops, domestic violence 4362 7227 and abuse issues. All services Sun ( weather permitting) SERVICE GROUPS are provided by women for 0412 164 082 women 0414 635 047 www.ccsoaring.com.au 4324 2533 Lions Club of Woy Woy www.cccwhc.com.au 1st and 3rd Mon. Woy Woy Fellowship of Leagues Club Soroptimist International Australian Writers 0478 959 895 Brisbane Water Make new friends and have fun A friendly and supportive group Soroptimists speak for women for new and old writers. Gives while serving your community. and girls of all nations through encouragement and critique awareness advocacy and of your work. Workshops and Northern Settlement action by supporting national competitions Services - Volunteers and international programs 10am 3rd Sun Volunteers needed for friendly visits to the elderly in nursing Conference room Gosford Hotel 2nd Thur 6:45pm - Breakers Country Club, Dover Rd 4363 2627 homes. Wamberal centralcoastfaw@live.com People with a second language 4367 6331 encouraged to apply. sibrisbanewater@siswp.org National Parks Association Training support provided Central Coast 4334 3877 WOWGIRLS Wave Twice weekly bush walks on the cvscc@nsservices.com.au of Wisdom Inc Central Coast and further afield, SPECIAL INTEREST varying distances and grades of WOWGIRLS Wave of Wisdom connects women and local difficulty. Explore, enjoy scenery, businesses around a common fauna, floral, history. Keep fit Brisbane Water theme of well-being. to share and make friends. Caravan Club wisdom and explore life’s 4389 4423 or 4332 7378 located on the Central Coast potential. and looking for new members Regular Powwows, WOW Spirituality in the Pub www.bwcaravanclub.wix.com/bwcc Wisdom gatherings, WOW A forum with Q&A and two 4344 4363 speakers prompt conversations days and WOW courses check our website for activities. Biz Plus Networking within the community & to www.wowgirls.com.au Association encourage dialogue about info@wowgirls.com.au Attention business spirituality. owners - are you keen 1st Tues March to October to grow your business 2nd Tues November and in the process build 7.30 to 9pm worthwhile relationships? Grange Hotel Wyoming Then why not attend a Biz 4328 2596 - 0498 588 261 kyle.macgregor@hotmail.com

Networking breakfast? Every Thur 7:15am - 9am Erina Leagues Club Geoff Neilson

WOMEN’S GROUPS

BPW Central Coast Empowering women of all ages in the areas of work, education, CCLC Bridge Club well-being and friendship. Duplicate Bridge-partner not All women welcome to attend required for most sessions. monthly dinner meetings. Central Coast Leagues Club Be enlightened. $40 covers two 12.30pm Mon, Tue, Thur, Fri Sat course meal and speaker. 1.30pm Wed 7.15pm Mon Community transport available 4325 9854 to and from centre www.cclcbridgeclub.asn.au Chris Levis 0438 989 199 cclcbridgeclub@westnet.com.au network@bizplus.com.au

Central Coast Art Society Lectures, demonstrations and

bpwcentralcoast@hotmail.com www.bpw.com.au/central-coast

Brisbane Water

If you would like your Community Organisation listed here, see www.duckscrossing.org for the forms or contact COAST Community News on 4325 7369

Coast Community News - January 28, 2016 - Page 25 SShare

Free country blues night held

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au/out-and-about

Exhibition of rarely seen items are Seen, presented by Brisbane Water Historical Society, will run until the end of February.

R he latest Quattro country blues acoustic night took place on January 21 with four performances taking the stage throughout the night.

Newcastle locals Nasty Cloud Delta Blues opened the night and were followed by performances by Central Coast band BluesAngels, as well as Mark Bishop and Mike Bradberry, Greg Luland and Hamish Baker. The night consisted of a

raw blues sound which gave a feel of where the blues originated. The acoustic style gave the music performed a unique feel which differs from the amplified music that is often performed at similar events.

The next Quattro Blues night at Fountain Plaza Erina will be held on February 4 and entry is free. Media Release, Jan 23, 2016 Greg Luland, Quattro Country Blues

The Gosford Diary For events in post code areas 2250, 2260 and 2251

If you’ve got something happening in Gosford LGA area over the next few weeks, let us know about it and we’ll list it here for you, for free. Contact details are on page 2.

See the Peninsula News for events in post code areas 2256 & 2257 and the Wyong Regional Chronicle for events in post code areas 2258, 2259, 2261, 2262 & 2263

Friday, Jan 29 Tai Chi classes, Green Point community Centre, 10am to 11pm, bookings essential

Series of six creative workshops for adults ends April 7, 9:00am to 12:00pm, bookings essential

Saturday, Jan 30

Saturday, Feb 6

Central Coast Community College Open Day, The Hive Erina Fair, 10:00am Grizzlee Train, Avoca beach Hotel, 8:00pm

First 2016 meeting of Central Coast Family History Society, Lions Hall, 8 Russell Drysdale St, East Gosford, 12:45pm Central Coast Community College open day, Ourimbah, 10:00am

Sunday, Jan 31

Rhythm Hut, from 7:00pm

Saturday, Feb 13 Creative Craft Group sale day, Studio 2 and 3 Gosford Regional Gallery Green living courses in worm farming, composting and no-dig gardening, Kincumber neighbourhood Centre, bookings essential

Sunday, Feb 14 Bob Hendos Decentralised Coasters, Central Coast Leagues Club, from 3:00pm

Narara Eco Village open day including Q&A session, guided tour, community lunch and guest speakers, from 10:30am

Benny Goodman Project, Central Coast Leagues Club from 3:00pm

Monday, Feb 1

Tuesday, Feb 9

Yoga Circle with Nicole, Kincumber Neighbourhood centre, 5:30pm, bookings essential

Spirituality in the Pub, Grange Hotel, Wyoming

Doun Doun and African Dance workshop, The Rhythm Hit, Faunce St, Gosford Happy Hens at home course, Kincumber Neighbourhood Centre, bookings essential

Wednesday, Feb 3

Wednesday, Feb 10

Positive Negatives, an exhibition of NSW printmakers and photographers, Art Studios Cooperative, Mann St, North Gosford to Feb 28

Liam Burrows, Laycock St Theatre, 11:00am, bookings essential

Harry Harman’s Gentlemen of Jazz as part of GosBlues 2016 Blues Roots and Jazz, Central Coast Leagues Club from 3pm

Friday, Feb 12

Saturday, Feb 27

Australian Plant Society Central Coast Group meeting Phillip House, 21 Old Mount Penang Rd Kariong speaker Greg Bourke on carnivorous plants from 7:30pm Luna Grand, The

Narara Ecovillage Open Day, Modular Homes, the sustainable home of the future? from 1:30pm followed by community dinner from 6:00pm

Tuesday, Feb 2

Thursday, Feb 4 Quattro Blues night, Platinum Building, Erina, from 7:00pm My Secret Garden

Sunday, Feb 7

Friday, Feb 19 GosBlues Blues, Jazz and Roots Festival, multiple venues throughout Gosford until Sunday Kate Miller Heidke at Laycock Community theatre, 8:00pm, bookings essential

Sunday, Feb 21

The exhibition contains artworks from the archives of the Brisbane Water Historical Society and the University of Newcastle. The exhibition is held at the Historical Museum, Henry Kendall Cottage at West Gosford with $4 entry and $3 entry for concession.

OUT&ABOUT

EAT&PLAY Troubadour Tracks Concert and CD Launch February 6 2016 7pm Contact Michael at 4342 6716 $10 Entry with Free CD included

Newsletter, Jan 6, 2016 Edith Campbell, Brisbane Water Historical Society

Single lane closures of the M1 Pacific Motorway possible oads and M a r i t i m e Services have started work to improve the access stairs under the Mooney Mooney Bridge on the M1 Pacific Motorway at Mooney Mooney.

Pla num Building, Ilya Ave, Erina Café & Restaurant Breakfast, Lunch Monday-Friday Open 6:30am ll 4:30pm Every Thursday evening free live music Doors open at 6pm Dinner menu & fully license bar available We also specialise in Weddings, Corporate events, Training nights. hello@quattrocatering.com Full range of menus from Cocktail food to Ala-carte cuisine www.quattrocatering.com

4367 8000

The access stairs are used by Roads and Maritime workers for maintenance work under the bridge which crosses the Hawkesbury River. The improvement of the stairs will result in maintenance work being completed quicker and more efficiently in the future, improving safety and reducing costs. Most work will be carried out off the road and under the bridge and will not impact motorists. Single lane closures of the M1 Pacific Motorway on Mooney Mooney Bridge may be required for the safety of workers and motorists. Work is expected to be complete within five weeks, weather permitting. Media release, Dec 24, 2015 Roads and Maritime Services media

Japanese taiko + African djembe drumming. 2016 enrolments now open. FREE open nights 2nd & 9th Feb, 6.30pm www.therhythmhut.com.au

Formerly known as North Gosford Café is now under new OWNERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT Now known as Gotta Takeaway Open from 6am Mon - Sat and 8am Sun For all your coffee and brekkie needs

Ph. orders welcome 0411 561 571 2/344 Mann St North Gosford

ATTENTION all food outlets and music venues. Advertise in this directory, this size for only $60+GST in full colour!

Page 26 - Coast Community News - January 28, 2016 w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

PRICES FOR CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS IN THESE PAGES COME IN THREE CATEGORIES

Not For Profit Organisations Not for profit organisations’ advertisements are subsidised.

events

A mono 5cm advertisement only costs $20 + GST. Each additional cm is only an additional $4 + GST, colour is $6 + GST and a photograph or logo is an additional $6 + GST.

Private advertisements Each additional cm costs $6.60 as does colour, and a photograph or a logo. Private advertisements need to be paid for at the time of booking.

Business rates A one off advertisement only costs $40 + GST in mono and an extra $8 + GST for colour, a logo or a photograph. Advertising on an ongoing basis attracts discounts if paid for in full in advance. 3 months $215 + GST, 6 months $385 + GST, 12 months $700 + GST – Approximately $14 per week. Having the same advertisement in one of the other Central Coast Newspapers as well attracts an additional 10% discount for those advertisements. If in the third paper as well, it will attract a 15% discount which drops to $11.50 + GST per week in that paper. Artwork is free and advertisers are encouraged to change their advertisements frequently.

Online classified advertising rates

Online only GosfordClassifieds.com.au is one of a network of 10 websites which form one of the largest independent online classifieds network in NSW with over 350,000 annual visitors, over 80,000 online advertisements and over 15,000 business advertisements. A premium VIP online business advertisement on GosfordClassifieds.com.au only costs $299 + GST for 3 months, $399 + GST for 6 months and, $499 + GST for 12 months. It costs a similar amount to go on any one of the other nine Sydney based websites as well, or only $1699 + GST for all sites for 12 months. The other sites cover Bondi, Manly, Newtown, Cronulla, South Sydney, St George, West Sydney, North Sydney, Wollongong and suburbs surrounding those areas. All that we require for you to have an online advertisement such as this is: 1) Heading for the advertisement; 2) Text for the body; and, 3) Up to 3 images if required i.e. logos etc.

Combined online and print advertising Having a Gosford classifieds premium on line advertisement plus a printed advertisement in one newspaper will only cost $495 + GST for 3 months, $695 + GST for 6 months and $999 + GST for 12 months. Having it in two newspapers as well as online costs $595 + GST for 3 months, $995 + GST for 6 months and $1499 + GST for 12 months. To be in all three newspapers as well as online costs $795 + GST for 3 months, $1395 + GST for 6 months and $1899 + GST for 12 months.

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n a first at the Australian Reptile Park, three baby koalas have become triplets to adopting mother Jill, a resident koala who gave birth to one and has welcomed two additional babies along for the ride.

“Koalas don’t have twins or triplets,” said Tim Faulkner, general manager and head of conservation at the park. “If they did it would be very rare, but just as rare is a single koala caring for up to three babies at one time,” Mr Faulkner said. “Truthfully, the other two babies should be weaned from milk and onto eucalyptus leaves now, but Jill is so nurturing they’re

Mother Jill with three babies at the Reptile Park

loving their adopted mum to bits,” he said. “Jill had one baby girl, and when the other two babies mother’s milk dried up, they jumped across to Jill who has welcomed them with open arms.”

Guests to the Australian Reptile Park can visit Jill and her triplets in the koala enclosure where she is often seen sleeping with all three cuddled in her arms or climbing the eucalyptus trees with all three on her

back. Media Release, Jan 15, 2016 Lizzie Doyle, Australian Reptile Park

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News

Blues festival at Mt Penang he first ever Girrakool Blues Festival and BBQ will be held at Mt Penang Gardens on Saturday, March 5.

1 Year (25 editions) to Peninsula News $75

1 Year (25 editions) to Coast Community News $75

1 Year (25 editions) to Wyong Regional Chronicle $75

Phone: 4325 7369 - Fax: 4321 0940 120c Erina Street, Gosford To order online

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An 11-band line up performing across two stages has been announced for the festival, including USA Mississippi HillsCountry blues band Cedric Burnside Project and Australian legendary blues band The Backsliders. “It’s guaranteed to be not only a great event full of fantastic music but also a way of immersing ourselves in Aboriginal heritage and culture while feasting on soul food from our slowcooked Texan style BBQ,” said festival director and Xabc Entertainment owner,

Mr Bruce Johnson. Adding to the New Orleans feel will be keyboardist Clayton Doley with his 10-piece big band, Clayton Doley’s Bayou Billabong. A finalist from The Voice 2015, Gail Page will belt out some powerful soul drenching blues. The multi-award winning ‘Aboriginal BB King’, Mr Bobby Knox and sultry singer Kate Lush will take to the Girrakool stage under the big oak tree in the ampitheatre section of the Mt Penang Gardens.

The Dai Pritchard Blues Band will play in the setting of the Wondabyne Scupltures. Other acts include the dueling organs of Caolyn Pinecone Packer and Alison Penny, the Chicken Train Skifflers, Grizzlee Train and local alternate-country star Jessica Belle. Comedian George Smilovici will tie all the acts together as MC in the same vein as Bill Murray hosted the Eric Clapton Crossroads Festivals. “I feel the Central Coast is crying out for an event

like this and since it will be held in the stunning garden parklands, it will be easily accessible and cater to everyone from all walks of life,” Mr Johnson said. “Good music and good food is good for the soul,” he said. “It is what makes people feel good. “This is why we’ve incorporated all the elements, music, food, great surrounds, it has all the positives and can only be enriching for the soul.” Media release, Jan 11, 2016 Bruce Johnson, Girrakool Blues Festival and BBQ

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Exp: ______/______ Please complete credit card details or send a cheque or money order payable to

Central Coast Newspapers, PO Box 1056, Gosford NSW 2250

The Shame File

Central Coast Newspapers has a very liberal credit policy for advertisers and realises that from time to time, people, businesses and organisations get into financial difficulty and may need assistance and time to get things back on track. However, some people, businesses and organisations take advantage of this generosity they use advertising but simply don’t pay their account after several months and need to be taken to court to do so. From time to time, as necessary, we will name these people, businesses or organisations as a warning to our readers so that they will be wary when dealing with them. • Renotek, Tascott

Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

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Ecoburbia Festival wins community event award

Uncle Bob Williams receives Senior’s community award

ncle Bob Williams, a well-respected, local Aboriginal elder on the Central Coast, was the recipient of the Senior’s award in Gosford at the Annual Australia Day Community Awards.

Since retiring 10 years ago, Uncle Bob has committed himself to inspiring and connecting his community through a range of activities. Bob developed a didgeridoo group for young people aged four to sixteen years. The group has grown successfully over the past five years, and is now in demand for community events. Participants are provided with meals, and offered guidance and mentoring.

Bob has also established a Men’s Group which meets on a weekly basis to support one another with men’s health issues, and to look for ways to assist other Aboriginal people in the community. He also volunteers for Coast Shelter and delivers meals to community members experiencing difficulties. Uncle Bob is also involved with delivering Christmas hampers and presents for children. Bob has assisted and

mentored young people in the community, and in particular, young Aboriginal boys in local correctional facilities, and those who live away from their families. He has also organised bus trips for community members to attend significant cultural events around the State. Bob is a role model for young and old alike, and his service to his community is an inspiration to us all. Media release, Jan 25, 2016 Gosford Council media

Elvis gets 50th birthday present The Ecoburbia Festival committee with their award

his year’s Community event award, presented at the Annual Australia Day Community Awards in Gosford on January 25 went to the Ecoburbia Festival in Narara.

First held in April 2014, the Narara Ecoburbia Festival is a celebration of sustainable community development, bringing together likeminded individuals and organisations to promote local, sustainable living. Coordinated by the notfor-profit Narara Eco Living Network, over 300 people are involved in the festival’s

coordination, including more than 60 volunteers. Event numbers doubled from 2,000 to 4,000 attendees in the first two years, and the Festival is again set to attract record crowds when it is next held in April 2016. Enjoying passionate support from the local business community

and attracting strong sponsorship, the Ecoburbia Festival challenges and inspires people to live a more balanced and sustainable life. The Award was accepted by initiator and principal organiser, Joan Cassels. Media release, Jan 25, 2016 Gosford Council media

he Australian Reptile Park celebrated crocodile Elvis’ 50th birthday on Wednesday, January 6.

Elvis’ 50th birthday gift came in the form of half a large animal carcass. Head of reptiles at the park, Mr Billy Collett dressed as Elvis Presley and fed crocodile Elvis the carcass to death roll. Mr Collett said: “Elvis is one cranky crocodile, a wound inflicted by this guy would be extremely severe and this typically opportunistic predator is infamous for attacks on humans.

“He has gone for me a few times when feeding,” Mr Collett explained. Mr Collett had two colleagues in the enclosure with him as back up support. They lured Elvis out of the water with the carcass that was tied to a tree to demonstrate his pulling ability during the death roll. As consuming that amount would lead to Elvis entering hibernation for eight weeks, keepers distracted him once he completed his

death roll whilst the carcass was retrieved. Saltwater crocodiles were once hunted to the brink of extinction in Australia but following their status to be legally protect in QLD, NT and WA, their numbers have made a full recovery and are now listed as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Media release, Jan 4, 2016 Lizzie Doyle, Australian Reptile Park

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News

Barney Waters has had A-League leaders capitalise on two mistakes a lifetime involvement with music

Liam Rose celebrates with Luis Garcia Photo ccmariners.com

Barny Waters (centre front) with his New Empire Ballroom Ragtime Dance Orchestra

osford local Barney Waters was the winner of the Arts, Culture and Entertainment Award which was presented at the annual Australia Day Community Awards on January 25 in Gosford.

Barney’s contribution to the musical and cultural life of Gosford has spanned close to six decades. After joining the Gosford Junior Brass Band at the age of eight, Barney has been involved in almost every musical ensemble imaginable, both as a performer and committee member, including the Gosford Brass Band with

his three sons. A member of Gosford Musical Society’s pit orchestra since 1964, Barney has played for over 63 productions, and was recently honoured with Life Membership. Seven years ago, Barney realised a long-time ambition to create an authentic 1920s jazz orchestra. Under Barney’s musical

direction, The New Empire Ballroom Ragtime Dance Orchestra facilitates opportunities for talented young musicians aged 14 to 24 to play in a professional ensemble across a variety of venues, and has been met with critical acclaim. Media release, Jan 25, 2016 Gosford Council media

Surfaced Sessions showcase completed he Surfaced Sessions represents an idea by Coasties Entertainment to put on a collection of the Coast’s best emerging artists in a mini tour showcase at live music venues across the Central Coast.

An opportunity was provided for young artists to step up from smaller gigs and busking to larger venues with full sound, lighting, merchandise sales and larger crowds. The Sessions provided a mix of high-calibre young artists such as ‘Just

Between Us’, and ‘The Little Quirks’ with names that are on a rapid rise on the local music scene such as Kale Chiswick, Abbie Scott, Joshua Zaia and Toby Wells. The Surfaced Sessions have been running since August, and following large crowds at Kincumber Hotel,

Avoca Beach Hotel and The Bateau Bay Hotel, the series wrapped up in a big way at iconic Central Coast music venue, The Rhythm Hut on Friday, December 12. Media release, Dec 11, 2015 Paul Zaia, Coasties Entertainment

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10-man Central Coast Mariners conceded a heartbreaking goal to fall 2-1 at the hands of the Western Sydney Wanderers at Central Coast Stadium on Saturday, January 22.

After an evenly contested and feisty first 10 minutes, a defensive lapse resulted in an opening goal to Western Sydney with Storm Roux attempting to back pass only to have his ball pulled up short and Bridge poked home with ease. New number 10, Luis Garcia entered the fray with about 30 minutes remaining of the second half. He received a warm welcome from the 13,000-strong home crowd and made an instant impact on the home side’s confidence and demeanor. The Spaniard showed some serious signs of quality when he was on the pitch. Within minutes, Luis Garcia’s masterful footwork threaded the needle for Austin on the left wing who

then delivered a perfect ball and Ferreira was on hand to tap home. “The weight of the pass to put Mitch Austin through was superb and we scored from it so if he can have that sort of impact on the times he comes on, then we are on a winner,” said coach Tony Walmsley. “We’ve got players who make good runs and we need someone to find them and he can certainly do that,” Walmsley said. After going a man down when Nick Montgomery was shown red, it was always going to be an uphill battle to withstand an attack from the league leaders. “The red card obviously changed the game. “It made life difficult for us, but it’s the fourth game we’ve ended with 10 men

and it’s not something I’m happy about,” Walmsley said. “I thought we were in the ascendency in the second half. “They couldn’t get the ball off us and we were creating chances, so with a little bit more quality on a couple of occasions, we could have grabbed something.” Santalab was the man who pounced on a crucial lapse in defence to seal the win. “If you turn over the ball cheaply in the back third, they’re likely to get a shot on target. “Credit to Wanderers who capitalised on two mistakes.” Media release, Jan 23, 2016 Tyson Scott, Central Coast Mariners

SPORT

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Council lifeguards aim to win Cook Cup for 4th consecutive year

osford Council lifeguards are hoping for their fourth straight win on Friday, January 29, as they go head to head with Wyong Council lifeguards in the annual Lifeguard Challenge at Shelly Beach.

Now in its 34th year, the Lifeguard Challenge displays friendly sportsmanship between the two councils, along with camaraderie amongst teams. Everyone can cheer on their favourites with team and individual events including a board, swim and lifeguard mission relay. Mayor of Gosford Cr Lawrie McKinna said he was looking forward to another exciting encounter between

the teams. “I know Gosford lifeguards are keen to hold on to the Cook Cup Winning Trophy for a fourth consecutive year,” Cr McKinna said. “They are a formidable team - last year they also went on to win the InterCouncil Challenge at Bondi Beach, beating other councils from across the state,” he said. “I want to wish all competitors the very best of

T ide Char T FORT DENISON

LAT 33° 51’ S - LONG 151° 14’ E - TIME ZONE - 1000 Times and Heights(m) of high and low waters

Time - Height(m) Add one hour to the times below when Daylight Saving is in force

28 THU

31 SUN

0437 0.53 1052 1.61 1715 0.42 2329 1.40

29 FRI

0146 1.38 0054 1.38 0800 0.72 0657 0.69 MON 1348 1.25 1253 1.33 2002 0.62 1911 0.58

0346 1.43 1025 0.68 WED 1611 1.18 THU 2203 0.63

0623 1.69 1303 0.39 1856 1.35 SUN

SAT

0444 1.50 1127 0.60 1715 1.22 2300 0.59

30 SAT

2 TUE

5 FRI

0009 1.39 0604 0.64 1207 1.42 1828 0.53 0245 1.39 0912 0.72 1457 1.19 2102 0.64 0535 1.59 1218 0.50 1809 1.28 2350 0.53

0124 0.38 0037 0.46 0752 1.87 0708 1.79 MON 1427 0.22 1345 0.30 2025 1.51 1941 1.43

0300 0.30 0211 0.33 0924 1.93 0837 1.92 1508 0.17 WED 1551 0.15 2156 1.61 2110 1.57

TUE

0519 0.59 1128 1.52 1750 0.48

11 THU

0350 0.29 1011 1.88 1635 0.18 2245 1.63

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

luck. “The Lifeguard Challenge is a fantastic demonstration of the professionalism, expertise and talents of the hard-working lifeguards employed by both councils. “It’s going to be a great opportunity to show our support for the people who patrol and safeguard our beaches each summer,” Mayor McKinna said. The Lifeguard Challenge began in 1982, with the first event held at Terrigal Beach. Results currently stand at Gosford 22 wins and Wyong 11 wins. Media release, Jan 27, 2016 Gosford Council media

Lauren Smith to play in Women’s Big Bash League Final orth Gosford’s Lauren Smith continues to be selected in the Sydney Sixers squads as they secured a spot in the final of the inaugural Women’s Big Bash League Final.

After losing their first six matches, the Sixers steamed home with eight wins in a row heading into the semi finals. On Thursday, January 14, Ms Smith was picked in the 13-side Sydney Sixers squad that played three games at home in a bid to secure their semi-finals berth. They played Hobart Hurricanes at Waverley Oval on Friday, January 15. Their game against Sydney Thunder at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Saturday, January 16 was broadcast by Channel 10. They played the Hobart

Hurricanes again on Sunday, January 17 when a spectacular last ball finish secured their spot in the inaugural Women’s Big Bash League finals with a two-wicket victory. The semi-final against the Hurricanes was played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday, 22 January. The match was described as a “clinical run-chase in a rain effected game”. After the match was restricted to 14 overs a side due to early rain, a second shower storm immediately during the innings break saw the Sixers required to

chase 55 runs in eight overs. The Hurricanes won the toss and elected to bat, but it was the Sixers who got off to a perfect start when Alyssa Healy took an excellent diving catch in front of first slip to remove Veronica Pyke (0) from the second ball of the match. The Sixers now await a match up with the Sydney Thunder in the inaugural final and the lineup will include Ms Smith. Emails, Jan 14, 17, 21, 2016 Jodie Hawkins, Sydney Sixers

Avoca Beach surf boat teams win bronze at nationals

wo Avoca Beach surf boat racing teams competed successfully in the Team Navy Australian Surf Rowers League national short course championships at Manly on January 24.

The Avoca Beach Dog Squad came third in the Under 23 Men’s event and the Avoca Beach Gruntz came third in the Under 19 Mixed event. The fifth round of the NSW arm of the 2015-16 Team Navy Australian Surf Rowers League (ASRL) Series was contested at Manly SLSC on Saturday, January 23 followed by the National Short Course Championships on Sunday,

January 24. Divisions of surfboat racing being contested include Open Men, Open Women, Reserve Men, Reserve Women, Under 23 Male, Under 23 Female, Under 19 Men, Under 19 Female and Masters. Over 200 crews making up 1,000 competitors represented approximately 100 clubs from across the state and country The Australian Surf

Rowers League was born in New South Wales in 1992 as the International League of Australian Surfboat Rowers Inc. (ILOR) and currently has over 3,000 members from over 260 clubs which make up over 550 crews. Media release, Jan 20, 2016 Jodie Artis, Australian Surf Rowers League

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Coast Community News - January 28, 2016 - Page 31 SShare

New Surf Club lease arrangements being implemented

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SPORT

Youth League Grand Final played in Gosford

errigal Surf Life Saving Club will benefit from new measures introduced by the NSW Government that means it will not have to go through a lengthy process to renew its long-term lease.

Parliamentary secretary for the Central Coast, Mr Scot MacDonald MLC welcomed the landmark agreement between the NSW Government and Surf Life Saving NSW to cut red tape for surf clubs on the Central Coast so they can focus on keeping our beaches safe. The new club lease package removes the need for clubs and councils to negotiate new lease arrangements and provides a 20 year minimum lease. “This is a massive win for surf clubs on the Central Coast,” Mr MacDonald said. “The agreement covers all surf life saving clubs on Crown land on the Central Coast. “It ensures consistency

and fairness for club leases on the Central Coast and recognises legitimate fund raising activities by clubs to support themselves.” “Local councils on the Central Coast are also to be congratulated for their role in the agreement and I am sure they will welcome this new approach to surf lifesaving club leases.” “The NSW Government will work on implementing the package with reserve managers, Surf Life Saving NSW and clubs, starting with those at the end, or near the end, of their current lease.” Media release, Jan 25, 2016 Email, Jan 25, 2016 Mitchell Cutting, office of Scot MacDonald

The Sky Blues won the Youth League Grand Final at Central Coast Stadium

osford’s Central Coast Stadium hosted the Foxtel National Youth League 2016 Grand Final between Adelaide United and Sydney FC on Saturday, January 23, before the Central Coast Mariners versus Western Sydney Wanderers A-League match.

The Sky Blues sealed their second title in three years with a two goal brace from Alex Mullen along with strikes from Chris Zuvela, Max Burgess and Cristian Gonzalez. Head Coach Robbie Stanton won the trophy in his first year in charge of the young Sky Blues who will now head into their NSW National Premier League 2 campaign. “I thought it would have been a little bit tighter but we were quite ruthless going forward and I thought we were really on song today. “At times we looked like we were going to score every time we went forward,” Mr Stanton said. “In the end, we took a lot of those chances so it’s a very pleasing day and I think we had a very good day and maybe they were a little bit off,” he said. Captain Yianni Spyrakis said: “The boys came out

and from the start we were ready to go and five goals shows we ran over the top of them in the end.” Sydney FC booked their place in the FOXTEL National Youth League 2016 Grand Final as winners of Conference B after defeating FFA Centre of Excellence 3-2.

Adelaide United wrapped up top spot in Conference A to secure its place in the decider. The match was the second time Adelaide United and Sydney FC featured in a National Youth League decider after the Sky Blues defeated the Reds 2-0 to be crowned champions in the

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2008-09 season. “The National Youth League showcases some of Australia’s best young talent and I’m sure the players will relish the opportunity to put their skills on display to a televised audience,” said Head of the Hyundai A-League, Damien de Bohun. Media release, Jan 19, 2016 Nick Kerber, Football Federation Australia Website, Jan 25, 2016

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