Issue 140 of COAST Community News by Central Coast Newspapers

FRE

August 25, 2016

Your independent local newspaper

Issue 140

Ph: 4325 7369

Gosford City is facing a parking crisis with no plan in place osford City is facing a parking crisis, with uncertainty, confusion and c o n g e s t i o n surrounding the city’s major car parks.

With the fate of the 400 free car parks atop Kibbleplex (formerly Marketplace) unclear, commuters already fed up with Gosford’s parking situation are concerned about the city’s lack of dedicated free parking. The potential loss of the free Kibbleplex parking is not the end of Gosford’s parking woes, with commuters questioning the safety and useability of the Baker St car park, and outright dismissal of the free commuter parking opposite Gosford Train Station, which is nonexistent after 6am. To make matters worse, with the controversial ATO building poised to begin construction on the waterfront, the political promise of 600 jobs may prove disastrous for commuters when an army of temporary workers and the building’s permanent staff descend on the city’s highly sought after parking spaces. The ATO, which has already soured residents who believed the former Gosford School site was better suited to a Performing Arts Precinct, was revealed to have a shortfall of onsite parking for future employees. In June, the Joint Regional Planning Panel found that the ATO’s developer, Doma, would need to add 13 extra parking spaces for the public in Baker St. Despite the JRPP’s findings, it is unclear whether this will be enough to accommodate the dramatic increase in activity and traffic to and around the site, and according to former Gosford Councillor, Ms Vicki Scott, the ATO is

The commuter car park opposite Gosford Train Station

not the only development in the city that has the potential to tip the parking issue over the edge. Ms Scott said the CBD and the immediate surrounding areas of West Gosford, North Gosford, East Gosford and Point Frederick, are definitely facing a parking shortfall, and that residential developments approved, despite not providing adequate parking allocation, were to blame. “Parking issues are more than just availability of commuter parking. “Many of the residential developments that have been approved in the CBD and immediate surrounds are for two or three bedroom units, but the parking allocation has only been one per unit, not one spot per bedroom. “So if a three-bedroom unit becomes share housing, one resident will have a car park within the development but where will the other two residents park?

“They will be looking for spots on the street,” Ms Scott said. Ms Scott also said that the problem is already evident in areas like Point Frederick and East Gosford, where flat buildings have come online and street parking is still an issue. “Although the former Gosford Council discussed and intended to come up with a CBD parking strategy, I have checked and there isn’t one. “There is nothing in place. “What will happen when all the big developments come online and what will happen to parking if they all start at the same time? “Where will the parking be?” Ms Scott questioned. According to Ms Scott, during discussions with the former Gosford Council, she brought up issues of traffic and parking management multiple times, including: “The acceptance of a number of large developments in the CBD without having adequate

parking for residents of those developments and others; cramped parking around developments in Point Frederick (Lynn Ave) and other sites in North and West Gosford; the lack of common sense in agreeing to allow developments of two and three bedroom apartment buildings to be constructed with only one car space per unit at best (Ms Scott said there was an expectation that people will walk or take the bus to the station); the narrow streets in some of these areas and the existing parking problem; and, consideration for the huge impact when the new developments are completed. “I had suggested we should do a traffic management study for the area with these concerns in mind, but there appeared to be minimal interest in my concerns,” Ms Scott added. On the concerns surrounding Baker St car park, Ms Scott said the former council had

endeavoured to add more floors onto the car park but said there were issues with the building being able to support extra floors and that she was unsure as to whether or not any further action surrounding Baker St car park occurred after the initial idea tanked. However, Ms Scott said she could understand commuter concerns over the safety of using Baker St car park, especially after hours. Ms Scott also said that aside from the future of Kibbleplex, no other discussion took place amongst the former Gosford Council in regards to parking in the CBD and that despite her own questions about the future of parking in Gosford City, there has been no satisfactory response. The issue is further complicated by the interrelation of parking as a social issue and a State Government responsibility. “There is an element of responsibility for the State

Government in this. “Rail transport, as a form of commuter travel, is the responsibility of the State Government and there is some expectation that that government takes an active interest in the problem. “However, socially, it is seen as a Local Government matter, and the public expects Local Government to play a part in it as well. “To my knowledge, there were no plans or strategies discussed between the last council and the State Government to address the issues of commuter parking,” Ms Scott said. “I hope the current council takes these concerns and acts on them before any more development is approved. “The city CBD and the surrounding suburbs is a small area. “The CBD has three streets taking the traffic through it. “These streets are cramped between a mountain and the water. “There is no apparent way to solve the problem, and increased parking demand is just exacerbating it. “The fact that the DA for the ATO was allowed without sufficient parking is also going to exacerbate the problem,” Ms Scott continued. “I don’t know what the council can do about this, but it certainly seems that the Federal and State Governments are failing in their responsibilities in this matter. “I think, if the commuter car parking at Kibbleplex is stopped without a solution from the State and the council, and the ATO and other developments are actually built, car parking in the CBD, including commuter car parking, will be a disastrous problem that will take far too long to solve, if ever,” Ms Scott concluded. Continued Page 8

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

READ & SHARE WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

DIRECTORY

Page 2 - Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 Share

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

Your chance to win!

GOSFORD LGA EMERGENCY SERVICES DIRECTORY

oast Community News and Jasnor Australia Pty Ltd would like to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a miniature replica of a sculpture from Cowparade, the largest public art event in the world.

Ambulance, Police, Fire 000

a miniature replica of the 2011 Austin sculpture by local artist Elizabeth Sullivan. Measuring 30.5cm by 19.5cm but valued at $175, the sculpture features a vibrant blue background with an assortment of musical instruments from guitars to tambourines and even an accordion. To be in the draw to win Cowiunto Music, write your full name, address and daytime phone

number on the back of an envelope and mail it to Coast Community News Jasnor Competition, PO Box 1056, Gosford, NSW, 2250, by 5:00pm on Tuesday, September 6. The winners of the Coast Community News Operation Christmas Child competition were Maree Sulter of Mount White and Richard Ryan of Summerland Point.

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

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.

Encompassing over 75 host cities and thousands of artists, the Cowparade movement features lifesized fibreglass sculptures of cows that have been painted and decorated by professional and amateur artists from the host city. Jasnor has made the sculptures available as a complete range of collectable figurines. One lucky Coast Community News reader can win Cowiunto Music,

Kids Helpline 1800 551 800 Parents Helpline 13 20 55 Indigenous Call Centre 136 380 Aboriginal Legal Service 8842 8000 Family Relationship Advice Line 1800 050 321 Community Options 4351 3388 Family Drug Support 1300 368 186 Bungree Aboriginal Association 4397 7700 G-line - Gambling Helpline 1800 633 635 Mingaletta 4342 7515 Credit Helpline 1800 808 488 Aboriginal Home Care 4321 7215 Child Support Agency 13 12 72 Drug & Alcohol rehab 4388 6360 Australian Injury Helpline 1800 223 363 Respite Care Options 4351 3388 Veteran Affairs Net work 1300 551 918 Eleanor Duncan Aboriginal Health 4351 1040 Mens Domestic Violence 1800 000 599 Darkinjung Local Land Council 4351 2930 Sexual Assault Resource 1800 199 888 Gay and Lesbian Counselling 1800 184 527 Dept. of Housing Gosford 4323 5211 Gay and Lesbian Support 1800 249 377 Regional Youth Support Services 4323 2374 Youth Sexuality Network 4320 2856 Coast Shelter 4324 7239 Vietnam Veterans 1800 043 503 Neleh House 4340 1052 Elandra Women and Children’s Refuge 4396 4263 Victims Support Services 1800 633 063 Kara Women and Children’s Refuge 4323 1709 Translation and Interpreting Service 13 14 50 Coimba Mens Refuge 4324 7239 Parents Helpline 132 055 Rumbalara Youth Refuge 4325 7555 Central Coast Family Support Service 4340 1099 Wyong Youth Refuge 4351 1922 Horizons (For men with children) 4351 5008 Youth Angle 4341 8830 Interrelate - Family Relationships 1300 736 966 Woy Woy Youth Cottage 4341 9027 Uniting Care Burnside Maya Young Womens Refuge 4323 1636 Gosford 1800 067 967 Pacific Link Com Housing 4324 7617

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Organisations

Accommodation

Family and Relationships

About us Central Coast Newspapers is a local, family owned business that publishes and distributes three Central Coast Newspapers every fortnight. All staff are also locals and between them, the three papers cover the entire Central Coast. Each paper focuses specifically on an area bound by postcodes as follows:

Health

Rumbalara Youth Refuge 4325 7555 Samaritans Youth Services 4351 1922 Youth Angle • Woy Woy 4341 8830 Temporary Accommodation 1800 152 152

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

Animal Rescue Wildlife Arc 4325 0666 Wires 1300 094 737

Counselling

Problems, Habits & Addiction

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

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

Emergency

Welfare Services

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

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

Publisher/Editor:

Senior journalist:

Cec Bucello

Assistant Journalists:

Jackie Pearson Journalist: Dilon Luke Photo Journalist Noel Fisher

Graphic design: Justin Stanley

Sales: Val Bridge,

Jasmine Gearie, Caitlin Lavelle, Emma Hawes, Cole Newman

Ph: 4325 7369 Email: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Next Edition: Coast Community News 141 Deadline: Setember 6 Publication date: September 8 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

also, see the Not for Profit organisations directory inside

2260 - Foresters Beach, Nortfh Avoca, Terrigal, Wamberal ISSN 1839-9045 - Print Post Approved - PP100001843 - Printed by New Age Printing

Get the most out of your advertising dollar

Advertise in a Central Coast Newspaper for maximum exposure at a realistic price. Multiple booking and multiple publication discounts apply to all display advertisements. Enjoy the benefits of being in a well-read publication with relevant news content. Contact us now for more information or visit our website. Peninsula Community Access Edition 398

FRE

July 28, 2016

A commercial ﬁsher from Umina has been apprehended in possession of illegallytaken lobster and mulloway.

unlawful use of a net or trap,” Mr Andrews said. The fisherman was apprehended and the Eastern Rock Lobsters were returned to the water by officers. Under the Fisheries Management Act 1994, the fisherman faces maximum penalties of between six months and 10 years imprisonment and up to $44,000 in fines. “Stealing fish and black marketing, as well as damage to fish habitats are serious problems that can impact on the sustainability of our fish stocks across NSW. “We encourage anyone who sees illegal fishing activity to report it to their nearest Fisheries office, phone our hotline or make an online report,” said Mr Andrews. Commercial fishers in the region were reminded to adhere to the fishing regulations for Eastern Rock Lobsters and estuary fish species. Media release, 19 Jul 2016 Mel Hamling, NSW Department of Primary Industries

Seized Eastern Rock Lobsters

Council election needs to be held before September 2017 - Primrose

For sale: Bullion St car park The Bullion St car park in Umina is for sale. Expressions of interest have been called for the 0.53 hectares of land between Bullion St and Alfred St. Described by Wilsons Estate Agency at Woy Woy as: “A landmark opportunity in the Umina CBD”, the land is zoned B2 for “mixed use” which means it can be developed for a mix of commercial and residential purposes under the 2014 Gosford Local Environment Plan. Wilsons selling agent Mr Jim Martin said the council had the community’s interests at heart by putting a “positive covenant” on the land to ensure that any new development included 160 public car spaces. Mr Martin said the impetus behind council’s decision to sell the land for development was coming from the NSW Government’s vision for the Central Coast over the next 20 years. “The NSW Department of Planning released a document about the rapid increase in population that is going to occur between Sydney and Newcastle over the next 20 years,” Mr Martin said. “It will be one of the most popular residential corridors in Australia where people will want to live and that will increase the

region’s population by 80,000 in two decades,” he said. According to Mr Martin, 40 per cent of those new residents will want to live on the Peninsula, in the area between Umina and Woy Woy. That is one of the reasons why the Gosford Local Environment Plan of 2014 reviewed all zoning, including in town centres and CBDs, to allow mixed use. In the town centres of Umina, Ettalong and Woy Woy, this could result in in-fill developments that included a ground floor of commercial and retail premises with up to five storeys of residential accommodation above, he said. According to Mr Martin, the Bullion St car park is one of the only consolidated pieces of land in the Umina CBD that could accommodate a larger mixed-use development. “When you look around the Umina CBD, just about all of the allotments are the regular 560 square metre blocks so you can’t get the height to build anything lofty around that area,” he said. Even though the Bullion St land includes 10 individual titles, Mr Martin said the council’s intention was to sell it as one parcel to accommodate a development with the potential to “revitalise the Umina CBD”. “Essentially the developer has

the option of doing the whole of the car parking underground and then building three handsome towers on the site,” he said. “Or they may decide to put parking in one area and then build two mixed use towers towards the West St end of the land.” The closing date for expressions of interest is September 16, to give prospective purchasers the opportunity to view the land, work out affordability and work with planning consultants and council representatives to put a proposal forward. Mr Martin said he was very optimistic about the current attitude of the new Central Coast Council. “They are displaying a very futuristic attitude that is a 100 degree turn around on what we had ﬁve or 10 years ago. “They are starting to speak the right language. “The way the council is approaching the future is that we have got to move forward to mobilise all centres on the Peninsula. “We can’t be dogmatic and the council is wanting to see nice developments for the area,” he said. Website, 14 Jul 2016 Realcommercial.com.au Interview, 19 Jul 2016 Jim martin, Wilsons Real Estate Woy Woy Reporter: Jackie Pearson

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

Mr Primrose was responding to questions about how residents could ensure the Central Coast Council administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, could be accountable to the community for issues such as building a regional performing arts centre and regional library in Gosford, cleaning up the Mangrove Mountain landfill, reclassification and sale of community land, or progressing other major developments in the Gosford CBD. “How could you possibly expect one person to be administrator and still apply the same level of oversite and consultation as nine councillors and a mayor,” Mr Primrose said. “We have been finding that councils under administration have been putting their business papers out late, there has been far less business discussed at meetings and the administrator can’t possibly go to the dozens of meetings and talk to community groups and constituents that former councillors would have gone to. “That is where things that the community was concerned about would have been flagged and where elected councillors would have been able to test out opinions about things and know what to raise,” he said. “Those are the sorts of things that make local government local and whether or not you support the amalgamations, why on earth are the administrators continuing until September 2017?”

Mr Primrose said he had made formal requests to the Electoral Commissioner and the premier, Mr Mike Baird, under the Government Information Public Access Act 2009 (GIPA) asking them to show reasons why the elections for merged councils can’t be held until September 2017.

back to the premier.” Mr Primrose said the NSW Government and Central Coast Council could also provide the community with more information about the cost of the council merger. “We know from the past the costs and outcomes of previous mergers, so the

“How could you possibly expect one person to be administrator and still apply the same level of oversite and consultation as nine councillors and a mayor,” Mr Primrose said. “They won’t tell us…they have refused my application stating it is not in the public interest to tell me why we can’t have elections earlier so I am going to the administrative appeals tribunal,” Mr Primrose said. “Why can’t the continuing merger happen with the oversite of an elected council and mayor? “Be they sinners of saints, the administrators are not representatives of the local community,” he said. Mr Primrose said although the administrator was paid out of council (ratepayer) funds, he was accountable to Mr Baird, not the community. “They are obliged to provide voluminous reports back to the premier; initially it was weekly, but they’ve now scaled that back to fortnightly, but it is not about ﬁnancial details, it is only the good news stories, so the state government can create positive headlines about its mergers,” he said. “There cannot be proper scrutiny when all the gatekeepers are reporting

department of Premier and Cabinet should be able to give estimates of current merger costs now,” he said. Mr Primrose also addressed questions about how long the community should have to wait until Mr Reynolds had received and analysed reports on controversial issues such as the former Gosford Council’s proposed Land Sale Strategy that could result in twenty five community reserves being reclassified as operational land and sold off for development. “If it was a full council, I would say a month, but you have got one individual, and it is very difficult to expect one person to do the job while they are also engaging in staff reviews and writing reports for the premier,” he said. “The proper solution is to let the local community elect its own local council,” he said. Interview, Jul 20, 2016 Peter Primrose, NSW shadow minister for local government Jackie Pearson, journalist

August 2, 2016

he Australian Coal Alliance is organising a public meeting to inform the northern Central Coast community about the latest developments in their long-running campaign to stop the Wallarah 2 coal mine.

section 96 application is being considered by Central Coast Council for the $17.6 million redevelopment of the Dutton’s Tavern site at 157 to 161 Mann St Gosford.

The application will see a reduction in the number of units, increased basement parking and the inclusion of the land at 163 Mann St, located between the development site and the Imperial Centre. The former Gosford Council approved DA47056/2015 in December for a 14-storey mixed use development comprised of a tavern and shop top housing. The development was subsequently acquired from Mr Bob Bourne by Mr John Singleton and the adjoining property at 163 Mann St

was acquired. The latest application to modify the development, now called Bonython, was received by Central Coast Council on May 27 and is currently working its way through a consultation process. Council granted the development a two-year consent, so work will need to be underway before December 2017 to ensure the approval for the project does not lapse. The development will include a tavern, provide new residential opportunities and has the

advantage of being located close to public transport. Gosford Council approved a minor variation in the ﬂoor space ratio for the development and made allowances for car parking. Two podium levels will include 15 residential units. Floors three through to 12 will house another 54 residential units and there will be two penthouse apartments on the top ﬂoor. Website, Jul 27, 2016 Central Coast Council Find an application, DA47056/2015

The existing Tavern

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

READ & SHARE WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

Issue 97

Wallarah 2 coal mine decision now only a few weeks away

T An artist’s impression of the mixed use development approved for 155 to 161 Mann St Gosford

Your independent community newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369

Director of the alliance’s Water Not Coal campaign, Mr Alan Hayes, said the meeting would be held at Wyong RSL on August 10. The Korean mining company KORES has lodged an amended development proposal that includes plans to build a conveyor belt and alter the route of the rail spur to avoid having to reach an agreement with the Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council. Plans have been modified relating to the rail loop, rail spur line and train load out facility. The project has been modified to realign the sewer connection. The State Significant Development was recently lodged with the Planning Assessment Commission and is on public exhibition (but not advertised in this newspaper) for six weeks, with a closing date of September 6. According to Mr Hayes, the Planning Assessment Commission did not approve the coal mine in 2014, but stated that there may be justification to approve the mine if all the commission’s

The Greens NSW mining spokesperson, Mr Jeremy Buckingham, has called on NSW premier, Mr Mike Baird, to intervene to stop the Wallarah 2 underground coal mine project. “The Coalition made a solemn promise not to allow the Wallarah 2 coal mine to go ahead,” Mr Buckingham said. “Former premier, Mr Barry O’Farrell, told a crowd that the mine would not go ahead ‘no ifs, no buts, a guarantee’. “Yet years later, the NSW Coalition Government has failed to implement this promise,” Mr Buckingham said. “This coal mine is a risk not only to the water catchment of the The latest plans include a relocated rail loop (shown in purple) Central Coast, but to the the main access to the credibility of the Liberal other concerns could be plans. Party when it makes Mr Hayes said the new development. addressed. proposal Mr Hayes said that in commitments to the Those concerns development included the mine’s would see the conveyor 2014, Dr Peter Lewis, electorate. “It should fulﬁl those impact on the Central belt transporting coal 200 the clinical director of the Coast’s water supply, metres from the south- Central Coast integrated commitments and reject subsidence and the health western boundary of the care program, said the the mine. “The Korean Blue Haven residential expected mortality rate effects of coal dust. has The Darkinjung Local area and as far north as for coal dust related to the Government Wallarah 2 mine could be announced a restructure Aboriginal Land Council Wyee. of its state owned resource “Tooheys Rd would one on 100,000. took the matter to the “Wyong CBD is ﬁve companies that will see Land and Environment disappear because that Court, which ruled that road does not have a wide kilometres from the them withdraw from resource the mine could not go verge on either side and proposed coal handling international ahead without permission KORES doesn’t own any facilities, Blue Haven projects, so it is unclear to utilise Darkinjung land in that area, so they and Lake Haven are why the government would be wanting the even closer, and there should approve a mine land. The new proposal does conveyor to run along the are schools, hospitals and plan for a company likely not include Darkinjung carriage way,” Mr Hayes aged care facilities,” Mr to leave the market. “There is no need to said. Hayes said. land. The Darkinjung “The Planning build this coal mine. CEO of the Darkinjung “The community are LALC, Mr Sean Gordon, Local Aboriginal Land Assessment Commission bitterly opposed. declined to comment Council already has has rejected four coal “The company doesn’t on the impact the latest approval for a 500 lot mines already this year Wallarah II proposal may residential sub-division because of their proximity want to build it, it just have on the Darkinjung that would be impacted to residential areas,” he wants an approval to sell. “It’s a dud mine, with land and development because Tooheys Rd is said.

no future, that Mike Baird should knock on the head. “The proposed coal conveyor belt and coal loading area are unacceptably close to the existing residential neighbourhood of Blue Haven and may impact on plans by the Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council for residential development in the area.” Central Coast Council concerns about the effect on the drinking water catchment, environment and residential areas, will be central to its review of modiﬁed plans for the Wallarah 2 Coal Project. The former Wyong Shire Council opposed the mine in February 2014 due to the potential impacts on the drinking water catchment areas. The former Gosford City Council also opposed the project in March 2014. Council has stated it intends to closely review the revised plans with a view to lodging a submission. Council has also encouraged community members to take this opportunity to have their voice heard. Information regarding the project is available from NSW Planning’s major projects website. Media release, Jul 26, 2016 Central Coast Council media Media release, Jul 26, 2016 Max Phillips, ofﬁce of Jeremy Buckingham Interview, Jul 29, 2017 Alan Hayes, Australian Coal Alliance 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

8 August 2016

The Peninsula is becoming the granny flat capital of the Central Coast, according to Peninsula Chamber of Commerce president Mr Matthew Wales. At the same time, during the past two years, it has experienced a medium density development slowdown, he said. Mr Wales said onerous mediumdensity development control plans were the reason for the trend. He said the evidence was that council had reported no increase in Section 94 contributions during that period. “Most unit developments on the Peninsula are from older approvals before the Development Control Plans were changed for medium density requirements,” Mr Wales said. He said he believed investors were finding it more lucrative to build granny flats than to build units for sale. According to Mr Wales, granny flats on the Peninsula were generating investment returns of between five and six per cent. In most locations a home on the Peninsula with a granny flat would achieve a sale price of around $800,000, Mr Wales said. High demand for rental properties made it possible to purchase a granny flat, have it constructed and tenanted within 10 weeks. The investment outlay for an attractive granny flat would be between $120,000 and $140,000 and weekly rentals can vary from $300 to $450 per week. Weekly rental income on a Peninsula investment property with a granny flat in the back garden could be as high as $800 – a much better return than currently on offer from term deposits or shares. The popularity of granny flats

did have its down side, according to Mr Wales. It was possible to construct a granny plan without lodging a development application with council under State Environmental Planning Policy (Affordable Rental Housing) 2009. By providing a granny flat that would be deemed to be affordable housing, all that was required was a complying development certificate, which meant no council involvement. The need for a development application could be triggered if the person building the granny flat needed to remove a tree or put in drainage, Mr Wales said. The granny flat tenants put pressure on local roads, town centres, infrastructure and amenities but the development “did not put a single cent into council coffers”, he said. A granny flat was not rated separately, the council did not earn any Section 94 contributions from its development and the developer did not have to provide any parking, he said. As a snapshot, applications for 20 granny flats on the Peninsula were determined during July 2016. That’s around 240 additional dwellings on the Peninsula per year that did not pay rates. If council was to introduce a Section 94 contribution of $5000 per granny flat, they would earn $1.2 million per year to reinvest in Peninsula infrastructure. Interview, 3 Aug 2016 Matthew Wales, Peninsula Chamber of Commerce Reporter: Jackie Pearson Peninsula News has asked council for verification of the level of Section 94 contributions and medium density development applications and will report its response in the next edition.

August 11, 2016

Your independent local newspaper

ocuments obtained by the Mountain Districts Association from the NSW Office of Water, show the landfill at Mangrove Mountain has flouted legal requirements necessary to protect natural water resources, since at least 2005.

New safety warnings are difﬁcult to miss when using the rail underpass

Rail underpass re-opened The Woy Woy Road rail underpass re-opened on August 1, following the completion of emergency repair works by Sydney Trains over the last three months. Sydney Trains ﬁnished constructing protection columns around the rail bridge’s support structures and installing new, 2.5

metre height restriction bars on both sides of the underpass. Central Coast Council was putting the ﬁnishing touches on Sydney Trains repair works over last weekend (August 6-7) by installing median strips on the approaches to the underpass. The council has asked motorists to be aware that the underpass’ height limit has been reduced to 2.5 metres.

Anyone towing a caravan, carrying oversized objects on roof racks or driving a truck must use an alternate route. Sydney Trains closed the underpass in April after a large truck attempted to use it and became wedged underneath one of the previous height restriction bars. Media release, 1 Aug 2016 Ron Noble, Central Coast Council

The association used the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 to access documents that tell a damning story of malfeasance by two landfill operators, the Gosford Council and the NSW Environmental Protection Authority, in relation to their responsibility to keep the Central Coast’s water supply safe. The documents show that officers from the NSW Office of Water, within the Department of Primary Industries (and its former equivalents), have been raising concerns about the operation of the landfill for at least 10 years (2005 to 2015). Despite concerns raised by the Office of Water, Gosford Council, as consent authority, and the EPA as the licencing authority, continued to allow the landfill to operate. The Mountain Districts Association has been requesting a meeting with the former Gosford Council, and the new Central Coast Council, since January 2016. The new Central Coast Council has finally agreed to meet with the Mountain

An Ofﬁce of Water photo from 2012 showing poor management of ground and surface water at the landﬁll

Districts Association on August 23 to discuss the landfill. The EPA, although it has agreed to an independent review of the landfill’s operations, continues to work with the operator to apply new licencing conditions which would allow the site to recommence taking waste. The EPA has informed the Mountain Districts Association that, during the week from August 1 to 5, the EPA and Office of Water met the landfill operator at the site to again discuss water licencing and approvals. The GIPA documents outlining past failures to deal with water licencing and approvals are extensive and detailed. This article includes only key points in the documents,

but the facts uncovered support the Mountain Districts Association’s call for a full commission of inquiry by the NSW Government, the immediate closure of the landﬁll and full remediation of the site.

2015 Documents from 2012 to 2015 relate to future activities proposed at the landfill if the EPA issues new licencing conditions. The most recent document from the Office of Water was dated September 2015, following an inspection of the landfill site by officers which confirmed recent construction work undertaken to reshape a sediment dam wall and construct a new spillway. “Recent works are not to an acceptable standard and

likely to fail,” the document said. This work was subject to the Land and Environment Court Consent of 2012 but, according to the document,

unsatisfactory. According to the report: “It appears that no formal …review has been required to consider the potential groundwater impacts of this development. “The nature of the activity, and the magnitude and sensitivity of the location warrant an assessment of the potential impacts against the Aquifer Interference Policy ‘minimal impact considerations’, should the development proceed [under yet-to-be finalised new EPA licencing conditions],” the document said. In terms of whether the existing landfill has had any impact on groundwater, an August 2012 site inspection by the Office of Water concluded: “Evidence gathered onsite indicates that the groundwater table has been intercepted by excavation with seepages noted up to approximately half the height of the pit.

“Recent works are not to an acceptable standard and likely to fail.” had been carried out without Controlled Activity Approval being granted by the Ofﬁce of Water.

2014 In January 2014 the Ofﬁce of Water commented that proposals for groundwater monitoring at the site were

“Inspection of the river and the waterfront land along the northern boundary indicates signiﬁcant harm caused by sedimentation and uncontrolled runoff. “The wall of the basin appears likely to fail and cause additional major harm to the river. “Leechate seepage entering surface water stormwater drains

indicates high potential for contamination of surface waters and groundwaters.” The officer who completed the site inspection recommended immediate compliance action for the extraction of groundwater, damage to waterfront land and to refuse an application for controlled activity approval. The “waterfront” referred to was described by the Office of Water as “forming part of the headwaters of the Wyong River”. The landfill operator (Verde Terra) responded by supplying the Office of Water with information that Gosford Council had granted a Section 96 amendment to its original development consent and an addendum to a Landfill Environmental Management Plan. Verde Terra was told they had no consent under the Water Management Act 2000 to undertake proposed works.

2012 According to the Office of Water documents, Gosford Council did not express concerns to the Office of Water about the landfill’s activities being potentially in breach of its development consent until August 2012. The years 2011 and 2012 represented a period of heightened correspondence between the Office of Water, Gosford Council and the landfill operator. Continued Page 8

THIS ISSUE contains 69 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info Ofﬁce: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

E FRE

Edition 400

Issue 139

Ph: 4325 7369

Documents obtained under Freedom of Information reveal damning evidence of neglect

Peninsula becoming ‘granny flat capital’, says Chamber

e Frkeeone!

FREE E FRE

Edition 399

Issue 138

Ph: 4325 7369

Dutton’s Tavern redevelopment update

council election needs to be held on the Central Coast before the September 2017 date currently put forward by the NSW Government, according to the state’s shadow minister for local government, Mr Peter Primrose.

The Bullion St car park

THIS ISSUE contains 69 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info

www.centralcoastnews.net

Your independent local newspaper

25 July 2016

Commercial fisher apprehended with illegal catch

NSW Department of Primary Industries Fisheries acting compliance director, Mr Tony Andrews, said the Central Coast team was joined by Statewide Operations and Investigations Group officers in June in an operation to crack down on compliance within the “estuary general fishery” off Patonga. “The 36-year-old commercial fisherman was found in possession of 44 live Eastern Rock Lobsters and 12 prohibited size mulloway,” Mr Andrews said. “He also admitted to oversetting his meshing nets, which is a separate offence as Estuary General Fishers are prohibited from retaining Eastern Rock Lobster caught in meshing nets,” he said. “This fisherman has breached five regulations of the Act, including possessing illegally taken fish and

e Frkeeone!

FREE

News Phone 4325 7369 Fax 4321 0940

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

READ & SHARE WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

August 16, 2016

Your independent community newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369

Issue 98

Wallarah 2 seen as a threat on many levels ember for W y o n g and NSW Shadow Minister for the Central Coast, Mr David Harris, will speak at a Water Not Coal meeting to be held at the Blue Haven Community Centre on August 18, following his call for the NSW Government to buy back the Wallarah 2 exploration licence.

The latest proposal from South Korean mining company KORES could see a coal conveyor belt, rail spur, and coal stock pile, located within 200 metres of Blue Haven homes. A nine-storey coal loader would also be visible from Blue Haven and would come within 300 metres of houses in the new residential suburb to be developed by the Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council. The amended development application and Environmental Impact Statement are currently on public exhibition. Mr Harris said he called on the NSW Baird Government to buy back the Wallarah 2 exploration licence after the government conﬁrmed they would pay BHP $220 million to buy back their mining licence for the proposed Caroona mine in the Liverpool plains. “The Baird /O’Farrell government promised to stop Wallarah 2 in 2011 as an election commitment,” Mr Harris said. “The proposed Wallarah 2 project would be beneath our water

An underground shearer that grinds coal from the seam, dumps it on a conveyor and lets the roof of the mine fall down behind it that could cause subsidence and damage to the water aquifer

catchment, a catchment that supplies water to 320,000 people,” he said. He said KORES, the Korean Government owned mining company that holds the mining exploration licence, is reportedly suffering ﬁnancial issues, raising more doubts about the viability of the proposed project. “The Wallarah 2 mine proposal has been a major election issue since 2011 at both a state and Federal level. “It featured heavily most recently in the 2016 Federal election, when Labor won the seat of Dobell on a platform opposing the mine. “Mike Baird was the Shadow Treasurer in 2011, and must have supported the infamous Liberal ‘No ifs, no buts, a guarantee’ election

promise. “If the Baird government can … use taxpayers’ money in Caroona, then we have every right to expect the same here, particularly given their previous election promises. “To continue to ignore their solemn commitment is nothing more than political bastardry.” An earlier Australian Coal Alliance meeting was held at Wyong RSL on August 10 to update the community about the latest attempts by KORES to have the Wallarah 2 underground coal mine approved by the NSW Planning Assessment Commission as a State Signiﬁcant Development. The meeting was attended by around 180 locals who came from as far aﬁeld as The Entrance and Terrigal.

Spokesperson for The Greens Central Coast, Ms Kate da Costa, who attended the meeting, said: “The proposal is that the conveyor belt and stock pile will be operating 24 hours and seven days a week for 30 years, so freight trains will be loading coal from an un-covered conveyor belt around the clock.” According to Ms da Costa, the only part of the development application that KORES has changed is the mechanism for getting the coal from the mine to the train. She said the NSW Government’s requirement for the Planning Assessment Commission to “prioritise economic outcomes” when assessing developments, meant the mine’s approval was still a possibility.

“But the commission even found KORES’ economic argument for the mine overblown and not particularly compelling,” she said. The clincher, for Ms da Costa, was that KORES’ own Environmental Impact Statement conceded that a coal mine in such a populated area “could increase mortality by one in 100,000 people per year. “There are over 300,000 people living on the Central Coast so that is three deaths per year,” she said. According to Ms da Costa, community members at the August 10 meeting expressed a sense of frustration that they had been ﬁghting the Wallarah 2 coal mine for 11 years. “This is an important ﬁght to win, and the Blue

Haven meeting is an important step, because I am sure that there are many people in Blue Haven and other nearby areas that do not know this thing is going to be on their doorstep,” she said. The Australian Coal Alliance has also raised concerns about mine subsidence, air extraction from the proposed mine and that approval of the project could allow dumping of water into local lakes and/or the ocean. “The best analogy I can come up with is that it would be the same as allowing an underground coal mine in the Sydney Hills District with a coal loader in the middle of Castle Hill,” said the Australian Coal Alliance’s Water Not Coal Campaign Director, Mr Alan Hayes. “When you talk about coal dust, you are talking about ﬁne micro particles (micron) that can’t be seen by the naked eye but are carried many kilometres by the wind and will get into your lungs and cause all sorts of respiratory problems,” Mr Hayes said. “The NSW Government wants the whole northern area of the Central Coast zoned for housing, but if you had a young family, would you go to coal mine central to raise your children?” he said. Media release, Aug 12, 2016 Zachary Harrison, ofﬁce of David Harris Interview, Aug 12, 2016 Kate da Costa, Central Coast Greens Interview, Aug 12, 2016 Alan Hayes, Australian Coal Alliance 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

22 August 2016

A survey of fuel prices has shown Peninsula prices are comparable with the rest of the Coast. Prices collected by Mr Rod Munson of Ettalong have provided a comparison of Peninsula priceswith the lowest prices available on the Coast and in Newcastle and Sydney. The most expensive fuel on the Central Coast was found in Woy Woy at Shell and BP with E10 costing 119.9 cents per litre, 16 cents more per litre than Woolworths Umina. Woolworths Umina and Caltex in Blackwall did have some of the

Prices gathered by Rod Munson on August 13 at midday and from comparethemarket and NRMA on August 15

cheapest E10 prices on the Central Coast in the 104.9 cents per litre or less. Only six petrol stations across the Central Coast had E10 petrol at less than 104.9 cents per litre. Caltex Foresters Beach, Caltex Star Mart Long Jetty, 7 Eleven The Entrance and BP Tumbi Umbi also had E10 prices at 104.9 cents per litre and under. For all fuel types, Caltex Blackwall had the best average prices on the Peninsula. Caltex appeared to offer the best priced fuel anywhere on the Central Coast. Mr Munson conducted his price checks on August 13 at around midday. The cheapest E10 fuel was located at Woolworths Umina, priced at 103.9 per litre. The cheapest regular unleaded was an eight- minute drive away at United in Empire Bay priced at 110.7 per litre. Since the survey was undertaken, the price at Woolworths Umina dropped to 99.8 cents last Friday. The cheapest diesel on the Peninsula was at Caltex Woy Woy and Blackwall at 116.9 per litre. However, Empire Bay’s regular unleaded is seven cents cheaper than any of its competition. Peninsula drivers appear to be paying the highest fuel prices on the Central Coast but the whole Coast is still paying more than its northern or southern city neighbours. Newcastle and The Hunter, for example, had over 20 fuel options at under 103.9 a litre. Newcastle residents, by comparison, have the potential to ﬁll up at under 98.9 per litre for E10 at some stations, with the maximum price compared to the Central Coast six cents cheaper at 113.9 cents per litre. As of August 15, Sydney had the cheapest fuel prices in NSW according to the NRMA with Newcastle coming in at ﬁfth. The Central Coast was ranked 10th, up six places since August, 7. Email, 15 Aug 2016 Rod Munson, Ettalong Websites, 18 Aug 2016 Comparethemarket.com.au Nrma.com.au Reporter: Cole Newman

August 25, 2016

Your independent local newspaper

Issue 140

Ph: 4325 7369

Gosford City is facing a parking crisis with no plan in place

Peninsula fuel prices comparable with Coast

osford City is facing a parking crisis, with uncertainty, confusion and c o n g e s t i o n surrounding the city’s major car parks.

Residents of Empire Bay gathered to discuss key infrastructure issues

Residents gather for action on roads More than 70 residents from Empire Bay and Bensville attended the inaugural meeting of the Empire Bay and Districts Roads Action Group to participate in a Future Directions Workshop on August 2. The workshop discussed the major issues residents wanted addressed by governments. A Residents’ Committee was formed to work on a document to present to Member for Terrigal, Mr Adam Crouch, at the bi-monthly Empire Bay Progress Association meeting. “All of the views expressed at the meeting will be included in the report under main headings. “Long term residents explained that, over the last decade or so, they had been frustrated by Council not doing work to remediate the terrible condition of the roads and stormwater drainage or to invest in pedestrian safety improvements such as pathways, even though studies had been made and money allocated to do much of the work,” Mr Olsen said. “During the meeting we split into

small groups to discuss the main areas of concern and each group was invited to report to the whole assembly. “Very soon three main issues appeared namely, the non-existent drainage, poor and dangerous condition of our roads neglected over many years and the need for safe pedestrian access to the Empire Bay Public School via Greenﬁeld Rd.” Mr Olsen said, as the meeting progressed the general mood became one of hope. “Residents came away from the meeting with the understanding that we need to be a strong and committed community, determined to get the change we want,” he said. According to Mr Olsen, the group agreed that their vision was for a wider coalition of the geographically-linked communities of Empire Bay, Bensville, Daleys Point and South Kincumber and that each locale needs to put before Council their speciﬁc needs and be supported by the other areas. “We see ourselves in cooperation not competition for the resources required to improve the

amenity of our district, going into bat for each other when the need arises,” Mr Olsen said. The Empire Bay Progress Association is having its bimonthly meeting on August 16, at the Empire Bay Progress Hall from 7:30pm. Mr Crouch, will be attending. “The ﬁrst meeting highlighted that we really need to have a member of Council attend the bimeeting because the matters that need addressing require the cooperation of both State and Local Government,” Mr Olsen added. Mr Olsen also said the Action Group would be requesting the attendance of a Council representative at the bi-monthly meeting. “A document outlining the residents’ concerns will be presented to Mr Crouch and we expect action for these matters,” Mr Olsen said. According to Mr Olsen, many of the issues raised by residents had been known to Council for decades without appropriate responses. Interview, 2 Aug 2016 Gregory Olsen, Empire Bay and Districts Roads Action Group Reporter: Dilon Luke

With the fate of the 400 free car parks atop Kibbleplex (formerly Marketplace) unclear, commuters already fed up with Gosford’s parking situation are concerned about the city’s lack of dedicated free parking. The potential loss of the free Kibbleplex parking is not the end of Gosford’s parking woes, with commuters questioning the safety and useability of the Baker St car park, and outright dismissal of the free commuter parking opposite Gosford Train Station, which is nonexistent after 6am. To make matters worse, with the controversial ATO building poised to begin construction on the waterfront, the political promise of 600 jobs may prove disastrous for commuters when an army of temporary workers and the building’s permanent staff descend on the city’s highly sought after parking spaces. The ATO, which has already soured residents who believed the former Gosford School site was better suited to a Performing Arts Precinct, was revealed to have a shortfall of onsite parking for future employees. In June, the Joint Regional Planning Panel found that the ATO’s developer, Doma, would need to add 13 extra parking spaces for the public in Baker St. Despite the JRPP’s ﬁndings, it is unclear whether this will be enough to accommodate the dramatic increase in activity and trafﬁc to and around the site, and according to former Gosford Councillor, Ms Vicki Scott, the ATO is

The commuter car park opposite Gosford train station

not the only development in the city that has the potential to tip the parking issue over the edge. Ms Scott said the CBD and the immediate surrounding areas of West Gosford, North Gosford, East Gosford and Point Frederick, are deﬁnitely facing a parking shortfall, and that residential developments approved, despite not providing adequate parking allocation, were to blame. “Parking issues are more than just availability of commuter parking. “Many of the residential developments that have been approved in the CBD and immediate surrounds are for two or three bedroom units, but the parking allocation has only been one per unit, not one spot per bedroom. “So if a three-bedroom unit becomes share housing, one resident will have a car park within the development but where will the other two residents park?

“They will be looking for spots on the street,” Ms Scott said. Ms Scott also said that the problem is already evident in areas like Point Frederick and East Gosford, where ﬂat buildings have come online and street parking is still an issue. “Although the former Gosford Council discussed and intended to come up with a CBD parking strategy, I have checked and there isn’t one. “There is nothing in place. “What will happen when all the big developments come online and what will happen to parking if they all start at the same time? “Where will the parking be?” Ms Scott questioned. According to Ms Scott, during discussions with the former Gosford Council, she brought up issues of trafﬁc and parking management multiple times, including: “The acceptance of a number of large developments in the CBD without having adequate

parking for residents of those developments and others; cramped parking around developments in Point Frederick (Lynn Ave) and other sites in North and West Gosford; the lack of common sense in agreeing to allow developments of two and three bedroom apartment buildings to be constructed with only one car space per unit at best (Ms Scott said there was an expectation that people will walk or take the bus to the station); the narrow streets in some of these areas and the existing parking problem; and, consideration for the huge impact when the new developments are completed. “I had suggested we should do a trafﬁc management study for the area with these concerns in mind, but there appeared to be minimal interest in my concerns,” Ms Scott added. On the concerns surrounding Baker St car park, Ms Scott said the former council had

endeavoured to add more ﬂoors onto the car park but said there were issues with the building being able to support extra ﬂoors and that she was unsure as to whether or not any further action surrounding Baker St car park occurred after the initial idea tanked. However, Ms Scott said she could understand commuter concerns over the safety of using Baker St car park, especially after hours. Ms Scott also said that aside from the future of Kibbleplex, no other discussion took place amongst the former Gosford Council in regards to parking in the CBD and that despite her own questions about the future of parking in Gosford City, there has been no satisfactory response. The issue is further complicated by the interrelation of parking as a social issue and a State Government responsibility. “There is an element of responsibility for the State

Government in this. “Rail transport, as a form of commuter travel, is the responsibility of the State Government and there is some expectation that that government takes an active interest in the problem. “However, socially, it is seen as a Local Government matter, and the public expects Local Government to play a part in it as well. “To my knowledge, there were no plans or strategies discussed between the last council and the State Government to address the issues of commuter parking,” Ms Scott said. “I hope the current council takes these concerns and acts on them before any more development is approved. “The city CBD and the surrounding suburbs is a small area. “The CBD has three streets taking the trafﬁc through it. “These streets are cramped between a mountain and the water. “There is no apparent way to solve the problem, and increased parking demand is just exacerbating it. “The fact that the DA for the ATO was allowed without sufﬁcient parking is also going to exacerbate the problem,” Ms Scott continued. “I don’t know what the council can do about this, but it certainly seems that the Federal and State Governments are failing in their responsibilities in this matter. “I think, if the commuter car parking at Kibbleplex is stopped without a solution from the State and the council, and the ATO and other developments are actually built, car parking in the CBD, including commuter car parking, will be a disastrous problem that will take far too long to solve, if ever,” Ms Scott concluded. Continued Page 8

THIS ISSUE contains 71 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info Ofﬁce: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

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

READ & SHARE WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

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

www.gosfordnews.org

NEWS

Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 - Page 3 Coas SShare

DOMA and Council summonsed over JRPP approval of ATO

Senator calls for Royal Commission into the banks

enator Deborah Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neill has joined what she has called a â&#x20AC;&#x153;groundswell of Parliamentary colleaguesâ&#x20AC;? in calling for a Royal Commission into the banks, after research by the Parliamentary Library found there was a 60 per cent increase in complaints to the financial ombudsman service over the past seven years. The Parliamentary research undertaken by Labor, found that in 20089, there were 19,107 complaints to the Financial Ombudsman Service, but by 2014-15, this had risen to 31,895, a 60 per cent increase. The study also found a 145 per cent increase in complaints about credit cards. Sen Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neill said she was disappointed, but not surprised, by the statistics revealed in the Labor Party commissioned report. Sen Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neill has been chair and deputy chair of the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Corporations and Financial Services (PJCC&FS) since 2012. In that time, the committee has been presented with a string of evidence of unethical behaviour within the banking and financial services sector, notably Trio Capital and Storm Financial. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Labor senators tabled a dissenting report following

the committeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recent inquiry into the impairment of loans,â&#x20AC;? Sen Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neill said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;At the start of May 2016, in that dissenting report, Labor formally recommended a Royal Commission into the banks,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We believe only a Royal Commission will be able to adequately investigate the scourge of unethical behaviour and toxic culture reported as existing in our banking and financial sector. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everybody knows someone who has had an unacceptable experience with a bank or financial institution. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time for the power and capacity of a Royal Commission to get to the bottom of this rising tide of complaints about Australianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interactions with their banks,â&#x20AC;? she said. Media release, Aug 23, 2016 Rhys Zorro, office of Deborah Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neill

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au/news

Barrister, Mr Matthew Fraser and Claire Braund, President of the Gosford Waterfront Alliance will challenge the Doma development

he Gosford Waterfront Alliance Inc (GWA) has formally lodged a challenge in the NSW Land and Environment Court to the development consent for Doma to build an Australian Taxation Office (ATO) on the former Gosford Public School Site.

A summons was to be served on the two respondents, TO Gosford Pty Ltd (owned by developer Doma group) and Central Coast Council. The GWA is challenging the Joint Regional Planning Panel (JRPP) decision to grant conditional consent to the building of the ATO. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We feel that the JRPPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s decision is manifestly incorrect and therefore invalid,â&#x20AC;? said Ms Claire Braund, President of the

Gosford Waterfront Alliance. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Planning in Gosford over the years has been inconsistent and messy, and that is why we currently have such an unattractive city. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The ATO development, if it goes ahead as slated, would be a return to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the Erina Strategyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; that gutted the CBD of business and life,â&#x20AC;? she said. Barrister assisting the alliance, Mr Matthew Fraser, has helped

articulate and identify the multiple point challenge to the development, including: significant under construction of car parking; failure to meet the zoning objectives; general underutilisation and activation of the site; a lack of design excellence; and a failure to address concerns relating to the historical School of Arts building on the site. An extract from the Summons papers states: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The exercise of the planning

discretion by the JRPP in considering Part 8 Gosford Local Environmental Plan, was so devoid of plausible justification, and so irrational, that no reasonable person could have granted planning consent, such that the exercise of the planning discretion miscarried and/ or amounted to an abuse of powerâ&#x20AC;?. The first hearing of the challenge has been set to be on September 16. Media release, Aug 17, 2016 Claire Braund, Gosford Waterfront Alliance

YEEESSSSS! Say â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;yesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to Optus at Imperial Centre

171 Mann Street, Gosford | 4324 4299 | www.imperialcentre.com.au |

/imperialcentregosfordcbd |

@imperialcentregosford

NEWS

Page 4 - Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 Share

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au/news

New council Community License Agreement res he first community organisation to be offered a new council Community Licence Agreement, Saratoga and District Sport and Recreation A s s o c i a t i o n , has labelled the document completely out of touch with the realities of managing and maintaining a community facility.

The Community Licence Agreements were introduced by the former Gosford Council and only apply to facilities in the former Gosford local government area. Approximately 34 buildings with leases that expired before or since May 2015 have been required to enter the new licences. Almost one year ago, the former Gosford Council presented Saratoga and District Sport and Recreation Association (SDSRA) with a Community Licence Agreement for the management of the community-owned tennis courts at Saratoga.

“Council’s use of the word ‘community’ in the title of the licence agreements is a misnomer,” said association spokesperson, Mr Alan Skinner. “When concocting the licence agreements, the former council had obviously lost sight of the fact that a council’s primary function is to service the community that pays its way,” Mr Skinner said. “The licence agreement presented to SDSRA completely overlooked the fact that the construction of the Saratoga tennis courts had been substantially funded by SDSRA some 35 years earlier, and that the tennis courts had been managed, maintained and improved over the years as a community facility by that non-profit community group, without financial assistance from council or any other source, solely for the benefit of the local community,” he said. “Gosford Council was, instead, obviously intent on having all the communityoperated facilities under its control managed as part of its so-called business.”

According to Mr Skinner, council demanded that it received more than 50 per cent of turnover from the running of the facility. He said he would contend that the former Gosford Council did not support tennis “full stop”. “Even though Gosford Council willingly managed and maintained the playing surfaces, the cricket pitches, the goal posts and the floodlighting at many other sporting facilities under its control, and then charged participants token fees for the use of those facilities, for whatever reason, the community-owned tennis centres under council’s control have long been left to fend for themselves. The Saratoga association took the same stance as the Macmasters Beach and District Progress Association when it was asked to sign a similar agreement if it wished to continue managing its community hall, and refused to sign the agreement. “After 35 years, the association had little choice other than to walk away from the tennis courts, which

have remained completely abandoned since October 2015 under council’s direct control,” Mr Skinner said. He said he believed it was clear that the new Central Coast Council, by adopting Gosford Council’s Community Licence Agreements, showed “exactly the same contempt for the many volunteers that are putting in valuable time and effort to help manage and maintain council’s assets for the benefit of the community. “The new council obviously intends to equally distance itself from the management and maintenance of those assets supposedly under its care,” Mr Skinner said. “The so-called community licences increase the costs of operating the community facilities and do nothing to alleviate the responsibility on the shoulders of those voluntarily managing and maintaining a communityowned asset on council’s behalf,” he said. “The tennis courts at Saratoga would have been

impossible to manage and maintain efficiently under the proposed agreement unless court hire charges were increased substantially to an unsustainable fee.” Costs that would have had to have been met under the agreement included: the annual cost of the licence and associated legal fees; payment in advance for any assistance by council staff; costs related to the increased responsibilities and the safety issues; and, council’s claimed 50 per cent share of the takings. “SDSRA was also required to indemnify council against any claims for damages, loss, injury or death which might occur in or around the facility, which happens to be located within a public reserve,” Mr Skinner said. “As a voluntary group that had managed and maintained the communityowned asset at very little cost to the community for the preceding 35 years, the personal risks to volunteers of assuming responsibility for the management of the community-owned and community-used asset were

already too high,” he said. “SDSRA has neither the expertise nor the finances to adequately assess all of the safety risks associated with the management and maintenance of a community-owned tennis centre. “Surely that is one reason why we all, as ratepayers, elect councillors to employ qualified staff, for professional advice and assistance, not to adopt a pompous position of authority and then proceed to relieve themselves of all the responsibility that warranted their employment. “At the moment, Council’s behaviour is very much a case of the tail wagging the dog. “For the continuing use of small-scale community operations such as the tennis courts at Saratoga and the Macmasters Beach Community hall, it is imperative that Central Coast Council revert to assuming full responsibility for the safety aspects of those assets and retreat from the present small-minded,

CHOOSE THE LOCAL EXPERTS AT

ADD $175 TO MOTOR YOUR ROLLER BLINDS Easy to operate, Easy to add the WOW FACTOR. Was $350, now $175 to motorise your roller blinds with Premier Shades On newly purchased blinds only

• Huge range of fabric styles and colours. • Competitively priced and locally made. • Latest lithium battery technology first time available on the Coast. • No electrician needed. • Comes with recharger and remote control. • Ideal for people with mobility issues. • Ideal for windows that are hard to reach. • Ideal for houses with lots of windows. • Add value with the latest technology.

BIGGEST ON THE COAST! 18/482 Pacific Highway, Wyoming. Ph : 02 4324 8800.

www.premiershades.com.au

SShare

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au/news

NEWS

ults in Saratoga tennis courts being abandoned money-grabbing, supposedly businesslike approach of its senior officers.” Mr Skinner said he called on Mr Rob Noble, Central Coast Council’s chief executive officer to review “not only council’s inherited policies but, more importantly, the capabilities and the attitudes of its adopted staff”. When the new leasing policy was announced by the former Gosford Council in May 2015, the CEO, Mr Paul Anderson, said it would improve the use, availability and long-term sustainability of many of Gosford City’s sport, recreational and other community facilities under the Community Leasing Policy. Mr Anderson said the new policy provided a modern and consistent approach to leasing councilowned facilities. “We’ve revamped our previous policy to make sure the use of community buildings is fairer, equitable and transparent,” Mr Anderson said. “Importantly, there will be less exclusive use of buildings, which means that

An aerial view of the abandoned Saratoga Tennis facility

over time, more and more community facilities will become available for use by other community groups and residents. “Plus, the new leasing policy sets out a consistent process for granting and renewing leases for our facilities across the whole city. “It delivers greater clarity by identifying the roles and responsibilities for both council and the lessees. “At the end of the

day, we want to support all community groups in Gosford City as much as possible and give everyone the chance to benefit from our community assets,” he said. “There is a lot of demand for our community facilities and buildings,” Mr Anderson added. “Our new policy will ensure everyone acknowledges that community assets are for all to benefit from and that any

leases need to deliver these benefits,” he said. The new policy was discussed and developed at a Gosford Council Strategy and Policy Workshop held in March 2015 and endorsed by council at a subsequent meeting in April. “Currently there are many examples of unsatisfactory use of community assets,” a report back to council from the strategy and policy workshop said. “The underlying

concept is that Council and community tenants are firstly responsible to the community as a whole, over and above any special terms a single community tenant receives,” the report said. “Community leases should set clear responsibilities and obligations on all parties to ensure the assets used and the lease terms set, deliver optimal community benefit.” According to the report,

the policy was intended to encourage more intensive asset use, by: targeting multiple community uses in many assets and rewarding the participants with lower overall costs; embed the principle that community assets are for all; provide accountability and guidelines, so councillors and council officers can manage community facilities consistently, and avoid risks of perceived impropriety; maximise council’s control of community assets without compromising its key function of providing subsidised accommodation to deserving community users; and, prevent the community suffering major annual financial losses on community assets. The report back to council also stated the policy was not intended to: maximise rent through moving community rents towards market levels; use competition to maximise income from community assets and tenants; and, impose new costs on community tenants Continued Page 6

SUNDAY - 8.00am till 1.00pm

Feast your eyes over these producers: Garden Fresh, Vegitali Pty Ltd, La Tartine, Over the Moon Milk, Egganic, Soda Bread

Bakery, Lincoln Red Beef, The Banana Bread Man, Hawkesbury Fresh Produce, Delightfully Fresh Organics, Tar 10, Bills

VENUE: The Entertainment Grounds (Gosford Racecourse) WHEN: Every Sunday TIME:

8.00am till 1.00pm

NO DOGS

Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 - Page 5 Coas

Rain, Hail or Shine

Enquiries: finefoodmarket@bigpond.com

Mob: 0427 630 144

FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/ Gosfordcityfarmersmarket

Organic Bakery, Pattie Moi Designs, Little Creek Cheeses, Pokolbin Olives, Maxima Coffee, Wotton Valley Beef, Wattle Creek

Preserves, Jacques Kitchen, Larry’s Free Range Eggs, Peats Rigde Produce, The Apple Man, Meltic Beef plus many others.

Gosford City Farmers’ Market will feature a wide range of fresh vegetables, fruits, primary produce including gourmet jams and preserves, olive oil products, pestos, macadamia nuts and fresh home made products. The market will include other food related items as well as high quality “foodto-eat” vendors. Flowers, plants and trees will also be available for sale. Additionally the market will also feature hand-made products other than food such as artists, designers and other quality artifacts.

The market will operate each Sunday from 8.00am till 1.00pm Rain, Hail or Shine.

Gosford City Farmers’ Market Gosford Racecourse, 4 Racecourse Rd, Gosford West

NEWS

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au/news

New council Community License Agreement results in Saratoga tennis courts being abandoned

rom Page 5

Page 6 - Coast Community News - August 25, 2016

– apart from their own basic operating and usage costs such as water, gas, electricity, rubbish and similar. “Despite receiving generous terms, numerous community tenants flatly refuse to share with other community users, or require generous payments. “This is not in the greater community’s interest and means council cannot assist many deserving users. “Greater utilisation is the simplest and cheapest answer, but current leases provide exclusive occupancy rights. “Long term control of numerous community properties has been lost, through very long leases (up to 25 years) being granted. “Shorter leases increase the control council has over its portfolio, allowing it to deliver major property outcomes for community benefit, when needed. “Lease renewals also protect Council from ongoing legislation changes. “Council should be able to relocate subsidised tenants, to similar

community buildings, when needed, at council’s cost. “Moving tenants when necessary could allow major community projects to be delivered on existing council land, as needed. “Macro portfolio decisions can occur, without key areas being inaccessible, due to long leases in place. “Long leases, poor cost recovery and passive management, has contributed to a concept of ‘full ownership rights’ for some community users. “Council rights are often disregarded and clear examples exist of illegal or unapproved activities in community buildings. “For many leases the community suffers a financial loss, because basic user charges are not met. “This is conservatively estimated at $350,000 per annum across the portfolio. “In many cases, not only are rents subsidised, but many tenants are not responsible (or refuse to pay) their own utility charges. “These requirements must be strengthened. “Council’s Property

Group will increase the pro-activity of its overall lease management, and frequency of property inspections, to ensure lease obligations are honoured. “Major ‘profiteering’ from subleasing and other deals occur. “Unapproved single bookings for social functions across halls and other buildings regularly deliver more than council’s entire annual rent to the tenant involved. “Income generated from community assets, if approved by Council, should be fully disclosed to council and shared with the wider community, for disclosure, probity and fairness. “Standard community leases will reduce costs and management issues and create consistency across asset use, for all tenants. “Council will seek to direct sublet space arising in community assets, to other community tenants under separate licences, wherever possible. “Where not possible, then for all revenue raising opportunities, council will receive 50 per cent of the revenue.”

However, the report delivered to Gosford Council in May 2015 argued that the new licence agreements were not a revenue raising exercise. “In the next few years this sum will be minimal as existing leases remain in place for most tenants. Thirty four leases had expired by the end of 2015 and a further five were due for renewal in 2016. Between 2016 and 2020 another 35 community leases will be renegotiated and all 70 would be renewed by 2047. “Based on current known subleases and revenue initiatives, annual income to council would be expected to increase by circa $250,000 per annum within the next 5-8 years and probably grow annually thereafter. “It is recommended that future revenue raised from Council’s share of sublease income and tenant revenue activities, is split equally between maintenance of council’s community buildings and a fund to assist community tenants with genuine financial needs, regarding their

existing council tenancy, or general operations,” the report to Gosford Council said. Surf clubs were excluded because they have been part of a state-wide review of issues between local governments, surf clubs and crown land, the report said. “A new lease structure may see sublease income, commercial activity and other revenue revert to a managing trust entity, which distributes proceeds according to fixed guidelines. “The pure community functions of the clubs may continue to receive concessional rents, though some minor details remain to be finalised. According to the Saratoga and District Sport and Recreation Association, the licence agreement they were offered by council would have required an estimated minimum court hire fee at Saratoga of $30 to $35 per hour to cover the costs of council’s conditions. “While a court hire fee in that range might be realistic in a business sense, it was

clearly an unsustainable figure for a community facility that was originally intended to encourage participation in sport by all members of the community, regardless of their age or financial status,” Mr Skinner said. “Council had already demonstrated an unwillingness to consult and SDSRA had no option other than to completely reject council’s unworkable licence agreement, which meant walking away from the tennis courts,” he said. According to Mr Skinner, negotiations are still under way between the Gosford District Tennis Association and council to allow the association to take over management of the Saratoga facility under its own terms and not subject to a community licence agreement. Email, Aug 9, 2016 Alan Skinner, Saratoga and District Sport and Recreation Association Media release, May 26, 2015 Gosford Council media Agenda item SF3, April 28, 2016 Gosford Council ordinary meeting

CRYSTAL FESTIVALS AUSTRALIA Presents

With over 30 years experience, let us achieve a quality job at an affordable price for you.

Custom Made • • • • • • •

Curtains Pelmets Roller Blinds Roman Blinds Venetian Blinds Vertical Blinds Rods and Tracking

Book a Free Measure & Quote Today

02 4339 9422

2nd Annual CENTRAL COAST CRYSTAL FESTIVAL 3rd & 4th September Gosford Showground

CRYSTAL EXHIBITION & SALE

• Crystal • Gems • Jewellery • Fossils • Rocks • Minerals Australian Geology and lots more.... Adults $5.00 Conc. $3.00 Under 12 free Saturday 9:00-5:00pm Sunday 9:00-4:00pm Crystal Festivals Australia

crystalfestivalsaustralia@gmail.com Local Central Coast Business

www.mrcurtainsandblinds.com.au

Phone: 0405904881

Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 - Page 7

Now Open FOR LOVERS OF WINE

PINOCCHIOS WINE & PIZZA HAS NOW OPENED AT WILLIAM ST, GOSFORD - OPPOSITE KIBBLE PARK www.pinocchioswinebar.com.au â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 02 4346 4721

171 Mann Street, Gosford | (02) 4324 4299 | www.imperialcentre.com.au |

/imperialcentregosfordcbd |

@imperialcentregosford

NEWS

Page 8 - Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 Share

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au/news

All community facilities to come under new community licence agreements new policy will be put in place to manage all Central Coast Council community facilities, but there is no timeframe for that policy’s development or implementation at this stage.

Meanwhile, the 70 venues listed as Gosford City community facilities and venues for hire, will be progressively subject to the former Gosford Council’s new community licence agreements as their current leases expire. Several associations that have managed such facilities for long periods, in Saratoga, Macmasters Beach and Point Clare, have either walked away or been replaced as council tenants. To date, according to information provided by council, 34 leases have already been replaced with the new licencing agreements, with a further five to reach that point in 2016. Another 11 community assets will become subject to the new rules when their current arrangements expire in 2017, one in 2018, two in 2019 and 21 in 2020.

Looking even further into the future, another 35 leases would be due for renegotiation between 2026 and 2047. The list of venues included in those figures consists of: East Gosford Progress Hall; Gosford Greyhound Track and Showground; the Gosford 50+ Leisure and Learning Centre in Albany St; Lions’ Community Hall in Russel Drysdale St, East Gosford; the Erina Centre at Erina Fair; Erina Trust Community Hall; Green Point Community Centre; Matcham Public Hall; CWA Hall Terrigal, MacMasters Beach and District Progress Hall; Terrigal 50+ Leisure and Learning Centre; Wamberal Memorial Hall; Davistown Progress Hall; Empire Bay Progress Hall; Kincumba Mountain Kiosk and Reserve; Kincumber Neighbourhood Centre; Kincumber School of Arts;

Saratoga Community Hall; Kariong Neighbourhood Centre; Kariong Progress Hall; Mangrove Mountain Public Hall; Somersby School of Arts Hall; The Arts Barn at Kariong; Spencer Community Hall; Point Clare Community Hall; Narara Community Centre; and, Wyoming Community Centre. The entire list of venues for hire includes 34 halls and community centres. Central Coast Council believes that it owns all of these community facilities which will come as a surprise to many of the current caretaker groups. Details relating to each lease are commercial in confidence, according to Central Coast Council. Email, Aug 23, 2016 Central Coast Council media

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

Gosford City is facing a parking crisis with no plan in place From Page 1 Ms Scott said she would be raising the parking issue at council’s next Community Subcommittee Meeting, and that she thought a roundtable addressing the problem needed to happen between all three levels of government. Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter and Central Coast, Mr Scot MacDonald MLC, said he had spoken with the former Gosford Council and the new Central Coast Council on at least two occasions this year and that the new Council is supposedly preparing to undertake a parking review. “The NSW Government has heard the community’s concern over the lack of parking in Gosford. “We believe parking needs a long-term plan and resourcing, rather than a few quick fixes,” Mr MacDonald said. “When the review is completed, the State Government will be very keen to sit down with

Council, the community and any other stakeholders to see what role the State Government can play. “State Government agencies that could be included are Transport for NSW, NSW Rail, Health and Department of Premier and Cabinet. “Then we can put an evidence based, considered proposal to the Government,” Mr MacDonald continued. “The Baird Government also believes it is important to stimulate as many jobs as possible in the Gosford region so that people don’t have to commute. “This is why we are working with the Turnbull Government to bring nearly 1,000 Federal Treasury and State Finance positions to the old Gosford School site,” Mr MacDonald concluded. According to Mr MacDonald, the NSW Government has already taken action to increase parking in Gosford when it had 30 staff car parks converted into commuter

car parks at Gosford Station, and added the 87 space car park on the corner of Faunce St and Mann St in 2015. Despite the State’s previous efforts to alleviate the issue, parking shortfalls remain in and around Gosford. Central Coast Council did not respond to questions about the state of Gosford’s parking situation. Council also did not respond to questions surrounding Baker St car park including: Why commuters have reported seeing security guards patrolling the ground floor, whether or not Council sublet level(s) of the car park to WorkCover and whether council had considered making some or all of the Baker St car park free. Interview, Aug 22, 2016 Vicki Scott, former Gosford Councillor Dilon Luke, journalist Interview, Aug 22, 2016 Scot MacDonald, Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter and Central Coast

WE’VE BEEN CARING FOR LOCALS FOR OVER 40 YEARS Experience award winning retirement living and aged care at Peninsula Villages

Congratu lati Peninsula ons New on your 4 th s 00 edition!

02 4344 9199 I peninsulavillage.com.au I Peninsula Village I Cooinda Village I Ambleside Village

Sponsored by

WE NEED A ROYAL COMMISSION INTO THE BANKS ³7KH\¶YH SXW SUR¿WV DQG H[HFXWLYH ERQXVHV DKHDG RI WKH LQWHUHVWV RI WKHLU FXVWRPHUV«´ Ross Gittins – Sydney Morning Herald, Apri

l 2016

For far too long banks have not been held accountable for their treatment of customers, with unfair fees and interest rate rips-offs, while reporting record proﬁts. Only Labor will establish a Royal Commission into banks that rip you off. www.alp.org.au/banksroyalcommission Sign our petition to demand a Royal Commission into the banks NAME:

MOBILE:

EMAIL:

NAME:

SIGNATURE:

MOBILE:

EMAIL:

NAME:

SUBURB:

SIGNATURE:

MOBILE:

EMAIL:

SUBURB:

SIGNATURE:

Senator Deborah O’Neill Post to: PO Box 3627, Fountain Plaza, NSW, 2250 Email to: senator.o’neill@aph.gov.au

Authorised by Senator Deborah O’Neill, 4 Ilya Avenue, Erina 2250

NEWS

Page 10 - Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 Share

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au/

Merindah Apartment building could be the first to start construction he $72.16 m i l l i o n M e r i n d a h Apartment building, at 21 to 23 Mann St Gosford, is the development we have chosen to profile in this edition of Coast Community News as part of our ongoing series on progress on approved DAs in the Gosford CBD and surrounds.

Marketing for off-theplan sales is about to commence for the 15-storey and 140-unit Merindah Apartment building, making it one of the first large-scale developments to be put to the market in the current Gosford residential property boom. The off-the-plan starting sale price for onebedroom apartments on lower floors of the new complex is $345,000, twobedroom apartments start from $405,000 and threebedrooms are available from $545,000. The highest off-the-plan asking price in the Merindah building is $755,000 for a south-west facing three bedroom apartment on the 15th floor.

An artist’s impression of the Merindah building

Mr Cain King, from CKD Architecture in East Gosford, said he was excited to see the marketing phase for the Merindah development (formerly known as the Pinnacle project) coming on line. The 140 residential units will have “fantastic views to the North, South and West” overlooking the former

If you’re reading this, so could up to 50,000 other people

out to that many people using any other medium? Don’t be fooled by the hype, advertising in this newspaper is by far much better value for money than any other medium. Not only does it have the reach and readership within the area it covers, but readers can keep the advertisement and refer to it as often as they wish.

Gosford Public School site and the Broadwater, Mr King said. Mr Pablo Gutierrez, and Mr Anil Jintoorkar, from George Brand Real Estate, Terrigal, are in charge of marketing the new complex. Mr Gutierrez said, above level seven, apartments facing the Broadwater would have guaranteed unimpeded water views. “They cannot be built out under current zoning for the area,” Mr Gutierrez said. Depending on the success of pre-sales, construction is scheduled to commence in early 2017. The two-year development consent is due to lapse on September 22, 2017. The marketing campaign describes the Merindah building as “an exclusive opportunity in an unprecedented location” and as a “new residential community just minutes from everything you need”. The apartments will offer “generous open plan living spaces, and lightfilled entertaining areas, immaculately finished with luxury fixtures and fittings”. All Merindah apartments will have private courtyards and underground parking. The units will have air

conditioning, stainless steel Smeg appliances, gas cooktops and commercial grade double-glazed external windows. Mr Gutierrez said target buyers for the apartments were investors and that the pricing of units on the lower floors was “quite sharp” to attract first home buyers and investors. “More discerning buyers, owner-occupiers, will come in for the premium apartments on the higher

levels,” he said. Ninety per cent of units are expected to be sold to domestic purchasers, both investors and owneroccupiers, and prices have been set with that market in mind. According to Mr Gutierrez, recent sales indicate that interest for new developments is being driven by Central Coast locals, not Sydney-siders looking for a bargain. “The proof on the ground

For all your kitchenware needs

Call 4325 7369 to see

is the majority of off-theplan purchases are coming from local buyers. “Sydney buyers come up and leave deflated because the prices are not dissimilar to what they can find in the northern areas of Sydney, but locals know and understand the local market and appreciate the lifestyle because they choose to live here,” he said. Mr Gutierrez said the timing of off-the-plan sales for Merindah was “squarely inside” the current property boom in and around the Gosford CBD. Those that are still waiting for cranes in the skies around the city must have their eyes closed, he said. “Fifteen projects are currently being constructed in Gosford already,” he said. “The cranes are being deployed as we speak in North Gosford, in Faunce St, Donnison St, and Point Frederick. “They are all over the place if you look,” he said. Interviews, Aug 24, 2016 Pablo Gutierrez, George Brand Terrigal Cain King, CKD Architectural Services Marketing brochure, Aug 24, 2016 Merindah Apartments Jackie Pearson, journalist

That

Computer Guy

WE FIX COMPUTERS!

how inexpensive it is. Lower Level Imperial Shopping Centre Gosford - 4323 4855

4320 6148

Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 - Page 11 SShare

100th day of operation shows projects completed but nothing new in place ugust 20, marked the 100th day of operation of Central Coast Council.

The Council was formed on May 12, by proclamation from the NSW Government, which officially merged Gosford City and Wyong Shire Councils. Council’s Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, said it was an important milestone for Council and a time to reflect on achievements so far as well as the challenges ahead. “We are making history as we go, creating a Council the community and staff can be proud of,” Mr Reynolds said. “We are ready to tackle the exciting challenges ahead, with a real focus on customer service and engaging with our community. “The start to our new organisation has been very impressive in terms of the efforts our people have invested in delivering great outcomes for our community during this time of immense change,” he added. Council have adopted an

operational plan and budget so essential service delivery can continue. Major projects have been completed, including a regional play space at Narara Valley, as well as new shared pathways at Magenta and The Peninsula. Staff have been recognised in major awards including an Australian Entertainment MO award for Laycock Street Theatre. Council’s CEO, Mr Rob Noble, said with so much happening, it’s important for staff to catch their breath and enjoy a well-deserved pat on the back. “The Executive Team have been getting around to all staff in the past two weeks to touch base, share good news stories, as well as share their ideas and vision of where the Council can go now and in the future,” Mr Noble said. Media release, Aug 19, 2016 Central Coast Council Media

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

NEWS

Long term hall management group unsuccessful in bid to continue n response to an article published on page 12 of Coast Community News on August 11, Central Coast Council advised that they had called for expressions of interest to manage the recentlyupgraded Point Clare Community Hall to ensure that as many groups and organisations as possible were given the chance to use the facility. Prior to renovations, the hall had been run by Point Clare Community Hall Incorporated.

“Council’s understanding is that in 2000, the hall’s managing committee, which had run the hall for a very long period, was required to obtain a Certificate of Incorporation from the NSW Department of Fair Trading, following legislation changes. The Point Clare Community Hall Inc was advised of the requirement to submit an expression of interest to continue running

The recently upgraded exterior of the Point Clare Hall

the hall in March 2016, and the closing date for expressions of interest was June. According to council, the Point Clare group did express interest in continuing to run the hall but was unsuccessful in its bid. Criteria used to assess expressions of interest were: details of the activities and programs that the organisation intended to hold on site (including operating hours); a demonstrated need for the organisation’s activities in the local area or city; the applicant had to demonstrate how the organisation would

function as an integral part of the community; each organisation expressing interest had to provide details of the expected multi-use of the facility, to maximise its use; and, details of the organisation’s long term objectives and its commitment to continuous improvement of the facility. According to the council media statement, each organisation submitting an expression of interest was also required to acknowledge acceptance of licence terms. Licence terms included a short-term lease (no longer than five years) with a

relocation clause that would allow council to relocate the tenant to another building if required, and allowance for the hall to be occupied by more than one tenant. Other conditions present in the new council community licence agreements include restrictions on sub-letting and the requirement to split revenue from any sub-lease with council on a 50:50 basis. Media statement, Aug 10, 2016 Central Coast Council media

New over 50’s lifestyle living in Green Point from $320,000*

Where every day is a holiday • • •

No stamp duty or exit fees Independent over 50’s living Community Centre with leisure facilities

• • •

Resort style pool Outdoor BBQ area Bus stops, shops, cafes and restaurants close by

Call Alana 0404 378 801 *

Excludes land and site rental. A residents right to occupy residential premises under the Residential Tenancy Agreement is a leasehold right only, and not a freehold or other right of an unlimited or perpetual nature and may, in certain circumstances be terminated. You, the proposed resident have a right to seek independent advice before entering into any agreement and in particular the Residential Site Agreement.

www.broadlandsgardens.com.au Koolang Road Green Point

NEWS

Page 12 - Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 Share

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

Mysteriously controversial creek naming has chequered history t has taken Central Coast Council seven months, instead of the usual one month, to agree to refer a request to name a previously unnamed creek at Central Mangrove, to the Geographical Names Board.

On August 24, Central Coast Council Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, resolved to adopt the proposed naming of Stringy Bark Creek, notify all affected residents and formally submit the proposal to the Geographical Names Board for approval. Ms Margaret Pontifex OAM, has overseen the naming of over 300 creeks in the Mangrove Mountain district since the Bicentennial Year in 1988, and in all that time, only two applications have not made it through the process smoothly and quickly. Ms Pontifex was on the Local Bicentennial Committee, and when the residents of Mangrove Mountain were asked what they would like to do to commemorate the Bicentennial of colonisation, they said they would like funding to name all unnamed creeks throughout the local area. “During the past 28 years, the longest period of time it has taken to complete the process of naming an unnamed waterway, was three months,” Ms Pontifex said. “Normally, from the time somebody makes a call to council [formerly Gosford Council and now Central

The watercourse to be known as Stringy Bark Creek in blue

Coast Council], it takes one week to do an application, and then it is sent to the Geographical Names Board, and it comes up in the next quarterly Government Gazette,” Ms Pontifex said. “The only time council even questioned a proposed creek name before 2016, was due to the Darkinjung Local Area Land Council submitting a word that was in Blue Mountain language instead of a local indigenous language”, Ms Pontifex said. However, a proposal to give the name Stringy Bark Creek to a previously unnamed watercourse has, thus far, taken seven months. Ms Pontifex took the

usual first step of calling the Geographical Names Board on January 27, 2016, to confirm the creek did not have an existing name and was sent the necessary paperwork. On February 2, she lodged the naming application with the former Gosford Council to give the name Stringy Bark Creek to a permanent extensive watercourse arising in Central Mangrove, with two branches at coordinates 15 across and 36 down, and 14 across and 36 down on the Gosford topography map, and joins Ourimbah Creek at Stringy Bark Point on coordinates 15 across and 38 down on the Wyong topography map. She expected to see the proposed name advertised by council two weeks later, before it would be sent to the Geographical Names Board for final approval. On February 25, she

called Gosford Council and was told they had received her application which had been sent to State Forests and Wyong Council for their permission. “I had never heard of that being necessary before,” she said. Ms Pontifex then called State Forests. “They told me they were fine with the name and didn’t know it wasn’t already gazetted,” she said. On April 8, Ms Pontifex again called council and was told the application had gone to management. “I was asked whether or not I was aware this was a controversial issue,” she said. Another phone conversation with an officer from Gosford Council occurred on April 29. “I was again told it was controversial but also that the name was OK with Wyong Council and State

Scrumptious Meals Choose your favourite Affordable prices Free delivery Want to meet new friends and have some fun? We can Help! Join us for a delicious midday meal and transport can be supplied Need assistance with shopping, medical appointments or cooking classes? WE CAN HELP !! Just call 4357 8444

Forests,” she said. On May 26, Ms Pontifex again checked in with council and was told the application had to be typed in another format to be presented to management. On July 29, Ms Pontifex left a message to speak with the relevant officer within the new Central Coast Council. Her call was returned on August 1, and Ms Pontifex was informed, again, that the application had been presented to management and she would be informed of the outcome. “I had contacted the Geographical Names Board at the end of April and they informed me that if I did not get an outcome from council within six weeks, to let them know,” she said. At the August 24 ordinary meeting of Central Coast Council, Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, considered a report recommending council’s endorsement for the proposed naming of the creek at Central Mangrove as proposed by Mangrove Mountain and Districts Community Group. Following Mr Reynold’s approval, the proposal can finally be submitted to the Geographical Names Board (GNB) for approval. A report to council confirmed the naming proposal was received on February 4 from Ms Pontifex in her role as Secretary of the Mangrove Mountain and Districts Community Group, requesting the formal naming of two branches of a creek at Central Mangrove as, Stringybark Creek. “The Mangrove Mountain and Districts Community Group, as part of a Bicentennial project, have, since 1988, lodged applications with Council and GNB to officially name features based on cultural and historical perspectives. “The previous application

to the former Gosford City Council was approved on 27 January 2009, but the naming of this creek was not included. “In newspaper articles and Parliament of New South Wales, Papers No 38 and 42 of 2015, and 62 and 64 of 2016, the creek is referred to as Stringybark Creek. “The creek in question originates in, then passes through, nine lots along Wisemans Ferry Rd (from 1652 to 1752), Central Mangrove, before entering the Ourimbah State Forest where it joins into Ourimbah Creek at Stringybark Point in the Jilliby State Conservation Area. “It is proposed that both branches of the unnamed creek at Central Mangrove, which joins into Ourimbah Creek at Stringybark Point, be known as Stringybark Creek. “As this creek is partially located in Ourimbah State Forest (Jilliby State Conservation Area), and the former Wyong Council areas, letters were forwarded to the relevant authorities seeking concurrence. “Both authorities confirmed agreement with the proposal, stating that this creek is referred to unofficially as Stringybark Creek,” the report to council said. Ms Pontifex said she is now hopeful the council will quickly pass their concurrence with the naming, and feedback from affected properties, to the Geographical Names Board so the matter can be settled quickly. Interview, Aug 12, 2016 Margaret Pontifex, Mangrove Mountain and Districts Community Group Agenda item 3.3, Aug 24, 2016 Jackie Pearson, journalist

All aspects of small building work and property maintenance Now servicing Gosford and surrounding areas 25 years building experience

0414 486 515 NSW Building Lic #215846c

Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 - Page 13 SShare

Suburb boundary between Picketts Valley and Terrigal to be realigned

Ave Terrigal); Lot 202 DP1212731 (131 Picketts Valley Rd, Picketts Valley) and Lot 101 DP571221 (247 Scenic Hwy, Picketts Valley) be included in the suburb of Terrigal. The Geographical Names Board requires council to seek agreement from all owners of the land. The amendment would then be forwarded to the Geographical Names Board for their consideration. At the meeting, Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, resolved to seek to realign the Picketts Valley and Terrigal suburb boundaries, so that the land known as Lot 201 DP1212731, Lot 202 DP1212731 and Lot 101 DP571221 are within the suburb of Terrigal. Council will consult the owners of those lots of the proposed suburb boundary adjustment and will then submit the proposal, together with any feedback received, to the Geographical Names Board for approval. The boundary change was to be assessed before Stage 2 of the subdivision was completed. Agenda item 3.2, Aug 24, 2016 Central Coast Council ordinary meeting

The proposed boundaries for Picketts Valley and Terrigal

NEWS

Greyhound racing ban could cost Coast economy $79 million per year

he suburb boundary between Picketts Valley and Terrigal are set to be slightly realigned following support for the change by Central Coast Council. The change comes as a result of the approval of DA45149/2014 by the former Gosford Council. The approved development, known as Kings Park Terrigal, included: a subdivision of six lots into seven Torrens Title allotments; a community title subdivision of 131 allotments to be conducted in six stages; and dedication of land to council. A registered plan of subdivision, DP1199078, has been received for stage one of the DA to create a seven-lot staged subdivision. The plan has been amended by DP12172731 with an adjustment between the boundary of Lots 103 and 105 DP1199078. As a result, Lots 201 and 202 DP1212731 are both located in the suburbs of Picketts Valley and Terrigal, as the border traverses through both lots. “From an administrative viewpoint, street addressing anomalies would result when the next stage is lodged,” a report to council said. “It would therefore be appropriate to realign the suburb boundary,” the report said. It is proposed that the whole of Lot 201 DP1212731 (50 Kings

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

Gosford greyhound racing at the Gosford Showground

he passing of the Bill to ban greyhound racing in NSW Parliament could cost the Central Coast economy $79 million per year and threaten the future of the Gosford Showgrounds according to Shadow Minister for the Central Coast, Mr David Harris.

“The NSW Government has outlawed an industry overnight and not told anyone how it will be compensated,” said Mr Harris. “Rural and regional communities, such as ours, will feel the loss quite strongly,” Mr Harris said. “We have been told by the Greyhound Breeders Owners and Trainers Association (GBOTA) that the cost will be $79 million per annum to the Central Coast economy,” he said. According to Mr Harris, the decision of three National Members of the NSW Parliament to cross the floor and vote against their own government’s bill, while another two abstained from voting, was because they were aware of the

consequences of the ban on regional communities. “It isn’t just the owners and breeders, it is all the other suppliers, pet food suppliers, vets and so on,” he said. Gosford Showground, the location of the Gosford Greyhound Racing Club, would particularly feel the pain, according to Mr Harris. “Most of the improvements to Gosford Showground are funded through greyhound racing,” said Mr Harris. Mr Harris said the onus for maintaining and improving the facilities at the showground after the closure of the Gosford Greyhound Racing track in June 2017 would fall on the shoulders of much smaller organisations with

significantly fewer resources to devote to the task. “The passing of the bill will also result in a lot of animals being put down,” Mr Harris said. He said the NSW Opposition’s view had always been that the NSW Government’s decision to ban greyhound racing was “too narrow”. “Labor wanted to give the industry another two years under strict supervision to sort itself out,” he said. “In no way do we condone any of the appalling practices that have been exposed but, according to the NSW Government’s own report, only 10 to 20 per cent of operators were responsible for those practices; 80 per cent of participants in the industry

were doing the right thing,” he said. “Even the veterinarians have said that the ban was an evil created to fix an evil,” he said. Mr Harris said the decision to ban one industry was a missed opportunity in terms of dealing with broader issues of animal cruelty. “The pet industry has quite deplorable practices. “On the Coast, we have facilities that have traditionally euthanased far more dogs and cats each year than the greyhound industry, but this bill will not fix such problems. “Problems with puppy farms also won’t be addressed by the bill to ban one industry,” he said. Interview, Aug 24, 2016 David Harris, NSW Shadow Minister for the Central Coast

NEWS

Page 14 - Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 6 Share

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

Architects win excellence award ne of the Central Coast’s leading architectural firms has taken out top honours at the 2016 Urban Development Institute Australia (UDIA) NSW Meriton Awards for Excellence on August

O 5.

The Baker St extension has been fenced off for sewer works

Sewer upgrade and Baker St road reserve works have commenced ewer upgrade works have resulted in Central Coast Council fencing off the area of the Central Coast Leagues Club Field that it has also described as the Baker St road reserve.

“The developers will pay the cost of road construction.” According to Central Coast Council, Baker St is planned to connect to Vaughan St from Georgiana Tce in the future. “This is shown in the Gosford City Centre Masterplan and Chapter 4.4 Gosford Waterfront of DCP 2. “Baker St is required to be constructed under the Roads Act as a condition of consent on the adjoining land. “The conditions of Development consent DA49223/2016 require

According to a statement from Central Coast Council: “Council has fenced off the Baker St road reserve between Georgiana Tce and Vaughan St for sewer upgrading works. “The sewer works are expected to be completed by mid-November,” the statement said. “The construction of Baker St road works will be carried out as development on the adjoining land,” the statement said, referring to the Baker St South extension, mooted as part of the redevelopment of the former Gosford Public School land.

FREE

May 24, 2016

Your independent community newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369

FREE

Issue 92

June 21, 2016

Central Coast Council to hold its ﬁrst public meeting he ﬁrst meeting of the new Central Coast Council is to be an Extraordinary Meeting and it will be held at the Wyong Civic Centre on Wednesday, May 25 at 5:00pm.

The Local Government (Council Amalgamations) Proclamation 2016 that dissolved Gosford and Wyong Councils and created the new Central Coast Council did not provide detail on how meetings would be conducted during the administration period. In announcing the ﬁrst meeting, a media release from the Central Coast Council said: “Newly appointed administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, will preside over the ﬁrst Central Coast Council meeting on Wednesday 25 May.” Mr Reynolds said he was pleased and privileged to take on the role of administrator of one of the largest councils in Australia. “We will be managing an annual budget of $800 million and over $8 billion in assets for over 331,000 residents, a huge challenge, but one that staff and myself are certainly up for. “It is an exciting time to be here, the Central Coast has now been established as a region in its own right and can only go from strength to

sewerage and stormwater drainage fees and charges for 2016-17 in respect to the former Gosford Local Government Area; and the proposed transfer of land at Kangy Angy to Transport NSW. Meetings of the new Central Coast Council will be held on the second and fourth Wednesday of most months and will alternate between the chambers at Wyong and Gosford. The Wyong meeting will be held on the fourth Wednesday of each month and the meetings held on the second Wednesday of the month will be located in Gosford. The new council is also expected to agree that all future meetings will be audio recorded and, in the future, podcasting of meetings will also be considered. The former Wyong Council did record its meetings; Gosford Council did not. Under the Proclamation which dismissed the former councils and created the new Central Coast Council on May 12, clause eight stated that the code of meeting practice of the former Wyong Council was to be the new council’s code. However, the former Wyong code would have meant that all meetings of the new Central Coast Council would have been held in Wyong, hence amendments were

required. An amended code of meeting practice is also likely to go on public exhibition for 28 days and submissions can be made for at least 42 days from the date the draft code goes on exhibition. Alternating the meeting venue between Gosford and Wyong: “Will provide the public with 7, more equitable June 2016

access to and participation in council meetings,” a report from the interim general manager, Mr Rob Noble, to the May 25 meeting said. Other amendments to be made to the code The former Wyong Council chamber will be the venue for the of meeting practice first meeting of the new Central Coast Council on May 25 were the of he inclusionnew were dismissed on May the Extraordinary Council strength. the defi nition of an Central Coast “Staff have been 12 and replaced with an meeting is available on administrator C o utonclarify c i l ’tos both the former Wyong working hard on the administrator. the community and The new council’s Council and Gosford transition to one council administrator, Mrstaff Ian how the code to team Council websites. and residents should be communications Reynolds, hasapplies agreed, the the administrator, Items to be discussed assured that the services said the administrator, at council’s fiand rst clarification of meeting they expect from their Mr Ian Reynolds, would at the meeting include public meeting on venues specify and local council will not perform the role of administrative May 25, totosell land in addresses. only be continued but mayor and councillors by governance matters such Orchard Rd, Kangy A further report will considering reports from as: a code of conduct will be enhanced. Angy to the NSW be provided to council and related matters; “I look forward to directors. Government to build on July 27 to allow The administrator committees of the former getting out and about and athemulti-million dollar council to consider learning as much about may ask questions of Gosford and Wyong train maintenance submissions and whether the area as I can as soon the relevant director in Councils; interim salary facility. to adopt the amended relation to a report or arrangement for council; as possible,” he said. Kangy Angy residents code. code of meeting practice A statement from the recommendation. have been fighting Members of the public and location of council Central Coast Council Media release, 17, 2016 the land saleMayand the said the public could can still apply to address meetings; and, the interim Business paper,development May 25, 2016 proposed the meeting about a organisational structure attend the meeting. Council since Extraordinary they learnedMeeting about for the new council. Wyong Regional particular item. it in September. Agenda item 3.7, According to the At the end of the Chronicle asked the Transport May for 25,NSW 2016 Central Coast Council discussion of an agenda business paper, the Central Coast Council has also announced the to explain the format item, the administrator meeting will also make extraordinary meeting Review of Environmental in the meeting would take, will make a decision as determinations Factors Media (REF)statement, and given that the former to whether to approve, relation to: a quarterly May 17, 2016 concept plan for media the Central Coast Council mayors of Wyong and amend, defer or refuse a budget review for the facility be on public Jackiewill Pearson, journalist Gosford Council and report’s recommendation. former Gosford Council; exhibition from June 6 to A business paper for determination of water, all elected councillors July 4. Ms Michelle Nicholson from the Kangy Angy Residents Action Group Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 said Transport for NSW representatives met with Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 residents on Friday, E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net May 27 “to fulfi l their Website: www.centralcoastnews.net obligations to engage in community consultation. “When we raised our concerns about the flooding the project director said it was ‘their risk’. “We believe this is not their risk to take, as they are also risking our tax payer dollars, the endangered species, and worsening the flooding in our area,” Ms Nicholson said. The land was identified by the former Wyong Council as an alternative site to land at Warnervale for Transport for NSW to

EE REE REE FRRE FRE

Issue 94

July 19, 2016

Wyong rates to increase by 6.9 per cent

LL, a major real estate investment company, has been engaged by Central Coast Council to sell a landmark 87.95 hectares of land at Kiar Ridge.

FREE

he former Wyong Council determined at one of its last meetings to take the ﬁnal year of its special rate variation (SRV) out of its draft 2016-17 operational plan, but the new Central Coast Council has decided to continue to charge the SRV in 2016-17.

Council’s ﬁrst property decision angers residents

Promise

Issue 93

Road upgrades (general) Improving your local parks and environment program funding Blackspot funding EDSAAC Grandstand Better Beach access for the disabled Wyong Hospital Upgrade meeting. M1 Productivity “Resident,Package Mr Neil CCTV cameras Bolte and Community Hospital equipment Network Environment representative, Mr Mike Kamira funding

Candidates Emma McBride $5million

Karen McNamara $12.3million

$1,060,000

$3million $491,200 $2million

$2million $1.5million $195million* $205,000 $100,000 $2.2million

Campbell, were both $300,000 (over givenCoast reasonable time Legal to Centre Central Community three years) voice the Kangy Angy Berkeley Vale Oval $75,000 residents’ concerns about $3million Tuggerah Lakes Estuary the transfer of the land,” Bateau Bay PCYCsaid. $50,000 Ms Nicholson up to $60million Roads“Tonight’s rescue Package decision by Footpaths $2.5million Central Coast Council’s new administrator to Totals: $269,610,000 $21,171,200 offl fload flood prone, * Already in Federal Budget from 2013 environmentally sensitive landothtomajor Transport parties,forLiberal and Labor, have been making promises NSW to build a $300 to spend money on key projects for Dobell throughout the election million train facility campaign. is irresponsible and is detrimental to the Kangy To make easier forarea. -O-Meter will also give general information about Angy anditOurimbah voters “Let’s to see the totals the readers a list of what to the Dobell electorate, the hope pledged anddecision what they look out for in the future location of polling booths reckless tonight are isfor,not Wyong Regional to keep track of how as well as the latest and a sign of things Chronicle has put together many promises have been final information from all Flooding of the Kangy Angy access road near the proposed train maintenance site on June 4 and 5 to come from the new of pledges made by kept by the winning party. the parties as they relate amalgamated council. “Council has beena list use as the maintenance “It is likely the State the NSW Government, parties since will Our major election to Dobell begins on page “Residents on ofboth major and stabling facility for Government would have Mr Reynolds was simply forced into a situation election wastocalled. coverage, including 12. fight the moved to compulsorily doing its bidding, he said: agreeing to sell or forced orcedthe continue its new intercity fleet. Dobell development Spend candidate profiles, proposed Documents obtained acquire this land if “The decision was would to accept terms that may The not be beneficial too the that is being built in a under the Government council had not agreed to I agree to sell the land. ridiculous location. “I am independent of community. Information Public sell it. “The facility would “This decision government influence, “It is really sad when Access (GIPA) Act se on have no access in, would indicate that Transport guarantees the best I am not here to do the potential impacts arise for NSW wanted their outcome for council and government’s bidding, the people of that area,” be built by filling in a wetland and wasting our I am here to serve the he said. facility to be built on land residents.” Mr Reynolds said council,” Mr Reynolds Mr Noble said he tax payer dollars. at Warnervale but Wyong “Transport’s would defend the decision ision Council discouraged that the new facility would said. “Business goes on. to keep the sale price ce of consultants put forward location as it interfered have the potential to “We have to deal with the land confidential until eight preferred sites and with the former council’s create hundreds of local Kangy Angy was not one d. plan to develop Wyong as construction jobs and business as usual and the the deal was finalised. state government said if “The price will of them. a business and education ongoing employment. “Transport for NSW “The decision I had to we don’t sell it, it will be eventually become public ublic precinct. al in need to rethink their illIn September, make was about the land compulsorily acquired,” but … commercial confidence is a really eally conceived plan.” Transport for NSW transfer,” Mr Reynolds he said. Central Coast Council important element of named the flood-prone said at a media conference Email, Jun 2, 2016 CEO, Mr Rob Noble: business deals when Kangy Angy land as the after the meeting. Michelle Nicholson, Kangy “There is a separate “You could align the money is involved,”” Mr preferred location to Angy Residents Action Group establish the new Fleet question about whether decision about the Kangy Noble said. Agenda item 3.4, May 25, the facility should be Angy land with the Sword “We are shockedd by Management Facility. 2016 In making his first developed and that is part of Damocles that came the decision made byy the Meeting transcript, May 25, Kangy angy planning decision in the of a planning process,” he down with the immediate administrator,” 2016 sacking of all councillors. Angy Residents Action position of administrator said. Central Coast Council “We have had a sword Group spokesperson, Ms In responding to extraordinary meeting with the newly-formed Jackie Pearson, journalist Central Coast Council, comments from residents held over our heads,” Mr Michelle Nicholson said following the council Mr Ian Reynolds said: that as an appointee of Noble said.

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

In essence, this decision by the new council means that Wyong rates will increase by up to 6.9 per cent instead of 3 per cent in 2016-17. In June 2013, the NSW Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) determined council’s application for a special rate variation. The IPART determination at the time said: “We have determined that Wyong Council may increase its general income … resulting in a cumulative increase of 30.59 per cent over the next four years, or 17.6 per cent above the rate peg. “These annual increases incorporate the rate peg to which the council would otherwise be entitled,” the determination said. At the time, that rate peg was projected to sit around 3 per cent, in line with official inflation forecasts. Based on IPART’s projections, that annual increase in general income for the 2016-17 financial year would be over $5 million. However, at the April 27 ordinary meeting

of Wyong Council, councillors determined that they wished to give a dividend back to the community by not collecting the SRV in its final year. That would have resulted in rates in the former Wyong local government area increasing by the IPART rate peg of 3 per cent only, and not by the SRV. According to the minutes from the April 27 meeting of Wyong Council, councillors moved to remove the final year of the special rate variation of 6.9 per cent from its draft strategic plan and replace it with a rate increase capped at 3 per cent. During the debate over whether to collect the SRV or not, some councillors argued that the decision should have been sent to the Office of Local Government to ensure a decision not to collect the SRV would be in line with the merger guidelines that decisions of the former Wyong Council were subject to in the period before the merger. According to the minutes, instead of

seeking advice from the Ofﬁce of Local Government, councillors notedJuly that they 5,considered 2016 the merger guidelines and formed the view they did not apply and stated its reasons why. However, since the formation of the Central Coast Council and dissolution of the former Wyong council, the decision regarding the special rate variation has been reversed. In a media conference following the Central Coast Council’s June 8 ordinary meeting, CEO Mr Rob Noble said: “That was an expression of intent by the former Wyong Council. “It hadn’t actually been adopted by virtue of the fact the former Wyong Council never did adopt its operational plan for 2016-17,” he said. “So the new operational plan incorporates the proposed original SRV. “It will be on public exhibition (but not advertised in this newspaper) and we will wait for the public’s feedback on that,” he said.

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

Your You Y Yo our ur independent community c newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369

The land was acquired by the former Wyong Council from Terrace Towers in June 2014 for $10 million and became the preferred site for a Central Coast Regional Airport with the capacity to expand to the status Issue 95 of an interstate and international terminal. The site is situated immediately west of the M1 motorway and bounded by Hue Hue and Sparks Rds. According to JLL, the site includes 56 hectares of DA-approved developable industrial land in a 69 lot masterplan. If developed, the land would yield a total ﬂoor area of 556,400 square metres. According to Mr Laurie Eyes from the Central Coast Regional Airport Action Group, the purchase price paid by the Wyong Council in 2014 was double the NSW Valuer General’s valuation and the land was purchased without obtaining an independent valuation. At the time of acquiring the land, former mayor, Mr Doug Eaton OAM said: “There is no demand for industrial land as has been proved by the fact that the existing Terrace

Dobell D Dob Dobe obeelll reclaimed recl by Labor

A breakdown of the two candidate preferred votes of Dobell

Continued P3

Democratic Member for Dobell. abor’s bor’s Ms Emm E ma Mc Emma McBride McBrid dee secured se seccured secure ured ed d the seat of Dobell and an returned Commission, Dobell had Christian “I spent this campaign incumbent Liberal a 79.96 per cent turnout Party with 2,128 votes the h elector electorate l orate too its i L Lab Labor or roo or roots oots oo ots after a ousting incumb and a 5.71 per cent and 2.59 per cent. out listening to our MP Ms Karen McNamara Mc a att tthe he polls on July 2. he

With Wit ith 89,339 339 votes counted, d a 7.62 7 62 per cent en swing vote placed Ms McBride ﬁrmly rm ahea ahead off Mss McNamara McNam with 55.6 5.6 pperr cent ent of th the vote ttoo 444.4 per cent on a two party preferred eferred basis b as of 44.30pm 30pm on o July J lly 44. Ms McBride, who lost the 2013 election to Ms McNamara by 1000 votes, dedicated her victory to her father, former Member for the Entrance and Minister for Gaming and Racing, Mr Grant McBride and said she would endeavour to reﬂect his approach to politics in her own.

Your independent community newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369

“In “ the he 2013 20013 election I was a candidate candida cand didat di idatee for 28 days. ays. “This time T im around, I was w able to spend spppend six months nths thhs out outt listening l to our community commun com ommun mmun munnity and talkingg to t families famil fa famili milies on the mili mil Coast about aboout what they wanted to see in their local representative. “Labor made strong commitments to funding our healthcare and hospitals as well as delivering needs based funding for our schools. “I am excited to be part of a team who are committed to improving health and educational

outcomes for our community. “My father was a fath well-respected local well-respecte representative representativ for our community and fought hard to get the funding and outcomes outcome the Central Coast deserved deserv during his time as the State Member S for The Entrance. Entra “I saw from a young fr age what it takes to work t hard to represent your rep community. “He always put the alwa community ﬁrst and that's what I would like to do as well,” Ms McBride said. According to the Australian Electoral

informal vote. First preference count voting for Dobell placed Ms McBride and the Australian Labor Party ahead with 37,082 votes and 44.02 per cent of the vote. Second was Ms McNamara and the Liberals with 31,343 and 37.21 per cent. Third place surprised many with Mr Carter Edwards of Pauline Hanson’s One Nation receiving 7,169 and 8.51 per cent, followed by Ms Abigail Boyd and the Greens with 4,654 and 5.52 per cent and Mr Robert Ervin of the

Dobell has traditionally been a Labor stronghold on the Central Coast, with Labor’s Mr Michael Lee holding the seat for 17 years, from Dobell’s first election in 1984 to 2001. While, Ms McBride was celebrating her win on July 2, Ms NcNamara refused to concede defeat and was relying on the then (July, 2) 21,000 prepoll and postal votes yet to be counted. Ms McBride said she would continue the listening tour that was a core aspect of her campaign as one of her first official acts as

community who had been let down by the Turnbull Government “I want to continue that conversation with the people in Dobell and make sure I am able to be the best representative for our community,” Ms McBride said. Ms McNamara did not respond to questions about the result. Websites, Jul 4, 2016 Australian Electoral Commission Tally Room Dobell Websites, Jul 4, 2016 Emma McBride Facebook Interview, Jul 4, 2016 Emma McBride MP Journalist, Dilon Luke

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

www.centralcoastnewspapers.com

Your independent community newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369

The University of Newcastle Canopies Project. It was also awarded three commendations in the Interior Architecture (Gateway Project), Residential Architecture (Eclipse Apartments) and Small Project (UoN Canopies Project) categories. CKDS was also shortlisted for the AIA NSW State Awards (Gateway Project). “These accolades and acknowledgements are a wonderful recognition of the high quality of work CKDS is producing and represent a realisation of the unique architectural design opportunities for the region,” Mr King concluded. Media release, Aug 10, 2016 Melinda Smith, Purser Communications

Tender let for Somersby Industrial Park upgrade entral Coast Council has accepted a tender from Ourimbahbased Milbant Constructions Pty Ltd for Stage One of the Somersby Falls Rd, Somersby Industrial Park upgrade.

The Tender Evaluation Report remained confidential in accordance with section 11(3) of the Local Government Act 1993, as the report contained commercial information of a confidential nature. Council has entered into a deed of agreement under the National Stronger Regions Fund program for infrastructure upgrades within Somersby Industrial Park. Part of the identified works included the upgrade of storm water drainage, sewer, water mains and roadway along Somersby Falls Rd, between Myoora Rd and Yanda Rd. The contract plan for the tender process was approved by the former Manager, Construction Planning and Management, before the request for tender

was issued. The tender was advertised in the Sydney Morning Herald and Tenderlink on June 7 and locally on June 8, but not in this newspaper. The invitation documents called for lump sum tenders, based on a detailed specification. A non-mandatory pretender meeting was held on site on June 15 to allow tenderers to become familiar with site conditions. Tender submissions were received from Delcare Constructions Pty Ltd, Diona Pty Ltd, Josa Constructions Pty Ltd, Kerroc Constructions Pty Ltd, Keller Civil Engineering Pty Ltd, Milbant Constructions Pty Ltd and Scape Constructions Pty Ltd. All submissions were

assessed in accordance with the pre-determined approved tender evaluation plan criteria. A report prepared for the August 24 council meeting said that sufficient funds had been allocated for the contract within the 2016/2017 capital works program. “These funds have been sourced in part from the National Stronger Regions Fund program,” the report said. No public consultation specific to the contract was necessary and none occurred. The value of the winning tender has been kept from the community and other losing tenderers. Agenda item 2.3, Aug 24, 2016 Central Coast Council ordinary meeting

Issue 98

Wallarah 2 seen as a threat on many levels Haven meeting is an important step, because I am sure that there are many people in Blue Haven and other nearby areas that do not know this thing is going to be on their doorstep,” she said. The Australian Coal Alliance has also raised concerns about mine subsidence, air extraction from the proposed mine and that approval of the project could allow dumping of water into local lakes and/or the The latest proposal ocean. from South Korean “The best analogy I mining company KORES can come up with is that could see a coal conveyor it would be the same as belt, rail spur, and coal allowing an underground stock pile, located within 4325 7369 coal mine in the Sydney 200 metres of Blue Issue Haven 97 Hills District with a coal homes. loader in the middle A nine-storey coal of Castle Hill,” said loader would also be the Australian Coal visible from Blue Haven Alliance’s Water Not An underground shearer that grinds coal from the seam, dumps it on a conveyor and and would come within lets the roof of the mine fall down behind it that could cause subsidence and damage to the water aquifer Coal Campaign Director, 300 metres of houses “But the commission Mr Alan Hayes. Spokesperson for The in the new residential catchment, a catchment promise. “When you talk about “If the Baird Greens Central Coast, even found KORES’ suburb to be developed that supplies water to by the Darkinjung Local 320,000 people,” he said. government can … use Ms Kate da Costa, who economic argument for coal dust, you are talking He said KORES, the taxpayers’ money in attended the meeting, the mine overblown about fine micro particles Aboriginal Land Council. Government Caroona, then we have said: “The proposal is and not particularly (micron) that can’t be The amended Korean no future, that Mike The Greens NSW seen by the naked eye owned mining company every right to expect the that the conveyor belt compelling,” she said. development application erson, should knock that on holds the mining same here, particularly and stock pile will be mining spokesperson, The clincher, for Ms da but are carried many and Baird Environmental the head. gham, Mr Jeremy Buckingham, Impact Statement are exploration licence, is given their previous operating 24 hours and Costa, was that KORES’ kilometres by the wind “The onproposed has called on NSW seven days a week for own reportedly suffering election promises. Environmental and will get into your currently public coal conveyor belt and premier, Mr Mike Baird, financial issues, raising Statement lungs and cause all sorts “To continue to ignore 30 years, so freight trains Impact exhibition. loading are doubts about the their solemn commitment will be loading coal from conceded that a coal mine of respiratory problems,” to intervene to stopp the MrcoalHarris said area he more round unacceptably close viability to Wallarah 2 underground of the proposed is nothing more than an un-covered conveyor in such a populated area Mr Hayes said. called on the NSW existing residential coal mine project. “The NSW belt around the clock.” “could increase mortality political bastardry.” Bairdthe Government to project. of Blue“The Wallarah 2 mine “The Coalition made According to Ms da by one in 100,000 people Government wants the An earlier Australian buy neighbourhood back the Wallarah Haven and may impactproposal on a solemn promise not to whole northern area of the has been a major Coal Alliance meeting Costa, the only part of the per year. 2 exploration licence the Darkinjung allow the Wallarah 2 coal election issue since 2011 was held at Wyong RSL development application “There are over Central Coast zoned for afterplans the bygovernment Local Aboriginal Land mine to go ahead,”” Mr housing, but if you had a that KORES has changed at both a state and Federal 300,000 people living on on August 10 to update confirmed they would pay for toresidential Buckingham said. the community about the is the mechanism for the Central Coast so that young family, would you BHPCouncil $220 million buy level. r, Mr in the area.”“It featured heavily latest attempts by KORES getting the coal from the is three deaths per year,” go to coal mine central to “Former premier, backdevelopment their mining licence raise your children?” he Council Barry O’Farrell, told most recently in the 2016 to have the Wallarah 2 mine to the train. she said. for the Central proposedCoast Caroona the effect a crowd that the mine She said the Federal election, when underground coal mine According to Ms said. mineconcerns in the about Liverpool on the drinking water would not go aheadd ‘no Government’s da Costa, community Labor won the seat of approved by the NSW NSW plains. Media release, Aug 12, 2016 ntee’. “The catchment, environment ifs, no buts, a guarantee’. Dobell on a platform Planning Assessment requirement for the members at the August Baird /O’Farrell Zachary Harrison, office of Assessment 10 meeting expressed a opposing the mine. Commission as a State Planning later, and residential areas, “Yet years government promised to will David Harris alition central its asreview“Mike Baird was the Significant Development. Commission to “prioritise sense of frustration that the NSW Coalition Interview, Aug 12, 2016 stop be Wallarah 2 into2011 Kate da Costa, outcomes” they had been fighting the Treasurer in The meeting was economic led to of modifi fied plans for Shadow the Government has failed an election commitment,” Central Coast Greens assessing Wallarah 2 coal mine for 2011, and must have attended by around 180 when implement this promise,” mise,” Wallarah Mr Harris said.2 Coal Project. Interview, Aug 12, 2016 supported the infamous locals who came from as developments, meant the 11 years. Mr Buckingham said. d. Wyong “TheThe former proposed Alan Hayes, Australian Coal “This is an important Liberal ‘No ifs, no buts, far afield as The Entrance mine’s approval was still “This coal mine ne is Shire2 project Council opposed Wallarah would Alliance a possibility. a guarantee’ election and Terrigal. fight to win, and the Blue a risk not only too the mineourin water February Jackie Pearson, journalist be the beneath water catchment off the 2014 due to the potential Central Coast, but to the impacts on the drinking credibility of the Liberal iberal water catchment areas. Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Party when it makes The former Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 commitments to the City Council also Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 electorate. opposed the project in E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net “It should fulfil those March 2014. Website: www.centralcoastnews.net commitments and reject Council has stated it intends to closely the mine. “The Korean orean review the revised plans Government has with a view to lodging a announced a restructure ucture submission. of its state owned resource ource Council has also companies that willl see encouraged community them withdraw from members to take this international resource ource opportunity to have their projects, so it is unclear nclear voice heard. why the government nment Information regarding should approve a mine the project is available plan for a company likely from NSW Planning’s to leave the market. major projects website. “There is no need ed to Media release, Jul 26, 2016 build this coal mine. “The communityy are Central Coast Council media Media release, Jul 26, 2016 bitterly opposed. Max Phillips, office of “The company doesn’t Jeremy Buckingham want to build it, it just Interview, Jul 29, 2017 wants an approval to sell. Alan Hayes, Australian Coal Alliance “It’s a dud mine, with

ember for W y o n g and NSW Shadow Minister for the Central Coast, Mr David Harris, will speak at a Water Not Coal meeting to be held at the Blue Haven Community Centre on August 18, following his call for the NSW Government to buy back the Wallarah 2 exploration licence.

was subsequently taken for the operation of larger back out of the 2013 LEP. aircraft” but “it could be Council then resolved viably developed into a to investigate the significant regional airport feasibility of a smaller offering regional intradomestic and regional state and interstate airline services.” airport at Kiar Ridge. The October 28 “Investigations have meeting included site proving confidential and engineering cost subsequently determined estimates, passenger to abandon the Kiar Ridge demand forecasts, site for an airport and ecological studies, focus on moving forward preliminary master with developing a general planning, community aviation hub and regional consultation plan and airport at Warnervale. A further $6 million economic impact studies,” been allocated in Your independent community newspaper - Ph: the report said. August 2,has 2016 “The 2013 Central the 2016-17 budget for Coast Regional Airport stage 1 development of Project Plan established the Warnevale Airport the airport development western precinct and as a significant catalyst for acquisition of eastern An expressions A i off iinterest sign i has been erected on the land for the airport economic development landd acquired by Wyong Council in 2014 as the site for a Central Coast regional airport employment development. The land is zoned IN1 paper discus discussed by the history behind and Speaking after a recent for industrial ustrial use and E2 councillors on October O 28. council’s acquisition of generation,” it said. In June 2015, council Central Coast Council Environmental nmental and is now “Investigatio into the the Kiar Ridge land. “Investigations endorsed the meeting, Mr Dowling being sold as a site for proposed CCRA [Central “In March 2012, also said the development industrial al development. Regiona Airport] the State and Federal investigation of alternative Coast Regional he Australian of the regional airport Expressions essions of interest Kiar Ridge site sit indicate Government’s second options including “do Coalat Alliance Warnervale provided close onn Thursday, August that the development de Sydney Airport Site nothing” and developing isat opportunities organising for 25. hi due to Selection cost is very high Study… the existing aerodrome a public meeting to growth. employment Central Coast property acquisition ral acqui and identified Wallarah as Warnervale. “It has always been the In Marchinform 2015,the northern Council’s newly- site preparation costs to one of five potential Type l’s Central Coast appointed said 1 (International) airport Wyong Council took intention of this council to ed group leader remove Kiar Ridge,” Ri a strong general over the management and acquire community about the of Assets, report, sites. ets, Infrastructure the confi fidential denti aviation hub including latest developments and Business, usiness, Mr Mike prepared by the council’s “Council subsequently operation of Warnervale aircraft repair, design in Central their long-running Dowling, g, was general Property and Economic included the proposed Airport from the andstop providing hangars campaign to the manager er of the Terrace Development directorate. di airport site at Kiar Ridge Coast Aero Club. The aero club had 2 for Wallarah coalgeneral mine. aviation,” Mr Towers group before he “The site also al carries in the Draft 2013 Wyong said. for 25 Dowling of the was appointed ecological LEP,” the confidential managed the site Director pointed director of signifi ficant He said new deed Water Not demand for propertyy and economic obligations for fo council report to Wyong Council years and the alliance’s suchMrservices provided for Coal council campaign, Alan outside of development pment by Wyong with an Environmental Envi said. was strong. the aero said Sydney the meeting Councill in January 2015. Offset requirement of the requirem “The Wallarah site acquisition of Hayes, on be theheld at Wyong Kiar Ridge was order of 1,400 hectares,” proposal was not feasible club’s propertywould release, Jun 14, 2015 RSL on August Media 10. Wyong abandoned as the the confi report as it crossed the Local airport, with provisions ned fidential denti Council media The to Korean mining Website, Jul 18, 2016 preferred ed site for a Central said. Government boundary, to relocate its facilities airport. KORES http://rca.jll.com.au/ company has Coast Regional Airport According to the report, required the realignment another site on the The alternative option an property-land+developmentlodged amended by Wyong modelling of the M1 motorway and yong Council in financial development proposalnsw--502012306 a confi nfi fidential council indicated that the Kiar had some terrain issues to develop Warnervale that includesAgenda plansitemto7.1, Oct 28, 2016 session in October 2015. Ridge proposal would not which would affect which resulted in the Wyong Counci buildbeing a conveyor belt and Kiar Ridge land ordinary meeting The history of Wyong have generated a positive runway suitability.” alter of the rail wasthenotrouteInterview notes, Jun 29, 2016 withi the first ow within As a result, Wyong listed for sale,spur to avoid having to Mike Dowling “the long15 years of oper Council concluded the deemed to offer reach operation. an with Coast Counci The latest plans include a relocated rail loop (shown in purple) theagreementCentral The cconfidential airport proposal required term capabilitytheof Darkinjung Jackie Pearson, journalist Local site the main access to the other concerns could be plans. business paper outlined further investigation and CCRA Kiar Ridge Aboriginal Land Council. addressed. Mr Hayes said the new development. Plans have been Mr Hayes said that in proposal Those concerns development modified relating to the included the mine’s would see the conveyor 2014, Dr Peter Lewis, Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford rail loop, rail spur line impact on the Central belt transporting coal 200 the clinical director of the Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940load out facility. and train Coast’s water supply, metres from the south- Central Coast integrated Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 The project has been subsidence and the health western boundary of the care program, said the E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net modified to realign the effects of coal dust. Blue Haven residential expected mortality rate Website: www.centralcoastnews.net sewer connection. The Darkinjung Local area and as far north as for coal dust related to the The State Significant Aboriginal Land Council Wyee. Wallarah 2 mine could be Development was took the matter to the “Tooheys Rd would one on 100,000. recently lodged with the Land and Environment disappear because that “Wyong CBD is five Planning Assessment Court, which ruled that road does not have a wide kilometres from the Commission and is on the mine could not go verge on either side and proposed coal handling public exhibition (but ahead without permission KORES doesn’t own any facilities, Blue Haven not advertised in this to utilise Darkinjung land in that area, so they and Lake Haven are newspaper) for six weeks, land. would be wanting the even closer, and there with a closing date of The new proposal does conveyor to run along the are schools, hospitals and September 6. not include Darkinjung carriage way,” Mr Hayes aged care facilities,” Mr According to Mr land. said. Hayes said. Hayes, the Planning The Darkinjung “The Planning CEO of the Darkinjung Assessment Commission LALC, Mr Sean Gordon, Local Aboriginal Land Assessment Commission did not approve the declined to comment Council already has has rejected four coal coal mine in 2014, on the impact the latest approval for a 500 lot mines already this year but stated that there Wallarah II proposal may residential sub-division because of their proximity may be justification have on the Darkinjung that would be impacted to residential areas,” he to approve the mine if land and development because Tooheys Rd is said. all the commission’s

REE RE FRE FR

Wallarah 2 coal mine decision on now only a few weeks awayy

CKDS Architecture has worked on some of Newcastle and the Central Coast region’s most diverse commercial, industrial and residential designs including the Waterside Development and Tuggerah’s Regional Sports Centre. The firm is well known for its ability to collaborate with developers, other architects and builders and has been actively involved in a varied portfolio ranging from large-scale mixed use developments to boutique residential alterations and additions. CKDS was also recognised at the 2016 Newcastle Australian Institute Architecture (AIA) Awards held in March. The firm won the Commercial Architecture Award for the Gateway Project along with the Award for Steel Architecture for

FREE

August 16, 2016

Issue 96

Sale of Kiar Ridge land marks the end of the ﬁrst regional airport

T Your independent community newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369

Media statement, Aug 23, 2016 Central Coast Council media

FREE

Your independent community newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369

Dobell Spend-O-Meter

construction of part of Baker St. “Public consultation was carried out, (but not advertised in this newspaper) under the exhibition of DA 49223/2016, and exhibition of the Gosford City Centre Masterplan and DCP 2013. “Council is aware of the potential archaeological sites and has commissioned a consultant archaeologist to investigate the area in Baker St in conjunction with the proposed sewer works,” the statement said.

CKDS Architecture, based in East Gosford, was awarded Excellence in Northern NSW Regions Development for its work on the Gateway Parry Development project located in Newcastle. CKDS also received a commendation in the Excellence in Commercial Development category for the same project. The firm will now be considered for the UDIA President’s Award announced in September. Directors, Mr Caine King and Mr Stuart Campbell, accepted the awards during a gala dinner held at The Star in Sydney. “We are committed to creating and designing places of excellence across all levels for people living and working in modern urban environments,” Mr King said.

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

A free e nnewspaper ewsp ew sp pap a er w with itithh in in-depth de Wyong Local Government Area news!

Dirty Tiles & Grout? ...Forget Pointless Scrubbing! cru We Clean, Seal & Re-colour Tile & Grout Call now for your nearest GroutPro Specialist!

Tile Re-Grouting Tile Repairs Shower Glass Tile Anti-Slip Treatment Silicone Replacement

FFree Call 1800 822 459 • Franchises Available • www.groutpro.com.au

10OFF %

Expiry 3/1/14

Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 - Page 15 Co SShare

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

NEWS

West and North Gosford water transfer mains works contract let

erroc Constructions Pty Ltd has been granted the contract for Reservoirs Valve Pit Construction in West and North Gosford.

Works under the contract form part of the Mardi High Lift Pump Station project. The Mardi High Lift Pump Station project aims to provide for the automated and efficient transfer of water between the Wyong and Gosford systems. The works involve the automation of existing valves on the transfer mains at North and West Gosford reservoirs. The contractor will be required to install two valve pits at North Gosford reservoir, and one valve pit at West Gosford reservoir,

and to fit motors to the valves within the pits. A non-mandatory pretender meeting was held on site on June 7 to allow tenderers to become familiar with site conditions. Tenders were received from (in alphabetical order): Carey Constructions; Gongues Constructions Pty Ltd; Kerroc Constructions Pty Ltd; Quay Civil Pty Ltd; and Scape Constructions Pty Ltd. All submissions were assessed. According to a report to the August 24 ordinary

meeting of the Central Coast Council, sufficient funds were allocated for this contract within the 20162017 capital works program. The contract was been assessed as a low to medium risk contract but its value has been kept secret from rate payers and other tenderers. Agenda item 2.6, Aug 24, 2016 Central Coast Council ordinary meeting

Investment portfolio drops by $1.77 million for July he net value of Central Coast Council’s investment portfolio dropped by $1.77 million for the month to July 31, according to the July investment report presented at the August 24 ordinary council meeting.

According to the report, the outflow was “predominantly due to normal contractual payments.” Interest earnings also fell from $1.3 million during June to $814,000 for the month of July. However, the weighted average interest earned on the council’s portfolio was 3.08% compared with the Bank Bill Swap Rate of 2.14% for the period. All local councils are required to restrict funds

received for specific purposes and, according to the July investment report, “restrictions from Gosford Council and Wyong Council have been transferred to Central Coast Council”. The report contained a table of the new council’s portfolio by source of funds but said: “The restrictions for July are subject to change as the Financial Statements for both Gosford Council and Wyong Council are yet to be finalised and audited for the reporting period

ending May 12”. The draft breakdown of restrictions indicated that council is currently holding $35.5 million in unexpended loans and grants. The report also shows that council currently holds over 12 per cent of its non-at-call investments in floating rate notes instead of term deposits. Agenda item 4.1, Aug 24, 2016 Central Coast Council ordinary meeting

Phil and Trudy Edgeley will play at First Saturday Blues

Phil and Trudy return from the USA in time for Hotel Gosford show he third and last of the Women in Blues, Jazz and Roots series for Hotel Gosford’s First Saturday Blues Nights will feature one of the foremost tirelessly touring folk blues marriages in the country.

Former Coastie, Trudy Edgeley, will bring her powerful songs of ‘blackbirding’ in Far North Queensland to First Saturday Blues on September 3, and she’ll be joined by the slide brilliance and lyrical honesty of her partner, Phil Edgeley. Trudy and Phil are great friends and supporters of BluesAngels, so this may be a night of interesting crosspollination and song hiving. Their new album, ‘One Plus One Equals Three’, was so named after repeated comments from audiences that they couldn’t believe so much sound could come from just two people. The album features strikingly original material

and their shows are drenched in power and dynamics, soul and sensitivity. Arriving back in Australia on August 25 from their fourth tour of Big Sky Country in the USA, the Hotel Gosford show is bound to bring it all back home. Legendary singersongwriter, roots musicologist, Mark Lucas, in his review of Trudy and Phil, described their music as ranging “…from dust-blown work songs to gospel-tinged country blues…universal experience at the same time deeply rooted in their own cultural understanding…”. It will be a night of

New friends New adventures

Join scouts

For information call 1800 SCOUTS (1800 726 887) or go to www.scouts.com.au

TO DONATE GO TO SALVOS.ORG.AU/SAFE

songs to remember with BluesAngels’ songster, harmonica wiz Tom Flood’s equally eclectic blues compendium rubbing shoulders with Phil’s British Delta blues and Trudy’s Islander stories as they cook up a mess of musical flavours, laced with camaraderie and irony, in the ever-pleasant buzz of old Coast friends, good food and swift service that characterises the wonderful and free institution, Hotel Gosford First Saturdays Blues, Jazz and Roots. Media release, Aug 23, 2016 Tom Flood, First Saturday Blues, Jazz and Roots

NEWS

Page 16 - Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 6 Share

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

New Brisbane Water map helps fund marine rescue

Tender let to improve water purity tender from Zinfra Pty Ltd has been accepted by Central Coast Council for the design and construction of a Permanent Powdered Activated Carbon (PAC) Plant at Balance Tanks for the Somersby Water Treatment Plant.

The Somersby Water Treatment Plant was built in two stages in 1971 and 1986 and can treat water from Mangrove Creek Dam or Mooney Mooney Dam. The plant has a maximum supply capacity of 144 million litres per day or 1,666 litres per second (58 Olympic swimming pools per day). The plant produces water 365 days a year and operators attend the site every day. It uses conventional water treatment including flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, pH correction, disinfestation and fluoridation. A report to the August 24 ordinary meeting of Central Coast Council said the aim of the PAC project was to provide an effective barrier against organic contaminants such as algal toxins and taste and odour compounds and to provide emergency treatment for organic pollutants, such as pesticides, if required. “The current treatment plant does not provide sufficient safeguard against these contaminants,” the report said. The contract was assessed as high risk and identified risk factors

included: the potential for a toxic blue green algal outbreak in a dam; underdosing of PAC resulting in ineffective water treatment; or the dosing lime with high pH could increase cell lysing which could increase toxin potential and may cause water quality issues. “The proposed PAC system will help to maintain the quality, safety and security of Council’s potable water supply,” the report said. “The Somersby PAC project was identified as a high priority project by the former Joint Water Project Review Team (JWPRT) and should proceed as planned,” it said. “The recommended tender proposal conformed to all commercial and technical requirements. “The recommended tenderer provided a welldeveloped methodology for the project including good understanding of the works and the test management system to meet Council’s requirements,” the report said. The tender was advertised in the Sydney Morning Herald and Tenderlink on April 26 and locally on April 27, but not in this newspaper.

The invitation documents called for lump sum tenders, based on a detailed specification. A non-mandatory pretender meeting was held on site on May 6 to allow tenderers to become familiar with site conditions. Three submissions were received from: Aquatec Maxcon Pty Ltd; Dioxide Pacific Pty Ltd; and Zinfra Pty Ltd. All submissions were assessed. According to the report to council, sufficient funds were allocated for this contract within the current year’s capital works program. It is anticipated that the works will be available to be put into service by February 28, 2017. Plant was expected to be constructed before the next summer to minimise risk of water quality issues. The Tender Evaluation Report remained confidential as it contained commercial information of a confidential nature. Its value has been kept secret from ratepayers and losing tenderers. Agenda item 2.4, Aug 24, 2016 Central Coast Council ordinary meeting

YOUR SPONSORSHIP CAN CHANGE A DISADVANTAGED CHILD’S LIFE 069 Y.COM.AU

1 in 10 Australian children are living in disadvantage*. They don’t have the basics they need for their education such as the right uniform, bag or even books. By sponsoring an Australian child today you will give them the essentials they need to succeed at school. *Australian Bureau of Statistics (2013).

*Australian Bureau of Statistics (2013).

CALL 1800 024 069 THESMITHFAMILY.COM.AU

arine Rescue Central Coast has released an updated fourcolour map of the local waterway, Brisbane Water.

This up-to-date Guide to Brisbane Water is laminated for protection whilst in use on a boat. The map details all the current navigation marks, lights and channels, and in particular, the ocean bar at Little Box Head. Included are all public launching ramps, public jetties and public mooring locations. It will help recreational boaties and fishermen safely navigate the many tricky channels on and around Brisbane Water. It will assist visitors locate restaurants with docks and it includes all marinas and fuel locations as well as other safety information for those using Brisbane Water. The new map is available from the Marine Rescue Base at the end of Kurrawa Ave, Point Clare, and at many popular boating, bait and fishing shops on the Coast. The Guide is a must for all safety conscious boaties. Unit Commander, Mr Roger Palmer, said: “This map is great value for just five dollars and would make

a handy gift item for Father’s Day. “You should buy two, one for home and one for the boat.” All map purchases will

help keep Marine Rescue Central Coast afloat. Media release, Aug 18, 2016 Ron Cole, Marine Rescue Central Coast

Live From 5 returns in October

he wine and food festival, Live From 5, will be back at Kibble Park from October 7.

Live From 5 kicks off at 5pm each night, and finishes at 8pm. The festival will feature chilled out entertainment and some vendors of delicious food.

ReviveR Bar will be bringing along some great wines and local beers. Live From 5 returns for these dates: October 7, October 21, November 4, November 18 and

December 2. Media alert, 16 Aug 2016 Gosford Business Improvement District

August 25, 2016 - Page 17 Share

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

NEWS

Archdeacon Fr Rod Bower responds with a celebration of diversity ather Rod Bower, the Anglican Archdeacon of the Central Coast, will hold a celebration of diversity on Sunday, August 28, in the form of an Interfaith Service at Christ Church in Mann St, Gosford.

Fr Bower’s normal Sunday service was intruded upon on Sunday, August 14 by members of the far-right Party of Freedom who were dressed as Muslims. “We wish to honour all the wonderful expressions of solidarity following the intrusion two weeks ago,” Fr Bower said. “Please join us for a celebration of diversity,” he said. “People of all faiths and none are welcome. “We have had little time to organise this event so we are relying on a spirit of generosity to make it all come together but perhaps that’s just as it should be,” he said. Following the Christ Church Gosford intrusion, NSW Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism, Ms Sophie Cotsis, called on the NSW Government to implement an action plan to combat

the rising tide of far-right race-hate groups and recent racist attacks across NSW. “There is no excuse for storming a Church and interrupting a service,” Ms Cotsis said. “The people behind this outrageous attack should feel the full force of the law for their outrageous acts,” she said. The NSW Minister for Multiculturalism, Mr John Ajaka also spoke out against the “storming” of the Gosford Anglican Church. The Anglican Central Coast Archdeacon, Fr Rod Bower, was delivering his weekly sermon when the church was entered by the group of right-wing protestors dressed up as Muslims. Mr Ajaka said: “Let’s be absolutely clear, these people aren’t patriots; they are absolute morons. “My thoughts are

with the members of the congregation who were understandably upset or distressed by these idiots storming their church,” he said. “Incidents like this are a timely reminder that we cannot take our harmonious and diverse community for granted. “We need to speak up and speak out against this sort of behaviour if we are going to protect our harmonious multicultural community,” Mr Ajaka said. Media release, Aug 15, 2016 Maegan Sykes, office of Sophie Cotsis Media statement, Aug 15, 2016 Julian Crowley, office of John Ajaka Facebook message, Aug 22, 2016 Fr Rod Bower, Anglican Church Gosford

Theatre wins Best Technical Support Award aycock Street Community Theatre beat Star City, Hope Estate, South Sydney Juniors and two other major Sydney clubs to win the Best Technical Support Award at the 2016 Australian Entertainment ‘MO’ Awards.

The ‘MO’ Awards are known world-wide as one of the most respected trophies in Australian show business. Council’s Arts and Entertainment Coordinator, Mr Chris King, along with the theatre’s Operations Team Leader, Mr Dean Harrington, proudly accepted the award at a star-studded ceremony in Sydney on Wednesday, August 17. “We’re thrilled with the win, which recognised Laycock Street Community Theatre as providing the highest standard of technical support in lighting and sound across the

industry,” Mr King said. “Given the very tough competition we were up against, our talented team is especially honoured that their expertise and hard work has been acknowledged as part of these awards. “We always knew the theatre had one of the best technical teams in the country and this award, which is one of the highest honours the Australian entertainment industry presents, certainly confirms it,” he said. In 2015, council invested $150,000 on a new state-ofthe-art sound system at the

theatre. “The Theatre’s sound equipment now matches the sound quality found in many of Australia’s top entertainment venues,” Mr King said. The theatre hosts over 250 performances each year across a wide variety of genres from musicals, rock concerts, dramas and comedy acts, through to corporate events, film presentations and many other community events. Media release, Aug 18, 2016 Chris King, Laycock Street Community Theatre

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 Central Coast Council, 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

August 16, 2016

Your independent community newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369

Issue 98

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

Wallarah 2 seen as a threat on many levels

First stage of Magenta Shared Pathway completed

Approval sought to use Mackenzie Reserve for five events a year

Member for Wyong and NSW Shadow Minister for the Central Coast, Mr David Harris, will speak at a Water Not Coal meeting to be held at the Blue Haven

The ﬁrst stage in the long awaited missing link of the Coast’s shared pathway network has now opened and local cyclists are ready to give it a workout.

Budgewoi Holiday Park has applied to Central Coast Council to use Mackenzie Reserve for up to ﬁve events per year for the next ﬁve years.

Warnervale M1 service centre closed for repairs

Major expansion proposed for RSL Lifecare Village at Canton Beach

Berkeley Vale service station seeks approval to alter intersection

The Caltex M1 Southbound service centre near Warnervale will be closed for up to 72 hours from August 16, to enable road repairs to be completed.

A $1.6 million development application is currently on exhibition to convert 28 existing serviced apartments at Lakefront Retirement Village into 15 independent living units.

An amended application for a $2.5 million, 24-hour service station and Oporto on Tumbi Creek Rd at Berkeley Vale is currently on exhibition.

Proposed Buddhist Temple only attracts 12 submissions

Minister too busy to meet angry Kangy Angy residents

Temporary foster carers sought

Australia to what was Barnardos The closing date for Contrary public submissions on the reported in Issue 97 of Wyong Hunter Central Coast Unit proposed Buddhist Temple at Regional Chronicle, the NSW is currently looking for Warren Rd, Warnervale, has Minister for Transport, Mr temporary foster carers for passed, and 12 submissions Andrew Constance, has not children aged 5 and under, in have been lodged with agreed to meet with Kangy the former Wyong Shire. Central Coast Council Angy residents affected by The full articles and more can be seen on our website www.CentralCoastNews.net

e Frkeeone! Ta

Edition 400

22 August 2016

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

Peninsula fuel prices comparable with Coast

Residents gather for action on roads

Chamber calls for Ocean Beach masterplan

A survey of fuel prices has shown Peninsula prices are comparable with the rest of the Coast.

More than 70 residents from Empire Bay and Bensville attended the inaugural meeting of the Empire Bay and Districts Roads Action Group to participate in a

The Peninsula Chamber of Commerce has renewed calls for the preparation of a Foreshore Masterplan for the beachfront between Ocean Beach and Umina Beach surf

Administrator calls for urgent Brisbane Ave report

Vets hold memorial service

Local anglers support research program

A report on the former Gosford Council’s land sale strategy is to be prepared as a matter of urgency and placed on the agenda for the Central Coast Council meeting scheduled for Gosford on September 28

The Vietnam Veterans Peacekeepers and Peacemakers Association of Australia’s Central Coast Sub-Branch held a memorial service to mark the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan and Vietnam

Anglers on the Peninsula could be some of the ﬁrst ﬁshermen in the state to record their recreational catch data for the Department of Primary Industries.

Property prices could increase with tunnel Chamber

Peninsula excluded from disability inclusion talks

The Peninsula Chamber of Commerce has stated that the NorthConnex road tunnel will be a “game changer” in providing access to the Woy Woy Peninsula from the Sydney CBD and Western

Expressions of Interest to be part of a Disability Inclusion Reference Group will close on August 25.

Cake stalls and community talks The Killcare-Wagstaffe Rural Fire Brigade has had a busy month with its regular cake stall and Fire in the Home community talks.

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

FORUM

Page 18 - Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 6 Share

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

Point Clare students need RMS protection

Pt Frederick will never be the same again

Children and parents are forced to walk down the middle of Scott St in Pt Clare due to the lack of proper traffic measures at the local public school

Scott St congestion at Point Clare Public School pick up time is unmanageable

n August 2014, just before school pick up, two cars collided along Brisbane Water Dve in Point Clare.

Peninsula Community Access Edition 395

News

FORUM In this instance, houses run along the Barrenjoey Rd school boundary, meaning there is not even the obligatory ‘side entrance’. Anyone driving to Sydney will know Knox Grammar has a 40km zone along the Pacific Hwy, yet its main gate is in Woodville Ave. Currently Point Clare students access the school by either Takari Ave or Scott St. Scott St residents have been lobbying council for years to make the road safer by providing footpaths as well as kerb and guttering. Currently the lack of these basic services means parents walk their children on a very busy road. When it rains, they are met with a level of water akin to the Nile. Heading north, there are no footpaths on the bends along either side of Brisbane Water Dve between Lorraine and Tania Dve. There is no footpath along either side of Brisbane Water Dve between Tania Dve and Koolinda Ave. The first appearance of a footpath is in front of the Orana Retirement Village, so why would parents want to

Peninsula Community Access

Phone 4325 7369 Fax 4321 0940

14 June 2016

Edition 397

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Mr Scot MacDonald, has said the changes would support local fishers and ensure the supply of locally caught, high quality seafood continued into the future. However, fisherman Mr Dane Van Der Neut said the opposite was true and he believed the changes could be the death knell for local operators. He said at least four of six operators in Patonga were under threat. Mr Van Der Neut said he had been fishing for a living for 10 years and his father had been working in the industry out of Patonga for over 40 years. “He spent the past three decades fighting for his job through consecutive governments,” he said. Mr Van Der Neut said the latest NSW Government reform package was about corporatising the industry and targeting export markets. Mr MacDonald said the key changes would see the NSW Government investing in fishing businesses and providing local fishers with the tools to better manage their business and ensure what is caught continues to be done so sustainably. “The changes will provide more certainty and support for fishers to invest in their businesses, and cement the future of the commercial fishing industry for years to come,” he said. Mr Van Der Neut, who fishes Hawkesbury River squid and Broken Bay school prawns, said estuary prawn trawl fishers have been given until July 2017 to raise their minimum shareholding to 200 or they will not be able to access their fisheries. “There is no guarantee that those shares will be available. “We have been given no guarantee of any access at all because, in 2019, a committee will

we may have to do it all over again and the difference will be the Government in 2019 won’t need new regulations to make the changes, they will already be in place.” “My belief is it is all about export and I feel what is happening is other countries overseas want our product to be on their tables and I don’t blame them because we have the best seafood. “But the consumer is going to lose if they don’t wake up and do something about it. “Commercial fishermen per electorate are in minute numbers so we don’t stand a chance politically so we need to tell the consumers to tell their MPs to look after our seafood. Edition 396 “In 2017 we won’t know how many commercial fishers will be endorsed because we don’t know how many shares are available. “There are only two fishers in Patonga as we speak with enough shares. “So if the shares are available we might see those existing fishers continue, that is of course if they can access the funds to buy those shares because what this will do is increase the share price beyond our range.” According to Mr MacDonald, Anne Charlton, Labor the new program will givecandidate fishers for Robertson the option to grow their business or choose to exit the industry “through a range of supportive measures Peninsula Election including: low-rate loans; grants Promise for retraining or for independent business advice; subsidies for buyers and sellers of shares; or fixed payments of $20,000 for fishingupgrades business buyouts.” Road The NSW Government has also Stage 2 of Foreshore Project extended itsEttalong cap on management fees. Satellite Primary Care facility Assistance is also available for Scoping study Woy Woy to M1 link fishing cooperatives. The youth NSW programs Governmentand will PCYC Umina also invest $400,000 as part of Blackspot Funding Killcare a campaign to promote NSW caught seafood as sustainable Wi Fi at train stations and continuous mobile and fresh and work with industry coverage forancommute to Sydney to implement origin- labelling scheme for cooked seafood across Footnotes: the state.

Peninsula Community Access

Patonga commercial ﬁsherman Mr Dane Van Der Neut on Broken Bay

be established to determine how many boats should be left fishing,” he said. “There are different issues with different governments,” he said. “Labor Governments are predominantly green, whereas the Liberal and National Governments are more about corporatising, removing the smaller operators who support the local communities and turning them into larger businesses, moving them into larger ports and starting to work on export deals.” According to Mr Van Der Neut, the latest NSW Government reforms “were asked for by a minority group in the industry who wanted to link their shares to the amount they could catch. “Some of that minority group had good intentions, they wanted to buy more shares and run more traps or more nets. “Ultimately what happened is the process got hijacked by a smaller minority group who had been buying up shares for years.” He said the industry was now split between active fishers and “latent endorsements” who may hold a certain class of shares (such as for crab pots) but are not actively fishing. He said the NSW Government has used the catch history of active fishermen to come up with its caps on kilos allowed to be caught per

day. “Then they’ve redistributed the efforts of those active fishers in a Communist way over all the shares in a share class so now the active fisher’s shares have a lot less value,” he said. Mr Van Der Neut uses the example of a five-member family who operated as a combine. Their combined catch in the last year was 25 tonne of mud crabs. Under the new rules their quota has been capped at 1400kg per fisher or a combined quote of seven tonne which means their business is no longer sustainable. If that family is forced to sell its shares and exit the industry, there’s nothing stopping someone with a latent endorsement from buying up their shares and then profiting from the demise of the active fishers. “At this point of time, we import 87 per cent of the fish products we eat but I will be shocked if in 10 years’ time you will be able to purchase locally caught seafood. “This sort of reform has already happened in the lobster industry in NSW where you already have catch shares linked to a quota. “I have already read reports from places like Columbia and smaller fishers are forced out of the industry through increased prices and after that it gets consolidated. “When governments start to talk about sustainability we are talking

Ne rail commuters free wiﬁ

Government is returned.

Election promises tabulated

on key projects for the Peninsula during the election campaign. The

election

promise

table

Our election coverage, including candidate proﬁles, general information about the Robertson electorate, the location of polling booths as well as information from the parties begins on page 8.

and build telecommunications infrastructure to improve the lives of one in four of the adult workforce who commute long distances by train each day,” Ms Wicks said. More than 30 kilometres of rail between Wyong and Hornsby are black spots where commuters currently face little or no mobile data coverage, according to Ms Wicks. The Coalition would invest $12 million to provide continuous intrain mobile coverage along the rail corridor between Wyong and Sydney as well as wiﬁ at each train station. “This will improve the lives of thousands of Peninsula residents who leave home before dawn each day and return after dark,” said Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull. “It will make work time more productive, enhance leisure time and help families and friends connect,” Mr Turnbull said. “And it’s happening because local Member Lucy Wicks, after spending hundreds of hours talking to commuters, told me this was one of the most practical things we could do for families on the Central

News ews

The Peninsula is becoming the granny ﬂat capital of the Central Coast, according to Peninsula Chamber of Commerce president Mr Matthew Wales.

$939,379 will be spent on improving Murray St, Booker Bay

Council milks Peninsula

Phone 4325 7369 Fax 4321 0940

THIS ISSUE contains 59 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info

(above) lists pledges made by both major parties since the election was called. The table allows readers a list to keep track of which promises have been kept by the winning party after the election.

$438,5549 will be spent on Ettalong’s Ferry Rd Wharf

A total of $543,707 will be on improvements to Springwood and maintained to meet the NSW The Peninsula will receive $540 million in services and $183 less than five per cent million in infrastructure – a total spent on the ongoing Cockle Bay St, Umina, between Albion St and Crown Lands requirement of a 30 per cent net profit by June 30 each Lagoon St. of the new Central Coast expenditure of $724 million across sewerage project. The progressive reconstruction year. Wharf safety improvement Council budget for capital the Central Coast. The Brisbane Water Floodplain Total income, however, is works will be undertaken at Ferry of the intersection at Woy Woy Rd expenditure, despite expected to be only $598 million, Rd Wharf in Ettalong including the and Banyo Close Horsfield Bay will Risk Management Plan Action representing 15 per cent of with $556 million in council income replacement of deck, pylons and continue. Plan should be completed by the council’s population. The total project cost is December 1, according to the from rates and charges and the fenders for $438,549. The budget includes a total of like, and $42 million from grants. The council will improve $810,000 with $675,000 from operational plan. $7.79 million in capital projects The current first phase of the Budgeted spending has sporting field drainage at Rogers Roads to Recovery government for the Peninsula, but only $3.61 been focused on roads and Park ground 2 and 3 in Woy Woy funding and council budgeting Central Coast Council is the million – less than half – comes drainage, water and sewerage, which will cost $400,000. $135,000. “merger period” which will end from council revenue. In other measures for the when councillors are elected in Another capital works project waste management, waterways The majority comes from and playgrounds and sporting earmarked for the Peninsula will Peninsula, the operational September 2017, the operational government grants. fields, according to the council’s be the final capping of the Woy plan undertakes to identify an plan said. Outside the Peninsula, the administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds. management and During the merger period the Woy tip external cells with clay or alternative council contributes more than The budget included funds for geo-textile to meet Environment operations plan for the Peninsula administrator, Mr Reynolds, and $3.35 for every dollar of grant road and drainage upgrades at Protection Authority requirements Theatre to increase future usage chief executive officer, Mr Rob money spent on capital projects. and community engagement. Noble, are expected to ensure Horsfield Bay and Umina and the at a cost of $350,000. The council contribution to upgrade of Umina’s McEvoy Oval. The performance measure is that the council is able to maintain Works will also be undertaken Peninsula projects represents less The budget and operational on Mt Ettalong Rd from Sylvania that the Peninsula Theatre will have seamless service delivery to the than one per cent of its consolidated plan priorities for the Peninsula Rd towards Berrina Crescent improved business operations and community. income of $556 million. They are also expected to were set by the former Gosford for a total of $420,853, of which increased usage by June 2017. At the same time, the council Council. A disability inclusion action plan embrace opportunities to improve $229,853 will come from council expects Peninsula ratepayers will is also to be developed by the end services and infrastructure while Reviews will be undertaken coffers. Ms Wicks the commitment Group p offi officers cers in June in an a be paying moresaid in rates, with many during the next 12 months to bring together and building on The McEvoy Oval upgrade is of 2016-17 along with a Positive bringing was a an game-changer which than would operation to crack d do down on paying increase greater strengths of staff, systems, t thousands of the plan “into greater alignment another large Peninsula capital Aging Plan and an Aboriginal the compliance pliance ance within the “e “estuary “est infldirectly ation (seebenefi separate report). Development and Reconciliation strategies and to represent the Central Coast works project. people every day. general g neral al fishery” sstructures. off Patonga. Patonga The council budget does not Council”. The “The community, staffcommerci and It will include the replacement Plan implemented to facilitate is a income major, from innovative 36-year-old ar-old commercial comme l show“This anticipated the partners are supposed the amenities building, the former Gosford Council’s otherfisherman “This may result in a change to of commitment from the Turnbull man was found in possession posse io Peninsula,. to be engaged in planning and Government will meanpays more actions, projects and programs,” improvements to the car park and Aboriginal Employment Strategy. of 44 live Eastern te Rock Lobste Lobsters However, if which the Peninsula The council also expects to implementing change size during the sporting field surface. the operational plan said. of our hard-working and nd 12 2 prohibited mulloway,” mullo rates, charges and othercommuters council period through information The total cost will be $756,000 achieve 85 per cent direct expense merger It is unknown whether those can stay connected Mr Andrews Andre drews sa said. income at the averagefor perlonger capitaon reviews and changes would result with $220,000 from council funding recovery from the Peninsula and involvement. thefor daily which can be “He e also admitted dmitted to oversetting o overse g rate thecommute, council area, it would The aims to ensure “ethical,iis in more or less infrastructure and $536,000 from the federal Leisure Centre while providing to five hour hisplan meshing nets, ets, whic which s a bea four contributing $76 round milliontriptoto low-cost services and programs to openseparate and accountable government. Sydney or Newcastle,” Mrs Wicks funding for the Peninsula. ate offence cegovernance as E Estuary Estua council coffers. and administration. The $1 million progressive the community. The progressive construction said. General al Fishers are prohibited proh te The 2016-17 budget and of Murray St, Booker Bay, is the reconstruction of Umina’s Lone Operational Plan 2016-17 It also aims for 75 per cent of The $12 commitment from m retaining Eas Eastern Rock operational planmillion were adopted at largest capital works item in the Pine Ave will be advanced with leisure centre users to be satisfied Central Coast CouncilRock expected general to leverage Lobster bster caught Jackie in meshi meshing nets,” nets Reporter: Pearson anwas extraordinary meetingan operational plan for the Peninsula. $180,000 of council funds spent on in the level of service and quality $4 million he e said. d Photos: Noel Fisher ofadditional the council held atinvestment Wyong The work, from Eastern Rd to the project between Haynes Ave of facilities. from chambers the NSW on Government, Ms “This is fisherman herman has breached breached breac d council June 29. The Patonga Caravan and Peninsula rise Wicks said.and budget will deliver Flathead Rd, will cost the council and Ocean Beach Rd. five regulations fiv ulations of th the rates Act, inclu in clud ding including The plan Camping area is to be managed Another $180,000 will be spent $939,379 in 2016-17. expected There would be an expression possessing essing illegally tak- Page sh4 and an and taken fish of interest process for mobile THIS ISSUE contains 68 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info network providers to bid for the funding. “A re-elected Turnbull Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Coalition will work with the NSW Phone: 4325 7369 Government to provide in-kind assistance to deliver the wifi Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 and improved mobile coverage, E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net facilitating access to land along the Website: www.centralcoastnews.net rail corridor and helping facilitate planning approvals for new infrastructure,” Ms Wicks said.

and an nd 10 years y yea ars s im iimprisonment mprisonment and up $44,000 t $44,0 to $44 44,000 0 in n fines. “Stealing “Stea “Stealin S aling ng g fish and black marketing, m arketin arketing,, as arketing as well as damage to fish h habit hab bitats tats ats ts a rre serious problems habitats are impact thatt ca ttha can im mpa mpa act on the sustainability of o our ur fish h stoc sto stock s ks across NSW. stocks “We We e encou enc en nco ourage anyone who encourage sees see es illega ilillegal ega gal al fish hing activity to report shing it to t their th heir nearest n nea are est Fisheries office, phon ph p hone ne our ou h o otline or make an phone hotline online onlin nline ne report,” repo rreport,,” said s Mr Andrews. C Co omme ommerc erci rci ciia ial fishers in the Commercial rregion gion were we w e re rreminded em minded to adhere to the fi fishing shing g rreg egu ulations for Eastern regulations Rock Rock ck k Lo Lobste Lobster ste ers e rs s and estuary fish Lobsters specie pecies. cies. es species. Media Me ia a release, 19 Jul 2016 Hamling, Mel Hamli Ham amlin lin ng, NSW Department n of o Primary Industries

Media release, 23 Jun 2016, Tim Sowden, Ofﬁ ﬁce of Lucy Wicks

Labor promises major infrastructure upgrades pgrades The Peninsula could see major infrastructure upgrades if Labor was elected to government, according to Labor’s Candidate for Robertson, Ms Anne Charlton. Ms Charlton has announced a $60 million roads package. She said the Peninsula would get the most beneﬁt from the Roads Rescue Package, with more than 40 roads in Woy Woy,

Umina, Ettalong and Booker Bay funded under a Labor Government compared with the Liberal’s commitment of $2.75 million for just three roads: one in Umina and two in Booker Bay. “This announcement is proof of Labor’s commitment to not only improving infrastructure on the Peninsula but also creating jobs to drive the economy for the next generation,” Ms Charlton said. “In three years, all the Liberals have done is cut the ribbon on

roads that Labor funded. “Lucy Wicks has not listened to the concerns of locals about the state of their roads and only came up with $2.75 million for Peninsula roads,” she added. According to Ms Charlton, the commitment by Labor recognised the neglect of important issues that the people of the Peninsula have endured at the hands of successive Liberal representatives at local, state and federal levels. “Labor will ﬁx what has now

become a patchwork of badly maintained roads,” Ms Charlton said. “This significant investment will keep motorists, cyclists and pedestrians safe. “The flood-prone Peninsula is beset by a backlog of legacy roadworks further exacerbating safety problems and congestion in the area. “These issues must be fixed and only Labor will take action on the Peninsula to grow jobs and the

economy, to improve the efficient movement of small business, to meet tourist expectations, boost the local economy, and keep our pedestrians moving safely around our beautiful suburbs. “Only Labor is listening to the people of Robertson to make first,”” investments that put people first Ms Charlton concluded. Media release, 21 Jun 2016 Rhys Zorro, Australian Labor Party

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

Frkeee one!

Edition 399

8 August 2016

11 July 2016

Seized Eastern Rock Lobsters

At the same time, during the past two years, it has experienced a medium density development slowdown, he said. 25 July 2016 Mr Wales said onerous mediumdensity development control plans were the reason for the trend. He said the evidence was that council had reported no increase in Section 94 contributions during that period. “Most unit developments on the Peninsula are from older approvals before the Development Control Plans were changed for medium density requirements,” Mr Wales said. He said he believed investors were finding it more lucrative to build granny flats than to build units for sale. According to Mr Wales, granny flats on the Peninsula were generating investment returns of between five and six per cent. In most locations a home on the Peninsula with a granny flat would achieve a sale price of around $800,000, Mr Wales said. High demand for rental

The Bullion St car park

Prices collected by Mr Rod Munson of Ettalong have provided a comparison of Peninsula priceswith the lowest prices available on the Coast and in Newcastle and Sydney. The most expensive fuel on the Central Coast was found in Woy Woy at Shell and BP with E10 costing 119.9 cents per litre, 16 cents more per litre than Woolworths Umina. Woolworths Umina and Caltex in Blackwall did have some of the

the option of doing the whole of the car parking underground and then building three handsome towers on the site,” he said. “Or they may decide to put parking in one area and then build two mixed use towers towards the West St end of the ISSUE land.” THIS contains ns The closing date for expressions of interest is September 16, to give prospective purchasers the opportunity to view the land, work out affordability and work with planning consultants and council representatives to put a proposal forward. Mr Martin said he was very optimistic about the current attitude of the new Central Coast Council. “They are displaying a very futuristic attitude that is a 100 degree turn around on what we had ﬁve or 10 years ago. “They are starting to speak the right language. “The way the council is approaching the future is that we have got to move forward to mobilise all centres on the Peninsula. “We can’t be dogmatic and the council is wanting to see nice developments for the area,” he said.

New safety warnings are difﬁcult to miss when using the rail underpass

Rail underpass re-opened The Woy W Woy Road rail underp underpass re-opened on Augus August 1, following the compl completion of emergency repair works by Sydney Trains over the last three month months.

For sale: Bullion St car park Th Bullion St car park in The Umina is for sale. U Expressions of interest have been called for the 0.53 hectares be of land between Bullion St and Al Alfred St. Described by Wilsons Estate Ag Agency at Woy Woy as: “A la landmark opportunity in the Umina CB CBD”, the land is zoned B2 for “m “mixed use” which means it can be de developed for a mix of commercial an residential purposes under the and 20 2014 Gosford Local Environment Pl Plan. Wilsons selling agent Mr Jim M Martin said the council had the co community’s interests at heart by pu putting a “positive covenant” on th land to ensure that any new the de development included 160 public ca spaces. car Mr Martin said the impetus be behind council’s decision to sell the la land for development was coming fro from the NSW Government’s vis vision for the Central Coast over th next 20 years. the “The NSW Department of Pl Planning released a document ab about the rapid increase in po population that is going to occur be between Sydney and Newcastle ov the next 20 years,” Mr Martin over said. “It will be one of the most popular residential corridors in Australia where people will want to live and that will increase the

A survey of fuel prices has shown Peninsula prices are comparable with the rest of the Coast.

did have its down side, according to Mr Wales. It was possible to construct a granny plan without lodging a development application with ncil under State Environmental council nning Policy (Affordable Rental Planning sing) 2009. Housing) By providing a granny flat that ld be deemed to be affordable would sing, all that was required housing, was a complying development ficate, which meant no council certifi lvement. involvement. The need for a development ication could be triggered if application the person building the granny flat ded to remove a tree or put in needed nage, Mr Wales said. drainage, The granny flat tenants put ssure on local roads, town pressure tres, centres, infrastructure and enities but the development “did amenities not put a single cent into council ers”, he said. coffers”, A granny flat was not rated arately, the council did not separately, n any Section 94 contributions earn m its development and the from eloper did not have to provide developer any parking, he said. As a snapshot, applications for 20 granny flats on the Peninsula e determined during July 2016. were That’s around 240 additional llings on the Peninsula per dwellings

Edition 400

22 August 2016

Peninsula fuel prices comparable with Coast

Peninsula becoming ‘granny ﬂat capital’, amber says Chamber

about the amount of fish we take out of the ocean. “That is the worst type of management we can do. “The public does not understand that every time you have a shower, wash up, wash clothes that have micro plastics in them, that all goes in the drain and into fish habitat so Lucy Wicks, Liberal and incumbent Federal while we are restricting what we Member for Robertson can take out of the water we are still impacting on fish productivity. “Commercial fishing is one of the only user groups of the marine Promises 2016 environment that have a fishery Candidates management strategy underpinned Anne Charlton Lucy Wicks by environmental impact studies. “We’ve got all that. Liberal Labor “We also have the tick of $60 million* $2.75 million sustainability. “The only thing we don’t have $2.5 million the tick for is export which is a $2 million good thing from my point of view because it keeps seafood in the $500,000 local community.” $1.2 million** According to Mr Van Der Neut around six commercial fishers are $60 million# still operating out of Patonga and most are sole traders. “My dad got shares a long time $12 million^ ago because he was in business pre-dating any reform. “With most businesses you can *Funding to be shared between Robertson and Dobell but predominantly Robertson Media release, 31 May 2016 make an educated gamble on the Hannah Eves, offi of ** Unspecified share of funding force Umina from statewide allocation business, on what you are buying, Scot MacDonald of funding for2016 Peninsula from statewide allocation there are no guarantees out of this. # Unspecified share Interview, 7 Jun Dane Van Der Neut, Woy Woy “It is just a gamble that we will ^ To be shared between all Central Coast train stations from Woy Woy to Wyong and all mobile blackspots along be buying more or less guaranteed rail corridor Reporter: Jackie Pearson access until 2019 and in 2019

Ofﬁce: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 Both Liberal and Labor E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Parties have been making Website: www.centralcoastnews.net promises to spend money

Email, Aug 19, 2016 Tracey Hawkins Budge, Point Clare

Frkeee one!

News Phone 4325 7369 Fax 4321 0940

Local fishing operators may close with law changes Peninsula residents wanting to buy local seafood from local retailers may soon not be able to do so, as changes to commercial fishing in NSW cut in, according to a Patonga fisherman from a family with more than 40 years in the industry.

risk their children’s lives by walking them to school on non-existent paths? Opponents of a 40km zone may well say that these kids can walk along the bike track which snakes its way behind Fagan Park, past the Squadron and along the train line to Aldi. But then the kids have to walk back along Brisbane Water Dve and still try to cross Takari Ave to get into school grounds. A set of traffic lights in front of the school on Brisbane Water Dve would allow students to walk to school safely, lessening the need for parents/carers to drive their children to school. This would allow the existing southbound and northbound bus stops in front of the school to be utilised in a safe manner. A 40km zone would decrease the risk to all pedestrians at two busy times of the day. RMS has stated that they will soon conduct a review of the appropriateness of a 40km Zone at Point Clare. For everyone’s sake, let us hope they do not use the front gate scenario as their only measure.

Sydney Sydn Trains ﬁnished constru constructing protection columns around the rail bridge’s support structur structures and installing new, 2.5

69 articles artic cle es - Read Read more mor news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info Ofﬁce: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

40 0

Both cars ended up in the front fence of Point Clare Public School. This incident highlighted what residents, school and community groups have been saying for years, that there needs to be a 40km zone along this stretch of Brisbane Water Drive. However, despite a 2012 comprehensive traffic study carried out by members of Point Clare’s School Council, the 2014 car accident, letters to RMS, the now defunct Gosford Council as well as State and Local politicians, Brisbane Water Dve remains 60kms at school drop off and pick up times. The sticking point, it seems, is the lack of a ‘front gate’’, even though we have examples of other schools on the Coast, notably East Gosford Public School, that has its front gate on Webb St but still manages to have a 40km zone on the Central Coast Hwy. The concession here is that East Gosford Public School has a small side entrance onto the Central Coast Hwy. Check out Ettalong Public School. The school’s gate is in Karingi St yet nearby Barrenjoey Rd has a 40km zone.

Prices gathered by Rod Munson on August 13 at midday and from comparethemarket and NRMA on August 15

Residents of Empire Bay gathered to discuss key infrastructure issues

Website, 14 Jul 2016 Realcommercial.com.au Interview, 19 Jul 2016 Jim martin, Wilsons Real Estate Woy Woy Reporter: Jackie Pearson

www.centralcoastnewspapers.com

A free free ne newsp newspaper w ape wsp aperr with withh in in-depth Peninsula Community news!

hen is a house a home?

When are homes a part of a neighbourhood? When do neighbourhoods become communities? How does a community have recourse to protecting the homes and houses in the neighborhood to maintain the character of the community? There are over 100 submissions from the families living in the area bounded by Duke St, York St, Frederick St and Albany St, protesting the DA proposals to build The Three Towers. This is a set of three, five storey towers, with 101 units, ranging from studio apartments to three bedroom units. These structures impose themselves in this area with the pretext that living here will “Revitalise the Gosford CBD”. How is this so? Already there are units (called The Albany) being constructed on the corner of Albany and York St. There are DAs submitted for Lynn apartment blocks and others in the pipeline. In all, there will be over 300 more residences in the area. Can you imagine the changes and the process involved in this project? Can you visualise the impact on the current residences? The objections listed cover many issues including: street parking and access; traffic congestion, especially at morning and afternoon peak periods; and, pedestrian and school traffic safety (St Edwards and Gosford East Primary

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 School are in the vicinity). Residential impacts include access to light, solar power, overshadowing, views, noise levels and privacy Other objections include changes to the micro climate (access to the summer north easterly breeze) and tree and vegetation removal. The character of the area is principally low level residential housing for families. This, no doubt, will become elevated block apartments for urban commuters keen to join the Central Coast Highway to make their way up or down the M1. Now, how do you get onto the Central Coast Highway? The multi-million dollar upgrade of the Frederick St lights is the only change to infrastructure in the area. Over 42,000 vehicles pass out and in along this road each day. The access can only be left at Albany St, you have limited time at the lights in Frederick St and Masons Pde can often be a nightmare. This is the infrastructure, yet the developer makes a case that it would not be a

problem. It seems that neither the developer nor the council consider DAs for large unit blocks in aggregate. Each application makes a case for its impact and not the cumulative impact. And how about this attitude in correspondence between the unidentified developer and the real estate agent acting on his behalf: “As discussed, our previous offers to purchase (name withheld) property have been rejected despite the fact that we have offered above market prices to purchase. “I am sure you have discussed the benefits of selling now rather than later, and what options we could provide to accommodate him in a new development.” And then: “Please approach (name withheld) with what will be our last offer before submitting a DA to Gosford City Council. “We are flexible and will work … to accommodate his preference ... another arrangement, possibly exchanging property for an agreed some (sum) in the new development, we are happy to talk.” Maybe the resident likes his home and likes his location and is a part of the neighbourhood and the community that he has lived in for the past 25 years. Such actions and methods bring to mind the impact of white settlement on the traditional owners of this land. How far have we come? Email, Aug 18, 2016 Lesley and Bruce Forbes, Point Frederick

Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 - Page 19 Co SShare

Man arrested following pursuit

man was charged following a police pursuit on the Central Coast on Wednesday, August 10.

At about 9.45am, police from the Brisbane Water Target Action Group, were patrolling the Pacific Hwy at Wyoming when they observed a silver Holden Commodore allegedly driving erratically. A pursuit was engaged when the driver of the Holden allegedly failed to stop for police. The Holden allegedly collided with another vehicle and continued into Maidens Brush Rd where it struck a gutter and deflated a tyre. Two men in the Holden ran into nearby bushland.

One man was arrested after a short foot pursuit but a search for the second man failed to locate him. A subsequent search of the vehicle allegedly located cash, mobile phones and other property which was secured for forensic analysis. A 25-year-old man driving the Holden was taken to Gosford Police Station. He was charged with several offences including, drive while disqualified,

police pursuit – not stop (Skye’s Law), drive manner dangerous, fail to exchange details, and resist arrest. The man was refused bail and appeared at Gosford Local Court on August 11. Following further inquiries, police arrested a 46-year-old man at Wyoming that afternoon. He was taken to Gosford Police Station but later released without charge. Investigations were continuing. Media release, Aug 11, 2016 NSW Police Media

Six hour siege results in arrest man wanted on two outstanding warrants has been charged following a police operation in West Gosford on August 16.

Just before 8:40am on Tuesday morning, officers from Brisbane Waters LAC, with the assistance of officers from the Tactical Operations Unit and Police Negotiators, attended a unit block on Donnison St, West Gosford, to arrest a man wanted on two outstanding

warrants. Following negotiations, the 41 year old man was arrested around 2:30pm. The man was taken to Gosford Police Station where he was charged with

the outstanding warrants. He was refused bail and appeared at Gosford Local Court on August 17. No one was injured during the incident. Media Release, Aug 17, 2016 NSW Police Media

Pursuit led to drug related arrest man has been charged following a pursuit in Gosford on Thursday, August 18.

At about 4:00pm, police attempted to pull over a Holden Commodore on Hill St, when it is alleged the driver failed to stop. A police pursuit ensued to Range Rd, where police arrested the driver, a 34-year-old man. Following a search of the man and the vehicle, police will allege they found a substance believed to

be methylamphetamine, cannabis, a knife, digital scales, lighters and a baseball bat. The man was arrested and taken to Gosford Police Station where he was charged with driving disqualified, police pursuit, possess prohibited drug,

and carry cutting weapon upon apprehension. He was bail refused to appear at Gosford Local Court on Friday, August 19. The passenger was also arrested and has been released pending further inquiries. Media release, Aug 19, 2016 NSW Police media

Critical incident is a mystery critical incident investigation was launched after a man was injured under non-suspicious circumstances on the night of Wednesday, August 10.

Just before 10:00pm, police were called to a unit on Teal Cl at Green Point, following reports that a man had stabbed himself with a knife. The 41-year-old man suffered a self-inflicted injury. Police at the scene attempted to subdue him, and he was taken by NSW Ambulance Paramedics to Gosford Hospital in a serious condition. A critical incident may arise where a person dies

Anyone with information about these incidents should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or is seriously injured in an incident involving a level of police interaction. A critical investigation

team from Tuggerah Lakes Local Area Command was to investigate all circumstances surrounding the incident, which is normal police practice. The investigation was to be subject to an independent review, as are all critical incident investigations. Media release, Aug 11, 2016 NSW Police Media Media Policy, March 2016 Part 12, Critical Incidents and Deaths NSW Police Force

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

ON THE BEAT

Ron Purdue found guilty and sentenced to jail M

r Ronald John Purdue of Gosford was found guilty in Gosford Local Court on August 11 of entering inclosed land without lawful excuse and possessing housebreaking implements.

In another matter, Mr Purdue pleaded guilty to shoplifting to the value of under $2,000. For the charge of entering inclosed land without lawful excuse, Mr Purdue was ordered to pay a fine of $400. For possessing housebreaking implements, Mr Purdue was sentenced to eight months imprisonment, dated from August 5, with a non-parole period of five months. Mr Purdue was to be released to supervised parole on January 4, 2017. He has lodged an appeal against his sentence in the Gosford District Court. His appeal is listed for first mention in the Gosford District Court on August 25. He was sentenced to five months imprisonment for the guilty plea of shoplifting to the value of under $2,000.

In sentencing, Local Court Magistrate, Bruce Williams, told the court he had no hesitation in his sentencing, as Mr Purdue already had a 39 page record of which the majority had been dishonesty cases. “You are the master of your own destiny,” Magistrate Williams told Mr Purdue. On March 2, police arrived at the then-construction site of the Audi Alto dealership on the corner of Henry Parry Dve and Pemell St, North Gosford, at 1:15am, after receiving a call of suspected trespassing. Mr Purdue was arrested shortly after police arrived at the scene, when he was found within the grounds of a gated unit complex adjacent to the Audi Alto dealership. Upon his arrest, police found a pair of leather gloves

and a box cutter inside a rubbish bin within close proximity to Mr Purdue, in the unit complex. Mr Purdue was searched upon arrest and found to have a torch on his person. The court heard that at 6:00am the following morning, construction supervisor Mr Terry Jones, arrived on site and discovered a black duffle bag containing a torch, pliers and wire cutters. Mr Purdue told the court on the night of his arrest he was out ‘scrapping’ furniture with a friend and did not enter the Audi Alto dealership construction site. He maintained he was not in possession of a pair of leather gloves or a box cutter on the night of his arrest. Court notes, Aug 11, 2016 Jasmine Gearie, journalist

PREMIUM MUSHROOM COMPOST GET YOUR GARDEN READY FOR SPRING! DELIVERED

$60 deal gives you: • 12 blocks of mushroom compost • Free delivery Peninsula - Gosford + a freshly picked bag of mushrooms FOR THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER receive one additional block

OR PICK UP Varying quantity deals available - 167 Blackwall Road, Woy Woy

Margin’s Mushrooms Farm: 4341 3003 Home: 4344 2468 www.marginsmushrooms.com.au

HEALTH

Page 20 - Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 Share

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

Suicide alertness 800-space car park included in hospital development for everyone workshop

he approved $368 million Gosford Hospital upgrade was one of the largest election infrastructure commitments made outside Sydney in the last NSW State Election, according to the Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Mr Scot MacDonald.

In an adjournment speech in the NSW Legislative Council on August 9, Mr MacDonald said Gosford had a reputation for delivering world-class care. “But we know that those standards are harder to maintain with aging buildings and dated assets. “Health infrastructure spending had grown from $917 million in 2010-11 to almost $1.6 billion in 201617”, he said. “The Gosford Hospital redevelopment is certainly challenging,” Mr MacDonald told the Legislative Council. “The land footprint is constrained; it cannot easily expand, therefore existing assets have to be rebuilt or

niting Care Mental Health will present a suicide alertness for everyone Safe Talk Erina Fair on September 10.

An artist's view of the redeveloped Gosford Hospital

new buildings constructed as the health services continue,” he said. The scope of the works being undertaken at Gosford would deliver: a new emergency department; a new intensive care unit; enhanced operating theatre capacity; new cardiovascular services; new maternity services; expanded paediatric services; new coronary care unit and inpatient beds; new medical imaging and nuclear medicine facilities; a new psychiatric care centre;

expanded cancer services; a new main entrance; significant additional inpatient beds including rehabilitation and geriatric services; and clinical and non-clinical support services. “Possibly one of the most anticipated improvements will be additional car parking,” Mr MacDonald said. “Any visit to the hospital would have staff and the public pointing out the dire shortage of parking,” he said. “By working with NSW Treasury, a new

800-space car park is being constructed.” In May, following an inspection of the site, NSW Premier, Mr Mike Baird, announced the project was under budget and ahead of schedule. “Therefore the state was in a position to divert $20 million of savings into a Central Coast Medical School and Research Centre,” Mr MacDonald said. The centre will be collocated in the new 11-storey building and will bring 750 extra jobs to the Coast, Mr MacDonald said in his adjournment speech. “This is a terrific example of State and Federal Governments collaborating with the tertiary sector to introduce world-class research that ultimately will benefit not just the families of the Coast but everyone across the nation,” he said. “Gosford Hospital modernisation will be completed by 2019 with the main tower ahead of schedule and on track to be completed by the second half of 2018. “This outstanding work is to the credit of the contractor, Lendlease, the staff of the hospital and, in no small part, the board and senior management of the Central Coast Local Health District.” Mr MacDonald acknowledged the contribution of the district’s former CEO, Mr Matt Hanrahan who has recently moved on after 22 years with Gosford Hospital and the local district health organisation. “Matt deserves significant credit for progressing the project, consulting the community and clinical staff and presenting a sound business case for the upgrade to the minister and treasury,” Mr MacDonald said. Email, Aug 10, 2016 Mitchell Cutting, office of Scot MacDonald

Safe Talk is a half-day alertness workshop that prepares participants to become a suicide-alert helper. Most people with thoughts of suicide don’t truly want to die, but are struggling with the pain in their lives. Through their words and actions, they invite help to stay alive. Safe Talk trained helpers can recognise these invitations and take action by connecting them with life-saving help. Key topics of the program include: TALK steps (Tell, Ask, Listen and Keep Safe)

for suicide alter helpers; presentations and guidance from a LivingWorks registered trainer; and, access to support from a local community resource person. Key skills covered include: learning to become a suicide alert helper; recognising invitations that someone may be thinking about suicide; connecting with people at risk of suicide; and, hands on skills practice and development. Media release, Aug 12, 2016 Jacqueline Stokes, Uniting Care

New dental practice at Mangrove Mountain angrove Mountain Dental Centre principal dentist, Mr Michael Kotis, decided to open the Centre after falling in love with the Mangrove Mountain area.

Mr Kotis and his wife Ms Kay Kotis, sold their Sydney practice and relocated to Mt White after concluding that this was the area they wished to spend the rest of their lives in. The practice provides an extensive range of services, from regular treatments such as examinations, fillings and cleaning, to more specialised services such as dental implants,

orthodontics, dentures and sleep apnoea/snoring treatment. The practice has a strong focus on preventive care and children’s dental health. The dental centre is open six days a week and is situated at Mangrove Mountain. Email, Aug 19, 2016 Michael Kotis, Mangrove Dental

Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 - Page 21 SShare

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

HEALTH

Marathon run to raise funds for children’s disease

Vicarious Velodrama raises funds for Special Education Centre group of local cycling enthusiasts has donated a hand cycle worth $4,000 and three tricycles to the Special Education Centre at Henry Kendall High School.

For the past five years of the Tour de France, the local cycling enthusiasts have organised a competition based around the famous endurance event to raise money to support local charities. Recipients to date have included the Aspect School at Terrigal and both campuses of Glenvale

School. In 2016, the Henry Kendall Special Education Centre has benefited from the fund raising efforts of the team at Vicarious Velodrama. The group reached its goal to raise enough funds to purchase tricycles and bicycles for the special education students at Henry

Kendall High School. The school thanked the group’s fundraising organisers, Mr Graham Judd and Mr Kel Butcher along with the 23 sponsors who supported the competition. Newsletter, Aug 12, 2016 Natalie Wearne, Henry Kendall High School Isla and Jude Donnell

osford resident, Mr Greg Hawker, along with Mr Dean Tonks from Tumbi Umbi, will run along the Great Ocean Rd in September to raise money for children suffering from the fatal childhood condition Sanfilippo Syndrome.

Free hearing checks ational Hearing Care is encouraging Gosford City residents to take advantage of free hearing checks available at its Erina and Gosford clinics during Hearing Awareness Week which started on August, 21.

Managing Director of National Hearing Care, Mr Michael Smith, said: “An increasing number of studies show that individuals with hearing loss who identify and treat the issue early are more likely to adapt quickly to the increased sound they

will hear with a hearing aid. “Despite the fact that hearing loss is a serious health issue, most Australians wait an average of seven years to act on their hearing loss,” Mr Smith said. “The longer hearing loss

is left untreated, the harder it can be to retrain the brain to recognise sounds that become available with a hearing device,” Mr Smith said. Media release, Aug 18, 2016 Fiona Mcgill, PPR

Their run will raise funds for research by the Sanfilippo Children’s Foundation. Both men will be running 28kms in the ultramarathon along remote beaches, cliff tops and into the bush hinterland in a relay team as part of the Sanfilippo 1000 Big Feet for Little Feet challenge. Mr Hawker is the cousin of Megan Donnell (nee Maack), who three years ago launched the Sanfilippo Children’s Foundation following the

shock diagnosis of her two children, Isla (7) and Jude (5) Donnell with Sanfilippo Syndrome. Without treatment, Sanfilippo causes slow and progressive brain damage and will rob Isla and Jude and other Australian children of life in their teenage years. There is currently no effective treatment or cure for Sanfilippo, however clinical trials for treatment are taking place around the world, and thanks to the work of the Foundation, a clinical trial using an

experimental gene therapy technique developed by a US biotech is scheduled to take place in Australia. It will give Australian children the chance to participate, and if it works – a chance at life. There are 60 participants (15 teams) participating in the event on Sunday, September 3. Media release, Aug 18, 2016 Ingrid Maack, Sanfilippo Children’s Foundation

ARE YOU STRUGGLING WITH? ☐ Cancer ☐ Sleep Issues ☐ Respiratory Issues ☐ Lack of Concentration ☐ Allergies / Asthma ☐ Chronic Sinus Issues

☐ Aches & Pains ☐ Depression ☐ Chronic Fatigue ☐ Circulation Issues ☐ Stress / Anxiety ☐ Obesity / Diabetes

Dr. John Tickell Best Selling Author Dr. Tickell, cancer survivor brings an UNMISSABLE EVENT that will provide you with the necessary knowledge and tools to improve your health.

Gosford RSL Club (Allow 2 hours) Monday 12 September: 10am or 2pm or 7pm Tuesday 13 September: 10am or 2pm or 7pm Wednesday 14 September: 10am or 2pm or 7pm Heal Yourself Seminars - $5 door entry

www.medicaldeviceacademy.com.au

Sponsored by Central Coast Newspaper

EDUCATION

Page 22 - Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 Share

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

Gosford Public School wins State Band Championships osford Public School hit a triumphant note on August 21 when it won the NSW State Band Championships.

It was a stunning performance at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, Penrith. Adjudicator, Mr Nigel Weeks, said the standard this year was incredible. “I just can’t believe the standard of the junior bands, I’m really impressed. “I am just blown away,” Mr Weeks said. Gosford won with 190 points, just ahead of The Kings School, Parramatta on 185, in the Under 13 Division 2 championship. Mr Weeks noted said that Gosford Public School’s Band had an excellent set up. That set up includes, conductor, Mr David

Dallinger, co-ordinator, Ms Esther See and school principal, Mr John Anderson, as well as dozens of keen students. Mr Weeks noticed there were around 40 students in Gosford’s band. “It was a large amount of players with a real mixture of ability for the conductor to control. “The conductor did really well getting you to sound as an ensemble. “He chose a program playing to your strengths,” Mr Weeks said. The program began with John O’Reilly’s Trumpets of Seville, in which Mr Weeks noted the trumpets’ excellence. “Then you played a very, very difficult section from the Phantom of the Opera, with different changes in key and pace. “The percussion section was excellent. “You made a really good

effort with the Phantom,” he added. The band finished with Grease excerpts that saw a packed concert hall toetapping in their seats. Mr Dallinger said the band was amazing on the day. “They always find an extra gear for performances and on the day they left the notes behind and just made music. “They played for each other and were brilliant. “They’re a fantastic group of young musicians and it is my honour to work with them each week,” Mr Dallinger said. But success was not overnight. It started a decade ago, when former Gosford-based teacher, Ms Sue Moore, saw students declining offers at Gosford Public because of a lack of band opportunities. She began building up the band, and was joined by

volunteer parent Ms Esther See. Ms See, who plays flute and baritone horn, remains as the band co-ordinator. “Having a co-ordinator gives the band someone who can focus on it and who is not a classroom teacher,” Ms See said. Principal Anderson congratulated Mr Dallinger and Ms See. “It’s a credit to them and the children involved,” he said. “It’s about opportunity. “To be able to compete with the State’s best, at their level, is far beyond what they’ve had in the past.” The students were tutored by Mr Dallinger (reeds), Ms Emma Jones (flute), Ms Pauline Ainsworth (brass) and Mr Joseph Smith (percussion). Media release, Aug 22, 2016 Nicole Taylor, Gosford Public School

Students to hear about the results of their fundraising s Mary Rajca will visit Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Primary School, Wyoming, on August 31, to speak to the students about the work of the Sisters of Mercy in the shanty town of Candela, in Lima, Peru.

Our Lady of the Rosary has supported Ms Rajca and Candela in the past. Their fundraising efforts have resulted in wonderful improvements. There will be a sale of the beautiful handicrafts that

women of Lima have made. The prices range from $2-$10. All funds raised go back to the women who have made the goods. This money is used by the women to buy basic

necessities to make life easier for families. Newsletter, Aug 17, 2016 Frank Cohen, Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Primary School

LEAVE A GIFT IN YOUR WILL TO ASSISTANCE DOGS AUSTRALIA AND YOU CAN HELP IMPROVE THE LIVES OF PEOPLE LIVING WITH DISABILITIES

For more information about leaving a gift in your Will please contact: Free call: 1800 688 364 Assistance Dogs Australia PO Box 503 Surry Hills, NSW 2010 www.assistancedogs.org.au

Mr Dave Dallinger holding the trophy up for the school band to see Photo: Deon Smit

Students’ film makes NSW finals

hree budding student filmmakers from Gosford High School are in the running for the people’s choice award in Interrelate’s NSW Film Festival for High Schools.

Year 9 students Jasmin Walker, Kuringai Paton and Layaleeta Teml-Towzel were one group out of seven finalists to have their short film screened at the Australian Film Television and Radio School in Sydney on August 12. The competition invited students to create a two to three minute film about cyberbullying, with the footage professionally edited by competition sponsor Filmpond.

The Gosford students’ entry, ‘Cause and Effect’, explored the flow-on effects that bullying can have, even years later. “One in five Australians aged eight to 17 experiences cyberbullying each year and Australia has been ranked number one in the world for bullying on social networks,” said Interrelate CEO, Ms Patricia Occelli. “By utilising today’s social media platforms, these students’ stories and

ideas have the potential to reach and influence thousands of young people across Australia and the world,” she said. To watch the entry from Gosford and vote for your favourite film, head to www. facebook.com/Interrelate before the poll closes on August 29. Media release, Aug 17, 2016 Frances Phipps, Interrelate

Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 - Page 23 SShare

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

‘The Meeting of the Kendalls’ brought much joy

Driving schools react to increased road toll n light of the recent spate of road tragedies on the Central Coast, parents of Learner drivers are encouraged to utilise the free government funded program, Keys2Drive, to help get their children ready for full responsibility behind the wheel when they become Provisional drivers.

Keys2Drive is the most extensive novice driver training and road safety initiative in Australia’s history, and aims to improve the quality and quantity of supervised learning by empowering the Learner’s driving as opposed to controlling it. “I have been teaching driving for around 12 years now, and have been very impressed how well the Keys2drive program on the Central Coast has been received,” Awesome Driving School’s, Mr Jerry van Wyk said. “We have had some horrific car crashes and deaths on the Central Coast and being the largest driving school on the Central Coast, we know a lot of our students have been greatly impacted by these, as have many parents. “We have conducted

well over 2,500 Keys2Drive lessons over the years. “Parents have learned so much through the program and are especially challenged by the concept of the learner having to become a safe and competent driver by the learners taking responsibility for their driving. “Keys2Drive challenges learners to become P Plate safe versus just passing a driving test,” Mr van Wyk said. Meanwhile, The Academy of Road Safety launched their Defensive Driving Course on August 14, in the Mt Penang Parklands in Kariong. According to the Academy, recent reports highlighted the Central Coast as a centre for serious road accidents in 2016. This year the Coast’s road death toll sits at 12,

meaning at least two people have already died on Central Coast roads every month. The Academy of Road Safety took these statistics seriously and wants to help people become more equipped, safer drivers, through their new course. The benefits of this course will assist to decrease road fatalities and accidents on Central Coast roads, as drivers will be more prepared for emergency situations. The academy is expected to announce at least six more dates for its new course for Central Coast drivers this year. Media release, Aug 11, 2016 Ronak Shah, Academy of Road Safety Media release, Aug 11, 2016 Jerry van Wyk, Awesome Driving School

Three TAFE students to compete in National WorldSkills competition

he Hunter and Central Coast regions will be well represented at the WorldSkills Australia National Competition.

Twenty Hunter TAFE competitors will be amongst the 500 apprentices, trainees and students from all corners of Australia who will compete for the coveted title of ‘National Champion’ in over 50 skill categories, including Vehicle Painting, Bricklaying, Hairdressing, Programming, Cookery and Welding. Competing in the National Competition is part of the ultimate journey to greatness for these young competitors. Their journey began at the WorldSkills Australia Regional Competitions held in 31 regions across the country, including the Hunter and Central Coast regions. The impressive performance at the regional

level by the competitors has secured their place at the National Competition, where the pressure will be on as they undertake three days of intensive competition. Wamberal’s, Mr Matthew Hurley, will be taking on the nation’s best in the Carpentry section. 21 year old Mr Hurley developed an interest in carpentry from his father, who is an industrial arts high school teacher. After graduating from Terrigal High, he was initially considering studying architecture or engineering at university but decided instead on carpentry. “I wanted the tactile experience. “To be able to follow through with a design and have something tangible to show for it,” he said.

EDUCATION

Mr Hurley now works for a Central Coast construction company, working on architecturally-designed residential homes. Mr Hurley will represent the Central Coast when he competes at the National WorldSkills competition in Melbourne this October. Other Central Coast competitors representing Hunter TAFE are: Mr Alexander Brown from Copacabana who will be competing in the Programming category and Mr David McGrath from Erina who is a contender in the Wall and Tiling category. Media release, Aug 19, 2016 Christine Armstrong, Hunter TAFE

The Fletcher Gallery ART CLASSES + WORKSHOPS AT SPRINGFIELD PRIVATE TUITION FOR DETAILS CONTACT ZOE FLETCHER www.zoefletcher.com 4324 2801 or 0497 766 522 zoefletcher_1@hotmail.com

Alicia Kostalas (second from left) with Henry Kendall Retirement Village residents

ifferent generations of music lovers from Henry Kendall High School and Henry Kendall Retirement Village came together on Wednesday, August 10 at the school’s Special Education Cafe.

The event was organised by Henry Kendall year 11 student, Alicia Kostalas, who said it was important to recognise the lessons high school students could learn from older generations. “I wanted to give back to the older generations, because they’re the ones who have already lived through all the things we’ll go through and it’s a great way to learn from each other,” Ms Kostalas said. “I think a lot of high schoolers don’t know how to talk to older generations, and maybe that’s true for the elderly too, they don’t know how to talk to us,” she said. “That’s why I called this ‘The Meeting of the Kendalls’, because it’s about connecting our generations and finding our common interests to break

those barriers,” she said. The showcase, which included performances from all year groups, was part of Ms Kostalas’ scholarship studies with Max Potential. “Max Potential is a training program run for high achieving students, and I feel so honoured to be a part of it,” she said. “The aim of Max Potential is to improve your life, but I thought, why should I stop there; why not improve the lives of the community too?” Ms Kostalas said organising the performance as part of her scholarship requirements was just a natural fit. “I like music and I’m doing a two-year, assistant in nursing course, which I’ll finish next year. “I have to do at least one hundred hours of work placement, and I sort of just

ended up doing geriatric care at Gosford Hospital,” she said. “It gave me a new perspective on how difficult it is to care for the elderly, which really fuelled my passion for putting on this showcase,” she said. Having now finished the showcase, which took roughly three months to organise, Ms Kostalas said she was hopeful it would become an annual event at the school. “It was so amazing to see how much it meant to everyone. “I hope we’ll continue to do it next year and into the future. “One woman was so excited that she hugged me and said it was the best concert she’d ever been to.” Email, Aug 12, 2016 Emma Horn, contributor

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

No partner necessary No special clothes - just soft shoes Lively music New dancers welcome

Janice on 4388 2253 Sandra on 4392 8716

$7 per Night Come and join in on the fun!

OUT & ABOUT

Page 24 - Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 Share

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

Plastic Pollution Solutions event well received

97 community initiatives awarded council grants ew shot put circles at West Gosford’s Adcock Park, a music program for people with a disability and the Gosford Language Festival are just some of the 97 successful community initiatives awarded around $375,000 as part of Central Coast Council’s latest grant programs.

Plastic Pollution Solutions attendees at Kariong Eco Garden

lastic Pollution Solutions is touring Australia holding presentations in schools, and Family Trivia Nights in communities, not only to raise awareness and educate the masses on the growing problem of plastic pollution in our oceans, but to enable and empower them to take action.

Plastic Pollution Solutions (PPS) has now held over 100 events through QLD, NSW and VIC and hosted a Family Trivia Night at the Kariong Eco Garden on August 20. Litter and waste has always been a focus for Kariong Eco Garden and the event was seen as a way to not only learn about how plastic pollution impacts both the environment and human health, but also the solutions available to the

community in a fun, family friendly environment. The trivia night involved general knowledge questions for people of all ages plus bonus competitions. A slideshow raising awareness of the plastics issue also ran during the evening while a special competition, ‘Heads and Tails’, gave eyebrow-raising facts about the state of our oceans. PPS also touched on

ways to reduce the amount of plastic pollution entering the marine environment and introduced projects and initiatives that the community can take on to combat the issue. ‘Motion for the Ocean’ provided entertainment on the night. Media release, Aug 8, 2016 John Wiggin, Kariong Eco Garden

FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH

RESIDENT BAND

BLUESANGELS This month’s special guest artist

Phil and Trudy Edgeley

Council’s Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, said he congratulated the successful recipients at a special celebration on August 10. “The variety of community-oriented projects that this latest funding will help local groups, associations and other organisations deliver for the Central Coast is truly remarkable,” Mr Reynolds said. “From upgrades at Wyoming’s Youth Skills Centre and Somersby’s

School of the Arts Hall, through to resurfacing the tennis court at Empire Bay and a bushfire preparation event in Mangrove Mountain, these initiatives will improve the lives and wellbeing of our residents and visitors,” he said. The latest grants cover a number of Council’s key funding program areas including community development and facilities, heritage, recreation, and Indigenous culture. “It was very pleasing to see so many local

community groups come together to celebrate their successful grants as well as share ideas and form valuable networks that I’m sure will lead to even more opportunities and initiatives,” Mr Reynolds said. “But for now, I’m especially looking forward to seeing these latest 97 projects and initiatives come to fruition.” Media release, Aug 11, 2016 Central Coast Council media

Vintage Fair at Point Clare

rinkets, treasures and family trees will be the focus of Point Clare Vintage Fair, ‘The Collectives’.

Vintage Fair, as part of National Family History Month, will have a drop in day on August 30, at the Faircraven Café, where people can learn more about preserving precious keepsakes and their potential value and how to trace their family tree more accurately. For a gold coin donation, those that visit on drop in day can discuss matters of interest with experts on family trees and heirlooms. Genealogist, Ms Lisa Frost-Foster, and Archivists, Mr Alan Tasker and Mr

Mitchell Gordon, will be available on the day to help interested parties with any of their questions about heritage or trinkets.

Media release, Aug 16, 2016 Tracey Honig, Fairhaven Services

with special guests Mañana

NO N OO ONE NE

should have to

ALONE Saturday 10th Sept, 6.30pm

Women of Blues, Jazz & Roots

The Rhythm Hut, Gosford Tickets $15 pre sale I dinner/bar available www.therhythmhut.com.au

ADMIT 1 HUT PASS!!!

SEP 3rd - 7pm till 11pm Please

donate now

salvos.org.au/hope

Use COUPON CODE: GOLDENCROWN TO RECEIVE ONE FREE TICKET WHEN YOU PURCHASE 2 TICKETS TO SEE KING TIDE + MAÑANA. OFFER VALID UNTIL 10.9.16. ONE FREE OFFER PER PERSON/COUPON

Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 - Page 25 SShare

Connor Wink entertains onnor Wink, a young blind musician from Newcastle, was the support act for legendary performer Glenn Shorrock at the Gosford Entertainment Grounds on August 13.

The young singer/song writer entertained the audience with a mixture of covers and original compositions. His ukulele and unique voice had the dinner crowd wanting more with encore requests after his set was complete. Starting on the piano at just six years of age, his blindness did not get in his way and a talent for playing by ear has been a great asset in his musical career. Connor played guitar as well for a while and then discovered the ukulele and has not looked back. Star of the show Glenn Shorrock commented that Connor was “an incredible young man”. Connor spends a lot of his time raising money for children’s charity Variety by busking and donating the money which amounts to thousands of dollars. Event notes, Aug 13, 2016 Noel Fisher, photo journalist

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

OUT & ABOUT

Goodaywang Reserve has volunteer bush care group he Goodaywang Reserve along the Point Clare waterfront now has its own active bush care group.

Bush care volunteers meet monthly and have recently attended Central Coast Council’s Introduction to bush care and Reptile Safety seminars. A supervisor has been appointed by Council and is working with the group. Council recently engaged private sector bush care contractors for three days of intensive weeding in the reserve. The supervisor and volunteers have developed a 12-month bush care plan that complements previous bush care work carried out in the reserve. The plan includes a development of a community engagement component to encourage more bush care volunteers and use of the reserve by the community, such as: the placement of Goodaywang Reserve bush care group on Council’s Bush Care Program web page; better targeting passing user ‘traffic’, and identifying activities for the purpose of wider community awareness and use of the reserve (including engaging local community groups, services, schools and businesses). To this end, the group’s convenor recently attended Council’s Place-Making seminar. Volunteers are also

37a Mann St, Gosford - Tel: 02 4325 3371 www.reviver.net.au - drinks@reviver.net.au

Southern Brunch

Every Sunday 10am - 4pm

Come try the flavours of Southern USA Grits, biscuits, sawmill gravy, fried chicken, waffles and more!

The Goodaywang Reserve, Point Clare looking across the water to Gosford and Pt Frederick engaged with NSW Landcare’s Floating Landcare program (bush

care activities accessed via the waterways), with a view to identifying the additional

bush care needs of the Broadwater. Networking with other

environment focused groups such as the Community Environment Network, Kariong Eco Garden and Umina Community Group is occurring for learning purposes and to identify complementary projects. The Group has also recently commenced study of historical reports and plans to determine if there is opportunity for further community development of the reserve. For example, earlier recommendations proposed more community use of the reserve, as discussed in the Council’s Base Master Plan for Goodaywang Reserve, include installation of motorcyclist/cyclist racks and a play area. Email, Aug 9, 2016 Megan Neale, Goodaywang Bush Care

NOT FOR PROFIT ORGANISATIONS DIRECTORY ARTS & CULTURE

Page 26 - Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 Share

Training support provided 4334 3877

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

Crochet, Computers 4304 7065 Gosford-Narara Neighbourhood Centre School Holiday activities, playgroup, multicultural programs, community activities - Rooms for Hire

Central Coast Prostate Cancer Support Group (Wyong) Meet last Monday Month Toukley RSL Club Homes Ave Toukley 10.00am to 12 noon 4356 9300

4329 4477

www.pcfa.org.au

Green Point Community Centre OOSH cave, exersize classes, school holiday programs, playgroup, arts & craft, room hire, and much more. 4367 7591

Dying with Dignity NSW, Central Coast Working to give those suffering unrelievedly from terminal or incurable illness the legal right to request & receive medical help to die Quarterly Meetings 4369 8053

cvscc@nsservices.com.au

Art Studios Gallery & Cooperative Artworks by members and local artists through solo and group exhibitions and community events. Classes available. 4339 3349 www.artstudioscooperative.org

Central Coast Art Society Lectures, demonstrations and 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

Probus Club of Avoca 10.15am 3rd Mon Avoca Beach Bowling Club www.probussouthpacific.org/ microsites/avocabeach

4382 3372 Seniors Computer Club Central Coast Inc. Classes Mon to Fri for over 50 Basics: Mon , Tues and Thurs 10am to 12noon Different programs every day, 10am - 12noon or 1-3pm Apple-Mac: Mon, Tues, Wed All at Kincumber Neighbourhood Centre 02 4369 5692

publicity@artcentralcoast.asn.au

Central Coast Handweavers, Spinners and Textile Arts Guild Spinning and weaving, patchwork and quilting, felting and other fibre and fabric crafts, community quilting bees - Day and Night Groups 4325 4743 www.cottagecrafts.net.au

Terrigal Wamberal RSL Sub-Branch At Breakers Country Club pension and welfare officers available to assist with DVA compensation claims and benefits Wed & Fri 10am – Midday Meetings 2nd Sat 10am 43842661 rsl@breakerscc.com.au

www.pcfa.org.au

admin@gnnc.com.au

Kariong Neighbourhood Centre Early childhood clinic, free family law advice, active playgroup, computer classes, OOSH services, fitness classes, arts & crafts, over 50’s friendship group, youth group, social groups and many more services. 4340 1724 wwww.knc.net.au

Kincumber Neighbourhood Centre U3A Central Coast Fellowship of • Exercise classes Mature age people are invited • Yoga for adults and children Australian Writers to participate in a wide range of • Community eco garden A friendly and supportive courses to broaden the mind • Room hire group for new and old writers. and make new friends Encouragement and critique • Health support groups 0408 704 701 of work. Workshops and • Counselling www.centralcoast.u3anet.org.au competitions 10am 3rd Sun • After school activities Conference rm. Gosford Hotel 4363 1044 Gosford Gumnuts 4363 2627 www.kincumber.nsw.au Playgroup centralcoastfaw@live.com Parents and children meet Mingaletta Aboriginal COMMUNITY GROUPS socially. Make friends, learn Torres Strait Islander more about parenting. 0 to 5 yrs Corporation Wed - Fri 10am-12noon ABC - “The Friends” A meeting place and referral Gosford Uniting Church Hall Support group for Public hub for education, health, well129 Donnison St Gosford Broadcaster. being and cultural programs 4325 3695 Aims. safeguard ABC’s through consultative services gumnutsguc@gmail.com independence, funding, & and community programs. standards. Meetings through Mon-Fri 9am-4pm Volunteering the year + social afternoons 6 Sydney Ave Umina Central Coast Well-known guest speakers 4342 7515 Refer potential volunteers to 4341 5170 admin@mingaletta.com.au community organisations. www.fabcnsw.org.au Provide support to volunteers Terrigal Fifty Plus Leisure and community organisations. Big Futures in school and Learning Centre Provide training to volunteers mentor program Activities include fitness, yoga, and managers of volunteers Become a volunteer mentor bridge, mahjong, zumba gold, Information sessions “Bridge 2 hrs/ week, Free Training, No line dancing, tai chi, painting, to Volunteering” held regularly. qualifications needed craft and computer classes. 4329 7122 Be a young persons champion Please phone 43845152 for recruit@volcc.org.au 0413 624 529 more info

Gambling Solutions Counsellors provide free, confidential, professional service to gamblers, family and friends. Woy Woy, Kincumber, Gosford, The Entrance. 4344 7992

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 organisation performing at various venues to promote the Welsh culture with 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 have GROW Support Groups fun with music. Follow us on Small friendly groups formed to learn how to overcome anxiety, Facebook - Every Mon 5 - 7pm Kincumber Uniting Church depression and loneliness and 4365 4414 to improve mental health and www.tempoterrific.com well-being. Anonymous, free tempoterrific@live.com and open to all. Weekly at Woy Woy, Bateau Bay and Wyong Tuggerah Lakes Showband 1800 558 268 Play brass instruments, meet www.grow.org.au every Tues & Thurs to rehearse . crowd-pleasing music and play Meals on Wheels at community events Delicious meals delivered free Park Rd Band Hall Join us for a midday meal Tues 7.30pm Thur 6.30pm Help with shopping and 0407 406 669 cooking classes 4363 7111 POLITICAL PARTY Medusa Moves Is a gentle movement class catering for people with Parkinson’s Disease for Parkinsons’s sufferers & over 50s, stretching, guided dance moves 1st & 3rd Tues. The Rhythm Hut Faunce St Gosford 0439 856 554 0417 223 543

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

21 Old Penang Rd Kariong 4362 3139

Central Coast Pension & Welfare Officer Network Group of Volunteers, trained by DVA, to look after servicemen Inner Wheel Club & women. Ourimbah RSL Club of Terrigal 10:30am 2nd Fri - Feb to Nov Share friendship, social activities 4322 1505 as well as fundraising for local, national and international National Parks Association projects. 3rd Mon, 12noon Central Coast Terrigal 50+ leisure centre, Twice weekly bush walks, Duffy Rd Terrigal varying distances and grades of 4369 0302 - 4384 1490 difficulty. Explore, enjoy scenery, terigalinnerwheel@gmail.com fauna, floral, history. Keep fit and make friends. Lions Club of Woy Woy 4389 4423 or 4332 7378 1st and 3rd Mon. Woy Woy Leagues Club Spirituality in the Pub Make new friends and have fun A forum with Q&A and two while serving your community. speakers prompt conversations 0478 959 895 within to encourage dialogue about spirituality. Rotary Club of 1st Tues March to October Gosford North 2nd Tues November Active community minded club. 7.30 to 9pm Many projects focussed on Grange Hotel Wyoming assisting youth. Support our 4328 2596 - 0498 588 261 great projects, get involved with WOMEN’S GROUPS our fun club. Graham Black 0410 509 071, grahamblack@iprimus.com.au BPW Central Coast Empowering women of all ages Rotary Club of in the areas of work, education, Kariong/Somersby well-being and friendship. International service club Monthly dinner meetings and improves lives of communities speaker. in Australia and overseas. Fun- Community transport available filled activities, fellowship and to and from centre friendship breakfasts. Phillip Chris Levis 0438 989 199 House, 21 Old Mount Penang bpwcentralcoast@hotmail.com Rd (opp Shell) - Fri 7:15am www.bpw.com.au/central-coast 4340 4529 kersuebay@philliphouse.com.au Brisbane Water Evening View Club SPECIAL INTEREST Social activities, outings and functions monthly. Brisbane Water Tours, Dinners, Lunches, Caravan Club Theatre/Cinema, fashion located on the Central Coast parades and looking for new members Dinner meeting with guest www.bwcaravanclub.wix.com/bwcc speaker 4th Tues 4344 4363 4325 1688 or 0466 513 600 iiw.au.gosfordnorth@gmail.com

Biz Plus Networking Country Women’s Association Association (CWA) Attention business owners - if Quilting, patchwork, spinning, centralcoast.nsw.greens.org.au you keen to grow your business knitting, crochet and more centralcoastgreens@gmail.com and in the process build 9am-2pm worthwhile relationships, attend ParaQuad Every Fri, Opposite Australian Labor Party a Biz Networking breakfast. Specialist healthcare products Terrigal Bowling Club Ourimbah/ Narara Branch Every Thur 7:15am - 9am delivered to your door, for all 4385 9503 or 4384 3696 Discussion/action community Erina Leagues Club your continence, wound care issues - 3 levels of Government Geoff Neilson and respiratory and nutrition Gosford RSL Niagara Park Primary School network@bizplus.com.au requirements Sub-branch 7.30pm 1st Mon each month Professional Support available Women’s Auxiliary www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.au/ 0410 309 494 CCLC Bridge Club 1300 886 601 Raise money for the welfare of bigfutures kyle.macgregor@hotmail.com Koolewong, Point Clare Duplicate Bridge-partner not www.brightsky.com.au Wyoming veterans and their families. RSL & Tascott Progress required for most sessions. Community Centre Club West Gosford Politics in the Pub HISTORY GROUPS Association Central Coast Central Coast Leagues Club Yoga & Zumba classes, Art 4th Mon 2pm Central Coast Provide resources for Social Group 12.30pm Mon, Tue, Thur, Fri. and Craft classes, Playgroup 4323 7336 Discussion of important political, communication. Special guests, Social contact, Sat 1.30pm Wed 7.15pm Mon Central Coast Family & Vacation Care, Support social, economic, education, community involvement, 4325 9854 entertainment events, new History Society Inc. groups, Book Club, Community Central Coast Women’s and philosophy issues in a non heritage, diversity, education, www.cclcbridgeclub.asn.au Help and advice with your friendships, for 30’s-60’s Garden, Rooms for Hire, Work Health Centre partisan manner - The Grange safety and small business cclcbridgeclub@westnet.com.au family history research. Tue Development Orders, Centrelink Live music, house parties, Counseling, therapeutic and Hotel 4th Thur besides Dec opportunities. to Fri, 930am to 2pm Lions Volunteer hours dinners, BBQs, picnics, social groups, workshops, Point Clare Community Hall Central Coast Cake PUBLIC SPEAKING Community Hall, 8 Russell 4323 7483 trips away etc. domestic violence and abuse Decorators Guild 2nd Thurs Bi Monthly. reception@wyomingcc.org.au Drysdale St, E. Gosford. issues. All services provided by Monthly Meet & Chat Sugarcraft demonstrations 0412 462 218 www.centralcoastfhs.org.au women for women Develop confidence by HEALTH GROUPS 0422 243 101 conversation and lunch 4324 5164 email cco30s@live.com.au 4324 2533 improving your speaking skills. Visitors welcome Wildlife ARC www.cccwhc.com.au Meetings are entertaining and 4th Sat - 10am 50+ leisure and We rescue and care for Brisbane Water Alcoholics Anonymous Central Coast 50+ Singles educational. Learning Centre Gosford Historical Society injured and orphan native meet every Wed 12.30pm Soroptimist International Social Group 4382 6236 • Coach tours • School Someone cares animals. 24hr/day, 7days/ Brisbane Water Invites Ladies & Gents for Brisbane Waters Breakfast lsroe@bigpond.com.au educational tours • Annual Anglican Church week. Come join us. Soroptimists speak for women dinner, dancing - BBQs & Toastmasters Club Street Stalls • Participation 3 Mann St Gosford Gen Meeting 3rd Sun and girls of all nations through socialising each w/e. 8:30am-10:30am Central Coast Lapidary in History Heritage Week 4323 3890 awareness advocacy and Wyoming Community Friendly group monthly 2nd and Last Sat The Hive Club Minerals & Gems Celebration Margaret Pearce action by supporting national programme all areas and Library, Erina Shopping Centre, Maidens Brush Rd Learn silverwork, Cabochons, 4325 2270 Better Hearing Australia and international programs 4396 3640 Centre Faceting, Enamelling, Stone Wyoming at 10am Central Coast 2nd Thur 6:45pm - Breakers 0437 699 366 0459 240 183 Field-trips & fossicking 02 4325 0666 Fellowship of First Hearing loss management 50pssg@gmail.com Country Club, Dover Rd Weekly Workshops Fleeters Central Coast COMMUNITY CENTRES Support and educational group Wamberal 4367 6331 Blue Gum Flat Tues and Thurs 8.30am For anyone interested in early 7 groups across the coast sibrisbanewater@siswp.org Gosford North Probus Club Toastmasters 2.30pm. Thurs 6-10pm Providing practical experience history or early family histories. Meets 4th Tuesday at the Mthly meetings 1st and 3rd 10 Ourimbah Creek Rd Coimmunity Centres Don’t need to be a First Fleeter. and confidence WOWGIRLS Wave Mon 7.15-9.30pm Ourimbah Grange Hotel for more provide the local community Wyong RSL Club Learn the benefits to hearing of Wisdom Inc Ourimbah RSL 4362 2246 with a meeting place and information contact Craig 2nd Sat 10:30am aids WOWGIRLS Wave of Wisdom 4362 7227 hub for groups, services and 43225560 4311 6254 4321 0275 connects women and local Central Coast information. Monthyl meeting 4th www.centralcoast. SERVICE GROUPS businesses around a common MUSIC Soaring Club Inc betterhearingaustralia.org.au Tuesday Grange Hotel theme of well-being. to share Gliding Club, Learn to fly, Gosford 50+ Leisure and 10am wisdom and explore life’s Inner Wheel Club of Instruction FREE to members Learning Centre Central Coast Prostate Brisbane Water Brass potential. Gosford North Inc 14 and up for Training Handicraft, Painting, Knitting, Cancer Support Group Brass Band entertainment Northern Settlement Regular Powwows, WOW Community minded women Flying at Bloodtree Rd Tai Chi, Scrabble, Darts, (Gosford) for the community playing Services - Volunteers Wisdom gatherings, WOW who enjoy fundraising for Mangrove Mountain Thur, Sat, Table Tennis, Indoor Bowls, Meet last Friday Month all types of popular music Volunteers needed for friendly days and WOW courses check local, national and international Sun ( weather permitting) Patchwork, Yoga, Fitness, Terrigal Uniting Church Rehearsal every Tues. visits to the elderly in nursing our website for activities. projects 0412 164 082 Gentle Swimming, Line 380 Terrigal Dre, Terrigal 7.30pm-10pm www.wowgirls.com.au homes. Regular social outings. 0414 635 047 Dancing, Cards, Variety Social, 9.30am to 12 noon info@wowgirls.com.au 0419 274 012 People with a second language www.ccsoaring.com.au 2nd Wed 7pm Womens Group, Zumba, 4367 9600 encouraged to apply.

If you would like your Community Organisation listed here, call us on 4325 7369 or see www.centralcoastnewspapers.com Entries in the Not For Profit Community Organisations Directory are free. However, we require each organisation to subscribe to each newspaper to ensure that someone from that organisation keeps their entry up to date. Australia Post is about to increase their postage rates by over 42% and we can no longer continue to absorb these increases. Subscription rates have therefore needed to be increased from $50 to $75 for 25 editions.

Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 - Page 27 SShare

Gosford Regional Gallery joins 21st century

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

OUT & ABOUT

Mountain Mayhem Billy Cart Derby on again

osford Regional Gallery has launched visitor-friendly multimedia tours.

The bespoke tours lead visitors from one area of the Gallery or Japanese Garden to another, and provide additional information as well as behind the scenes content and videos about current artworks, artists and garden features. Central Coast Council’s Arts and Culture Coordinator, Mr Chris King, said the Gallery had been working hard to increase opportunities for visitors to engage with its changing exhibition program. “Our intuitive multimedia tours are designed to strengthen engagement through interactive experiences,” Mr King said. “Visitors can delve in and out of the tours at their leisure, and tailor the information to suit their own

interests or the available time they have to experience what is on offer. “The multimedia tours are an ideal way for us to use current technology to connect with visitors and ensure the Gallery remains relevant and inclusive. “It also means there is greater accessibility to our exhibitions for people with disabilities, which is an area we are keen to develop further,” he said. Gosford Regional Gallery is one of the first regional galleries in Australia to adopt multimedia tours and devices. Visitors can also download content directly onto their own phone or mobile device using the free Gallery and Garden Tour App from the Appstore or

Googleplay. “Downloading the Gosford Regional Gallery App using our free onsite Wi-Fi means that visitors can continue learning about the artworks and artists even when they have left the Gallery,” Mr King added. “The current tours and App feature exclusive interviews with artist Jocelyn Maughan and reveal personal stories and explanations about her current exhibition ‘An Artist Survey’, which is on at the Gallery until September 4,” Mr King said. Multimedia devices can also be hired for $3 per person. Media release, Aug 22, 2016 Central Coast Council Media

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

The annual Mountain Mayhem Billy Cart Derby will be back this October Photo: Noel Fisher

he annual Mountain Mayhem Billy Cart Derby is back October 29 on Waratah Rd at Mangrove Mountain.

Held in conjunction with Mangrove Mountain and Districts Country Fair, the festivities kick off from 7:30am and the 2015 winner “King of the Hill,” Mr Zach Gallagher, has set the challenge for anyone brave enough to take him on. All sorts are encouraged to get involved with the event with last year’s Derby attracting fathers, sons, grandfathers and grandchildren who all had fun building their carts and racing together.

“We had all sorts of entries last year, from the more traditional timber variety, to those made from left over pram or bicycle parts, and even one made from an old shopping trolley,” Derby spokesperson, Ms Sharon Peruch said. “All the rules and regulations for construction can be found on our Facebook page, along with entry forms. “So what are you waiting for? “It’s only a couple of

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

Thursday, Aug 25 Guide Dog fundraising stall at Wyoming Shopping Centre from 9:00am to 2:00pm

Friday, Aug 26 Moss Ball Planters Workshop at Wyoming Community Centre from 11:00am

weekend, Kids Activities runs till Aug 28

Sunday, Aug 28 Wildrice playing live at Central Coast Leagues Club from 2:00pm Bushwalk and Botanical Photography at Kincumber Mountain Reserve.

Fifty Plus Leisure and Learning Centre from 8:00am to 12:00pm Gosford’s COSS and Land for Wildlife Event at Seymour Pond, Katandra Reserve, Matcham Hall from 1:00pm to 4:00pm BluesAngels and Phil & Trudy Edgeley at Hotel Gosford from 7:00pm

Tuesday, Aug 30 Saturday, Aug 27 Central Coast for Social Justice welcome to our place community dinner with guest speaker Robin de Crespigney author of the award winning The People Smuggler, Gosford Anglican Church, 5:30pm to 9:00pm, rsvp via facebook by Aug 20 The Search Party playing live at Central Coast Leagues Club from 9:00pm Chemical free cleaning workshop at Wyoming Community Centre from 9:30am Narara Ecovillage Open day, Permaculture

Celebrate Family History Month at Vintage Fair, Fairhaven Point Clare from 10:00am to 2:00pm

Monday, Sep 5 Othello by William Shakespeare at Laycock Street Theatre, various times also Sep 6

Thursday, Sep 1 Romeo and Juliet showing at Laycock Street Theatre from 7:30pm

Friday, Sep 2 Triple P Parenting program at Gosford Uniting Church from 10:00am to 12:00pm, runs for 5 weeks Making Twine workshop at Wyoming Community Centre from 11:00am

Saturday, Sep 3 Annual fete at Terrigal

Saturday, Sep 10 Blues on the Mountain, featuring 19Twenty, Mangrove Mountain Memorial Hall from 6:00pm Creative Craft Group will be holding a craft day at Gosford Regional Gallery from 9:30am to 4:00pm

months away, so get your boots on and get building. “There are categories to suit all age groups and we even have a corporate race this year. “So if you have a business to promote, please enter a cart with as much sign writing as you can manage on it. “I hope to see you on the hill,” Ms Peruch concluded. Media release, Aug 22, 2016 Sharon Peruch, Mountain Mayhem Billy Cart Derby

Glenn Shorrock does a solo show

he Panorama Lounge at the Gosford Entertainment grounds hosted Glenn Shorrock, best known as the former front man to the Little River Band (LRB), for a solo show on August 13.

Glenn has been performing both in Australia and overseas for over 40 years and has even recorded in the famous Abbey Road studios next to the Beatles. In addition to LRB, Glenn has had, and still enjoys,

a successful solo career, recently producing new work for release on iTunes later in the year. Working through a back catalogue of his hits such as ‘Needle in a Haystack’, ‘Little Ray of Sunshine’ and

‘Cool Change’ to name just a few, Glenn had the crowd eating out of his hand from the first note. Event notes, Aug 13, 2016 Noel Fisher, Photo Journalist

Different stalls alternate weeks New stalls welcome Live music & pony rides Call Ryan on 0405 416 289 or Margaret on 4374 1255

Monday, Sep 12 Information Workshop on how to stay healthy, Green Point Community Centre

EVERY MONTH ALL WEATHERS 2ND & LAST SUNDAY EACH MONTH

CLASSIFIEDS

Page 28 - Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 Share

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.

GOSFORDCLASSIFIEDS.COM.AU FOR ONLINE CENTRAL COAST CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

156 Mann St Gosford

4324 5569 A Better Picture

Antenna & Digital Installations & Tuning New home specialist Credit cards OK HAYWARD VIDEO All areas Gosford 4323 6367 Woy Woy 4344 4414 Warnervale 1800 244 456 0412 685 555

BOOKKEEPING

ELECTRICIAN

YOUR LOCAL ELECTRICIAN Same day service Guaranteed

FITNESS

Self Defence

Lighting, Power Points, Phone & Data, Fault Finding,

No job too small.

Real solu ons to real threats Krav Maga Proven to work

Seniors Discount.

www.closecombat.com.au

4308 6771 ENTERTAINMENT

BluesAngels Your total acoustic blues/roots package, top to toe, and then some. Minnie the Moocher to Eagle Rock and on into indie roots, beatnik jazz, backhills bluegrass and prog folk. Available as duo, trio or band negotiable for your party, event or venue.

FOR SALE

Daihatsu Terios All Wheel Drive Excellent Condition 220,000km - 5 speed 4+ months rego 5 speed manual, towbar, electric mirrors, MP3 sound system

Registered BAS Agent Member of Institute of Certified Bookkeepers Accredited and experienced with various accounting packages Contact Ken

The Troubadour Folk and Acoustic Music Club

August 27 at 7pm

The THOMPSONS CWA Hall Woy Woy Tickets $12

For all your cleaning needs, commercial and residential:

www.troubadour.org.au

Ph: 0421 493 447

4344 1810

2750 0410 522 070

4382 2817 0419 202 609 Lic 27261c

BUCELLO’S • Residential and Commercial • Interior and Exterior • New Work and Repaints

Free Quotes

All work guaranteed

0410 404 664 PHOTOGRAPHY

CENTRAL COAST EVENT PHOTOGRAPHER corporate – website – events a one stop solution for all your photographic needs

Upright piano. Well loved. Great for beginners. Must arrange pick up. $200 Ph Jackie on 0402 402 295

GARDENING Stump grinding big & small Specialising in tight access Fully insured Free quotes Tree pruning Call Ross 0431 292 110

KITCHENS

Central Coast Bush Dance & Music Association Slightly Off

Want to have a lot of fun, unique music at your next event? Call Leila at 0423 147 797

Quality Laminate Benchtops supplied and seconds for sale

R&J Benchtops

or find us on Facebook

Gosford

www.facebook.com/ SlightlyOffMusic

0456 884 545

Admission $15 incl. supper

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

Enq: 4344 6484

from only $40 4325 7369

www.ccbdma.org for more information

38yrs on the Coast

VALSPIX

0417 657 414

10th Sept Bush Dance with Currawong

Home Maintenance Maintenance Scheduling Colour Scheming

www.valspix.com

www.gosfordbookkeeping.com.au

Experience Folk Music at its best at East Gosford Progress Hall @ 7.30pm Henry Parry Drive

abn 2342 9360 036

ono

4324 2801

Carpet cleaning, window pressure cleaning, house washing, stone floor cleaning, sealing and grout colouring, floor sanding, vinyl floor stripping and cleaning, move out cleans and general cleaning.

CMK Painting and Decorating

Painting Services

tomflood@hotmail.com

CLEANING

PAINTER

Lic number 265652C

DANCE

Combined print and online packages have been created providing further discounts.

have

Love & Lust Adult Shop

ANTENNAS

Private advertisements only cost $33.

See page 2 for contact details. All newspaper advertisements minimum of two weeks’ shelf life.

ADULT SERVICES

0418 600 436 PLASTERERS

Your local plasterer Gyprock plasterboard, small jobs, walls, ceilings and cornices. Over 30 year’s experience. No jobs over $1,000. Ph: Neville 0417 426 254

PLUMBER

YOUR LOCAL PLUMBER Same day service Guaranteed Blocked drains, Leaking taps and toilets, Hot water and all aspects Of pluming drainage and gas fitting. Lic number 265652C

4346 4057 POSITIONS VACANT

Experienced

Tilers wanted! Start Immediately 0439 589 426

Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 - Page 29 SShare

PUBLIC NOTICE

FETE Terrigal Fifty Plus Leisure and Learning Centre Fete Sat 3rd Sept 8.00am - 12.00pm All the usual stalls, all undercover. Sausage sizzle and devonshire teas available

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

SPORT

Three wins and three losses for Gosford Kariong semi finalists

TILING

Terrigal’s Millar Ewin hangs on grimly to Gosford’s Suli Hakalo in the U15(2)s game Photo: Andrew Stark

SEPTIC TANK CLEANING

Tiling Wall & Floor Property Maintenance 0439 589 426

homes2nv@gmail.com

WARD SEPTICS SEPTIC TANK CLEANING SMALL PUMP OUT TRUCK GREAT PUMP OUT RATES

*AND EVEN CHEAPER RATES FOR YOU WITH A NEIGHBOUR

0438 315 514 www.septiccleaning.com.au

Subscribe now and don’t miss an edition Peninsula Community Access

News

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

www.duckscrossing.org/shop Name: Ph:

he first weekend of this season’s Central Coast junior rugby league semi-finals provided Gosford Kariong teams with three wins and three losses across two hectic days of league action played on a dry and dusty Darren Kennedy Oval at Toukley from August 20-21.

Representative back rower, Logan Campbell, was outstanding for the Storm U16(2)s as they overpowered Warnervale 3412 under floodlights, to book a meeting with arch rivals Ourimbah in this weekend’s minor semi-final. Campbell laid on the opening try of the game for prop forward, Toutai Aho, before crossing for two tries of his own in a powerful display. Leading 24-0 at halftime, the Storm were full of confidence. Kyle Young raced over out wide to make it 30, while an unfettered Brayden Habkouk shed his trademark headgear to enjoy an evening of fulsome point scoring. The lanky halfback crossed for a hat-trick of tries and kicked five goals from six attempts, to rack up a personal tally of 22. Joining the U16s in next weekend’s minor semi-finals will be the Gosford U10(2)s and U12(2)s, both of which enjoyed spirited victories. Fighting back from

an early 6-0 deficit, Rod Godoy’s U10s recorded a 3422 victory over Warnervale in an entertaining elimination semi-final. Five of the Storm’s six tries were scored by the designated dummy halves, as the team’s dynamic duo of hyphens; Benji KeeneO’Keefe and Tex DorrattMavin, raced in for three and two tries respectively. Tackling enthusiasts; Matt LeMaistre, Blake Hodge, Tyron Fernandez and Lorenzo Godoy were most conspicuous in nullifying the Bulls around centre field, while U9s tyros, Sunny Mayles and Taye RoyalKeir stepped up and played like seasoned semi-final campaigners, contributing manfully to what was a fine, all-team performance. A dominant opening half helped catapult the Gosford Kariong U12(2)s to an impressive 34-16 win over Blue Haven. Prop forward Jake Sutherland continued his tremendous season when he charged 40 metres through

TUITION - DANCE

WANTED

Email: Address:

Credit Card Number: ___________________/___________________/ ______________________________________/

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

Central Coast Newspapers, PO Box 1056, Gosford NSW 2250

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

Ben Shepherd pulls off a copybook tackle during the U12(2)s big win

Gosford Scottish Country Dancers hold a intermediate class on Wednesdays from 7 to 10 pm at Wyoming It’s an excellent form of exercise which brings men, women and young people together socially, learning new and old dances in a very friendly relaxed atmosphere No experience or partner necessary All ages welcome Cost $7.00 per week Contact Janice on

4388 2253

the meat of the Raiders’ defence to notch the game’s opening try after just two minutes of play. Leading 22-0 at the break, the Storm were in total control and despite leaking three second half tries, were never in any real danger of being overhauled. The season has come to a close for the Storm’s U15(2) s, U14(2)s and U13(2)s, who all suffered defeat during week one of the finals series. The U13s began brightly against Kincumber and scored first when Dylan McKay pounced on a final tackle grubber kick from his five eighth, Jake Martin. The Colts hit back strongly however to lead 10-4 at the break before a controversial no try ruling early in the second half appeared to deflate the Storm while simultaneously energizing their opponents, the Colts galloping away with a fine 26-4 victory.

for good quality Swords, Knives and War memorabilia.

For large collections home visit available

Shop 12 - Ebbtide Mall 155 The Entrance Rd The Entrance

4333 8555

Media release, Aug 22, 2016 Andrew Stark, Gosford Kariong Storm RLFC

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.

• Inspire P/L trading as CUP Computers • Michelle Umback - 2 formerly of Gosford Funky, Terrigal • Modern Asian • Shelley Walker Cuisine, Victoria Street Previously trading as East Gosford Headmasters Hair Design, Park Plaza • AAA Coastal Painting Service, Greg Gosford Sutherland, North • Jessica Davis - A1 Gosford Cleaning Services, Erina • Ezy Homes - Freddies Warehouse, Gosford • Tony Fitzpatrick Central Plaza trading as Futurtek Roofing • Renotek, Tascott

CASH PAID

Gosford had no answer to the impressive Kincumber U14(2)s team, falling 46-4. Riley Seaburn and Liam Jenkins both crossed for four tries with the impressive fullback, Seaburn also kicking six conversions for the Colts. Storm forwards Preston Bierton, Tarren Wargent and Hayden Crampton worked tirelessly, while super sub, Nash Dorratt-Mavin, grabbed Gosford’s lone points early in the second half, when he snuck in behind Kincumber’s outside backs to latch onto a Talon Adams kick. The U15(2)s tried hard against red hot favourites Terrigal before succumbing 30-12. Suli Hakalo was a tower of strength for Gosford. The rugby union representative forward monstering many an unsuspecting Shark in defence, while also contributing two long range tries.

SPORT

Page 30 - Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 Share

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

Lifesavers win several medals at Australian Pool Rescue Championships

Adcock Park based sports unhappy with redevelopment proposals

The Gosford Netball Association fears the concept designs for the new Adcock Park put girls safety at risk From left to right - Charlise Wheeler, Chloe Hoy, Heather Campbell, Skye O'Mara and Rachelle King

he Gold Coast International Aquatic Centre was the venue for the 2016 Australian Pool Rescue Championships over three days from August 5-7.

The national event saw 553 athletes from 63 Clubs compete in 220 events from U12 through to Masters. The aim of pool rescue is to assist in the development of skills for surf lifesavers at a competition level with the opportunity to progress to represent Australia in international competition. The Central Coast has been one of the most consistent areas for the development of Pool Rescue with the success of the Terrigal and Umina Surf Lifesaving Clubs at both State and National level. Following on from a successful NSW State Pool Rescue Championship in July, it was the Terrigal Surf Lifesaving Club’s U13

Girls team that led the way with three Australian Championships, including an Australian Record, plus two silver and a bronze medal. Coached by Ms Rachelle King, the team was anchored by Charlise Wheeler who achieved individual gold in the 100m Obstacle and a silver medal in the 25m Brick Carry. Wheeler then combined with teammates Skye O’Mara, Chloe Hoy and Heather Campbell to win gold in the 4x25m Brick Relay, silver in the 4x50m Obstacle Relay, and bronze in the 4x100m Medley Relay. It was the combination of Wheeler and O’Mara who smashed the 13G 100m

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

25 THU

28 SUN

31 WED

3 SAT

0233 1.30 0828 0.55 1509 1.65 2154 0.53

0504 1.30 1041 0.56 1718 1.73 MON

0003 0.40 0604 1.35 1141 0.53 1813 1.78

0133 0.31 0739 1.47 1320 0.45 1944 1.81

0211 0.29 0819 1.51 1403 0.44 2023 1.78

0119 1.40 0725 0.49 1401 1.64 2033 0.55

26 FRI

0318 0.33 0933 1.54 1522 0.47 2135 1.66

1 THU

4 SUN

0452 0.48 1119 1.53 1725 0.59 WED 2325 1.40

TUE

0349 0.37 1008 1.55 1601 0.50 2210 1.58 0528 0.54 1159 1.51 1815 0.64

SAT

TUE

FRI

5 MON

8 THU

Patient Tow. The girls’ gold, in an Australian record time of 1.09.25, took 2.93 seconds off the previous record for the event set in 2012 by the Umina Team of Jemma Smith and Rachel Wood. In the 45-49 age group, it was again Terrigal’s Paul Lemmon leading the way with four individual gold medals and two team silver and a bronze. In the 50m Manikin Carry, Lemmon set a new world record of 39.96 seconds, beating the previous record of 39.98 seconds held by Georg Guenther (Germany). Media release, Aug 22, 2016 Tony O’Mara, Terrigal

uring a meeting on August 15, concerned sporting codes have described the Central Coast Council’s attitude to the redevelopment of the Adcock Park sporting precinct as an outright attack on women’s sport.

Four codes were represented at the meeting to discuss the proposed redevelopment of Adcock Park and concerns were raised about a lack of consultation in the planning stages, inappropriate design of amenities, problems with parking and access, lack of playing surfaces for the various codes and potential serious child safety concerns. There are upwards of 5,000 netball players, officials and spectators who gather at Gosford Netball Club on a Saturday. The club’s membership base consists of approximately 2,500 female participants, with 1,500 of these being junior members starting from 5 years of age. Secretary of Gosford

Let your community know about: • Weddings • Engagements • Special Birthdays • Special Anniversaries • New Born Babies • Special Achievements

0353 1.27 0935 0.58 1616 1.68 2305 0.47 0052 0.35 0655 1.41 1233 0.49 1900 1.80 0245 0.30 0857 1.53 1444 0.45 2100 1.73 0420 0.42 1043 1.54 1642 0.55 2246 1.49 0009 1.31 0608 0.60 1245 1.48 1912 0.68

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

Send us a photo and information Details on page 2 - 4325 7369

Netball Association, Ms Leanne Phillips, said: “The orientation and layout of the proposed amenities block does not suit young children and may pose a serious safety risk to our young players. “This proposed building design has huge implications for our Association, our competition and how we function. “The new licensing agreement will mean that all codes will be forced to raise fees, and this will impact on our members and our mission to be an inclusive association, providing opportunities for every young girl and woman to get out and enjoy a wonderful sporting experience in her local community.” President of Central Coast Baseball, Mr David Bryant said: “We should have facilities capable of hosting local, regional, national and even international events. “Instead, we are left with a short sighted proposal that will clearly disadvantage sport on the Coast.” “Central Coast Council are putting the cart before the horse.” “With limited space available and a number of codes needing to be accommodated, getting the field layout right is paramount to the success of the re-development,” Central Coast Oztag’s Mr Aaron Heward said. Ms Phillips also said that the Central Coast Touch Association shared the other sporting codes’ concerns. A Gosford City Sports Council spokesperson stated that: “The Sports Council supports the concerns of the stakeholders and would like to remind Central Coast Council that Adcock Park is a regional sporting facility and any reduction in the

capacity and capability of Adcock Park will have an adverse impact on the local community.” Despite the criticism of the Adcock Park redevelopment a Council spokesperson said the concept plans were designed incorporating the individual feedback of six sporting codes that used the existing facility. According to the spokesperson: “Council considers Adcock Park a significant regional facility and aims to incorporate new multipurpose amenities, upgrade sporting fields and improve car parking.” The spokesperson also said that the concept plans reflected a design that the community could share through the breaking down into sections and that safety had been factored into this design, as the design allows for areas and sections to be pedestrianised, lit, locked and closed. The new concept plan replaces the three old amenity buildings, that the Council spokesperson labelled unfit for use, with additional toilets, canteens, storage, club houses, changing rooms, umpire room, balconies and medical room. “Council is committed to delivering a modern facility that caters for all six sporting codes who currently use Adcock Park, which will ultimately benefit the wider community,” the spokesperson concluded. Media Release, Aug 17, 2016 Leanne Phillips, Gosford Netball Association Secretary Media statement, Aug 24, 2016 Central Coast Council Media Adcock Park Concept Plans Version 3 5.5.16 Dilon Luke, journalist

SPORT

Coast Community News - August 25, 2016 - Page 31 SShare

w www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

Avoca Beach celebrates its Olympians voca Beach has emerged as the Coast’s Olympic training ground with several of Australia’s Olympians poised to return to Avoca with the conclusion of the Rio Olympics.

Kayakers, Lachlan Tame and Riley Fitzsimmons, were stand outs for Avoca with Tame securing a bronze medal in the K2 1000m event while Fitzsimmons placed fourth in the final of the K4 1000m. Born in Gosford, Tame who was already a World Championship silver medallist in the K2 1000m, competed in Rio with Gosford born and Gold Coast based, Ken Wallace, to secure the bronze in the K2 1000m. Tame joined the Avoca Surf Club as a five year old and started paddling at age 16. In 2012, Tame made a bet with a friend that he could make the Olympics, and never looked back. Tame first rose to prominence when he won the Australian Open Single Ski Championships in 2011. Tame went on to win the title another three times. Along with his K2 teammate and dual Olympian, Wallace, the pair won gold in the K2 500 (nonOlympic) and silver in the K2 1000 at the 2015 ICF World Championships in Milan. These events took their 2015 ICF World Series medal tally to seven. Tame and Wallace also won silver in the K2 1000m at the 2014 World Championships in Moscow. When away from the water, Tame is a selfemployed builder and Avoca Beach goer. Fitzsimmons debuted on the Australian senior sprint canoe team in 2015. Rio marked Fitzsimmons’ Olympic debut, having earnt

his selection in the 1,000m pool with Olympic partner, Jordan Wood, after their third place performance behind Wallace/Tame and Stewart/ Clear at the selection trials. Also in 2015, Fitzsimmons won two gold and a silver medal at the 2015 Australian Surf Life Saving Championships and took home gold in the K2 1000m race at the canoe sprint World Championships with Wood, in Portugal. Along with his K2 teammate Wood, the duo first showed they were Rio ready when they defeated the 2015 World Championship silver medallists and Olympians, Wallace and Tame, in the first 2016 Grand Prix regatta in West Lakes. Fitzsimmons started Surf Life Saving at age four at his local club, Avoca Beach. He first started kayaking at age 15 and has balanced his lifesaving and kayaking passions ever since. Off the waves, Fitzsimmons is a volunteer lifesaver and is employed as a builder and apprentice carpenter. Avoca’s Jesse Parahi was also a standout for the region making it all the way to the quarter finals of the Rugby Sevens with the rest of the Australian team. Parahi was a key player in helping Australia qualify for the Olympic Games. After a three-month stint playing in the NRL with the West Tigers in early 2016, Parahi returned to the Australian sevens program in April and eventually secured his position in the Rio Team. Parahi grew up playing both rugby league and union.

He stopped playing league at 18 to focus on his sevens career, a move that paid off when he made his international debut in Edinburgh in 2010. Avoca was also represented in the commentators’ box when Avoca Beach Kayak Club Head Coach, Mr Matt Jones, was given a last minute stint as commentator alongside Channel 7’s Mr Brenton Speed. According to the Avoca Kayak Club President, Mr Paul Hutchinson, Mr Speed’s original commentating partner had to return to the country for personal reasons and Mr Jones, who had arrived in Rio only to cheer on Tame and Fitzsimmons, was given the nod as replacement commentator when his name was put forward by members of the kayaking groups present at the games. The Avoca community rallied behind their Olympians coming together at the Avoca Surf Life Saving Club and the Avoca Rugby Club on August 18 and 20, to watch Tame and Fitzsimmons in their respective events. “The atmosphere was just brilliant and electric,” Mr Hutchinson said. “There were people crying and at a loss for words. “Everyone was just so full of pride for Lachie and Riley,” he added. Mr Hutchinson also said the success of Tame and Fitzsimmons could equal big things for the Coast’s kayak and rugby scene, with the Kayak Club, in conjunction with Avoca Rugby, engaging the Central Coast Council with plans for a new club house.

Lachlan Tame and Ken Wallce during the Canoe Sprint Men's Kayak Double 1000m Heat 2

Avoca’s Riley Fitzsimmons

“We have entered the first stages of negotiations with Council to construct a club house as a joint venture,” Mr Hutchinson said. “Presently, the Kayak Club has no club house or home base so to speak, and the Rugby Club has nowhere for away teams to change, so we’re negotiating for a clubhouse that could service both clubs and improve the quality of life for both sports in Avoca,” Mr Hutchinson concluded. Athlete Profiles, Aug 24, 2016 Australian Olympic Committee Interview, Aug 24, 2016 Paul Hutchinson, Avoca Kayak Club Dilon Luke, journalist

WAR MEMORABILIA WANTED

Rugby Sevens star Jesse Parahi Photos: Australian Olympic Committee

Are you looking for a smile makeover?

PORCELAIN PORCELAIN VENEERS VENEERS Book your your FREE FREE Book assessment today today assessment Dental Implants Free Assessment Improve your quality of life.

Smile with more confidence with invisible braces!

A whiter brighter smile in one hour PHILIPS Zoom White speed in chair teeth whitening special - only $595 (normally $950)

• single tooth replacement • full mouth rehabilitation over 4-6 implants • implant supported dentures NEW PATIENT OFFER - No Gap Exam and Clean appointment for Private Dental Health Insurance patients.

Not with a Health Fund? Just pay $179

Includes FREE Xrays worth $160 The 60 minute appointment includes: Full Comprehensive Exam, Clean and Polish, OPG X-rays, Treatment Planning and Fluoride

al Lifel i ne

Interest FREE Payment Plans Available

We provide reasons to smile

Dr. Meena Gambhir

Bondi • Gosford

We Bulk Bill Under the Medicare Child Dental Benefit Scheme. NO OUT OF POCKET EXPENSE ($1,000 Free Dental Care for children age 2 to 17 - Ask us for the Details)

Dr. Namita Mehta

Saturday Appointments Available - We accept Veteran’s Affairs patients Shop 1, 201 Mann Street, Opposite Gosford Train Station, Gosford 2250 gosford@dentallifeline.com.au | www.dentallifeline.com.au