Issue 155 of COAST Community News by Central Coast Newspapers

APRIL 6, 2017

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ISSUE 155

Asbestos at Wamberal Beach remains in place nine months after being exposed M r Pat Aiken, who has recently announced he will be standing for election to the new Central Coast Council in September, has raised the alarm about what he believes to be thick asbestos roof sheeting exposed by storm damage at Wamberal Beach.

According to Mr Aiken, who made a notification to the EPA about the exposed sheeting on Friday, March 31, it has been exposed, subject to the weather and accessible by the public since June 2016. In a written statement, the EPA said that it had responded to reports of bonded asbestos being discovered on Wamberal Beach after being notified by a resident through Environment Line on March 31. “Central Coast Council is the appropriate regulatory authority for this matter, and the EPA understands that they are treating this situation as a priority,” the EPA statement said. “The EPA is working with council and will provide assistance as required.” Central Coast Council said it had received reports of exposed asbestos on Wamberal Beach following the June 2016 storms. “These reports were investigated and actioned with the property owners removing the material,” a media statement from the Council said. “It appears that further asbestos may have been exposed after the recent wet weather,” the statement said. “We have investigated this and we are taking action to have it removed.” Mr Aiken said he believed the material may have been dumped as far back as the 1970s, but was exposed by the coastal erosion event that impacted Wamberal Beach in June 2016. “Since July 2016, Central Coast Council has known of the existence of environmentally inappropriate materials situated in the cliff face or escarpment formed by the

coastal erosion that occurred in June 2016,’ Mr Aiken said. He said the Council was warned in a confidential report it commissioned in June 2016 that “environmentally inappropriate materials” were evident in the escarpment along Wamberal Beach. “Council has not: publicly identified the exposure of the asbestos dumping; issued appropriate public warnings; taken action to ensure the removal of the asbestos cement debris from public land; and has most certainly not attempted to prevent exposure of the general public to this toxic contaminant,” Mr Aiken said. “Despite many inspections by Council and State Government Officers, the debris remains in place and continues to represent a health risk to the general public,” he said. Mr Aiken said he had taken photographs of the site in November, “but I didn’t realise at the time what I was taking. “It has possibly become more uncovered because of the rain, but there is a massive amount, I reckon there would be a couple of wheel barrows of the stuff, I don’t know how far back it goes,” he said. Mr Aiken described the material as resembling super thick roof sheeting. In January, Mr Bruce Thom, the

current chair of the NSW Coastal Panel and Mr Phil Watson, a member of the Panel’s Secretariat, were photographed adjacent to the material (see page 3). The photograph was taken on the day of a beach inspection for the Land and Environment Court case between Wamberal residents and the Coastal Panel over their development application to build a revetment wall to protect their properties from coastal erosion. Mr Aiken said it would be difficult and pointless to attempt to “lay blame” for how the materials ended up dumped at the beach. However, he said the issue remained one of public safety now. “The asbestos is on public land, on the seaward side of a property in Ocean View Dve, but well past that property’s boundary with the beach,” he said. “Council has an absolute responsibility either to order people to remove the materials or order it to be cleaned up, but in this case, it is on land they control. “It will only need another storm to get the material spread right across the beach, so Council has an obligation to inform the public and they have to remove the material at their cost. “They know about it because using GIPA (Government Information Public Access legislation), I gained access to a

heavily redacted Wamberal Beach Coastal Erosion Report, which says there was inappropriate material on the beach.” The report was commissioned and obtained by Central Coast Council in June 2016. The Wamberal residents fighting to build a revetment wall to protect their properties return to the Land and Environment Court on April 12. The NSW Coastal Panel is the consent authority in the case, not Central Coast Council, because the Council’s Coastal Zone Management Plan has not yet been signed off by the NSW Government. Major storm events in the 1970s resulted in homes being lost to the sea and a range of materials, including building debris, being used to protect other homes exposed to the same risk. Federal, State and Local Governments were involved in these protection measures, and in 1978, there were real concerns that the sea would burst through the Wamberal Beach dune system at a location now referred to as the Ruins. In June 2016, a severe storm caused damaged to private land and infrastructure. Following the storm in June 2016, Central Coast Council commissioned a report titled, “Wamberal Beach NSW Storm Erosion Remediation Report

R16029-01-01”, prepared by Coastal Environment Pty Ltd. The report was kept confidential and not made public. “The author, Mr Doug Lord, clearly identified extensive contamination of Wamberal Beach by ‘environmentally inappropriate materials’ and in an underlined statement, he called for the immediate removal of those materials and the many large pieces of debris in excess of 100kg sitting at height above the beach. “Central Coast Council has not acted to remove those materials, and until recently, has withheld this critical information from the public,” Mr Aiken said. Coastal Residents Incorporated applied for access to the confidential report in February, 2017, under the Government Information (Public Access) Act (GIPA). Council decided, 30 days after the application, to provide highly restricted access to a heavily censored (redacted) version of the report. Mr Aiken estimated that around 40 per cent of the document had been blacked out or redacted. The document may only be inspected in the presence of a Council Officer, and three days’ notice must be given by the applicant wishing to inspect the censored report. No more than four people may inspect the document at the same time, which has been divided into four sections for the purpose of inspection, and applicants must agree to sign a copyright statement. The report was commissioned by Council to identify and prioritise storm remediation works and assess the risk to the public areas of the beach front, as well as identify properties which may be at risk following the weather event. According to a statement from Council as to its reasons for keeping the report confidential: “The report also forms a body of evidence that has been gathered by Council in contemplation of future legal proceedings following the storm event.

“The likelihood of future proceedings is considered to be highly likely, as other areas within New South Wales, such as Byron Bay, have been subject to legal proceedings regarding matters of risk to beach front properties. “Given the nature of the event that has occurred, Council considers the future prospect of proceedings to be highly likely. “To release this information to the public would result in a prejudicial impact to Council regarding those proceedings. “Other relevant factors against the release of this information taken into consideration are the reasonably expected prejudices to the exercise of Council’s functions in response to the impacts of the weather event. “Council is still in the process of assessing the detail provided within the report and deliberating as to how it may exercise its functions accordingly. “It is considered that if the information were to be released prematurely, before Council has had an opportunity to exercise any functions as it sees fit, the exercise of these functions may be prejudiced.” Source: Media statement and interview, Apr 3, 2017 Pat Aiken, Coastal Residents Incorporated Jackie Pearson, journalist

Gosford by-election coverage, including candidate profiles and latest news from page 6

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Environmental Justice Australia calls on EPA to act on serious air pollution at Vales Point o m m u n i t y groups have initiated an EPA investigation into air pollution from the Vales Point power station at Mannering Point.

It has been alleged that coal trucks dumping thousands of tonnes of coal outdoors at the power station have created clouds of dangerous coal dust, just hundreds of metres from residential Mannering Point. “We reported the pollution event immediately and looked forward to a prompt investigation by the NSW EPA to stop and remedy this serious air pollution problem,” said Dr James Whelan, researcher with Environmental Justice Australia. According to Dr Whelan, particle pollution from coal dust causes serious health impacts including respiratory and cardiovascular illness, asthma and hospital admissions. Under their pollution licence, the Vales Point power station operators must carry out all their operations and activities in a manner that will minimise the emission of dust.

Tip trucks (right) depositing coal on one of the outdoor mounds at Vales Point power station dumped by very large, pollution,” the power station. When community minimise members investigated, said local resident Mr The Vales Point power and often uncovered, coal trucks were Mike Campbell, who station was sold by the dump trucks at Vales uncovered and no water witnessed the pollution. NSW Government in Point. was sprayed to control “There are mountains “It’s shocking to 2015 to two investors in dust. of coal as high as threesee Delta Electricity a $1 million deal. thousands The Vales Point dumping It is expected to close storey buildings within a very short distance power station reported of tonnes of coal by 2022. emitting 34 million outdoors in hot windy Dr Whelan said the to the residential areas exposing EPA had responded of Mannering Point and kilograms of 30 conditions, substances in the 2014- our community to toxic to the Environmental Blue Haven,” Dr Whelan 15 National Pollutant pollution,” Mr Campbell Justice Australia said. Inventory, including said. “We were stunned by pollution report by 66,000kg of coarse The pollution was stating Vales Point was what we saw at Vales particle pollution. reported to the Chief using water trucks to Point. Elsewhere in NSW, Regulator of NSW, control the dust but, “It looks like they coal is transported into Mr Mark Gifford, and he said, on two out of have the same sort of power station furnaces Regional EPA Director, the three occasions he conveyor system as by conveyor belts that Mr Adam Gilligan, on visited the site, no water other power stations, the evening of Thursday, was being sprayed to but it is not being used. are entirely enclosed. contain the dust. “We expect a February 16. “The EPA said the The closest EPA air major polluter like “Tens of thousands of conveyors will be in use Delta Electricity to pollution monitoring is tonnes of coal are being by April, but that is still do all they can to more than 25km from

two months away, so we believe operations should be closed down until that conveyor is operational,” he said. Dr Whelan said it was his contention that Delta was not investing in the power station because it was due to be closed in 2022. “It is being run like you would run a second hand car: get another year out of it without spending any money or take it to the wreckers. “That is not what best practice looks like; it is not being a good neighbour,” he said. Delta Electricity has been asked to respond to Environmental Justice Australia’s claims about Vales Point. Dr Whelan said the latest report to the EPA was part of a 39-year history of campaigning by local politicians and community groups to get air pollution monitoring in place for communities living close to power stations like Vales Point. Media release, Feb 17, 2017 James Whelan, Environmental Justice Australia Interview, Feb 27, 2017 Mike Campbell, Community Environment Network Interview, Feb 27, 2017 James Whelan, Environmental Justice

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March 14, 2017

A fast ferry service with an interchange at Ettalong is being proposed as part of a billion dollar business plan that Central Coast Council has presented to the Premier and Cabinet of the NSW Government. The proposal, presented to NSW Government Ministers at a recent Community Cabinet meeting, included the “construction of Ettalong Wharf and Pier including a transport interchange and parking facilities. “Council is seeking an audience in confidence with the State Government to present the opportunity and formulate a strategy and roadmap for the realisation of the project with a view to it being a State Significant Project,” briefing notes presented to the Ministers said. “This State Significant Project will require partnership with the NSW State Government across a number of portfolios including planning, lands and Roads and Maritime Services. “It has the potential to change the face of the Central Coast region, bring significant

An example of a high speed ferry that travels between Japan and South Korea

employment and economic stimulus to the region and contribute to the social wellbeing of the community,” the notes said. Mr Steve Duncan, Chairman of the G5 Global Vision Foundation, and one of the proponents of the project, said it had involved years of planning. Mr Duncan had also played

a part in previous proposals to develop a fast ferry service between Central Coast and Sydney. “The Central Coast Council has been very meticulous in dealing with our proposal because they want it to happen,” Mr Duncan said. “Our group specialises in

infrastructure capital raising and we have serious projects on the go in India, South Africa and Asia,” he said. “We have the DA process and the public involvement process ready to go. “He have brought in the best architects and engineers Australia has to offer and this is

about infrastructure. “As an international investment banker, I knew I had to secure the funding first and that is what I have done. “We have asked Council to give us the green light to start working through all the issues with the community and the environment,” he said. Another element of the proposal would be a privatelyowned dredge to keep the Brisbane Water channel at Half Tide Rocks navigable for the fast ferries at all time. “The actual channel into Brisbane Water has been filled up from reckless dredging and beach replenishment so Brisbane Water is under-utilised because the boating fraternity won’t bring their vessels in,” he said. The boats to be used are similar to those that are currently in use as ferry services between South Korea and Japan. Cabinet briefing notes, 9 Feb 2017 Ian Reynolds, Central Coast Council Interview, 21 Feb 2017 Steve Duncan, G5 Global Vision Foundation Reporter: Jackie Pearson

Centenarians celebrate birthdays Two Peninsula Villages residents are celebrating milestone birthdays this month. Ms Biddy Abrahams and Ms Eileen Banks marked their 100th and 103rd birthdays respectively with a special morning tea held in their honour. The centenarians were each also given birthday cakes and a bunch of flowers containing one flower for each year of their lives. “We love to celebrate our residents, especially when they reach such important milestones as the 100 club,” said Peninsula Village chief executive officer Mr Shane Neaves. “We now have three lovely ladies who are aged over 100

years living at Peninsula Villages. “Both Biddy and Eileen are much admired around the Village so we were grateful for an opportunity to spoil them,” Mr Neaves added. The newest centenarian at the Village, Ms Abrahams has lived a fascinating life. Born in 1917 in the throes of the First World War, she was brought up by her grandmother and later trained to be a nursery help for a nanny. Ms Abrahams joined the Women’s Land Army in 1941 where one of her jobs was to deliver the mail to different farms. Because she didn’t know how to ride a bike, she was given a horse to make her rounds. The Women’s Land Army is

one of Ms Abraham’s fondest memories, as it was an opportunity for her to be back in the bush, acting resourcefully and feeling valued. Ms Abrahams moved to Umina in the early 1980s with her late husband Eric and said she loved the Central Coast lifestyle. She’s been living in her own home at Peninsula Villages for two years where she can enjoy hobbies such as knitting, crochet and embroidery. “Both Biddy and Eileen have a wonderful sense of humour and enjoy their independence, perhaps pointing to some secrets of ageing well,” Mr Neaves said. Media release, 27 Feb 2017 Katey Small, Brilliant Logic PR Ms Biddy Abrahams joined the 100 club in style at Peninsula Villages

Edition 415

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Wallarah 2 gets draft consent but conditions could make it unviable T

he Department of Planning and Environment (DPE) has issued draft development consent for the Wallarah 2 Coal Project.

The 78 conditions of consent echo the Department’s concern for the security of the Central Coast’s water supply. It has conceded that subsidence, caused by the Wallarah 2 coal project, would be massive, and would have an adverse impact on the water catchment, causing loss of drinking water. Under the draft conditions of consent, the Wallarah 2 coal project must provide compensatory water supply to any owner of privately owned land whose water supply is adversely and directly impacted (other than a negligible impact) as a result of the development. The compensatory water supply measures must provide an alternative long-term supply of water that is equivalent, in quality and volume, to the loss attributed to the development. Equivalent water supply must be provided, at least on an interim basis, within 24 hours of the loss being identiﬁed. Prior to the approval of any Extraction Plan that authorises extraction of Longwall 6N, the applicant must, in consultation with Central Coast Council and DPI Water, develop

a Central Coast Water Supply Compensatory Arrangement to compensate for the measured losses of water to the Central Coast Water Supply caused by underground coalmining on the site until the cessation of mining. Australian Coal Alliance Campaign Director, Mr Alan Hayes, said the compensatory water supply provisions would be impossible to achieve, except at enormous cost by the applicant, which makes the project unviable. “It would cost millions upon millions of dollars to try and achieve such a scenario with still no real guarantee of an adequate water supply,” Mr Hayes said. “We don’t have the luxury of a second water catchment on the Central Coast.

“The project was never viable and certainly this puts the nail in their cofﬁn. “You cannot put the water supply of 330,000 people at risk, just so the South Korean Government can have a supply of coal for power generation,” he said. The draft conditions of consent also put the burden of all subsidence damage with the mining company. The M1 Motorway, Mardi to Mangrove Creek Dam Pipeline, Main Northern Railway and the electricity transmission lines and towers must remain safe and serviceable. Any loss of serviceability must be fully compensated, based on the conditions that accompanied the Department’s draft consent. No longer is the Mine Subsidence Board

responsible for damage to subsidence affected homes. Wallarah 2 would be fully responsible for costs, including any compensation, to privately-owned residences, including built features, improvements, including farm dams, swimming pools, tennis courts, roads, tracks and fences. “Just like the compensatory water agreement, the cost will be astronomical and certainly makes any consideration to move forward unrealistic,” said Alan Hayes. ‘It’s doubtful that the PAC, when it goes to review, will change their position. “In 2014, they would not approve the mine because of uncertainty in being able to guarantee the security of the water

supply. “Wallarah 2’s own EIS confirms there will be a negative impact. “It’s time that the State Government put its own citizens first and put a stop to this whole affair, and put in place the legislation they promised to protect the water catchment.” The state’s independent Planning Assessment Commission will now review the Department’s assessment report which finds that the proposed underground mine near Wyong could be approved but with the extensive 78 conditions recommended. Those conditions include some addressing the Central Coast’s water resources. A public hearing has been scheduled to be held at the Wyong Golf Club, 319 Pacific Hwy, Wyong, on Wednesday, April 5, from 9:00am. Dr Oliver Holm, Planning’s Executive Director of Resource Assessments and Compliance, said the Department has carefully considered the revised proposal along with the Commission’s first review of the original proposal in 2014, especially

recommendations regarding water and subsidence. “We support the Commission’s recommendations and have now strengthened the conditions in our current assessment,” Dr Holm said. “This is in direct response to the Commission’s review and the community’s feedback during the public exhibition period. “New conditions recommended to the Commission by the Department include intensive and comprehensive monitoring of water resources, as well as independent audits of subsidence, surface water and groundwater. “The company should also be required to closely monitor subsidence and be prepared with Trigger Action Response Plans for the proposed mine’s longwalls. “There are also a suite of conditions to manage air quality, noise, impacts to landscape views, biodiversity and Aboriginal heritage. Continued page 4

STOP PRESS Gosford books are history: new Council is ‘safe, stable and sustainable’ - PAGE 3

THIS ISSUE contains 55 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 Frkeeone!

Issue 113 March 28, 2017

6 March 2017

Fast ferry service proposal presented to Premier

e Frkeeone!

Issue 112

Edition 414

Edition 416

20 March 2017

Liberals ‘knew of rail costs’ before election, Tesch claims The Liberal Government was aware of the escalating costs of the Woy Woy railway underpass before the 2015 State election, according documents secured by the Labor Party under Freedom of Information legislation. The estimates showed construction costs had escalated from $52 million to $112 million to complete the project. However, the Government kept quiet about the estimates until after the election, when it used them “as an excuse to scrap the project”, according to Labor candidate Ms Liesl Tesch. The Labor Party had obtained hundreds of pages of documents, emails, minutes of meetings and payment claims under Freedom of Information legislation, she said. “According to the documents, the State Government was made aware of the increased costs associated with the project on multiple occasions prior to the 2015 State Election. “In October last year, the former Minister for Roads, Mr Duncan Gay, claimed it was the former Gosford Council that had not adequately costed the project or informed the Government of the cost blowouts, despite numerous emails and documents suggesting otherwise,” she said.

Labor candidate for the Gosford by-election, Ms Liesl Tesch, with Shadow Minister for the Central Coast, Mr David Harris, at the level crossing in Woy Woy

The documents revealed that Central Coast Council had continued to receive funding for ongoing work on the project. By October 2016, the expenditure breakdown was roughly $4.1 million for project

management and consultancy fees; $5.8 million on the pedestrian underpass and adjacent road and footpath work and $5.3 million on preparatory works for the rail underpass and road construction at the base of Bulls Hill.

Minister, by adopting a “head-inthe-sand” approach to its true cost. “This reveals a scandal,” Ms Tesch said. “These documents reveal a State Liberal Government that has shown complete disregard for the Central Coast. “It hasn’t shown or applied the slightest bit of care or attention for the Central Coast. “Premier Berejiklian has overseen massive spending on Sydney-centric projects and is happy to bury her head in the sand when it comes funding our local infrastructure. “The Liberal candidate for Gosford needs to make a commitment to cleaning up the mess left behind by the Premier,” she said. Liberal candidate for Gosford, Ms Jilly Pilon, has claimed the $52 million promised by the NSW Government for the railway underpass was still available. However, she said the Council would need to ﬁnd the remainder of the money to complete the now $112 million project. Media release, 14 Mar 2017 Liesl Tesch, Labor Candidate for Gosford Interview, 16 Mar 2017 Jilly Pilon, Liberal Candidate for Gosford Reporter: Jackie Pearson

“Total expenditure to date is in the vicinity of $15.2 million,” the documents revealed. According to Ms Tesch, it was current NSW Premier, Ms Gladys Berejiklian, who botched the project when she was Transport

Gosford accounts referred for external audit The ﬁnancial reports for the former Gosford Council, for the period from July 1, 2015, to May 12, 2016, have been referred for an external audit following an Extraordinary Central Coast Council meeting on March 13.

prior to the Extraordinary Meeting to allow community members to present their views on the reports which were made public on March 9. Council administrator Mr Ian Reynolds said Council was “following due process” and had been required under the

proclamation to prepare ﬁnancial reports for the two former Councils, including the former Gosford Council. “My task as administrator is to ensure proper process has been followed and that these reports have been prepared under relevant legislation and accounting

standards and I am satisﬁed they have been,” Mr Reynolds said. “The reports will now be referred for external audit and we will await their advice. “The community can be assured it is business as usual for the new Central Coast Council. “We will continue to deliver

the services they need, want and value,” he added. The ﬁnancial reports and minutes of the meeting are available on Council’s website. Media release, 13 Mar 2017 Ian Reynolds, Central Coast Council More coverage page 5

A residents’ forum was held

MARCH 23, 2017

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APRIL 6, 2017

Torrents of water containing toxic leachate are flowing into water catchment area T

he recent heavy rains have renewed community fears about the safety of the Mangrove Mountain landfill. Mountain Districts Association (MDA) spokesperson, Ms Marilyn Steiner, said: “The piecemeal way that the site has been constructed, with little regard for Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Guidelines on best practice, means that every time there is prolonged and heavy rain, the waste pile, with its steep sides, becomes saturated, and sheds torrents of water containing toxic leachate. “This leachate-laden water runs into the settlement ponds and ground water aquifer and also directly into the gully which leads to Stringybark Creek, Ourimbah Creek and the Central Coast’s water supply. “Once the settlement ponds are full, there is no place for the untreated water to go except offsite, which the EPA says is not permitted,” she said. “This prohibition does not appear, from many years of photos obtained through GIPA searches, to have been enforced. “MDA identified that blatant pumping out of settlement ponds plus the leachate pond off-site has been taking place under the nose of the EPA for years, and it has taken persistent questioning to engage the EPA in making its own enquiries and enforcing its own regulations,” she said. The substantial contaminant plume observed and photographed by residents in Ourimbah Creek in late July 2015 was traced back by Ken Brookes, Catchment Management Officer of the former Wyong Council, to Hallards Creek and thence uphill

Cell W in Feb 2016, holding an estimated 20 million litres of contaminated run-off

to the north-east corner of the landfill, Ms Steiner said. “The previous heavy rains in April 2015 may have created a similar crisis in rainwater management to that currently being experienced. “The usual run-off point is the low SE corner of the landfill where there is a spillway and gully running into Stringybark Creek and a pond on the golf course. “It is the obvious place for water monitoring. “In this instance, it is alleged that for several weeks, possibly months, judging by the depth of the gully downhill and the extent of dead vegetation, run-off was pumped instead uphill to this North-East corner. “It is alleged the contaminated

water was then directed under the fence into the Jilliby Conservation area, which is not accessible to the general public and where detection was unlikely. “Despite no charges ever being laid by the EPA, the scandal forced the operator to find other ways of dealing with excess run-off, and an area called Cell W became the temporary repository. “Cell W is the next area scheduled to receive waste if and when the site is re-opened, and is on the southern edge of the current waste mound. “It was excavated in 2012. “In January 2016, MDA observers estimated that Cell W contained 20 million litres of contaminated water. “So what to do with all this

Spillway at SE corner of landﬁll, now fenced off and monitored by Operator with security cameras.

contaminated water? “The recent long dry spel,l plus use of evaporators and sprinklers, succeeded in emptying Cell W by February, ready, the operator no doubt hoped, for impervious lining prior to receiving waste.

“However, we are back in the same situation because in Australia it does actually rain for extended periods on occasion, and Cell W is yet again filling rapidly, despite run-off now being directed into settlement ponds.

“And what now happens when these are full, apart from illegal, unrestrained overflow into the catchment? “It’s business as usual. “The site is unlikely to ever be able to contain rainfall run-off, so this is a vicious cycle. “MDA has a major concern that the EPA is still not monitoring this site adequately. “It has officially lodged a complaint, but it should not be the community’s job to police the landfill. “In fact, there is no public oversight reasonably possible, because the operator owns the only viewing point, the golf course, and has forbidden the MDA access to both the landfill and the golf course, with multiple video surveillance cameras policing the perimeter. “How does this come about, that a major landfill poised above a water catchment can operate without any public monitoring? “If Buttonderry, Woy Woy and Kincumber landfills are Councilowned and operated under strict guidelines, why is this landfill allowed to operate privately under the radar, especially with its history of appalling environmental management?” In Central Coast Council’s recent Financial Report, note 23, page 79, it states that the assets, rights and liabilities of the former Gosford City Council have been transferred to Central Coast Council. “So step up Central Coast Council and do the right thing by implementing new proceedings in the Land and Environment Court with the aim of closing and remediating this huge blight on Council’s record,” Ms Steiner said. Media release, Mar 20, 2017 Marilyn Steiner, Mountain Districts Association

Your independent community newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369

he Central Coast Council has determined 3,000 development applications since it was created in May 2016, worth over $1 billion to the economy of the new Local Government Area (LGA).

New housing opportunities will be available close to one of the Coast’s greatest attractions, the beaches, with residential unit developments approved for Canton Beach, with more to come. The Central Coast also remains an ideal place to build the family dream home with 914 additional lots created since the merger. Council Group Leader, Environment and Planning, Mr Scott Cox, said Council’s role was to ensure it had the right planning controls in place

to continue to grow and encourage sustainable development on the Central Coast. “We have a huge challenge to meet the housing and employment needs of our growing community while maintaining the enviable lifestyle and environment we all enjoy here,” Mr Cox said. “We are in the process of consolidating our planning controls so that there is consistency across the Coast, as we want to ensure that we can facilitate the right development we want to see here. “The growth in housing, particularly unit style development, needs to be where transport connections and opportunities are, in our town centres and tourism hubs, and we want to encourage development there. “The mix needs to be right in delivering

a range of housing options to match various household needs, but also ensuring that the unique environment on the Coast is enhanced and protected.” Council held its ﬁrst Developers’ Forum on Monday, February 27, with over 140 industry leaders in attendance to start the conversation as to how Council and the development sector can work together to deliver sustainable development for the Central Coast. Due to the strong interest in the Forum from the development sector, a number of industry members were unable to ﬁt in, so Council will hold another informal Developers’ Forum in Wyong in May on a date to be determined. Source: Media release, Mar 23, 2017 Media update, Mar 24, 2017 Central Coast Council media

Each 6,500 tonne concrete chimney, which have been a part of the region’s skyline for decades, were stacked with explosives and toppled in seconds. The impact was felt throughout Lake Munmorah. Lake Munmorah Power Station was closed in 2012, leaving behind a reputation as one of the state’s oldest and dirtiest power plants. During its prime in the 70s, the station supplied up to 40 per cent of NSW’s energy. Liberty Industrial

1960s, and was closed in 2012 after 45 years of operation. “Its ageing infrastructure and cost of operation meant that it was no longer economically viable to compete against newer and more efﬁcient plants,” said Delta Electricity Interim Chief Executive Ofﬁcer, Mr Ray Madden. “We’ve appointed Liberty Industrial to undertake this important work. “Liberty Industrial have been selected for their expertise with large industrial

type of project extremely well,” Mr Dick said. The demolition project aims to eliminate risks associated with any deterioration of the station, improve the visual impact of the surrounding environment and maximise the reuse and recycling of materials removed from site,” Mr Dick added. What the cleared land could potentially be used for is currently unknown.

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 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net Mobile Website: 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

Source: Media release May 20, 2016 Ray Madden, Delta Electricity Dilon Luke, Journalist

PH: 4325 7369

r Pat Aiken, who has recently announced he will be standing for election o the new Central Coast Council in September, has aised the alarm about what he believes to be thick asbestos roof sheeting exposed by storm damage at Wamberal Beach.

Looking across Correa Bay from the foreshore reserve with boat ramp in bottom right hand corner Photo Wikinomad

Iconic chimney stacks seconds before demolition

he most iconic have been handling the demolition projects and remnants of the demolition, with the their impeccable safety implosion record.” Lake Munmorah chimneys’ Liberty Industrial Power Station, the signalling a half way point two 155 metre of sorts for the demolition Founder and Director, of the entire plant, chimney stacks, which is scheduled for Mr Clinton Dick, said the project is in safe hands. were demolished on completion in September “We have a proven Sunday, March 26, as 2018. track record with large part of site clearing “Munmorah Power industrial demolitions works. Station was built in the and we understand this

YOUR INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

ISSUE 154

Asbestos at Wamberal Beach remains in place nine months after being exposed M

Iconic chimney Over $1 billion stacks demolished worth of development applications determined by merged Council

3 April 2017

ISSUE 154

Correa Bay closed after sewage discharge Correa Bay boat ramp and the adjoining foreshore area were closed after the discharge of sewage into the bay during a severe thunderstorm on Wednesday, March 22. Central Coast Council issued a public health alert at 4:55pm on Friday, March 24, two days after the storm, to advise the public that water quality may have been affected. The council attributed the contamination to a combination of large storm water ﬂows and a power outage at a sewage pump station. As a precaution, Council closed the boat ramp and adjoining foreshore area and advised residents to avoid swimming, ﬁshing and other recreational activities in the area until further

notice. “Council continues to monitor the situation closely and is working with the NSW Environment Protection Authority and other relevant authorities,” the council statement said. The boat ramp and foreshore area remained closed until 4:54pm on Monday, March 27, when it was reopened after the council confirmed “water quality is suitable for recreational purposes”. The Central Coast Council has an Environment Protection Licence which states that the Council is required: to prevent as far as practicable sewage overflows and sewage treatment plant bypasses; to have proper and efficient management of the system to minimise harm to the environment and public health; and to have practical measures in

place to protect the environment and public health from sewage overflows and sewage treatment plant effluent. As part of its licence conditions, Council is required to notify the EPA of the date, estimated start time and estimated duration of the bypass; the estimated volume of the bypass; the probable cause of the bypass; any actions taken to stop the bypass happening; and any actions taken to prevent the bypass happening again. As licensee it must also record details in relation to each observed or reported overflow from the reticulation system and from the sewage treatment plant: the location of the overflow; the date, estimated start time and estimated duration of the overflow; the estimated volume of the overflow; a description

of the receiving environment of the overflow; classification as a dry or wet weather overflow; the probable cause of the overflow; any actions taken to stop the overflow happening; any actions taken to clean up the overflow; and any actions taken to prevent the overflow happening again. Any risks to public health should also be made public “immediately” under the licence and the Department of Health and the Safe Foods NSW Shellfish Quality Assurance Program must also be informed where the bypass or overflow could have potential impacts on shellfish production. SOURCES: Media releases, 24 and 27 Mar 2017 Ian Reynolds, Central Coast Council Website, 30 Mar 2017 Environmental Protection Authority

Gosford by-election coverage, including candidate profiles and latest news from page 6

According to Mr Aiken, who made a notification to the EPA bout the exposed sheeting on riday, March 31, it has been xposed, subject to the weather nd accessible by the public since une 2016. In a written statement, the EPA aid that it had responded to eports of bonded asbestos being iscovered on Wamberal Beach fter being notified by a resident hrough Environment Line on March 31. “Central Coast Council is the ppropriate regulatory authority or this matter, and the EPA nderstands that they are treating his situation as a priority,” the PA statement said. “The EPA is working with council nd will provide assistance as equired.” Coast Community News has sked Central Coast Council to espond to the reports of asbestos n the beach at Wamberal. Mr Aiken said he believed the material may have been dumped s far back as the 1970s, but was xposed by the coastal erosion vent that impacted Wamberal Beach in June 2016. “Since July 2016, Central Coast Council has known of the xistence of environmentally nappropriate materials situated n the cliff face or escarpment ormed by the coastal erosion that ccurred in June 2016,’ Mr Aiken aid. He said the Council was warned in a confidential report it ommissioned in June 2016 that environmentally inappropriate materials” were evident in the scarpment along Wamberal Beach.

“Council has not: publicly identified the exposure of the asbestos dumping; issued appropriate public warnings; taken action to ensure the removal of the asbestos cement debris from public land; and has most certainly not attempted to prevent exposure of the general public to this toxic contaminant,” Mr Aiken said. “Despite many inspections by Council and State Government Officers, the debris remains in place and continues to represent a health risk to the general public,” he said. Mr Aiken said he had taken photographs of the site in November, “but I didn’t realise at the time what I was taking. “It has possibly become more uncovered because of the rain, but there is a massive amount, I reckon there would be a couple of wheel barrows of the stuff, I don’t know how far back it goes,” he said. Mr Aiken described the material as resembling super thick roof sheeting. In January, Mr Bruce Thom, the current chair of the NSW Coastal Panel and Mr Phil Watson, a member of the Panel’s Secretariat, were photographed adjacent to the material. The photograph was taken on

the day of a beach inspection for the Land and Environment Court case between Wamberal residents and the Coastal Panel over their development application to build a revetment wall to protect their properties from coastal erosion. Mr Aiken said it would be difficult and pointless to attempt to “lay blame” for how the materials ended up dumped at the beach. “Fibro houses were common in the 1970s and dumping stuff did occur at the height of the storms in the 1970s, when no one was too worried about what they were throwing in,” he said. However, he said the issue remained one of public safety now. “The asbestos is on public land, on the seaward side of a property in Ocean View Dve, but well past that property’s boundary with the beach,” he said. “Council has an absolute responsibility either to order people to remove the materials or order it to be cleaned up, but in this case, it is on land they control. “It will only need another storm to get the material spread right across the beach, so Council has an obligation to inform the public and they have to remove the material at their cost. “They know about it because using GIPA (Government

Information Public Access legislation), I gained access to a heavily redacted Wamberal Beach Coastal Erosion Report, which says environmentally, there was inappropriate material on the beach.” The report was commissioned and obtained by Central Coast Council in June 2016. The Wamberal residents fighting for the right to build a revetment wall to protect their properties from damage by future east coast lows return to the Land and Environment Court for their next hearing on April 12. The NSW Coastal Panel is the consent authority in the case, not Central Coast Council, because the Council’s own Coastal Zone Management Plan has not yet been signed off by the NSW Government. Wamberal Beach has been devastated many times by storms generated by an east coast low, which cause coastal erosion. Major storm events in the 1970s resulted in homes being lost to the sea and a range of materials, including building debris, being used to protect other homes exposed to the same risk. Federal, State and Local Governments were involved in these protection measures, and in 1978, there were real concerns

that the sea would burst through the Wamberal Beach dune system at a location now referred to as “the Ruins”. In June 2016, a severe storm again caused damaged to private land and infrastructure, but no homes were lost. Following the storm in June 2016, Central Coast Council commissioned a report titled, “Wamberal Beach NSW Storm Erosion Remediation Report R16029-01-01”, prepared by Coastal Environment Pty Ltd in July, 2016. The confidential report was not made available to the residents of the Central Coast, in particular those living on Wamberal Beach, and those who use Wamberal Beach. “In the report, the author, Mr Doug Lord, clearly identified extensive contamination of Wamberal Beach by ‘environmentally inappropriate materials’ and in an underlined statement, he called for the immediate removal of those materials and the many large pieces of debris in excess of 100kg sitting at height above the beach, which placed users of the beach at risk. “Central Coast Council has not acted to remove those materials, and until recently, has withheld this critical information from the public,” Mr Aiken said. Coastal Residents Incorporated applied for access to the confidential report in February, 2017, under the Government Information (Public Access) Act (GIPA). Council decided, 30 days after the application, to provide highly restricted access to a heavily censored (redacted) version of the report. Mr Aiken estimated that around 40 per cent of the document had been blacked out or redacted. The document may only be inspected in the presence of a Council Officer, and three days’ notice must be given by the applicant wishing to inspect the censored report. No more than four people may inspect the document at the same

time, which has been divided into four sections for the purpose of inspection, and applicants must agree to sign a copyright statement. The report was commissioned by Council to identify and prioritise storm remediation works and assess the risk to the public areas of the beach front, as well as identify properties which may be at risk following the weather event. According to a statement from Council as to its reasons for keeping the report confidential: “The report also forms a body of evidence that has been gathered by Council in contemplation of future legal proceedings following the storm event. “The likelihood of future proceedings is considered to be highly likely, as other areas within New South Wales, such as Byron Bay, have been subject to legal proceedings regarding matters of risk to beach front properties. “Given the nature of the event that has occurred, Council considers the future prospect of proceedings to be highly likely. “To release this information to the public would result in a prejudicial impact to Council regarding those proceedings. “Other relevant factors against the release of this information taken into consideration are the reasonably expected prejudices to the exercise of Council’s functions in response to the impacts of the weather event. “Council is still in the process of assessing the detail provided within the report and deliberating as to how it may exercise its functions accordingly. “It is considered that if the information were to be released prematurely, before Council has had an opportunity to exercise any functions as it sees fit, the exercise of these functions may be prejudiced.” Source: Media statement and interview, Apr 3, 2017 Pat Aiken, Coastal Residents Incorporated Jackie Pearson, journalist

THIS ISSUE contains 59 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

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

Merged Council notches up over 3,000 development approvals worth over $1 billion number of key development applications have been approved by Central Coast Council bringing the number determined since amalgamation, including section 96 applications, to over 3,000, worth over $1 billion to the local economy.

Council has approved a redesign of the Bonython Tower on Mann St Gosford, which will create a residential tower and ground floor commercial space right in the heart of the CBD and inject $17.6 million into the local economy. More housing options are also on the way close to the CBD, with the approvals for additional residential units in Gosford, West Gosford and Point Frederick. The Central Coast also remains the ideal place to build the family dream home, with 914 additional

lots created since the merger. Council Group Leader, Environment and Planning, Mr Scott Cox, said Council’s role was to ensure it had the right planning controls in place to continue to grow and encourage sustainable development on the Central Coast. “We have a huge challenge to meet the housing and employment needs of our growing community while maintaining the enviable lifestyle and environment we all enjoy here,” Mr Cox said. “We are in the process of consolidating our planning controls so that there is consistency across the Coast, as we want to ensure we can facilitate the right development we want to see here. “The growth in housing, particularly unit style development, needs to be where transport connections and opportunities are in our town centres and tourism hubs, and we want to encourage

development there. “The mix needs to be right in delivering a range of housing options to match various household needs, but also ensuring that the unique environment on the Coast is enhanced and protected.” Council held its first ever Developers’ Forum on March 27, with over 140 industry leaders in attendance to start the conversation as to how Council and the development sector can work together to deliver sustainable development for the Central Coast. Due to the strong interest in the forum from the development sector, a number of industry members were unable to fit in, so Council will hold an informal Developers Forum in May. Source: Media release, Mar 23, 2017 Central Coast Council media

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EASTER YOUR WAY

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

NEWS PAGE 3 APRIL 6, 2017

Draft policy for asbestos management on public exhibition

Land and Environment Court inspection of Wamberal Beach in January with Mr Phil Watson and Mr Bruce Thom from the NSW Coastal Panel adjacent to the suspected asbestos materials, see page 1 story

entral Coast Council has endorsed a draft of the first ever policy for asbestos management on the Central Coast to go out on public exhibition.

This policy is based on the Model Asbestos Policy for NSW Councils, released by the Department of Premier and Cabinet, which requests Councils to review their current asbestos management policies and amend where necessary. Council Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, said at the time of amalgamation that neither

the former Wyong nor Gosford Councils had an Asbestos Management Policy. “There is a genuine concern about handling this potentially deadly product and it is time we had a consistent approach to its management across the entire Central Coast community,” Mr Reynolds said. “A product which unfortunately was commonplace in building materials right across Australia between the 1940s and the late 1980s, is still having repercussions over a decade since being banned,” he said. “That is at the heart of this policy.

“It provides all the information Council and the community need to manage asbestos risk and sets out roles and responsibilities that are consistent across NSW, so we all know where we stand and are doing the right thing.” The new Draft Asbestos Policy will go out on public exhibition shortly and residents are encouraged to comment via Council’s Your Voice Our Coast website. Source: Media release, Mar 22, 2017 Central Coast Council media

FOR EASTER EATS AND OTHER LONG WEEKEND TREATS, IMPERIAL CENTRE HAS ALL YOUR SHOPPING NEEDS COVERED EASTER PETTING ZOO Monday 10th – Saturday 15th April (excluding Good Friday), 11am - 2pm near Bonds

LIVE COOKING DEMONSTRATIONS WITH ANDREW CHURCH Thursday 13th April, 11am - 2pm, Centre Court

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

PAGE 4 APRIL 6, 2017

NEWS

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

Child care cost relief to benefit thousands of families housands of families across Robertson are set for child care cost relief as part of the Turnbull Government’s reforms to the system, according to Federal Member for Robertson, Ms Lucy Wicks.

Ms Wicks said the new reforms would offer relief for families who are finding access to child care and early learning is increasingly out of reach. “These are the biggest reforms to child care and early learning in 40 years,” Ms Wicks said “We know the cost pressures that families face, so we’ve taken action to overhaul a broken system to deliver more affordable, accessible and flexible services for families and children.

“Our changes will inject $1.6 billion of additional investment into the system, with around one million families across the country to be better off, including nearly 8,000 families in Robertson that use child care and early learning services. “We’re targeting support to people working the most and earning the least, and it’s estimated that our reforms will encourage more than 230,000 families to return to the workforce or increase their involvement in paid employment. The reforms come into effect from July 1, 2018, and there are three key features: the first being better support for people working the most and earning the least. The changes simplify the current complicated rebate system by replacing payments with a single,

means-tested Child Care Subsidy that boosts the current flat 50 per cent rebate rate to 85 per cent for hardworking families earning up to $65,710, and then tapers down to 20 per cent for families earning more than $250,000, and cuts out for families earning more than $350,000. “Our reforms also introduce a three-step activity test with an entry point of four hours a week that gives families eligibility for 18 hours a week of subsidised child care. “This will align hours of care with the combined amount of work, training, study, volunteering or other recognised activity being undertaken by parents,” Ms Wicks said. The second key feature is relief from the rebate cap. “We will abolish the $7,500

rebate cap to ensure that families on incomes of $185,710 or less aren’t limited by a cap on the amount of child care they can access, and the cap will be increased to $10,000 for families earning more than $185,710, overall, offering relief to the approximately 100,000 families that hit the current $7,500 rebate cap,” Ms Wicks said. The final step will be the downward pressure on incessant fee increases. “Our reforms introduce an ‘hourly rate cap’ on the subsidies the government will pay that will set a benchmark price, so Australians will have a reference point to hold providers accountable and from which they can expect prices shouldn’t dramatically exceed. “We will also slash red tape

so services can be more flexible in the hours they deliver instead of the current system, where families who routinely need and use only four, six or eight hours of care, are charged for 10 or 12 hours,” Ms Wicks continued. Ms Wicks said the reforms were designed with regional and rural early childhood education and care services and their families in mind. “Many services in regional and rural areas are part of the old ‘Budget Based Funded’ system that has capped funding and is closed to new services, but under our reforms, they will also have access to hundreds of millions of dollars in additional support and a funding guarantee,” said Ms Wicks. “Our reforms also include measures to encourage workforce

participation, stronger compliance powers to further stamp out rorting, more flexibility for the hours’ child care centres open and additional investment for services to support children from disadvantaged backgrounds or with additional needs such as disability. “I look forward to discussing the reforms with families across Robertson and to seeing the benefits flow through to help household budgets, boost early learning opportunities and give families the opportunity to work, or work more,” Ms Wicks concluded. Source: Media release, Mar 24, 2017 Tim Sowden, Office of Lucy Wicks MP

Community Environment Network Help to tell the stories of our heritage Do you have an interest in the local history of the Central Coast region? .. Do you like to tell a good yarn? CEN is pleased to launch our Gosford Timewalks Project, a project made possible with funding from the Central Coast Council through their Community Development Grants. Take a walk in time around Gosford CBD - from the old Gosford Public School on the hill, along where the forgotten creek used to flow, down to a tree planted in memorial of Sister Sumner who helped the troops in the First World War. We are looking for volunteers to lead our walks. We will provide all training. It is expected that walks will be about 1.5 hrs in duration.

You’re invited! Central Coast Environment & Community Forum Sun, 7 May, 2017 The Central Coast Environment Forum will be held on Sunday, 7 May at Ourimbah.

Shackleton: Escape from Antarctica panel display opens Saturday, 8 April, 2017 at the Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre, Terrigal Follow in the footsteps of renowned Antarctic explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton in new panel display

CEN is a network of individuals, community and environment groups from across the region – so we are inviting all individuals and groups that care about our local environment and communities to come along. Hear great speakers, find out about what local groups are doing, perhaps even join an existing program or campaign. There will be stalls, presentations and workshops with something for everybody.

It’s one of the greatest survival stories of all time and now, over 100 years later, a new panel display on tour from the Australian National Maritime Museum invites visitors to walk in the footsteps of famous Antarctic explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton and discover his epic voyage of survival for themselves.

If you are interested in becoming one of our volunteer leaders - send an email to history@ This year is a critical year for the future of the Central Coast - especially its environment. cen.org.au.

Jane Smith, CEO

It is important for us all to come together for Our Central Coast - Worth Protecting! Bookings are essential. For more information and to book - visit www.cen.org.au

www.ccmdc.org.au

CEN Photographic Competition: Flora, Fauna and Foam CEN is launching a Photographic Competition to mark our 20 year anniversary. Opening Night will be on Friday 26 May. Naturally, the photographic competition has an environmental theme. Entrants are asked to photograph the flora, fauna, waterways (including underwater) and landforms of the Central Coast / Lake Macquarie area.

Supported by Central Coast Council through their Community Development Grants.

There are two categories for youth and adults with cash prizes and medals for each category, plus the "top shot" award as voted by the visiting public. Entry fee is $8 per photo. Photo courtesy Barry Collier

Entries to the photographic competition close on Wednesday, 17 May, 2017. For more information visit: www.cen.org.au

Our Central Coast - Worth Protecting The Community Environment Network (CEN) is an alliance of individuals and groups that work for ecologically sustainable development.

Support CEN - Become a member - Volunteer - Make a donation

www.cen.org.au

Ph: 4349 4756

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NEWS

PAGE 5 APRIL 6, 2017

Council accused of ignoring major health issue he Mountain Districts Association (MDA) has made a fresh demand for a forensic investigation into Mangrove Mountain Landfill.

MDA spokesperson, Dr Stephen Goodwin, said he had written to Central Coast Council Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, asking him to commit to a thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding Mangrove Mountain Waste Landfill as a matter of urgency. Dr Goodwin said: “This is a very complex matter that cannot be glossed over, nor would we expect it to be dismissed by convenient legal opinion acting in the interests of Central Coast Council, as has been the case. “The Mangrove Mountain waste landfill is producing three million litres of toxic leachate annually that is going into the groundwater aquifer and catchment of the Central Coast water supply. “This is a risk to the health of all residents on town water supply on the Central Coast that cannot be allowed to continue. “There needs to be an inquiry to determine who was responsible for this mess and to announce a course of action to have the site closed down and remediated,” he said. “We agree with the NSW

A leachate pond on the landfill site showing two exit pipes in the bank, upper one (circled in red) allegedly used for discharge

Premier, Ms Gladys Berejiklian, who, when commenting on the former Gosford Council’s financial mess, was reported as saying: ‘Throw the book at anyone who has done anything illegal or wrong’. “If an inquiry into the Mangrove Mountain waste landfill mess identifies culpability on the part of Council or any other party, then Council and other parties should accept that responsibility and deal with it. “If appropriate we would expect this matter also to be referred to ICAC,” Dr Goodwin said.

In relation to the ongoing investigation of the former Gosford Council’s finances, Dr Goodwin said: “Central Coast Council has demonstrated that it can exercise the necessary detailed level of investigation if called upon. “It showed this when it reported at a recent extraordinary meeting of Council on the results of a forensic examination of the books of the former Gosford City Council as part of its statutory obligation. “PricewaterhouseCoopers was appointed external auditor responsible for auditing the financial reports of the former

Gosford City Council for the 201516 reporting period required by the Local Government Act. “In the Financial Report presented to Council, it stated that the assets, rights and liabilities of the former Gosford City Council have been transferred to Central Coast Council. “In speaking on this matter at a Residents Forum at Central Coast Council on Monday, March 13, Dr Goodwin asked why Council had resisted opportunities presented to it by MDA to undertake a similar forensic approach into the Mangrove Mountain waste landfill. “Unfortunately, it would seem that Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, has a poor grasp of the complexity of this issue,” Dr Goodwin said. “He is either being ill advised or is not seeking advice.” “In an interview with Central Coast ABC breakfast host, Mr Scott Levi, on March 2, Mr Reynolds said that Council was meeting with the EPA that day to discuss the results of an independent Environmental Review of the Landfill and that he would be interested in the outcome of that meeting with a view to getting a resolution of the issue. “When presented with the fact that it was now known that the Land and Environment Court Order of 2014 could not be implemented, Mr Reynolds

responded by saying that ‘The independent report may well go into those issues’. “It was disappointing to hear him say that, because the Environmental Review being conducted by an independent consultant is an entirely different matter to the difficulties with the Court Order and if you look at the Court Order as it stands, there are other steps that Council should be considering as well. “MDA first met with Mr Reynolds and Chief Executive Officer, Mr Rob Noble, in August, 2016, and they gave the impression that they would take this matter seriously. “Evidence to date is that this is not the case and that they appear to have no intention of doing anything. “They are playing Russian Roulette with the health of residents,” he said. “Evidence for this claim came in a response from Mr Noble to a 45-page letter and supporting evidence that the Land and Environment Court Order 40900 of 2012 could not be implemented. “Mr Noble said: ‘Council’s current position is that it will not seek to re-open the proceedings 40900 of 2012’. “’Council will continue to review its position’.” Dr Goodwin said the MDA’s concern was that as far as Council decision-making was concerned,

Mr Reynolds was the Council, and the Mangrove Mountain Waste Landfill issue needed his intervention now. He said MDA had repeatedly expressed its willingness to meet with him to discuss the terms of reference for an investigation with a view to getting a resolution. “Mr Reynolds has had a report on Council’s meeting with the EPA for three weeks and has announced nothing to date.” In a written statement Central Coast Council said: “Council can confirm the EPA is currently working with an independent consultant who is undertaking a technical review of the revised Landfill Environmental management Plans for the Mangrove Mountain landfill. “Council has been consulted on the proposed changes to the landfill Environmental Management Plans. “Council is expecting to receive the final report and recommendations from the EPA by the end of March. “Council understands the MDA has also be briefed by the EPA on the report.” Source: Media release, Mar 20, 2017 Dr Stephen Goodwin, Mountain Districts Association Media statement, Mar 22, 2017 Central Coast Council media

Wyong Farmers Market 1st & 3rd Saturday - 7.30am till 1.00pm Farm Direct Produce:

VENUE: Wyong Racecourse Howarth Street, WYONG WHEN: 1st & 3rd Saturday of the month TIME: 7.00am till 1.00pm Rain, Hail or Shine

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Wyong Farmers’ Market WYONG Racecourse, Howarth Street, WYONG

PAGE 6 APRIL 6, 2017

ELECTION

By-election on April 8 he by-election for the State Seat of Gosford takes place on Saturday, April 8.

Thy by-election was triggered when the seat was vacated by Labor MP, Ms Kathy Smith, due to illness. Known as one of the most marginal seats in the state, the Seat of Gosford was narrowly lost by former Liberal MP Mr Chris Holstein in 2015, before it was picked up by Labor. Ms Smith suffered from illhealth for the majority of 2016, and announced her resignation in February 2017. Prior to Mr Holstein, the seat has jumped between the hands of the ALP and the Liberal Party. Former Labor MP Ms Marie Andrews held the seat from 2007 to 2011, Liberal MP Mr Chris Hartcher held the Seat from 1988 to 2007 and former Labor MP Mr Brian McGowan held the Seat from 1976 to 1988. The State Seat of Gosford is 867.15 square kilometres and cover postcodes 2083, 2250, 2256, 2257 and 2775.

Early voting is available at the Gosford Returning Officer’s Office on Watt St from Monday, March 27 to Friday, April 7. Early voting opening hours are 8:00am to 6:00pm Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 8:00pm on Thursday, April 6. Voting locations on election day include Calga – Mount White Bush Fire Brigade, Glenvale Special School in Narara, Gosford East Public School, Henry Kendall High School, Kariong Public School, Kulnura Public Hall, Mangrove Mountain Public Hall, Mooney Mooney Public School, Niagara Park Public School, Peats Ridge Public School, Point Clare Public School, Point Clare Scout Hall, Somersby Public School, Spencer Community Hall, TAFE NSW Hunter Institute Gosford Campus and Wyoming Public School. The polling locations will be open from 8:00am to 6:00pm on Saturday, April 8. Source: Website, Mar 30, 2017 Electoral Commission NSW

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

Abigail Boyd

Andrew Church

- The Greens

– Christian Democratic Party

bigail is passionate about creating a level playing field for all Australians, including through tax reform, reinvestment in health and education and reforms to address the lack of affordable housing.

love a sunburnt country, Umina and Woy Woy too,

She is committed to ensuring that families on the Central Coast are able to access cost effective childcare and that the most vulnerable in our community can access quality community services. Abigail believes in longterm planning for the Gosford electorate, well beyond the next electoral cycle, and will fight for the state government to invest in much-needed transport infrastructure and local services. This includes reducing the commute between Gosford and Sydney, reinvesting in TAFE, funding affordable and accessible childcare and bringing a university campus to Gosford. Abigail understands the benefit to the community of investing in Gosford’s cultural infrastructure, and is committed to building the Performing Arts Centre. Key to smart long-term development is the preservation of what makes the Central Coast

a great place to live, our beautiful environment, our clean water supply and our public spaces. All of these are under threat from the weakening of our environmental protection laws, overly-favourable conditions for developers and failure to properly consult with the community on local projects. Abigail will fight to restore the balance and ensure that the community has a meaningful say in what happens to their neighbourhoods. Abigail will consult widely with the community and will be available at local listening posts twice a month, giving all residents the opportunity to have their voices heard. Media statement, Apr 4, 2017 Abigail Boyd, Greens Candidate for Gosford

I love the Kariong Ridge and Gosford’s magnificent waterfront view. We all love living on the Coast. My wife and I have raised our family here. But many of us and our neighbours struggle with the cost of living. That is what hurts. The cost of petrol, the cost of electricity and the lack of sufficient trains in peak hour. Liberal government are building offices on the school site where Gosford needs a performing arts centre. Labor did nothing about the level crossing in 40 years and the Liberals took away the RTA/RMS office. Billions are being spent in Sydney on roads and rail but very little on The Peninsula. What would move you to vote differently this time? What experience and achievements of mine places me ahead of the others in wanting to serve you as your local State Member of Parliament? My track record is that I am known as a self starter, a doer, and achiever. You all know that I have written

books, started the Interactive War Museum, and I run staff training courses. There is much more to my track record. I was, and still am, humbled to be awarded Gosford Citizen of the Year 2016. What can I actually do you ask? My answer: to ask as many questions as possible of the Government to move resolutions in the Parliament to work with our two CDP members in the upper house. My track record is evidence that I am an achiever with relevant experience. Media statement, 30 Mar 2017 Sharon Jones, Christian Democratic Party

Liesl

GOSFORD BY-ELECTION

APRIL 8

Tesch Labor for Gosford

Vote Liesl Tesch to keep our hospitals

public

Authorised Genny Murphy, 18 Carrington Ave, Woy Woy NSW 2256.

/liesltesch

@LieslTesch

#WorkingForYou

Gosford By-Election

APRIL

J IL LY P ILO N WORKING FOR YOU Delivering upgrades to local roads, particularly on the Peninsula; such as Dunban Road and Ocean Beach Road, and the Maitland Bay Drive and Picnic Parade intersections.

Improving public transport with next-generation intercity trains for the Central al Coast and Newcastle line and improving Pointt Clare, Koolewong and Tascott stations. Delivering a Service NSW Digital Store in Woy Woy, so locals can complete digital transactions and drop off documents such as medical forms. Better frontline health services, through the redevelopment of Gosford Public Hospital, including a new emergency department.

On Saturday Vote 1 Liberal JILLY PILGoOsfoN rd

Liberal Candidate for

Authorised by Chris Stone, Level 12, 100 10 William Street, Eastt Sydney NSW 2011 2011. 1.

Improving Blackwall Road and Memorial Avenue, installing new traffic lights on Koolinda Avenue and Jirrah Avenue, and improving safety along Brisbane Water Drive around Point Clare School.

PAGE 8 APRIL 6, 2017

ELECTION

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Larry Freeman

Jilly Pilon

Liesl Tesch

- Shooters, Fishers and Farmers

- Liberal

- Labor

part from a short time living in the bush when I was a child I have spent the rest of my life living on the Coast.

osford is a place that will always hold a special place in my heart.

I have seen several governments come and go over the years that have largely only turned up on the coast at election time. I am a Coastie through and through and will represent the people of Gosford as only a true local can. I look forward to taking a nononsense approach to Macquarie Street as I believe the people have grown tired of the one-sizefits-all way of policy making and government we have now. Some projects I will fight to have completed in Gosford are revitalisation of the Gosford CBD. I look forward to helping to ensure that responsible development occurs in Gosford to bring some life into a city that has the potential to be the envy of many other parts of the country. It has always been my understanding that when the Gosford Public School was moved

When I was growing up on the Central Coast my dad was the first manager of the Woolies supermarket, so I spent all of my free time at Gosford. I can still remember when it was declared a city and everyone was so excited and proud. Over the years we have seen major developments take place across the Coast, which has sadly taken people away from Gosford. A number of people have spoken to me about Gosford waterfront, but I think the issue is bigger than just the waterfront, we need to be looking at ways to help bring people back to Gosford CBD. This is why I’m proud to be running as part of the Liberal team which is committed to delivering the infrastructure and services Gosford needs to grow and prosper, including the $348 million upgrade to Gosford Hospital. Commuters will travel in comfort with the Central Coast set to be the first line to receive the inner city train fleet. Local roads across Gosford will

off this site that a large part of the land would be utilised for community buildings. The government needs to listen to the people on this issue and to build a Performing Arts Centre if that is what they want. The people of the electorate have a right to be safe and secure no matter where they are. I look forward to working with local police on ensuring we reverse the current trend in crime, particularly violent and drug related crime on the Coast. Media statement, Mar 30, 2017 Larry Freeman, Shooters, Fishers and Farmers

’m putting my hand up to represent our community and no one could be prouder than me to be Labor’s candidate for the Gosford by-election.

be improved as part of a $23 million funding package, with safety at Point Clare Public School set to be boosted along Brisbane Water Drive. Finally our talented artists and performers, including my son, will benefit from the Gosford Performing Arts Centre which the State Government has committed $12 million to. I am a born and bred Coastie and if I am elected on April 8 I promise to be your strong voice in Government to ensure Gosford and the Central Coast community gets its fair share. Media statement, Apr 4, 2017 Alicia McCumstie, NSW Liberal Party

I have lived on the Peninsula and been teaching on the Central Coast for 20 years. Labor’s values are my values: fairness, equality, justice and inclusion. I’ve spent my working and sporting career advocating for these values and would be grateful for the opportunity to do that, on your behalf, in Parliament. I became an incomplete paraplegic in a bike crash at the age of 19. During my rehabilitation, I fell in love with the sport of wheelchair basketball, my newfound passion took me on to seven Paralympic games. I won two silvers and a bronze in wheelchair basketball and then two gold medals in sailing in London and Rio. It was during this time I decided I wouldn’t limit my success to the sporting arena. I have dedicated my life to

advocating for the most vulnerable in society from my work with Sports Matters, which I cofounded, my work with Safe Work NSW and my ongoing advocacy in the disability sector. I love the Central Coast and am proud to call the Peninsula my home. I want to be a strong voice for this community. I am determined to ensure the Central Coast get our fair share. Elect me and send a strong message to the Liberal State Government that Gosford and the Central Coast will not be taken for granted. Media statement, Mar 31, 2017 Peter Duggan, NSW Labor Party

ADVERTISEMENT MENT

DE B O’N EIL L & LABOR

LUCY WICKS MP

2010-2013

800 50,000

Federal Member for Robertson

S & T H E L I B E RA L

BOATS

ILLEGAL ARRIVALS

No plan for new jobs and a campaign to prevent 600 new jobs for Gosford Less than 300 premises connected to a more expensive nbn rollout No plan for a Central Coast Medical School and Medical Research Institute

BOATS FOR 800 DAYS

ILLEGAL ARRIVALS

Delivering 600 new jobs for Gosford CBD Over 27,000 homes and businesses across Robertson can now connect to the nbn Central Coast Medical School, bringing health and education innovation

No plan to fix local roads

Fixing dangerous and poor quality local roads where it’s needed

No money invested to address mobile phone black spots

Working with local communities to address mobile phone black spots

Labor’s record for Robertson speaks for itself. Only the Liberals are committed to delivering for Robertson. Authorised by Lucy Wicks MP, Level 3 Riverside Park, 69 Central Coast Highway, West Gosford NSW 2250

Skyla Wagstaff - Animal Justice Party understand the true value of Central Coast’s assets: our people, beaches and natural bush surroundings that provide our lifestyles, homes that we all love and treasure.

Our beautiful Coast is home to passionate people who constantly have to bring to light the ongoing bad decisions and consequences from current and former politicians. This greatly undervalues our broad community that is made of people of all ages and all abilities. We are a compassionate community who will grow stronger to defend and protect our most vulnerable, be it our Koalas and habitats of threatened species that our current Government fails to protect and also our beloved companion animals we share our homes with. We need real action and transparency within our Government to ensure a strong sustainable future for our Coast. I will deliver this with effective positive change that is focused with our key assets at centre and ensure our natural resources are protected. I will ensure an outstanding Community and Performing Arts Centre is finally underway along with well-designed community surroundings offering prosperous

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

ELECTION

Labor promises $100 million Advantage Fund and Job Action Plan “Jobs and education are inextricably linked; and we will grow the local economy by supporting local jobs and improving services at every level. “Our plan is comprehensive, integrated and workable from day one, but just to make sure, we’ll restore the position the Liberals got rid of, a Minister for the Central Coast,” Mr Foley said. “The Central Coast has a lifestyle envied by many,” Labor’s By-election candidate, Ms Liesl Tesch said. “But as a teacher, I was saddened to see so many of our young people left without job opportunities and work skills as the Liberals assaulted TAFE at every level. “We will reverse that. “This plan is designed to reverse years of neglect, neglect that started the day the Liberals took office six years ago. “Labor clearly has the interests of Gosford and the Central Coast at heart as this wide-ranging plan makes clear.”

he centrepiece of the Labor Party’s campaign for the Gosford By-election is the $100 million Advantage Fund and Job Action Plan, launched by NSW Opposition Leader, Mr Luke Foley, on March 27.

opportunities and culture enrichment. I will not let developments proceed without the full consultation with community and thorough assessment of biodiversity reports that fully investigates the impacts for both human health and species habitat. I will work to stop the $40 million Government handout to the Greyhound industry and retain the greyhound racing ban. I will support the NSW bill banning circuses that use animals. The ACT, many parts of Australia and over 30 countries have bans in place. The majority of the community object to this outdated use of animals held captive in unnatural small enclosures and forced to perform unnatural tricks. Media statement, 29 Mar 2017 Skyla Wagstaff, Animal Justice Party

PAGE 9 APRIL 6, 2017

The aim of the plan, according to Mr Foley, was to create jobs and regenerate industry in Gosford. The Advantage Fund would be used to attract large-scale business investment, and to work with local government and local companies to build on the region’s existing strengths. It would focus on key economic development areas including: Gosford CBD; Somersby Business Park; and, the West Gosford corridor. At present, 30,000 people travel out of the region for work each day. On top of that, unemployment on the Central Coast is 7.9 per cent, well above the State average and 1 in 5 young people are out of work. Mr Foley said that a Foley Labor Government’s Plan would immediately tackle job projects long overlooked by the Liberals. The Job Action Plan would provide $10 million, to be matched

dollar for dollar by Central Coast Council, for major infrastructure work to refurbish and upgrade regional centres, improve tourism and help the 20,000 small business operators on the Coast. Labor also pledged to help restore TAFE to give thousands of young people job skills.

“This is a well thought out Job Action Plan to attract jobs to Gosford and the Central Coast so that people have options and don’t have to travel long distances each day just to support their families,’ Mr Foley said. “This is a $100 million fund to transform lives,” he said.

Source: Media release, Mar 27, 2017 Maegen Sykes, office of Luke Foley

Unions NSW host By-election forum A forum held for the Gosford Byelection has highlighted the chronic problem of youth unemployment and underinvestment in skills, according to Unions NSW. The forum was held on Friday,

March 31, at Gosford Golf Club, and heard from 21-year-old local sales worker, Ms Lou Larkin, Shadow Attorney General, Mr Adam Searle, and Labor candidate for Gosford, Ms Liesl Tesch.

VOTE 1

ANDREW CHURCH BOYD, Abigail The Greens

CHURCH, Andrew Christian Democratic Party (Fred Nile Group) WAGSTAFF, Skyla Animal Justice Party

TESCH, Liesl Labor

FREEMAN, Larry

PILON, Jilly

Shooters, Fishers and Farmers

Liberal

Successful, skilled and experienced

The Conservative Alternative Authorised by Ian Smith, CDP 1 Wentworth St Parramatta 2150

Source: Media release, Apr 5, 2017 Nick Lucchinelli, Unions NSW

ABIGAIL BOYD FOR GOSFORD THE GREENS 5-POINT PLAN FOR WHAT MATTERS TO GOSFORD S S S S S

Affordable and accessible childcare Faster commutes Amazing playgrounds across the Central Coast University campus in Gosford Community power companies run by Council

CENTRALCOAST.NSW.GREENS.ORG.AU | ABIGAILBOYD.ORG

Authorised by T. Jones, 3 Baden Street, Killcare 2257 NSW.

The event was moderated by Unions NSW Assistant Secretary, Mr Thomas Costa. “Young people on the Coast deserve Governments that are on their side, but they are getting quite the opposite,” Mr Costa said. “Close to one in five young people on the Central Coast are jobless, and that doesn’t include many more who have given up looking for work. “At the same time, TAFE has been decimated, with teachers sacked and course fees hiked. “It’s harder than ever for young people on the Coast to get ahead. “The NSW Government is spending the vast majority of the proceeds of its privatisation program in Sydney, ignoring those who live beyond. “This is supercharging Sydney, but hollowing out the economy of the Central Coast. “Adding insult to injury are penalty rate cuts, supported by the Liberal Party. “The Gosford By-election is a clear opportunity to give the Liberals a wakeup call,” Mr Costa concluded.

PAGE 10 APRIL 6, 2017

ELECTION

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

Four By-election candidates agree to location of regional performing arts centre

Greens to continue to fight to restore TAFE reens candidate for the Gosford By-election, Ms Abigail Boyd, and Greens spokesperson for TAFE and Higher Education, Ms Dawn Walker, met Gosford TAFE union and staff members on Monday, April 3, to discuss the Greens’ ongoing support for public sector training.

Ms Boyd said she was passionate about restoring public funding to TAFE, to help provide pathways to employment for unemployed young people on the Central Coast, and to help fill the looming skills shortage that the community faces. “The Greens have limited parliamentary resources, but education is so important to us that we have allocated it to three MPs: Dawn Walker is responsible for TAFE and Higher Education; Tamara Smith for Schools, and Justin Field for Early Childhood”, Ms Boyd said. “On nearly a weekly basis, we have heard of private providers going bust, leaving students high and dry, often with large student

debts,” she said. “These private colleges have been raking in tax-payer funding that should have been maintaining TAFE as the world class vocational training institution it once was. “Every $1 put into TAFE gives a long-term return of $6.40 to the NSW government and an incalculable benefit to our local Coast community.” Ms Walker added: “The Greens believe that a well-funded and public TAFE system is vital to the future of New South Wales, but TAFE has been pushed to the brink by the current State Coalition’s budget cuts and privatisation agenda. “Since the introduction of their Smart and Skilled program in 2015, the Liberal-National Government has slashed funds to education and training by $1.7 billion, redirecting taxpayer funds into subsidising courses offered by private colleges with track records of money grabbing, poor teaching and abysmally low graduation rates. “Combined with large increases in student fees and the loss of over 2,500 TAFE teachers and support staff, it’s high time the

NSW Government realises that its shameful agenda to privatise vocational education is failing and restore funding to the public TAFE system.” The Greens at federal, state and local levels, have been campaigning for years to support TAFE, help local people find training that doesn’t involve long commutes or huge fees, and to restrict public funding to public trainers, Ms Walker said. She said she was determined to fix a broken system. “The Central Coast has a strong network of local TAFE campuses at Gosford, Ourimbah and Wyong that were set up to provide the community with skills and training right here on the Central Coast. “TAFE should be at the heart of skilling up our workforce and the Gosford by-election is a perfect opportunity for local voters to send the Coalition Government a clear message that TAFE matters by voting for Greens candidate, Abigail Boyd.” Source: Media release, Apr 3, 2017 Kate da Costa, Central Coast Greens

VOTE [1] ANDREW CHURCH 1) Reopen Services NSW (RMS/RTA) in Woy Woy. 2) Close the level crossing & build the underpass. 3) Build the Performing Arts Centre in Gosford.

The Conservative Alternative Authorised by Ian Smith, CDP 1 Wentworth St Parramatta 2150

Former Gosford Mayor and Liberal MP, Mr Malcolm Brooks, moved for the meeting to call for the remaining land at the school site to be used for the Performing Arts Centre

our of the six candidates standing in the April 8 Byelection for the State Seat of Gosford participated in a Gosford Waterfront Alliance community forum on Friday, March 31.

The aim of the forum was to focus on each candidate’s views about the future of the Gosford Waterfront and CBD. The meeting unanimously moved to pursue the location of a regional performing arts centre on the remaining land at the former Gosford Public School site. All candidates present committed their support to that resolution. It is understood Property NSW, the government-owned agency responsible for finding private developers to acquire the former school land, was expected to announce the successful tenderer to acquire the remaining twothirds of the school site within weeks following the by-election. The remaining two-thirds includes the land for the NSW Government Finance Department office block, but also a final tranche of vacant land that could be utilised for the community facility. Mr Andrew Church, candidate for the Christian Democratic Party, and Ms Jilly Pilon, candidate for the Liberal Party, were unavailable

to participate in the forum, which was held at the Anglican Church in Mann St, Gosford. The audience of over 80 residents was addressed by Ms Abigail Boyd for the Greens, Mr Larry Freeman for the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers, Ms Liesl Tesch for Labor and Ms Skyla Wagstaff for the Animal Justice Party. Ms Abigail Boyd said she had been frustrated, hopeful and then astounded “at the debacle over where the thing was going to go” in reference to the everchanging proposed locations for the performing arts centre. She said the development plans she had seen for the former public school land look “designed to drag the lifeblood out of the area” and that there were “plenty of half vacant buildings in the Gosford CBD” that could be used for the ATO and finance department workers. Ms Boyd said she believed the current NSW Government had “rushed to find a buyer for the remaining land so it could not be given over to the performing arts centre”. Ms Tesch called for the current NSW Government to disclose exactly what it intended to do with the remainder of the school land. She also suggested that the Central Coast Regional Development Corporation should be rebuilt and resourced to

take control of the future of the Gosford waterfront with ongoing community consultation. Mr Freeman and Ms Wagstaff also committed to consulting with and working with the community for the best outcomes on the waterfront. Source: Meeting notes, Mar 31, 2017 Gosford Waterfront Alliance Candidates’ Forum Jackie Pearson, journalist

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Your local Member Lucy Wicks voted against a bill to protect your penalty rates PENALTY RATE CUT T O HURT 11,138 WORKERS IN ROBERTSON “These cuts mean le ss take home pay for Central Coas t workers in pharmacy, retail, hospitality and food.” Media Release, S

enator Deborah O ’Neill 7 March 2017

Up to 11,138 hard-working locals will lose $77 a week. Authorised by Senator Deborah O’Neill, 4 Ilya Avenue, Erina 2250

PAGE 12 APRIL 6, 2017

ELECTION

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Liesl Tesch to fight for increased infrastructure spending SW Shadow Treasurer, Mr Ryan Parks, joined Labor’s candidate for Gosford, Ms Liesl Tesch, at Gosford Train Station, on Wednesday, April 5, to condemn the Berejiklian Government’s billion dollar infrastructure budget blowout.

Mr Parks and Ms Tesch both agreed that the Central Coast was starved of infrastructure funding, whilst major Sydney infrastructure projects like the leviathan WestConnex and the Sydney Metro and CBD Light Rail were running over budget. “Key projects like the much needed Woy Woy underpass have been mothballed because of the blowouts,” Mr Parks said. “The WestConnex project, for example, has overshot by $6.8 billion, with the latest revised budget coming in at $16.8 billion. “The Sydney Metro is now $1.5 billion more expensive after the Environmental Impact Statement released last week suggested that the budget would increase from $11 billion to $12.5 billion. “The purchase of an intercity train fleet will now cost taxpayers an extra $1.1 billion after the budget was increased from $1.6

Ms Liesl Tesch and Mr Ryan Parks at Gosford Train Station on April 5 Photo Dilon Luke

billion to $2.2 billion. “Embarrassingly, the cost blowout is necessary because the train carriages ordered by the Government are the wrong size

for the station platforms. “Similarly, the Premier’s chief vanity project, the CBD Light Rail, has blown its budget by $600 million.

Legacy widows in the outdoors

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egacy is for the families where the veteran’s health makes it difficult for him to support the family. When you enrol in Brisbane Water (NSW) Legacy Club we help you in many ways. Our Legacy Village provides affordable accommodation for independent living. For those of you living at home, Brisbane Water (NSW) Legacy Club assists with the in-the-home services, such as cleaning, lawn mowing and shopping. For all our widows, there are social clubs and entertainment, day trips and visits to the cinema. Holidays are catered for at the Legacy Holiday accommodation. Health is a priority service: medical, podiatry and dental care. Local travel needs are met. Our Legacy dependants with disabilities receive help to ensure that their living space is safe and healthy. We provide home modifications and, where needed, essential aids. Outings are also arranged for these dependants, with a combined Christmas party at the end of each year with our school children and Legatees. School children from Legacy families are provided with: school fees, uniforms, books, computers, excursion costs, pocket money and holiday camps. For those between 18-25 years, there are scholarships for future education. If you would like to join this veteran community phone 02 4323 4977 or visit our website www.legacy.com.au/brisbanewater

“This drain on resources means that the Coast’s $37 million school maintenance budget has also been left unaddressed,” Mr Parks continued.

Ms Tesch mirrored Mr Parks sentiments and said the Gosford electorate was sick of being taken for fools by the Liberal Government. “There is just an utter lack of respect for the Central Coast region and it is fantastic to see Ryan on the Coast to see what the region needs,” Ms Tesch said. Ms Tesch said that if elected, she would fight Sydney-centric funding and put Gosford and the Peninsula at the forefront of the infrastructure agenda. “We must pressure the government to stop delivering to Sydney and ignoring the Coast. “Even during the By-election campaign, the Premier was promising a Northern Beaches Tunnel project which will solely benefit the two Sydney electorates of North Shore and Manly. “That will cost a staggering $3 billion, and yet we are being denied the Woy Woy underpass,” Ms Tesch said. Mr Parks said Ms Tesch has been working night and day to earn the trust and respect of the voters and that he was confident Ms Tesch could bring much needed funding and government focus to the Central Coast region if elected. “We keep seeing billions

blown on projects that benefit only Sydney and it is regional communities like the Central Coast that miss out time and time again. “Liesl Tesch will fight hard for the community she loves, and if elected, she will continue to fight for what the community expects, and she won’t wait until 2019, she will get on with the job and make sure the government sees the Coast as the important region it is and ensure it is given some priority. “The Coast needs a local champion like Liesl Tesch to ensure it is not left behind,” Mr Parks concluded. The By-Election campaign is nearing its climax, but Ms Tesch said that regardless of the result, she felt proud of her efforts and said she loved being out and about in her community seeing and hearing firsthand the trials and tribulations of the electorate. Source: Media release, Apr 5, 2017 Peter Duggan, NSW Labor Interviews, Apr 5, 2017 Liesl Tesch, Labor’s candidate for Gosford By-election Ryan Park, NSW Shadow Treasurer Dilon Luke, Journalist

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LUCY WICKS MP

Federal Member for Robertson

Authorised and printed by Lucy Wicks MP, Level 3, 69 Central Coast Hwy, Gosford NSW 2250.

Level 3, 69 Central Coast Highway, Gosford NSW 2250 (02) 4322 2400

lucy.wicks.mp@aph.gov.au

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LucyWicksMP

PAGE 14 APRIL 6, 2017

ELECTION

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State Government to help fund Community Legal Centres and improve security at Gosford Courthouse iberal Candidate for Gosford, Ms Jilly Pilon, was joined by Attorney General, Mr Mark Speakman, on April 5, at Gosford Courthouse, to announce a $6 million funding package implemented over a two year period to ease the funding crisis of Community Legal Centres (CLCs) after the Federal Government decided it would not renew its CLC grants program.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;CLCs do incredible work helping the disadvantaged people with legal problems and the NSW Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s action will secure their services for the future following the non-renewal of a federal funding program,â&#x20AC;? Mr Speakman said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a major win for vulnerable and disadvantaged people across the state who rely on CLC lawyers for free advice on critical issues in both the civil and criminal spheres, ranging from domestic violence and victims support to debts and tenancy disputes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The NSW Government is stepping in to secure the immediate future of CLCs, while continuing to work towards a sustainable long-term solution,â&#x20AC;? Mr Speakman added. CEO of the NSW Council of Social

Attorney General Mr Mark Speakman announcing the funding package for Community Legal Centres outside Gosford Courthouse on April 5

Service, Ms Tracy Howe, said many CLCs across the state faced staff cuts and service reductions following the Federal Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s decision. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The State Government has really stepped up to the plate today to ensure justice services remain reliable and accessible to all NSW residents,â&#x20AC;? Ms Howe said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This funding will allow some of the most disadvantaged people and communities in NSW to retain access to the kind of legal assistance that can be life changing.

Liberal candidate for Gosford Ms Jilly Pilon announcing the security upgrades for Gosford Courthouse on April 5 Photos: Dilon Luke

â&#x20AC;&#x153;CLCs ensure everyday problems donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t become major health, financial or justice issues,â&#x20AC;? Community Legal Centres NSW Chair, Ms Linda Tucker said. Ms Tucker confirmed that without the State Government funding package, up to 30 positions throughout CLCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s across NSW were going to be lost. CLCs provide free legal help to 55,000 people each year at more than 30 locations in metropolitan, regional and rural NSW, including the Central Coast, with a facility based in Wyong.

Central Coast CLC spokesperson, Mr Nassim Arrage, said the NSW funding package would allow the only Central Coast based CLC to retain a full time solicitor endangered of losing their position thanks to the funding cut. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We help 6,000 Central Coast residents a year, and on average, we still have to turn away around 1,700 people, because we simply canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t meet the demand, so this funding package will ensure that at the very least, we can continue to service the Central Coast at the same rate that we have been,â&#x20AC;? Mr

Arrage said. Mr Speakman said the package ensured no CLC would be worse off in 2017-18 then they were in 2015-16. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The 55,000 free legal services across the State have been historically funded by the Federal Government but the NSW Government could not simply stand by as access to justice services fell into a vacuum. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re simply too important to lose,â&#x20AC;? Mr Speakman said. Ms Pilon said she was proud to be the Liberalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s candidate for Gosford following the funding announcement and also announced security upgrades for Gosford Courthouse. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Community justice and legal services are a vital part of the community and I am delighted that the State Government intervened to secure community legal services for the Central Coast and wider NSW. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I, along with Mark Speakman, am also thrilled to announce the installation of safer court room docks in Gosford and the appointment of an additional sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s officer,â&#x20AC;? Ms Pilon said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The new docks will bring Gosford Courthouse into line with many major metropolitan and regional courthouses across the State and improve safety for court users,â&#x20AC;? Mr Speakman said.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The secure dock will make it easier for Corrective Services to manage defendants in custody, particularly those charged with serious violent offences,â&#x20AC;? he added. The docks represent a $20,000 investment in safety for Gosford Courthouse and will be completed by the end of April. The additional sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s officer will also streamline efforts to improve safety for the building, with the new officer tasked with keeping court users safe in Gosford and Woy Woy. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Strengthening security at major NSW courthouses, such as Gosford, is a key priority for the NSW Government,â&#x20AC;? Mr Speakman said. The new sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s officer will bring the total number at Gosford to 15. Source: Press Conference, Apr 5, 2017 Mark Speakman, Attorney General NSW Jilly Pilon, Liberal candidate for Gosford By-election Tracy Howe, NSW Council of Social Service Linda Tucker, Community Legal Centres NSW Nassim Arrage, Wyong Community Legal Centre Dilon Luke, Journalist

Premier promises $23 million roads package remier Gladys Berejiklian joined Liberal candidate for the seat of Gosford, Ms Jilly Pilon, to announce a $23 million roads package for the Central Coast on March 22.

The projects to be funded as part of the NSW Government package include: $8 million to install new traffic lights on Koolinda Ave and Jirrah Ave, and create right turn lanes on Sunshine Dve and Sunnyside Ave, Point Clare; $2 million to improve safety along Brisbane Water Dve around Point Clare Public School, including the installation of safety barriers and pedestrian fencing near Talinga Ave and Takari Ave; and, $13 million to continue planning to improve Blackwall Rd and Memorial Ave between Maitland Bay Dve and Victoria Rd, Ettalong. The Brisbane Water Dve upgrade will improve safety for children around Point Clare School. “I’m pleased to also announce today that on top of this upgrade, Roads and Maritime Services has approved a school zone for Point Clare,” Ms Berejiklian said. “We have listened to the concerns of parents and will ensure this project is delivered,” Ms Pilon said. The Blackwall Rd upgrade would help ease traffic congestion. Drivers are travelling at less than 60 per cent of the posted speed limit during peak times. The $23 million package also includes funding to investigate options for a pedestrian footpath

between Collard Rd and Jirrah Ave, with work set to start soon. “The NSW Government is committed to improving the road network and the safety of pedestrians, cyclists and motorists, and these projects are crucial for the Central Coast,” Ms Berejiklian said. The Koolewong and Point ClareTascott Progress Association have welcomed Premier Berejiklian’s $23 million Central Coast roads upgrade package and Association honorary secretary, Ms Helen Orchard, said that there were several big wins for the community in the package, but said the Association is concerned over the lack of a designated location for the promised school zone. “The Koolinda Ave, Jirrah Ave, Sunshine Dve and Sunnyside Ave works are a big win for the Association, in particular for member Ms Jenny Carney, who took up a petition and painstakingly liaised with sporting bodies, scouts, girl guides, Fagan Park users, Orana Nursing Home, Fairhaven Services and surrounding residents in 2016 to have lights moved up to the intersection of Koolinda and Jirrah for use as traffic lights,” Ms Orchard said. Ms Orchard also said that the $2 million in funding to improve safety along Brisbane Water Dve, Point Clare Public School, Talinga Ave and Takari Ave is another big win for the community, but questioned whether this funding would come in addition to previously promised funds intended to improve safety on Brisbane Water Dve.

“Former Member for Gosford, Mr Chris Holstein, and Roads Minister Duncan Gay, promised $2 million in funding prior to the 2015 election for the corner of Penang Ave and Brisbane Water Dve. “This funding was diverted for use for expenses on the Brisbane Water Dve route study by the RMS. “This raises the question, are we getting an additional $2 million in funding? Ms Orchard also questioned whether or not the mentioned footpath for Brisbane Water Dve would mirror residents’ wishes and run on the Koolinda to Lorraine Ave side of Brisbane Water Dve as requested in the Associations RMS community meeting in August 2016. “Having the footpath on the Koolinda / Lorraine side of Brisbane Water Dve would allow parents to accompany their school children across Brisbane Water Dve from the Fagan Park side and children would not have to cross busy Brisbane Water Dve again to access Point Clare Public School,” Ms Orchard said. “We hope that all funding election promises by all parties standing will be honoured no matter which party takes out the By-election on the April 8. Sources: Media release, Mar 22, 2017 Stuart Wallace, Office of Gladys Berejiklian Email, Mar 24, 2017 Helen Orchard, Koolewong and Point Clare-Tascott Progress Association

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ELECTION

PAGE 15 APRIL 6, 2017

NSW Opposition Leader commits to reversing cuts to TAFE

Front fourth from left: Ms Pru Car, Shadow Minister for Skills, Ms Liesl Tesch Labor candidate for Gosford and Mr Luke Foley NSW Opposition Leader with TAFE protestors in Gosford

s part of the Gosford by-election campaign, NSW Opposition Leader, Mr Luke Foley, committed a future Labor State Government to reversing cuts to TAFE.

Mr Foley made the commitment at a protest rally in Gosford which was organised by TAFE teachers and students. “TAFE’s one of the great institutions of this state, it really is,” Mr Foley said. “What we have are enrolments declining here over the life of this government, 15,000 fewer TAFE students on the Central Coast than when this government came in six years ago, yet you’ve got 16 per cent youth unemployment, that’s just nuts,” he said. “Monster fee hikes, thousands of qualified TAFE staff gone, campuses closing, courses no longer being offered, all of that has decimated trades training and vocational education on the Central Coast, that’s why you have 15,000 fewer TAFE students,” he

said. The protestors were demonstrating against funding cuts that have led to the loss of 185 full time TAFE teacher jobs across the local institute, which includes teachers on the Central Coast. Mr Foley said that with nearly one in five young people on the Central Coast out of a job, it is a Government responsibility to train them and give them the skills for work, especially for jobs crucial to the Central Coast such as tourism and leisure, business, industry and agriculture. But sacking teachers, raising fees and cutting courses had led to a savage drop in enrolments at TAFE at a time when work skills were needed most. Liesl Tesch, candidate for Labor in the upcoming Gosford By-election said, “I know, as a teacher on the Central Coast, how important TAFE is for young students in our society and their futures, with unemployment so high, and less opportunities and higher prices. “I know that a lot of young

people can’t afford to go to TAFE,” Ms Tesch said. Mr Foley said the gutting of TAFE was indicative of the Liberals’ approach to most things on the Central Coast, an area that is neglected except at election time. Ms Prue Car, Shadow Minister for Skills, was also at the protest. Ms Car said, “People tell me everywhere that TAFE gave them a start in life, and now you’re lucky to be able to afford to enrol in a course. “We will make TAFE the great institution that it can be, and we will make opportunities again for young people to train, to get real skills, good jobs, apprenticeships, so that we can get them working in regions like the Central Coast to train for their futures,” Ms Car said. Source: Media release, Apr 3, 2017 Maegen Sykes, Office of Luke Foley Press conference, Apr 3, 2017 Luke Foley, Leader of the Opposition

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PAGE 16 APRIL 6, 2017

ELECTION

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Grant given to repair Cenotaph 4482 children at risk of significant harm on the Central Coast hadow Minister for Family and Community Services, Ms Tania Mihailuk, and Labor Candidate for Gosford By-electiojn, Ms Liesl Tesch, met with frontline Community Services caseworkers in Gosford on March 24 to discuss their concerns over the NSW Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cuts to frontline child protection services on the Central Coast.

Mr David Elliot and Ms Jilly Pilon (centre) with Mangrove Mountain locals at the Cenotaph

inister for Veterans Affairs, Mr David Elliott, was joined by the Liberal candidate for the Gosford By-election, Ms Jilly Pilon, in awarding a grant for the Mangrove Mountain Memorial Club on April 4.

The $2,000 grant, from the Ministerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s discretionary fund, was awarded to Mangrove Mountain Memorial Club for the repair and restoration of the war memorial, including repairing of the inscriptions. The Cenotaph is a sacred site for communities in the Mangrove Mountain and Kulnura districts. It is made of sandstone with an urn on top, surrounded by a

base of granite slabs and a small garden with a ďŹ&#x201A;agpole. The Honour Boards and new Digital Roll of Honour resonate with the history of the area and the pioneering families, many of whom still continue their traditional family farming after several generations. Ms Pilon welcomed Mr Elliottâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s visit to the area, noting the important role played by defence establishments and the local veteran community. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are very fortunate to have a strong defence presence in our community, which has brought families to the region over the years, with many of them choosing to remain,â&#x20AC;? she said. Mr Elliott said the Centenary of ANZAC is a signiďŹ cant time to receive a grant.

NorthConnex

1800 997 057 (free call) enquiries@northconnex.com.au

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Since the memorial was established in 1992 to replace the old Cenotaph at a previous location, the structure has deteriorated and needs to be cleaned, repaired and protected with a sealant,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The inscription, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;To Those Who Did Not Return, Lest We Forgetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, will likely need to be repaired by chiselling and then highlighted with white paint prior to sealing. â&#x20AC;&#x153;However, it is a timely period to receive such a grant as we commemorate the Centenary of ANZAC through a number of projects across the state,â&#x20AC;? Mr Elliot concluded. Source: Media release, Apr 4, 2017 Leigh van den Broeke, Office of David Elliot

PO Box 343 Pennant Hills NSW 1715 northconnex.com.au

According to quarterly released statistics, more than three in four children who have been reported to Community Services as being at risk of signiďŹ cant harm are not receiving a face-toface assessment from a frontline caseworker on the Central Coast. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the last two years alone, the NSW Liberal Government has cut a staggering 219 staff and $22 million from child protection

services throughout the state,â&#x20AC;? Ms Tesch said. On the Central Coast, the number of children reported to be at risk of signiďŹ cant harm has increased by 14 per cent between December 2013 and December 2016, from 3940 to 4482 children. Despite this increase, the number of full-time caseworkers on the Central Coast has been cut from 103 (December 2013) to just 91 (December 2016). Ms Tesch called on the Minister to meet with frontline caseworkers on the Central Coast so that she can understand the impact of this Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brutal cuts to frontline child protection services on the Central Coast. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Less than one in every four atrisk child is receiving a face-toface assessment from a frontline caseworker on the Central Coast. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the past three years, this government has removed 12 frontline caseworkers from the Central Coast despite the number of children at risk of signiďŹ cant

iberal candidate for the Gosford Byelection, Ms Jilly Pilon, was joined by Assistant Minister for Skills, Mr Adam Marshall, and TAFE NSW Managing Director, Mr Jon Black, at Gosford TAFE on Tuesday, March 21,

to make an announcement about a state-wide TAFE recruitment drive. The campaign will recruit 64 frontline educators for TAFE in the Hunter and Central Coast out of the 200 jobs that need ďŹ lling across regional NSW.

NorthConnex is a nine kilometre tunnel that will link the M1 PaciďŹ c Motorway at Wahroonga to the Hills M2 Motorway at West Pennant Hills, removing around 5,000 trucks off Pennant Hills Road. Tunnelling of the new underground motorway is well underway, with more than three of 21 kilometres of tunnels excavated and construction work advancing across the route. We would like to thank residents, businesses and motorists for their ongoing patience and support during construction.

Construction progress

There are currently 16 roadheaders excavating the tunnel from four sites along the route. The project teams at the tunnel sites at Wilson Road and Trelawney Street are establishing areas at the bottom of the shaft to build conveyor belts to remove the spoil, ventilation systems to extract the dust, and dedicated areas to assemble equipment after it is loaded down the shaft in pieces.

Information on current work is regularly updated at northconnex.com.au. Current activity includes:

Roadheaders at the Southern and Northern compounds are progressing at about ďŹ ve metres per day. Tunnel progress is updated weekly on the project website at northconnex.com.au.

â&#x20AC;˘ ongoing day and night work to build the tunnel entry and exit on the Hills M2 Motorway southbound shoulder near Pennant Hills Road â&#x20AC;˘ ongoing day and night work to build an additional westbound lane between Pennant Hills Road and Windsor Road on the Hills M2 Motorway â&#x20AC;˘ ongoing work to build permanent noise walls on the M1 PaciďŹ c Motorway and on the Hills M2 Motorway â&#x20AC;˘ preparation of the dive structures for the on and off ramps near Pennant Hills Road â&#x20AC;˘ ongoing day and night work to build support facilities, the ventilation outlet and tunnel exit on the M1 PaciďŹ c Motorway northbound shoulder.

Source: Media release, Mar 24, 2017 Julian Lee, Office of Tania Mihailuk

TAFE undertaking a Statewide recruitment drive

Construction Update March 2017

Tunnelling progress

harm increasing by almost 14 per cent during this period. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This government has turned its back on the frontline caseworkers of the Central Coast by asking them to do more work with less staff and fewer resources,â&#x20AC;? Ms Mihailuk said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Frontline child protection caseworkers on the Central Coast have been let down by a government which does not understand that cuts to child protection services lead to worse outcomes for at risk children. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I will be doing everything I can to support the frontline caseworkers on the Central Coast to ensure that the most vulnerable children in our community can get the support that they need from the State Government,â&#x20AC;? Ms Tesch said.

Contact the project team

The NorthConnex project team is committed to working closely with you to inform you of upcoming work and to minimise impact from our construction activities. For the latest information including tunnelling progress and our environment and community initiatives contact the team on 1800 997 057, enquiries@northconnex.com.au or visiting the NorthConnex Community Information Centre at 118 Yarrara Road, Pennant Hills, open Monday to Wednesday from 9am to 1pm.

Mr Marshall said the recruitment drive was a clear sign that the demand for skills based TAFE courses was continuing to grow on the Central Coast, especially in building and construction, and health and community services qualiďŹ cations. â&#x20AC;&#x153;TAFE NSW enrolments have skyrocketed, with enrolments 122,000 higher in October 2016, compared to the same time in 2015,â&#x20AC;? Mr Marshall said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As enrolments have increased, so has the demand for teachers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;TAFE NSW is now looking to employ more teachers in many areas. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The simple truth is that Labor left TAFE NSW in a mess with spiralling operating costs, duplication across the State and teachers grappling with crippling overheads, with anywhere between 40 and 60 cents in the dollar spent on administration. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The new One TAFE model, consolidating 10 separate institutes into one, will ensure taxpayer dollars are directed into frontline learning.â&#x20AC;? In 2015 and 2016, NSW Government policy changes, including Fee Free Scholarships, capping apprenticeships at $2000 and traineeships at just $1000, have helped to drive up enrolments and demand for teachers. Advertisements have appeared online and across local press, with more vacancies set to be advertised over the coming months. Source: Media release, Mar 21, 2017 Jonathon Moore, office of Adam Marshall

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ONTHEBEAT PAGE 15 APRIL 6, 2017

Witnesses intervene in domestic violence incident olice have charged a man with an alleged domestic violence assault after responding to a crash on the Central Coast in March.

Just before midday on Monday, March 27, police attended the Pacific Mwy near the Kariong on-ramp after a Nissan X-Trail crashed into a stationary truck and hit the median strip. Police were told a man in the Nissan began assaulting the passenger, a 36-year-old woman, before a passing truck driver stopped and went to her aid. The 45-year-old man was held

by witnesses until the arrival of police a short time later, who placed him under arrest. The woman was taken to Gosford Hospital where she was treated for minor injuries. The man was taken to Gosford Police Station where he was charged with choking and negligent driving. He was refused bail to appear at Gosford Local Court on March 28. Police allege the incident was domestic violence related.

Anyone with information about these incidents should call

Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000

At about midday on Saturday, March 25, police were called to a home on Dunbar Way, following reports a man was tied up at the location. Police attended and found a 56-year-old man tied up and suffering head and chest injuries. The man was treated by emergency services and taken

Roads and Maritime Services will be working to create safer roads for motorists and to reduce ongoing maintenance costs. Work is scheduled to start April 9 and is expected to take four weeks to complete. Work will be carried out between

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.

Issue 113 March 28, 2017

Your independent community newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369

and was given conditional bail. Following further inquiries, a 29-year-old man was also arrested and taken to Gosford Police Station on Sunday, March 26. He has been charged with cause grievous bodily harm to person with intent and kidnap in company. He was refused bail and appeared before Gosford Local Court on Monday, March 27.

7pm and 5am Sunday through Thursday to reduce the impact of the roadworks on motorists. Source: Media release, Apr 5, 2017 Roads and Maritime Services

Rally to be held outside Planning Assessment Commission public hearing The Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council has vowed to continue its fight against the proposed Wallarah 2 Coal Project.

Over $1 billion worth of development applications determined by merged Council The Central Coast Council has determined 3,000 development applications since it was created in May 2016, worth over $1 billion to the economy of the new Local Government Area (LGA).

The most iconic remnants of the Lake Munmorah Power Station, the two 155 metre chimney stacks, were demolished on Sunday, March 26, as part of site clearing works.

Coal being dumped from trucks needs to be closely monitored

Council and TWU reach agreement over workers’ pay and entitlements

Delta Electricity deny evidence of leaching from ash dam

Not-for-profit legal centre, Environmental Justice Australia (EJA), will continue to closely monitor Vales Point Power Station until the plant’s operator, Delta Electricity, stops dumping coal from trucks onto outdoor stockpiles.

The Transport Workers Union (TWU) and Central Coast Council participated in confidential mediation on March 24, at the request of the Minister for Local Government, Ms Gabrielle Upton.

Delta Electricity claim that there is no evidence of leaching from the Vales Point Ash Dam (VPAD) into the groundwater table.

Garbage truck operators held a 24hour stoppage

Biocertifi cation project underway at Warnervale

Domestic garbage bins remained full across the Coast on Thursday, March 23, as the local Remondis garbage truck operators held a 24-hour stoppage as part of their ongoing campaign to keep current...

A strategic lands biocertification project, under the Threatened Species Conservation Act (TSC Act 1995), is underway on approximately 523 hectares of land at Warnervale.

Former councillor breaks gag rule Former independent Wyong Councillor and Mayor, Mr Greg Best, was still waiting to hear, on Monday, March 27, if he was to be removed from Central Coast Council’s Local Representation Committee.

Source: Media release Mar 27, 2017 NSW Police Media

Change in traffic conditions on Avoca Drive otorists are being advised of a change in traffic conditions due to essential maintenance work in early April on Avoca Dve near Elvy’s Ln at Kincumber.

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

Information provided will be treated in the strictest of confidence.

Source: Media release, Mar 27, 2017 NSW Police Media

to Gosford Hospital in a serious condition with suspected collapsed lungs and broken ribs. Officers from Brisbane Water Local Area Command began investigations, and on Saturday afternoon, a 29-year-old woman was arrested and taken to Gosford Police Station. She was charged with cause grievous bodily harm to person with intent and kidnap in company. She appeared before Gosford Local Court on Sunday, March 26,

Coast Community News focuses on news specifically relating to post code areas 2250, 2251 & 2260.

or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: http://www1.police.nsw.gov.au/

Couple charged over serious assault and kidnap man and woman have been charged after the serious assault and alleged kidnap of another man in North Gosford in March.

Other Regional News - In brief

Iconic chimney stacks demolished

Wyong Regional Chronicle focuses on news specifically relating to post code areas 2258, 2259, 2261, 2262, & 2263. The full articles and more can be seen on our website www.centralcoastnews.net

e Frkeeone! Ta

Edition 416

Correa Bay closed after sewage discharge

3 April 2017

Ettalong channel not listed in State dredging strategy

Correa Bay boat ramp and the adjoining The Brisbane Water channel has not been foreshore area were closed after the listed in the NSW Government’s dredging discharge of sewage into the bay during strategy. a severe thunderstorm on Wednesday, March 22

Applications for committee membership Central Coast Council has received 51 applications from business and community members for three membership positions on its new Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee.

Waste contractor welcomes agreement

Government to trial cashless kiosk in place of registry

Senator Deborah O’Neill has welcomed the agreement local workers and their union have reached with the Central Coast Council to end the garbage truck drivers’ deadlock.

Following rolling strikes, Central Coast Council’s waste collection contractor has welcomed an agreement between the Transport Workers’ Union and the Council on the future terms and conditions for local garbage truck drivers.

The NSW Government has announced it will trial a cashless “digital Services NSW kiosk” in Woy Woy in coming weeks to provide community access following the 2015 closure of the Woy Woy Motor Registry.

By-election on April 8

Unions NSW by-election campaign

Candidates’ forum in Woy Woy

O’Neill welcomes garbage agreement

The by-election for the Gosford electorate Unions NSW held a Gosford by-election Residents were given an opportunity to takes place on Saturday, April 8. campaign launch at the Everglades hear from candidates in the Gosford byCountry Club on March 21. election at a forum in Woy Woy on Sunday, April 2.

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

PAGE 18 APRIL 6, 2017

FORUM

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Liberal Party advertisement is offensive write to express my deep disappointment at your publication for publishing the Liberal Party advertisement on page 14 of Coast Community News, March 23, that falsely claims that under the Labor government “50,000 illegal arrivals”.

FORUM treaty to which Australia is a signatory, is not and cannot be “illegal”, and your paper should have refused to publish, since the term illegal is a falsity in relation to people seeking asylum in Australia. Not one single person seeking asylum has been charged with

Seeking asylum under the UN

an offence of illegal arrival since no such offence exists under Australian law. Ms Wicks knows this and she is promoting fear of asylum seekers, and, by association, racial fears. The advertisement is deeply offensive and does your paper no credit for having published it. Letter, Apr 3, 2017 Phil Hewett, East Gosford

Our country is not for sale at any price t is no wonder that the people of Australia are totally disillusioned by any government here, as they allow our nation to be sold off.

Our farmers are under the thumb and the youngsters are, in some circumstances, committing

FORUM suicide. Our jobs are going overseas for cheap labour, our industries are non-existent. Holden Australia gone, footwear and clothing industries gone, Energy Australia gone, water

companies gone. When are we going to learn that our country is not for sale at any price? It won’t be long before we are also gone, to be slaves of the rest of the world. Email, Dec 13, 2016 Robert Findley, Point Clare

Proposed Biodiversity Corridors fraught with danger

ake a closer look at figure 9, Proposed Biodiversity Corridors, in the Central Coast Regional Plan 2036. Remember, this is a Regional Plan, supported by Mr Scot Macdonald, Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast. Did he read it? I do not know the citizen’s science definition of a wildlife corridor, but I know the basics. I still believe they apply. The plan has a unique, proposed biodiversity corridor extending from East Gosford-Point

FORUM Frederick, crossing the Brisbane Water Estuary to Point Clare and Tascott, avoiding marinas and the fast ferry. There are other anomalies, not as noticeable as the Brisbane Water Estuary Biodiversity Corridor. I look forward to reading the scientific research that supports this proposal. I expect that property owners and residents in the Point Frederick area will be interested in this proposal, especially for

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property valuations. If wildlife can negotiate developed areas, roads, traffic, Brisbane Water Estuary. Brisbane Water Dve, the north-south rail line and any number of obstacles and survive, it can be argued that species have a higher intelligence than previously recorded. Action 12:1 in the plan said: “Identify terrestrial and aquatic biodiversity values and protect areas of high environmental value”. My response is: “With the loss of huge areas of biodiversity, all remaining biodiversity is of high environmental value and should be protected and maintained”. How many residents have closely looked at Figure 9 and the proposed biodiversity corridors? Will closer scrutiny reveal similar errors in the plan? Letter, Mar 30, 2017 Norman Harris, Umina

Gosford the gateway to Asia? he Billion Dollar waterfront proposal was touted as a world-class project that aims to transfer Gosford into the gateway to Asia, but I believe that Darwin NT, is the gateway to Asia.

If the billion dollar waterfront proposal is the gateway to Asia, then the future of the project should be decided by the State

FORUM and Federal Government, not the Central Coast Council. Needless to say, there will be community opposition, as the Gosford waterfront disappears forever. Open space will be the waterway, not the waterfront. The international research required to test this development is beyond the tenure of Ian

Reynolds and the resources of both combined LGA staff. Does the Central Coast Council have diplomatic staff? If Gosford can be the gateway to Asia, it follows that Darwin, NT, can be the gateway to the Central Coast NSW. Geography is being rewritten, teachers take note. Letter, Mar 6, 2017 Norman Harris, Umina

Dogs get better treatment than humans n May 2016, I was diagnosed by my doctor as having an inguinal hernia, which was later confirmed in April by a Central Coast specialist.

As I did not at the time have (couldn’t afford) private cover, I was informed that the Health Department’s policy is to place persons in my predicament on the public waiting list for a maximum term of 365 days.

FORUM I was also informed that if I opted to have it done in Sydney, the waiting time would be six months instead of 12. As it turns out, I was able to have the procedure done on March 20. In that time, the hernia had increased from 6mm to 10mm and was increasingly causing me considerable discomfort. I wish to add here that I find

it ironic and laughable that on watching an animal hospital show on TV during my waiting period, I found it interesting to note a stray dog handed in to the pound diagnosed with the very same condition was operated on within a fortnight. All I have to say is come on Australia, isn’t it time we looked after our own. Email, Mar 23, 2017 John Ross, Point Clare

Parking issues on the Waterfront think it is time to give the Eat Street Café on the Gosford boat ramp car park the flick and for the boaties to reclaim their parking.

Too many boats use this area to include parking for the pie shop. Cars are double parked in the one bay leaving no other alternative than to find parking elsewhere. I for one and other residents are fed up with the boaties parking

their trailers and vehicles on the nature strips along Masons Pde, Point Frederick and illegally facing the other direction, and half on the nature strip. They take up valuable parking for the coffee shops and Legacy Home guests. We need constant checks on this area by the police and or parking police, especially on weekends and holidays. Email, Feb 12, 2017 Steven King, Point Frederick

VOTE [1] ANDREW CHURCH 1) Reopen Services NSW (RMS/RTA) in Woy Woy. 2) Close the level crossing & build the underpass. 3) Build the Performing Arts Centre in Gosford.

The Conservative Alternative Authorised by Ian Smith, CDP 1 Wentworth St Parramatta 2150

FORUM Letters to the editor should be sent to:

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FORUM PAGE 19 APRIL 6, 2017

Bring back Kibble Small window of opportunity left for Park Fountain to PAC to go on former school site its former glory s a teen working in Gosford, I would often sit and enjoy my lunch on the seat of the Kibble Park Fountain.

I note last year that the $170,000 which was set aside to bring the fountain back to its former glory was used to paint garbage bins and poles grey, a grey selected in 2010. Yes, a colour selected seven years ago. I note with interest that some of the bins are painted, yet others are still to undergo their ‘revitalisation’. I call on Central Coast Council to

FORUM bring back to its former glory the Kibble Park Fountain so current workers can sit by the fountain and enjoy their lunch. I know of many locals who, when they were younger, had their photos taken by the fountain and even remember post cards with the Kibble Park Fountain on them. The Kibble Park Fountain is iconic to Gosford, let’s bring it back to its former glory rather than waste money on changing the colours of garbage bins. Email, Mar 26, 2017 Joy Cooper, Green Point

Central Coast turning into Sydney

moved to the beautiful Central Coast nearly 20 years ago, in order to get away from the noisome mess that is Sydney, but now, what do I find? The place is really run by developers, who, with the tacit approval of our MPs and their party bosses, are turning the joint

FORUM into another Sydney. The Central Coast has a quiet beauty of its own, and it must be preserved for the sake of our children and our children’s children. Email, Dave Horsfall, North Gosford

The next few days and weeks could be the last chance for sensible decision making in respect of the proposed (regional) entertainment/performing arts centre on Gosford waterfront. Once sold, the school site will be forever lost for community use. As far back as 2006, Gosford Council identified the waterfront as the ‘jewel in Gosford’s crown’ and the public school site as a possible location for a performing arts centre in the Gosford Waterfront Strategy 2006. During 2008-2009, Council and the NSW Government undertook extensive community consultation in respect of plans to revitalise Gosford CBD. The consultation process itself, The Challenge, won an award. The outcome of this consultation was the Our City Our Destiny masterplan, which was adopted by Gosford Council, endorsed by some 84 per cent of surveyed local residents, and endorsed by Mr Tony Kelly, Minister for Planning, on behalf of the NSW Government. Unfortunately, Gosford Council failed to carry that plan into its statutory planning regime (LEP + DCP) which opened the door to a new government to supersede Gosford Council’s planning powers using a 24-hour State Environmental Protection Policy (SEPP) to rezone the waterfront land and open the way for the

FORUM Letters to the editor should be sent to:

COAST COMMUNITY

NEWS PO Box 1056 Gosford 2250 or editorial@centralcoastnews.net

See Page 2 for contribution conditions mixed use developments we are now seeing. Various interventions by government agencies, ego-driven mayors, CEOs and politicians have pushed and pulled the entertainment and performing arts precinct in varying directions, as have employment-generating promises made by unelected political hopefuls, the Central Coast Regional Development Corporation (CCRDC, a quasigovernment department under Planning NSW, describing itself as ‘real estate developer’) and Gosford Council. To the present: a small window of opportunity remains to achieve the community’s vision for an iconic entertainment / performing arts precinct on the former school site. That opportunity will expire in days or weeks, as soon as the NSW Government signs an

Email, Apr 4, 2017 Kevin Armstrong, Tumbi Umbi

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shale of the creek bed, then the Stadium’s large cost over-runs, especially for the footings for the lighting towers, then the Leagues Club extension back to Baker St, months of driving hundreds of 15m long concrete piles into the ground. An entertainment / performing arts centre is also likely to stimulate many creative jobs so that the economic driver of job creation is not lost to Gosford by this initiative. The Central Coast is really blessed with so many people engaged in the creative arts. From a practical perspective, the project would be capable of being completed much more quickly on the former school site than on Crown Land, believed subject to an Aboriginal land claim. Those negotiations could go on for years and may well jeopardise funding from any of the three contributing partners. The issue of the location of the entertainment / performing arts precinct has been dragged around for ages and remains unresolved. Were Labor to strongly support the location on the former school site, I believe it’s highly likely that the Liberals would match that commitment.

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agreement with a developer for the NSW Finance offices already approved (a DA creates no obligation to build). I’m still hopeful that Council would take the initiative to site the entertainment / performing arts precinct on the remainder of the former school site. Late last week (March 31), Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Mr Scot MacDonald, said the remainder of the school site (ex DOMA / ATO) was still NSW government property and no deal had yet been done. That being the case, if it moved quickly, Central Coast Council could possibly negotiate purchase of the site at a ‘community use’ price in accordance with the Our City Our Destiny Master Plan. It makes little difference to the bottom line if Council pays for the school site (and gets much higher, drier land with much enhanced building potential) or ‘buys’ the Leagues Club Field site at a peppercorn price, then pays out mega dollars in additional construction costs, building on a reclaimed tidal swamp. I am sure Council can negotiate a minimal-transfer-cost / community-use deal with the government, especially during a by-election. I know the history of building the rear office section of the former BWCC building, hundreds of timber piles driven into the

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PAGE 24 OUT&ABOUT APRIL 6, 2017

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Fireworks, exhibitions and entertainment galore at Regional Show

Council encourages you to report a tosser entral Coast Council is throwing its support behind the state-wide campaign to stop littering.

Hey Tosser! is all about raising awareness about the impacts of littering on the local environment, and changing the behaviour of litterers. Litter can damage the environment, harm wildlife, cause safety issues in open spaces as well as injuries to people. Council Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, said everyone can play their part in helping to reduce the amount of litter. “By working together, we can all help keep the Coast clean,” Mr Reynolds said.

he 2017 Central Coast Regional Show will be held at the Gosford Showgrounds on Saturday, April 29 and Sunday, April 30.

Exhibitions will include art and photography, baking, cake decorating, knitting and crochet, lapidary and gemstones, and spinning and weaving. The show will provide a huge two days of entertainment and fun for the entire family, including IWA wrestling, a canine roadshow,

Troppo magic, Plantasarus Rex, Medieval Combat, a grand concert organ, horse events, pet parade and the teen showgirl competition. The traditional fireworks display will complete the day’s adventures at 6:00pm Saturday. Don Burke from ‘Burkes Backyard’ will also make an appearance on the Saturday. “Changes made due to the loss of the horticulture pavilion fire mean that stage entertainment at this year’s show will be held in a marquee on the concourse and on the trackside stage.

Cats, rabbits, fruit and vegetables, orchids and permaculture exhibitions will be on display in the Dwyer Pavilion. Schools’ farm animals, the petting animal nursery and chicken competition will be held in the lower Dwyer Pavilion while all other displays will be sited as normal. Source: Media release, Mar 30, 2017 Roma Stonestreet, Central Coast Regional Show

“Council is using community education to help control littering, and works such as gross pollutant traps to capture litter before it enters our waterways. “We also support the Take 3 initiative, which encourages everyone to clean up three pieces of litter when they visit a beach or park. “We live in such a beautiful part of the country. “That’s why Council is also supporting the NSW EPA and encouraging you to report a tosser if you see them littering, especially from their car,” Mr Reynolds added. Roadside litter is one of the most unnecessary and preventable environmental problems.

When people litter from their cars, it ends up in the drainage system, which leads to the major waterways and can create all sorts of environmental problems for the flora and fauna that call the Coast’s local waterways home. The NSW EPA can issue fines of up to $250 for an individual and $500 for a corporation for littering from a vehicle, based on reports from members of the public. Find out how you can report a tosser littering from their vehicle by visiting: www.epa.nsw.gov.au/ heytosser Source: Media release, Mar 27, 2017 Central Coast Council Media

Studio Salvage launched at Wyoming osford Regional Community Services has launched Studio Salvage, a social enterprise which creates and sells sustainable repurposed goods and homewares from recycled materials.

Interested parties may view products, which include bee hotels, chalk boards, garden beds and boomerang bags at the Wyoming Community Centre. All funds raised through Studio Salvage will be funnelled into community greening programs including the Wyoming and Point

Clare Community Gardens and the Wingello Creek Regeneration. The Studio Salvage group meets every second Friday. Source: Newsletter, Mar 30, 2017 The Link, Gosford Regional Community Services

Australian Spirit collaborative project year three launched he third year of the Australian Spirit collaborative project was launched at the Gosford Regional Gallery, on Saturday, April 1.

The Australian Spirit project groups a local defence force veteran with a local visual artist and a poet. The veteran’s story is then told using visual arts and poetry. The works are then exhibited around the Central Coast and collated into a full colour publication. The exhibition commenced touring the Coast following its two-day stint at the Community Gallery. It will be at the Art Studios Cooperative Gallery in Mann St, North Gosford, from April 5 to 16. A selection of works from the gallery will be shown in the Davistown RSL foyer from April 10 to 16 and in the Erina Central Foyer from April 18 to 23. Australian Spirit will conclude on ANZAC Day with displays in the

foyers of RSL Clubs throughout the Central Coast. The fourth and final year of the project will include a magazine and a book collating all the stories and art works from the four year life of the project. “Australian Spirit 2015 and 2016 have confirmed the need for this project and its value as a substantial community project,” said spokesperson and artist, Ms Leasha Craig. “It has attracted a total of 169 active participants to date and the support of over 20 associations, organisations and local businesses. “The momentum that the Australian Spirit project has and is gathering is quite astounding with participating artists, poets, photographers, veterans and the community championing the project and offering their assistance with the future year’s undertaking,” she said. Source: Media release, Mar 29, 2017 Leasha Craig, Australian Spirit

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OUT&ABOUT PAGE 25 APRIL 6, 2017

Blues on the Mountain 2017 is a two day event lues on the Mountain returns in 2017 with its biggest event yet.

For the first time ever, Blues on the Mountain will feature live music on both Saturday and Sunday nights and at two different historic locations. Saturday night at Mangrove Mountain Heritage Hall on May 13, features one of Australia’s hottest live Rhythm and Blues acts, The Swamp Stompers, plus multiaward winning singer songwriter and guitarist, Toby Wells. On Sunday, May 14, in the grounds of the historic Mangrove Mountain Union Church, the inaugural Blues on the Mountain Mother’s Day Picnic will feature Central Coast songbirds, The Little Quirks Band. The Swamp Stompers have performed at major music festivals all around Australia, including Byron Bay Bluesfest, Wollombi Music Festival, and Blues at Bridgetown (WA) to name a few, and Blues on the Mountain is stoked to have them headlining in what will be the band’s last show before an indefinite hiatus whilst lead guitarist and singer, Cory Legge, heads overseas to tour Europe. The Swamp Stompers combine slide and electric guitar,

The Swamp Stompers

didgeridoo, bass and drums with catchy lyrics to bring together a high energy vibe that’s impossible not to dance to. Lead vocalist and guitarist, Corey Legge, is one of only a handful of artists to be endorsed by Cole Clarke guitars, and has been described by guitar legend, Lloyd Spiegel, as “A creative and highly skilled professional, he has all the talent, hunger and attitude to become one of Australia’s

best.” Toby Wells has had a huge year, with the release of his debut EP, supporting artists such as Thirsty Merc, 19-Twenty and the Radiators, along with being selected to perform at Mitchell Creek Rock n Blues Festival (Qld). Toby has been one of our most requested acts at Blues on the Mountain, and has a special show planned for the night. Sunday is all about Central

Coast songbirds and Blues on the Mountain favourites, The Little Quirks Band. Set amongst the picturesque grounds of the historic Mangrove Mountain Union Church, sit back and enjoy Mum’s special day with a country style morning tea and picnic lunch, whilst listening to the fantastic Little Quirks Band, performing live from 11:30am. Gates open at 11am, and tickets cost just $5 per person or $10 for a family pass. All funds raised from the event go towards the upkeep of the Mangrove Mountain Union Church. Blues on the Mountain is entirely run by volunteers and is now in its fifth year. The event has also raised much needed funds for the restoration and upkeep of our local heritage buildings, Fairview Homestead and Mangrove Mountain Heritage Hall. Blues on the Mountain is an all ages, family friendly event, so gather your friends and family together and look forward to a great night of live music at Mangrove Mountain Hall. Source: Media release, Apr 3, 2017 Ryan Howard, Blues on the Mountain

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PAGE 26 APRIL 6, 2017

NOT FOR PROFIT ORGANISATIONS DIRECTORY

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

CENTRAL COAST 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

FELLOWSHIP OF AUSTRALIAN WRITERS A friendly and supportive group for new and old writers. Encouragement and critique of work. Workshops and competitions 10am 3rd Sun Conference rm. Gosford Hotel 4363 2627 centralcoastfaw@live.com

COMMUNITY GROUPS ABC - “The Friends” Support group for Public Broadcaster. Aims. safeguard ABC’s independence, funding, & standards. Meetings through the year + social afternoons Well-known guest speakers 4341 5170 www.fabcnsw.org.au

BIG FUTURES IN SCHOOL MENTOR PROGRAM Become a volunteer mentor 2 hrs/ week, Free Training, No qualifications needed Be a young persons champion 0413 624 529 www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.au/ bigfutures

CENTRAL COAST COMMUNITY LEGAL CENTRE Not for profit org in Wyong providing free legal advice. Intake times for legal advice Monday to Friday 9am-5pm 4353 4988 centralcoast@clc.net.au

CENTRAL COAST SOCIAL GROUP Social contact, entertainment events, new friendships, for 30’s-60’s - Live music, house parties, dinners, BBQs, picnics, trips away etc. Monthly Meet & Chat 0422 243 101 cco30s@live.com.au

CENTRAL COAST 50+ SINGLES SOCIAL GROUP Invites Ladies & Gents for dinner, dancing - BBQs & socialising each w/e. Friendly group monthly programme all areas 0412 200 571 0437 699 366 50pssg@gmail.com

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Share friendship, social activities COASTAL A CAPPELLA Dynamic award winning as well as fundraising for local, women’s a cappella chorus www.centralcoast. national and international (Singles over 55) new members betterhearingaustralia.org.au projects. 3rd Mon, 12noon Luncheons Handicraft, Painting, Knitting, Tai always welcome. Terrigal 50+ leisure centre, 1st and 3rd Sundays monthly Chi, Scrabble, Darts, Table Tennis, Music eduction provided Duffy Rd Terrigal at various licensed venues Indoor Bowls, Patchwork, Yoga, CENTRAL COAST PROSTATE Lots of Performance 4369 0302 - 4384 1490 43321 695 (after 2pm) CANCER SUPPORT GROUP opportunities, or hire us Fitness, Gentle Swimming, Line terigalinnerwheel@gmail.com for your next event. Dancing, Cards, Variety Social, (GOSFORD) 0412 948 450 Womens Group, Zumba, Crochet, GOSFORD NORTH Meet last Friday Month LIONS CLUB OF WOY WOY coastalacappella@gmail.com Computers Terrigal Uniting Church PROBUS CLUB 1st and 3rd Mon. Woy Woy 4304 7065 380 Terrigal Dre, Terrigal Meets 4th Tuesday at the Grange Leagues Club 9.30am to 12 noon SOUNDWAVES Hotel Monthy meeting 4th Make new friends and have fun 4367 9600 GOSFORD-NARARA Men’s acapella 4 part harmony Tuesday Grange Hotel 10am while serving your community. www.pcfa.org.au chorus - all ages 7pm Mon 43225560 NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE 0478 959 895 Central Coast Leagues Club School Holiday activities, Kieran 0407 267 675 CENTRAL COAST PROSTATE playgroup, multicultural NORTHERN SETTLEMENT Rotary Club of khutton58@gmail.com SERVICES - VOLUNTEERS programs, community activities - CANCER SUPPORT GROUP Gosford North jbthomson51@gmail.com Rooms for Hire (WYONG) Volunteers needed for friendly Active community minded club. 4329 4477 Meet last Monday Month visits to the elderly in nursing Many projects focussed on SYDNEY WELSH CHOIR admin@gnnc.com.au Toukley RSL Club homes. People with a second assisting youth. Support our great Cultural organisation performing Homes Ave Toukley language encouraged to apply. projects, get involved with our fun at various venues to promote GREEN POINT COMMUNITY 10.00am to 12 noon Training support provided club. Graham Black the Welsh culture with singing, 4356 9300 4334 3877 CENTRE 0410 509 071 Also performing for charity fund www.pcfa.org.au cvscc@nsservices.com.au OOSH cave, exersize classes, grahamblack@iprimus.com.au raising. school holiday programs, 4369 3378 PROBUS CLUB OF AVOCA playgroup, arts & craft, room hire, DYING WITH DIGNITY NSW, ROTARY CLUB OF and much more. 10.15am 3rd Mon CENTRAL COAST KARIONG/SOMERSBY TEMPO TERRIFIC 4367 7591 Avoca Beach Bowling Club Working to give those International service club COMMUNITY SHOWBAND 4382 3372 suffering unrelievedly from improves lives of communities Active showband available to www.probussouthpacific.org/ KARIONG NEIGHBOURHOOD terminal or incurable illness in Australia and overseas. Funplay at your community function. microsites/avocabeach the legal right to request & CENTRE filled activities, fellowship and Wide ranging repertuore. Always receive medical help to die Early childhood clinic, free family friendship breakfasts. Phillip seeking new members, come and SENIORS COMPUTER Quarterly Meetings law advice, active playgroup, House, 21 Old Mount Penang Rd have fun with music. Follow us on 4369 8053 CLUB CENTRAL COAST INC. computer classes, OOSH services, (opp Shell) - Fri 7:15am Facebook - Every Mon 5 - 7pm fitness classes, arts & crafts, Classes Mon to Fri for over 50 4340 4529 Kincumber Uniting Church over 50’s friendship group, youth Basics: Mon , Tues and Thurs GAMBLING SOLUTIONS kersuebay@philliphouse.com.au 4365 4414 group, social groups and many 10am to 12noon Counsellors provide free, www.tempoterrific.com more services. Different programs every day, confidential, professional service tempoterrific@live.com 4340 1724 10am - 12noon or 1-3pm to gamblers, family and friends. wwww.knc.net.au Apple-Mac: Mon, Tues, Wed Woy Woy, Kincumber, Gosford, BIZ PLUS NETWORKING All at Kincumber Neighbourhood The Entrance. ASSOCIATION Centre 4344 7992 KINCUMBER Attention business owners - if CENTRAL COAST GREENS 02 4307 9421 NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE you keen to grow your business The Central Coast Greens GROW Support Groups • Exercise classes and in the process build For a fairer, more transparent and Small friendly groups formed to TERRIGAL WAMBERAL • Yoga for adults and children worthwhile relationships, attend a accountable government based learn how to overcome anxiety, • Community eco garden RSL SUB-BRANCH Biz Networking breakfast. on democratic principles depression and loneliness and to At Breakers Country Club pension • Room hire Every Thur 7:15am - 9am Local, state-wide, national improve mental health and welland welfare officers available to • Health support groups Erina Leagues Club and international issues and being. Anonymous, free and open assist with DVA compensation • Counselling Geoff Neilson campaigns Council and to all. Weekly at Woy Woy, Bateau • After school activities claims and benefits network@bizplus.com.au parliamentary representation Bay and Wyong 4363 1044 Wed & Fri 10am – Midday Developing a new economy 1800 558 268 www.kincumber.nsw.au Meetings 2nd Sat 10am CCLC BRIDGE CLUB Protecting our environment www.grow.org.au 43842661 Duplicate Bridge-partner not Peaceful conflict resolution rsl@breakerscc.com.au MINGALETTA ABORIGINAL required for most sessions. Community participation MEALS ON WHEELS Central Coast Leagues Club TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER We meet monthly every 3rd Delicious meals delivered free U3A CENTRAL COAST 12.30pm Mon, Tue, Thur, Fri. CORPORATION Thu - Details and info: Join us for a midday meal Mature age people are invited Sat 1.30pm Wed 7.15pm Mon A meeting place and referral hub Help with shopping and cooking centralcoast.nsw.greens.org.au to participate in a wide range of for education, health, well-being 4325 9854 centralcoastgreens@gmail.com classes courses to broaden the mind and www.cclcbridgeclub.asn.au and cultural programs through 4363 7111 make new friends consultative services and AUSTRALIAN LABOR PARTY cclcbridgeclub@westnet.com.au 0408 704 701 community programs. OURIMBAH/ NARARA www.centralcoast.u3anet.org.au CENTRAL COAST CAKE Mon-Fri 9am-4pm BRANCH 6 Sydney Ave Umina DECORATORS GUILD Discussion/action community CENTRAL COAST FAMILY GOSFORD GUMNUTS 4342 7515 Sugarcraft demonstrations issues 3 levels of Government HISTORY SOCIETY INC. admin@mingaletta.com.au PLAYGROUP conversation and lunch Niagara Park Primary School Help and advice with your family Parents and children meet Visitors welcome 7.30pm 1st Mon each month history research. Tue to Fri, socially. Make friends, learn more 4th Sat - 10am 50+ leisure and TERRIGAL FIFTY PLUS 0410 309 494 930am to 2pm Lions Community about parenting. 0 to 5 yrs Learning Centre Gosford LEISURE AND LEARNING kyle.macgregor@hotmail.com Hall, 8 Russell Drysdale St, Wed - Fri 10am-12noon 4382 6236 CENTRE lsroe@bigpond.com.au E. Gosford. Gosford Uniting Church Hall Activities include fitness, yoga, POLITICS IN THE PUB 4324 5164 129 Donnison St Gosford bridge, mahjong, zumba gold, CENTRAL COAST www.centralcoastfhs.org.au 4325 3695 CENTRAL COAST GOJU-KAI line dancing, tai chi, painting, Discussion of important political, gumnutsguc@gmail.com KARATE craft and computer classes. social, economic, education, BRISBANE WATER Traditional Karate & Self Defence 43845152 and philosophy issues in a non VOLUNTEERING for Teens & Adults HISTORICAL SOCIETY partisan manner - The Grange No Contracts, Cheap Rates • Coach tours • School CENTRAL COAST WYOMING Hotel 4th Thur besides Dec Wamberal - Mon 630pm educational tours • Annual Street Refer potential volunteers to COMMUNITY CENTRE Kincumber - Thurs 715pm Stalls • Participation in History community organisations. Yoga & Zumba classes, Art 0417 697 096 Heritage Week Celebration Provide support to volunteers and Craft classes, Playgroup www.centralcoastgojuMargaret Pearce and community organisations. Develop confidence by improving & Vacation Care, Support kaikarate.com.au 4325 2270 Provide training to volunteers your speaking skills. Meetings are groups, Book Club, Community and managers of volunteers entertaining and educational. Garden, Rooms for Hire, Work Information sessions “Bridge to FELLOWSHIP OF FIRST CENTRAL COAST LAPIDARY Development Orders, Centrelink Volunteering” held regularly. FLEETERS CENTRAL COAST CLUB MINERALS & GEMS Volunteer hours BRISBANE WATERS 4329 7122 For anyone interested in early Learn silverwork, Cabochons, 4323 7483 BREAKFAST recruit@volcc.org.au history or early family histories. Faceting, Enamelling, Stone reception@wyomingcc.org.au TOASTMASTERS CLUB Don’t need to be a First Fleeter. Field-trips & fossicking 8:30am-10:30am WILDLIFE ARC Point Clare Community Hall Weekly Workshops 2nd and Last Sat The Hive and 2nd Sat 10:30am Tues and Thurs 8.30am We rescue and care for Library, Erina Shopping Centre 4311 6254 2.30pm. Thurs 6-10pm injured and orphan native ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS 0459 240 183 10 Ourimbah Creek Rd Ourimbah meet every Wed 12.30pm animals. 24hr/day, 7days/ 4362 2246 Someone cares - Anglican Church week. Come join us. BLUE GUM FLAT 3 Mann St Gosford Gen Meeting 3rd Sun Wyoming TOASTMASTERS CENTRAL COAST 4323 3890 Community Centre, Maidens Mthly meetings 1st and BRISBANE WATER BRASS SOARING CLUB INC Brush Rd Wyoming at 10am 3rd Mon 7.15-9.30pm Brass Band entertainment for the Gliding Club, Learn to fly, BETTER HEARING 4325 0666 Ourimbah RSL community playing all types of Instruction FREE to members AUSTRALIA CENTRAL 4362 7227 popular music COMMUNITY CENTRES 14 and up for Training COAST Rehearsal every Tues. Flying at Bloodtree Rd Mangrove Hearing loss management 7.30pm-10pm Mountain Thur, Sat, Sun ( weather Support and educational group COMMUNITY CENTRES 0419 274 012 permitting) 7 groups across the coast provide the local community INNER WHEEL CLUB 0412 164 082 Providing practical experience with a meeting place and hub for OF TERRIGAL 0414 635 047 and confidence groups, services and information.

CENTRAL COAST SUNDAY LUNCH BUNCH

GOSFORD 50+ LEISURE AND LEARNING CENTRE

Learn the benefits to hearing aids 4321 0275

SPECIAL INTEREST

POLITICAL PARTY

HISTORY GROUPS

PUBLIC SPEAKING

HEALTH GROUPS

MUSIC

SERVICE GROUPS

www.ccsoaring.com.au

CENTRAL COAST PENSION & WELFARE OFFICER NETWORK Group of Volunteers, trained by DVA, to look after servicemen & women. Ourimbah RSL Club 10:30am 2nd Fri - Feb to Nov 4322 1505

NATIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION CENTRAL COAST Twice weekly bush walks, varying distances and grades of difficulty. Explore, enjoy scenery, fauna, floral, history. Keep fit and make friends. 4389 4423 or 4332 7378

SPIRITUALITY IN THE PUB Ecumenical & Interfaith Speakers Forum & Q&A with focus on developing understanding and encouraging dialogue about spirituality through people sharing their life journeys. 1st Tues March to October 2nd Tues November 7.30 to 9pm Grange Hotel Wyoming 4328 2596 - 0498 588 261

WOMEN’S GROUPS BPW CENTRAL COAST Empowering women of all ages in the areas of work, education, well-being and friendship. Monthly dinner meetings and speaker. Community transport available to and from centre Chris Levis 0438 989 199 bpwcentralcoast@hotmail.com www.bpw.com.au/central-coast

COUNTRY WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION (CWA) Quilting, patchwork, spinning, knitting, crochet and more 9am-2pm Every Fri, Opposite Terrigal Bowling Club 4385 9503 or 4384 3696

GOSFORD RSL SUB-BRANCH WOMEN’S AUXILIARY Raise money for the welfare of veterans and their families. RSL Club West Gosford 4th Mon 2pm 4323 7336

CENTRAL COAST WOMEN’S HEALTH CENTRE Counseling, therapeutic and social groups, workshops, domestic violence and abuse issues. All services provided by women for women 4324 2533 www.cccwhc.com.au

SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL BRISBANE WATER Making a difference in the lives of women and girls through Awareness, Advocacy and Action by supporting local and national projects 2nd Thur 7 pm Breakers Country Club, Dover Rd, Wamberal sibrisbanewater@@siswp.org www.siswp.org

WOWGIRLS WAVE OF WISDOM INC WOWGIRLS Wave of Wisdom connects women and local businesses around a common theme of well-being. to share wisdom and explore life’s potential. Regular Powwows, WOW Wisdom gatherings, WOW days and WOW courses check our website for activities. www.wowgirls.com.au info@wowgirls.com.au

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.

Wide range of events for Youth Week entral Coast Council is celebrating National Youth Week with a wide range of events where the next generation of leaders are being encouraged to get involved and be heard.

Youth Week is organised by young people, for young people across the country from, March 31 to April 9. Council Group Leader Connected Communities, Ms Julie Vaughan, said young people across the Central Coast are being encouraged to share ideas, show off their talents, join in local events and celebrate their contribution to the community, but most of all to have fun. “Too often there is a stigma associated with young people, and Youth Week gives them a chance to promote a positive image and showcase themselves,” Ms Vaughan said. “We also have events that will provide support as well as live entertainment, skate and art

competitions and much more.” Something new to kick off the calendar for 2017 is the Comedy for a Cause Fundraiser which was held on March 31. It featured comedians from the Sydney and Melbourne International Comedy Festival that had audiences laughing all night. All proceeds from the night were donated to MMAD youth programs (Musicians Making a Difference). A bumper calendar of activities has been organised for Youth Week and will continue throughout the week with a wide range of events that really showcase the contribution young people make to the community. Council’s libraries are also hosting a number of events including jam sessions, a chance to get hints and tips on how to get through the HSC, as well as how to structure a resume to help you get that job you want. Source: Media release Mar 31, 2017 Central Coast Council Media

Rotarians and members of the community nominated individuals from the local community worthy of recognition. Awardees participate and have leadership roles in many community programs and activities. Rotary President, Mr David Mylan, informed the family members, colleagues, Rotarians and their guests present that: “The Awardees that we acknowledge have demonstrated exceptional devotion to a community cause, project, group or all of these, over a number of years.

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 The Rhythm Hut, Faunce St, Gosford, 5:30pm to 9:00pm, bookings essential

Tuesday, Apr 11 Australian Conservation Foundation Central Coast branch meeting, 50+ Leisure and Learning Centre, Albany St, Gosford, 7:00pm

Friday, Apr 7

Wednesday, Apr 12

A weekend immersion into the practices of Deep Nature Connection with Claire Dunn, author of My Year Without Matches, Somersby until Apr 9 Ben Woodham, Terrigal Hotel, 7:30pm

Central Coast Branch of Friends of the ABC presents Jeff Waters, Central Caost Leagues Club, Gosford, 5:30pm for 6:00pm start, bookings essential

Saturday, Apr 8 Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, Kibble Park, Gosford Central Coast Community Markets Charity Car Boot Sale, Fairhaven, 209 Brisbane Water Dve, Point Clare, 9:00am to 1:00pm

Sunday, Apr 9 Macropods Workshop by Wildlife Arc, Kariong Eco Garden, 10:00am to 12:00pm Kids’s yoga and craft, The Rhythm Hut, Faunce St Gosford, 11:00am to 1:00pm, bookings essential

Monday, Apr 10 Circus Skills and Thrills Workshop, The Rhythm Hut, Faunce St, Gosford, 10:00am to 11:30am, bookings essential Shamanic Talisman Journey,

Friday, Apr 14 Australian Plant Society meeting at Phillip House, 21 Old Mount Penang Rd, Kariong, WA Wildflowers, 7:30pm

Saturday, Apr 15 Free try your hand sessions with the Central Coast Watercolour Society, Community Gallery, Gosford Regional Gallery until April 17, 1:00pm to 4:00pm

Wednesday, Apr 19 Then and Now, an exhibition of work by artists of the Arts Studios Cooperative, 391 Mann St, North Gosford, 11:00am to 4:00pm Wednesday to Friday and 10:00am to 4:00pm Saturday and Sunday

Thursday, Apr 20 Sing a little longa kid’s drama and storytelling workshop, The Rhythm Hut, Faunce St, Gosford, 1:30pm to 4:00pm, bookings

APRIL 6, 2017

ix Central Coast community leaders who display outstanding qualities in personal dedication, commitment, drive and leadership across a range of activities and endeavours, were recognised by the Rotary Club of Terrigal on Thursday, March 23, at the club’s Community Service Awards event, held at the Breakers Country Club, Wamberal.

For events in post code areas 2250, 2260 and 2251

Central Coast Watercolour Society presents annual Easter Showcase Art Exhibition, The Community Gallery, Gosford Regional Gallery, East Gosford, to April 19, 10:00am to 4:00pm daily, official opening April 7 from 6:00pm

OUT&ABOUT PAGE 27

Community leaders receive Community Service Awards

The Gosford Diary Thursday, Apr 6

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essential Introduction to Crystal Dowsing, The Rhythm Hut, Faunce St, Gosford, 6:00pm to 7:30pm, bookings essential

Saturday, Apr 22 Open Day, Henry Kendall Cottage and Historical Museum, guest speaker Michael Wilding, Author and Emeritus Professor of English and Australian Literature at the University of Sydney, from 10:30am

From L-R Rotary's Mr Peter Ward, Mr Adam Phillips, Rotary's Mr David Mylan, Ms Tanya Degen, Mr Ramazan Can, Mr Chris Tyler, Ms Hilary Day and Mr Adam Crouch absent Mr Andrew Davidson

“Sustained ‘service above self’ is the yardstick that sets our awardees apart from their peers. “It also marks the view of the nominator, that the nominee demonstrates exemplary contribution to community.” The Member for Terrigal, Mr Adam Crouch, delivered a speech highlighting the spirit, care and compassion for others that is shown by individuals and their communities here on the Central Coast in response to storms, personal needs, building stronger communities and supporting and developing youth. Awardees were: Mr Ramazan Can, sponsor and supporter of local sports organisations; Mr Andrew Davison, Terrigal Surf Life Saving Club; Ms Hilary Day, Central Coast Symphony Orchestra; Ms Tanya Deger, Wamberal Rural Fire Service; Mr Adam Phillips, Wamberal Surf Life Saving Club; and Mr Chris Tyler, Roads Safety Education RYDA Program and Men’s Shed Terrigal. Source: Media release, Apr 3, 2017 David Mylan, Rotary Club Terrigal

Sunday, Apr 23 Avoca Beachside Markets, Heazlett Park Foreshore, Avoca Beach 9:00am to 2:00pm Scholarships in Radiotherapy 2017 Fun Day, Central Coast Grammar School featuring Legs, Lashes and Lyrics, The GB Girls and guests are encouraged to wear an elegant mask, Central Coast Grammar School, light lunch, drinks, entertainment and silent auction from 11:30am, bookings essential Introduction to Theatre with Rose Cooper, The Rhythm Hut, Faunce St, Gosford, 2:00pm to 4:30pm, bookings essential

Monday, Apr 24 Dream Catcha Weaving Workshop, The Rhythm Hut, Faunce St, Gosford, 6:30pm to 8:00pm, bookings essential

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Classified advertising is the cheapest form of newspaper advertising. This newspaper is published on line on the night before publication date, and is read that way by hundreds of people. All advertisements, including these classified advertising pages, appear in full on-line as an additional benefit for free. See www.CentralCoastNewspapers.com or www. CentralCoastNews.net Central Coast Newspapers’ advertising rates are relatively much lower than in other newspapers and at the same time much larger than in other newspapers, with the minimum size being 50mm X 42mm. Approximately 16,000 copies of each newspaper are printed and distributed every fortnight. Coast Community News also has a website especially designed for use on the latest mobile phones – www.CoastCommunityNews.com.au Classified advertisements in Coast Community News will also appear in a directory on that mobile website for free, with up to two live links to phones, websites, or email addresses for each advertisement. The mobile website has over 40,000 regular users and 10,000 unique readers every month.

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The Society invites the public to the Henry Kendall Cottage and Historical Museum at 25 Henry Kendall St, West Gosford, for their Heritage Festival Open Day on Saturday, April 22. At 11am, Emeritus Professor of English and Australian Literature at the University of Sydney, and author of ‘Wild Bleak Bohemia: Marcus Clarke, Adam Lindsay Gordon and Henry Kendall’, Prof Michael Wilding, will act as guest speaker. Light lunch and refreshments will also be served after Prof Wilding’s talk. The exhibition will run until May 31.

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Jack Miles from Kurri Kurri makes a clean sweep of all races at speedway he tapes went up on the junior speedway racing season at Allen Park Raceway in Somersby, home of the Central Coast Junior Motorcycle Club, on Saturday, March 25.

A top class field of 16 young 125cc junior riders from all over NSW contested the The Ray and

Joan Sanson Spirit of Speedway meeting, which honours the contribution of the late husband and wife duo to the club and junior speedway over many years. Twelve-year-old Jack Miles from Kurri Kurri was in sparkling form with a 15 point maximum, winning all his races and the ‘A’ final in fine style. Runner up was the diminutive

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11-year-old, Lachlan Hayes, from Branxton, with 10-year-old, Tom Drane, from Forbes, a credible third place on the rostrum. “Miles is certainly star quality and could well go on to emulate the success of 2012 World Speedway Champion, Chris Holder, who also raced junior speedway at Somersby”, said Club spokesman, Terry Starbuck. “He was consistently quick, winning many races from the back and recording the fastest time of the night in Heat 12, an amazing 41.3 seconds over four laps in a hard fought battle with Lex Tracy, great-great nephew of six times Australian Champion Billy Sanders.” Miles was also presented with the special Spirit of Speedway trophy, awarded to the most promising up and coming rider who demonstrates skills both on and off the track with qualities like attitude, tenacity and fair play. Source: Media release, Mar 27, 2017 Terry Starbuck, Central Coast Junior Motorcycle Club

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SPORT

PAGE 29 APRIL 6, 2017

Mariners to play for pride in final home game t’s M1 Derby week and the Mariners’ final home game of the year is shaping up to be an epic, face-saving, battle against the Newcastle Jets at Central Coast Stadium on Sunday, April 9.

Central Coast Mariners must win the derby to avoid this year’s Toilet Brush (wooden spoon) as Newcastle Jets remain two points ahead of the Coast at the bottom of the A-League table. There’s no relegation or promotion in Australian football, but both teams are expected to fight to avoid coming last on the 2017 ladder. The top six is now decided and there’s no chance for Newcastle, Adelaide or Wellington to make the finals, so the last two rounds of the competition are definitely about pride. The announcement of Storm Roux’s contract extension with the Central Coast Mariners should buoy the home side. Roux has been signed for two more years at the Mariners, his

new contract taking him through to the end of the 2018-19 A-League season. The final score against Brisbane Roar in round 25 did not reflect the fact that, at least for the first 45 minutes, the Central Coast Mariners played with confidence and dominance. The Central Coast Mariners also need a win at home, having only enjoyed two home crowd victories this year out of 13 home games – not a great track record for a season that was supposed to be about rebuilding on and off the field. According to the A-League’s form ladder, the Mariners are slightly ahead of their northern rivals. The Mariners have travelled to Newcastle twice this season and have returned home both times with points, three in the first round and a point for the draw on February 26. Scott Galloway was the hero of the February match when the left back took a shot off a corner from outside the 18 yard box and scored.

He struck the ball with the inside of his right foot straight past the Newcastle goalie to level the scores and give the Mariners a point for the trip home. The home crowd will be looking for strong attacks from the likes of Ferreira and Pain. Ferreira’s goal through the middle against Brisbane Roar was a memorable moment that displayed his attacking prowess. The home crowd will also be hoping Coach Paul Okon also gives young hopefuls Appiah and Bingham the chance to star in the final home game of the season, as both have shown such commitment and promise in recent matches. Aleksadr Kokko remains Newcastle’s danger man. Source: Website, Apr 5, 2017 Tyson Scott, Central Coast Mariners Website, Apr 5, 2017 Hyundai A-League ladder and match reports

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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.

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PAGE 30 APRIL 6, 2017

SPORT

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Five sporting clubs receive $5,000 grants

NSW Minister for Sport, Mr Stuart Ayres (left), and Ms Jilly Pilon, Liberal candidate for Gosford (second from right) with sporting club representatives

porting groups from across the Central Coast were celebrating their share of $50,000 in local sport grants under the State Government’s $3.5 million Local Sport Grant Program.

NSW Minister for Sport, Mr Stuart Ayres, and Liberal Candidate for the Gosford by-election, Ms Jilly Pilon, joined club representatives at the Gosford Sailing Club on Friday, March 31, to award the grants.

Mr Ayres said he grew up with local sporting groups, so it was important to give back. “I was one of those guys that got onto the committee at my local footy club, so I’ve found out a lot about what it was like to talk to the Treasurer, mark the lines, make sure the canteen is making enough money so you could actually buy the balls, the witches hats, and found a way to look after the guy who couldn’t quiet pay their registration fee on time,” Mr Ayres said. “All of those types of experiences

Tide Chart

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

0424 1.64 1107 0.46 THU 1719 1.40 2306 0.62

7 FRI

0524 1.66 1159 0.43 1810 1.48

8 SAT

0052 0.50 0136 0.46 0700 1.67 0742 1.65 SUN 1321 0.40 MON 1355 0.41 1932 1.62 2009 1.66

0255 0.45 0332 0.46 0858 1.56 0934 1.51 WED 1458 0.47 THU 1528 0.51 2116 1.70 2148 1.69

15 SAT

18 TUE

TUE

FRI

0003 0.55 0615 1.67 1242 0.41 1853 1.56

are something that this program is here for,” he said. Ms Pilon said sport had always been a part of her and her family’s life. “From playing golf at Gosford and down at Everglades, I grew up playing netball at Adcock Park, basketball when we used to have a basketball stadium here at Gosford instead of Terrigal, and playing tennis at Gosford Tennis Club. “It’s great to see funds going to such a broad and diverse range of sports across this electorate, which is fantastic,” Ms Pilon said. Clubs who shared in the funding were $5,000 to the Gosford Sailing Club, Kariong and Districts Rugby Club, Central Coast Touch Football, Gosford Water Polo Club, and the Gosford District Tennis Club. Source: Interview, Mar 31, 2017 Media Conference, Mar 31, 2017 Jilly Pilon, Liberal Candidate for Gosford By-election Stuart Ayres, NSW Minister for Sport Jarrod Melmeth, Journalist

Avoca Beach, Gosford, Terrigal and Kariong all put points on the table in Union Round 1 he 2017 Central Coast Rugby season opened with a bang on Saturday, April 1, with Avoca Beach, Gosford, Terrigal and Kariong all recording mixed results for their season opener.

The Match of the Round was at Heazlett Park, Avoca Beach, where a herculean effort by Avoca Beach saw them score late in the match to force a 14 all draw against Gosford. The match was an even affair with neither side giving an inch, The match started off on a fairly even keel with both teams having opportunities to post points. Avoca Beach took control for a while and did have a certain territorial advantage in the early stages of the first stanza, but they were simply unable to break through to post any points. The Gosford defence held firm at this stage. The remainder of the first half was a tight struggle. At the halftime break both teams had scored a single try. Gosford had scored a good try through their centre Josh McGlynn, while Avoca Beach posted their five pointer via fullback, Adrian Jones. Gosford did lead at the break by 8 points to 7, and it was obvious that this match was going to go right down to the wire. Avoca Beach had several very good performers at this stage. Brad Sheridan was all over the paddock and was certainly playing a leading role for his team. He was well supported by halfback, Julian Bacigalupo, and prop, Josh Meadham. Gosford were being best served by centre, Josh McGlynn, flanker, Hugo Pike, and Luke Brown. The second half was a dour battle, with Gosford able to convert two penalty goals to take the lead by 14 points to 7. With time running out, it seemed the Gosford team were to hang on for the victory, but a penalty try late in the match, due to a Gosford

indiscretion, saw the home side square up the match at 14 all. Both teams will take a lot from the match, but both would also rue the real chance they had of notching up a first up victory. Terrigal came from behind to defeat Warnervale at The Haven Oval, Terrigal. Terrigal won by the single point (19 points to 18) in a passionate game of rugby. Warnervale had the better start of the two, they played some concentrated and consistent rugby and were able to cross for two early tries. Winger, Brennan Wanstall, crossed early to open the scoring. This 5 points to nil lead was soon increased when another very good backline movement saw Zac McGowan cross for an excellent try. The conversion of this try and another penalty goal to Cameron McNamar, saw Warnervale lead by 15 points to nil. This was to be the halftime score, and also remained the score line for quite a while into the second half. Warnervale were playing with confidence and an upset was definitely on the cards. However, Terrigal started to put things together in the second stanza. Things were starting to flow for them and as a result they were able to cross for three second half tries. It was a very good comeback, but the home side would have been very much concerned for the majority of this match. Terrigal had several good players in the match. Their best was hooker, Ethan McInnes. He was able to continue his great form from last year and certainly got his team on the straight and narrow in the second half when it was required. He was well supported by flanker, Sam Kenny, and forward, Alec Brewin. Warnervale put in a great performance and they will have a

0216 0.45 0821 1.61 1427 0.44 2043 1.68 0411 0.49 1012 1.45 1559 0.56 2222 1.68

0451 0.52 0533 0.57 0622 0.61 1050 1.39 1132 1.33 1219 1.27 1631 0.62 SUN 1709 0.68 MON 1752 0.74 2259 1.64 2338 1.60

0025 1.55 0120 1.50 0424 1.64 0717 0.65 0819 0.66 1107 0.46 1315 1.23 WED 1421 1.22 THU 1719 1.40 1846 0.79 1953 0.82 2306 0.62

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

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great season. Kariong also came from behind to defeat Woy Woy at Kariong Oval by 29 points to 21. This was an exciting game of rugby, and although at times becoming quite dour, some excellent tries were scored. Both teams now know they have the potential to have very good seasons and for a first hit out, it was a great effort. After a very even start with a penalty goal each, it was Woy Woy who gained the ascendancy. They were able to score their two tries in the first half and went to the halftime break leading by 15 points to 3. It appeared at that stage that they would go on and secure the win. They even went further ahead early in the second half with a penalty goal, and led by 18 points to 3 early in the second half. It was at this stage that Kariong suddenly got into gear. Things started to work for them and suddenly they were able to find the gaps. At the midway point of the second half, Woy Woy still led by 21 points to 10, but three late tries to Kariong saw them grab the lead and then secure the win on fulltime. Kariong had several very good players. Five-eight, Ryan Wallbank, played well and scored the vital final try. He was very well supported by No.8, Phil Brown, and winger, Jake Holwill, who crossed for two tries, and half back, Scott Hanley. Hanley led by example and kept working on his forwards to keep going. Woy Woy played well, and although faltering a little towards the end of the match, will get stronger and stronger as the season progresses. Source: Media release, Apr 1, 2017 Larry Thomson, Central Coast Rugby Union

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SPORT

PAGE 31 APRIL 6, 2017

Big win for Terrigal Avoca in Black Diamond Cup

ound One action of the AFL Black Diamond Cup saw Terrigal Avoca defeat Killarney Vale at Adelaide St Oval on Saturday, April 1. The final score was 74 to 29, and Terrigal kept the Bombers to one goal in the first three quarters in a fine defensive performance, despite missing Jayson Van Dam and James Webster. Coach, Mark Skuse, will be conducting extra goal kicking practice this week at Hylton Moore

Oval after the Panthers kicked nine goals from 29 attempts. Terrigal Avoca’s Kurt Fleming, was the only multiple goalkicker in the match, kicking two goals. Killarney Vale rallied late to kick three goals in the last quarter. The Panthers were best served by Corbin Bond, Fleming, Jackson Farquhar, Corey Billins, James Hart and Jarrad Flint. In the Black Diamond Plate, Wyong Lakes produced a convincing four-quarter performance to defeat local rival, Gosford, 124-59 points, at Don

Small Oval as the club celebrated Rhys McNaughton Memorial Day. At Singleton, Terrigal Avoca were no match for the defending premiers, as Singleton smashed Terrigal Avoca 108-7. In the GE Womens’ Competition, Gosford and Wyong Lakes played a tight encounter with the Tigers winning by 11 points. Source: Match reports Apr 2, 2017 Garry Burkinshaw, AFL Black Diamond Storm hooker Cameron Phillips offloads during the Open Grade clash Photo: Andrew Stark

Storm lose round one Inaugural Legends’ Challenge to be held as a curtain raiser match in final quarter hour for Mariners’ final home game T s a curtain raiser to the F3Derby on Sunday, April 9, at Central Coast Stadium, a team of former Central Coast Mariners’ stars will do battle against former players of the Newcastle Jets in the inaugural Legends’ Challenge.

The history of the F3Derby will be recognised with the first ever ‘Legends’ Challenge’, supporting Men of Football.

Mariners Legends include: Pedj Bojic, Damien Brown, Matthew Crowell, Andre Gumprecht, Daniel McBreen, Mile Sterjovski, Vuko Tomasevic, Matthew Trott (gk), and Patrick Zwaanswijk. Kick-off is 3:30pm and will feature two 15 minute halves in a seven versus seven half-pitch format at the northern end of the stadium. The game will take place shortly before the commencement of the final F3Derby of the Hyundai A-League 2016/17 regular season, which starts at 5pm.

The participating players will also form a guard of honour for the current F3Derby combatants as they take to the pitch in Gosford for the Round 26 encounter. It is envisaged that the ‘Legends’ Challenge’ will be held annually, with the location of the match rotating between Central Coast Stadium in Gosford and McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle. Source: Media release, Apr 4, 2017 Tyson Scott, Central Coast Mariners Media

he Gosford Kariong Storm pushed Toukley all the way in round one of the 2017 season’s Open Grade rugby league competition, with a spirited, first-up performance in the wet at Berkeley Vale Oval on Sunday, April 2.

The Storm may not have picked up the two competition points, but showed enough in their 30 to 16 loss, to suggest that last season’s ‘easy beat’ tag has well and truly been cast aside. Led by former Erina recruit, Robert ‘RJ’ Warwick, who notched up two tries from right centre, Gosford fought back from a 12-0

deficit to trail by just a couple with a quarter of an hour to play. Both of Warwick’s tries were set up by wiry dummy half, Jordan Groom, who managed to dance his way through the Hawks’ defence before linking with the team’s bullocking number three. Gosford’s other try scorer was fullback, Billy James, who was unlucky not to have also finished with a double after the touch judge overruled the referee on a touch and go forward pass call, mid-way through the opening stanza. The inclusion of seasoned playmaker, Brendan Eather, at half time, gave the team muchneeded direction and, with a forward pack that refused to give

an inch against the hefty Toukley six, the future looks promising for Max Russell’s team as they prepare for a visit to Kanwal and a clash with the perennially strong Wyong Roos. A day earlier, Gosford’s junior teams finally managed to get onto the paddock after a series of washed-out Sundays had thwarted all earlier attempts. Games from under-6 through to under-16 were held at Blue Haven Oval as the Storm lads christened their new jerseys on a warm and humid April 1. Source: Media release, Apr 3, 2017 Andrew Stark, Gosford Kariong Strom RLFC

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