Coast Community News 272 by Central Coast Newspapers

11 DECEMBER 2020

ISSUE 272

The end of an era for youth services hub

News

Professional Central Coast surfer Adrian “Ace” Buchan added his voice to growing chorus of opposition to the renewal of the PEP 11 licence for offshore gas exploration. See page 3

Out&About

After 20 years, tenants in the Gosford Parkside building are having to relocate to make way for the construction of Central Coast Council’s Gosford Regional Library.

The Central Coast’s very own opera company, Coast Opera Australia, is launching a new post-pandemic program, with Opera Afloat planned for February 2021. See page 17

Education

See page 4

Auditors in Council’s sights Auditors are in the sights of Central Coast Council about advice provided on the reporting of restricted funds.

Acting CEO Rik Hart

It appears this may have led the Council to believe it had more cash reserves than it actually did. A significant issue for the new Council was the way auditors suggested they account for restricted funds at the beginning of 2017, when the Council was still under administration from the merger. Council’s Acting CEO, Rik Hart, said there was a note to the accounts in the 2016 financial year saying the department had a voluntary policy on how to account for restricted funds. “This was done at the time allegedly under the advice of the auditors,” Hart said. The policy made it appear that the Council had an extra

$88M as cash that could be spent. Hart said that elsewhere in the annual report, the funds appeared as restricted funds. “These were published numbers, they were there if you knew where to look,” Hart said. The reporting of the restricted funds as cash meant the Council, at the beginning of the 2017 financial year, thought it had $93M in cash when in fact it only had $5M. At the end of the financial year, the Council had saved $65M from income thanks in part to $80M in operational grants from the State Government. So, it had total cash of $70M only, not the extra $88M of restricted funds mentioned at the start of 2017 in the published accounts. But even with only $70M in cash, Council started the 2018 financial year in great shape. That was July 2017 and the

council was still under administration. The councillors were not elected until September 2017. “$70M was a sound amount to have as a cash buffer for unexpected expenses and to cover for fluctuations in cash flow,” Hart said. But once the councillors were elected, the Council started spending way more than it earned in income. By the end of financial year 2018, the deficit was $22.7M. By the end of financial year 2019, another $5M was added to the accumulating deficit. Also looming by then was a $39M cut in income from the IPART decision to lower water and sewer rates for the Central Coast. By the beginning of 2020, the figures were showing that income was decreasing and costs increasing. Continued page 3

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch is encouraging Central Coast young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to apply for scholarships now... See page 35

Sport

Avoca Beach will play host to a world-class surfing competition next year, with the Vissla Central Coast Pro set to be held from 2 to 7 March 2021. See page 40

Puzzles page 22

Office: Level 2, 86-88 Mann St, Gosford - Phone: 4325 7369 - Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 - E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net - Website: www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

PAGE 2

11 DECEMBER 2020

CCN

NEWS

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

ABOUT US

Coast Community News is published weekly on a Friday by Central Coast Newspapers Pty Ltd (CCN), a local, family-owned business. CCN publishes three local, independent newspapers – Coast Community News, the Coast Community Pelican Post and the Coast Community Chronicle – distributed via more than 450 distribution points right across the Central Coast. Most of our stories, as well as our digital programs such as “Friday 5@5”, can be viewed online at www.coastcommunitynews.com.au CCN aims to serve the interests of the community in three important ways: 1. To serve the ultimate purpose of the free press in a democracy, that is, to hold powerful interests to account through high-quality, independent journalism without fear or prejudice; 2. To provide an affordable medium for local businesses to advertise their products and services, including discounted rates for eligible not-for-profit organisations; and, 3. To keep the community informed about local issues and ensure that important public notices are available to ALL members of the community irrespective of their socio-economic circumstances. Our content is originated through both our own team of local journalists as well as external

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN

sources, including media releases, websites and public notices. All our news content is subject to strict editorial standards – see www.coastcommunitynews. com.au/aboutus/editorialstandards Wherever possible, our news includes source lines that provide information about where information was sourced so that readers can judge for themselves the veracity of what they are reading. Each paper focuses specifically on an area bound by postcodes as follows: Coast Community Pelican Post - Post Codes 2256 and 2257; Coast Community News - Post Codes 2250, 2251, 2260; and Coast Community Chronicle - Post Codes 2258, 2259, 2261, 2262 and 2263. Coast Community News is published weekly and its coverage takes in parts of Gosford West, Gosford East and Wyong Central Coast Council Wards. It also takes in parts of the State seats of Gosford, Terrigal and The Entrance, and parts of the Federal seats of Robertson and Dobell For all other information, please visit our website or call us on (02) 4325 7369 or call in and see us at Suite 1, Level 2, 86 Mann St, Gosford. Ross Barry, Publisher

Coast News would like to offer three lucky readers the chance to win a family pass to Taronga Zoo Sydney. The summer holidays are almost here and whether your family craves an action-packed day of fun or is looking for an escape, Taronga Zoo Sydney has something for you! Did you know a lion’s roar can be heard more than 8km away?

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

challenges facing these iconic species in the wild. For your chance to win, write your full name, address and daytime telephone number on the back of an envelope and mail it to Coast Community News Taronga Zoo Competition PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250, before 5pm on December 22. The winner of the PETstock Competition was Robyn Kinder of Davistown.

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

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

Next Edition: Coast Community News 273

If you dare, stop in and meet three-year-old Lion brother’s Lwazi and Ato at the recently opened African Savannah precinct. Here, guest are instantly transported to the heart of Africa on the edge of Sydney Harbour, and can come eye-toeye with an array of incredible African wildlife including Lions, Fennec Fox, Meerkats, Giraffes and Zebras, all whilst learning about the conservation

see www.coastcommunitynews.com.au/ aboutus/advertisingrates We also offer discounts for not-for-profit organisations and other community groups. Advertisers are invited to talk to us about becoming a DIGITAL PARTNER, which provides exclusive opportunities to promote your product, services or events on our digital platform as well. If you would like to be a DIGITAL PARTNER please call us on 0401 000 475 or email us at keeper@centralcoastnews.net

Deadline: December 16 Publication date: December 18

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

Publisher: Ross Barry - CEO: Cec Bucello - Design & Production: Justin Stanley, Lucillia Eljuga Journalists: Terry Collins, Merilyn Vale, Dilon Luke, Jacinta Counihan, Hayley McMahon, Maisy Rae, Haakon Barry - Head of Distribution: Anthony Wagstaff ISSN 1839-9045 - Print Post Approved - PP100001843 - Printed by Spotpress Marrickville

27 NOVEMBER 2020

ISSUE 270

4 DECEMBER 2020 2 DECEMBER 2020

News

New boards for Terrigal Nippers

The Salvation Army has launched its annual Christmas Appeal and is calling for donations to let those who are doing it tough know that they are not alone.

ISSUE 217

REAL INDEPENDENT LOCAL WEEKLY NEWS

3 DECEMBER 2020

Budget black hole

News

Chief Executive Officer, Gary Murphy, who has been on leave, has had his position with Central Coast Council terminated, with a pay-out of $380,000.

See page 4

The Everglades Lagoon Wetlands Bushcare Group has been named Most Outstanding Community-based Organisation ...

Out&About

As Christmas lights sparkle to life across the Coast, a new display at Bateau Bay is bringing a twinkle to locals’ eyes.

There’s no doubt about it – Kraken the Komodo dragon is one big boy. See page 17

Education

Rate rise on the cards Central Coast Council held a special meeting on November 26 to give itself permission to apply for a rate rise, even though the Council hasn’t decided as yet if it wants one. The Council is hedging its bets by allowing staff to start the process to apply for a special rate variation above the usual rate rise set by Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART). The meeting saw two people address the council before the administrator accepted the motion to go to IPART with a request for a 10 per cent increase for seven years.

The 10 per cent includes the two per cent increase already allowed by IPART. After the meeting, Administrator Dick Persson also announced that the number of Council director positions would be reduced from nine to five or six and there would be “significant reductions” in the next level of management, the unit manager level, which currently stands at 37 positions. When pushed for specifics, he would not be drawn on exact numbers but repeated that there would be “significant” reductions. Continued page 7

The first group of “underperforming” assets to be sold by Central Coast Council to recoup hundreds of millions of dollars of debt includes sites at Wyong, Warnervale, Doyalson, North Gosford and in Gosford.

While there were plenty of Central Coast stars out at the 2020 Women’s State of Origin clash, none shined brighter than former Wyong Roo, Tarryn Aiken. See page 40

Puzzles page 22

Office: Level 2, 86-88 Mann St, Gosford - Phone: 4325 7369 - Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 - E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net - Website: www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

Administrator, Dick Persson, during a recent visit to Warnervale airport

Land at The Entrance identified by Council as one of five top sites for affordable housing was struck off the list of asset sales when it went before Administrator Dick Persson at Council’s meeting on Monday, November 30. “I’m not interested in selling sites that are part of an affordable housing strategy … housing is one of my priorities,” he said. The three lots at 23-25 Ashton Ave, The Entrance, are currently being used for informal car

“the situation we are in is far more serious and urgent than I thought when I got here” parking. Persson also removed 129 Albany St, Gosford, off the list of properties to be sold, which currently houses a childcare centre, a dementia care centre and hostel. Other properties at Warnervale, Doyalson, Jilliby, North Gosford and Council’s own office building will be sold. A Property Advisory Committee will be established to advise Persson and General Manager, Rik Hart, through the next three lists of asset for sale to follow later, as part of the Business Recovery Plan to

recoup Council’s debts. “This Committee will be two or three people with vast property experience outside of the area, people who won’t be part of the development industry or the networks that are here,” he said. Persson said tight time frames and the urgent financial situation prevented community consultation. “I’m going to release a report on Wednesday (December 2) which I think will surprise some people … that the situation we Continued page 4

See page 17

See page 3

Education

Competition coming to Peninsula fuel market

Many Council assets listed for sale

See page 35

Sport

Umina Beach Markets is set to celebrate its fifth birthday this December with its monthly event held on Sunday, December 20.

• Council’s debt balloons to over half a billion dollars

Chief Financial Officer, Natalia Cowley, Administrator, Dick Persson, and Acting CEO, Rik Hart at the extraordinary meeting on December 2

(from left) Brayden Hawkins of Blue Haven, Cooper Sweeney of Budgewoi, Ben McCulkin of Gwandalan and Daniel Leahy of Nords Wharf

An exhibition of 22 original artworks on calico by NAISDA Dance College students has raised over $1,400 to provide resources for the remote Aboriginal community of Nyinyikay in North East Arnhem Land.

• Cumulative losses of $230M in 4 years

Education

See page 5

See page 39

CCN

See page 17

Four teenagers and two other members of The Lakes Surf Life Saving Club carried out a mass rescue of 18 people at Soldiers Beach, Norah Head.

Toys, games, school supplies and sanitary items are just some of the gifts on the way to children in need, courtesy of Wyong Christian Community School (WCCS). See page 35

Sport

A-League preparations continued for Alen Stajcic and his Central Coast Mariners on November 27, with a preseason trial against Western Sydney Wanderers... See page 38

Puzzles page 23

Office: Level 2, 86-88 Mann St, Gosford & 3 Amy Close, Wyong - Phone: 4325 7369 - editorial@centralcoastnews.net - www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

With the new $10M Leagues Club Field regional play space set to open to the public during summer, work is well underway on installing sandstone animal islands in the park.

The new United service station on Ocean Beach Rd at Umina Beach is set to open before Christmas, with Peninsula Chamber of Commerce hopeful it might lead to a reduction in inflated fuel pricing in the area. A completion date has been set for December 7, weather permitting,with a spokesperson for United Petroleum confirming that even with unforeseen hold-ups, the bowsers should be operating well before Christmas. The service station has been in the pipeline for almost four years, with several alterations to consent being made along the way. It will contain four refuelling bays (double sided bowsers) and associated fuel canopy, an ancillary service store and two tenancies (yet to be confirmed). It will also have an automatic

car wash bay with a 2.4m high acoustic fence. The service station and convenience store will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week and will employ two staff. The site originally contained a service station, two homes and vacant land. Chamber of Commerce president, Matthew Wales, said he was hopeful the new service station would maintain similar pricing to its other nearest

outlet, just 6km away at Empire Bay. “Pricing at United Empire Bay is almost consistently 20 cents per litre cheaper than on the Peninsula and I can’t imagine prices would differ much between the two outlets,” he said. “I can only expect their prices will be similar and therefore will place a significant amount of pressure on other operators to match them.

9 DECEMBER 2020

ISSUE 218

REAL INDEPENDENT LOCAL WEEKLY NEWS

Foreshore reserve rejuvenated

News

ISSUE 272

The end of an era for youth services hub

News

Professional Central Coast surfer Adrian “Ace” Buchan added his voice to growing chorus of opposition to the renewal of the PEP 11 licence for offshore gas exploration.

Construction of Elsie’s Retreat, the Coast’s first dedicated inpatient palliative care unit, is poised to begin. See page 6

See page 3

Out&About

See page 4

• Administrator Dick Persson will seek a three-month extension of his original three-month term.

11 DECEMBER 2020

Out&About

• The contract of CEO Gary Murphy had been terminated.

• 2020/21 deficit forecast to be $115M

The Nippers program at Terrigal Surf Life Saving Club has scored some new foam boards ahead of the summer season thanks to Terrigal Bowling Club.

• Central Coast Council has racked up a massive $565M debt since 2017 and is looking at a deficit this year alone of $115M.

News

See page 6

See page 3

Out&About

ISSUE 271

ISSUE 003

REAL INDEPENDENT LOCAL WEEKLY NEWS

Budget blowout

News

18 lives saved in mass rescue

“I have been given no reason why there is such a difference in prices between the Peninsula and other areas 5-10km away. “If United doesn’t maintain a similar price structure to other operators, I will feel we are being gouged. The United Petroleum spokesperson said the company “always tried to be the cheapest” and customers could expect very competitive prices when the servo opens it

bowsers. With two other major service station upgrades underway at Memorial Ave, Ettalong and Rawson Rd, Woy Woy (where a 7-Eleven is being installed), Wales said the Peninsula would welcome “as many petrol outlets as we can manage”. “This activity shows major brands have a lot of confidence in the Peninsula market and this is also reflected in the improving quality of offerings,” he said. “There has clearly been a significant shift in demographics with younger families influencing market decisions. “We are seeing some very trendy renos, particularly in Umina Beach and it is wonderful to see older homes being repurposed.” Terry Collins

• Council will start selling off assets, with the first list of proposed sale sites now available.

A friendship established with a customer while she was working as a door greeter at Kmart...

Education

See page 35

Sport

Young touch players on the Peninsula were treated to a surprise visit from Melbourne Storm’s Nicho Hynes at their training session on Sunday, November 22. See page 40

Puzzles page 22

Office: Level 2, 86-88 Mann St, Gosford & 3 Amy Close, Wyong - Phone: 4325 7369 - editorial@centralcoastnews.net - www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

The halls aren’t the only things that have been decked this festive season, with Busways Central Coast rolling out some specially decorated buses to spread holiday cheer and raise funds...

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has urged beach-goers to keep their distance from a large Australian fur seal which has been spotted sunbaking at Forresters Beach over the past week. The bull seal was attacked by a dog at Long Reef north of Sydney early in November and has been trying out a few beaches heading north ever since. Ronny Ling from Central Coast Dolphin Project said NPWS had been following the movements of the seal, nicknamed Reg because of his tendency to regulate his temperature by warming up when he hauls onto the sand, by putting his flipper in the air. “He is identifiable by the big notch which has been taken out of his front

flipper,” Ling said. “He also has a small injury on his chin.” Ling said it was important to give the seal space and not walk in between the seal and the water, as that is his escape route and he may feel threatened. People must keep back at least 40 metres from the seal, not walk between the seal and the water and keep their dogs on-leash. They are also urged not to attempt to feed Reg. But residents are urged to report a sick, injured or distressed seal to NPWS on 13000 PARKS (1300 072 757) or ORRCA on (02) 9415 3333. Source: Media releases, Nov 28 NPWS and Central Coast Dolphin Project

Nathan Walker and his friends have raised $10,000 for the Cure Brain Cancer Foundation, after holding their second Smeethy Cup in honour of a friend who has passed away. See page 35

Sport

Jono Cooper once again showed his power and class to take out the Open Men’s Single final of the Gosford Tennis Club (GTC) 2020 Open Club Championships in a strong field of 44 players. See page 40

Puzzles page 22

Office: Level 2, 86-88 Mann St, Gosford - Phone: 4325 7369 - Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 - E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net - Website: www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

Workforce at Central Coast Council to be slashed by 242 The workforce at Central Coast Council will be slashed by 242 in the wake of its financial crisis, to return to the number of staff at the time of amalgamation. Staff costs have risen by 43 percent since amalgamation, using a normalised cost of $154M as the starting base, while revenue has risen by only six percent, the Administrator, Dick Persson, stated in his interim 30-day report delivered to the public on December 2. He also mentioned the “substantial costs” of $25M from an industrial dispute concerning 38/35-hour week

negotiations as well as unifying the salary scale and harmonisation costs. The nine directorates making up the senior leadership team has been reduced to five long term. A sixth directorate is short term, which is Malcolm Ryan, who has been engaged short term as Chief Operating Officer to assist the interim Administrator and Acting CEO deal with issues such as improving processes and structures. Council has earmarked $45M in its current budget for organisational restructuring costs including staff

redundancies. It then adds another $5M for the recruitment of critical or revenue generating positions. Acting CEO, Rik Hart, proposed the new organisational structure and the Administrator, Dick Persson, adopted it at the November 30 meeting. The revised Senior Staff Structure will consist of a director for water and sewer, community services, environment and planning, infrastructure, and corporate affairs. The senior staff roles that no longer form part of the executive structure are the Director Governance, which is

currently vacant, the executive manager People and Culture; executive manager Innovation and Futures; and the chief information officer, which is currently vacant. It is unclear whether these four roles will be cut or simply demoted. Persson flagged that the next level of management, the 37 unit managers, would also be substantially cut. CEO, Rik Hart, has called a series of staff information sessions throughout the day on December 9 to include all staff, including those at work depots. United Services Union representative, Luke

Hutchinson, said he has had numerous meetings with the CEO about proposed workplace changes and staff levels. “Discussions I’m having with Council are in relation to a voluntary redundancy program and to limit the loss of rank and file or operational jobs or essential workers, which I think would be disastrous for delivery of services on the Central Coast,” he said. “The Union has been working with Council through all the staff changes and what we’re trying to achieve is that any of these changes don’t impact the community,” Hutchinson said. Sue Murray and Merilyn Vale

E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net - Website: www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

See page 17

Education

Auditors in Council’s sights Auditors are in the sights of Central Coast Council about advice provided on the reporting of restricted funds.

Compass Housing has teamed up with the Royal Botanic Gardens and Cerebral Palsy Alliance to build and plant-out a wheelchair accessible sensory garden... See page 31

Sport

Wyong, Northern Power and Lisarow-Ourimbah White claimed the points in Round 5 of Central Coast Cricket Association’s Women’s A Grade Competition.

See page 39

Puzzles page 23

Office: Level 2, 86-88 Mann St, Gosford & 3 Amy Close, Wyong - Phone: 4325 7369 - editorial@centralcoastnews.net - www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

Office: Level 2.01/86-88 Mann Street Gosford - Phone: 4325 7369 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250

The Central Coast’s very own opera company, Coast Opera Australia, is launching a new post-pandemic program, with Opera Afloat planned for February 2021.

See page 4

Reg the seal hauls out on Forresters Beach

After 20 years, tenants in the Gosford Parkside building are having to relocate to make way for the construction of Central Coast Council’s Gosford Regional Library.

See page 17

Health

Doreen Vandersteen, Lyn Clark-Duff, Janet Clark-Duff and Jenny Sullivan at the mural walls in tribute to the namesake of Ashley Chapman Reserve at Budgewoi

Full report, pages 6-7

Woy Woy Public School students participated in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander activities in celebration of NAIDOC Week 2020.

Over the past 18 months, a small group of Budgewoi locals have been rejuvenating a small foreshore reserve at the end of Noela Pl, bringing it back to life, firstly with a proud new name, Ashley Chapman Reserve, as well as wall murals in tribute of its namesake.

See page 17

• Other mitigation measures will include further borrowings, an increase in some Council charges and huge staff cuts which will see more than 200 go.

Acting CEO Rik Hart

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch is encouraging Central Coast young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to apply for scholarships now... See page 35

Sport

Avoca Beach will play host to a world-class surfing competition next year, with the Vissla Central Coast Pro set to be held from 2 to 7 March 2021. See page 40

Puzzles page 22

Office: Level 2, 86-88 Mann St, Gosford - Phone: 4325 7369 - Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 - E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net - Website: www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

/centralcoastnewspapers

/CoastNewspapers

2020 OFFICIAL

Auditors in Council’s sights From page 1 By the end of financial year 2020, which was June 30 of this year, the council had blown the budget by $89M. The forecast for this current financial year (financial year 2020-2021) is another blowout by $115M. That will take the Council’s accumulated loss to more than $230M but when paper losses of devalued asset sales are taken into account the loss is about $200M. The cash crisis emerged when the council announced in October that it had been using

restricted funds to pay operational costs. This money has to be repaid but Council can take its time repaying it and it will pay no interest on it in the meantime. The Council resolved in November for a $50M loan to be accepted so these restricted funds were no longer being used. The Council’s main focus now is to crystallise the losses this year so the Council can work on a balanced budget next year and for the next 10 years after that until the debt is paid. Council has in place a Business Recovery Plan and is

working on reducing costs; selling assets to raise money and looking at getting another loan to pay the bills until the council’s income is higher than its expenditure. For the $317M long term debt that Council is carrying, the Council is making interest payments and paying back the principle just like a resident would pay back a mortgage. The $200M that has to be paid back can be likened to a resident with a mortgage raiding their superannuation fund to pay for their lifestyle. Merilyn Vale

Unfilled vacancies may have distorted pre-amalgamation wage costs The State Government’s Fit For The Future program may have meant that councils, including Central Coast Council, tried to improve their positions to meet the criteria set out in the program.

said both the former Gosford and Wyong councils may have allowed staff vacancies to remain unfilled in the lead up to amalgamation. “This meant the cost of wages dropped $29M in the lead up to amalgamation when it normally goes up about three per cent per year,” Hart said. The combined cost of wages from the two former councils

dropped to $135M in May 2016, at the time of the merger, from an average of $165M in the years before. While the published staff numbers represented the structure, the actual number of employed staff were less. “When I talked to outdoor staff they said yes, we had vacancies that were not filled,” Hart said.

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

NEWS

Bipartisan opposition building against PEP11 renewal Professional Central Coast surfer Adrian “Ace” Buchan added his voice to growing chorus of opposition to the renewal of the PEP 11 licence for offshore gas exploration. In unusual scenes of solidarity outside Parliament House, the protesters, which included representatives of Save Our Coast and Surfrider Foundation Australia were joined by Zali Steggall and MPs from both sides of the political spectrum in their opposition to the licence renewal. The licence, which could permit drilling for gas off a large portion of the eastern seaboard, including the Central Coast, comes up for renewal in February, with NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro and Federal Minister for Resources and Water Keith Pitt forming the Joint Authority which will make the ultimate decision. Buchan, of Avoca Beach, said he had been concerned about PEP 11 for some time. “I’ve been lucky enough to call the Central Coast home all my life,” he said.

Ace Buchan in Canberra

“Five million Australians call the PEP 11 zone home, and for most of us the ocean defines our way of life. “Drilling in this ocean for fossil fuel in the middle of a climate emergency threatens not only the marine life and tourism that we regions rely on, but our very existence.” Member for Dobell, Emma McBride, reinforced her opposition to the permit. “Thousands of people have contacted me about this, concerned about the impact on our marine life, on our coastline, on our way of life,” McBride said. “It could also have a big

impact on the local economy; it’s senseless and it should be stopped.” McBride said the issue was “beyond and above politics” and called for a united stand from all Coast MPs. Member for Robertson, Lucy Wicks, has been deafeningly silent on the issue in recent times and is now the only MP in regions along the impacted coastline not to have voiced opposition to PEP 11. Wicks has previously there is a “cacophony of misinformation” in the community and it was important Coast residents were aware of the facts.

Say Hello to Freedom

The program was rolled out by the State Government in 2014 to modernise councils. Council’s Acting CEO Rik Hart

Join us for our OPEN HOME! SATURDAY 12 DECEMBER – 10am to 12noon Meet our friendly staff and residents, view our brand new homes and enjoy light refresments on us. Ingenia Lifestyle Sunnylake Shores is a welcoming over 55s lifestyle community overlooking Lake Munmorah. A safe and secure community giving you the freedom to choose to do the things you love, your way.

• No stamp duty • No exit fees • Pet friendly • Keep 100% of any capital gains

PAGE 3

11 DECEMBER 2020

NEW HOMES SELLING FROM $279,000* To register your interest call Jenni on 0458 018 332 2 MACLEAY DR, HALEKULANI liveinsunnylakeshores.com.au Terms and conditions apply. Price is based on owning your home and leasing the land and is correct at time of printing and subject to change without notice.

Continued page 4

PAGE 4

11 DECEMBER 2020

NEWS

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

The end of an era for youth services hub After 20 years, tenants in the Gosford Parkside building are having to relocate to make way for the construction of Central Coast Council’s Gosford Regional Library. The Gosford Parkside Building closes after 20 years

NIK & JANE’S

FURNITURE AND BEDDING EXPRESS

HUGE CHRISTMAS CLEAROUT PAY LESS FOR CASH FREE AIR MATTRESS WITH EVERY PURCHASE

GST FREE

POWERED ADJUSTABLE BED AND MATTRESS PACKAGES FROM

$1999

ALL SIZES

MOBILITY APPROVED

POWERED RECLINE /LIFT CHAIRS

from $499

Dining Suites from $499

Five organisations make up the youth service collective based in the building; RYSS (Regional Youth Support Services), ET Australia, ARC (Aftercare Resource Centre), Verto, and Options Disability. RYSS has worked out of the building since it was opened by then Premier Bob Carr, then Mayor Robert Bell, and the Pluim Group in 1999. RYSS CEO, Kim McLoughry, said the partnership they have had with other businesses over the years had been a valued one. “It has been a very long partnership with all of the tenants,” McLoughry said. “Sadly, we have now had to split our services.” From January 11, RYSS will run out of an office located at 131 Henry Parry Dr, Gosford, along with ARC. ET Australia will split its services and school between a site in the Gosford Imperial Centre and the building next door to Parkside. Verto will move into the same

Y T I IL ED B GST MO OV R P FREE AP ONLY ST NIK CAN DELIVER BEFORE CHRISTMAS

Available as 2 Seater

Sherry 3RR+R+R Now $1499

199

FREE Delivery - FREE Installation

BIG DEALS FOR SENIORS!

Shop 11, Karalta Plaza, Karalta Lane, Erina - 4365 0997

www.nikandjanes.com.au

Jacinta Counihan

Bipartisan opposition building against PEP11 renewal From page 3

Sofabeds from $499

building as ET Australia, and Options Disability will move to various locations over the Central Coast. McLoughry said the relocation had required a lot of organisation and work from all five organisations. “The move has collectively cost $4.5M,” McLoughry said. “We have all gone to a lot of effort. “Our hope is the Council fulfils its promises to the community by building the Gosford Regional Library, as it has been a big move for all of the tenants. “The Parkside Centre gets 10,000 visitors per year, and 200 people per day on average. “It has been a great space for the youth of the Central Coast.” McLoughry said she is disappointed there will be no replacement of the Youth Arts Warehouse, which was opened in 2007 by then Arts Minister Peter Garrett and can hold up to 250 people. RYSS recently won the 2020 NSW Outstanding Work with Aboriginal Young People Award, and collectively, the Parkside Multi Service Youth Centre was highly commended in the 2020 NSWYouth Services Partnership Award.

“If Asset Energy were to go ahead with any drilling activity they would need to apply to Australia’s independent offshore regulator, the National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Environmental Management Authority (NOPSEMA),” Wicks said. “The fact is that at this time, title holders of the PEP-11 permit area, Asset Energy, have not submitted any plans to NOPSEMA for any activity in the PEP-11 Permit area.” A Save Our Coast delegation presented thousands of community comments opposed to any offshore testing and drilling in a book with images of the local coastline on the day. Save Our Coast has been campaigning against PEP 11 since February 2018 and

collated 77,000 signatures on petitions, along with thousands of comments, expressing concern and outrage at any plan to blast and drill for gas off the coast. Save Our Coast founder, Natasha Deen, said the group was proud to have provided a platform for a chorus of diverse community voices opposing the permit. “We honour each and every one of the 77,000 thousand voices that have united with us to save our coast, and we are delighted to have the support of MPs from across the political divide and have them stand with us, to implore Minster Keith Pitt to draw a line under the flawed and risky PEP 11 project once and for all,” she said. Terry Collins

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

NEWS

PAGE 5

11 DECEMBER 2020

“There was asbestos all over the outside of my property” Central Coast residents thinking of renovating or doing home maintenance are urged to visit the asbestos awareness website after a home renovation at Terrigal saw asbestos particles blow onto nearby residences with at least two homeowners forced to evacuate. SafeWork NSW confirmed it was investigating an incident on November 19 where a painting contractor pressurecleaned a residential house roof containing asbestos. “Central Coast Council has issued a clean-up notice and SafeWork’s investigation is ongoing,” a spokesperson said. One resident, who did not wish to be named, said she was alerted to the situation when fine asbestos particles began to appear on her windows and the outside of her home. “A contractor was power washing the roof of the house next door and a neighbour rang Central Coast Council and SafeWork reporting air borne asbestos,” she said. “There was asbestos all over

One of the neighbouring houses was taped off and the resident was asked to evacuate

the outside of my property. “It took a couple of days for authorities to collect and test samples and two days later I was advised to evacuate my property, possibly until the new year. “It was very concerning because the workmen did not

appear to be wearing any PPE.” The resident said she knew of one other family in the street which had also evacuated. She said her insurance company had denied her claim and that she was exploring her options. “I moved in with my daughter

initially but there were too many steps for me to cope with,” she said. “I have arthritis and am a pensioner and have very specific needs, including ramp access and accessibility for home care, so relocating is a major issue for me.

“It was emotionally heartwrenching to see my house taped off. “Even my grandchildren’s toys were contaminated, and I was unable to hang out washing. “The hydrangeas in my garden were destroyed.

“I am a keen gardener and there is a real possibility that my lawn and garden might have to be bulldozed. “I am concerned too that some of my windows were opened before I was made aware of the problem.” A spokesperson for Central Coast Council said it is the responsibility of homeowners to be aware of asbestos containing materials on their property and manage asbestos risks correctly in line with SafeWork NSW requirements. “Central Coast Council has commenced enforcement action on the owner of the property responsible for the incident and is also liaising with neighbouring property owners to ensure the risk of contamination is managed appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “If residents are thinking about renovating or doing home maintenance, SafeWork NSW advises them to visit the asbestos awareness website or call 1800 Asbestos (1800 272 378) prior to doing work.” Terry Collins

Fancy a bonus gift, Woy Woy and Gosford? Receive a bonus BlueAnt X2 speaker when you sign up to any new month-to-month nbn™ internet bundle. Offer ends Monday, 15/02/2021. Visit your local Telstra Store to get your gift! Woy Woy Shop 24 Cnr Railway & Charlton St • 02 4341 0061 Gosford 171 Mann Street • 0436 937 336

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW: Offer available when you sign up to any new month-to-month nbn™ internet bundle from Telstra Store Woy Woy & Gosford between 14/12/2020 and 15/02/2021. Offer eligible to new customers during the offer dates who add on to an eligible service. BlueAnt X2 speaker terms & conditions apply.

PAGE 6

11 DECEMBER 2020

NEWS

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

Something is stirring in Ironbark Reserve Flora and fauna is returning to Ironbark Reserve in the Mangrove Mountain area after an absence, in some cases, of more than 50 years and Mangrove Mountain and Districts Community Group couldn’t be happier. Group secretary Margaret Pontifex said native animals and plants including the native waratah were being spotted in the reserve after being absent for a number of seasons following contamination of the creek and natural disasters. “In recent weeks, people have spotted powerful owls, large northern bandicoots, freshwater lobsters, wedgetailed eagles and even platypus, which haven’t been seen around here for years,” Pontifex said. “Over 40 years ago we saw our last platypus in Ironbark Gully following chemical contamination, but this year a platypus was filmed playing in the area for hours. “There is also a native marsupial with long black hair which cohabits happily with the platypus and we have seen quite a few plant species return. “The local waratah seed I

Native plants are returning to Ironbark Reserve

collected and planted in Ironbark Reserve has bloomed.” Pontifex said animals had fled the area, with clearing happening too close to the creek-line over a period of years. “But in recent years, there has been no clearing within 22 feet of the creek and that clear margin has seen animals return and a lot of regeneration,” she said. “State Forests has been wonderful in keeping the creek clear of activity and we

have been working hard with National Parks in recent years to control wild dogs and foxes. “Now there is a clear corridor through to nearby Popran National Park.” Pontifex said she had seen lyrebirds in her backyard, which is close to the reserve, for the first time in years. “And we’ve also seen bush turkeys and I’ve never seen them here before,” she said. “The area is being managed the way it always should have been, and we are returning to

The area would be the perfect spot for a relocation of koalas

the conditions of the 40s and 50s, when we lived quite happily with nature.” Pontifex said she had been in contact with nature activist Jake Cassar, who had identified every tree that koalas need to survive in the area. “The last koala we saw in the area was back in 1973, yet this year we have heard a koala bellowing,” she said. “We have been talking about trying to get the area dedicated to wildlife and even the possibility of relocating some

koalas here.” Cassar said apart from the many different types of rare and threatened flora and fauna species in the area, it also contained all the right trees for koalas to subside upon. “There are eucalypts such as Sydney Peppermint, Grey Gums, Bloodwoods, Scribbly gums and Ironbarks, which would make this a perfect area for koalas to be rehabilitated and released in,” he said. Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch, has welcomed the news.

“After the full brunt of drought, followed by the catastrophic bushfires across NSW that licked at Mangrove Mountain and led to the deaths of billions of animals, including many of our natives, and now COVID-19 to top it all off this year has been unfortunately full of disappointment,” Tesch said. “Despite all the heartaches this year has brought our wildlife are still roaming and our flowers are still blooming.”

Happy Holidays

From the teams at Creightons Funeral Service, Greenway and Palmdale Memorial Parks, we would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! While it has been a long and difficult year like no other, we wish you a safe time celebrating and connecting with family and loved ones. Our friendly team are here for you 24/7 over this Christmas and New Year period. Call our 24/7 phone line on 4324 1533.

02 4324 1533

Terry Collins

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

PAGE 7

11 DECEMBER 2020

NORTHCONNEX DELIVERED The $3 billion NorthConnex mega-project will be a game changer for Central Coast motorists. Reducing travel times by up to 15 minutes each way

Allowing drivers to avoid 21 sets of traffic lights along Pennant Hills Road

Busting congestion so you spend less time in traffic

LUCY WICKS MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR ROBERTSON

Authorised by Lucy Wicks MP, Liberal Party of Australia, Level 3, 69 Central Coast Hwy, West Gosford NSW 2250.

Level 3, 69 Central Coast Highway, West Gosford NSW 2250 02 4322 2400 lucy.wicks.mp@aph.gov.au lucywicksmp.com LucyWicksMP

PAGE 8

11 DECEMBER 2020

NEWS

With a controversial 70home housing development proposed by Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council (DLALC) at Kariong still under consideration by the NSW Planning Department, indigenous and non-indigenous community groups have joined forces to oppose it. The proposed development, adjacent to environmentally sensitive and culturally significant land on Woy Woy Rd, was determined by the Joint Regional Planning Panel to have strategic and site-specific merit in July. But latest advice from Planning Department Senior Planning Officer, Strategic Planning, Andrew Hill, is that there are no updates on the status of the proposal. Coast Environmental Alliance (CEA) spokesperson, Jake Cassar, said the discovery of a culturally significant site on the land should be a“gamechanger” in the consideration of the proposal. He said there has already been community uproar over alleged illegal clearing and an

Local indigenous groups rally against DLALC development in Kariong visitors, their children and their pets. “We also believe that once one portion is approved for development, it’s never long before more rezoning is applied for and construction continues and encroaches closer to Bambara Sacred Lands,” Howie said. “The ridge line that the proposed development is part of, is extremely significant to Wannangini (Guringai and Awabakal) boys and men, directly relating to kinship, cultural responsibilities, intergenerational responsibilities, and obligations. Jake Cassar and Tracey Howie at the proposed development site “Now that we know there is “I was shocked to recently illegal clearing, but the State indeed a site there, we need to arson attack on the site earlier learn that the State Government Government seems to be do everything we can to in the year. “To date, no-one has been is allowing this development to willing to allow this to progress preserve it.” found responsible for the illegal proceed to the next stage based on the old reports that Howie said the entire area is clearing, and the arsonist was based on surveys that occurred don’t include this uncovered still used today for the education found guilty, but escaped a after a substantial amount of Aboriginal site.” of Aboriginal and noncustodial sentence,” Cassar the land had been bulldozed,” Tracey Howie, from Guringai Aboriginal youth, where they Cassar said. said. Tribal Link, said the group are taught about bush foods, “Our group was told by the believes any development of tracking, ADVERTISEMENT and how to care for A Central Coast Council spokesperson said Council’s Department of Planning, the area would encourage the land. compliance team was in the Industry and Environment excessive use of the adjoining “Our cultural heritage and process of investigating the (DPIE) that an Aboriginal site Bambara Sacred Lands and Country have been directly removal of native vegetation on was discovered underneath surrounding landscape, by impacted at a rapid rate due to bulldozed trees during the potential residents, ADVERTISEMENT their the massive influx of the site. investigation into the alleged

developments across the Central Coast” she said. “The State Government could purchase the land from DLALC and amalgamate it into the National Park that surrounds the majority of the site.” Renee Sales said her ancestors, the Darkinoong, shared the sacred places with the Guringai people. “The Darkinoong plan on working with the Guringai and everyone in the community who has fought tirelessly to defend Kariong Sacred Lands,” she said. “Together we must find a way to protect this land for our future generations.” Sales said the land held a particularly important part of pre-colonial history. “Our stories are engraved in the sandstone, carved in the trees, and painted on the walls of the caves,” she said. The groups are encouraging residents to write to local State MPs voicing their concerns. Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council declined to comment.

Emma McBride MP u m

MEMBER FO Terry Collins

Emma McBride MP MEMBER FOR DOBELL

for our comm Emma Caring McBride MP MEMBER FOR DOBELL ADVERTISEMENT

thr ough

Caring for our community DO YOU HELP WITH A Caring for ourNEED community

Emma loves the Coast. A true local, Emma’s family has been on the Coast for generations - and she went throug school in Wyong and Tuggerah. up

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT MATTER?

loves the Coast. A true local, Emma’s family has been on the Coast for generations - and she went through The CoastEmma is her home and she’s working hard to make our community an even better place to live. school in Wyong and Tuggerah.

Emma loves the Coast. A true local, Emma’s family has been on the Coast for generations - and she went through Emma spent 20 years working in health, 10 years as a Pharmacist at Wyong Hospital. school in Wyong and Tuggerah. The Coast is her home and she’s working hard to make our community an even better place to live.

She moved her way up

from a clinical post to deputy director of pharmacy.

The Coast is her home and she’s working community anyears evenasbetter place at toWyong live. Hospital. She moved her way up nd Emmahard spentto20make years our working in health, 10 a Pharmacist

• Defence & She fought to save Wyong Hospital from privatisation and will stand up for pensioners, working families and Emma works tirelessly foredicare the Coast. • M Veterans young people. Emma works tirelessly for the Coast. Emma understands families• are N doing it tough and will do her best toAffairs care for our community by: DIS ships •Protecting Centrelink • Education &funding Medicare and strengthening Guaranteeing TAFE our hospitals and creating new apprenticeships •Restoring NBNpenalty rates and easing Training Investing in cheaper, on family budgets cleaner renewable energy •pressure Taxation • Congratulatory local schools with $43.7 •Strengthening C hild Support messages million more funding

Emma works tirelessly the Coast. • Cfor OVID-19

from 10 a clinical deputy director of pharmacy. Emma spent 20 years working in health, yearspost as atoPharmacist at Wyong Hospital. She moved her way up from a clinical post to deputy director of pharmacy.

She fought to save Wyong Hospital from privatisation and will stand up for pensioners, working families and She fought to save Wyong Hospital from and will stand up for pensioners, working families and youngprivatisation people. young people.

Emma understands families are doing it tough and will do her best to care for our community by:

Protecting Medicare and strengthening

Protecting Medicare and strengthening our hospitals our hospitals

Guaranteeing TAFE funding

Guaranteeing TAFE funding and creating new apprenticeships and creating new apprenticeships

Restoring penaltyInvesting rates and easing Investing in cheaper, Restoring penalty rates and easing in cheaper, pressure on family budgets cleaner renewable energy pressure on family budgets cleaner renewable energy Strengthening local schools with $43.7 Strengthening local schools with $43.7 million more funding million more funding

Mail: PO Box 3763 Tuggerah NSW 2259 Mail: PO 3763 Tuggerah Mail: PO BoxBox 3763 Tuggerah NSW 2259 NSW 2259 02 4353 0127 @ emma.mcbride.mp@aph.gov.au @ emma.mcbride.mp@aph.gov.au @ emma.mcbride.mp@aph.gov.au 01270127 ✆ 02 024353 4353 www.facebook.com/mcbrideemma

www.facebook.com/mcbrideemma www.facebook.com/mcbrideemma

Authorised by Emma McBride, MP, ALP, Suite 204, 1 Bryant Drive, Tuggerah NSW 2259.

Authorised by Emma McBride, ALP, 204/1 Bryant Drive, Tuggerah NSW 2259

Authorised by Emma McBride, MP, ALP, Suite 204, 1 Bryant Drive, Tuggerah NSW 2259.

Authorised by Emma McBride, MP, ALP, Suite 204, 1 Bryant Drive, Tuggerah NSW

NSW

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

NEWS

PAGE 9

11 DECEMBER 2020

Australian Conservation Foundation adds to calls for stronger protection of COSS lands The Central Coast branch of the Australian Conservation Foundation (ACFCC) wants to see a specific environmental protection zone created for all Coastal Open Space System (COSS) land in the region. The group is calling on NSW Minister for Planning, Rob Stokes, and all state MPs to create the zoning for inclusion in the Central Coast Combined Local Environment Plan (LEP) and Development control Plan (DCP) now being formulated. “The proposed E2 zone is inconsistent with providing the high environmental protection it claims to provide the jewel in

the crown of the Central Coast environment,” ACFCC president, Mark Ellis, said. “Gosford City Council area was fortunate to have leaders with vision to create the COSS in the past and provide the green backdrop to the city. “Since the introduction of the standard template in 2006, COSS has stood out on its own due to its unique status and requirement for a special environmental zone to protect the lands from development. “The former council requested a specific environmental zone to accommodate this jewel in the crown of Gosford City. “The NSW Planning

Department supported a specific zone in 2010, and in 2015. “In 2017, Central Coast Council voted to protect COSS and took the motion to the Local Government conference where a specific environmental zone was supported by the conference delegates to protect the unique COSS. “It was just the political will of our leaders that was missing to support the community’s desire to maintain the environmental integrity of COSS which covers ridgelines and endangered bushlands. “Mr Stokes was happy to work with the council then, why not in 2020?

“The only thing that has changed is the Council staff and CEO. “The structure, funding and importance of a stand-alone environmental protection zone remains.” Ellis said COSS lands face the threat of being placed in E2 zone which allows secondary developments and housing. “To rezone our environmental lands and COSS for urban and residential is contradictory to the key objective of Council’s adopted Biodiversity Strategy,” he said. Source: Media release, Dec 7 Central Coast Australian Conservation Foundation

Rumbalara Reserve at East Gosford is one of the areas listed under COSS

Coast Connect Central Coast Council’s weekly news and community information

From Council Last Wednesday at an Extraordinary Meeting of Council I delivered my 30 Day Interim Report into Central Coast Council’s finances. The ten-page plain english report has provided the community with an insight into the catastrophic financial mismanagement that has plagued the council for the past three years. Council’s operating loss for the current financial year is on track to be in order of $115M, this follows last year’s loss of $89M. Accumulated losses for the last four years are $232M, debt has risen from $317M to $565M since amalgamation. Employee costs have risen by 42% while revenue has risen by only 6%. Tough and timely measures are needed immediately: • Significant asset sales of at least $40M over each of the next two years • Further borrowings • A substantial rate increase • An increase in some council charges • A major reduction in Council’s senior and middle management numbers • A reduction in staff numbers to return to the level at the time of amalgamation I understand the community’s outrage over the findings, including the measures to bring Council back to a balanced budget. I sincerely wish there was some other way of getting rid of the deficit without any burden on ratepayers. Please read the report now available at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au. Most of the savings will come from reducing operating expenses.

Dick Persson AM Administrator, Central Coast Council

New era of summer safety

Summer is an amazing time to be on the Coast, both for locals and visitors. Many of us will head to our spectacular beaches, shop till we drop and enjoy great food at the outstanding cafés and restaurants peppered across the Coast. Our summer season is also our busiest time – record numbers are expected in 2020-21.

This summer is a little different to others as well – we remain in the midst of a global pandemic and the Bureau of Meteorology has declared that we are officially in a La Niña phase of our climate pattern. This means our sea surface temperatures will be warmer than normal here on the Central Coast and as a result, we could be in for a wet summer with an increased chance of rain, flooding and cyclones. So we need to remember some additional safety steps this season: • Be COVID-safe • Be safe on the beach and around water • ‘Get Ready’ for extreme weather • Safety out and about • Safe travels • Safe celebrations

Our Coast Summer Safety campaign is all about equipping us with the knowledge to follow simple steps to keep safe this summer, so that it is a great time for everyone. Find out more, search ‘Summer Safety’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Council meeting

To find out when the next Council meeting is and to view it online go to centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/ meetings

Development Applications and Consents Development Applications and Consents can be inspected at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au by searching ‘Development Applications’ or in person at Council offices in Gosford and Wyong 8.30am-5pm weekdays.

Under the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2019, submissions on Development Applications are required to be published on our website. Submissions lodged using Council’s DA Submission Form or online portal will have personal contact details and signature redacted. All other submissions will be published in full. Your submission may also be reproduced in full in Council reports or in Court proceedings.

Safety out and about

As we get ‘out and about’ we must be extra careful to keep children and our four-legged friends safe. Keeping kids safe This holiday period, there’ll be plenty of kids visiting our holiday spots. • •

Drivers: take extra care as excited young kids keen to get to the beach or playground may not be aware of cars using any roads in their path.

Mums, dads, grandparents and carers: hold your child’s hand and watch them at all times when they are in or near water

Pet safety When out and about it’s important to keep dogs on a leash, except when in an allocated off-the-leash area. We have a number of off-the-leash areas but owners must ensure their dog is under effective command control. Remember dogs and cats are prohibited to enter schools, shopping centres, public-bathing areas including beaches (except in designated areas), food preparation areas, sporting fields, wildlife protection areas, and come within 10 metres of children’s playground equipment. Find out more, search ‘safety’ or ‘pets’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Council’s financial situation

Council has adopted a Recovery Action Plan that will review all aspects of Council’s operations. For up-to-date information search ‘news’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Be the

first

to know!

at Sign up today .gov.au/ sw .n st centralcoa enews

Council Offices 2 Hely St Wyong / 49 Mann St Gosford | 8.30am - 5pm, Monday to Friday | P 1300 463 954 NEXT ISSUE Don’t miss the next issue. Sign up for our e-news at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/enews

PAGE 10 11 DECEMBER 2020

NEWS

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

Labor accuses State Government of council waste rip-off Central Coast Council is calling for a reinvestment of waste levy funds collected by the State Government into the local government area. Last year, Council paid close to $30M to the Government in waste levies, recouping just $323,000 in direct funding in addition to indirect funding through various programs. A Council spokesperson said the LGA is recognised by the NSW EPA as being part of the Metropolitan Levy Area for the purposes of calculating the waste levy. “That means Council is required to pay the NSW Government $146 for each tonne of waste landfilled,” the spokesperson said. “NSW Councils in the Regional Levy Area pay the regional rate of $86.10, whilst much of rural and regional NSW pays no levy. “In 2019/20 the waste levy payable by Central Coast Council was $29.9M, of which $13.5M was attributable to the disposal of waste collected as part of Council’s domestic waste collection services. “In return, Council received $323,000 in direct funding in addition to indirect funding

Central Coast Council wants more of the waste levy collected by the State Government reinvested into the LGA

through participation in a range of programs funded by the NSW waste levy. “Council would like to see the NSW Government reinvest waste levy funds back to the source local government areas.” The spokesperson said reinvested funds could be used to help councils develop regional-scale plans for the

future of waste and recycling in their regions, to drive the delivery of priority infrastructure and other projects needed to deliver these plans, to purchase recycled content and to fund a state-wide education campaign on the importance of recycling. Council’s comment follows a call from State Labor for urgent change following the recent

release of the NSW Auditor General’s Waste Levy and Grants for Waste Infrastructure report. Labor says the report found the Government had collected almost $4B from residents across the state over the past six years, but only a third of those funds have been invested back into waste and environmental programs.

The levy was designed to reduce landfill, increase recycling and promote broader environmental outcomes, none of which were being achieved, Labor says. Shadow Minister for Local Government, Greg Warren, said the Government had used the levy to rip NSW residents off. “Residents across the state are being taxed billions of

dollars through their council rates, but two thirds of the money isn’t being spent on what it is meant for,” he said. “The funding allocated for waste and environmental programs is minuscule compared to the taxes being collected year after year.” But a NSW Government spokesperson said the government would continue to support councils in delivering waste management services. “The NSW Government has allocated an additional $85M in this year’s Budget to continue important waste and recycling programs and provide certainty for councils while work on the 20 Year Waste Strategy is completed,” the spokesperson said. “Currently, one third of the waste levy is returned directly to environment programs including Waste Less, Recycle More – the largest waste and recycling program in Australia. “The remaining two thirds goes toward funding critical infrastructure and services for our State like hospitals, schools and roads.”

WEST RYDE

NEWINGTON BALMAIN

NEWINGTON Unit 5, 2 Holker Street (Cnr Ave of Asia) Newington NSW 2127

WEST RYDE 1079 Victoria Road West Ryde NSW 2114

CENTRAL COAST CENTRAL COAST U5, 11-13 Cochrone Street Kincumber NSW 2251

BALMAIN 450 Darling Street Balmain NSW 2041

THE FABRIC SHOP SUPPORTING PEOPLE WITH DISABILITY NOW ON THE CENTRAL COAST 1300 22 44 38

Achieve Australia

@achievesewingbasket

thesewingbasket.com.au

Terry Collins

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

NEWS

PAGE 11 11 DECEMBER 2020

Point Clare vet recognised for WWII service With 12 years in the navy, a marriage ceremony in his 80s, and years of charity work under his belt, Keith Thompson-Burke (also known as ThompsonBaggs), has lived a full life. Now 98, Thompson-Burke has been thanked for his World War II service, receiving a certificate and medallion from local ex-naval officer, Kerry Spencer. The presentation for the Point Clare local was held on November 20 at West Gosford RSL and included a small

presentation and afternoon tea. Judith Edgington and her husband have become his legal guardians and hold Power of Attorney and said ThompsonBurke is a very humble person. “He kept saying ‘I’m just an ordinary bloke, why all this fuss’,” Edgington said. “He has been a wonderful man and a loyal and loving husband.” Born in South Australia, Keith Thompson-Burke went through many foster homes and was finally adopted by Elizabeth

Baggs, changing his name by choice to Keith ThompsonBaggs. He joined the army in 1941, and after 258 days he enlisted in the navy in 1942. He spent the next 12 years serving as a stoker mechanic on the HMAS Melville in Lonsdale, Shropshire, Hobart, and then Sydney. After leaving the navy, Thompson-Burke, moved to Sydney and worked for the General Post Office for 30 years, eventually moving to Central Coast with his first

wife, Meg. He spent 20 years as a Legacy Australia worker, caring for the dependants of deceased Australian servicemen and women as well as serving 50 years as a freemason. Meg sadly passed away with Thompson-Burke caring for her until the end. Following the tragedy, he threw himself into more work with Legacy and also joined a Probus club, remaining a member until going into care. A time later, while working with Legacy Australia,

Thompson-Burke met Glen, a secretary, whom he married in his 80s. Glen has since passed away, and Thompson-Burke now lives at the BaptistCare Orana Aged Care Centre. Edgington sees him every week and said he is very happy in his care home. “We all owe Keith a big thank you for his effort in helping to keep our country safe so that today we can live in a free country,” she said. Jacinta Counihan

Navy Veteran, Keith Thompson-Burke

Road signs to highlight Aboriginal connection to Country New road signs at Empire Bay and Ourimbah will be among several to be erected on the Central Coast to reflect the Aboriginal Nation. Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Paul Toole, said a pilot program connecting road users to Country is being rolled out across the State, with Darkinjung Country on the Central Coast and Yaegl Country in Northern NSW chosen to

receive the first sets of signs. “Many transport routes in NSW follow traditional Aboriginal Songlines, trade routes and ceremonial paths in Country, followed by Aboriginal people for tens of thousands of years,” Toole said. “These include roads, rail lines and water crossings around the State, so it’s a step forward to recognise the lands these routes cross by incorporating the new Acknowledgement of Country

signs at important locations.” Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal, Adam Crouch, said six signs being unveiled on and near the Central Coast feature an artwork that reflects the Darkinjung cultural landscape. “Installing these signs showcases and promotes the deep connection Darkinjung people have with Country and helps develop awareness in our community,” Crouch said. “Transport for NSW has

worked closely with the Darkinjung community to develop the signage and choose locations for the signs at Bushells Ridge, Catherine Hill Bay, Cheero Point, Doyalson, Empire Bay and Ourimbah.” The Board of Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council welcomed the decision to install new signage. “This public acknowledgement reinforces the unique and intrinsic connection the Darkinjung

people have to Country here on the Central Coast,” a Board spokesperson said. “Darkinjung Country is land and waters that are central to our identity, wellbeing, culture and heritage and it is gratifying to have our sacred connection to Country recognised in this manner. “While this acknowledgment has been a long time coming we welcome it coming in the year 2020, in which our communities’ NAIDOC theme

was Always Was, Always Will Be.” Transport for NSW is continuing to develop the pilot program and will work closely with other Aboriginal Nations to roll out similar signs across the State. Source: Media release, Dec 9 Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch

Liesl Tesch MP Member for Gosford

Schools and education Community Recognition Awards

Anniversary & birthday messages Fair Trading Hospitals and health Main roads

Police and Emergency Services Public housing

Trains and public transport

Authorised by Liesl Tesch, 20 Blackwall Road, Woy Woy NSW 2256. Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements.

How can I help?

20 Blackwall Road, Woy Woy NSW 2256

Gosford@parliament.nsw.gov.au (02) 4342 4122 Peninsula News - half page - Aug 20.indd 1

30/10/2020 10:20:13 AM

PAGE 12 11 DECEMBER 2020

NEWS

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

The important role of foster parents and forever families With National Adoption Awareness Month having drawn to a close at the end of November, Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch, said NSW was leading the way when it comes to finding forever homes for children and young people in outof-home care. “Every child on the Central Coast should have a safe, loving and permanent home,” Crouch said. “I am so pleased the NSW Government was able to assist in 17 adoptions from out-ofhome care to Central Coast families in 2019/20. “There is always more to do, and our Government’s priority is to find ‘forever families’ for children who cannot remain with their birth parents for safety reasons.” The Latimer family of

The Latimer family of Copacabana Photo Barnardos

Copacabana can attest to the benefits of adoption. Bernie and Matthew Latimer have four adopted children and couldn’t be happier. “We started off as foster carers through Bernardos in

January, 2014,” Bernie Latimer said. “We fostered three siblings for a couple of years until early 2016, when they went back to live with their birth mother. “But they came back in

December of that year, along with a fourth sibling. “We decided to put the adoption process into action and in October 2019 we adopted all four. “It has been fabulous for all of us - we now have a sense of stability and the kids are all thriving.” Ranging in age from 16-6, the children are all high performers, she said. “We have four children at varying stages of development from Kindy to high school and it’s so rewarding to see how far they’ve come,” Latimer said. “I would definitely encourage others to adopt. “It has changed our lives, and of course the children’s lives. “They now feel they have a permanent home and are part of a community instead of going from one foster home to another.

“They have improved academically, socially, and emotionally.” Barnardos Australia CEO, Deirdre Cheers said keeping siblings together and preserving vital relationships was paramount, especially for children in foster care who have already been through a great deal of upheaval in their young lives. “Barnardos is always looking for people like the Latimers who are willing to open their hearts and homes to foster and adopt older children and groups of siblings, while supporting transparency and openness through birth family contact,” she said. In NSW, people can now be assessed, trained and authorised to become both a foster carer and adoptive parent at the same time, so applicants don’t have to undergo the authorisation

process multiple times. Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services, Gareth Ward, said the NSW Government has streamlined the adoption process and promoted the lifechanging role adoption plays. “Not only is it important to provide permanency for children, but it is vital to do it in a way where they feel connected to their heritage and understand where they came from,” he said. The NSW Government is strengthening support for foster and kinship carers and prospective adoptive parents through the $7M My Forever Family program, which offers training and support to parents. In 2018/19, NSW accounted for 96 per cent of all carer adoptions in Australia. Terry Collins

Plans for $387M upgrade to Central Coast Highway take shape

Community feedback is helping to shape plans for a $387M upgrade of the Central Coast Highway between Bateau Bay and Wamberal designed to make trips safer and faster for thousands of motorists. Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Paul Toole, said consultation on the State Government’s plan to widen a 3.8km section of the highway showed how important the project was to the community. “We sought feedback in June and July this year on the initial designs for the proposed upgrade because we want to get this project right and give

locals the upgrade they want,” Toole said. “The proposal will improve travel times and safety by widening the highway to two lanes in both directions between Wamberal and Bateau Bay. “About 26,500 motorists use this section of the highway daily and this upgrade will ensure it’s prepared to handle future growth on the Central Coast.” Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal, Adam Crouch, said the community came back with a lot of positive feedback with 223 responses received. “Many residents and

stakeholders expressed the view this upgrade was long overdue, and agreed that it will help fix the traffic congestion during peak times and the proposed shared pathway will improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists,” Crouch said. “The Community Consultation Summary Report outlines all the feedback received and includes responses from Transport for NSW to each issue raised.” As part of the upgrade, Transport for NSW has awarded a contract to AECOM Australia to develop the design and environmental assessment of the Tumbi Rd intersection, which is expected to be displayed to the community

late next year. “This intersection is a major pinch point along this section of the highway and will be fasttracked as part of the overall project,” Crouch said. “Upgrading the 3.8km section of Central Coast Hwy will be challenging, but it is incredibly important for the community and we are not going to shy away from the hard work.” More information about the Central Coast Highway upgrade and the Consultation Summary report can be found at nswroads.work/cch. Source: Media release, Dec 3 Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch, and Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Paul Toole, at the Central Coast Hwy, Forresters Beach

Live Well at Home during and beyond COVID-19

We Do Home Care Differently CHSP, NDIS & Home Care Packages • Leading provider of in-home care services, including personal care, meal preparation, household task, Social support, transport, gardening and more! • 24/7 Live-in, Post-Hospital, Respite and Casual Care throughout Central Coast & Hunter Region Call Today to arrange a FREE • Experienced with advanced care needs, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. In-Home consultation! • Providing care services to NDIS clients to achieve their goals • Consistency of care with carefully matched Carers • Zero exit fees, low case management fees – more care hours available!

02 4353 1700

WWW.COASTWIDECOMMUNITYCARE.COM.AU - ENHANCING LIFE, EXCELLING IN CARE

ON THE BEAT Brisbane Water PD welcomes four new recruits SHARE

Brisbane Water Police District has four new probationary officers, following a special ceremony and attestation parade at the Sydney Cricket Ground on December 4. The new officers took up their positions on December 7, along with four probationary officers at Tuggerah Lakes. Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal, Adam Crouch, said the region had now welcomed 21 new police officers this year, all of whom have boosted public safety at a time when it is most needed. “Our men and women in blue put their lives on the line every

day to protect the community,” Crouch said. “I thank and congratulate every single one of these officers for choosing to join the Force and I wish them all a long and successful career.” The new recruits have completed eight months of foundational training and attested at the special ceremony, paying tribute to the Classes of 2020, who joined the Police Force to protect NSW during the catastrophic bushfire season and at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David

Raiders player among four men charged following Kincumber brawl Canberra Raiders player, Tom Starling is one of four men who have been charged after police were allegedly assaulted during a brawl at Kincumber on December 5. About 10.45pm officers from Brisbane Water Police District were called to a restaurant and licensed premises on the corner of the Scenic Highway and Avoca Dr and assisted security staff, who were involved in an altercation with a patron who had allegedly failed to leave the premises. A 19-year-old man was arrested and while he was being escorted from the venue, police will allege three other men – aged 20, 22 and 24 – became aggressive and assaulted police numerous times in an attempt to intervene. With assistance from the Public Order and Riot Squad, all four men were arrested and taken to Gosford Police Station. A male senior constable sustained a cut to his hand and

was assessed by paramedics at the scene. No other officers were injured during the incident. The 19-year-old man was charged with failing to leave premises when required, common assault, resisting an officer in execution of duty, assaulting an officer in execution of duty and affray. The 20-year-old man was taken to Gosford Hospital for treatment of a laceration on his arm. He, a 22-year-old man and a 24-year-old man were all charged with assaulting an officer in execution of duty, affray and resisting or hindering a police officer in the execution of duty. They were all granted conditional bail to appear at Gosford Local Court on January 21.

BRAZEL MOORE

Media release, Dec 6 NSW Police Media

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

PAGE 13 11 DECEMBER 2020

Elliott, said the NSW Government is committed to supporting them throughout their careers. “Our police cadets have faced exceptional challenges this year, but they have shown they can overcome difficult circumstances to complete their training, and they will now use the same resilience to push them forward in their new careers,” Elliott said. The NSW Government has already committed $583M to introduce 1,500 extra police over four years and recently announced a $60M upgrade to the Goulburn Police Academy. Email, Dec 7 Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch

Superintendent Tony Joice and the four new recruits

Major success for PACER program The percentage of people transported by the police to hospital for mental health assessments on the Central Coast has halved in the past six months, thanks to the NSW Government’s PACER program. The Police Ambulance and Clinical Early Response (PACER) program is an innovative police and mental health partnership, acting as an early invention method when dealing with mental health patients. Minister for Mental Health, Bronnie Taylor, visited Gosford Police Station on December 2 to see first-hand the success of the program, launched in June. “The program includes basing mental health clinicians here in police stations to work very closely with police officers,” Taylor said. “If a police officer gets a call and receives information that the person may have a mental illness, they then will speak with the mental health clinician based there, seek advice, and ask them to come out to do an assessment of the person.” Taylor said six PACER

Minister for Mental Health, Bronnie Taylor, Commander of the Brisbane Water Police District, Superintendent Tony Joice and Central Coast Local Health District Director of Mental Health, Anthony Critchley

clinicians have been working out of Brisbane Water Police District and Tuggerah Lakes Police District since June, helping police to manage mental health emergencies. “The result of PACER in this area has been absolutely phenomenal,” she said. “PACER’s collaborative approach means that people on the Central Coast needing urgent mental health support are already getting better, more targeted help, sooner. “The most important thing here is it is allowing the police to get on with what they need

to do, and that keeps them safe. “It means they can stick to their expertise of policing and the mental clinicians can stick to their expertise.” Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch, said PACER is enabling rehabilitation and recovery in the community. “Over the past six months, Gosford Hospital has seen a 26 per cent reduction in mental health patients being transferred by police,” Crouch said. “There’s also been a 6 per cent drop in involuntary presentations compared to the

same period last year. “For a relatively short period of time, this is an outstanding result, and I’m so pleased that Central Coast people experiencing mental health issues have had more access to alternative pathways to care.” Commander of the Brisbane Water Police District, Superintendent Tony Joice, has also applauded the joint initiative. “The real-time availability of clinicians when people may be experiencing an episode has been invaluable,” Joice said. “It has resulted in a significant reduction in time taken for police to respond to mental health-related incidents.” Central Coast Local Health District Director of Mental Health, Anthony Critchley, said PACER would also provide broader social benefits. “By ensuring people receive expert mental health care at times of crisis in an environment they are familiar with, we are sending the message that help is available, and it is okay to ask for it,” Critchley said. Jacinta Counihan

FREECALL - 1800 891 691 - 4324 7699 FAMILY

LAWYERS

131-133 Donnison Street Gosford - www.familylawgosford.com.au

Hi, I’m Michelle Meares, Lawyer Specialising in Family Law When people are going through separation and divorce, it can be very stressful. My aim is to provide a supportive environment for all of my Family Law Clients to help them find their way to making clear informed decisions about their matter.

I work to resolve Family Law disputes without the need for Court Intervention. However, if litigation becomes necessary, I am a skilled advocate with a strategic approach to effectively guide you through your complex situation.

If you are going through a separation and want to find out I always communicate clearly, in simple terms and I welcome where you stand in relation to property or parenting issues, questions. call now for a free confidential chat.

PAGE 14 11 DECEMBER 2020

FORUM Can the Administrator trust his staff? FORUM SHARE

Coast Community News on November 27 leads with an article flagging that a rate rise is on the cards.

Low lying fruit is always the easiest to pick. (Administrator Dick) Persson seems to have formed the decision that the $89M deficit is the responsibility of the ratepayers. Clearly there are some questionable financial policies in place and some seriously questionable governance issues at the Council. Speaking of governance, I note from your paper (“Report on Council finances due next week”) Mr Persson made a “captain’s pick” of Mr Malcolm Ryan to assist him. Is (he) suggesting that not a single person at the Central Coast Council is trustworthy or capable of the task of assisting

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

him with the “possible merging of the LEPs”? This conclusion is inescapable and a great worry - does it mean that anything Mr Persson tries to implement will be derailed or disregarded? If this is such an important task, why was the position not advertised in the media and at large so the recruitment process is transparent and the people of the Central Coast (it is the people’s Council as you point out Mr Persson) are assured the best possible person is awarded the position? It may be that Mr Ryan would be awarded the position after going through a transparent and rigorous recruitment process; I am not suggesting otherwise. [deleted]

Clearly Mr Ryan has demonstrated expertise and clearly Mr Ryan and Mr Persson have a good working relationship. However, that is not the issue. The Central Coast Council must be a basket case of toxicity: no one is taking responsibility for the $89M deficit that will burden rate payers for years to come. It also appears none of the staff are trustworthy enough to work with Mr Persson on “important issues”. The culture needs a complete overhaul from top to bottom and sadly, Mr Persson’s captain’s pick of Mr Ryan does not bode well for the implementation of any plan to change the culture at this sad and sorry place.

They are only caretakers, like us all, of the land and public buildings. If Council wishes to sell a council building, sell Wyong Council chambers, as Gosford is a City [and] not just a shire

anymore. In 1980 we were granted City status, thanks to those who saw that we have come of age. Gosford and some parts of the Central Coast look like a garbage dump; streets with trees growing in the footpaths

and in the middle of roadways. So, the people are asking senior Council staff where is our money going to? Why are you [inside workers] overpaid and no outside workers cleaning up? The public demand answers.

Wishful thinking is not enough. To verify such an assertion,

FORUM one would need to compare life cycle costs for the different generating methods. That is, one would need to calculate the capital, maintenance and operating costs as well as the electricity produced over the life cycle of

Suspension (of councillors) by the Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock was a necessary action on a number of fronts, especially Council’s unwillingness to disclose comprehensive details on its financial position. The neglect of pocket communities is another concern. Jane Smith [says] that while the councillors are away, Central Coast communities lack representation. What representation?

each method, then compare the cost of electricity in cents per KWh. To date, I am not aware of any such study that supports Mr Cameron’s assertion. Email, Dec 5 Charles Hemmings, Woy Woy

FORUM Ms Smith won’t even answer emails from voters from her own Ward. I think this speaks more to misrepresentation than representation; a case in point being the decades-long neglect of roads and footpaths in pocket communities, such as Empire Bay. Here, the most the Council can do is to inform troubled residents the repair of roads and the provision of footpaths will be many years in the future. Residents have waited many years from the past.

Voices from multiple pocket communities generally are not heard, while councillors bask in … new developments in central business districts. Meanwhile, pocket communities on the Central Coast are ignored and become increasingly rundown. If any assistance is provided, grants come from other levels of government. Elsewhere, councillors become so immersed in future development; only at election time are the real needs of constituents given recognition - and faux recognition at that. Email, Dec 9 Peter Sinclair, Empire Bay

Will councillors act honourably? Regarding the current Council debt fiasco, it can be hard to formulate exact judgements about the individuals involved. Never fear, there is a way. Soon we will see whether the Council and the CEO are honourable or not, according to whether the councillors resign

FORUM and whether Murphy declines his outrageous payout - in each case, the minimum honourable requirement. If they don’t act honourably, we can reasonably deduce that the failures were largely their

fault. So Council, judgement day is coming. And I wonder, if you condemn yourselves by not resigning, will you be expecting us to trust you again? Email, Dec 4 Simon Tonkin, East Gosford

Administrator keeping us informed

Emails, Dec 3 and Dec 6 Robert Findley, Point Clare

Are renewables really cheaper? I refer to Geoff Cameron’s email in Forum of Issue 271 of Coast News where he says: “renewables are now cheaper than traditional fossil fuel generators”.

One must applaud the decision to place Central Coast Council under administration.

Email, Nov 30 Jennifer Berry, Copacabana

Maybe we should sell Wyong Council chambers FORUM

Councils or Governments don’t have the right to sell something they don’t own.

Neglect of pocket communities

Whilst Administrator Dick Persson is at the reins of Central Coast Council (CCN270), he has religiously kept the community informed in this newspaper. It amazes me in issue 271 (that) Jane Smith is rabbiting on about losing planning decisions. What has she been doing the last four years, besides Warnervale airport and her

negative website? Also it seemed she and Lisa Matthews knew little of the black hole? Oh my gosh; (does) the community believe this? Their silence was deafening re Gary Murphy since 2017. So $565M (debt) …. and $115M last year alone. More than 200 will be sacked at the Council.

FORUM Letters to the editor should be sent to: PO Box 1056 Gosford 2250 or

editorial@centralcoastnews.net

See Page 2 for contribution conditions

Email, Dec 9 Maureen Kerin, Kincumber

• Motor Vehicle Accidents • Workers Compensation • Personal Injury and work related claims • Total Permanent Disability Claims • Life Insurance - Death Benefit • Public Liability claims

We have a dedicated team of lawyers with over 50 yrs combined experience 25 Alison Road WYONG 4353 1248

98 Mann Street GOSFORD 4322 6666

NO WIN... NO FEE* *Conditions apply

YOUR INSURANCE SPECIALISTS

Smart phone app necessary for tracing I have to disagree with Bruce Hyland about using the smart phone app for public occasions. It is necessary for tracing people in these days of COVID. To say smart phones and their apps exist for Telcos’ profits just isn’t true. I consider myself elderly now and I use my phone mainly for texts and phone calls most of

FORUM the time. If I have been out with my husband most cafes will accept the app if you add your partner as a dependant. We also ate out at Ocean in Blue Bay and there was a register on the way in for you to sign your name and phone number for possible tracing.

one can certainly afford to own one. As an aged pensioner with a disability I find it quite valuable at times to be able to call for a taxi.

FORUM

PAGE 15 11 DECEMBER 2020

Get a broom

I think you will also find that cafe and restaurant staff are perfectly willing to help you with the phones anyway. No, it is not injustice, it is for our wellbeing. I was pretty clueless at first but am now quite comfortable with the idea. Email, Dec 6 Paula Watson, Holgate

The leaf blower must be one of the worst created power tools. If music was played at the same decibel the police force would be running out of officers. I live around the Avoca lagoon and some [deleted] has been going with his leaf blower for more than an hour.

FORUM One would think it was just next door. This happens every day of the week any time during daylight hours. It’s not good enough. All the talk of noise pollution - and what is done about this

particular one? Zero. There’s something called a broom and they come in various sizes and actually can create quite healthy-looking muscles, not unlike the artificial looking muscles created from the gym. Just think about it. Email, Dec 9 Inger Terp, North Avoca

What happened to Towards 2020?

Smart phones a good idea, even for pensioners FORUM

Whilst I agree with Bruce Hyland’s (op)position on smart phones being required to eat out (“Smart phone app requirement outrageous”, issue 271), I would hazard a guess that if one can afford to eat out then with the plethora of cheap phones and plans

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

When I left some baggage inside a cab; the driver himself was perfectly happy to return it to me where he had dropped me off after I called the taxi company, for which I am eternally grateful. Email, Dec 5 Dave Horsfall, North Gosford

It must be 15 years ago, when Gosford City council hosted a “Towards 2020” meeting, seeking community support. They held public meetings, conducted surveys, workshops and even hired an expert on town planning from Portland,

FORUM USA to chair meetings. We were all so excited at the conclusion of the findings, that all the councillors had a celebratory weekend at a top resort in Nelson Bay.

Now we have arrived at our “2020 Goal” with a bang; what has happened? We need to know, so that all our great plans for the future become a reality. Email, Dec 9 Charles Lindstrom, Erina

Jane Smith

Independent ...working for our community

Administrator’s 30 Day Interim Report The Administrator released his 30 Day Interim Report on 2 December. It outlines preliminary findings in terms of Council’s current financial position. The financial situation is serious and it will take time for Council to be restored to a healthy financial position. There will be some difficult decisions ahead. All levels of government will need to work together to chart the course forward. There are also more questions to be asked and answered: • The report states that at the time of amalgamation, Council had less than $5m in unrestricted funds (in 2016). Did the first Administrator and CEO know this? Did other CEO’s since that time know the true state of the finances? • The Audit Risk & Improvement Committee (ARIC) was established in January 2017. The objective of ARIC is to “provide independent assurance and assistance to the Council on risk management, control, governance, internal audits, organisational performance and external accountability responsibilities.” Did ARIC know of the financial issues at any point since January 2017? • How much has the amalgamation cost Council? - The Report has downplayed the impact of the amalgamation-however, what has been the real cost so far-both money and staff resources? • What additional costs has the State government imposed on Council? ... emergency coastal works, Crown Lands processes, planning support (when Council is no longer the consent authority)? Importantly, how will the Administrator and CEO ensure transparency, accountability and consultation? - especially during the next month when there are no public meetings scheduled?

Council’s financial crisis has changed my view about the airport Firstly, it’s not an airport - it’s an Aircraft Landing Area (ALA) - confirmed by the Review of the Warnervale Airport Restrictions (WAR) Act released in April 2020. In November, 2017 the newly elected Council received a briefing about grand visions for the airport. There were more consultants in the room than Councillors. The Council budget for that year included $6 million toward those plans - and that was just the beginning. Staff indicated there would need to be further plans and studies all to be paid for by Council. Council decided not to proceed with the grand plans. There needed to be some expenditure but Council saved over $4 million that year. The WAR Act Review highlighted that Councillors made the right decision (page 11): “...the inherent limitations of the site should be highlighted for all stakeholders, noting that many stakeholders are still of the impression that expansion of the airport is feasible when it is in actuality highly constrained by both its physical characteristics and legislative requirements. ……. The Review Team considers that the root cause of much community uncertainty is historic ideas put forward by Council and individual Councillors.” It’s time to consider other options I have not been opposed to the Central Coast Aero Club (CCAC) continuing their current activities at the Warnervale ALA. I have a high regard for members of the CCAC Board and General Manager ….(although I note some of their

associates argue their position through abuse, threats, trolling, intimidation and bullying of Councillors). It is time to consider other options for this land. To sterilise the site for the Aero Club is a luxury we can no longer afford. In fact, it continues to cost Council money. On 30 November, a report to Council noted that $87,368 had been spent on the Obstacle Limitation Surface to allow the Aero Club to continue operating at this site - and there is still more Council expenditure to come. Other groups use the site - however, in my dealings with them, the ALA is a “nice to have” - not a “must have”. In 2010, media articles said Wyong Council supported the sale of the 33 Ha aerodrome for more than $20 million as industrial land. The land is cleared with some servicing and infrastructure already in place. At that time, the Aero Club was agreeing to re-locate to Belmont. In September 2019, the CCAC announced they had CASA approval for a secondary base at Maitland and would operate both locations indefinitely. The Administrator has stressed that Council’s finances are dire and difficult decisions need to be made. That should now include the option of not having an ALA at Warnervale. There are people that I respect and admire that will be disappointed by my position - and I am sorry for that—but we can no longer afford to quarantine this land at the expense of our Council and ratepayers.

Disclaimer - Views expressed in these articles are my own and do not represent the views of Council

Central Coast New Independents

For more information or to subscribe to my eNews www.ccnewindependents.com

PAGE 16 11 DECEMBER 2020

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

KEEP YOURSELF AND OUR COMMUNITY SAFE FROM COVID-19

Stay safe by following the “four lines of defence” against COVID-19

Maintain a distance of 1.5 metres from others

Wash your hands well and often

Stay home if you’re sick and get tested as soon as you have any symptoms

Wear a face mask in situations where social distancing cannot be followed

You must book before you go for a COVID-19 test For the Gosford clinic, call 4320 5055 between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 4pm on weekends For the Erina clinic, call 0435 813 865 between 10.30am and 5.30pm everyday For the Wyong clinic, call 4394 9200 between 9am and 5pm everyday

Adam CROUCH MP Member for Terrigal 02 4365 1906 adamcrouchmp

terrigal@parliament.nsw.gov.au adamcrouchmp

adamcrouchmp.com.au

Authorised by Adam Crouch MP, Shop 3 Fountain Plaza, 148-158 The Entrance Road, Erina NSW 2250, produced using parliamentary entitlements.

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

OUT&ABOUT PAGE 17 11 DECEMBER 2020

Coast Opera Afloat

Jenny Liu will be one of the featured artists during Opera Afloat

The Central Coast’s very own opera company, Coast Opera Australia, is launching a new postpandemic program, with Opera Afloat planned for February 2021. The season will kick off with a performance at Saddles at Mount White on February 28, where the artists will sing and float on top of the water. International singer and Coast Opera Australia founder and artistic director, Angela Brewer, said guests would sit along the water’s edge and watch as Australia’s finest operatic singers floated by. “Dip your toes in the water by the dam as you sink back into your deck chair,” Brewer said. “Under the shade of your umbrella and with champagne, beer, or wine in hand, listen to our artists singing to you as they float past on the water.” The program will highlight

CCN

Australia’s finest operatic artists, including our homegrown emerging artists, singing classical arias supported by the Coast Opera Australia Orchestra. Brewer said deck chairs, umbrellas, and food will be available on the day with plenty of ticket packages that would suit each guest. COVID restrictions came as a blow to live music and artistic performances but Brewer said Coast Opera Australia had used the time to drive the company forward. “We have been impacted this year; however, we used that time to look within and redesign events that are COVID-19 friendly and secured DGR (deductible gift recipient) status,” Brewer said. Mid 2020 saw Coast Opera Australia broadcast livestreamed performances from the Central Coast Stadium to

thousands of people nationally and internationally. “We literally bounced from audiences of approximately 400 to thousands with our Salute To The Anzacs and Disney To Divas,” Brewer said. “I am hugely proud of Salute To The Anzacs, I think that’s probably one of Coast Opera Australia’s most rewarding events we have given to the community. “I’ll certainly be following that path so we can continue to do that with all the major milestones on the Coast.” Brewer said music, film, dance, and the arts were things that allowed people to escape into a creative space and helped people forget all the heaviness of the past year. “We are going to bring events you would usually see overseas or in Sydney, but the Central Coast deserves, and is expecting, the same standard

of creation,” Brewer said. “There is a need now, more than ever, to connect and bring the humanities into the forefront.” Coast Opera Australia Chair, Virginia Henderson, said the company and the arts had helped to make the community unite and to hum with vitality, excitement, and innovation. “Coast Opera Australia is an initiative which is different in many ways from existing organisations up here, musically and otherwise,” Henderson said. “This is something which is truly national and international, where we can lead the way for the future.” Henderson said that twice as many people visited galleries and artistic performances than attended sporting events which she believed was a truly telling statistic. “The experience of sitting in

a theatre or at a concert and having that transformative moment, there is nothing that equals that,” Henderson said. Coast Opera Australia was founded after Brewer realised that many artists hadn’t emerged within their artistic avenues as there were no professional platforms in the local area. “We are here to inspire those that are training and give them a platform where they can continue to train past university levels,” Brewer said. “It’s really nice to know you can come home to work at a professional level, with family, friends, and community support.” Brewer said she wanted to provide a guiding light to artists on the Central Coast who needed more opportunities and a professional place to work. “Opera not only involves singing, but it also involves

dance, acting, costumes, set designers, literature, all facets of the arts; they all come into this one medium,” she said. “So, it can engage and employ thousands of people in the arts industry and keep them on the Coast.” Guests can choose between three ticket packages, ranging from tickets for just the performance, to a package including a three-course meal, wine and a meet and greet. Brewer said they would seat 400 people around the dam for the performance and anticipated the three-course dinner package to sell quickly as it only seated 50-100 people. Opera Afloat will be held on February 28, 2021, with more information on bookings available at www. coastoperaaustralia.com

YOUR ADVERTISEMENT HERE

Hayley McMahon

CALL 02 4325 7369 OR SEE WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

PAGE 18 11 DECEMBER 2020 OUT&ABOUT

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

Avoca Beach artist in Sydney exhibition Jane Gillings of Avoca Beach is one of over 30 female artists to be celebrated for their talent and work, as part of the HERE I AM: Art by Great Women exhibit at the aMBUSH Gallery in Sydney.

The exhibit, running until February 28, is inspired by the Know My Name movement, which is in cultural partnership with the National Gallery of Australia. Gillings’ portrait, Arcadia, is modelled off a photo taken in 1975 of herself as a child and her grandmother, Es, just before they boarded the cruise ship, The Arcadia, which was heading to Cairns. She said the self-portrait was

Arcadia by Jane Gillings

a very emotional piece to make. “Being the youngest in the family with five older brothers, I was often too little to be included in things, which, to this day leaves me with a serious case of feeling left out,” Gillings said. “Thankfully, my paternal grandmother, Es, always singled me out for special treatment. “We were chalk and cheese, but we were really close as well. “I remember absolutely loving the outfit I was wearing but feeling a little bit shy about having my photograph taken.” The full-time artist said the life-size 2D artwork includes

certain 3D elements. “It also incorporates some objects from both of us because usually, I do sculptures,” Gillings said. “For example, the socks I was wearing when boarding the cruise, I still actually have, because I loved them so much, so I incorporated them into the picture. “I also used my grandma’s pearls. “The other thing I really love about this picture is that it depicts both our personalities in the way that we are both standing in pretty much in the exact same pose. “But she is really standing as she has been trained to stand, whereas I am standing that

way and pinching my pinafore because I am embarrassed about getting my photo taken - so there is a really different reason for both poses.” The HERE I AM: Art by Great Women festival is free and on display 24 hours a day. “The whole point of having these exhibitions is to address the inequity in art exhibitions,” Gillings said. “There is a really large disconnect between the number of women who go to art school and graduate as artists, compared to how many of them are shown in galleries, either commercial or not commercial.” Jacinta Counihan

Celebration of Musica Viva Central Coast Conservatorium held a special concert to celebrate Musica Viva’s 75th anniversary on November 29. The concert, Springing back to life, with a nod to the past, was attended by 35 guests, including Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts, Don Harwin, and Dean of the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, Anna Reid. The concert raised funds for the Central Coast

Conservatorium Indigenous scholarship program and paid tribute to the historic contribution to Australia’s cultural development of Musica Viva founder, Richard Goldner. Musica Viva was established in 1945 and has grown from one ensemble performing in post-war times in Sydney to the largest chamber music organisation in the world. Australian violinist, patron of the Central Coast Conservatorium, and widow of Richard Goldner, Charmian Gadd, recalled that first concert on December 8, 1945.

“It was a time of shortages, and blackouts and as luck would have it there was a blackout that day,” Gadd said. The program included performances of Mozart’s Divertimento for String Trio, Beethoven’s first movement of Archduke for Piano Trio, and pieces for guitar including Paganini Cantabile played by Gregory Pikler and Charmian Gadd, and a performance of Brahms’ Piano Quintet. Source Media release, Dec 2 Central Coast Conservatorium

Musica Viva’s 75th anniversary performance

BOOK REVIEW

CCN

The Survivors Author: Jane Harper Publisher: Macmillan

We’ve all made mistakes and have regrets. Wish we could undo something from our past. But imagine making a mistake that lead to the death of a loved one – having to deal with the guilt. Kieran Elliot made such a mistake when he was younger. It was during a fatal storm that resulted in the death of two young men at sea – his older brother, Finn, and a young father whose still-furious son (Liam) now works at The Surf and Turf. On the same night a young woman, Gabby Birch, went missing, and the mystery of her disappearance has never been solved. Saddled with grief, Kieren left his

home in Evelyn Bay, Tasmania and moved to Sydney. Years later, while at a bar, Kieren ran into Mia. Mia also grew up in Evelyn Bay and remembered Kieran. Younger Kieran wouldn’t have given Mia the time of day, but older Kieran is different. Fast forward and Kieran and Mia now have a baby, Audrey. They are visiting Evelyn Bay to help Kieran’s mum, Verity, pack up the house. Kieran’s dad, Brian is suffering dementia and will be moving to a nursing home. Verity will rent a one-bedroom place nearby. The air is heavy in the Elliot household. As Kieran, Mia and Audrey move about town they run into old friends and acquaintances. But not everyone is happy to see Kieran. Liam, at the Surf and Turf would be happy to never see Kieran’s face again.

Locals used to rely on fishing and forestry, now they rely on dophinwatching and dives to the wreckage of the SS Mary Minerva. A shipwreck that happened over a century ago where fifty-four people died. There is even a memorial called Survivors, “the three life-size iron figures” which “were permanently

visible from the cliffs and the sea, tall enough that even in the highest tides and the worse weather, they never fully disappeared underwater.” The plot thickens one day after Kieran’s return when another young woman, Bronte, who also works at The Surf and Turf, is found dead on the beach at the end of her shift. As police investigate, the focus is always on Kieran who comes to realise he has been so consumed by his own guilt, that he has overlooked the pieces of a much bigger puzzle. Jane Harper’s new crime mystery has met with loads of praise. Some say the pace of the book was slow, while others have said it was thrilling - I found it to be neither of those, but I still quite enjoyed getting to know the characters and the events that caused so much grief to a small town. You could really feel how weighed down Kieran was dealing with his guilt. What was a disappointment was the ending.

I found it convoluted and had difficulty following the course of events. Maybe it is my lack of knowledge about caves! I also found Audrey was more of an accessory and wondered who would leave their baby on the beach while they went swimming. Nevertheless, the positives definitely outweighed the negatives and I would recommend this book. Kim Reardon The Reluctant Book Critic

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

OUT&ABOUT PAGE 19 11 DECEMBER 2020

Mariners host fun day and Christmas Carols Central Coast Mariners will host Carols on the Coast at Central Coast Stadium on December 20, with a day full of music, soccer, carols, and Christmas cheer. Gates will open at 2 pm for the Mariners’ Family Day and Corporate Launch, with a game between the Mariners and a Young Socceroos Talent Identification Squad to start at 3 pm. The carols, from 5.30-7.30 pm will be headlined by former Hi-5 member Nathan Foley and the Girls from Little Quirks.

Central Coast Mariners CEO, Shaun Mielekamp, said it was an important opportunity for the Club to make a mark in the community. “Coming up to Christmas time the carols are a big event for families, so for us to be able to give them life again and create this for the community is a special opportunity for us,” Mielekamp said. “We’re the Community Club, and we know that we have a role to play here on the Coast, and this forms part of our commitment to the region. “Our mantra this season is to

not back down, and this is an example of the determination we need to show as a club and a community to move forward into the new year and a positive future. “When it became clear that so many Christmas and New Year’s Eve events were having to be cancelled, we knew we could give back and make sure that families and kids didn’t miss out. “These sorts of special occasions can create lifelong memories, and during a tough year where there is plenty of doom and gloom locally and

abroad, we have to focus on what we can do as a collective. “It’s also exciting being able to welcome some of Australia’s brightest young football talents on the day to take on our boys and give the fans a chance to see their Mariners in action ahead of the season starting.” Central Coast Mariners Members get free entry to the match and carols, with public tickets on sale at $10 for adults and $5 for children. Source Media Release Dec 4 Central Coast Mariners

Former Hi-5 member Nathan Foley

A big month for MMAD It has been a big month for the charity Musicians Making a Difference (MMAD), with the completion of a podcast, a streetwear launch, and a Christmas donation appeal.

D Minor and Kara Sheehan wearing MMAD StreetWear

In celebration of MMAD Day on December 4, the final two episodes for the podcast series, Music Saved Me, were released. The month-long series featured musicians including Conrad Sewell, Eves Karydas, Isaiah Firebrace, Mike Waters,

Paul Dempsey, Illy and GRAACE, all of whom shared their personal accounts on how music supported them through their most difficult times. MMAD Co-founder, Dominic Brook, said the podcast was a hit straight after it was released. “The podcast is incredible in terms of great stories around how music has help people through hard times and saved them,” Brook said. “We went to number one when we launched, which was great and people have really connected with the stories.

“It has been a really inspirational series.” MMAD has also launched a new limited-edition StreetWear line with proceeds going to the young people involved in their programs. It has also been accepting Christmas donations for the organisation’s young people who will not have a family to be with at Christmas. Brook said MMAD day amplifies how we use music to change lives and make a better world.

“Our vision is that every young person has someone who believes in them, and we do that through music,” he said. “Because of COVID, our 2020 MMAD day will be more of an online campaign. “So, we are encouraging people to reach out through music, share a song that inspires them, maybe even a song that helped them get through 2020, because their story may help someone out.” Jacinta Counihan

Nikki set for virtual dance party Central Coast local, Nikki Webster, is set to add happiness to the living rooms of kids all over Australia by hosting her live streaming event, Australia’s Biggest Trolls Dance Party, at 4 pm on December 11. The virtual dance party will involve Webster teaching the steps to the dance she choreographed for the official song of the Trolls World Tour film, The Other Side by Justin Timberlake and SZA.

“On the day of the Dance Party, I will be breaking down the steps for Trolls-loving families alongside my very excited children, Skylah and Malakai, and our very special guest, Queen Poppy,” Webster said. “After a challenging year, with so much of it spent indoors, it’s never been more important for kids (and adults) to get their bodies moving. “As we can’t all get together in real life for a big party, we thought we’d bring the party to everyone instead.

“The Dance Party will run for 15 minutes and will be full of dancing, colour and fun. “I’m really looking forward to seeing everyone’s dance moves. “This is in celebration of the home entertainment release of Trolls World Tour and its exclusive Dance Party Edition, which is available on digital now and on DVD on December 9. “Trolls World Tour Dance Party Edition lets you dance along, sing along, and even

Did you know that Thursday the 10th of December is World Human Rights Day? But for too long, our Government has chosen to deny refugees the right to seek safety by keeping people locked up indefenitily in offshore processing and onshore detention.

Sponsored by Ms Pamela Lemoine

control your own on-screen glitter explosions.” Twenty years after performing at the opening ceremony of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, Webster now owns three dance studios, two in Sydney and one on the Central Coast. Jacinta Counihan

Nikki Webster with her children, Malakai and Skylah

Mangrove DISTRICT

MARKETS

NOW AT CORNER GEORGE DOWNES DRIVE and BLOODTREE ROAD

home style preserves & Food

8.30am to 3pm Every SATURDAY ALL WEATHER

NEW STALLS WELCOME PHONE MARGARET 4374 1255

PAGE 20 11 DECEMBER 2020

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

Sunday 13 December

Saturday 12 December

Friday 11 December

ABC (C20/21)

PRIME (C61/60)

NINE (C81/80)

TEN (C13)

SBS (C30)

5:30 Today [s] 6:00 Headline News [s] 5:00 CGTN English News News Breakfast [s] 6:00 Sunrise [s] 5:15 NHK World English News 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) [s] 9:00 Today Extra (PG) [s] 8:30 Studio 10 (PG) [s] ABC News Mornings [s] 12:00 Dr Phil (PG) [s] 5:30 Worldwatch Outback Ringer (PG) [s] 11:30 Seven Morning News [s] 11:30 NINE’s Morning News [s] 12:00 Ellen (PG) [s] 1:00 The Living Room (PG) [s] 1:00 PBS Newshour Scottish Vets Down Under 12:00 Movie: “My Christmas Love” (PG) (’16) Stars: Meredith 1:00 Desperate Housewives (PG) 2:00 Entertainment Tonight [s] 2:00 Michael Mosley: Great (PG) [s] Intelligence Test (M) 11:00 Gardening Australia [s] Hagner, Bobby Campo 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) [s] 2:30 Three Veg And Meat [s] 3:00 Judge Judy (PG) [s] 3:05 Great British Railway 12:00 ABC News At Noon [s] 2:00 The Secret Daughter: Just 4:00 NINE’s Afternoon News [s] 5:00 Millionaire Hot Seat [s] 3:30 Freshly Picked With Simon Journeys (PG) 1:00 Adam Hills: The Last Leg (M) Another Love Song (PG) [s] Toohey [s] 3:35 Who Do You Think You Are?: 6:00 NINE News [s] 2:00 Countdown To Disaster [s] 3:00 The Chase UK [s] 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) [s] 4:00 Farm To Fork [s] 4:00 Seven News At 4 [s] 3:00 ABC News Afternoons [s] Natalie Imbruglia (PG) 4:30 The Bold And The Beautiful 7:30 Country House Hunters 4:00 The Heights (PG) [s] 5:00 The Chase Australia [s] 4:35 Alex Polizzi’s Secret Italy (PG) Australia: Warrnambool [s] (PG) [s] 4:30 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery 6:00 Seven News [s] (In English/ Italian) 7:00 Cricket: Big Bash League: 8:30 Movie: “Bad Moms” (M l,d) (’16) 5:00 10 News First [s] 5:00 Escape From The City [s] 5:30 Letters And Numbers – When three overworked and 6:00 WIN News [s] 6:00 The Drum [s] Melbourne Stars v Brisbane 6:00 Mastermind Australia under-appreciated moms are 6:30 The Project (PG) [s] Heat *Live* From Manuka Oval 7:00 ABC News [s] 7:30 Scanning The Nile: Looking [s] – Last season’s runners-up pushed beyond their limits, they 7:30 The Living Room (PG) [s] 7:30 Gardening Australia [s] – For The Pharaohs Of Luxor Guest presenter Hannah the Stars face a tough start to ditch their conventional respon- 8:30 Program To Be Advised (PG) (In English/ French) 9:30 Program To Be Advised sibilities for a jolt of long introduces her gorgeous goats, the season against an explosive 8:30 The Wonderful World Of overdue freedom, fun, and 10:30 Hughesy, We Have A Problem Millie Ross learns the art of Brisbane Heat line-up that’s out Chocolate (PG) comedic self-indulgence. Stars: (M l,s) [s] fermentation, Tino Carnevale for redemption after a 9:20 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Mila Kunis, Kathryn Hahn 11:30 WIN’s All Australian News [s] disappointing 2019-20 visits a grand country garden. Countdown (M) campaign. 10:30 Movie: “Friends With Benefits” 12:30 The Project (PG) [s] 8:30 Vera: Prodigal Son (PG) [s] 10:15 SBS World News Late (MA15+) (’11) Stars: Mila Kunis, 1:30 The Late Show With Stephen 10:45 Country Music: I Can’t Stop 10:05 Mum: September (M l) [s] 11:00 Movie: “Soldier” (M v,l) (’98) Justin Timberlake Colbert (PG) [s] Stars: Kurt Russell, Jason Scott 10:35 ABC Late News [s] Loving You (1953 - 1963) (PG) 2:30 Home Shopping Lee, Connie Nielsen 12:35 Tipping Point (PG) [s] 10:50 Gruen (M) [s] 11:50 Nox (M d,l,s,v) 1:30 Home Shopping 11:25 rage (MA15+) [s] 1:00 Home Shopping (In French/ Tamil) 5:00 CGTN English News 6:00 Reel Action [s] 6:00 Easy Eats [s] 6:00 Home Shopping 6:00 rage (PG) [s] 5:15 NHK World English News 6:30 Entertainment Tonight [s] 7:00 Weekend Today [s] 7:00 Weekend Sunrise [s] 7:00 Weekend Breakfast [s] 5:30 Worldwatch 7:00 Places We Go (PG) [s] 10:00 The Morning Show - Weekend 10:00 Today Extra - Saturday [s] 10:00 rage (PG) [s] 1:00 PBS Newshour 12:00 Award Winning Tasmania [s] 7:30 Which Car (PG) [s] (PG) [s] 11:00 rage Guest Programmer (PG) 8:00 What’s Up Down Under (PG) 2:00 Figure Skating: ISU Figure 12:30 Rebound [s] 12:00 Program To Be Advised 12:00 ABC News At Noon [s] Skating Grand Prix China 8:30 All 4 Adventure [s] 1:00 The Healthy Cooks [s] 1:00 Salvation Army Christmas 12:30 Call The Midwife (M) [s] 4:00 Destination Flavour China 9:30 Studio 10 Saturday (PG) [s] 1:30 Small Gift, Big Heart [s] Special [s] 2:00 The Sound [s] Bitesize 2:00 World’s Greatest Journeys: 12:00 The Living Room [s] 1:30 Jabba’s School Holiday 3:00 Dream Gardens [s] 4:10 Gourmet Farmer 1:00 Left Off The Map [s] Drives (PG) [s] Special [s] 3:30 Ask The Doctor: Pain (PG) [s] 4:40 Tony Robinson’s Hidden 1:30 Everyday Gourmet [s] 3:00 CMA Country Christmas 4:00 Searching For Superhuman: 2:00 Surf Patrol [s] Britain By Drone 2:00 Healthy Homes Australia [s] (MA15+) [s] 2:30 Movie: “Christmas With The Immortality (PG) [s] 5:35 Nazi Megastructures (PG) 2:30 Program To Be Advised 4:00 The Perfect Serve [s] Andersons” (G) (’16) Stars: 5:00 Australian Story (PG) [s] 6:30 SBS World News 3:30 Roads Less Travelled [s] Christy Carlson, George Stults 4:30 The Garden Gurus [s] 5:30 Midsomer Murders: 7:35 Secrets Of Our Cities: 4:00 Taste Of Australia With 5:00 NINE News: First At Five [s] 4:30 Better Homes And Gardens Wild Harvest (PG) [s] Fitzroy (PG) Hayden Quinn [s] 5:30 RBT (PG) [s] Summer: Countdown To 7:00 ABC News [s] 8:30 Portillo’s Greatest Railway 4:30 Fishing Australia [s] 6:00 NINE News Saturday [s] Christmas [s] 7:30 Midsomer Murders: The Journeys: Law And Order (PG) 5:00 10 News First [s] 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) [s] Ghost Of Causton Abbey (M v) 5:00 Seven News At 5 [s] 9:25 Movie: “Shutter Island” 6:00 Family Feud (PG) [s] [s] – Causton is buzzing at the 5:30 Border Security - Australia’s 7:30 Christmas With Delta [s] (MA15+) (’10) Stars: Leonardo 8:30 Movie: “Love Actually” (M n,l,s) 7:00 Bondi Rescue (PG) [s] Front Line (PG) [s] opening of a new brewery on DiCaprio, Mark Ruffalo, Ben 7:30 Ambulance UK (M) [s] (’03) Stars: Keira Knightley, 6:00 Seven News [s] the site of a famously cursed 9:50 999: What’s Your Kingsley Hugh Grant, Liam Neeson 7:00 Cricket: Big Bash League: Abbey. Emergency?: Knife Crime (M) 12:00 The New Pope (M l) Melbourne Renegades v Perth 11:15 Movie: “Four Weddings And A 9:00 Endeavour: Muse (M v) [s] 11:00 Movie: “In Like Flynn” (MA15+) (In English/ Italian) Funeral” (M l,s) (’94) Stars: Scorchers *Live* From 10:35 Sherlock: The Six Thatchers (‘18) Stars: Thomas Cocquerel 1:15 Great Irish Railway Journeys: Hugh Grant, Andie MacDowell Blundstone Arena [s] (M v) [s] Ballymoney To Londonderry 1:30 Award Winning Tasmania [s] 1:00 Home Shopping 11:00 Movie: “Ride Along” (M v,l) 12:05 rage Guest Programmer 5:00 Religious Programs (PG) 2:00 Home Shopping (’14) Stars: Bruce McGill (MA15+) [s] 5:00 CGTN English News 6:00 Religious Programs [s] 6:00 Easy Eats [s] 6:00 Home Shopping 6:00 rage (PG) [s] 5:15 NHK World English News 7:30 Fishing Australia [s] 7:00 Weekend Today [s] 7:00 Weekend Sunrise [s] 7:00 Weekend Breakfast [s] 10:00 The Morning Show - Weekend 10:00 Surfing Australia TV (PG) [s] 8:00 Australia By Design: Interiors 5:30 Worldwatch – Deutsche Welle 9:00 Insiders [s] English News 6:00 France 24 8:30 The Living Room [s] 10:30 Peaking [s] 12:00 House Of Wellness [s] 10:00 Offsiders [s] English News 6:30 Al Jazeera 9:30 Studio 10 Sunday (PG) [s] 11:05 Visions Of Greatness: The 1:00 Surf Patrol [s] 10:30 The World This Week [s] English News 7:30 Italian News 12:00 Destination Dessert [s] Outsiders (PG) [s] 1:30 RSPCA Animal Rescue [s] 11:00 Compass [s] 8:10 Filipino News 8:40 French 12:30 Roads Less Travelled [s] 12:10 Movie: “Uptown Girls” (PG) 2:00 Cricket: Big Bash League: 11:30 Songs Of Praise: Nativity [s] News 9:30 Greek News 10:30 1:00 Jamie: Keep Cooking And (’03) Stars: Brittany Murphy Adelaide Strikers v Hobart 12:00 ABC News At Noon [s] Worldwatch Continues Carry On [s] 2:00 Movie: “Blizzard” (G) (’03) Hurricanes *Live* From 12:30 Landline Summer [s] 1:00 Speedweek 1:30 Freshly Picked With Simon Stars: LeVar Burton Blundstone Arena, Hobart [s] 1:00 Back Roads [s] Toohey [s] 3:00 Figure Skating: ISU Figure 4:00 Tipping Point [s] 5:30 Sydney Weekender (PG) [s] 1:30 Gardening Australia [s] 2:00 Pat Callinan’s 4X4 Skating Rostelecom Cup 5:00 NINE News: First At Five [s] 6:00 Seven News [s] 2:30 The Mix [s] Adventures [s] 5:05 Travel Man: Lisbon 5:30 Territory Cops (PG) [s] 3:00 Basketball: WNBL: Canberra 7:00 Cricket: Big Bash League: 3:00 Emmylou’s Christmas Table 5:35 Nazi Megastructures (PG) 6:00 NINE News Sunday [s] Sydney Sixers v Melbourne Capitals v Southside Flyers 4:00 All 4 Adventure [s] 6:30 SBS World News 7:00 60 Minutes (PG) [s] Renegades *Live* From *Live* From Townsville Stadium 5:00 10 News First [s] 7:30 Blood Of The Clans (PG) 8:00 RBT: Meat Tray (PG) [s] Blundstone Arena, Hobart [s] 5:00 War On Waste: The Battle 8:35 Inside The Ritz Hotel 8:30 Movie: “Sully: Miracle On The 6:00 WIN News [s] 11:00 Movie: “The Town” (MA15+) Continues [s] Hudson” (M l) (’16) Stars: Tom 6:30 The Sunday Project (PG) [s] 10:20 Marry Me, Marry My Family (’10) – As he plans his next job, 6:00 The Sound (PG) [s] 7:30 The Graham Norton Show (M) (PG) (In English/ Hindi/ Maori/ Hanks, Aaron Eckhart a longtime thief tries to balance 7:00 ABC News Sunday [s] 8:30 FBI: Most Wanted: Deconflict Urdu) his feelings for a bank manager 10:30 NINE News Late [s] 7:40 Climate Change: The Facts [s] (M) [s] 11:20 Civilisations: Colour And Light/ connected to one of his earlier 11:00 Killer On The Line: 8:40 Movie: “Danny And The 9:30 Blood And Treasure: The The Cult Of Progress/ The Vital Robert Trigg (M v) [s] heists, as well as the FBI agent Human Zoo” (M) (’15) Stars: Shadow Of Project Athena/ The Spark (PG) 11:50 Grand Hotel: looking to bring him and his Peter Bankole Wages Of Vengeance (M) [s] 2:35 Inside Hitler’s Killing Machine A Perfect Storm (M v,s) [s] crew down. Stars: Ben Affleck, 10:10 Total Control (MA15+) [s] 11:20 The Sunday Project (PG) [s] (M) (In English/ French) 12:40 The Garden Gurus [s] Rebecca Hall, Jon Hamm 11:00 Killing Eve (MA15+) [s] 12:30 Home Shopping 3:35 Life After The Oasis (M l,v) 1:10 The Healthy Cooks [s] 1:30 Home Shopping 11:45 No Offence (MA15+) [s] 6:00 9:00 10:00 10:30

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

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

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

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

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

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

Builders Licence Number 204179C

Solid Bathrooms

LICENSED TRADESMAN AND QUALITY WORK ALL LOCATED ON THE CENTRAL COAST

Advert

Scotty from Solid Bathrooms is a licensed builder with over 13 years experience on the Central Coast. Hiring a builder means that all bathroom work and workmanship is managed by one project manager and is fully insured. In addition, any reconfigurations are easily managed, for example, if a wall needs to be pulled down or a bath removed to have a larger walk in shower, you know the builder can manage this effectively

WHAT OUR CLIENTS ARE SAYING “Thank you, Scott, for your excellent advice and well-priced solution for our new bathroom. “ “Each of your tradespeople who worked on our new bathroom were prompt, polite, tidy and talented.” “I recommend Solid Bathrooms without any hesitation.”

WWW.SOLIDBATHROOMS.COM - PHONE 0401 601 082 FOR A FREE QUOTATION

Thursday 17 December

Wednesday 16 December

Tuesday 15 December

Monday 14 December

ABC (C20/21)

6:00 9:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 1:00 1:35 2:00 3:00 4:00 4:30 5:00 6:00 7:00 7:30 8:00 8:30 9:30 10:20 10:35 11:30 12:20 2:20 6:00 9:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 1:00 2:00 3:00 4:00 4:30 5:00 6:00 7:00 7:30 8:00 8:30 9:30 10:30 11:05 11:20 12:05 12:55 3:10

News Breakfast [s] ABC News Mornings [s] Grand Designs [s] Christmas At St Paul’s [s] ABC News At Noon [s] Gruen (PG) [s] Squinters (M l,d,s) [s] Rake (M l,s,v) [s] ABC News Afternoons [s] The Heights (PG) [s] Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery Escape From The City (PG) The Drum [s] ABC News [s] 7.30 [s] Stan Grant’s One Plus One: Alex McKinnon [s] Program To Be Advised Griff’s Great Australian Rail Trip [s] ABC Late News [s] Harrow: Malum In Se (M v) [s] No Offence (M l,s,v) [s] rage (MA15+) [s] Griff’s Great Australian Rail Trip [s] News Breakfast [s] ABC News Mornings [s] Grand Designs [s] Gardening Australia [s] ABC News At Noon [s] Gatwick: The Last Chance Hotel (M l,d) [s] Rake (M l,s,v) [s] ABC News Afternoons [s] The Heights (PG) [s] Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery Escape From The City (PG) The Drum [s] ABC News [s] 7.30 [s] Outback Ringer (PG) [s] London Zoo: An Extraordinary Year [s] Maggie Beer In Japan [s] Insert Name Here: Xmas (M) ABC Late News [s] Lucy Worsley’s Christmas Carol Odyssey [s] No Offence (MA15+) [s] rage (MA15+) [s] No Offence (M l,s,v) [s]

6:00 News Breakfast [s] 9:00 ABC News Mornings [s] 10:00 London Zoo: An Extraordinary Year [s] 11:00 Gardening Australia [s] 12:00 ABC News At Noon [s] 1:00 Sue Perkins And The Chimp Sanctuary (M) [s] 2:00 Rake (M d,s,v) [s] 3:00 ABC News Afternoons [s] 4:00 The Heights (PG) [s] 4:30 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery (PG) [s] 5:00 Escape From The City [s] 6:00 The Drum [s] 7:00 ABC News [s] 7:30 7.30 [s] 8:00 Hard Quiz (PG) [s] 8:30 Gruen (M) [s] 9:05 Reputation Rehab: One Bad Joke (PG) [s] 9:35 Adam Hills: The Last Leg (M) 10:20 QI: Quads And Quins (PG) [s] 10:50 ABC Late News [s] 11:10 The Pool: Our Battleground (PG) [s] 6:00 9:00 10:00 10:30 11:00 12:00 1:00 1:30 2:00 3:00 4:00 4:30 5:00 6:00 7:00 7:30 8:00 8:30 9:30 10:30 11:05 11:20

PRIME (C61/60)

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

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

11:00

12:00 1:00 6:00 9:00 11:30 12:00 2:00 3:00 4:00 5:00 6:00 7:00 11:00 12:00

1:00

6:00 News Breakfast [s] 9:00 ABC News Mornings [s] Stan Grant’s One Plus One [s] 11:30 12:00 Landline Summer [s] Gardening Australia [s] ABC News At Noon [s] Hard Quiz (PG) [s] 2:00 Reputation Rehab [s] Rake (M l,s,v) [s] 3:00 ABC News Afternoons [s] The Heights (PG) [s] Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery 5:00 Escape From The City (PG) The Drum [s] 5:40 ABC News [s] 7.30 [s] 6:00 Scottish Vets Down Under 7:00 (PG) [s] Rick Stein’s Secret France 7:40 (PG) [s] Death In Paradise (M) [s] 8:00 Anh’s Brush With Fame: Saroo Brierley (PG) [s] 10:30 ABC Late News [s] Louis Theroux: Louis And The 11:30 12:30 Nazis (M l) [s]

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

Sunrise [s] The Morning Show (PG) [s] Seven Morning News [s] Movie: “My Santa” (G) (’13) Stars: Samaire Armstrong The Secret Daughter: Hearts On Fire (PG) [s] The Chase UK [s] Seven News At 4 [s] The Chase Australia [s] Seven News [s] Cricket: Big Bash League: Hobart Hurricanes v Adelaide Strikers *Live* From University Of Tasmania Stadium, Launceston [s] Chicago Fire: Off The Grid (M) [s] – A series of teen opioid overdoses sees Severide partner with Sean Roman, but he begins to suspect there’s more to the story than his old friend is telling him. Grey’s Anatomy: Bad Reputation (M v) [s] Home Shopping

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

5:30 Sunrise [s] 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) [s] 11:30 Seven Morning News [s] 12:00 Movie: “A Cinderella 1:00 Christmas” (PG) (’16) Stars: 1:10 Emma Rigby, Peter Porte, Sarah Stouffer, Leland B Martin Funniest Ever Crazy Cats (PG) [s] 3:00 The Chase UK [s] 4:00 Seven News At 4 [s] 5:00 The Chase Australia [s] 6:00 Seven News [s] 7:00 Cricket: Big Bash League: 7:30 Perth Scorchers v Melbourne Stars *Live* From University Of 8:30 Tasmania Stadium, Launceston 9:30 The Amazing Race: Run On Your Tippy Toes (PG) [s] Code Black: Exodus (M d) [s] – 10:30 11:00 A code black takes a turn for the worse when a city-wide 11:45 blackout leaves the hospital without power or back-up 12:35 generators. 1:30 Home Shopping Sunrise [s] The Morning Show (PG) [s] Seven Morning News [s] Movie: “A Golden Christmas” (AKA ‘Love For Christmas’) (PG) (’12) Stars: Shantel VanSanten, Rob Maye Test Cricket: Australia v India: Test 1: Pre Game [s] Test Cricket: Australia v India: Test 1: Day 1 *Live* From The Adelaide Oval [s] Test Cricket: Australia v India: The Lunch Break [s] Test Cricket: Australia v India: Test 1: Day 1 *Live* [s] Seven News [s] Test Cricket: Australia v India: Test 1: Day 1 *Live* [s] Test Cricket: Australia v India: Tea Break [s] Test Cricket: Australia v India: Test 1: Day 1 *Live* [s] The Amazing Race (PG) [s] Celebrity Obsessed (M v) [s] Home Shopping

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

TEN (C13)

NINE (C81/80)

5:30 Today [s] Sunrise [s] 9:00 Today Extra Summer [s] The Morning Show (PG) [s] 11:30 NINE’s Morning News [s] Seven Morning News [s] Movie: “Merry Kissmas” (PG) 12:00 Ellen (PG) [s] 1:00 Movie: “A Country Christmas (’15) Stars: Karissa Lee Story” (PG) (’13) Stars: Megyn Staples, Brant Daugherty Price, Ross McCall The Secret Daughter: 3:00 Tipping Point [s] Good Reasons (PG) [s] 4:00 NINE’s Afternoon News [s] The Chase UK (PG) [s] 5:00 Millionaire Hot Seat [s] Seven News At 4 [s] 6:00 NINE News [s] The Chase Australia [s] 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) [s] Seven News [s] 7:30 Gold Coast Cops (M v,l) [s] Cricket: Big Bash League: 8:00 Driving Test: Sharon (PG) [s] Sydney Thunder v Brisbane Heat *Live* From Manuka Oval, 8:30 Movie: “Indiana Jones And The Last Crusade” (PG) (’89) Stars: Canberra [s] Harrison Ford, Sean Connery, Station 19: Shock To The River Phoenix, Alison Doody, System (M) [s] – Miranda Bailey John Rhys-Davies visits Ben at work, meeting his 11:00 NINE News Late [s] new co-workers for the first time; most of the team responds 11:30 Generation X: Truth Be Told (M) [s] to a motor vehicle accident involving an electrical danger; 12:20 The Undateables: Souleyman/ Jason/ Charley (M l) [s] Andy and Maya are paired up to 1:20 9Honey - Every Day Kitchen go on their first stakeout. Funniest Ever Toddlers (PG) 1:30 Home Shopping

5:30 9:00 11:30 12:00 1:00

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

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

6:00 Today [s] 8:30 Today Extra [s] 12:00 NINE’s Morning News [s] 1:00 Ellen (PG) [s] 2:00 Explore [s] 2:30 Movie: “A Christmas In Tennessee” (PG) (’18) Stars: 3:00 Rachel Boston, Andrew W. 3:30 Walker, Patricia Richardson Tipping Point (PG) [s] 4:00 NINE’s Afternoon News [s] 4:30 Millionaire Hot Seat [s] NINE News [s] 5:00 A Current Affair (PG) [s] 6:00 20 To One: World’s Weirdest 6:30 News (M l,s,v) [s] 7:30 Kath & Kim: My Boyfriend/ Another Announcement (PG) [s] 8:30 9:30 Hamish & Andy’s Euro Gap Year (PG) [s] 10:30 NINE News Late [s] 11:30 The First 48: Run And Gun/ 12:30 Lonesome Highway (M v) [s] Tipping Point (PG) [s] 1:30 A Current Affair (PG) [s] 2:00 Home Shopping 4:30 Today [s] Today Extra Summer [s] NINE’s Morning News [s] Ellen (PG) [s] Honey - Every Day Kitchen [s] Movie: “Christmas Reservations” (PG) (’19) Stars: Melissa Joan Hart, Michael Gross, Christopher Quartuccio Tipping Point (PG) [s] NINE’s Afternoon News [s] Millionaire Hot Seat [s] NINE News [s] A Current Affair (PG) [s] Paramedics (M) [s] The Inbetween: Where The Shadows Fall (M v) [s] Chicago Med: I Can’t Imagine The Future (MA15+) [s] NINE News Late [s] Law & Order: Criminal Intent: Shandeh (M v) [s] World’s Wildest Weather: Tornado Terror (PG) [s] Tipping Point (PG) [s] Home Shopping

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

SBS (C30)

Headline News [s] 5:00 CGTN English News Studio 10 (PG) [s] 5:15 NHK World English News Dr Phil (PG) [s] 5:30 Worldwatch Jamie’s Ultimate Veg [s] 2:00 Epic Warrior Women: Entertainment Tonight [s] Amazons (M d,s,v) Inside The Children’s 3:00 Alex Polizzi Chef For Hire Hospital [s] 4:00 Great British Railway Judge Judy (PG) [s] Journeys: Winchfield To Freshly Picked With Simon Crowthorne (PG) Toohey [s] 4:30 The Supervet (PG) Farm To Fork [s] 5:30 Letters And Numbers The Bold And The Beautiful 6:00 Mastermind Australia (PG) [s] 6:30 SBS World News 10 News First [s] 7:30 Inside Monaco: Playground Of WIN News [s] The Rich (PG) The Project (PG) [s] 8:35 24 Hours In Emergency: All Aussie Adventures (PG) You’re All I Need To Get By (M) The Montreal Comedy 9:30 Life And Birth (M) Festival (M) [s] 10:40 SBS World News Late Just For Laughs (M) [s] 11:05 Hamilton Agent (MA15+) Kinne Tonight (M l,s) [s] (In Swedish/ English/ Russian/ WIN’s All Australian News [s] Arabic) The Project (PG) [s] 11:55 Outlander: A. Malcolm/ Creme The Late Show With Stephen De Menthe (MA15+) Colbert (PG) [s] 2:15 Safe Harbour (M l) Home Shopping (In English/ Arabic) Headline News [s] Studio 10 (PG) [s] Dr Phil (PG) [s] Jamie’s Ultimate Veg [s] Entertainment Tonight [s] Inside The Children’s Hospital [s] Judge Judy (PG) [s] Freshly Picked With Simon Toohey [s] Farm To Fork [s] The Bold And The Beautiful (PG) [s] 10 News First [s] WIN News [s] The Project (PG) [s] Ambulance Australia (M) [s] NCIS: Blood And Treasure (M) NCIS: Los Angeles: Raising The Dead (M v) [s] NCIS: In A Nutshell (M v) [s] WIN’s All Australian News [s] The Project (PG) [s] The Late Show (PG) [s] Home Shopping CBS This Morning [s]

5:00 5:15 5:30 1:00 2:00

CGTN English News NHK World English News Worldwatch PBS Newshour Epic Warrior Women: Gladiatrix (M d,s,v) 3:00 Great British Railway Journeys (PG) 3:30 Who Do You Think You Are?: John Jarratt (PG) 4:35 Alex Polizzi’s Secret Italy (PG) (In English/ Italian) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Great British Railway Journeys (PG) 8:35 Inside Aldi (PG) 9:30 Where Are You Really From? (PG) 10:00 The Feed 10:30 SBS World News Late 11:00 Why We Hate (M) 11:50 The A Word (M l,s) 12:55 Bad Banks (M l) (In German/ English)

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

Headline News [s] 5:00 CGTN English News Studio 10 (PG) [s] 5:15 NHK World English News Dr Phil (PG) [s] 5:30 Worldwatch Program To be Advised 1:00 PBS Newshour Entertainment Tonight [s] 2:00 Epic Warrior Women: Inside The Children’s Africa’s Amazons (M v) Hospital [s] 3:00 Great British Railway 3:00 Judge Judy (PG) [s] Journeys (PG) 3:30 Freshly Picked With Simon 3:30 Who Do You Think You Are?: Toohey [s] Justine Clarke (PG) 4:00 Farm To Fork [s] 4:35 Alex Polizzi’s Secret Italy (PG) 4:30 The Bold And The Beautiful (In English/ Italian) (PG) [s] 5:30 Letters And Numbers 5:00 10 News First [s] 6:00 Mastermind Australia 6:00 WIN News [s] 6:30 SBS World News 6:30 The Project (PG) [s] 7:30 London’s Great Bridges: 7:30 The Royals Revealed: Harry Lighting The Thames (PG) And Edward - Princes In Exile 8:30 Drain Alcatraz (PG) [s] 9:30 The Sister (M) 8:30 Bull: The Ex Factor (M) [s] 10:25 SBS World News Late 9:30 Bull: Look Back In Anger (M) 10:55 24 Hours In Emergency: 10:30 The Masked Singer USA (M) Safe Haven (M) 11:30 WIN’s All Australian News [s] 11:55 Movie: “Herstory” (M l) (’18) 12:30 The Project (PG) [s] Stars: Hae-sook Kim (In 1:30 The Late Show (PG) [s] Korean) 4:00 Home Shopping 2:05 Vikings (MA15+)

6:00 Headline News [s] Today [s] 8:30 Studio 10 (PG) [s] Today Extra Summer [s] 12:00 Dr Phil (PG) [s] NINE’s Morning News [s] 1:00 Program To be Advised Ellen (PG) [s] 2:00 Entertainment Tonight [s ] Movie: “A Christmas Wish” (PG) (’19) Stars: Hilarie Burton, 2:30 Inside The Children’s Hospital [s] Tyler Hilton, Megan Par, Lee 3:00 Judge Judy (PG) [s] Norris, Cristián de la Fuente, Colin Fickes, Ryan Broussard, 3:30 Freshly Picked With Simon Toohey [s] Madeleine McGraw, Aidan 4:00 Farm To Fork [s] McGraw, Pam Grier 4:30 The Bold And The Beautiful Tipping Point (PG) [s] (PG) [s] NINE’s Afternoon News [s] 5:00 10 News First [s] Millionaire Hot Seat [s] 6:00 WIN News [s] NINE News [s] 6:30 The Project (PG) [s] A Current Affair (PG) [s] 7:30 Jamie’s Easy Christmas Great Getaways (PG) [s] Countdown [s] Race Across The World (PG) 8:30 Law & Order: SVU: Murdered Inside Phuket Airport: At A Bad Address (M) [s] Welcome To Paradise: 9:30 Blue Bloods: In The Name Of High Stakes (PG) [s] NINE News Late [s] The Father (M) [s] World’s Wildest Flights (M) [s] 10:30 Blue Bloods: Ripple Effect (M) Tipping Point (PG) [s] 11:30 WIN’s All Australian News [s] A Current Affair (PG) [s] 12:30 The Project (PG) [s] Home Shopping 1:30 The Late Show (PG) [s]

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

PAGE 21 11 DECEMBER 2020

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

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

5:00 5:15 5:30 1:00 2:00

CGTN English News NHK World English News Worldwatch PBS Newshour Pope: The Most Powerful Man In History (M v) 2:50 Great British Railway Journeys: Cheltenham To Wolverhampton (PG) 3:30 Who Do You Think You Are?: Todd McKenney (PG) 4:35 Alex Polizzi’s Secret Italy (PG) (In English/ Italian) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind Australia 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 The Beatles: Eight Days A Week - The Touring Years 9:30 Lennon’s Last Weekend (PG) 10:35 SBS World News 11:05 24 Hours In Police Custody: What Lies Beneath (M l) 11:55 Wisting (M l,v) (In Norwegian/ English) 4:25 Great British Railway Journeys (PG)

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

PAGE 22 11 DECEMBER 2020

PUZZLES

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

ACROSS

62. Marauder 65. PNG, Papua New ... 67. Without ... or reason 69. Legitimate 70. Luggage items 72. Disapproving cry 73. Media 75. Bullock 77. Fulfilled (demand) 79. Typical 81. Squid fluid 82. Moral fall 84. Stage setting 85. Stay as guest at 86. Get ... behind me, Satan! 87. Pleasantly 88. Fable

1. Warble 4. Endeavour 8. Beach grains 11. Flag, ... Jack 13. Ditto 15. Unborn baby 17. WWW, World Wide ... 18. Fort Knox bar 20. Colony insect 21. Thrust forward 24. Straw bundles 27. Nevada’s ... Vegas 28. Pneumatic wheels 30. Made mistakes 31. Watery snow 33. Alternate ones 34. Sillier DOWN 35. Zodiac Cancer symbol 36. Alleviate 1. Settee 39. Entombment 2. Crazy 42. Anaesthetic 3. Wildebeest 44. Army dining hall 4. Author unknown 45. Calls 5. Turrets 46. Self-defence aerosol 6. Crowded around 48. In the know 7. End piece 49. Fretted 8. Wrongdoing 50. Ancient musical 9. Fish with line & hook instrument 10. Small spots 52. Half-diameters theEighth alphabet only. Isolated tract 54. of gallon once12. 14. Church passage 55. Keeps 16. Walk onstage 56. Translate into cipher 19. Promises 57. Not alive 22. Doormen 60. Castle ditch

MISSING LINK Fill in each letter of

MISSING LINK

Fill in each letter of the alphabet once only.

E T I C

E E L A MS A E N A H E A A I R E

OO A I R O GS G L L EO E P S S M

L E S S A E T A N M E A H

L E S A

I U I N S F R MO L E GA R H A O UR E E N

L A

A S P S C A I OW A E N R A S E L E K A Y A S R

K © Lovatts Puzzles

LAST WEEKS ANSWERS

CCN

Missing Link Solution: Missing Link Solution:

Y S K E E P S L A E L MS T AMO H E N I GA L C H EW E A F A I R S D E

B L OO Z E S J A S I R A T E NGS T X G OV A L EON M E P E A S S I R QU A C K M H

M I QU I N F T A F A R X MO L E I E GA S HOD A O A Z UR E N

V J S R E L A Y C E W A R A S P L L U S C A I H OW R B AGE N R A S P S E L E E K A Y A K S R

23. Berlin language 25. Bends to circumstances 26. Regard favourably 29. Mugging 32. Poet’s word for before 35. Rasped 37. Salesman 38. Apparent 40. Drug addicts 41. Tibetan monks 42. Strange 43. Swift 44. Mediterranean island republic 47. Theatres 51. Simpler 52. Freedom fighters 53. Rude comment 54. Swoop 58. European currency units 59. Dehumidify 61. Horse-like animals 63. More than sufficient 64. Lodge 65. Engine seal 66. High-ranking lords 68. Dwelling 71. Hollow 72. Cigarette’s filter tip 74. Rams’ mates 76. Jealousy 78. College 80. Expert 83. Ready, ..., fire! © Lovatts Puzzles

RESTAURANT Shop 15/7 Link Rd. Green Point Shopping Village Green Point NSW 2251 Ph 43655525 www.boonsthai.com.au We are pleased to announce that we will be OPEN for lunch and dinner from Tuesday 2nd June 2020 © Lovatts Puzzles for DINE IN TAKEAWAY & HOME DELIVERIES continue to be available. Thank you for your continued loyalty and support

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

OUT&ABOUT PAGE 23 11 DECEMBER 2020

DOWN IN THE GARDEN: THE PERFECT GARDENERS CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE from www.craftschooloz.com Native beehives are a must to protect and encourage our precious naïve bees. They are readily available from most garden centres and you might like to create you own for your nature-passionate friend. Instructions can easiest be found online, search: DIY native beehive. And finally … a paper pot making kit. These consist of two wooden parts that help twist newspapers into a small pot. Once seeds germinate and the seedling is established, you simply plant the whole pot. ‘Milkwood’ by Kristen Bradley and Nick Ritar is probably one of the more recent and inspiring works for those wishing to garden with more care of the earth. For the ‘I Kill Everything but I Want a Garden’ Gardener CHERALYN DARCEY

One thing that wasn’t cancelled in 2020 was gardening. And those of us who already enjoy this earthy pursuit have noticed our numbers swell this year as neighbours, friends and family all picked up the trowel and rake. So, if you are out gift hunting at the moment, I’m more than sure there is now a gardener, or a garden-curious loved-one, in your life that would love something from my gardening gift guide. For the ‘I Want to Start Gardening’ Gardener A gardening journal is an excellent present for those beginning their steps into the botanical world – ideally, look for one with gardening tips in it. And everyone should have a good gardening hat – one that suits their style, or offers sun protection, from a wide brim straw hat (my favourite) to a bucket hat. Finally, if they can’t get enough gardening knowledge there’s always the option of a magazine subscription. Try ‘Australian Geographic Gardening School’, by Simon Akeroyd and Ross Bayton. It is brilliant for those venturing into the garden for the first time or wanting to renew their skills. For the ‘Houseplants are Everything’ Gardener Houseplant people cannot get enough pots. Just make sure they have drainage holes and for goodness sake, make sure the pots match their decor perfectly. Is this houseplant person very special in your life? Then a larger cactus might be on their wish list (and easier than rare plants to track down this close to the big day). Alternatively, you could encourage your indoor plant guru to start propagation of their prized treasures. There are ready made kits out there or you could make up a kit yourself from supplies … or you could try giving them my book! ‘The Language of Houseplants’ (Cheralyn Darcey). I also really love The Royal Horticultural Society’s ‘Practical Houseplant Book’, by Fran Bailey and Zia Allaway with its 175 in-depth plant profiles and lots of indoor growing tips. For the ‘I’m Saving the Planet’ Gardener A basket weaving class or online course is a wonderful idea for those who are crafty ecowarriors. Using up the fallen botanical materials in the garden to create something new should also appeal to them. I can also personally recommend any course

Try an indoor smart garden – these can be found in lots of sizes and are made up of a hydroponic growing system that includes a light, pot and usually the growing medium and nutrients. A beautiful watering can may be a subtle hint, but it might just give your brown-thumbed, but garden-interested mate, more motivation to keep their plants watered. Wait, aren’t you a gardening guru? Then why not gift them your time. Make up a gift certificate for one-on-one gardening lessons from you. If not, Top 50 Edible Plants and How Not to Kill Them’ by Angie Thomas is a Yates gardening guide just for them! For the ‘Foodie-Master Chef’ Gardener Harvesting baskets are such lovely and handy items and make practical gifts as well. They can be found in lots of materials and sizes. Look for one that is perhaps a little sturdier for the kitchen gardener. If they don’t have one, a raised garden bed may just be the ticket to creating a kitchen garden. With so many styles out there, I’m sure you will find one perfect to get them growing. Although I’ve used lots of different containers to hold my kitchen scraps while they are awaiting their journey to the compost bin, I am a fan of the purpose-built compost bucket. Most have a charcoal filter and inner removable bucket. You might also want to consider an indoor compost bin for those with limited space. For the reader, ‘Matthew Bigg’s Complete Book of Vegetables in Australia’ describes itself as the definitive sourcebook for growing, harvesting and cooking vegetables and it is right. For the ‘Mystical and Meditative’ Gardener How about a tinkling set of wind chimes? Soothing and beautiful, they can be found in endless designs to match the taste of your gardening friend and their space. A sundial would be a brilliant gift and can be found in all sorts of sizes. Don’t worry about how it works, I’m sure your magical friend will know how or where to find that information. Or there’s always a Zen garden. Those Japanese-inspired trays filled with sand, stones and a rake are much appreciated by the mind, body, spirit focused. ‘The Art of Mindful Gardening’ by Ark Redwood is a lovely title that explores the healing and mediative aspects of gardening. Another book I think this type of gardener would enjoy is ‘The Garden Apothecary’ by Reece Carter which is a fantastic resource for those wanting to create their own herbal

remedies. For the ‘Art and Craft is Life’ Gardener One of the best things I found this year was a set of metal alphabet stamps so I could create my own metal garden label stakes. They can be found in hardware and craft stores. It might be getting a bit late to order this but have a look for custom stamp creators or if you are arty/craft as well, get the carving tools out and create a personalised stamp reading something like ‘from the garden of …’ A plain terracotta pot and a selection of suitable art materials such as weather-proof paints or markers to make their own garden art masterpiece is another idea. ‘The Laws Guide to Nature Drawing and Journaling’ by John Muir Laws is a drawing course in a book and one that has been the foundation of many modern botanical artists. For the ‘I’m not sure why I’m not on Gardening Australia yet’ Gardener There are lots of very gorgeous gardening labelling stakes to be found in metals, ceramics and weather-proof timbers. And have I told you lately how much I love gardening hand balms and creams? Well for the gardening obsessed in your life this is a very thoughtful gift. My favourites include Aveeno Intensive Relief Hand Cream, L’Occitane Intensive Hand Balm and The Body Shop Hemp Hand Cream. Most of us have stopped using reusable coffee cups this year due to COVID but you know who needs them? Gardeners! We don’t want bugs in our drinks so look for a garden-themed lidded mug, cup or water bottle. A great read for the holidays for the master gardener is ‘Banks’ by Grantlee Kieza. It is a new biography that any garden and plant lover will appreciate. For the ‘I may be young, but I can do it’ Gardener Children love inviting friendly creatures into the garden, so a bird house is a lovely idea. Buy a ready-made one or better yet one they can make or decorate themselves. Dress up is also loved by most children so a gardening apron and gloves are not only essential to protect the little ones, but will also bring a sense of play time and excitement to gardening. Oh, and Pets! The best gardening pets are worms and if you gift a child their own worm farm, they will love you forever and so will their garden.

‘Easy Peasy Gardening for Kids’, by Kirsten Bradley and illustrated by Aitch is a beautiful introduction to gardening for children that not only explains how to garden but also shares lots of practical and fun activities. A few other ideas to suit everyone … A wishing well, seed raising kit, heirloom seeds, a flower press, a bird bath, a garden gnome or garden sculpture, a kneeling pad, gardening boots, a mushroom growing kit, tool basket or trug, and if you really can’t decide then nothing says ‘I love you’ like a gift card from one of your local gardening centres. UPCOMING GARDEN EVENTS SWAMP (Sustainable Wetlands Agricultural Makers Project) Welcome and Induction Morning: Sunday 13th December 9am to 11am. Located at the Central Coast Wetlands - Pioneer Dairy this new community garden/farm and food project is opening the gate so you can see what is happening and perhaps join in as volunteer roles and opportunities are now available. Bookings are free for details and to book: www. swampcentralcoast.com.au Coachwood Nursery Open Days 18,19 December 9am to 3pm. Free Entry. We also have regular workshops for $49. Succulent & herbal teas workshops this December. Plants start at $2 or, 12 for $20, or 33 for $50. www. coachwoodnursery.com New Gardening and Food Playgroup: enrolling now for 2021. All the details can be found at their website: https://littlepeoplenutrition.com.au/foodienature-play-on-the-central-coast Community Gardening Network: a fantastic resource found on Facebook that connects and supports all community gardens on the Central Coast: www.facebook.com/ CentralCoastCommunityGardenNetwork THIS WEEK YOU COULD PLANT beetroot, carrots, chilli, silver beet, lettuce, leek, beans, corn, cucumber, pumpkin, zucchini, parsley, pyrethrum, lemongrass, mint, nasturtium, verbena, petunias, marigolds, phlox, celosia. Cheralyn Darcey is a gardening author, community garden coordinator and along with Pete Little, hosts ‘The Gardening Gang’ 8 - 9am every Saturday on Coast FM. Send your gardening questions, events and news to: gardeningcentralcoast@gmail.com

PAGE 24 11 DECEMBER 2020 OUT&ABOUT

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

Olivia finds a different kind of match The North Gosford-based star of the Netflix and ABC show, Love on the Spectrum, which sets out to help people with autism find love, has found a different kind of match in Wyoming through scoring herself a job with Cheeky Cherubs Preschool. Following almost nine years of unemployment, Olivia Tranter now works as a kitchen hand at the preschool, fulfilling her goal of working in childcare, while supporting her dream of being an actress. Tranter, who lives with autism, was helped into the job by Asuria Employment Service Job Coach, Adin O’Riley. Despite the first few weeks being difficult, Tranter said she is happy to be in the workforce making money.

“It was pretty difficult at the start, but I had Adin there with me to help with the transition which helped,” Tranter said. “Adin is a lovely guy. “He was the one who managed to get me a job after nine years. “Ever since I was 14, I wanted to be a childcare teacher, and when I was 19, I finally got to study it after I graduated. “But three-quarters of the way through the year, they kicked me out because of my autism.” Having spent the first four weeks at work with Olivia helping to prepare food and easing her into the role, O’Riley said he continues to provide support for Tranter through weekly catchups and goal setting. “When I met Olivia, she had

Olivia Tranter (left) with Early Childhood Educator at Cheeky Cherubs, Zoe Ross-Clark

been out of work for nine years, and she thought it was impossible and had almost given up,” O’Riley said. “So, I thought, no, we are not going to give up, because she

wanted a job and wanted paid work. “I asked her whether she wanted to work, and she said yes. “But she had just felt really let

down about everything and felt like I was just another job provider. “That really made me think, that was not on – I got in there and did the job with her until she had the confidence to do it herself.” Cheeky Cherubs Preschool works with children who have additional needs and has been family owned for seven years. Cheeky Cherubs Early Childhood Educator, Zoe RossClark, said Tranter has a great work ethic. “She is positive in her approach, and she will always ask questions,” Ross-Clark said. “Olivia said from the beginning that she was not comfortable cooking on a gas top because she struggled to concentrate on multiple things

at once. “So, we decided she (could) use the oven to start, and then make a salad. “She does not have too much interaction with the children, but when she does, she is perfect.” With acting is a huge part of her life, Tranter said she is glad her new job still lets her pursue her dream. “I have been part of Options Theatre Company for four years,” Tranter said. “I just filmed a role for a TV show which will be airing next year. “I want to be a successful screenwriter and see more people with disabilities in the arts. Jacinta Counihan

Santa to pay Copa an early visit The children of Copacabana are gearing up for a very special visit from Santa on December 12 as he pays his annual visit to the beachside suburb. The visit is organised each year by Copa Life, a small group

Santa during last year’s visit to Copacabana

CCN

of volunteers who organise social activities and foster a community spirit. The Santa visit has been going on for 15 years. This year, Santa will be at the Flagpole lawn at 11.20am, and outside the medical centre at noon.

He will also visit local shops to wish them all a Merry Christmas. The group will also a collection of new toys and hamper items for the Salvation Army Christmas Appeal in front of the medical centre on December 19 and 20.

Pre-loved goods cannot be accepted, due to COVID restrictions. Donations can be dropped off between noon and 2pm each day. Terry Collins

COASTAL DIARY EVENTS OVER THE NEXT FEW WEEKS ON THE CENTRAL COAST

FRIDAY, DEC 11 Bowl Groms, Narara Skate Park 3pm - 5pm

SATURDAY, DEC 12 Wyee Markets, Wyee Community Hall, 8:30am - 1pm

12pm - 9pm SUNDAY, DEC 13

Grounds, Gosford, Ticketed, 12:15pm - 2pm

SATURDAY, DEC 26

Carols by the Lake, Open home, Family Fun Fair, Gwandalan Foreshore, Sunnylakes Shores - 2 Terrigal Memorial 12pm - 8pm Macleay Dr, Halekulani, Foreshore, 10am - 12pm 26/12 - 17/01, WEDNESDAY, DEC 16 register your interest at 10am - 6pm 0458 018 332 GEBC December Luncheon Event: Guest Speaker The FRIDAY, DEC 18 Twilight Markets, Hon. Damien Tudehope MP, Central Coast Christmas Heazlett Park Avoca Beach, The Entertainment

Market, Gosford Showgrounds, 5pm - 9pm SUNDAY, DEC 20

Central Coast Stadium, THURSDAY, DEC 31 Ticketed events, Kick off 3pm, Carols at 5:30pm See ticketek for more details

Coast Markets, Brick Wharf Rd Reserve Woy Woy, 7am - 4pm

SATURDAY, JAN 23

Mariners v Jets, Tuggerah Lakes Art Society: Central Coast Stadium, Home Baked Exhibition and Handcraft Market, Ticketed, 6pm Belle Of The Turf Race Day,

TUESDAY, DEC 29

Carols on the Coast & Central Coast Mariners v Young Socceroos,

The Entertainment Grounds SUNDAY, JAN 10 Gosford, Ticketed, 12pm - 5pm Handmade on the

The Entrance Community Gallery, 23/01 - 31/01, Ticketed entry

Basic entries in the Coastal Diary are FREE. Send information to coastaldiary@centralcoastnews.net

ENHANCED entries using bold typeface with an address, phone number and a live link are available for a small fee. Photographs can also be added for a small fee. All display advertisers are entitled to a free enhanced entry.

CCN

YOUR ADVERTISEMENT HERE

CALL 02 4325 7369 OR SEE WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

BUSINESS & PROPERTY PAGE 25 11 DECEMBER 2020

Business & Property Commuter numbers plummet as working from home takes hold Working from home has become increasingly popular among Central Coast workers with latest data showing a decrease in people commuting to Sydney and an increase in those using co-working hubs. According to Opal Card data collected by See-Change Analytics, 66 per cent fewer people travelled on the Central Coast train line this October compared to last. See-change Analytics founder Patrick Spedding said this decrease in commuters is reinforced by a corresponding drop in Gosford CBD parking, which was also down over 65% year over year for October. “Similarly, the M1 traffic count data from Transport for NSW shows, while traffic volumes have recovered from the April and May lockdown lows, average daily traffic counts are still down roughly 1,000 light vehicles per day, year over year,” Spedding said. “The reduction is less than might be expected; however, this can be explained by the shift by many commuters from public transport to the car, driven by COVID concerns.” Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch, also commented on the trend at a Future of Work webinar hosted by Central Coast Newspapers on November 30.

There has been a marked decrease in Opal Card train trips on the Central Coast train line

Among the approximately 400 commuters she surveyed, 69 per cent were not happy working in company offices, while 79 per cent were happy working from home. There was a 10 per cent drop in the number of 20 to 29-yearolds happy working from home, which Tesch said could be attributed to their potential lack of available at-home working spaces. Tesch also addressed a recent survey by The Public Sector Association (PSA), showing flexible work as

women’s top priority. “We are shifting the concept from work from home into the concept of flexible work because realistically my respondents, the PSA respondents and the Deloitte survey respondents indicate they want a mixture of some working in the town and some at home,” Tesch said. Through analysing credit card spends, Spedding said retail spend by Central Coast residents in Sydney (i.e. commuters) remains significantly down year over

year. “Interestingly, notwithstanding common perceptions regarding ‘people from Sydney who contribute enormously to the local economy’, the retail spend data shows Sydney resident credit cards currently contribute around 2.5 per cent to the local economy (specifically ABS Statistical Area 2 Avoca Beach/ Copacabana),” Spedding said. “Whereas Central Coast resident credit cards account for between 65 to 75 per cent of the share of local retail

spend.” Nexus Smart Hub founder, Damien Wilde, and The Foundry Co-working Hub founder, Mel Archer, both explained their experience at the webinar. Wilde started the five Nexus Smart Hubs around Sydney and Central Coast, six years ago in connection with the State Government. The hubs were designed to attract commuters, but initially, he said, small businesses used them the most. “The trend of commuters using the hub has gotten better

from where we were six years ago, but I think the whole COVID experience has accelerated that and will continue to accelerate it,” Wilde said. “A lot of commuters wanted to work from these hubs, but a lot of the middle management was not confident in how productive they would be working remotely.” Archer from The Foundry said she had seen a dramatic increase in people using the co-working space. “Since COVID, I think half of the membership in here are commuters, whereas before I think I had one or two, so there has been a big shift,” Archer said. “Previous to COVID, employers were resisting the remote work idea even though commuters were really wanting it. “So it is kind of nice that it has been forced on them and they have been forced to embrace it in some ways. “I think now employers are looking at ways to support and optimise these spaces, with a lot of them funding co-working spaces as well. “I think this is something that will continue to happen as the CBD force base is reduced, and more satellite offices will start popping up in co-working home spaces.” Jacinta Counihan

FULLY-FURNISHED OFFICE SUITES FOR ANY TYPE OF BUSINESS. Nexus Business Hub in Wyong is unmatched for contemporary office spaces on the Central Coast. Enjoy the same benefits usually reserved for large corporates at a fraction of the cost. Go about your day-to-day business with an exclusive concierge service, the fastest internet on the Coast and a host of other benefits, all from the luxury of your own dedicated suite. With flexible lease terms available, there’s an office waiting to be configured to your specifications.

Book a personal tour at nexushub.com.au

1300 877 977

3 Amy Close North Wyong NSW 2259

nexushub

> Flexible lease terms > Complimentary gym > On-site parking > Concierge service > Meeting rooms > Business class lounge

PAGE 26 11 DECEMBER 2020

BUSINESS & PROPERTY

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

Delta consolidation plan Delta Coal is planning to consolidate the operations of its Chain Valley and Mannering collieries under one development approval, with the same environmental protection measures, and boost its workforce by 110.

Blue outline shows the current CVC boundary consent and red outline shows the Northern Mining Area

The two mines supply coal to Vales Point Power Station, but at present operate under separate development consents and environment protection licences. This Chain Valley Colliery Consolidation Project aims to synchronisethetwodevelopment consents and environment protection licences. Delta Coal also proposes to extend the CVC consent boundary to allow mining into the Northern Mining area, approved coal lease areas it acquired in April 2019 from Centennial’s Myuna Colliery. Approval of the Consolidation Project will extend the mine life of CVC and MC by another two

years to the end of 2029. The modification proposal also seeks to increase the number of employees under the CVC consent by 110 to a total of 330 full-time equivalent employees. Umwelt, an environmental and social consultancy company, is conducting a community engagement program to proactively contact landholders in the vicinity of the project to seek their views on the issues that are of most importance to them. Senior Social Consultant, Sarah Bell, can be contacted via email at social-team@umwelt.com.au or by phone on 4950 5322. Meanwhile, a Statement of Environmental Effects is open for publicexhibitionuntilWednesday, December 16. It can be found online at planningportal.nsw.gov.au/ major projects and quoting SSD5465-Mod-4 Sue Murray

Pure indulgence at Loaded Dough Multiple chunks of gooey goodness have made their way to Terrigal, with two entrepreneurs opening a New York-style cookie bar right in the heart of the suburb called Loaded Dough. Partners, Kasinda Croser and Mitch Connor, launched the store on December 5, selling over 1000 cookies, cookie cakes, and cookie pizzas. Connor said they originally opened a shop in Wyong but closed it down to make way for running the Terrigal store. “The opening went really well,” Connor said. “It was exactly what we thought it was going to be like, really fun, and we were happy in how it turned out. “Terrigal is really good as

there are a lot of people around. “We want to try open on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays with a day and night shift, because the nightlife here is good.” Both Connor and Croser are fitness enthusiasts, but said the idea to make and sell indulgent cookies came about one weekend when they were having their ‘cheat day’. “We both like fitness, but on the weekends, we also like to eat bad and make our own food,” Connor said. “So, one weekend, we started making cookies and posted it up on Instagram. “Heaps of my mates kept asking me where I got them, and I said I made them. “They were asking if I would make them some, which I did,

and everyone seemed to like them. “I started an Instagram page, and it grew from there. “We both had to leave our jobs about six weeks after starting the business.” The business officially started on July 1, which Connor said was mid-COVID. “Our shop did not seem to be affected by the restrictions too much as it was not really a restaurant-style store,” he said. “People came by, picked up some cookies, and then left.” Connor’s favourite flavours are Caramilk and Nutella, but he said there are plenty of other flavours to choose from, with vegan (and hopefully glutenfree) on the way. Jacinta Counihan

Owners of Loaded Dough, Mitch Connor and Kasinda Croser

United Pest Management have been servicing the Central Coast for the past 20 years. We cover all aspects of pest control

CALL US NOW ON 4365 0596

• Annual termite inspections • Termguard warranty inspections & Termguard Charge ups • Termite eradication • Cockroaches, Ants, Spiders, Silverfish, rodents • Pre purchase Building & pest reports

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

BUSINESS & PROPERTY PAGE 27 11 DECEMBER 2020

Hotondo Homes helps wish come true Central Coast building company, Hotondo Homes, has received the prestigious Make-A-Wish Australia Event of the Year Award for its Champagne Brunch, held in October. Business owners, Jon and Lyndsey Clarke, are passionate about supporting local community events and this event raised more than $5,400 for Make-A-Wish to help grant the wishes of children and teens facing a life threatening illness. More than 65 local women attended the event to help raise money for children, just like six-year-old Priya, who has acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.

Priya’s wish was to have a party at the beach with all her favourite princesses and the Champagne Brunch helped make that happen. “We are so lucky to have a happy and healthy family of our own, and we know it’s sadly not the case for everyone,” Jon Clarke said. “We’re in a position that we can give back and help others, so we’re more than happy to do so.” Guests were entertained by silent auctions, raffles and inspired by guest speakers, as well as local businesses becoming involved by donating their own goods and services for the occasion.

“While we were planning the event we stumbled upon an amazing local woman who had a direct experience with MakeA-Wish many years ago when her son was ill, and she ended up speaking at the event and telling her heart-warming story,” Lyndsey Clarke said. “We still stay in touch and have formed a beautiful friendship.” The team is now brainstorming new and innovative ideas for next year’s Make-A-Wish fundraiser and plans are in motion for a Sunset Soiree. Source: Media release, Dec 3 Hotondo Homes

Six-year-old Priya got her wish to have a “princess picnic” by the beach

Government grant allows major expansion Lisarow will soon be the home of an Australian beverage manufacturer that produces some of the country’s tastiest alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, thanks to $1.755M from the NSW Government’s Regional Investment Attraction Fund. The funding will allow Australian Beverage Contract (ABC) Filling to consolidate its existing facilities at Lisarow, expand operations and create 144 new full-time equivalent jobs and more than 120 construction jobs and retain 35 existing jobs. ABC Filling will establish a new food and beverage manufacturing plant, research laboratory, distribution centre,

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch, with Operations Manager, Adam Neale, and Brewery head, Tim Best

which produces a broad range of beers including pale ales, lagers, stouts and Australia’s first non-alcoholic craft beer. ABC Filling Managing Director, Andrew Mawdsley, said the company would benefit from having all its operations

a restaurant and bar, brewery tours, education facilities, a conference centre and a manufacturing plant to produce hand sanitiser and disinfectant. The expansion will also help grow its in-house brand, Hawkesbury Brewing Co,

Sm oking Dragon

MEGA STORE CASH PAID FOR GOOD QUALITY SWORDS, KNIVES WAR & MOVIE MEMORABILIA [not kitchen]

173 The Entrance Road - The Entrance

4333 8555

consolidated under the one roof, as it streamlined processes and allowed the company to offer the best possible service. “After careful consideration for the future of our business, we were overwhelmed by the

team at the Department of Regional NSW and their support, expertise and vision for manufacturing on the Central Coast,” he said. Parliamentary Secretary for Central Coast, Adam Crouch, said ABC Filling was a worldclass operation with expertise in the thriving manufacturing and craft brewing sectors. “I am thrilled we have won this investment opportunity which will bring business from interstate to our own region,” he said. “The NSW Government is rolling out the red carpet, not the red tape, for manufacturers and I can’t wait to deliver on the benefits this expansion will offer the Central Coast.” Deputy Premier and Minister

for Regional NSW, John Barilaro, said this was exactly the kind of project the Regional Investment Attraction Fund was designed to deliver and what the Regional Job Creation Fund was helping to bring forward with its $100M funding. “This investment will advance manufacturing capability in the region, create training opportunities for local workers to upskill while the new restaurant and brewery tours will contribute significantly to the Central Coast’s already diverse tourism offering,” Barilaro said. Source: Media release, Dec 8 Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch

ATTENTION BUILDERS LOOKING FOR TILERS?

Homes to NV has a team of 4 licenced tilers, to tackle those big tiling jobs in a fraction of the time, keeping you ahead of schedule. Call Justin on 0439 589 426

PAGE 28 11 DECEMBER 2020

BUSINESS & PROPERTY

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

Planning panel looks at streamlining DAs Central Coast’s Local Planning Panel will consider new rules to hasten the pace of development application (DA) decisions. The number of complaints about a development will need to reach 15 before it triggers the Local Planning Panel to get involved, under changes being discussed. The Planning Panel is looking

at more DAs to be delegated to Council staff to decide. The planning panel meeting on December 10 will consider how to “hasten the pace of development determinations”. One option is to reduce the number of matters being considered by both the Regional Planning Panel and Local Planning Panel, through an increased level of delegation to staff for minor/less significant

matters. A second option is an Approved Submissions Policy which Council staff are currently compiling and which will go to the Council (read Administrator) for approval. “Such a policy may impact on the number of applications referred to the Local Planning Panel for determination,” the report to the meeting says. Other options are making use

of electronic determinations in dealing with matters which do not require a public meeting; and dealing with a slightly higher number of matters per meeting. The report also notes the costs so far of each meeting since the panel started meeting in June. It has met 13 times and meetings have cost almost $12,000 each.

The sitting fees and travel expenses of the panel members totalled about $6,570 per meeting and the costs grew to $11,865 with the additional cost of Council staff and secretariat services. The panel says these estimates are based on the conduct of remote meetings. It assumes they would increase were meetings conducted in person, as a

result of booking meeting space, catering, cleaning, security and other arrangements. The panel will also consider a number of development applications (see separate story) in its last meeting for the year. The panel is then not scheduled to meet again until February next year. Merilyn Vale

Armidale shows solidarity with Coast ratepayers Irate Armidale residents have offered support to the Central Coast, setting up a Facebook page for Coasties to campaign - like Armidale - against a rate rise.

Armidale residents protest outside the Armidale chambers

The Facebook page is called Protest Against Extreme Rates of the Central Coast and has been started as a sister page to the one for Armidale. Joshua Fittler, a fifth generation New Englander whose family settled on the outskirts of Armidale in the 1850s, started both pages and has added some Coast administrators to the local page. “This group is for the purpose of forming real plans and taking real action against rate hikes and irresponsible fiscal management within the Central Coast Council,” Fittler writes on the page which already has almost 300 members after going public a few days ago. “This is not a group for tyre kicking.” The Armidale page has more than 800 members and the group has held some public protests. The Armidale area has about 30,000 residents versus ten times that on the Coast (about 333,000 residents). Fittler was a candidate for the previous Armidale Regional Council election and is leading the charge against a rate hike in his area. Armidale residents are facing rate rises that would total 20 per cent under one option. Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock suspended Armidale Regional Council on June 12 for a period of three months and appointed an Interim Administrator. That was extended for another three months with suspension due to end on

December 11. Here on the Central Coast, our Council was put under administrator, Dick Persson, on October 30 and he has said he will ask the Minister for a second three months in the chair before handing the business back to the councillors. The other option is to continue in administration and hold an inquiry. The Armidale ratepayer rights activists are demanding a fair and reasonable level of rates as well as a higher degree of financial transparency from Armidale Regional Council. Fittler says the problems are not much different to the Coast. “We are in the middle of the most significant economic downturn for 70 years,” he said. “On top of that, the community is recovering from the effects of bushfires and the worst drought in the history of rainfall recording. “And the Council wants to

make permanent a seven year old special rates variation of 10 per cent which was due to expire this year and apply for another 10 per cent.” Here on the Coast, the Administrator has flagged a possible 10 per cent rate increase. The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) will make the final decision. Central Coast Council blamed the IPART decision to decrease water rates by a total of $39M in 2019 for adding to its financial woes. The Council revealed on December 2 that the Coast is $565M in debt, partly due to $200M in restricted funds being accessed for operational funds when they shouldn’t have been. The council already had a debt of $317M when it was formed in 2016 as an amalgamation of Wyong and Gosford local government areas. Merilyn Vale

If you’re reading this, so are

160,000

other people COMMUNITY

CCN

CCN Imagine if it was a message about your business.

Call 4325 7369

or see the website www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

PAGE 29 11 DECEMBER 2020

DUCTED PACKAGES FULLY INSTALLED ALL WITH 5 YEARS PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY

NO DEPOSIT

DUCTED PACKAGE 1

MONTHS INTEREST FREE#

Conditions apply. See store or website for details. Minimum purchase $1600.00

DUCTED PACKAGE 2 12.5kW COOLING & 14kW HEATING INVERTER NEW • 6 OUTLETS MODE WITH 2 ZONES L

12.5kW COOLING & 14kW HEATING INVERTER NEW • 6 OUTLETS MODE WITH 2 ZONES L

6495

6995

DUCTED PACKAGE 5

DUCTED PACKAGE 6

14kW COOLING & 16kW HEATING INVERTER • 8 OUTLETS WITH 2 ZONES

20kW 3 PHASE • 10 OUTLETS WITH 3 ZONES

8795

* AFTER $500 CASH BACK

INC GST

*VIA REDEMPTION

LY FUL LLED TA INS

3HP INVERTER REVERSE CYCLE SPLIT SYSTEM 7.1kW Cooling, 8.0kW Heating

LY FUL LLED A T INS

3HP INVERTER REVERSE CYCLE SPLIT SYSTEM 7.1kW Cooling, 8.0kW Heating

LY FUL LLED TA INS

10995

DUCTED PACKAGE 3

DUCTED PACKAGE 4

12.5kW DUCTED SYSTEM BONUS BAC WITH 14kW HEATING E CO T K LIT OU WA C H • 6 OUTLETS CO NT LL ROL WITH 2 ZONES

14kW COOLING & 16kW BONUS BAC HEATING INVERTER E CO T K LIT OU WA C H • 8 OUTLETS CO NT LL ROL WITH 2 ZONES

7995

* AFTER $250

INC GST

CASH BACK *VIA REDEMPTION

LY FUL LLED A T INS

3HP INVERTER REVERSE CYCLE SPLIT SYSTEM 7.1kW COOLING, 8kW HEATING

8995

* AFTER $250 CASH BACK

INC GST

*VIA REDEMPTION

5 YEARS

PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY!

UP TO 17 METRE REACH

2295

LY FUL LLED A T 5 YEARS 3HP INVERTER REVERSE I N S PARTS & LABOUR CYCLE SPLIT SYSTEM WARRANTY! 7.1kW COOLING, 8kW HEATING

DAIKIN

2695

5 YEARS

PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY!

LY FUL LLED A T INS

1HP

2495

5 YEARS

1HP

PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY!

2295

5 YEARS

PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY!

MULTIHEAD PACKAGE • 1 Outdoor and 2 Indoor Units • Ideal for 2 Bedrooms • Individual Control for Every Room

LY FUL LLED TA INS

5 YEARS

PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY!

5 YEARS

PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY!

3295

LY FUL LLED TA INS

5 YEARS

PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY!

1.5HP INVERTER REVERSE CYCLE SPLIT SYSTEM 3.5kW Cooling, 4kW Heating

1695

1HP INVERTER REVERSE CYCLE SPLIT SYSTEM 2.5kW Cooling, 3.0kW Heating

1349

2HP REVERSE CYCLE 5.1kW Cooling, 5.1kW Heating

1495

2/8 Kerta Rd, Kincumber, NSW 2251

www.globalrez.com.au WE SELL ALL THE MAJOR BRANDS. COMMERCIAL QUOTES ARE WELCOMED.

INC GST

AFTER $250 CASH BACK *VIA REDEMPTION

3/11 Accolade Ave, Morisset, NSW 2264 ph: 9371 1611 ph: 1300 781 855 Email: sales@globalrez.com.au

* Terms and Conditions apply. All prices are based on Single Story Homes and Back to Back installation on split systems or extra charges apply. Finance is subject to approval check with store for conditions and charges. Ducted Air conditioning pricing is based on single storey homes only or extra charges apply. Licence number 215189c.

INC GST

PAGE 30 11 DECEMBER 2020

BUSINESS & PROPERTY

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

Panel defers caravan park decision

The Local Planning Panel wants legal advice on the permissibility of a caravan park proposal at Avoca Beach. An applicant wanting permission for a caravan park has been given four weeks to come back to the panel with amended plans and an amended waste management plan. Once those plans are submitted to Central Coast Council, the Council will seek legal advice, following directions from the planning panel. The panel deferred a decision on a caravan park development application when it met last week. The proposal, from Barker Ryan Stewart on behalf of Resort Parks Australia Management Pty Ltd, is for 57 long term dwelling sites, 5 short term caravan sites and an office and amenities building at 1 Bowtells Dr, Avoca Beach. The panel said it wants the

The Local Planning Panel wants legal advice on a caravan park proposal for Avoca Beach

concept plans amended to include floor plans and elevations for the whole site and to demonstrate that habitable floor levels are above the flood standard including freeboard. Other amendments include: the community building

comprising the office and amenities is setback from the boundary of a dwelling site a minimum of 10m; the deletion of six long-term dwelling sites with no more than two dwelling sites are to be attached, in a semi detached arrangement and with a minimum 3m

setback between dwelling sites. The panel has instructed Council to obtain legal advice in relation to the permissibility of the proposed development once it has received all the amended plans.

The proposed development has been through a number of revisions since 2017 with a total of 281 public submissions over the years. The 2.79ha site is north of The Round Dr, adjacent to the southern section of Avoca Lagoon.

The long-term dwelling sites would contain homes manufactured off site and transported to the site for installation. The type of manufactured homes that were submitted with the application are shown as having two storeys, three bedrooms, double garage, kitchen, living and rumpus rooms. The proposal includes a 15m setback from the Avoca Lagoon foreshore. Four residents including Steve Fortey, President of Avoca Beach Community Association, spoke to the panel against the Council recommendation to consent to the development. The panel said there was insufficient information for it to make a final decision. The vote was unanimous. The matter will come back to the panel. Merilyn Vale

JobMaker wage subsidy to support youth employment Eligible Central Coast employers are now able to register for the new JobMaker Hiring Credit scheme, being administered by the ATO on behalf of the Government. The JobMaker Hiring Credit payment is a wage subsidy paid directly to employers that will help to accelerate growth in the employment of young people during the COVID-19 economic recovery. The scheme is an incentive for businesses to employ additional job seekers aged 16

to 35. Eligible employers can access the payment for up to 12 months for each eligible additional employee they hire between October 7, 2020, and October 6, 2021. They will be able to claim up to $200 a week for each additional eligible employee they hire aged 16 to 29 and up to $100 a week for those aged 30 to 35. This means that an employer will be eligible for up to a total of $10,400 over the year for each eligible employee aged 16 to 29 or $5,200 if aged 30

to 35. Deputy Commissioner, James O’Halloran, said the ATO is working hard to make it as easy as possible for employers to access the Government’s JobMaker Hiring Credit payment. “The ATO is here to support employers and the community to easily access important economic stimulus like the JobMaker Hiring Credit,” O’Halloran said. He encouraged businesses to check their eligibility and take the first step to register for the scheme so they can move to

quickly make a claim in February 2021. You cannot claim if you are not registered. “Employers are reminded that new employees must have received the Parenting Payment, Youth Allowance (Other) or JobSeeker Payment for at least 28 consecutive days (or two fortnights) within the 84 days (or six fortnights) of being hired to allow for a claim to be made by the employer,” O’Halloran said. “There are some key dates to keep in mind, and simple steps employers can take now, but

please remember that not everything needs to be done from next week.” You can register through ATO online services, the Business Portal or your registered tax or BAS agent. Claims for the first quarterly payment will open on February 1, 2021. The last day you are able to claim for employees is October 6, 2021 but if you hire an employee on that date, you are able to claim for payment to October 6, 2022. More information on the

Is your sleep as good as it should be? For over a decade, Pacific Sleep has been your local provider for sleep health solutions on the Central Coast. Proudly independent, we offer ongoing care and support with all major brands of sleep equipment. We won’t sleep until you get the sleep you deserve! Contact Pacific Sleep today for: • Home sleep testing • CPAP trials and rental • CPAP or BiPAP equipment and support • Home oxygen therapy solutions, including AIRVO ™ Conveniently located at North Gosford Private Hospital Specialist Centre and at the heart of Toukley shopping district.

Call 4339 1222 Email info@pacificsleep.com.au | pacificsleep.com.au | Pacific Sleep is an approved DVA supplier North Gosford Specialist Centre, Suite 2, 14-18 Jarrett Street | Toukley 45 Canton Beach Road

JobMaker Hiring Credit scheme is available at https://www.ato. gov.au/General/JobMakerHiring-Credit/ If you are an individual, sole trader, small or medium business and having difficulty meeting tax and super obligations because of COVID-19, contact the ATO’s Emergency Support Infoline on 1800 806 218 to discuss tailored support options. Source: Media release, Dec 7 ATO Media

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE PAGE 31 11 DECEMBER 2020

Nourishing, wholefood Tiramisu – part 1

GEORGIA LIENEMANN Tiramisu has become one of my favourite desserts for this time of year and is the perfect treat for entertaining. I spent one long Summer experimenting and now have a delicious recipe to share with you. Made the traditional way using raw egg yolks, it’s a wholefood twist on a classic dessert that will both revitalise and nourish. That’s the good news. The bad news is that you’ll be waiting until next week to get your mitts on the recipe! It’s not a difficult thing to make but it does fall into the ‘labour of love’ category and thus the recipe instructions alone nearly max out my permitted weekly word count. So do stay tuned for that, next week. It will be worth the wait, I assure you! For now, please allow me to wax lyrical about my all-time favourite dessert. Italian brothel cake, the ultimate pickme-up For such a classic dish, this dessert has a relatively murky history. Believed to have come to life in the Italian town of Treviso, near Venice, it encompasses the flavours of the region – strong espresso, mascarpone, eggs and Marsala. Italians say that tiramisu is a strong aphrodisiac with a saucy history among the brothels of Treviso, where it was used to reinvigorate exhausted clients after their patronisation. Incidentally, the name tiramisu means energy booster, translating more directly to

‘pick me up’ or ‘lift me up’. Whatever its origins, with its combined coffee, sugar, alcohol and protein hit, this luscious dessert certainly lives up to its name. In fact, as far as folklore goes, it was this quality that saw tiramisu fed to the sick, as well as mothers, for postpartum nourishment. Please don’t quote me as recommending it for the latter! Although I do encourage new mums to dose up on egg yolks. This is a well-known traditional practice which favours brain development, thanks in part, to the impressive amount of choline they contain. In some parts of rural China, up to ten yolks per day are encouraged. My ongoing obsession with Tiramisu I’ve been obsessed with this dessert since a spiritual awakening of sorts, which unfolded at an Italian restaurant in downtown Manhattan for my 28th birthday. I was living in New York at the time and up until that moment, had never been particularly fond of tiramisu. During this meal, the lights went on. Since then, I’ve eaten it so regularly, that I fancy myself as a bit of a connoisseur. It’s the only dessert we ordered for 3 weeks straight, on our last trip to Italy. (Just as an FYI, gelato falls into the ‘snack’ category. I’m not so outlandish as to pit the two against each other!) All told, we probably averaged one serving of Tiramisu per day. In the noble pursuit of knowledge, of course. Now, anyone who knows me will attest to the fact that I’m that annoyingly chirpy,

glass-half-full type. I don’t grumble about much. However, I do have a rather exhaustive list of pet hates, when it comes to the way this dessert is prepared. I don’t like the ‘biscuit’ layer too wet, or too dry. And it has to be real cake, not those heavily processed, cardboard-dry savoiardi biscuits! The cream layer mustn’t be too rich and heavy, or worse still, overly fluffy and light. The coffee can’t be too weak. And real, dark chocolate always trumps powdered, as the topping. You get the idea.. My number one pet peeve? That there are raw vegan chefs (and hey, I used to be one, many years ago) calling their dense, nutbased ‘cheesecakes’, tiramisu, just because there’s a splash of coffee in it. Hands off this classic, I say! My wholefood take on a classic dessert I remember being sad to have finished the recipe testing for this one. Granted, it may have triggered a temporary relapse into coffee addiction (after 15 years of abstinence), but we had such a nice little routine going in our house for several weeks there. Breakfast, a bit of work around the farm, then a mid-morning slice of healthy tiramisu. It was nourishing on many levels. Self-care for the soul. And I started to cherish and keenly anticipate the ritual. (Might have been the addiction talking.) I finally worked out why next week’s recipe is such a revelation – it’s kind of showstopping, actually. One idea that I explore in

depth in my online program ‘What To Eat’, is that nutrient dense foods are actually the most flavourful. Our taste buds are in fact, engineered to discern and savour nutritional complexity. That is, at least, once we’ve returned to our intended diet of real food. Freshly picked veggies and greens from mineral-rich soils are worlds apart from the supermarket stuff, for example. Even young children can taste the difference – hence, their unparalleled eagerness to eat homegrown produce! So, when I first made this tiramisu from our chickens’ freshly laid, organic eggs (an entire dozen of them!), locally grown organic coffee and unrefined rapadura sugar with all its nourishing minerals intact – the result was electric. In a different ballpark than what you might have tried previously, as hard to imagine as that might be for fellow tiramisu lovers. Naturally, I also dodged the highly processed, pre-packaged savoiardi biscuits and went with a delicious homemade genoise sponge cake. Non-bakers, trust me – it sounds fancy, but it’s not difficult. And even if it fails miserably, you’re drowning it in coffee and cream. So, you can proceed with confidence, knowing that there IS no fail on this occasion! Well, I’m sorry to leave you hanging here, folks. I hope my ramblings here have whet your appetite for next week’s recipe. It’s one of my favourite desserts to make at this time of year and well worth the effort.

PAGE 32 11 DECEMBER 2020

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

COME IN FOR A FREE ASSESSMENT COSMETIC DENTISTRY • DENTAL IMPLANTS • SINGLE TOOTH REPLACEMENT • FULL MOUTH REHABILITATION OVER 4-6 IMPLANTS • IMPLANT SUPPORTED DENTURES

BRIGHTEN UP YOUR SMILE THIS CHRISTMAS

WE ACCEPT HOSPITAL VOUCHERS AND VETERAN AFFAIRS

NO GAP

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR EXPERIENCED & GENTLE DENTIST FOR YOUR FAMILY?

Exam and Clean appointment for Private Dental Health Insurance patients. Not with a Health Fund? Just pay $179 Includes FREE Xrays worth $160 Full Comprehensive Exam, Clean and Polish, OPG X-rays, Treatment Planning and Fluoride

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

NOW ACCEPTING % INTEREST ON PAYMENT PLANS 90

COMPREHENSIVE EXAM CLEAN, FLUORIDE & X- RAYS

FOR KIDS ONLY.

COSMETIC

al Lifel

al Lifeline

Bulk Bill Under New Medicare's CDBS. 000 Free Dental Care- Ask us the Details) ental Sealants # Customized Mouth Guards

ford Train Station

w.dentallifeline.com.au

We provide reasons to smile

$1,000 Free Dental Care for children age 2 to 17 Ask us for the Details

BOOK ONLINE

PORCELAIN VENEERS

FREE CONSULTATION

INVISALIGN

Dr. Meena Gambhir

Dr. Namita Mehta

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

GOSFORD - BONDI - HORNSBY

* OPENING SOON IN MAITLAND * Dr. Dolly Soni

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE PAGE 33 11 DECEMBER 2020

Rare blood cancer strikes young father After feeling fatigued and a little exhausted, Andrew Hood of Kincumber went to the doctors to get checked and came out with a diagnosis of a rare type of blood cancer called Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma. The active 32-year-old is a loving husband and devoted father to three young children. Hood has had to stop working to make time for his chemotherapy. Hood’s sister-in-law, Chloe Siv, has started a GoFundMe campaign which she said will go towards living costs and the car trips made to Sydney for the treatment. “Andrew and my sister Amy have been married for over 10

years and have three kids,” Siv said. “This year, Andrew started his own consulting business and was doing pretty well, “He was feeling a little fatigued, which he put down to stress. “But when he started having abdominal pains, he went and got it checked. “After a few tests, the doctors said something wasn’t right, and that was how he got his diagnosis.” Siv said one out of every million cancer diagnoses is Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma. “There is no known cause,” Siv said. “Andrew is healthy, fit, and very active, and they really take

Andrew Hood with his wife Amy and three children

care of themselves. “It has been an absolute shock. “He is definitely staying

positive and trying to keep things as normal and consistent for the kids as possible. “His middle child has quite

severe autism, completely non-verbal, and goes to Aspect Central Coast School in Terrigal. “He has quite severe additional needs with lots of therapies required, so they are just trying to keep things particularly normal for him to help him stay in his routine. “Chemotherapy is every week for as long as his body can take it. “Because the cancer is so rare, all the doctors can say is wait and see. “The unknown is stressful, but it is also hopeful. “It does not need to be a negative; ‘wait and see’ can be really positive. “I started the GoFundMe page because my brother-in-law won’t be able to work and he is the sole income earner of the

family. “It is really important for all of us to take that financial pressure off him so he can focus on getting better. “I just wanted to provide some practical help. “I would love to be able to help them stay in their house and pay their mortgage. “Andrew is the best dad you will ever meet. “He is hands-on, so involved, funny, and will play with his kids for hours, that is one reason why we all love him.” The GoFundMe campaign has already reached over $22,300. To donate, go to www. gofundme.com/f/andrewamp-amy-hood/donate# Jacinta Counihan

Killcare local praises revolutionary heart surgery Killcare resident Ann Chitty has praised revolutionary medical technology which repaired her damaged heart and allowed her to “walk up hills again without puffing”. Chitty was diagnosed with mitral regurgitation three years ago which caused her to suffer from constant breathlessness and feeling “very tired”. Mitral regurgitation is a common yet little-known heart condition which affects over 10,000 Australian adults each year. It occurs when the heart’s mitral valve does not close properly, leading to blood flowing back into the lungs.

The condition can cause debilitating symptoms with day-to-day activities becoming extremely difficult and can lead to heart failure or be fatal if left untreated. Chitty was referred to Dr Dennis Wang, an interventional cardiologist at Sydney Adventist Hospital, for treatment. After undergoing a Transcatheter Mitral Valve repair (TMVr) procedure with Abbott’s MitraClip, she was able to get back to her normal life quickly. TMVr is a minimally invasive procedure where a miniature clothes-peg-like clip, called MitraClip, is inserted into the heart through the groin to pinch the leaky mitral valve.

Ann Chitty with her husband Mike and their four children.

“They said you’ll only be in hospital maybe one, two days.”

“I couldn’t believe it,” Chitty said.

She was surprised to find no major scars following the noninvasive procedure. “It’s perfect now.” The lack of Prostheses List funding for MitraClip and Medicare funding for TMVr means many Australians are likely to miss the opportunity for the treatment, with the alternative option being openheart surgery to replace the damaged heart valve, which comes with weeks of hospitalisation, rehabilitation and possible complications for patients. Wang is hoping Federal Minister for Health, Greg Hunt, will consider reimbursing the technology and procedure to allow more Australians to

access this treatment option. “If the MitraClip were funded tomorrow, it would mean one less concern, and we could focus on treating the patient rather than having to balance off a patient’s medical needs versus the financial constraints,” he said. “It would lift a big weight off our shoulders. “Before MitraClip, we would basically offer patients medical therapy, which doesn’t solve the problem, but relieves symptoms, to try and keep them as functionally active as possible for as long as possible. Terry Collins

Retail Showroom CENTRAL COAST 2/12 Aston Rd

Erina NSW 2250 Ph: 02 4367 5751

Visit us from

Monday to Friday: 8:30am - 4:30pm

Come in and see our friendly staff for in-home or in-store trials today!

Some of our other ranges to improve quality of life Pride Rangerider Heavy Duty Outdoor Scooter

SALE

PRIC

0 $7V8E $02190 SA

Pride Pathrider 130XL Pursuit Scooter

SALE

PRIC

0 $3V6E 0 $628 SA

Bring this voucher in-store to validate these prices! Come in and Check Out Our Large Range of Mobility Scooters!

Electric Recline Chairs

EQUIPMENT - SALES - HIRE

Adjustable Beds

www.aidacare.com.au

PAGE 34 11 DECEMBER 2020 HEALTH & LIFETSYLE

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

Stride4Stroke exceeds all expectations Kincumber resident Jill Longhurst walked 71km and raised almost $1,000 last month in the Stroke foundation’s Stride4Stroke challenge. With an original goal of $200, Longhurst was ecstatic at her final result, which helped contribute to the $400,000 raised by this year’s appeal. “I feel proud to know that my contribution helped in achieving such a wonderful total,” she said. “I had no idea how far I could walk or how much I might be able to raise – I clearly underestimated on both scores. “My target of 50km of walking was well short of my final tally of 71km. “My fundraising goal was

$200 which I reached within the first week [but] donations continued to come in through family and friends sharing my posts with their contacts and I finished with a tally of just under $1000. “Being a stroke survivor, this cause definitely struck a chord with me. “I was one of the ‘lucky’ ones – if having a stroke can be lucky – mine was minor but nonetheless not something for which I or my family were prepared. “Greater understanding of the causes along with better ways to manage the mental and physical needs of a stroke sufferer and their carers can only come through more research. “Unfortunately, I suffer from

Jill Longhurst of Kincumber has raised almost $1000 for the Stroke Foundation

many chronic conditions with little control over how these are managed. “I can, however, control two aspects – diet and exercise.

“Being able to contribute to the Stroke Foundation while undertaking my (almost) daily walk really helped to motivate me to get out and spread the

word. Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Sharon McGowan, said this year’s Stride4Stroke had exceeded expectations. “A record 1,484 people took part in the campaign,” she said. Stroke4Stroke encouraged participants to set an activity goal for the month of November, get moving to reduce their own stroke risk and raise funds in support of Stroke Foundation. “I have been astounded by the extraordinary passion, dedication and generosity people have displayed especially as we navigate life during a pandemic. “This year has been a challenge for all of us, and it has been wonderful to see

people connect virtually and creatively throughout this campaign.” McGowan said the Foundation hoped to raise $180,000 but had actually raised $420,000. “This was an incredible effort and one we are truly grateful for,” she said. “Every dollar raised will have an enormous impact. “It will go towards supporting vital Stroke Foundation programs like our free telephone advice service StrokeLine (1800 787 653) and EnableMe, online support services which help survivors and their families transition to life back home after stroke and throughout the recovery journey.” Terry Collins

Walk and talk your way to a healthier heart Three times each week, the dedicated members of the Niagara Park Walk and Talk Heart Foundation walking group take to the streets for their regular exercise.

Members of the Niagara Park Walk and Talk group in action

The aptly named organiser, Di Walker, said she had been involved with the group for 16 years and the walks regularly attracted a good roll-up. “Many of our walkers are retired, some have experienced heart attacks or strokes and some just come for the exercise and social aspect,” she said. “We usually have a coffee after our walks and it’s a great way to meet people while

keeping healthy at the same time. “Sometimes when you are retired it can be hard to meet new people, especially if you move to a new area and this is the perfect way.” The Niagara Park group is one of many which walk regularly around the Central Coast in the interests of preserving heart health. Latest figures from the Heart Foundation reveal that the Central Coast region, incorporating Lake Macquarie, ranks 17th out of 28 NSW regions for heart attack hospital admissions and is 3 per cent

above the NSW state average. The Coast ranks 18th in terms deaths from coronary heart disease and 15th for hospitalisations from coronary heart disease. In terms of heart disease risk factors, around 35 per cent of adults living in the Central Coast region are obese; about 17 per cent smoke; and around 66 per cent are not physically active enough for good health. On a brighter note, the region has one of the state’s lowest rates of high blood pressure (second lowest after Sydney’s Sutherland region). It is the only non-metro region

in the best 10 regions for this risk factor. But even so, around one in five adults living in the region have elevated blood pressure, which is a key risk factor for heart disease. The statistics are part of the latest update to the Heart Foundation’s Australian Heart Maps. This is an online tool which allows users to look at data for heart disease deaths, hospitalisations and risk factors at a national, state, regional and LGA level. Terry Collins

Builder selected tor Elsie’s Retreat Project The Central Coast community’s dream of a dedicated in-patient palliative care unit is one step closer, with a tender awarded for the construction and refurbishment works of the Elsie’s Retreat Project. Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal, Adam Crouch, said

Tuggerah-based Collaborative Construction Solutions would undertake the design and works. “Gosford Hospital’s former maternity ward will be transformed into the new 10bed palliative care unit, providing a home-away-fromhome feel for patients and their families,” Crouch said. “This dedicated unit will

enable inpatient support for palliative patients requiring acute symptom management who are then able to return home, as well as those patients who cannot be cared for at home in the last days of life. “Once the unit becomes operational in 2021, Central Coast residents will for the first time ever have a choice between receiving palliative

Newspapers

care at-home or in a hospital setting. “Locating this unit within Gosford Hospital means patients can also benefit from access to specialist medical, nursing and allied health services as well as diagnostic testing.” Crouch said the delivery of the palliative care unit had been a labour of love for the

Elsie’s Retreat Project Committee. “I want to pay tribute to Margaret Pearce, Oana McBride, Judy Mausley and Peter Hurley as well as the entire team of volunteers for raising a total of $300,000, which we hope can be matched by an additional contribution of $140,000 by Lion’s Club International,” he said.

“This incredible amount of funding will purchase equipment, fittings and furniture to support the creation of a ‘home-like’ environment.” The works are expected to be complete in early 2021. Source: Media release, Dec 3 Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch

Central Coast

CCN

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

SCIENCE & EDUCATION

PAGE 35 11 DECEMBER 2020

1,000 scholarships on offer for disadvantaged students Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch is encouraging Central Coast young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to apply for scholarships now available for students enrolled in education or training in 2021. Tesch said 1,000 scholarships would be up for grabs, with successful applicants receiving $1,000 to help with school expenses and secondary support services. Eligible students include those studying in year 10, 11 or 12 at a NSW high school or equivalent at TAFE or on a school based apprenticeship program, who are either a social housing client or living in out-of-home-care. The support can be used for primary education services, such as textbooks, excursions, printers, laptops, smart phones,

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch with scholarships co-ordinator Zoe Goddard and a prospective applicant

tutoring and stationery as well as secondary services including transport costs and medical support. “As a former public school teacher I witnessed the incredible talent of our youth and I saw students from all

backgrounds thrive in an accessible learning environment,” Tesch said. “This scholarship program will enable bright kids to continue to excel and reach their goals with crucial funding to support their ambitions and

ease some of the financial load from their shoulders. “We all know schooling can get expensive, especially in the senior years of study, and any money towards these costs is a step in the right direction from the NSW Government.

“The rising cost of education has pushed many disadvantaged children into the background but they deserve the same opportunities as other students so they can work their way to a better future for themselves and their

future families. “We know implementing supports like this early benefits the future of our youth and I really encourage all students who are eligible take up this opportunity. “I take my hat off to all the students who continue to push themselves when it feels like the odds are against them. “I hope this scholarship ignites some hope in our disadvantaged youth and gives them that extra boost in their final years of study.” Applications are now open and close on February 19, 2021. Details at https://www.facs. nsw.gov.au/families/supportprograms/all-families/dcjscholarships. Source: Media release, Dec 2 Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch

Sharlotte honoured in Parliament Year Six Wyoming Public School student, Sharlotte Fisher, has been recognised in Federal Parliament for her generosity, caring nature, and kindness to others, receiving a Dobell School Award from MP Emma McBride. During COVID, Sharlotte created multiple paper poppies, magnets, cards, and artworks to give to the elderly, children in hospital, and the local community. Her mother, Melissa Fisher, said she suggested the initiative of painting poppies to be placed at the front of their house for Anzac Day after noticing Sharlotte was getting into painting. “She and her sister started to paint some different paper

poppies and put them on kebab sticks,: she said. “They put them out the front with a sign saying ‘for free’. “When they completed them, they had a lot left, so Sharlotte decided she could give them to the elderly. “We dropped some into Henry Kendall Gardens, and Sharlotte ran them into the office which they were really happy about. “She got some feedback and cards over the holidays with some of the ladies and men replying saying how happy they were. “They put the poppies out the front with some music early in the morning for Anzac Day as they were not able to go anywhere for the remembrance. “She also posted off some artwork and letters to the

Chamberlain Gardens Aged Care, and she wrote some letters to go with them as well. “She wrote how she was hoping they were okay and that she knew what it was like, as her own nan is in a nursing home in Parkes. “Sharlotte also sent some artwork to (Member for Gosford) Liesl Tesch give out to the nursing homes, which she received a thank you letter for. “She also made sock puppets for the children at Gosford Hospital.” Member for Dobell Emma McBride introduced the Dobell School Awards in 2017 to recognise outstanding service to the community by students. Each school in the Dobell electorate is invited to nominate a student, and over 20 students

Kariong Quality

received the award in 2017. Over 30 students received the award in 2019. Numbers were down for 2020 due to the pressure schools and their staff would have been under to organise presentation ceremonies. Jacinta Counihan

Sharlotte Fisher has received a Dobell School Award

FREE digital subscriptions to

Newspapers Central Coast

CCN

Simply tell us which paper you want to receive and we’ll send a link to your email address every publication day. COMMUNITY

COAST COMMUNITY

Come in and see Jake Forbes and team for all your award winning sausages and quality meat.

No paywall Complete newspaper available direct to you at no charge Comprehensive local news on line

Mon - Fri 6.30am - 6.30pm - Sat - Sun 6.00am - 4pm 4340 1064 - 1 Arunta Ave. Kariong

email: manager@centralcoastnews.net to be added to the list

Try some of our new sausage varieties available every week

PAGE 36 11 DECEMBER 2020 CLASSIFIEDS

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

CLEANING

TRADE SERVICES

ANTENNAS

BUILDERS

A Better Picture

Totally Building & Maintenance

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

Building Repairs & Maintenance Basic Carpentry, Bricklaying, Paving and Concreting. No Job too small Fully Insured 25 years experience

Phone John 0417 285 585

LicNo#98098R

Antenna & Digital

CARPENTRY

Asbestos Removal

ALL GENERAL CARPENTRY

Fully licensed and insured asbestos removals from houses, garages, sheds, bathrooms etc. Ph: Tom 0422 653 794 or 4393 9890 Safe Work NSW Lic. AD212564

BRICK LAYING

Brick Laying & Concreting All Aspects of both Trades 40 yrs Exp fully insured Phone Greg

Stairs, pergolas, verandas, decks etc. Available now Call Michael Bennett Ph: 0407 281 046 Lic. 28352c

MGL CARPENTRY

Carpenter & Joiner 40yrs Experience Decks, Pergolas, Doors, Windows etc

Fully Insured - Call Gary

0458 130 829 0456 895 943 4341 1346 Lic 124312c

Back2Basics APT HANDYMAN

Cleaning Company

Domestic & commercial 15 years experience in pressure and window cleaning and outdoor maintenance Call Graham: 0451 085 734

ELECTRICIAN

ASBESTOS

NO LABOUR & MATERIALS OVER $5000

CLASSIFIEDS ADVERTISING RATES Classified advertising is the cheapest form of newspaper advertising. This newspaper is also published on line on the publication date, and is also 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.coastcommunitynews.com.au Central Coast Newspapers’ classified 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 20,000 copies of this newspaper are printed and distributed every week.

Personal and Not For Profit Organisations

As Central Coast Newspapers are community newspapers, the cost of advertising not for profit organisations’ events is subsidised. This makes them the same rate as non business advertisements. A mono 5cm advertisement only costs $33. Each additional cm costs $6.60 as does colour, and/or a photograph or a logo. Private advertisements need to be paid for at the time of booking.

Business and In Memoriam rates

The minimum size of 5cm X a single column only costs $50 + GST in mono and an extra $10 + GST for colour, a logo or a photograph. Classified advertisements in all 3 papers are only $40+GST each. Most businesses choose to advertise on an ongoing basis and discounts apply for multiple bookings, if they are paid for in full, in advance. Having a prepaid classified advertisement run for 6 editions only costs $250 + GST and $50 + GST more for colour. For 12 editions, it is $495 + GST and $100+ GST more for colour. For 24 editions, it is only $950 + GST and $200 + GST for colour, a saving of $290 + GST. Artwork is free and advertisers are encouraged to change their advertisements frequently

PAINTER

HANDYMAN

SERVICES

all home repairs including, painting, gutter cleaning + more SERVICING THE CENTRAL COAST

Ph: 0410 576 613 lic no. 325796c

HAIRDRESSER

YOUR LOCAL ELECTRICIAN

SammyBaillie

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

Balayage starting from $150*

Same day service Guaranteed

No job too small. Seniors Discount. Lic number 265652C

4308 6771

homestudio

Specialising in Balayage and Hair Extensions

find us on instagram sammybaillie1301@hotmail.com *terms and conditions apply

GUTTERING

All types of rubbish, including asbestos, removed.

SAME DAY SERVICE ALL ELECTRICAL WORK Poles, Aerials & Mains Phone Data & TV Switchboard Upgrades Oven Stove & Hot Water NO CALL OUT FEE Credit Cards Welcome

4322 8980 Lic 528150c

CENTRAL COAST ELECTRICAL AND HANDYMAN SERVICES Maintenance and Servicing, domestic and commercial • Hot water • Repairs • Lights • Fans • Switchboards • Small handyman jobs

www.ccehs.com.au 0424 831 522

GARDENING

Fully licensed and insured. Also will demolish sheds, garages, small buildings, bathrooms etc.

Blake’s Demolition & Rubbish Removal

Ph: 0431 866 292

LANDSCAPING

PEST CONTROL

A&R GARDENING

ACCESS PEST CONTROL

All types of gardens

Landscaping, Rubbish removal. Turf laying. Land & yard clearing. Hedge Trimming. High Pressure Cleaning inc Gutters, Tree services. Prompt Service - Fully insured. FREE QUOTE - Seven Days

0412 345 775

ALL PESTS, ALL AREAS, TERMITE SPECIALISTS (PENSIONER DISCOUNTS) LIC# 5092837

PH # 02 8605 6637 WILL BEAT ANY

COMPETITORS QUOTE

LAWNMOWING

A&R GARDENING

MOWING - EDGING WHIPPER SNIPPING

Landscaping, Rubbish removal. Turf laying. Land & yard clearing. Hedge Trimming. High Pressure Cleaning inc Gutters, Tree services. Prompt Service - Fully insured. FREE QUOTE - Seven Days

7 DAYS A WEEK

All types of gardens

0412 345 775

ONE OFF TIDY UP OR REGULAR MAINTENANCE

Ph: 0413 676 364

Colour My World

Lic: AD205997

TILING

Wall & Floor Tiling Property Maintenance 0439 589 426

homes2nv@gmail.com

ADULT SERVICES

PRETTY WOMEN 21-30 yo

FULLY INSURED CALL FOR A FREE QUOTE

0406 132 669 easilawns@hotmail.com

PAINTER

GARDENING BUCELLO’S LANDSCAPING Painting Services

General handyman work High Pressure Cleaning Est. 30 years Free quotes

RUBBISH REMOVAL

•R esidential and Commercial • Interior and Exterior • New Work and Repaints

Free Quotes

All work guaranteed Lic346302C

0410 404 664

REMOVALS

Allways Moving Removals House, office units No job too big or too small Affordable rates Call for free quote 0497 800 074 0421 084 650

Open 24/7 Full service

Pretty Asian Ladies

Passionate Friendly Service Escorts Available Call 0477 070 023

386 The Entrance Rd

LONG JETTY

4333 5800

EFTPOS • Parking at rear www.prettywomen.biz

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

SCIENCE & EDUCATION

PAGE 37 11 DECEMBER 2020

Online library fun Central Coast library events can now be viewed online, offering remote access to the Library Online speaker series. A Council spokesperson said the events have been put online to allow the library to continue to deliver programs while numbers at the branches are capped to adhere to social distancing requirements. “Due to strict customer limits in branch, popular Library events and programs could not continue as they were preCOVID; however, staff got creative during lockdown and developed a range of interactive and pre-recorded online events for all ages and interests,” the spokesperson said. “Since May libraries have hosted over 40 Library online speaker events, both live and pre-recorded, covering a diverse range of topics including children, youth,

LGBTQ+, debut and local authors, NSW Health Mental Health Month presentations, recycling and waste talks, family and local history

programs as well as tabletop gaming, bookclubs and school holiday entertainment. “One of the most popular

online programs is the online Storytime sessions, which are available through Council’s Coast Connect YouTube channel and Children @ your

library Facebook group. “With these videos receiving thousands of views, this provided an opportunity to

engage with families through story to educate them about safety with videos on flood, bushfire, COVID and more explained in an age-appropriate way for young children with our Learning Community Team. “Council’s Library Service are also participating in the Public Library Network (PLN) Speaker program. “This collaboration between various NSW public libraries has brought high profile authors to a state-wide audience. “Due to the popularity of the online offerings, libraries will be looking to incorporate more digital options into their programs even once restrictions are completely lifted, most likely during the cold winter months. To find out about events go to centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/ libraryevents. Jacinta Counihan

Surf fun day teaches valuable lessons Gosford East Public-School students have enjoyed some time at the beach as part of Surf Life Saving Central Coast’s (SLSCC) Surf Fun Day program. The program teaches kids

PUBLIC NOTICE

Car Boot Sale Woy Woy Peninsula Lions Club

CANCELLED

UNTIL JAN 31 2021 due to current Coronavirus health concerns ENQ 0478 959 895

essential surf awareness and safety skills, while showing them how to enjoy the beach with confidence via participation in various beach and water activities. The Stage Three teacher who helped to organise the day for children in stages three to six said the kids enjoyed every part of the experience. “They loved it and said it was

WANTED

BOATS WANTED New or old, any condition we pick up, paid cash, any size. Sell your boat today Phone John

the best excursion ever,” she said. “The kids had a great time. “The people who ran it were so great, and it was very well organised. “The day started off with some fitness activities on the beach, and then there was a range of obstacle courses. “The kids were then taught some of the skills of rescuing people. “Learning these skills is so essential for all kids living on the Central Coast.” The Surf Fun Day program has been implemented into the curriculum of all Central Coast schools since 1999 and is run on the beaches of Terrigal, Toowoon Bay and Umina during Terms one and four. Jacinta Counihan

0402 465 655

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

TIDE CHART

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

0601 1.64 1216 0.48 1816 1.52

0517 0.55 1148 1.86 1838 0.32

FRI

Times and Heights(m) of high and low waters

0338 0.43 0024 0.34 0112 0.34 0200 0.36 0249 0.39 0428 0.49 0652 1.77 0743 1.89 0833 1.97 0923 2.01 1013 2.01 1100 1.95 SAT 1320 0.37 SUN 1418 0.27 MON 1514 0.20 TUE 1606 0.18 WED 1658 0.20 THU 1748 0.25 1916 1.51 2014 1.49 2110 1.46 2204 1.42 2257 1.38 2348 1.34 0040 1.30 0131 1.27 0224 1.27 0318 1.29 0413 1.33 0505 1.40 1004 0.78 0607 0.61 0700 0.68 0755 0.73 0857 0.77 1114 0.75 SAT 1235 1.74 SUN 1322 1.62 MON 1411 1.49 TUE 1504 1.39 WED 1603 1.32 THU 1705 1.28 1927 0.41 2015 0.48 2101 0.53 2147 0.56 2233 0.57 2318 0.57

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

PAGE 38 11 DECEMBER 2020

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

NOT FOR PROFIT ORGANISATIONS

CCN ARTS & CULTURE CENTRAL COAST ART SOCIETY

Lectures, demonstrations and discussion. Weekly paint-outs enquiries Tuesday. Phone: 0428 439 180 Workshops: 1st and 3rd Wednesdays 9.30 am to 12.30 pm, at Gosford Regional Gallery & Art Centre. Phone: 0409 666 709 Social Meetings 1.30 pm on 4th Wednesday for demonstration 4325 1420

publicity@artcentralcoast.asn.au

CENTRAL COAST POETS INC

Thurs of the month at The Entrance Community Centre 4333 8387 www.tlas.org.au president@tlas.org.au

COMMUNITY GROUPS ABC - “The Friends”

Safeguard ABC’s independence, funding, & standards. Meetings through the year & social mornings Well-known guest speakers 0400 213 514 www.fabcnsw.org.au

CENTRAL COAST CARAVANNERS

3rd Sun - Jan to Nov Trips Away, Social Outings, friendship with like minded folk Geoff 0447 882 150

www.ccmdc.org.au

TERRIGAL WAMBERAL RSL SUB-BRANCH

Pension and welfare officers available to assist with DVA compensation claims and benefits Breakers Country Club Wed & Fri 10am – Midday Meet 2nd Sat 10am 4384 2661

Terrigal-WamberalSB@rslnsw. org.au.

U3A CENTRAL COAST

Enjoy a diverse range of courses and activities for seniors. Keep your mind active and make new friends. 0408 704 701

www.centralcoast.u3anet.org.au Would you like to read, write and share your poetry. VOLUNTEERING We hold workshops and create anthologies. CENTRAL COAST COMMUNITY LEGAL We meet the second Saturday Refer potential volunteers to CENTRE each month. community organisations & Not for profit service providing Wyoming Memorial Community provide support to them. free legal advice Hall. Contact us by email Training to volunteers and Mon - Fri 9am to 5pm info@centralcoastpoets.com.au managers of volunteers Info 4353 4988 or you may ring Clive sessions held regularly. contact@centralcoastclc.org.au 0419120347 4329 7122

HANDWEAVERS, SPINNERS AND TEXTILE ARTS GUILD

LEARN TO DANCE

recruit@volcc.org.au

Social ballroom dancing for all COMMUNITY CENTRES ages, all you need is a desire to learn and dance, no partner required. GOSFORD 50+ LEISURE Spinning and weaving, patchwork and quilting, felting meet every Wed -15 Lorraine AND LEARNING CENTRE Ave Berkeley Vale, 2:00pm and other fibre and fabric Mon-Fri Anne - 0409 938 345 crafts, community quilting bees Chess, darts, handicraft, indoor anneglazier@y7mail.com - Day and Night Groups bowls, knitting, line dancing, 4325 4743 origami, painting, pencil CENTRAL COAST MARINE www.cottagecrafts.net.au drawing, scrabble, DISCOVERY CENTRE scrapbooking, sit & sew, table The revamped CCMDC is open. tennis, Ukulele TUGGERAH LAKES Schools and Group bookings 4304 7065 ART SOCIETY welcome by appointment. Join us for the fun and Building has special needs GOSFORD-NARARA enjoyment of art! access and toilets Attend a weekly art group with NEIGHBOURHOOD Open 7 days 9am – 3pm. mentors, exhibitions, CENTRE Terrigal. workshops and a monthly School Holiday activities, 4385 5027 members meeting with guests playgroup, multicultural ccmdc@bigpond.com and prizes, held on the 4th

CCN

programs, community activities Rooms for Hire 4329 4477 admin@gnnc.com.au

HEALTH GROUPS ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

0434 426 486

robyncameron@y7mail.com

PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP Last Fri 9.30am Terrigal Uniting Church 380 Terrigal Dr, Terrigal 4367 9600

4325 2270

www.henrykendallcottage.org.au Brisbane Water Historical Society

with a great social program, guest speakers and optional FELLOWSHIP OF bistro lunches. Google our name for our fully informative FIRST FLEETERS newsletter. Meet 10am, 3rd For anyone interested in early Mon each month at Avoca history. Beach Bowling Club. Don’t need to be a First Fleeter. avocaprobus@gmail.com Point Clare Community Hall 2nd Sat 10:30am 4392 1926 4311 6254

www.pcfa.org.au - Someone cares. Thurs - 12.30pm, Progress Hall Henry Parry & Wells MEALS ON WHEELS Street East Gosford Delicious meals delivered free Join us for a midday meal Help with shopping and AL - ANON FAMILY cooking classes COASTAL A CAPPELLA GROUPS HEALTH 4363 7111 Award winning women’s We offer hope and friendship a cappella chorus. for people affected by Music education provided. someone else’s drinking. PENINSULA LIGHTHOUSE Rehearsals Tuesday 7pm @ Al-anon family groups Mobile counselling service Red Tree Theatre Tuggerah. meet weekly, please contact supporting ALL people Performance opportunities. 1300 252 666 suffering from Domestic Hire us for your next event. al-anon.org.au Violence 0412 948 450 Counselling services coastalacappella@gmail.com BETTER HEARING Mon, Ettalong Baptist Church, 0417 472 374 AUSTRALIA POLITICAL PARTIES penlighthouse@gmail.com Hearing loss management www.peninsulalighthouse.info/ Support and educational groups providing practical CENTRAL COAST GREENS S.A experience and confidence Local, state wide, national and Is Internet porn destroying your 4321 0275 international issues and life. campaigns We may be able to help. Council and parliamentary CENTRAL COAST We are a 12 step fellowship representation ASBESTOS DISEASES like AA. 3rd Thur SUPPORT GROUP Meets every Sat at 7pm on the centralcoast.nsw.greens.org.au Support for those suffering Central Coast centralcoastgreens@gmail.com with asbestos diseases and Contact for further details others interested in asbestos LABOR PARTY 0473 631 439 issues. You are not alone, meet newcastlesagroup@gmail.com OURIMBAH/ NARARA with others who can share their experiences. Bring a BRANCH 4323 3890 family member or friend. Discussion/action community 1pm at Ourimbah RSL on forth Issues – 3 levels of HENRY KENDALL Wed of each month. Government COTTAGE & Maree 0419 418 190 Function Room, Grange Hotel, Wyoming HISTORICAL MUSEUM 7.30pm 1st. Monday Visit our c1838 Cottage & DYING WITH DIGNITY 0410 309 494 Museum with exhibits of early Campaigning to give those Kyle.macgregor@hotmail.com settlers. School and group suffering unrelievable terminal bookings. Members & or incurable illness the choice volunteers welcome. Open to receive legal medical PROBUS CLUBS Wed/Sat/Sun 10.30am assistance to die. 2:30pm. West Gosford Quarterly mtgs, Erina Fair.

MUSIC

HISTORY GROUPS

AVOCA BEACH PROBUS CLUB

SERVICE GROUPS

LIONS CLUB OF WOY WOY Make new friends & have fun while serving your community Everglades Country Club 3rd Monday of each month 0478 959 895

WOMEN’S GROUPS WOMEN’S HEALTH CENTRES

Counselling, 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 & girls through awareness, advocacy & action 2nd Thur 7 pm Breakers Country Club, Dover Rd, Wamberal sibrisbanewater@siswp.org www.siswp.org

SPORT DOYALSON WYEE SOCCER CLUB

Football club for the local community. Juniors from under 5 to senior teams. Kerry 0410 045 981 president@doylowolves.com.au

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

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

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

SPORT PAGE 39 11 DECEMBER 2020

Wyong, Northern Power and Lisarow-Ourimbah White claimed the points in Round 5 CRICKET Wyong, Northern Power and Lisarow-Ourimbah White claimed the points in Round 5 of Central Coast Cricket Association’s Women’s A Grade Competition. Lisarow-Ourimbah White put in a professional batting display, defeating KincumberAvoca at Heazlett Park. The Griffins batted first and finished their 20 overs 5-87. Veronica Brown top scored with 31, while Sarah Perkins made 22. Jess Holmes was the pick of the Magpie bowlers with 2-19. The Magpies chased down

the runs in the ninth over, with Holmes finishing 44 and Kelly Dearing 25. Perkins took the only wicket for the Griffins. At Sohier Park, Northern Power made it back to back wins, defeating LisarowOurimbah Black. The Magpies batted first and made 5-78 from the 20 overs, with Danielle Thorp leading the way with 19. Kerry Seymour was excellent with the ball taking 3-10 from her four overs. The Power chased down the runs in the ninth over with Karen Mander making a quick fire 46.

In the final game, Wyong made it five from five, with victory against TerrigalMatcham at Don Small Oval. The Bellbirds made 5-109 batting first from their 20 overs, with skipper, Ella Merritt, topscoring with 31, while Tara French 25 and Michelle McLoughlin 22, also made handy contributions. Unfortunately, for them it was not enough, with Wyong chasing down the target for the loss of three wickets. Round 6 gets underway from December 12. Dilon Luke Northern Power posted a solid win in their Round 5 fixture ADVERTISEMENT

Community Environment Network WILDPLANT COMMUNITY NURSERY

Metamorphosis

LAST MINUTE CHRISTMAS SHOPPING:

Metamorphosis is a biological process by which an animal completely changes its form or structure. This is often accompanied by a change of nutrition source or behaviour.

Extended Hours Wildplant Community Nursery If you’re stuck for last minute Christmas shopping ideas, visit our Wildplant Community Nursery between 10am and 2pm on Tuesday, 15 December, Wednesday, 16 December or Thursday, 17 December and buy some native plants.

CEN Office, Brush Rd, Ourimbah Native plants are a great Christmas gift idea. They are inexpensive (starting at $3), help conquer climate change, create habitat for local birds and animals and encourage outdoor activity.

We have a range of local native plants available including ground covers and herbs, shrubs and trees, bush food, bird attracting, native bee attracting, frog friendly and screen plants. Cash and EFTPOS accepted.

COSS CONNECTIONS - GUIDED RIDGE TO RAINFOREST BOTANICAL WALK AND TALK Please join us for a guided botanical walk in beautiful Strickland State Forest with Alf Britton, Ecologist and ‘Friend of Strickland’. Improve your native plant identification skills with like-minded people, followed by a scrumptious breakfast in the picnic area. Ridge to Rainforest Track: 2.1 km one way, medium grade (a gentle 1hr 30 min, down hill walk) Starting near the entry road to

Banksia Picnic area, the track gradually descends through heath woodland, dry forest types along the ridge into tall, moist forest and gully rainforest along the creek. Mossy rocks, statuesque trees and a planted grove of Hoop Pine are featured along the track, which was hand built over a 10 year period by the “Friends of Strickland”.

When: Tuesday, 15th December Time: 7.30 - 10.30 am Where: Banksia Picnic area Strickland Forest Rd (off mangrove Rd), Narara *Includes FREE Breakfast This project has been assisted by the New South Wales Government through its Environmental Trust, and is supported by Central Coast Council and Greater Sydney Local Land Services.

COMING UP IN JANUARY Keep any eye on the CEN Calendar during the holidays so you don’t miss out on the great events we have planned for January. BREAKFAST WITH THE BIRDS TWO WATERWATCH EVENTS: MARINE DEBRIS WORKSHOP AT TERRIGAL LAGOON

And TUGGERAH LAKES FROG SPOTLIGHT And FRIENDS OF COSS BREAKFAST PICNIC Watch our website and facebook page for more information.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2020 BAT AWARD WINNERS Congratulations to the winners of this year’s CEN BAT Awards. Our Chair, Ms Hale Adasal, said this year’s award recipients were all outstanding examples of the effort, determination and patience that it takes to protect our local environment. MOST OUTSTANDING ALL ROUNDER (THE “BAT” AWARD) – GLENYS RAY Glenys is this year’s BAT Award recipient for her extraordinary work campaigning to clean up Springfield Pond Wetland. Her work obtaining grants and work with a cross-section of the community with grace and a positive character to keep Springfield Pond clean and accessible for the community and all living beings inhabiting the area. BEST 12th MAN – COL RUFFELS After retiring from teaching in 2010 Col became a

Volunteer at the Central Coast Marine Discover Centre. He has been involved in many roles there including: training of hundreds of volunteers, managing the rosters, shop and school excursions. Col is instrumental in the craft area of the centre, reusing and recycling materials. ROOKIE OF THE YEAR – WAMBERAL BEACH SAVE OUR SAND The Wamberal Beach Save Our Sand (SOS) campaign

is an excellent example of an organic community campaign around a single issue. Core members, Hugh Naven, Justin Hickey and Felicity Phillips are passionate about retaining the amenity of Wamberal Beach for the whole community. MOST OUTSTANDING COMMUNITY BASED ORGANISATION – EVERGLADES LAGOON WETLANDS BUSHCARE GROUP The Everglades Lagoon Wetlands Bushcare Group have been quietly restoring the nature reserve at the end of Boronia Avenue, Woy Woy for over 24 years. The dedicated group of at least eight members have done a terrific job rehabilitating the bushland, that contains

Endangered Ecological Plant Communities, back to its natural state.

The environment is changing and, hence, the food source for all living beings. Extreme weather will be reflected in our local communities. Just like the animal, our physical structures, our societies and natural environment, are morphing into something new. Unlike the animal process, this community metamorphosis is something we, as a network, can shape. We can determine what this change will look like when we, as a community, stand up to protect our natural wonders, which have been proudly acknowledged as the primary reason we choose to call the Coast home. From our wetlands to our Coastal Open Space System, our forests and national parks, our lagoons and beaches, now is the time to get involved with local groups across the Central Coast who are volunteering to ensure the bush is cared for. Diversity can build resistance to the changing climate. Our community organisations will grow stronger if the pool of people who participate is rich and diverse. The organisation which is most diverse is more likely to come out on top and be strengthened by these changes. We would love for you to join us with our programs and projects. Please get involved and support your local community and environment network so we can meet the challenges we face together. Hale Adasal CEN Chair

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

PAGE 40 11 DECEMBER 2020 SPORT

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

Central Coast Pro Returns to Avoca

Adrian 'Ace' Buchan

SURFING Avoca Beach will play host to a world-class surfing competition next year, with the Vissla Central Coast Pro set to be held from 2 to 7 March 2021. Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said the event is part of the Vissla NSW Pro Surf Series, which also includes events at

Boomerang Beach, Port Stephens and Maroubra. “The Vissla Central Coast Pro is the only QS3000-ranked event in Australia, meaning that competitors can earn more points to qualify for the World Surf League Championship Tour,” Mr Crouch said. “For the past five years, this has been a highlight of the year for our local community, so it’s fantastic to know the event will

be returning in 2021 after what has been a very difficult 2020. “Having hundreds of competitors and spectators descend on Avoca Beach over six days in March not only showcases our beautiful beaches to the world but injects significant tourism dollars into local businesses, accommodation providers, restaurants and retail.” Minister for Jobs, Investment,

Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said the NSW Government was proud to support the Vissla NSW Pro Surf Series through its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW. “This year has taken an enormous toll on local communities so it’s great to host events like the Vissla NSW Pro Surf Series which will not only provide an economic boost, but send a clear message

Photo: Wes Lonergan

to the rest of Australia, and the world, that our State is wide open and ready for visitors to enjoy in a COVID-safe way,” Mr Ayres said. The Vissla Central Coast Pro forms part of the World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series. In 2021, the Qualifying Series will be a regional tour providing Australian surfers with a pathway towards a coveted spot in the WSL Challenger Series, and

ultimately the WSL Championship Tour, where the world’s best surfers compete for the World Title. All events in the Vissla NSW Pro Surf Series will also be webcast through www. worldsurfleague.com and the World Surf League App. Media Release, 10 Dec Adam Crouch, Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast

Stadium restrictions lift in time for NRL, A-League openers Capacity limits at Central Coast Stadium have been increased just in time for the 2021 NRL season. Following the easing of social restrictions, which came into force on December 7, capacity will increase to 9,820, or just under 50 per cent. The announcement coincides with confirmation from the NRL that the stadium has once again been selected to host games during the 2021 premiership season. Stadium Manager, Kath Casey, also confirmed that Central Coast Mariners will continue to use the stadium as their home ground for 13 games, with the first match of the season being played on New Year’s Eve. “We are thrilled the capacity for the stadium has increased

in time for the much-loved New Year’s Eve Mariners match, a calendar highlight and yearly tradition for many Coasties,” Casey said. “Residents have also come to expect a number of NRL matches played locally each season, and I am delighted to announce the Roosters, Manly and Souths will all have home games at the Stadium. “We are proud to be able to deliver these professional sports for locals to enjoy in their own backyard, rather than having to travel to Sydney or Newcastle.” The NRL premiership season kicks off on March 11, with the following games scheduled for Central Coast Stadium: Roosters vs. Sharks, Saturday, April 10, at 7.35pm; Sea Eagles vs. Wests Tigers, Saturday, July

24, at 5.30pm; and Rabbitohs vs. Titans, Saturday , August 14, at 3pm. Council Administrator, Dick Persson, said this is a fantastic coup for the community who have been itching to get out a see some live sports. “The increased capacity is not just a great outcome for spectators, but it will also provide more job opportunities and help create a muchneeded boost to the region’s economy,” Persson said. “As restrictions continue to lift, we hope this will attract more people to the region to discover the unique and diverse range of experiences on offer as I have been able to enjoy.” Source: Media release, Dec 3 Central Coast Council