Coast Community News 274 by Central Coast Newspapers

24 DECEMBER 2020

ISSUE 274

News

The Palm Beach to Ettalong and Wagstaffe Ferry will continue to run on schedule despite calls from some residents for a suspension of the service during the Northern Beaches COVID-19 cluster period. See page 3

Out&About

More signs of COVID on the Coast Central Coast residents are being urged to continue being tested for COVID-19 if they have even the mildest symptoms, with a COVID positive Western Sydney resident having visited Avoca Beach on December 20 and virus fragments having been discovered in a sewage treatment plant at Kincumber. The COVID positive resident, who is in isolation in Western Sydney, visited the Saltwater Bistro at Avoca Beach Hotel on December 20 between 7.40

and 8.30pm. Anyone who attended the bistro at the specified time is considered a casual contact and must get tested and isolate until they receive a negative test result. They should then continue to monitor for COVID-19 symptoms for 14 days and if any symptoms occur, get tested again. The business had a COVIDsafety plan in place and casual contacts are being contacted, with the case having been linked to the Avalon cluster. Meanwhile, the state’s

sewage surveillance program detected traces of the virus at the Kincumber sewage treatment plant, which services multiple suburbs to the south of the region, on December 21. There are currently two confirmed cases in the Central Coast Local Health District, both of whom are being monitored. Central Coast Local Health District has reinforced the importance of physical distancing, good hand hygiene and remaining alert for symptoms, which include a fever, cough, sore/scratchy

throat, shortness of breath, runny nose, and loss of taste or smell. In addition to testing clinics at Gosford and Wyong hospitals, a walk-in COVID-19 testing clinic has been established at the Woy Woy Hospital, next to the kiosk, on Ocean Beach Rd, which will operate every day until Thursday December 24 (inclusive) between 8am and 4.30pm. Residents are reminded that home gatherings are limited to 10 people, with a slight easing of restrictions announced by NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian

allowing children under 12 to be excluded from the number count over Christmas (December 24-26 inclusive). Berejiklian reinforced the fact that this is the maximum number allowed, more than one group of 10 visiting at different times of the day is not permitted. On December 27, restrictions revert to a maximum of 10 persons visiting a home, including children. Source: NSW Health website Media release, Dec 23 Central Coast Local Health District

This latest loan sees Council’s total borrowings for the year reach $200M, with a $50M loan taken out with NAB in May to be repaid over 20 years, and another $50M borrowed from an unnamed financial institution in November – a principle and interest loan with

a fixed five-year term amortised over 15 years. The latest loan was approved at an extraordinary meeting on December 18 and is a fixed threeyear loan amortising over 15 years. Details of the loan were discussed in closed session and remain commercial-inconfidence. A Council spokesperson said the loan will assist Council with a positive budget for the next financial year and long term 10-

year financial plan. Council resolved at the December 18 meeting to authorise Administrator Dick Persson and Acting Chief Executive Officer Rik Hart to execute all documents relating to the facility agreement between Council and the financial institution. The Council also resolved that the report should remain confidential in accordance with section 10A(2)(d)(i) of the Local Government Act as it “contains

commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed, prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it”. The minutes also say that consideration of the matter in open Council would, on balance, be contrary to the public interest as publication of all tendered amounts would discourage potential tenderers from submitting commercial information in future. Meanwhile, Council continues

See page 17

Education

In a competition between 666 schools, the Terrigal Primary School debating team, Terrigal Tigers, have been named runnersup in the NSW Premiers Debating Challenge. See page 35

Sport

Spot us another $100M: Council Central Coast Council has taken out another loan – this time for $100M – as it continues to work through mitigation measures for its cash crisis.

You can experience breathtaking work from four of Australia’s leading surf photographers at Gosford Regional Gallery this summer.

its path to financial recovery and sustainability under its business recovery plan, the spokesperson said. Reductions have been made in the capital works program, sales of assets are underway, an employee savings target has been set and a voluntary redundancy program has commenced, as well as notification to IPART for a special rate variation of 15 per cent. CCN report

Central Coast fishers will soon be bream-ing with excitement, with a Fish Aggregating Device (FAD) recently deployed to ocean waters near Terrigal. 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

24 DECEMBER 2020

CCN

NEWS

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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

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Widely known locally and internationally through his ‘It’s So Natural’ writings, bestselling author Alan Hayes has committed his life to living a sustainable lifestyle and has always encouraged others to do so. Alan is recognised as one of the foremost exponents of the natural lifestyle and he has published more than 38 books on herbs, health and natural alternatives. He continues to share his knowledge in two new books released by publishers Pennyroyal Press. Illustrated in colour, The Concise It’s So Natural books

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are brief and eclectic compilations of the international weekly newspaper column Alan continues to write entitled ‘It’s So Natural’. They include the versatility of herbs in and around the home for health, garden and household pests, cleaners and cosmetics, and many other products and applications that are just as effective as chemicals. For your chance to win one

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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

11 DECEMBER 2020

ISSUE 272

The end of an era for youth services hub

News

16 DECEMBER 2020

ISSUE 219

REAL INDEPENDENT LOCAL WEEKLY NEWS

Rebikes reinvigorated

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.

News

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

Education

CCN

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

News

The bicycle boom was one of the most unexpected impacts of COVID-19, but it’s a welcome surprise for Alison Homestead Men’s Shed members, Kerry Braslin and Ken Johnson.

Kanwal’s Grace Evans has taken out this year’s Dobell Christmas Card competition. See page 17

Continued page 14

Peninsula local Jemma Smith took out the Female Single Ski event in round three of the Envirobank Super Teams Series at Umina Beach on December 5.

Education

See page 17

Education

See story page 39

23 DECEMBER 2020

A new consolidated Central Coast Local Environment Plan (LEP) and Development Control Plan (DCP) will not come into force until the State Government gazettes them, which is not expected until early 2021.

See page 10

Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park, now known as Walkabout Wildlife Sanctuary, will hold a series of art workshops over the summer by award-winning Aboriginal artist, Garry Purchase.

Rescue crews were called out in torrential rain on Sunday, December 20, to rescue a horse stuck in a dam at Warnervale.

See page 17

Santa was even brave enough to take on 35 American alligators as he jumped into the lagoon to feed them snacks but the feisty reptiles chased Santa out as soon as he delivered their presents.

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

A dog boarding, training and breeding business, operating without consent at Palm Grove and strongly opposed by neighbours, was approved behind closed doors by Central Coast Local Planning Panel on Wednesday, December 9. There was no public announcement of the meeting, which ran from 10.05am to 10.14am, nor was it livestreamed online, as Panel meetings usually are. The supplementary meeting, held one day before the Panel’s regular meeting, was to consider a further report to the development application which the Panel requested when it deferred the matter in October. The Panel decided on a 15-month trial period with a maximum 30 dogs, and then the owner, Mr K Lewis, must submit a new development application for approval to continue business at 604 Ourimbah Creek Rd. After the 15-month period,

The unauthorised outdoor dog kennels and evening house

operations must cease until further development consent is given. The owner must also submit a Building Information Certificate application by the end of 2020 in relation to the unauthorised outdoor dog kennels. Another requirement of approval is an independent acoustic assessment in January 2021 to compare operational noise levels to predicted noise levels, as well as identifying any further noise mitigation

measures. The Panel said the Council must prepare a policy on complaints handling and dispute resolution and maintain a complaint register and actions taken. Another approval condition was that the business must appoint a manager who is contactable 24/7, and the manager’s phone number be supplied to adjoining neighbours in order to address an immediate concern regarding use of the

property for dog boarding, training and breeding. In July 2019, Council received complaints about the unlawful use of the 7ha site and about intrusive noise from barking dogs. Council found the business, including the construction of outdoor dog kennels, was operating without development consent and issued noncompliance notices. However, for some time, Lewis continued business until a

Penalty Infringement Notice was issued, which led to Lewis’s development application 97/2020. TheDAreceived45submissions of objection including the absence of development consent, cleaning methods of the dog runs with the possibility of waste washing into Ourimbah Creek, noise impact from dogs barking, concerns for animal welfare, dog breeding not fitting the character of the area, the noise and smell of a large number of dogs driving away wildlife, and no confidence that a set number of dogs would be abided by the owner. The Local Planning Panel’s unanimous decision of approval included that subject to the conditions imposed, the business was not expected to have an adverse social or economic impact.

Education

Volunteers from Warnervale and Wadalba Rural Fire Brigades and Central Coast Rescue Squad were called out just before 9am. The horse had been stuck in the dam overnight and was exhausted after trying to free himself. Crews managed to use large animal rescue slings to assist hauling him out of the water and mud to safety. A local vet was on the scene to give the horse a check over after his ordeal.

Sue Murray See also comment from the community in Forum

Rates could go up by 15 per cent

Rates could rise by 15 per cent Budgewoi Public School students have ended their school year on a colourful high, following the school’s inaugural colour run. See page 34

Sport

God, family and good ole hard work, that’s what’s going to get Tacoma’s Anita FaimasuiBrown to the 2021 Rugby World Cup. See page 38

Puzzles page 23

Peninsula residents could be facing a 15 per cent rate rise next year, following an announcement at the Central Coast Council meeting on December 14. A proposed rate rise of 10 per cent signalled in November has now risen to a proposed 15 per cent. Administrator Dick Persson announced Council would write to the Independent Regularity and Pricing Tribunal (IPART) asking for permission for an increase of 13 per cent plus another two per cent for inflation. Harmonisation of the rates between the former Gosford and Wyong council areas would see Peninsula residents paying about $7 a week more while residents to the north of the region would pay about $3 a week less than they are paying now.

Residents protested a mooted rate rise ahead of the Council meeting on December 14

These are average payments. Persson said further work has been done in forecasting reductions in levels of service to achieve sustainable long term financial plans and repay

the restricted reserves debt. “As a result, it is now apparent that a larger increase needs to be considered in order to maintain a similar level of service,” he said.

The increase, if granted, would be permanent. “In considering a possible rate variation, I have looked at the rate levels for neighbouring councils,” Persson said.

“It is clear from this information that residential rate payers on the Central Coast pay less in rates than neighbouring councils of Lake Macquarie, Newcastle and Cessnock – all of whom currently have special rate variations applying.” Persson said COVID-19 had resulted in a loss of income to Council. “I also note that during Council’s response to COVID-19 steps were taken to protect permanent employees through a program of redeployment,” he said. “I also understand that various fee waivers and reductions were applied during this period for the purpose of assisting and protecting local businesses and community organisations.” Merilyn Vale

CWA of Umina Beach members donated home knitted hot water bottle covers to children in war-affected countries on November 18. See page 35

Sport

It was a historic day for a local cricket club last month when the family of a late player pitched on the field named in his honour. 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

Central Coast residents could be looking at a 15 per cent rate rise next year, with Council Administrator Dick Persson announcing he will apply to the Independent Pricing and Regularity Tribunal (IPART) asking for permission for an increase of 13 per cent plus another two per cent for inflation. This supersedes a rate rise of 10 per cent signalled in November. Persson shared the news with a group of protesters outside Wyong Chambers before heading into the December 14 meeting and made the official announcement. Harmonisation of the rates between the two former council areas would result in the former Gosford area paying about $7 a week more while the former Wyong areas would pay about $3 a week less than they are paying now.

Residents protested a mooted 15 per cent rate rise ahead of Council’s December 14 meeting

These are average payments. Persson said further work has been done forecasting the reductions in the levels of service to achieve sustainable long term financial plans and repay the restricted reserves debt. “As a result, it is now apparent

that a larger increase needs to be considered in order to maintain a similar level of service,” he said. The increase, if granted, would be permanent. “In considering a possible rate variation, I have looked at the rate levels for neighbouring

Councils,” Persson said. “It is clear from this information that residential ratepayers on the Central Coast pay less in rates than (in) neighbouring Council (areas) of Lake Macquarie, Newcastle and Cessnock – all of whom currently have special rate

variations applying.” Lake Macquarie pays 34 per cent more; Newcastle 42 per cent more and Cessnock 13 per cent more than the average rates a Central Coast resident pays. Persson said COVID-19 resulted in a loss of income to Council. “I also note that during Council’s response to COVID-19 steps were taken to protect permanent employees through a program of redeployment,” he said. “I also understand that various fee waivers and reductions were applied during this period for the purpose of assisting and protecting local businesses and community organisations.” Persson said the money Council spent on infrastructure, although a flawed decision, was well spent. Merilyn Vale

Central Coast Sports College Year Nine student, Paige Stanford, has held a sleep out for her peers to highlight the plight of homelessness.

See page 17

Two Central Coast residents are in home isolation while another remains in hotel quarantine in Sydney after all being diagnosed with COVID-19.

See page 40

Puzzles page 22

A free online healthy lifestyle program for older adults living on the Central Coast will return in 2021.

Two Central Coast residents are in COVID-19 home isolation

See page 35

Sport

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

See page 3

Central Coast Local Health District (CCLHD) has confirmed that the two local cases have been linked to the Northern Beaches cluster, with health staff undertaking daily wellness checks with both patients. The CCLHD also confirmed that the resident in hotel quarantine had returned from overseas when they tested positive for the virus and that

their case is not deemed a risk to the Central Coast community. All three patients will remain in isolation until deemed noninfectious by health staff. According to a spokesperson for the CCLHD, one close contact has been identified in relation to the first local case, with the contact residing in the same household as the patient. They are now also in-home isolation and have been tested for COVID-19 as a precaution. The spokesperson said anyone who travelled via the 6.15pm ferry from Palm Beach to Wagstaffe on Wednesday,

December 16, is considered a casual contact of this case and advised that they should monitor themselves for COVID-19 symptoms and get tested immediately should symptoms appear, regardless of the severity. The spokesperson said that all close contacts for the second local case had been contacted and were selfisolating, with the ferry journey the only location identified for casual contacts. There are no other exposure sites identified on the Central Coast. The situation has prompted

CCLHD Chief Executive, Dr Andrew Montague, to remind residents about the importance of COVID testing. “It is important that anyone who gets tested also isolates themselves if they have even the slightest of symptoms,” Dr Montague said. “We are asking people to avoid non-essential travel to the Northern Beaches at this time. “We know many Central Coast residents commute to the Northern Beaches area for work, however, the message is the same for everyone regardless of whether you have

See page 31

been on Northern Beaches. “If you have symptoms, please get tested. “These latest cases serve as an important reminder that we cannot become complacent, COVID-19 is still present, and we must remain alert for symptoms.” Local COVID-19 testing is available at Wyong Hospital Building C (opposite the Health Services Building), open 9am to 5pm, 7 days a week. Bookings are encouraged on 4394 9200, however walk-ins are accepted. Dilon Luke

Out&About

More signs of COVID on the Coast

The Central Coast community has come together to celebrate the life of one of their own.

Education

Source: Central Coast Rescue Squad

Four young mountain-bikers from Killcare, calling themselves the Four Mulleteers, journeyed to Rydal in NSW to take on the best riders in the state last weekend (December 12-13) in the Rocky Trail Jet Black 24-hour Race.

The Palm Beach to Ettalong and Wagstaffe Ferry will continue to run on schedule despite calls from some residents for a suspension of the service during the Northern Beaches COVID-19 cluster period.

See page 3

Out&About

Jemma Smith winning the Female Single Ski

Unauthorised outdoor dog kennels approved in secret

News

Out&About

He has a busy week ahead of him, but Santa Claus managed to find time to pop in to the Australian Reptile Park on December 16 to enjoy cuddles with the animals and hand out some Christmas treats.

ISSUE 274

ISSUE 220

REAL INDEPENDENT LOCAL WEEKLY NEWS

Horse rescued

Cycling enthusiasts who need assistance are now able to jump back on a bike, with the Central Coast Bicycle User Group (CCBUG) re-starting its tandem RidesAssist program.

See page 6

Out&About

A local fire brigade has swapped Santa’s sleigh for a sidecar at its annual threeday Santa run which started on December 10.

24 DECEMBER 2020

ISSUE 273

News

A Santa for all

A house in Umina Beach has brought festive cheer to locals with a spectacular lightshow that is free to all each night of the week.

See page 8

Out&About

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.

ISSUE 004

REAL INDEPENDENT LOCAL WEEKLY NEWS

Smith takes out Single Ski

A letter asking for national leadership on beachfront coastal erosion is being penned by Central Coast Council Administrator, Dick Persson...

See page 3

Out&About

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.

18 DECEMBER 2020 17 DECEMBER 2020

Sport

Central Coast residents are being urged to continue being tested for COVID-19 if they have even the mildest symptoms, with a COVID positive Western Sydney resident having visited Avoca Beach on December 20 and virus fragments having been discovered in a sewage treatment plant at Kincumber. The COVID positive resident, who is in isolation in Western Sydney, visited the Saltwater Bistro at Avoca Beach Hotel on December 20 between 7.40

Central Coast Council has taken out another loan – this time for $100M – as it continues to work through mitigation measures for its cash crisis. MacKillop Catholic College Warnervale student, Jack Albanese, has ended his school year on a high after setting a new national record with Powerlifting Australia, not once, but twice. 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

Spot us another $100M, Council a fixed five-year term amortised over 15 years. The latest loan was approved at an extraordinary meeting on December 18 and is a fixed threeyear loan amortising over 15 years. Details of the loan were discussed in closed session and remain commercial-inconfidence. A Council spokesperson said the loan will assist Council with a positive budget for the next financial year and long term 10-

You can experience breathtaking work from four of Australia’s leading surf photographers at Gosford Regional Gallery this summer. See page 17

Education

In a competition between 666 schools, the Terrigal Primary School debating team, Terrigal Tigers, have been named runnersup in the NSW Premiers Debating Challenge. See page 35

Sport its path to financial recovery and sustainability under its business recovery plan, the spokesperson said. Reductions have been made in the capital works program, sales of assets are underway, an employee savings target has been set and a voluntary redundancy program has commenced, as well as notification to IPART for a special rate variation of 15 per cent. CCN report

Central Coast fishers will soon be bream-ing with excitement, with a Fish Aggregating Device (FAD) recently deployed to ocean waters near Terrigal. 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

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

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PAGE 3

24 DECEMBER 2020

Ferry owner rebuffs calls for closure The Palm Beach to Ettalong and Wagstaffe Ferry will continue to run on schedule despite calls from some residents for a suspension of the service during the Northern Beaches COVID-19 cluster period. The Fantasea ferry service is now owned and managed by the NRMA under an arrangement with Transport for NSW as a public transport service. NRMA media spokesperson Peter Khoury said despite the fact the ferry did carry two Central Coast residents who were later identified to have tested positive to COVID-19, the NRMA was obliged to keep it running as essential public transport. He said only the State Government can cancel the operation of essential transport routes. But with two confirmed COVID cases on the Coast, Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch is encouraging residents to be on high alert and go back to their COVID-safe behaviour. Tesch, who was at Ettalong ferry wharf at 7am on December 18 handing out masks and

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch hands out masks and sanitiser at the Ettalong Ferry wharf on December 18

sanitiser, said complacency is dangerous. “This rapid spread is a timely and serious reminder of how crucial it is for us to keep practicing COVID-safe behaviour – that is wear a mask, keep a safe distance from each other, get tested, wash your hands and stay home if you’re unwell,” she

said. “Complacency is dangerous and we’ve learnt that time and time again this year. “The Central Coast has been fairly lucky so far, however that could change in the blink of an eye, especially with the proximity of the Northern Beaches outbreak.

“While the Government is yet to issue a health alert for the Central Coast, locals know that we visit and get many daytrippers from the Northern Beaches so we need to make sure we are monitoring for symptoms as well, and most importantly stay home if we are waiting for a COVID result.” Tesch said she had spoken to

both Fantasea and NSW Health authorities to ensure our community is as COVID safe as possible. “Northern Beaches residents should be staying at home, and except for essential reasons, there shouldn’t be anyone hopping off the ferry on the Coast side,” she said.

Meanwhile, NSW Labor is demanding the Government take a stronger stance on masks instead of relying on goodwill to contain the growing threat of the Northern Beaches cluster. Acing NSW Labor Leader Yasmin Catley said it’s time the Government made masks mandatory on public transport, in supermarkets and shopping centres and in places of worship. “The Government has repeatedly ignored Labor’s calls to make masks mandatory and is relying on a lot of community goodwill,” she said. “The Government has the power to make public health orders for exactly this reason; with the stroke of a pen the Minister can end any uncertainty.” Shadow Minister for Health, Ryan Park, agreed decisive action is needed. “NSW is on a knife edge,” he said. “Gladys Berejiklian must take decisive action against the spread of COVID-19 in NSW and make masks compulsory.” Terry Collins and David Abrahams

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 4

24 DECEMBER 2020

NEWS

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New Plan of Management for Bouddi Rock climbing and abseiling will be allowed for the first time and mountain biking will be supported as part of the NSW Government’s new Plan of Management for Bouddi National Park.

Rock climbing and abseiling will be allowed in Bouddi National Park as part of a new plan of management

Options for the provision of mountain biking opportunities will be investigated, before the development and implementation of a mountain biking plan in consultation with the community. A walking track to Half Tide Rocks will also be formally recognized under the plan, which Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and

Member for Terrigal, Adam Crouch, says expands options for future uses of the park while protecting its unique biodiversity and heritage. “This is the second plan to have ever been adopted by the NSW Government for Bouddi and replaces the plan which dates back to 1985,” Crouch said. “This long-awaited document sets out 76 actions that will be pursued over a three, five or 10-year time period. “Many things have changed since the original plan was developed 35 years ago, and this new Plan has been updated to reflect the Government’s vision for future visitation,

recreation and conservation of this beautiful part of the Central Coast.” Crouch said the new Plan of Management also balances the conservation of Bouddi’s significant natural and Aboriginal cultural heritage. “Bouddi National Park is home to more than 600 native plant and animal species, over 70 significant Aboriginal cultural sites and one of Australia’s first marine protected areas,” he said. The park is 1,532ha in size and located on Darkinjung Country. It is home to 34 native threatened animal species,

including the yellow-bellied glider, the squirrel glider and the four large forest owls. The release of the Plan of Management follows a $1.4M commitment by the NSW Government to upgrade the iconic Bouddi Coastal Walk in four stages over the next three years. The Plan of Management is available at:www.environment. nsw.gov.au/research-andpublications/publicationssearch/bouddi-national-parkplan-of-management. Source: Media release, Dec 21 Parliamentary Secretary for The Central Coast, Adam Crouch

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

From Council At the meeting of Council last Monday evening, I brought on an Administrator’s Minute to consider, in addition to the Special Rate Variation (SRV) of 10% previously resolved by Council, that consultation also be undertaken on an increase of 15%. Following further analysis, it is now apparent that a larger increase needs to be considered in order to maintain current levels of service. In dollar terms what will this impact have on rate payers? After harmonizing the rates between Wyong and Gosford, a 15% SRV on the average residential payer from Gosford will be approximately $7.00 per week, while the average residential payer from Wyong will be $3.00 per week decrease. A 15% rate increase would deliver around $25M per annum towards reducing our deficit ($89M last year). Reducing expenses will contribute more to solving the problem than raising revenue from rates. I spoke with residents demonstrating outside of Wyong Chambers last Monday evening, understandably there were feelings of anger and angst among the group. Questions were raised such as ‘Why should we pay and it’s not our fault’, to which another member of the community responded, ‘We voted them in’. Let me be clear. This is not a done deal and IPART will make the final determination following community consultation.

Dick Persson AM Administrator, Central Coast Council

Council meeting

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

Council office closures over Christmas and New Year

Offices will be closed from 24 December, reopening on 7 January 2021 including Gosford and Wyong Offices, Council works depots and Laycock Theatre. All Library branches will also be closed and after-hours chutes will not be open for returns.

Be Prepared – Be Patient – Stay Safe

#coastsummersafety Steps to stay safe this summer centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/coastsummersafety

Essential services will continue throughout the closure period including water and sewage treatment, lifeguard beach patrols and residential waste collection, with household bins and kerbside collections continuing on public holidays as scheduled.

Buttonderry and Woy Woy Waste Management Facilities will only be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. On Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, these facilities will close at 1pm. Kincumber Waste Transfer Facility remains closed until further notice.

All Council leisure centres will be closed on Christmas and Boxing Day, and will be open on all other days, operating on adjusted hours. Gosford Regional Gallery will only be closed on designated public holidays. The Entrance Visitor Information Centre will be closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and all public holidays, otherwise will be open on adjusted operating hours of 10am-4pm, Tuesday to Saturday. Council operated childcare centres will be shut from Thursday 24 December and reopen on Monday 11 January.

Keep up-to-date by following Council on social media. Call 1300 463 954 to report water, sewer or other urgent Council requests or lodge any non-urgent requests at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/ reportaproblem We wish the community a happy festive season.

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.

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

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NEWS

PAGE 5

24 DECEMBER 2020

CEN calls for E5 zoning for COSS lands The Community Environment Network (CEN) has welcomed Central Coast Council’s decision to defer zoning Coastal Open Space System (COSS) land until the completion of an environmental lands study but cautions that an E2 zone would “not work” for COSS. On December 14, Council Administrator, Dick Persson, resolved that COSS land, along with other deferred matters under the former Gosford Council’s Interim Development Order No. 122 (IDO 122) and Gosford Planning Scheme Ordinance (GPSO), would continue to be deferred matters and sit outside the consolidated CLEP for the time being. “This allayed CEN’s concerns that Council was rushing to zone COSS land as E2 as part of pushing through the Consolidated Local Environmental Plan (CLEP) and Development Control Plan (DCP),” CEN Executive Member, Gary Chestnut, said. Chestnut said deferral provided an opportunity to revisit adding an E5

The Community Environment Network says an E2 zone will not work for COSS lands

Environmental Zone to the NSW Government’s Standard Instrument for zoning land. “CEN has written to the Minister for Planning, Rob Stokes, to ask him to take the final step and sign off on the introduction of an E5 zone which could be used for our COSS and for publicly owned environmental lands across the state,” he said. “The bureaucrats who created the Standard Instrument for planning across

NSW had a Sydney centric focus. “They included eight different zones for industrial land but only four for environmental land. “As it stands, the Environmental zones under the Standard Instrument (SI) would see public and private uses in one environmental zone, E2, which is impractical. “The old zones of 7a through to 7g were never going to work when translated into the

Standard Instrument. “The E5 has been ready to go for years and CEN hopes that Minister Stokes will see the sense in adding it to the SI.” Chestnut said CEN has called upon Persson and Chief Operating Officer, Malcolm Ryan, to create a positive environmental legacy during their time on the Coast by championing an appropriate environmental zone for our Coastal Open Space System. “CEN will be asking local

NSW MPs, MLCs and responsible Ministers why the E5 zone, drafted in 2012 and given widespread support at the NSW Local Government Conference in 2017, has disappeared from the NSW Government’s policy agenda,” Chestnut said. “The Coastal Open Space System may be unique to the Central Coast, but other regions across NSW could also put to great use an E5 zone to protect public environmental land.

“CEN would like to see the NSW Minister for Planning sign off on the proposed E5 Environmental Protection Zone so it can be included in the state-wide Standard Instrument. “It would provide protection for public environmental land across the state. “In particular CEN would like to see all current COSS land zoned E5. “It has been Central Coast Council’s intention, since amalgamation, to expand COSS to the former Wyong LGA. “We would like to see all future land added to COSS, across the whole local government area, zoned E5. “Council is expected to make an Environmental Lands Review and Planning Proposal to review the Deferred Matters as a high priority in the coming year, so CEN hopes that the Administrator uses this opportunity to support the introduction of an environmental zone for COSS.

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

Source: Media release, Dec 17 Community Environment Network

PAGE 6

24 DECEMBER 2020

NEWS

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Ausgrid workers face redundancies, wage freeze Around 700 Ausgrid workers on the Central Coast face an uncertain future, with the company proposing a one-year wage freeze from February and 200 redundancies across the network announced the week before Christmas. Secretary of the Electrical Trades Union NSW & ACT, Justin Page, said while redundancy numbers on the Coast were not yet known, any job losses would impact Central Coast depots. Ausgrid has proposed a oneyear wage freeze for all Enterprise Agreement (EA) employees from February next year as what it says is “a necessary response to the financial challenges the company is facing resulting from the impacts of COVID-19”. This would be followed by pay increases equal to CPI for the second and third year of the proposed agreement, the company said. But Page said with the uncertainty surrounding the CPI, the move could effectively result in a three-year freeze. “Our members have been

Ausgrid workers on the Central Coast are angry about a proposed one-year wage freeze

extremely busy across the network, with more frequent storms, rain, floods and fires we’ve had the lot,” he said. “Members are very angry; they’ve worked really hard over the last three years to keep power on or restore power quickly for customers. “We surveyed our members about the proposed wage freeze and 94 per cent responded they are prepared to take legal industrial action; that’s a strong indication the workers aren’t happy.

“They are also expected to work right through the holiday season; if storms hit, they will be required to restore power.” Ausgrid says senior staff are already experiencing a wage freeze with no salary increases this financial year, which would likely continue in 2021-22. “All Ausgrid EA employees received a 2.25 per cent pay increase this year (in March 2020), as part of a total 7.5 per cent increase over the period of the last EA,” a spokesperson said.

“The proposed one-year wage freeze would take effect upon commencement of the new EA.” Ausgrid CEO Richard Gross said the company was in “tough times” and was restructuring the business, cutting back-office positions and reducing the executive leadership team by more than 20 percent. “Our executive team and senior managers have been on a wage freeze since mid-2019 and I have personally taken a

10 per cent wage cut this financial year,” he said. “In addition to this, our shareholders have not had a dividend for two years and are unlikely to receive one for another two years.” Gross said the goal was to keep downward pressure on costs to customers and protect as many jobs as possible. “We have worked hard to ensure the wage freeze proposed for EA staff is for just one year and to keep the current, active entitlements for

our people,” he said. “We know this is a tough time for everyone and this is not a position anyone would hope for but given the circumstances this is a fair and balanced offer.” The proposal has been put to unions and staff as part of the enterprise bargaining process, with the current Enterprise Agreement due to expire in February 2021. The United Services Union says Ausgrid staff, who have endured five years of restructures that have resulted in more than 2,000 jobs being cut, feel let down by the proposed wage freeze. A Union spokesperson said staff at the partially privatised company, the largest electricity distributor in Australia, should be commended for their efforts to keep the lights on for millions of homes and businesses on the Central Coast and in Sydney, Newcastle, and the Hunter through a challenging year which has seen a health crisis, bushfires, and major storm damage. Terry Collins

Jane Smith

Independent ...working for our community

Changes to planning rules adopted contrary to a lawful resolution of Council On 14 December 2020, the Administrator, Dick Persson, adopted the Consolidated LEP and DCP. These are key planning documents that set the rules for development in your neighbourhood. On 23 November 2016, the first Administrator, Ian Reynolds, decided to begin the process of developing these new plans, having one set of rules for the Central Coast. The Department of Planning indicated that there was no need to go down that path, that “the existing instruments can continue to operate and there has been no directive from the State to undertake consolidation”. In spite of this, the Administrator decided to proceed. The new Councillors were put in a position of having to play catch up in order to represent the interests of residents and community in this process. This took time and meant delays. There have been some wins - maintaining the R2 residential minimum lot size in the former Gosford LGA and height limits in the LEP - however, the 2nd Administrator has overturned some of the changes Councillors agreed to. In adopting the Consolidated LEP/DCP, the Administrator has ignored a lawful resolution of Council. The State government required each Council to prepare a Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS) this year. The deadline for Central Coast was 1 July 2020. The LSPS sets out the 20-year vision for land-use in the local area, the special character and values that are to be preserved and how change will be managed into the future. The LSPS presented to Council in June 2020 was not satisfactory—however, Council needed to adopt it as an Interim LSPS to meet the deadline. Council’s decision required

Local Government NSW to campaign for a stronger ICAC

that a final LSPS would come back to Council by the end of November 2020. Councillors recognised that it was important to ensure that the new planning rules were consistent with the final 20-year vision, the LSPS. In March 2020, it was agreed that the Consolidated LEP / DCP would only come back to Council after the LSPS was finalised. These decisions of Council still stand and have not been rescinded. They have not been complied with. It appears that there has been no regard to these lawful resolutions of Council.

Full financial transparency needed Financial data must be publicly available to build community confidence - preferably before the decisions are taken by the Administrator: • The Administrator has claimed a debt of $565 million - how has this been calculated? • On 11 November, Council raised $50 million and on 18 December Council raised $100 million. It is understood that loan details are confidential but the cash flow estimates should be transparently supplied. • The Investment report tabled on 14 December showed a negative unrestricted cash of $31 million so after this cash raising there appears to be $69 million unrestricted cash. • The council should be transparent with the total amount of debt after the $100 Million was raised - and then provide the cash flow, amounts restricted and unrestricted and debt projected at year end. Knowing the answers to these questions are essential in understanding Council’s current financial position.

Local Government NSW is the peak body for Councils in NSW. Each year LGNSW has an Annual Conference where Councils submit motions to provide direction and form policy. On 24 August 2020, Central Coast Council resolved to submit a number of motions to the LGNSW Conference. This included a motion to campaign for stronger independent integrity organisations at both the State and Federal levels. Over recent years, NSW ICAC has been under with Linda Scott, President LGNSW in 2019 attack-facing ongoing budget cuts and limiting of its powers. There are concerns that its independence is being undermined. Recent hearings conducted by ICAC make those concerns even more pointed. At a Federal level, there is no integrity commission. No agency has the power to investigate what might be considered to be corrupt conduct - including misconduct of politicians, political staff or the judiciary. The motion put forward by our Council has been supported through the LGNSW Annual Conference. As a result, LGNSW will actively campaign to restore funding and ensure the independence of the NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC). The campaign would include a public campaign and providing resources to Councils across NSW to build grassroots support for the campaign. In addition, LGNSW will advocate through the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) for the Federal government to establish an independent anti corruption body with powers similar to those of the NSW ICAC. I look forward to this campaign. For the record: The vote on the motion to Central Coast Council on 24 August:For: S mith, Matthews, Holstein, Greenaway, MacGregor, Sundstrom, Vincent, Mehrtens, Hogan Against: Best, McLachlan, Marquart, Burke, Pilon, Gale

Best Wishes for Christmas and the New Year

It has been a tough year for many. I hope that the Christmas and New Year period brings some happiness, hope and kindness leading into 2021.

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

Central Coast New Independents

Photos: B. Maurer, B. Wills

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

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PAGE 7

24 DECEMBER 2020

Merry Christmas.

I hope you have a happy, healthy and joyous Christmas and all the best for the New Year. LUCY WICKS MP Federal Member for Robertson

Level 3, 69 Central Coast Highway, West Gosford NSW 2250 lucy.wicks.mp@aph.gov.au

lucywicksmp.com

02 4322 2400 LucyWicksMP

2020 Christmas Card Competition

c School

e 10, Empire Bay Publi

1st Place - Winter, Ag

2nd Place - Annalena, Age 9, Woo dport Public School Authorised by Lucy Wicks MP, Liberal Party of Australia, 69 Central Coast Hwy, West Gosford NSW 2250.

ia Public School 3rd Place - Sienna, Age 9, Brisban

PAGE 8

24 DECEMBER 2020

NEWS

Bins go out as usual over Christmas

Opposition to seawall building The Wamberal Beach Save Our Sand (SOS) community group will join forces with Surfrider Foundation Australia in the campaign to fight to protect the natural amenity of Wamberal Beach and oppose a seawall. SOS spokesperson, Felicity Phillips, said Surfrider Foundation, also busy fighting the renewal of the PEP11 gas exploration licence off our coastline, had been advising the SOS campaign. “Brendan Donohue, President of Surfrider Northern Beaches, has been talking to us about their famous Line in the Sand protest against the Collaroy/Narrabeen Seawall 18 years ago and we are very excited to replicate that campaign on the Central Coast in the not-too-distant future,” Phillips said. “We believe a seawall will ruin the amenity of the beach,reducing it to no wider than one metre and we want a guarantee of sand nourishment. “We know from the experiences of other coastal communities impacted by erosion that there is currently no guaranteed source of sand to supply promised nourishment.

“The Task Force examining solutions for the erosion problem at Wamberal continues to meet with the resident owners of the waterfront homes monthly. “Wamberal Beach SOS and other community stakeholders would like to have been offered monthly meetings like the homeowners, not just treated as an after-thought when we started to speak out. “We wrote to Central Coast Council Administrator, Dick Persson, two weeks ago requesting a meeting. “I know he is busy, but he has been making public remarks about Wamberal, so we look forward to having the opportunity to meet him too. “We were disappointed with the recent ‘public consultation’ sessions held at Wamberal SLSC

and Erina. “Community members were given inconsistent and sometimes conflicting information. “No detailed proposals were put on the table.” Hugh Naven, also a spokesperson for Wamberal Beach SOS, said the results from the information sessions and surveys have subsequently been released. “What I believe is most important to note is that there is nothing about the number of people who wantedordidn’twantapermanent revetment wall,” Naven said. “I was also disappointed in the fact that only two conclusions were drawn from the information session and were just that we want a sandy beach and that the issue be addressed.

“I think a lot more was brought up that needs to be recognised and addressed, and I am disappointed to see the lack of concern for other issues. “The most interesting statistic from this whole thing would have to be the fact that only 5 per cent believe the beach is very good since the emergency works. ‘Hopefully Council see that stat for what it is.” Justin Hickey of SOS said modelling shows a revetment wall at Wamberal will lead to erosion of the beach and the loss of amenity for future generations. “The permanent loss of a beach to our community to protect private assets is not a solution in our view,” Hickey said. The Community Environment Network (CEN) has also offered its support to Wamberal Beach SOS. “Council and the NSW Government needed to consider the impact any engineering solution might have on the Wamberal and Terrigal Lagoons in addition to the amenity of the beach,” CEN CEO Sam Willis said.

Cleanaway is reminding Central Coast residents to put their bins out as usual over the festive season.

Waste and recycling services will remain the same across the region. Households are reminded to place general waste, recycling and garden vegetation waste bins out for collection the night before their scheduled day, including Christmas Day and ADVERTISEMENT New Year’s Day. “One of the simplest things Source: Media release, Dec 22 that you can do to reduce your Wamberal Beach Save Our Sand environmental impact at this time of year is to ensure that ADVERTISEMENT you put the right things in your

yellow lid recycling bin,” a Cleanaway spokesperson said. “Remember to place your Christmas wrapping paper, envelopes, cards, party hats, biscuit tins, fruit mince pie trays and cardboard packaging in your yellow lid recycling bin. “Cellophane and foil wraps can’t be recycled; they belong in your red lid bin, as do ribbons, bows and twist ties. “If you are engaging in a little festive cheer – make sure bottles and cans find a home inside your recycling bin too.”

Emma McBride MP u m

MEMBER FO Source: Media release, Dec 21 Cleanaway

Emma McBride MP MEMBER FOR DOBELL

for our comm Emma Caring McBride MP MEMBER FOR DOBELL ADVERTISEMENT

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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

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PAGE 9

24 DECEMBER 2020

This year has been like no other. Fire, flood, and pandemic. Thank you to our frontline workers, our cleaners, teachers, our emergency services, health workers, RFS volunteers, current and returned servicepeople, and our community workers for all you have done this year. To all in our community, I wish you the happiest of times this festive season, and look forward to a wonderful 2021.

Liesl Tesch MP Member for Gosford 20 Blackwall Road, Woy Woy NSW 2256

Gosford@parliament.nsw.gov.au

(02) 4342 4122

Authorised by Liesl Tesch, 20 Blackwall Road, Woy Woy NSW 2256. Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements. Full Page - 2020 Christmas.indd 1

16/12/2020 10:34:08 AM

PAGE 10 24 DECEMBER 2020

NEWS

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Council declares war on graffiti Central Coast Council is declaring a war on graffiti this summer, with a new region-wide strategy adopted, and appeals to residents to play their part. The Central Coast Graffiti Management Strategy 20212024, which sets out the approach Council will take, in partnership with others, to effectively manage graffiti across the region, has been adopted. The Strategy will replace the former Gosford City and Wyong Shire Graffiti Management Strategies to become the first whole of Central Coast Graffiti Management Strategy. It aims to create a sustainable, significant and measurable reduction in graffiti on the Central Coast, while also increasing community awareness and understanding of the issue and providing legitimate avenues for

residents to express themselves creatively. Administrator Dick Persson said graffiti is a complex issue that requires Council, community members and the police to work together to deliver a multi-faceted solution. “As one of the most visible crimes, graffiti can impact on

perceptions of public safety and community pride,” Persson said. “This Strategy aims to reduce the negative impacts of graffiti felt by the community and visitors and increase pride in local areas, so that the Central Coast can become an even better place to live, work and play.”

Developed by Council in partnership with local stakeholders and in consultation with the community, the Strategy outlines five key priorities for graffiti management on the Coast: Boost the rapid removal response, Value our partners in graffiti management, Make it easier to report graffiti, Towards

legitimate art and Prevention. In addition to providing a more coordinated response to graffiti on Council owned assets, the strategy will also see Council support the community and businesses to get involved in graffiti removal, provide better support for the police to do their job through developing stronger

Applications open for $380M in Black Spot funding Round 5A of the Federal Government’s $380M Mobile Black Spot Program is now open for applications. Member for Robertson, Lucy Wicks, said the new round would have a specific focus on improving mobile coverage along major transport corridors and in disaster-prone regions. “Improving coverage in natural disaster-prone areas is critical for keeping people connected during times of emergency, whether it’s to loved ones, or emergency services,” Wicks said. “Since 2013 the Mobile Black Spot Program has delivered

increased mobile coverage in local suburbs such as Peats Ridge, Mangrove Mountain, Calga and Wendoree Park.” Minister for Regional Health, Regional Communications and Local Government, Mark Coulton, said the continuing investment in mobile base stations is further proof of the Government’s commitment to connecting Australians in regional areas. “The first five rounds of the program have funded over 1,200 new base stations in regional Australia, with more than 880 of these already switched on,” Coulton said. “Round 5A will support new

ways of delivering mobile services to locations that have traditionally been less economic for mobile network operators.” Minister for Communications, Cyber Safety and the Arts, Paul Fletcher, said that the Government is continuing to work with industry and state and local governments to improve connectivity across Australia, particularly in disaster-prone areas. “Round 5A will bring further improvements in mobile coverage – building on the progress made since this program began in 2013,” Fletcher said.

Wicks has encouraged local communities and Central Coast Council to identify their priorities for improved coverage, and to work with the mobile network operators and infrastructure providers in support of applications for funding for those areas. Applications for Round 5A will close on February 10, 2020. For more information about the Mobile Black Spot Program and the Round 5A process, visit: www.communications. gov.au/MBSP Source: Media release, Dec 21 Member for Robertson, Lucy Wicks

partnerships and conducting community safety audits and deliver innovative alternatives such as murals, public art activations and community education programs. Meanwhile, Council is calling on residents and businesses to play their part in wiping out illegal graffiti this summer including by providing free graffiti removal kits. Each kit contains Soy Safe graffiti remover, protective eyewear, gloves and a scrubbing brush. Graffiti removal kits can be picked up from all Central Coast libraries and Council’s Gosford and Wyong customer service centres after they reopen on January 7. If you spot someone actively vandalising property of any kind, please call the Police Assistance Line on 131 444 to lodge a report. Terry Collins

Woolies, Coles recall spreads Woolworths and Coles are recalling some spreads sold at their supermarkets and online due to the presence of an undeclared allergen which could be a health risk to anyone with an allergy or intolerance to peanuts. At Coles, the recall is for the 250g Wellness Road ABC Spread. Woolworths is recalling 250g

Macro Almond, Brazil and Cashew spread (ID 357269) with a “best before” date between May 21, 2021 through to December 10, 2021. This recall only applies to those products and no others. The products should be returned to the place of purchase and for more information phone 1800 103 515. Sue Murray

Live Well at Home during and beyond COVID-19

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NEWS

PAGE 11 24 DECEMBER 2020

LGNSW calls for more consultation on bushfire prevention Central Coast Council has backed calls by Local Government NSW (LGNSW) for more consultation with local councils in the development of bushfire prevention measures. LGNSW President Linda Scott expressed concerns that the Bushfire Amendment Act 2020 Bill was passed through Parliament without consulting councils and said the NSW Government must include councils in designing future changes, including revisions to the contentious issue of vegetation clearing, to ensure rules were clear and easy to navigate. “I am deeply concerned that the (bill) was passed through Parliament without consulting councils, which are not only at the forefront of making their communities safe from bushfires but also for supporting them through the recovery process,” Scott said. “In last summer’s horrific fires, councils led the way in supporting firefighting efforts and have been there ever since to continue to help those affected. “While it is too late to consult

with councils on theAmendment Act now, it is not too late to include them in developing a critical new Rural Boundary Clearing Code that allows councils the ability to determine what is appropriate for their communities and will maximise bushfire prevention. “LGNSW is seeking an assurance that Government will consult local government

in that process.” Scott said the Bushfire Amendment Bill was designed to improve upon the 23-yearold Rural Fires Act and other legislation following the NSW Bushfire Inquiry earlier this year. “I appreciate Government’s desire to act as quickly as possible on the Inquiry’s recommendations in order to

keep people safe but pushing through poorly consulted regulation could be just as detrimental to communities from an environmental and social front,” she said. “The reason councils should be consulted on this issue is simple: NSW’s regions are diverse and frankly a one-sizefits-all approach is not an effective or appropriate way to

best defend our State from the increasing risk of bushfires.” One of the recommendations of the NSW Bushfire Inquiry was that the NSW Government would support local councils’ efforts to plan and implement locally targeted hazard reduction strategies. “Councils can’t do this effectively if they are not consulted in the process of

making the rules,” Scott said. “I have written to the Minister asking him to commit to consulting with local government on the Rural Boundary Clearing Code before it is adopted, rather than letting us know after the fact.” A Central Coast Council spokesperson said Council was supportive of the call for consultation with Local Government in the development of a new Rural Boundary Clearing Code. “The regions of NSW are diverse and local councils across the state are well placed to provide information about local conditions to assist in informing the process for developing a new Rural Boundary Clearing Code,” the spokesperson said. “Central Coast Council undertakes bush fire risk mitigation on Council land including the management of 220 fire trails. “The community has a key role to play in bush fire mitigation by preparing their properties for bush fire as well as keeping their bush fire survival plan up to date.” Terry Collins

Rail corridor Wi-Fi upgrade nears completion The Central Coast Trains project is now almost complete, providing improved mobile coverage to thousands of commuters on the Central Coast and Newcastle Line, and free Wi-Fi at 19 stations. The Hornsby to Wyong rail corridor winds through more than 65km of challenging terrain, including several tunnels, hills and valleys creating mobile coverage black spots. The Federal Government has invested $12M, with an extra $4M contributed by the NSW

Government and $13M from Telstra to stamp out mobile black spots along the train line, and provide free Wi-Fi. Minister for Communications, Cyber Safety and the Arts, Paul Fletcher, joined Member for Robertson, Lucy Wicks, on a train ride from Gosford to Woy Woy on December 17 and said the project is now more than 90 per cent complete, with three remaining sites, at Point Clare, Cowan and Brooklyn, due to switch on in the first quarter of 2021. “The Central Coast Trains project is delivering continuous mobile coverage to more than

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30,000 people commuting between Sydney and the Central Coast each day, increasing the productivity of daily commuters and allowing them to work remotely or connect with family and friends,” Fletcher said. Wicks said the project is delivering clear and immediate benefits to commuters. “With more people returning to their usual workplaces, providing reliable access to communication services along this train route is vital,” she said. “This latest project milestone will deliver improved

connectivity and reduce the interruption to commuters’ busy lives. Telstra Group Head, Networks and IT, Nikos Katinakis, said the company was delighted to have partnered with the Federal and State Governments to deliver much greater connectivity for Coast commuters. To find out which stations have free Wi-Fi and how to access it, go to the Transport NSW website. Source: Media release, Dec 17 Member for Robertson, Lucy Wicks

Member for Robertson, Lucy Wicks, and Communications Minister, Paul Fletcher, rode the train from Gosford to Woy Woy

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Lock up your car and home, police warn Brisbane Water Police District Crime Prevention Coordinator, Vivienne Crawford, is warning residents to lock up their cars and personal belongings this Christmas after a noticeable rise in theft. She said this could be due to the easing of COVID restrictions and the Christmas period. Crawford said many cases of theft could be avoided by simply locking vehicles and not leaving personal belongings in plain sight. “It is just opportunistic crime if you are going to leave your car unlocked,” Crawford said. “Please encourage your neighbours, friends, relatives, and colleagues to lock up their vehicles.” House theft is another area Crawford stressed should be monitored. “Lock up your houses if you are going away; that also means the windows; with the heat sometimes we tend to forget, and we leave things unlocked and not secure,” she said. “If you have got a whole heap of new presents, do not leave all the packaging out the front, brand new TV boxes etc - this

Crime Prevention Co-ordinator Vivienne Crawford

is what thieves look for.” Brisbane Water Police District has given the below tips for crime prevention and holiday home safety and security. Let a trusted neighbour or family friend know of your whereabouts and contact details. Ask them to watch your home, empty your mailbox, mow your lawn and, most importantly, call Triple Zero (000) if they notice anything suspicious, or if a smoke alarm is activated. Dispose of Christmas wrapping and delivery/goods packaging carefully. Don’t advertise your new valuables to would-be thieves. Lock away your handyman/ gardening tools, which may be used to force open doors or

windows, and any item that may be used to gain access to the property or cause damage. Record descriptions, models and serial numbers of your valuables and then put them somewhere safe. Switch off and disconnect non-essential electrical appliances and IT equipment. Ensure any electrical items you decide to leave on continuously, or on timer circuits, are in good working order – that includes lights left on to deter thieves both inside and outside. Make sure that any lights you have left switched on are away from combustibles such as curtains and are of the right wattage to prevent overheating. Switch off and empty clothes dryers before you leave.

Close all internal doors before you leave to help contain any fire that occurs. Pay bills in advance, including electricity, gas, water, and telephone, so your supply continues while you’re away. Avoid posting information about being away on holidays because thieves may use this information to target properties. Be sure your home and contents insurance is adequate and up to date. Check your doors, windows and garage are locked securely and remove spare keys from hiding places. As you leave, check everything again. Finally, if you have a home security alarm, activate it. If your home has been broken into; Call your local police station immediately; Don’t touch anything; Let police see your home exactly as the thief left it. While you are waiting for police to arrive, compile a list of what you think is missing; include brand names, model numbers, serial numbers, accurate descriptions and any engraving details. Jacinta Counihan

Beware of phone scams Central Coast residents are being warned about an elaborate phone scam, believed to be linked to transnational organised crime syndicates, which are targeting people across the state. In the past month, several people across NSW have reported receiving a call from someone purporting to be a NSW Police Force officer or government agency representative, demanding money under threat of violence or arrest. Many of these calls are made using caller ID spoofing, where the number appears to be that of the agency they claim to represent. The caller then convinces the person to divulge personal information, before giving instructions to purchase gifts cards or withdraw money and provide it to a nominated person. Financial Crimes Squad Commander, Detective Superintendent Linda Howlett, urged the community to never provide any personal information on unsolicited calls, instead report the incident immediately. “These callers purport to be various government officials

and the essence of the scam is to convince the victim they are in trouble, but they can pay their way out of it,” Det Supt Howlett said. “I want to make it very clear that NSW Police Force officers will not request money from you under any circumstances. “Sadly, this is not the first time these types of scam phone calls have circulated in the community, and likely won’t be the last. “These scams often have ties to organised criminal syndicates operating across the country and around the world and are designed to take advantage of people’s trust in authorities. “All reports of fraud will be thoroughly investigated by the NSW Police Force and we will continue to put perpetrators before the courts. “As we continue working with our law enforcement colleagues here and abroad to investigate the origins of these scams, we are urging the community to heed our warning not to respond to caller demands. “If a call is received, the best course of action is to hang-up and report to police.” Source: Media release, Dec 20 NSW Police Force

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Prohibited weapon warning The NSW Police Force is warning members of the Central Coast community about the illegal importation and possession of prohibited weapons such as the RS-X7 “Doomsday” Slingshot Crossbow. The importation of weapons, firearms, firearm parts, ammunition, firearm magazines and accessories for firearms is controlled and restricted by Australian Border Force (ABF). To import any of these items into NSW, the importer must first obtain approval from either the Commonwealth Attorney General’s Department or from the NSW Police Firearms Registry. Since August this year, the NSW Police Force has received information relating to the illegal importation and possession of RS-X7 “Doomsday” Slingshot Crossbows into NSW from the USA. Capable of firing metal, glass and clay ball projectiles, as well as arrows, this is classified as

Anyone with information about these incidents should call

Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000

or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: www.crimestoppers.com.au Information provided will be treated in the strictest of confidence.

a prohibited weapon by the NSW Firearms Registry. Drug and Firearms Squad Commander, Detective Superintendent John Watson, said these weapons represent a major threat to the safety of the community and emergency service personnel. “We know these items are marketed online as ‘shooting toys’ – however, they are very capable of inflicting serious injury or even death,” Det Supt Watson said. “Specialist detectives are now conducting inquiries into the possession of slingshot crossbows across the state. “Initial information has identified several individuals that have recently purchased

these weapons from Las Vegas, Nevada. “We are calling on those in the community who have a slingshot crossbow or other prohibited weapons in their possession to surrender the items to police immediately – otherwise detectives will soon be on your doorstep to seize them.” To surrender a prohibited weapon, contact your local police station for advice and before attending. Under no circumstances should loaded firearms be taken into public places – including police stations. The maximum penalty in New South Wales for the unauthorised possession of a prohibited weapon is 14 years imprisonment. Anyone with information about the importation or possession of prohibited weapons is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers. com.au. Source: Media release, Dec 18 NSW Police media

Drive safe over holiday period Central Coast drivers are reminded that a state-wide Christmas and New Year road safety operation comes into force at 12.01am on Thursday, December 24, and continues until 11.59pm on Sunday, January 3. Double demerit points will be in force throughout the period for speeding, seatbelt, mobile phone and motorcycle helmet offences. NSW Police officers will also be targeting other poor driver behaviour, including the Four Ds, drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving. Police and Emergency Services Minister David Elliott

has encouraged motorists to travel through the holiday season with safety at top of mind, towards a better 2021. “Traditionally, we see more people on the roads during the festive season, and COVID-19 restrictions permitting, this year will be no different with people holidaying closer to home,” Elliott said. “Drivers need to remember to be patient and allow extra travel time. “I urge all motorists to obey the road rules and exercise extra caution to ensure that this festive season and the start of 2021 is safe for everyone.” Minister for Transport and Roads, Andrew Constance, said road crashes have claimed

the lives of 291 people in NSW so far this year and almost half of those fatalities involved speeding. “It’s devastating that hundreds of families will celebrate Christmas without a loved one this year, and each one of those deaths was preventable,” Constance said. “Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to travel, don’t speed, drive to the conditions, wear your seatbelt, avoid distractions, make sure you’re well rested and if you’ve been drinking or have taken drugs, don’t drive.” Source: Media release, Dec 23 NSW Police Media

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ON THE BEAT

PAGE 13 24 DECEMBER 2020

Terrigal War Memorial vandalised

Members of the Terrigal Wamberal RSL sub-branch are reeling after vandals graffitied the beach side wall of the Terrigal Foreshore War Memorial last week. Sub-branch president Terry Saxby said the senseless act of vandalism was unforgivable. “(It) disrespects the sacrifice of more than 100,000 men and women who died in defence of this country in all wars and conflicts,” he said “The memorial was constructed in 1923 and erected at the junction of The Entrance Rd and Terrigal Dr in

memory of service personnel from the Erina, Terrigal, Wamberal and Matcham areas who died in WW1. “It was relocated to the Salvation Army’s Woodport property in 1985 by the then Gosford City Council. “In 2018, the Salvation Army approached the Terrigal Wamberal RSL sub-Branch to assist in the relocation of the memorial, as the site was required for redevelopment. “This sub-branch, with financial assistance from all levels of government and with

the generosity of the local building industry, accepted responsibility for the relocation of the memorial to its current location at Terrigal. “The reconstructed memorial was rededicated on April 25, 2019, in memory of all servicemen and women, who lost their lives in the service of Australia in all conflicts. “The memorial is a community asset and we ask the public to treat the site with respect. Central Coast Council condemned the act and acted quickly to restore the memorial to its proper condition Terry Collins

Terrigal affray leads to two arrests Two men have been charged following an alleged affray at Terrigal Beach on December 1. Brisbane Water Proactive Crime Unit officers issued move-on directions to a large group of people about 10pm after they were found in possession of alcohol and creating a disturbance near Terrigal Beach. A short time later, a man from the group was seen allegedly assaulting another person in a

carpark nearby before leaving the scene. Another man also attempted to leave but was stopped by police. The 18-year-old man was arrested and was found to be carrying two resealable bags of cocaine. He was charged with not complying with direction given by a police officer, resisting or hindering a police officer in the

execution of duty, possessing a prohibited drug, and supplying a prohibited drug. A second man, also aged 18, presented himself to Gosford Police Station on December 4 and was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and affray. Both men have been granted conditional bail to appear at Gosford Local Court on January 14. Source: NSW Police Media, Dec 4

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FORUM Boardwalk not “powering ahead”

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Great job, Terrigal Bowling Club I would really like to thank Terrigal Bowling Club and the staff there who provided a great Barefoot Bowling experience for a bunch of special needs kids from the Support Unit at Terrigal Public School, held on the first day of the school holidays. It was a farewell party for one of their Year Six students who is graduating from the school but also moving interstate with her family. These kids do not often get to

After receiving Adam Crouch’s unsolicited Christmas pamphlet, I nearly choked on my cornflakes when I read that “Terrigal boardwalk was powering ahead”. The attached photo shows the reality, one week from the Christmas arrival of families seeking a rock pool. I visited the builders’ website, www.landandmarine.com.au, to leave feedback: pleading with them to alter their

FORUM timetable; to delay their stainless-steel handrails that Mr Crouch blithely blamed for the hold-up; to admit that they missed their deadline and attach a sandstone fascia to the concrete; to fashion a semblance of a rock pool. But what does one find on their website? “Our website is under construction: We’re coming

soon!” Perhaps the Terrigal wall could be graffitied and decorated like the Berlin Wall. Certainly, the Terrigal Wall is an example of giving a big concrete finger to the locals. I am not anti-development. Development is necessary for all things. But development into what? Tumors develop. Email, Dec 16 B. Allen, Terrigal

Quite a show at Wyong chambers I will testify that I was an “extra” in Central Coast Council’s production of “The Sting” at Wyong Council chambers on December 14. Actors, Administrator Persson and Director Cox were outstanding and very convincing in their lead roles and have bright futures as the production continues into 2021. Deviation from the script was not an issue for the mature and experienced actors. When deviation from the script did occur, when comments were made on the JRPP and environmental problems, (it) only added to the

FORUM See Page 2 for address and contribution conditions. Opinions expressed are those of the writer and not necessarily of the newspaper impact of their roles in the production. Actors Persson and Cox are naturals in their autocratic roles, certain of offers in other local government productions. Supporters of the arts should acknowledge the unacclaimed

contribution Central Coast Council is making, enhancing the Coast’s reputation on the bigger stage. A new generation of “Sting” supporters is about to be born. Talent scouts are on the prowl, who knows where from here? A re-write to include the Premier? My role in the production was to ask questions about traffic management on the Peninsula. The scene was brilliant with actors Persson and Cox apathetic and indifferent performing convincingly without reservation. Letter, Dec 15 Norm Harris, Umina

FORUM have such events or do not get invited to such parties as they can be quite overwhelming with the excitement and commotion. Indeed, it was the first ever children’s party for the girl concerned and for some of her classmates. We were well located in a quiet section of the club and set up with a range of soft and lightweight bowls which were very suitable.

Raelene gave some very useful tips for kids bowling (no need to go the full length, and don’t stress over the bowls going all over the place), and James and the club were very generous with the food and drink. This kind of community spirit and inclusion is exactly what registered clubs are known for and Terrigal Bowling Club did themselves proud – I’d like to thank them wholeheartedly. Email, Dec 19 Peter Tancred, Copacabana

Ferry service should be stopped I can’t believe that the Palm Beach ferry service is continuing to convey passengers to and from the present largest hot spot of COVID-19 in the whole of Australia. Last year the ferry was considering suspending its

FORUM operation prior to dredging of the channel near Half Tide rocks due to the safety of its passengers and crew. Does the safety and wellbeing of the residents of the entire Central Coast bare any

relevance? When this “essential service” does finally suspend its trip to Palm Beach and return, it will be a classic example of “shutting the stable door after the horse has bolted.” Email, Dec 20 Michelle Hardy, Davistown

Hanson comments appalling May I express my disgust and outrage at Pauline Hanson’s latest appalling remarks in Parliament? This ghastly apology for a politician had the audacity to insult and degrade welfare beneficiaries. How dare she imply that they have no rights?

FORUM As an aged pensioner myself, who has worked and paid taxes most of my life and worked non-stop for years with the UNAA in Sydney … it is beyond my comprehension that any[one] with just a scrap of intelligence would consider

condoning her outrageous, malevolent and obnoxious comments. I dedicate this quote for her benefit from Benjamin Disrreli: “To be conscious that you are ignorant is a great step to knowledge”. Letter, Dec 12 Mary Notman, Niagara Park

Govt should buy Wamberal beachfront houses FORUM

The solution (to erosion at Wamberal) is simple.

State and Federal (governments should) back land and knock down the housing. Adopt the sensible model of

not building on “sacrificial” dunes and return the foreshore to the public. Ratepayers are not going to challenge the might of Mother

Nature and consequences of global warming with their hard-earned dollars for the benefit of so few. Email, Dec 19 Dave Randell, Terrigal

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FORUM PAGE 15 On political representation FORUM SHARE

Climate change deniers in a sinking boat Australia’s Prime Minister has been officially benched by world leaders due to his procrastination on climate change action. Climate change deniers are all in the same sinking boat as the PM. Lucy Wicks, Member for Robertson, is in the same boat. I do not expect the Member for Robertson to issue a media release acknowledging her failure to support climate change action. It is beyond the realms of possibility that Ms Wicks will step up and blame the PM for

FORUM Australia’s international rejection from the leaders’ inner circle. Will the Liberal Party throw its significant power behind the PM and support permanent procrastination and permanent rejection by world leaders, or will members accept, after decades of scientific evidence rejection, that scientists know more about climate change impact than all of the party members involved? Is this a huge leap forward for climate change science acceptance by members of the

Liberal Party in Australia? The PM is now so active in dodging climate change questions, I almost believe he is breakdancing, a sure sign of discomfort. What action if any will the Member for Robertson support? What action will the Liberal Party machine adopt to protect the PM? Will Australia be out in the shrinking wilderness, late into this century? Will the Liberal Party respond? Letter, Dec 12 Norm Harris, Umina

Can councillors really return? Regarding “Council’s debt blows out to $565M” (CCN, December 4); I have seen a couple of times now (that) the councillors could be returned, attributed to the Administrator Dick Persson. Can he be serious? It appears to me that the councillors, at least those in control, have shown total

financial incompetence, or even worse, total negligence of duties. Surely, they could not be returned without expecting similar performance and consequences, My preference would be an extended period with an administrator. Email, Dec 19 Michael Hilton, Berkeley Vale

FORUM See Page 2 for address and contribution conditions. Opinions expressed are those of the writer and not necessarily of the newspaper

Why should ratepayers foot the bill? Central Coast Council Administrator Dick Persson is over ambitious to hike our rates up by 15 per cent; a $565M debt is going to take years to clear. I believe a 5 per cent increase could be justified as ratepayers are doing it very tough at present. Many have lost jobs or became redundant and have

FORUM been forced to draw some of their superannuation just to get by. This Council should never be in this position; they made some very poor decisions over the years with investments made by them collapsing, not to mention junket trips made by

some councillors and staff to overseas destinations spending ratepayers’ money. Nothing at the time was ever questioned. As ratepayers we should not have to be made to pay this debit created by an incompetent Council. Email, Dec 17 Henry Chisholm, Point Clare

Recent recommendations from the Federal Government’s Electoral Matters Committee include optional preferential voting, the introduction of the Robson Rotation for House of Representatives ballot papers and an entirely new Electoral Act.

Of course, this is not an adequate reform at all. It is a reform that suits primarily the politicians. The claim that Australia is a successful democracy is plainly nonsense. This proposal by the parliamentary Electoral Matters Committee is a further exercise in piecemeal tinkering by a committee comprising politicians of both major parties only. This committee does not include representation of the 30 per cent of people who now prefer to vote for a minor party or Independents. I am not represented by Lucy Wicks, the MP for Robertson, not here and not in the

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Parliament either. The 48 per cent (of people) who did not vote for her in Robertson are in fact all unrepresented in the government of this country. They are only indirectly represented by the Opposition. This is the result of the Single Member District electoral system that is used in Australia, a relic of the Westminster heritage. They may be somewhat represented in the minor House, the Senate, as a result of the Proportional Representation system (HareClark) used in that House. A real reform would be to introduce Proportional Representation - Party List, used in 89 countries including New Zealand since 1996. It is based on Multi-Member electorates. This is what I have been proposing for years for Australia but, of course, it doesn’t suit the major parties.

24 DECEMBER 2020

They would have to share power with other parties. I would hope that the generally compliant Australian Electoral Commission would point this out to the population. This Commission has the power to make far-reaching recommendations of its own and could recommend real, meaningful reforms like Proportional Representation Party List. Not only would it really maximise choice amongst voters, but it would end the adversarial, combative, clearly negative system, a major cause of the lack of trust in politicians in Australia. It would be replaced by the need for co-operation, to form coalitions, after general elections, which would create a much more co-operative political culture. Australians have no experience with this, but it does in fact exist in very many countries. Email, Dec 18 Klaas Woldring, Pearl Beach.

Aircraft Landing Area or Airport? I read with interest Jane Smith’s “Advertorial” in your December 11 issue. I think a number of issues she raised are in need of clarification. The disclaimer of her column “Views expressed in these articles are my own and do not represent the views of Council” is an attempt by association to project an authority of a past position which she no longer holds either as mayor, deputy mayor or councillor. Her headline “Council’s financial crisis has changed my view about the airport” is simply another attempt to exercise her long-term desire to see the airport closed. Her covert and overt attempts over the years to make that

FORUM happen are evident to anyone on either side of the debate. In Ms Smiths description of Warnervale Airport as an ALA or Aircraft Landing Area she has borrowed the authority of the term from The WAR act Review (2020). ALA is simply a CASA term which collectively describes the location of many similar flying operations. In doing so she attempts to belittle the status of the airport to make its possible loss somehow less important or newsworthy. Ms Smith might like to know that Warnervale Airport is sufficiently important to have

been designated the ICAO code YWVA by The International Civil Aviation Organisation headquartered in Montreal Canada. To the public an “ALA” would have little meaning; it’s an aeronautical term. I would invite your readers to do an internet search of Australian Airports of which there are some 800. I could find no reference to them being called ALAs although that is what many of them would be. They are all appropriately and properly called Airports, Aerodromes or AirParks by their owners, operators or local authorities. Email, Dec 15 Allan Cooper, Erina

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KEEP YOURSELF AND OUR COMMUNITY SAFE FROM COVID-19

Stay COVID-safe this summer season! 1

Maintain a distance of 1.5 metres from others

Wash your hands well and often

Stay home if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re unwell and get tested as soon as you have any symptoms

When you go out to eat and drink, remember to check-in every time via the Service NSW app

If you have any symptoms, book a COVID-19 test immediately 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 4302 5252 between 9am and 4pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 2pm on Saturdays For the Wyong clinic, call 4394 9200 between 9am and 5pm everyday

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terrigal@parliament.nsw.gov.au adamcrouchmp

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OUT&ABOUT PAGE 17 24 DECEMBER 2020

Coming in waves You can experience breathtaking work from four of Australia’s leading surf photographers at Gosford Regional Gallery this summer. It Seems to Come in Waves is a must-see exhibition for lovers

of the ocean, surfing and photography. Central Coast Council Director Connected Communities, Julie Vaughan, said the collection of works by Ryan Heywood, Spence Hornby, Reed Plummer and Luke Shadbolt embodies the expansive and powerful

Full Focus, a digital print by Spence Hornby, is one of the works on show

beauty of the ocean. “The ocean is a big part of our lives here on the Coast and this incredible exhibition will appeal to a very broad audience,” Vaughan said. “You are taken on a journey through the myriad of waves encountered by surfers of all

types and this is a not-bemissed experience for anybody who loves surfing or photography.” Developments in technology – including drone and underwater cameras – have taken the art of ocean photography to new levels and

this is evident in the exhibition. Council Administrator Dick Persson said the exhibition was a sure winner. “You can’t go far on the Central Coast without being exposed to spectacular bodies of water and this exhibition will mesmerise and inspire

anybody who loves the ocean,” he said. The exhibition will be on show until January 31. Source: Media release, Dec 18 Central Coast Council

Five big chairs A new interactive art installation at Terrigal is one of five to have been set up around the region, as young people, disability and community groups and The Entrance Men’s Shed combined their creative talents to create the Big Chair initiative. Five oversized wooden chairs have been constructed by members of The Men’s Shed and used as the canvas for artwork created by young people from Gorokan and Terrigal High Schools and The Epicentre Community Centre, plus a team from Fairhaven’s Australian Disability Enterprise

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Team. Each chair’s artwork is inspired by the unique identity of the area where it is installed to engage the community and improve the visitor experience. Earlier this year, 10 Terrigal High School students were engaged to conceptualise, interpret and develop ideas around the identity of Terrigal. Once COVID restrictions were lifted later in the year, the young people were able to complete the concept development, design and artmaking of the Big Chair for Terrigal. The emerging artists developed their design to

reflect their connection to the ocean and Terrigal Beach itself as well as their respect of the ocean environment and the creatures living within. The ocean creatures depicted in the design (starfish, octopus, turtle, stingray, dolphin and whale) are commonly found in the waters around Terrigal Beach. The rear facing side of the seat depicts The Haven featuring the Skillion with a large lone Norfolk pine depicted at night in the background, as a reference to the unique nightlife of Terrigal. Council Administrator Dick Persson said it was great to see creative endeavour come to

fruition despite the interruption by COVID restrictions this year. Other Big Chairs have been installed at MacKenzie Reserve, Budgewoi, Canton Beach foreshore, Beach Pde, Toukley and Woy Woy Wharf foreshore. Residents and visitors are encouraged to follow the Big Chair art trail and share photos on social media tagged #CCbigchair with the corresponding town centre location, #lovetoukley, #lovebudgewoi, #loveumina, #lovewoywoy, #loveterrigal. Source: Media release, Dec 17 Central Coast Council

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PAGE 18 24 DECEMBER 2020 OUT&ABOUT Central Coast residents wanting to welcome a new furry friend into their home are being encouraged to adopt, not shop. Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal, Adam Crouch, visited the Central Coast Animal Care Facility at Erina on December 18 to spread the message. “We know at Christmas time people often welcome a new pet into their families or give a cat or dog as a gift to a loved one,” Crouch said. “The Central Coast has one of NSW’s highest rates of pet ownership, so we’re asking people to ‘adopt not shop’ and provide a forever family to furry friends in need.

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Adopt, not shop

“As well as being fantastic new companions, rehoming abandoned or lost cats and dogs has the added benefit of reducing the burden on pounds and shelters. “The Central Coast Animal Care Facility at Erina is very proud to have a no-kill policy and plays an incredibly important role in caring for and rehoming lost and surrendered animals.” Crouch said there are three important steps of responsible pet ownership – microchipping, desexing and registering. “People adopting a rescue cat or dog can also benefit from a 50 per cent discount on lifetime pet registration fees, courtesy of the NSW Government,” he said. “Since 2015, more than

54,000 pet owners in NSW have saved close to $1.5M in discounted pet registration fees.” Minister for Local Government, Shelley Hancock, said the “adopt not shop” message was particularly relevant given the COVID-19 pandemic, which has resulted in a large spike in new pets and additional pressure on pounds and shelters. “It’s no surprise that people have turned to pets for comfort amid these challenging and uncertain times, as you cannot overstate the bond and companionship they bring to their owners,” Hancock said. Source: Media release, Dec 18 Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast is encouraging residents to adopt an animal in need

Coast companies join Audiobook Adventure

The Central Coast is set to shine this summer courtesy of a new partnership between Audible and Empty Esky.

As the world’s largest producer and provider of audiobooks and original spoken word entertainment, Audible is teaming up with national tourism movement, Empty Esky, to give away selected free road trip listens to travellers

this summer. Styled as a national treasure hunt, The Great Aussie Audiobook Adventure aims to encourage travellers to get out and support small businesses in areas that have been hit hard by natural disaster and COVID-19, with road trippers able to unlock almost 60 hours’ worth of entertainment as they visit stops on the itinerary. The Central Coast features

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Little Eyes Author: Samanta Schweblin Publisher: Oneworld

Kentukis are all the rage. “It’s a cell phone with legs.” Keepers buy these gadgets with their camera and speaker enclosed within a toy animal such as a rabbit, crow, mole or panda. The dweller, who lives in another part of the world, has control over the kentuki. The keeper and dweller are paired by chance – the keeper has no say over who the dweller is – and, since the kentuki has a camera, the dweller can see the keeper and follow them around. It is important to make sure the kentuki stays charged. Once it dies the connection is cut forever. (Oh, and the kentuki can’t speak, it can only make the sounds of the animal it imitates.) We meet various keepers and dwellers throughout the world. There is Emilia from Lima. Her son, the wunderkind, has been poached by a firm in Hong Kong and, to fill the void, he sends her a

prominently under the NSW North itinerary, with several local businesses curated stops for the Adventure. These include Saddles at Mount White, Aquafun Avoca Lake, Firescreek Botanical Winery at Holgate and Mr Goaty Gelato and Distillery Botanica, both at Erina. To the north of the region, stops include Wyong-based Little Creek Cheese, Daily

Dough Co andThe Marshmallow Co. Country Manager at Audible Australia, Leanne CartwrightBradford, said the venture came about after new data commissioned by Audible revealed that over half of Australians (52 per cent) see the length of the drive as the biggest deterrent to going on a road trip, with a third (30 per cent) also saying travel time boredom was a problem, while

almost three in four (71 per cent) admitting to asking the dreaded “are we there yet” on a long road trip. “This year has been difficult for all Australians, but with summer around the corner we’re all looking forward to a getaway,” Cartwright said. “As we look to safely holiday in our own backyards this year, Audible has picked some of our favourite road trip listens to

keep Aussies entertained on their journey.” Empty Esky Co-Founders, Eleanor Baillieu and Erin Boutros believe The Great Aussie Audiobook Adventure will entice travellers to discover regional Australia, with their curated itineraries jam-packed with entertainment and dining experiences to write home about. Dilon Luke

BOOK REVIEW connection to becomes a dweller. She connects with Eva, a keeper in Erfurt, Germany. Emilia grows quite attached to Eva, “She would focus on Erfurt and the girl, who wasn’t living her best life right now. She would worry about her own life and her son’s later; she had all the time in the world.” Life is good until a friend buys Emilia a kentuki of her own, it isn’t easy being a keeper and a dweller at the same time. There is Alina in Oaxaca, she purchases a crow and it follows her around until her artist boyfriend Sven takes it over for his art installation. As she sits around mulling the loss of her kentuki she thinks “That was what most infuriated her. What was the whole stupid idea of the kentukis about? What were all those people doing rolling around on other people’s floors, watching how half of humanity brushed their teeth?” Marvin, a school kid in Antigua, is a dweller. He is using the last of his mother’s money to pimp out his keeper’s kentuki. His mother promised him, “One day I’m going to take you to see snow.” Now he is hoping to touch snow through is kentuki.

In Umbertide, Enzo has purchased one under the direction of his ex-wife, saying it will be good for their son, Lucas. Enzo has tried to communicate with the kentuki but grows frustrated by the lack of response. Now his ex-wife wants him to get rid of the thing – but he has grown too attached. Grigor is in Zagreb and is trying to get rich from kentukis. He scours the town purchasing ipads. He is so busy he has hired his neighbour, Nikolina to help him.

She uncovers a sinister plot in Surumu. These kentukis sound far-fetched but is it so different than watching Big Brother or the dozens of other ways people allow their privacy to be invaded. The reviews (and by that I mean real reviewers) have given this book a multitude of praise. Little Eyes is the latest offering by Samantha Schweblin, the Argentinian author of 2017 novella Fever Dream. It is on many lists of best books of 2020. Like many books and movies about the latest technology, it aims to reveal something about human nature, about connections and empathy. Essentially it asks the question of if you are (digitally) inserted into a stranger’s life, how does that affect them, and you? Is there an opportunity for the dweller to live a different (virtual reality) life vicariously through the toy their tech is embedded in? How much do the keeper’s social inhibitions disappear when their lifelike companion is a toy? “Marvin was no longer a boy with a dragon; he was a dragon with a boy inside him.” As provoking and unsettling as that

was, however, I felt each story was a bit underdone. It had potential but didn’t really go anywhere. Instead of several small stories about keepers and dwellers, I would have rather followed one (or just a few) story(ies) in more depth. But perhaps that wasn’t the point. In any case, let’s hope regulation kicks in because it raises some scary prospects of a future society where, “you couldn’t just count on people’s common sense.” Kim Reardon The Reluctant Book Critic

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OUT&ABOUT PAGE 19 24 DECEMBER 2020

Saratoga artist sees her work go international Freelance illustrator and Saratoga local, Christine Friend, is celebrating her third collaboration with international craft company, Diamond Dotz. Three of Friend’s designs now feature on the product which is being sold in over 25 countries. The Australia owned company, Diamond Dotz, is a work of art consisting of making designs out of small rhinestones, known as facets, placed together in a pattern on an adhesive surface. She said the collaboration with the company occurred

following an accidental meeting with a company representative at the Terrigal Markets. “I noticed this new artwork that was really beautiful, and I had not seen before,” Friend said. “The artwork was made of these things they call facets because they have 13 facets on them, which reflect the light beautifully. “I spoke to the lady who was selling them and asked them if they needed any artists because I thought maybe my artwork could go on their product.

“When they said they did, I put together a really good proposal with quite a few artworks and sent it through to the head of the company. “It was quite amazing because he said, even though we live overseas, we are Australians and have some relatives who live close. “Those relatives came and saw my artwork, and liked it, and coincidently the head of the company was coming back to Australia. “So I got a catalogue of over 50 designs together, and an exhibit and that was where it all started.”

Her three artworks titled Kibali Western Lowland Gorilla, Eastern Rosella Gathering and Mother on Guard, are now the branding art for the products. “The founders have been in the business of producing tapestries and embroideries through their company, Needle Artworld, for over 20 years. “They founded Diamond Dotz in 2016. “Lots of people still don’t know what Diamonds Dotz is as it is quite new,” Friend said. “But it is becoming a craft craze everywhere around the world.” Friend has been a local artist

“The chicks were falling all over each other in the grass, oblivious to my presence, but the mother had her eye on me the whole time. “One thing that makes Diamond Dotz different is they are very concerned about the environment. “They make sure they comply with the EU and the standards in America and Australia. “They have environmentally friendly adhesive, and even the dyes they put in the facets don’t have any harmful chemicals.” Jacinta Counihan

NOT FOR PROFIT ORGANISATIONS

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ARTS & CULTURE CENTRAL COAST ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE

Free social French conversation groups, small classes at East Gosford and Bateau Bay Inquiries - Nathalie 0416 303 804 www.afcentralcoast.org.au afcentralcoast@gmail.com

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

TUGGERAH LAKES ART SOCIETY

Join us for the fun and enjoyment of art! Attend a weekly art group with mentors, exhibitions, workshops and a monthly members meeting with guests and prizes, held on the 4th 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

Would you like to read, COMMUNITY LEGAL write and share your poetry. CENTRE We hold workshops and create Not for profit service providing anthologies. free legal advice We meet the second Saturday Mon - Fri 9am to 5pm each month. 4353 4988 Wyoming Memorial Community contact@centralcoastclc.org.au Hall. Contact us by email info@centralcoastpoets.com.au

Building has special needs access and toilets Open 7 days 9am – 3pm. Terrigal. 4385 5027 ccmdc@bigpond.com www.ccmdc.org.au

TERRIGAL WAMBERAL RSL SUB-BRANCH

GOSFORD-NARARA NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE

School Holiday activities, playgroup, multicultural programs, community activities Rooms for Hire 4329 4477 admin@gnnc.com.au

HEALTH GROUPS

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

- Someone cares. Thurs - 12.30pm, Progress Hall Henry Parry & Wells Street East Gosford

U3A CENTRAL COAST

AL - ANON FAMILY GROUPS HEALTH

Terrigal-WamberalSB@rslnsw. org.au.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

www.centralcoast.u3anet.org.au

We offer hope and friendship for people affected by someone else’s drinking. Al-anon family groups meet weekly, please contact 1300 252 666

VOLUNTEERING CENTRAL COAST

BETTER HEARING AUSTRALIA

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

Refer potential volunteers to community organisations & provide support to them. Training to volunteers and managers of volunteers Info sessions held regularly. 4329 7122 recruit@volcc.org.au

COMMUNITY CENTRES

al-anon.org.au

Hearing loss management Support and educational groups providing practical experience and confidence 4321 0275

CENTRAL COAST ASBESTOS DISEASES SUPPORT GROUP

Support for those suffering with asbestos diseases and Social ballroom dancing for all GOSFORD 50+ LEISURE others interested in asbestos ages, all you need is a desire AND LEARNING CENTRE issues. You are not alone, meet to learn and dance, Mon-Fri with others who can share HANDWEAVERS, no partner required. their experiences. Bring a SPINNERS AND TEXTILE meet every Wed -15 Lorraine Chess, darts, handicraft, indoor bowls, knitting, line dancing, family member or friend. ARTS GUILD Ave Berkeley Vale, 2:00pm origami, painting, pencil 1pm at Ourimbah RSL on forth Spinning and weaving, Anne - 0409 938 345 drawing, scrabble, Wed of each month. patchwork and quilting, felting anneglazier@y7mail.com scrapbooking, sit & sew, table Maree 0419 418 190 and other fibre and fabric tennis, Ukulele crafts, community quilting bees CENTRAL COAST MARINE 4304 7065 DYING WITH DIGNITY - Day and Night Groups DISCOVERY CENTRE Campaigning to give those 4325 4743 The revamped CCMDC is open. suffering unrelievable terminal www.cottagecrafts.net.au Schools and Group bookings or incurable illness the choice welcome by appointment. to receive legal medical or you may ring Clive 0419120347

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for over 20 years and is known for her illustrations around Australian native flora and fauna. “I love nature,” Friend said. “I love getting out for walks and visiting zoos and nature reserves. “Most of my illustrations are based on nature, whether they are geometric florals or realistic animal portraits.” She said the Mother On Guard design was inspired by a visit to Oakvale Wildlife Park north of Newcastle. “I saw a peahen with her chicks,” she said.

LEARN TO DANCE

assistance to die. Quarterly mtgs, Erina Fair. 0434 426 486

robyncameron@y7mail.com

www.henrykendallcottage.org.au Brisbane Water Historical Society

FELLOWSHIP OF FIRST FLEETERS

bistro lunches. Google our name for our fully informative newsletter. Meet 10am, 3rd Mon each month at Avoca Beach Bowling Club.

avocaprobus@gmail.com For anyone interested in early history. Don’t need to be a First Fleeter. Last Fri 9.30am Point Clare Community Hall Terrigal Uniting Church 2nd Sat 10:30am LIONS CLUB OF WOY WOY 380 Terrigal Dr, Terrigal 4392 1926 4311 6254 Make new friends & have fun 4367 9600 while serving your community www.pcfa.org.au Everglades Country Club 3rd Monday of each month MEALS ON WHEELS 0478 959 895 COASTAL A CAPPELLA Delicious meals delivered free Award winning women’s Join us for a midday meal WOMEN’S GROUPS a cappella chorus. Help with shopping and Music education provided. cooking classes Rehearsals Tuesday 7pm @ 4363 7111 WOMEN’S HEALTH Red Tree Theatre Tuggerah. CENTRES Counselling, therapeutic and PENINSULA LIGHTHOUSE Performance opportunities. Hire us for your next event. social groups, workshops, Mobile counselling service 0412 948 450 domestic violence and abuse supporting ALL people coastalacappella@gmail.com issues. All services provided by suffering from Domestic women for women Violence POLITICAL PARTIES 4324 2533 Counselling services www.cccwhc.com.au Mon, Ettalong Baptist Church, 0417 472 374 CENTRAL COAST GREENS penlighthouse@gmail.com SOROPTIMIST Local, state wide, national and www.peninsulalighthouse.info/ international issues and INTERNATIONAL campaigns BRISBANE WATER Council and parliamentary S.A Making a difference in the lives representation Is Internet porn destroying your of women & girls through 3rd Thur life. awareness, advocacy & action centralcoast.nsw.greens.org.au We may be able to help. 2nd Thur 7 pm centralcoastgreens@gmail.com We are a 12 step fellowship Breakers Country Club, like AA. Dover Rd, Wamberal Meets every Sat at 7pm on the LABOR PARTY sibrisbanewater@siswp.org Central Coast www.siswp.org OURIMBAH/ NARARA Contact for further details BRANCH 0473 631 439 Discussion/action community newcastlesagroup@gmail.com Issues – 3 levels of Government DOYALSON WYEE 4323 3890 Function Room, Grange Hotel, SOCCER CLUB Wyoming Football club for the local HENRY KENDALL 7.30pm 1st. Monday community. Juniors from under COTTAGE & 0410 309 494 5 to senior teams. Kyle.macgregor@hotmail.com HISTORICAL MUSEUM Kerry 0410 045 981 Visit our c1838 Cottage & president@doylowolves.com.au Museum with exhibits of early PROBUS CLUBS settlers. School and group bookings. Members & AVOCA BEACH volunteers welcome. Open PROBUS CLUB Wed/Sat/Sun 10.30am with a great social program, 2:30pm. West Gosford guest speakers and optional 4325 2270

PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

SERVICE GROUPS

MUSIC

SPORT

HISTORY GROUPS

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.

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Sunday 27 December

Saturday 26 December

Friday 25 December

ABC (C20/21)

PRIME (C61/60)

7:30 Landline Summer [s] 6:00 Woolworths’ Carols In The Domain (PG) [s] 8:00 ABC News On Christmas Day 8:30 Stan Grant’s One Plus One [s] 8:30 Christmas Catholic Mass 114 9:00 ABC News On Christmas Day 10:00 Movie: “Jack Frost” (PG) (’98) Stars: Michael Keaton 9:30 The Pope’s Christmas Mass 2020 [s] 12:00 Movie: “Love Always, Santa” 11:00 Gardening Australia [s] (G) (’16) Stars: Marguerite 12:00 ABC News On Christmas Day Moreau, Mike Faiola 12:30 Christmas With Poh [s] 2:00 Funniest Ever Toddlers (PG) 3:00 The Chase UK [s] 1:00 Would I Lie To You? [s] 1:30 QI (PG) [s] 4:00 Better Homes And Gardens 5:00 The Chase Australia [s] 2:00 That Christmas [s] 3:00 ABC News On Christmas Day 6:00 Seven News [s] 3:20 The Queen’s Christmas 7:00 Border Security - Australia’s Front Line (PG) [s] Message 2020 [s] 7:30 Movie: “National Lampoon’s 3:35 Call The Midwife (PG) [s] 4:55 Escape From The City [s] Vacation” (M d,l) (’83) Stars: 5:50 Worzel Gummidge [s] Chevy Chase, Beverly 7:00 ABC News On Christmas Day D’Angelo, Randy Quaid 7:30 The Queen’s Christmas 9:35 Movie: “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” (PG) (’89) Message 2020 [s] Stars: Chevy Chase 7:40 The Royal Variety Performance 2020 (PG) [s] 11:35 Movie: “Spies Like Us” (PG) (’85) Stars: Chevy Chase, Dan 9:40 Midsomer Murders (M v) [s] Aykroyd, Mark Stewart 11:10 ABC News On Christmas Day 11:40 rage (MA15+) [s] 1:30 Home Shopping 6:00 Home Shopping 6:00 rage (PG) [s] 7:00 Weekend Sunrise [s] 7:00 Weekend Breakfast [s] 9:30 Test Cricket: Australia v India: 10:00 rage (PG) [s] Test 2: Pre Game [s] 11:00 rage Guest Programmer (PG) 10:30 Test Cricket: Australia v India: 12:00 ABC News At Noon [s] Test 2: Day 1 *Live* From The 12:30 Royal Variety Performance MCG [s] 2020 [s] 12:30 Test Cricket: Australia v India: 2:30 The Sound [s] The Lunch Break [s] 3:30 The Royal Edinburgh Military 1:10 Test Cricket: Australia v India: Tattoo 2017 [s] Test 2: Day 1 *Live* From The 5:00 Program To Be Advised MCG [s] 5:35 Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch 3:10 Test Cricket: Australia v India: Musical! [s] – Dr. Seuss’ Tea Break [s] timeless holiday classic comes 3:30 Test Cricket: Australia v India: to life in this fun-filled and Test 2: Day 1 *Live* From The heartwarming stage production MCG [s] of “Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch Musical”, filmed in London at the 6:00 Seven News [s] 7:00 Cricket: Big Bash League: Troubadour Theatre. Sydney Thunder v Melbourne 7:00 ABC News [s] Renegades *Live* From 7:30 Program To Be Advised Manuka Oval [s] 9:00 Endeavour: Passenger (M v) [s] 9:20 Cricket: Big Bash League: 10:30 Sherlock: Sydney Sixers v Melbourne The Final Problem (M) [s] Stars *Live* From Metricon 11:55 rage Guest Programmer Stadium [s] (MA15+) [s] 6:00 Home Shopping 6:00 rage (PG) [s] 7:00 Weekend Sunrise [s] 11:00Weekend Breakfast [s] 11:30Songs Of Praise: Birmingham 9:30 Test Cricket: Australia v India: Test 2: Pre Game [s] 12:00ABC News At Noon [s] 10:30 Test Cricket: Australia v India: 12:30Landline Summer [s] Test 2: Day 2 *Live* From The 1:00 Call The Midwife: MCG [s] Christmas Special [s] 12:30 Test Cricket: Australia v India: 2:30 War On Waste (PG) [s] Lunch Break [s] 3:30 Everyone’s A Critic [s] 4:00 Football: W-League: Round 1: 1:10 Test Cricket: Australia v India: Test 2: Day 2 *Live* From The Western Sydney Wanderers v MCG [s] Melbourne Victory *Live* From 3:10 Test Cricket: Australia v India: Bankwest Stadium [s] Tea Break [s] 6:00 Antiques Roadshow [s] 3:30 Test Cricket: Australia v India: 7:00 ABC News Sunday [s] Test 2: Day 2 *Live* From The 7:30 Fight For Planet A: Our MCG [s] Climate Challenge (PG) [s] 6:00 Seven News [s] 8:40 The Cry (M) [s] 7:00 Cricket: Big Bash League: 10:35Killing Eve: Brisbane Heat v Hobart Wide Awake (MA15+) [s] Hurricanes *Live* From The 11:20Silent Witness: Brisbane Cricket Ground [s] Identity (Part 1) (M) [s] 12:15Endeavour: Passenger (M v) [s] 11:00 Movie: “Due Date” (MA15+) (’10) Stars: Zach Galifianakis, 1:45 rage (MA15+) Robert Downey Jr. 4:00 Silent Witness: 1:00 Home Shopping Identity (Part 1) (M) [s]

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

TEN (C13)

NINE (C81/80)

6:00 National Pharmacies 6:00 Christmas Pageant [s] 7:00 8:00 2020 Lord Mayor’s Christmas 7:30 Carols [s] 8:00 9:00 Movie: “Grumpy Cat’s Worst Christmas Ever” (PG) (’14) 8:30 11:00 Stars: Grumpy Cat, Megan Charpentier, Daniel Roebuck 10:50 CMA Country Christmas [s] 12:00 12:00 Christmas With Delta (PG) [s] 1:00 1:00 Carols By Candlelight (PG) [s] 4:00 Movie: “Arthur Christmas” (G) 2:00 (’11) Stars: Sarah Smith 3:30 6:00 NINE News [s] 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) [s] 5:00 6:00 7:30 The Disney Holiday 6:30 Singalong [s] 7:30 8:30 Movie: “Christmas With The Kranks” (PG) (’04) Stars: Tim Allen, Jamie Lee Curtis 8:00 10:30 Christmas In New York 9:00 Inside The Plaza [s] 11:30 2020 Queen’s Christmas Message [s] 10:00 11:40 World’s Best Christmas 12:00 Commercials [s] 6:00 6:00 Easy Eats [s] 6:30 7:00 Weekend Today [s] 7:00 10:00 Today Extra Summer [s] 7:30 12:00 Award Winning Tasmania: 8:30 Ulverstone [s] 9:30 12:30 The Rebound [s] 10:00 1:00 Healthy Cooks [s] 1:30 World’s Greatest Journeys [s] 10:30 2:30 Movie: “The Walk” (PG) (’15) 11:00 11:15 Stars: Joseph Gordon-Levitt 5:00 NINE News: First At Five [s] 12:15 5:30 RBT: Tattoo You (PG) [s] 1:15 6:00 NINE News Saturday [s] 7:00 Movie: “Twins” (PG) (’88) – A physically perfect but innocent man goes in search of his long- 3:30 lost twin brother, who is a short 4:00 small-time crook. Stars: Arnold 4:30 5:00 Schwarzenegger, Danny 6:00 DeVito, Kelly Preston 9:10 Movie: “Kindergarten Cop” (M) 7:00 (’90) Stars: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Penelope Ann Miller 9:00 11:20 Movie: “The Brothers Bloom” (M v,l) (’08) Stars: Rachel 10:40 Weisz, Adrien Brody 6:00 6:00 Easy Eats [s] 7:30 7:00 Weekend Today [s] 10:00 SA Variety Bash 2020 (PG) [s] 8:00 8:30 11:00 Peaking (PG) [s] 9:00 11:45 Ultimate Rush (PG) [s] 10:00 12:15 Wild Metropolis: 12:00 Outcasts (PG) [s] 12:30 1:15 Movie: “We Of The Never Never” (PG) (’82) Stars: Angela 1:00 Punch McGregor, John Jarratt, 1:30 2:00 Arthur Dignam, Tony Barry 3:00 4:00 Tipping Point [s] 5:00 NINE News: First At Five [s] 4:00 5:30 Territory Cops (PG) [s] 5:00 6:00 NINE News Sunday [s] 6:00 7:00 60 Minutes (PG) [s] 6:30 8:00 RBT: Close Shave (PG) [s] 7:30 8:30 Movie: “Deep Impact” (M l) (’98) Stars: Téa Leoni, Morgan 8:30 Freeman, Elijah Wood 10:55 Killer On The Line: 11:05 Darren Byrne (M v) [s] 11:45 Young, Dumb And Banged Up 12:00 In The Sun (M v,s) [s] 2:00 12:35 Tipping Point [s] 4:30 1:30 Home Shopping

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

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

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SBS (C30)

The Talk [s] 5:00 5:15 Entertainment Tonight [s] Judge Judy (PG) [s] 5:30 The Bold And The Beautiful 1:00 (PG) [s] 2:00 Studio 10 (PG) [s] Jamie’s Quick Meals At 2:30 Christmas [s] The Living Room [s] 3:30 WIN Symphony Orchestra Special [s] 4:30 Halfway Across The Galaxy And Turn Left (PG) [s] 5:30 The Saddle Club [s] 6:00 10 News First [s] WIN News [s] 6:30 The Project (PG) [s] 7:30 The Big Bang Theory: The Holiday Summation (M) [s] 8:00 Have You Been Paying Attention To 2020? (M) [s] 9:00 Hughesy, We Have A Problem - Christmas Edition (M s,l) [s] 10:00 Movie: “That’s Not My Dog” (M) (’18) Stars: Shane Jacobson 10:55 The Project (PG) [s] 11:55 Unknown Road Adventures 5:00 5:15 Entertainment Tonight [s] 5:30 RV Daily Foodie Trails (PG) 1:00 All 4 Adventure [s] 2:00 4X4 Adventures [s] Taste Of Australia [s] 5:05 Left Off The Map [s] 5:35 My Market Kitchen [s] 6:30 Everyday Gourmet [s] Jamie & Jimmy’s Food Fight 7:35 Club (PG) [s] The Living Room [s] Movie: “Miss Congeniality” (PG) (’00) Stars: Sandra Bullock, Michael Caine Roads Less Travelled [s] Freshly Picked [s] 7:55 Fishing Australia [s] 10 News First [s] 9:00 The Dog House (PG) [s] Movie: “Red Dog” (PG) (’11) Stars: Josh Luca Movie: “Koko: A Red Dog 12:05 Story” (G) (’19) Stars: Jason Isaacs, Felix Williamson Blood And Treasure (M) [s] 5:00 Religious Programs [s] 5:15 Fishing Australia [s] Australia By Design: Interiors 5:30 My Market Kitchen [s] The Living Room [s] Bondi Forever (PG) [s] Left Off The Map [s] 1:00 Roads Less Travelled [s] Freshly Picked [s] 3:00 RV Daily Foodie Trails [s] 4X4 Adventures [s] 5:05 Close Encounters Of The 5:35 Animal Kind [s] 6:30 All 4 Adventure [s] 7:30 10 News First [s] WIN News [s] 7:55 Family Feud (PG) [s] The Graham Norton Show (M) 9:40 Movie: “Now You See Me 2” (PG) (’16) Stars: Jesse 10:25 Eisenberg, Dave Franco Blood And Treasure: The 11:30 Revenge Of Farouk (M v) [s] 12:45 NCIS (PG) [s] Home Shopping 3:35 CBS This Morning [s]

CGTN English News NHK World English News Worldwatch PBS Newshour Great British Railway Journeys (PG) Sandringham: The Queen At Christmas Rick Stein’s Spanish Christmas Rick Stein’s Cornish Christmas Letters And Numbers Going Places With Ernie Dingo: Broome (PG) SBS World News A World Of Calm: The Birds Journey (PG) Planet Of Treasures: India (PG) (In English/ German) Tom Cruise - Body And Soul (M) 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M) Country Music (PG) The Name Of The Rose (M) CGTN English News NHK World English News Worldwatch PBS Newshour Kimberley Cruise: Australia’s Last Great Wilderness Travel Man: Tenerife Nazi Megastructures (PG) SBS World News A World Of Calm: The Gift Of Chocolate (PG) – Inspired by the ancient cacao traditions of Central America, we capture the alluring alchemy of chocolate and its metamorphosis from tropical fruit to global delicacy. Secrets Of Our Cities: Freemantle (PG) Movie: “Gangs Of New York” (MA15+) (’02) Stars: Leonardo DiCaprio (In Latin/ Chinese/ English) Movie: “The Fortress” (MA15+) (’17) Stars: Byung-hun Lee, Yoon-seok Kim (In Korean) CGTN English News NHK World English News Worldwatch – Deutsche Welle English News 6:00 France 24 English News 6:30 Al Jazeera English News 7:30 Italian News 8:10 Worldwatch Continues Speedweek Figure Skating: ISU Figure Skating Rostelecom Cup Travel Man: St Petersburg Nazi Megastructures (PG) SBS World News A World Of Calm: A Horses Tale (PG) Dan Snow: The Tutankhamun Mystery (PG) Secret Life Of The Mega Resort (PG) Marry Me, Marry My Family (PG) (In English/ Amharic) Police Custody (M l) The Diet Testers How To Lose Weight Well (PG) Great British Railway Journeys (PG)

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

PRIME (C61/60)

NINE (C81/80)

6:00 The Cook And The Chef [s] 6:25 Short Cuts To Glory: Matt Okine vs Food [s] 7:00 News Breakfast [s] 10:00 Antiques Roadshow [s] 11:00 Gardening Australia [s] 12:00 ABC News At Noon [s] 1:00 The Great Acceleration (PG) 1:55 Rake (M l,d,s) [s] 3:00 Death In Paradise (PG) [s] 4:00 The Heights (PG) [s] 4:30 Back Roads (PG) [s] 5:00 Escape From The City (PG) [s] 6:00 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery (PG) [s] 6:30 Anh’s Brush With Fame (PG) 7:00 ABC News [s] 7:30 David Attenborough’s Tasmania (PG) [s] 8:25 Australia Remastered: Kakadu 9:20 Griff’s Great Australian Rail Trip (PG) [s] 10:10 Tomorrow Tonight (PG) [s] 10:40 ABC Late News [s] 10:55 Harrow: Ab Initio (M v) [s] 11:50 Silent Witness (M l,s,v) [s]

6:00 Sunrise [s] 9:00 Program Be Advised 9:30 Test Cricket: Australia v India: Test 2: Pre Game [s] 10:30 Test Cricket: Australia v India: Test 2: Day 3 *Live* From The MCG [s] 12:30 Test Cricket: Australia v India: Lunch Break [s] 1:10 Test Cricket: Australia v India: Test 2: Day 3 *Live* From The MCG [s] 3:10 Test Cricket: Australia v India: Tea Break [s] 3:30 Test Cricket: Australia v India: Test 2: Day 3 *Live* From The MCG [s] 6:00 Seven News [s] 7:00 Cricket: Big Bash League: Perth Scorchers v Adelaide Strikers *Live* From The Adelaide Oval [s] 11:00 Station 19: Let It Burn (M) [s] 12:00 Robbie Coltrane’s Critical Evidence (M v,l) [s] 1:00 Home Shopping

5:30 Today [s] 9:00 Today Extra Summer [s] 11:30 NINE’s Morning News [s] 12:00 Movie: “Housesitter” (PG) (’92) Stars: Goldie Hawn, Steve Martin, Dana Delany 2:00 Bondi Vet: Coast To Coast (PG) [s] 3:00 Tipping Point [s] 4:00 NINE’s Afternoon News [s] 5:00 Millionaire Hot Seat [s] 6:00 NINE News [s] 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) [s] 7:30 Gold Coast Cops (M v,l) [s] 8:00 Driving Test: Thomas (PG) [s] 8:30 Movie: “Inferno” (M v,l) (’16) Stars: Tom Hanks, Felicity Jones, Irfan Khan, Omar Sy, Sidse Babett Knudsen 10:55 The First 48: The Graveyard Shift (M) [s] 11:50 Generation X: The Power Of Disruption (M) [s] 12:45 A Current Affair (PG) [s] 1:15 Explore [s] 1:30 Home Shopping

Tuesday 29 December

6:00 The Cook And The Chef [s] 6:25 Short Cuts To Glory: Matt Okine vs Food [s] 7:00 News Breakfast [s] 10:00 David Attenborough’s Tasmania [s] 11:00 Gardening Australia [s] 12:00 ABC News At Noon [s] 1:00 The Great Acceleration (PG) 1:55 Rake (M l,d,s) [s] 3:00 Death In Paradise (PG) [s] 4:00 The Heights (PG) [s] 4:30 Back Roads (PG) [s] 5:00 Escape From The City (PG) [s] 6:00 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery (PG) [s] 6:30 Anh’s Brush With Fame (PG) 7:00 ABC News [s] 7:30 Freeman [s] 8:30 The Australian Dream (MA15+) [s] 9:35 Pangolins: Narrated by David Attenborough [s] 10:35 ABC Late News [s] 10:50 Glitch (M l,s) [s] 11:50 Silent Witness (M l,s,v) [s]

6:00 Sunrise [s] 9:00 Program Be Advised 9:30 Test Cricket: Australia v India: Test 2: Pre Game [s] 10:30 Test Cricket: Australia v India: Test 2: Day 4 *Live* From The MCG [s] 12:30 Test Cricket: Australia v India: Lunch Break [s] 1:10 Test Cricket: Australia v India: Test 2: Day 4 *Live* From The MCG [s] 3:10 Test Cricket: Australia v India: Tea Break [s] 3:30 Test Cricket: Australia v India: Test 2: Day 4 *Live* From The MCG [s] 6:00 Seven News [s] 7:00 Cricket: Big Bash League: Sydney Thunder v Melbourne Stars *Live* From Manuka Oval 11:00 Chicago Fire: Protect A Child (M) [s] 12:00 Funniest Cutest Kittens Ever (PG) [s] 1:00 Home Shopping

5:30 Today [s] 9:00 Today Extra Summer [s] 11:30 NINE’s Morning News [s] 12:00 Movie: “Miss Pettigrew Lives For A Day” (PG) (’08) Stars: Amy Adams, David Alexander, Clare Clifford, Christina Cole, Stephanie Cole, Beatie Edney, Shirley Henderson 2:00 Desert Vet (PG) [s] 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) [s] 4:00 NINE’s Afternoon News [s] 5:00 Millionaire Hot Seat [s] 6:00 NINE News [s] 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) [s] 7:30 20 To One: Epic Celebrity Fails (M) [s] 8:30 Kath & Kim: Cactus Hour/ The Mango Espadrille (PG) [s] 9:35 Program To Be Advised 10:40 Hamish & Andy’s Euro Gap Year (PG) [s] 11:35 Law & Order: Criminal Intent: Baggage (M v) [s] 12:30 Tipping Point (PG) [s] 1:30 Home Shopping

12:25 12:55 2:00 3:30

6:00 The Cook And The Chef [s] 6:30 Short Cuts To Glory: Matt Okine vs Food [s] 7:00 News Breakfast [s] 10:00 Australia’s Lost Impressionist (PG) [s] 11:00 Gardening Australia [s] 12:00 ABC News At Noon [s] 1:00 The Great Acceleration (PG) 1:55 Rake (M l,d,s) [s] 3:00 Death In Paradise (PG) [s] 4:00 The Heights (PG) [s] 4:30 Back Roads (PG) [s] 5:00 Escape From The City (PG) [s] 6:00 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery (PG) [s] 6:30 Anh’s Brush With Fame (PG) 7:00 ABC News [s] 7:30 Hard Quiz Celebrity Special (PG) [s] 8:05 Would I Lie To You?: More Unseen Bits (PG) [s] 8:35 Melbourne Comedy Festival Allstars Comedy Supershow (M l,s) [s] 10:20 Would I Lie To You? (PG) [s]

6:00 Sunrise [s] 9:00 Program Be Advised 9:30 Test Cricket: Australia v India: Test 2: Pre Game [s] 10:30 Test Cricket: Australia v India: Test 2: Day 5 *Live* From The MCG [s] 12:30 Test Cricket: Australia v India: Lunch Break [s] 1:10 Test Cricket: Australia v India: Test 2: Day 5 *Live* From The MCG [s] 3:10 Test Cricket: Australia v India: Tea Break [s] 3:30 Test Cricket: Australia v India: Test 2: Day 5 *Live* From The MCG [s] 6:00 Seven News [s] 7:00 Cricket: Big Bash League: Hobart Hurricanes v Brisbane Heat *Live* From Brisbane Cricket Ground [s] 11:00 Movie: “Black Mass” (MA15+) (’15) Stars: Johnny Depp, Joel Edgerton 1:30 Home Shopping

5:30 Today [s] 9:00 Today Extra Summer [s] 11:30 NINE’s Morning News [s] 12:00 Movie: “The Pink Panther 2” (PG) (’09) Stars: Steve Martin, Jean Reno, Emily Mortimer, Andy Garcia, Alfred Molina, Yuki Matsuzaki, Aishwarya Rai 2:00 Desert Vet (PG) [s] 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) [s] 4:00 NINE’s Afternoon News [s] 5:00 Millionaire Hot Seat [s] 6:00 NINE News [s] 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) [s] 7:30 Paramedics (M) [s] 8:30 The Inbetween: Another Broken Morning (M v) [s] 9:30 Chicago Med: The Ground Shifts Beneath Us (MA15+) [s] 10:30 Chicago Med: Leave The Choice To Solomon (MA15+) [s] 11:20 New Amsterdam: Your Turn (M mp) [s] 12:10 World’s Wildest Flights (PG) 1:00 A Current Affair (PG) [s] 1:30 Home Shopping

6:00 Headline News [s] 8:30 Studio 10 (PG) [s] 11:00 Good Chef Bad Chef [s] 11:30 My Market Kitchen [s] 12:00 Dr Phil (PG) [s] 1:00 Jamie’s And Jimmy’s Food Fight Club [s] 2:00 Entertainment Tonight [s] 2:30 Everyday Gourmet [s] 3:00 Judge Judy (PG) [s] 3:30 Left Off The Map [s] 4:00 Farm To Fork [s] 4:30 The Bold And The Beautiful (PG) [s] 5:00 10 News First [s] 6:00 WIN News [s] 6:30 The Project (PG) [s] 7:30 Movie: “Ocean’s 8” (M l) (’18) Stars: Sandra Bullock 9:40 Movie: “Ocean’s Thirteen” (PG) (’07) Stars: George Clooney 11:10 Drunk History Australia (MA15+) [s] 12:30 WIN’s All Australian News [s] 1:30 The Project (PG) [s] 2:30 The Late Show (PG) [s]

6:00 The Cook And The Chef [s] 6:25 Short Cuts To Glory: Matt Okine vs Food [s] 7:00 News Breakfast [s] 10:00 Pangolins (PG) [s] 11:00 Gardening Australia [s] 12:00 ABC News At Noon [s] 1:00 The Great Acceleration (PG) 1:55 Gardening Australia: New Year’s Family Special [s] 3:00 Death In Paradise (PG) [s] 4:00 The Heights (PG) [s] 4:30 Back Roads (PG) [s] 5:00 Escape From The City (PG) [s] 6:00 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery (PG) [s] 6:30 Anh’s Brush With Fame: Dannii Minogue (PG) [s] 7:00 ABC News [s] 7:30 The Yearly With Charlie Pickering 2020 [s] 8:30 New Year’s Eve 2020 [s] 12:00 New Year’s Eve 2020: Midnight Fireworks [s] 12:10 Silent Witness: Remembrance (Part 1) (M d,n,s,v) [s]

5:30 Today [s] 6:00 Sunrise [s] 6:00 Headline News [s] 9:00 Today Extra Summer [s] 9:00 The Morning Show (PG) [s] 8:30 Studio 10 (PG) [s] 11:30 NINE’s Morning News [s] 11:30 Seven Morning News [s] 11:00 Good Chef Bad Chef [s] 12:00 Movie: “Million Dollar Arm” (PG) 12:00 Movie: “The Last Mimzy” (PG) 11:30 My Market Kitchen [s] (’07) Stars: Chris O’Neil (’14) Stars: Jon Hamm 12:00 Dr Phil (PG) [s] 2:00 Desert Vet (PG) [s] 2:30 Surf Patrol (PG) [s] 1:00 Jamie And The Nonnas [s] 3:00 Tipping Point (PG) [s] 3:00 The Chase UK [s] 2:00 Entertainment Tonight [s] 4:00 NINE’s Afternoon News [s] 4:00 Seven News At 4 [s] 2:30 Everyday Gourmet [s] 5:00 Millionaire Hot Seat [s] 5:00 The Chase Australia [s] 3:00 Judge Judy (PG) [s] 6:00 NINE News [s] 6:00 Seven News [s] 3:30 Left Off The Map [s] 7:00 A Current Affair (PG) [s] 7:00 Cricket: Big Bash League: 4:00 Farm To Fork [s] 7:30 Movie: “Hairspray” (PG) (’07) Adelaide Strikers v Perth 4:30 The Bold And The Beautiful Stars: John Travolta, Michelle Scorchers *Live* From The (PG) [s] Adelaide Oval [s] Pfeiffer, Christopher Walken, 5:00 10 News First [s] 11:00 Movie: “New Year’s Eve” (PG) Amanda Bynes, James 6:30 The Project (PG) [s] (’11) – Romantic comedy which Marsden, Queen Latifah, 7:30 John Foreman’s Aussie Pops celebrates love, hope, Brittany Snow, Zac Efron Orchestra NYE Gala [s] forgiveness, second chances 9:45 Let’s Go Crazy: The Grammy 9:00 Have You Been Paying and fresh starts, in the Salute To Prince (PG) [s] Attention To 2020? (M) [s] intertwining stories of couples 11:35 Movie: “Can’t Stop The Music” 10:00 Movie: “The Great Gatsby” and singles, told amidst the (PG) (’80) Stars: Valerie Perrine, (M v) (’13) Stars: Lisa Adam pulse and promise of the most Steve Guttenberg, Randy 12:40 WIN’s All Australian News [s] dazzling night of the year. Stars: Jones, David Hodo 1:40 The Project (PG) [s] Zac Efron, Lea Michele, Halle 2:00 Home Shopping 2:40 The Late Show (PG) [s] Berry, Ashton Kutcher 5:00 Skippy - The Bush Kangaroo 3:30 Home Shopping 1:30 Home Shopping 5:30 Wesley Impact [s] 4:30 CBS This Morning [s]

Monday 28 December

ABC (C20/21)

Wednesday 30 December

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Thursday 31 December

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)

TEN (C13)

6:00 8:30 11:00 11:30 12:00 1:00 2:00 2:30 3:00 3:30 4:00 4:30 5:00 6:00 6:30 7:30 8:00 11:30 12:00 1:00 2:00 6:00 8:30 11:00 11:30 12:00 1:00 2:00 2:30 3:00 3:30 4:00 4:30 5:00 6:00 6:30 7:30 9:55

PAGE 21 24 DECEMBER 2020

SBS (C30)

Headline News [s] 5:00 Studio 10 (PG) [s] 5:15 Good Chef Bad Chef [s] 5:30 My Market Kitchen [s] 2:00 Dr Phil (PG) [s] Jamie’s Quick And Easy 2:10 Food [s] 3:05 Entertainment Tonight [s] 4:00 Inside The Children’s Hospital [s] 4:35 Judge Judy (PG) [s] 5:30 Left Off The Map [s] 6:00 Farm To Fork [s] 6:30 The Bold And The Beautiful 7:30 (PG) [s] 7:55 10 News First [s] WIN News [s] 9:40 The Project (PG) [s] 10:50 Movie: “Home Again” (PG) 11:15 (’17) Stars: Reese Witherspoon Movie: “Drunk Parents” (M l,s) 12:10 (’19) Stars: Alec Baldwin 2:20 Drunk History Australia (M l,s) The Project (PG) [s] 3:25 The Late Show (PG) [s] 4:25 Home Shopping

CGTN English News NHK World English News Worldwatch Destination Flavour China Bitesize Story Of Europe y (PG) Restaurant SOS: Lilu (PG) Great British Railway Journeys (PG) The Supervet (PG) Letters And Numbers Mastermind Australia SBS World News A World Of Calm: Noodle (PG) Big Fat Quiz Of The Year 2020 (M) Happy Birthday Hubble (PG) SBS World News Late Hamilton Agent (MA15+) (In Swedish/ English) Outlander (MA15+) For The Love Of Meat With Matthew Evans (M l) The Wine Show (PG) Full Frontal With Samantha Bee (M)

Headline News [s] 5:00 Studio 10 (PG) [s] 5:15 Good Chef Bad Chef [s] 5:30 My Market Kitchen [s] 1:00 Dr Phil (PG) [s] 2:00 Jamie’s Quick And Easy 3:00 Food [s] Entertainment Tonight [s] 3:30 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield [s] 4:35 Judge Judy (PG) [s] 5:30 Left Off The Map [s] 6:00 Farm To Fork [s] The Bold And The Beautiful 6:30 (PG) [s] 7:35 10 News First [s] WIN News [s] 7:55 The Project (PG) [s] Movie: “Ocean’s Eleven” (M l) 8:30 (’01) Stars: Brad Pit 10:10 Movie: “Ocean’s Twelve” (M l) 10:40 (’04) Stars: George Clooney 11:30 Drunk History Australia (M l,s) 12:40 WIN’s All Australian News [s] 1:35 The Late Show (PG) [s] 3:45 Home Shopping

CGTN English News NHK World English News Worldwatch PBS Newshour Story Of Europe s (PG) Great British Railway Journeys d (PG) Who Do You Think You Are?: Michelle Keegan (PG) Inside Windsor Castle (PG) Letters And Numbers Going Places With Ernie Dingo: Jindabyne (PG) SBS World News A World Of Calm: Snowfall (PG) Great British Railway Journeys (PG) Food Fighter (M l) SBS World News Late Why We Hate (M) The A Word (M l,s) The Pier (MA15+) (In Spanish) Life Drawing UK (M n) Great British Railway Journeys (PG)

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 3:00

CGTN English News NHK World English News Worldwatch PBS Newshour Story Of Europe (PG) Great British Railway Journeys: Hull To Malton (PG) 3:30 Who Do You Think You Are?: Lee Mack (PG) 4:35 Inside Windsor Castle (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Going Places With Ernie Dingo: Grampians (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 A World Of Calm Of Life (PG) 7:55 London’s Great Bridges 8:50 Secrets Of Britain: Secrets Of Her Majesty’s Secret Service (PG) 9:55 SBS World News Late 10:25 Policing The Police (M) 11:25 Vikings: Valhalla Can Wait/ Valhalla Can Wait/ The Best Laid Plans (MA15+) 2:10 Movie: “The Danish Girl” (M) (’15) Stars: Alicia Vikander 5:00 5:15 5:30 1:00 2:00 3:00

CGTN English News NHK World English News Worldwatch PBS Newshour Story Of Europe (PG) Great British Railway Journeys (PG) 3:35 Who Do You Think You Are?: Shirley Ballas (PG) 4:45 Inside Windsor Castle 5:40 Letters And Numbers 6:10 Dinner For One (PG) (In English/ German) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 A World Of Calm (PG) 7:55 Freddie Mercury - The Great Pretender (M l,s) 9:30 Dolly Parton: 50 Years At The Opry (PG) 11:00 The Last Waltz (M s) 1:15 Kylie Minogue’s Secret Night (PG) (PG) 2:15 Spice Girls Live At Wembley Stadium (PG) (PG) 4:15 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 24 DECEMBER 2020

PUZZLES

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ACROSS

V E O M

T A

O A S L I A E I K I X E S T O I A A N E Y I S I N S N

T E S

Missing Link Solution:

H O F U Z Z G O V E I N E T E N E E O MA MA S S B I QU A D T E

K T Y R I V A L H O X A S L I P A C A K E I K M I X E S T RO I A A N T E W Y I S J O I N S N Y

35. Male rowers 37. Northern sea duck 38. Arouses (interest in) 40. High-ranking lords 41. Belittle 42. Damn 43. Bus terminus 44. Showery 47. From US Arctic state 51. More effortless 52. Stage players 53. Seniors 54. Plan 58. Church table 59. Dine late 61. Coffee sediment 63. Narrow land links 64. Spice 65. Satay kernel 66. Ballroom favourite 68. Heroic tales 71. Enthusiasm

78. Overblown publicity

LAST WEEKS ANSWERS

Missing Link Solution:

32. Cash machine (1,1,1)

Fill in each letter of

CCN

29. Unruly demonstrators

MISSING LINK

S H E C A X C E H K N I I E A I A A EG L M I S C I NC E E S A S T O E S S L A U A K O I T T K

Fill in each letter of the alphabet once only.

1. Untie 4. Insistent 8. Windmill arm 11. Desert water hole 13. Early Peruvians 15. Creme de la creme 17. Indian mausoleum, ... Mahal 18. River mammal 20. Transgression 21. Helmet peak 24. Painter’s tripod 27. Public house 28. Hideous monsters 30. Cavalry spear 31. Bellows DOWN 33. Infuse 34. AWOL student 35. Scandinavian city 1. Applications 36. Unassuming 2. Performing 39. Swarmed 3. Cereal grass 42. Sounded like crow 4. Unchanged (2,2) 44. Comprehend writing 5. Stellar 45. South Korean capital 6. Miserable 46. Cul-de-sac, ... end 7. Nervous twitches 48. Drummer, Ringo ... 8. Wine keg 49. Beg 9. In motion 50. Tiny landmass 10. Receive (salary) 52. Eventuated 12. VII 54. Skyrocket Gut part the alphabet once14. only. 55. Cheeky 16. Fierce felines 56. Chooses (government) 19. Happen next 57. “No” votes 22. Dispatched 60. Young children 23. Martini garnishes 25. TV reception pole 62. Agreement

26. Obliterated

72. Jet-baths

S I N

MISSING LINK H O U Z G O I N T E E E MA A S I A T E

65. Former Spanish currency unit 67. Native American tent 69. Leader 70. Animal skin disease 72. Drain 73. Top layer 75. Very pale 77. Expression of disgust 79. Needle stab 81. Fellow 82. Fizzy 84. Fees 85. Up in the air 86. Fair to middling (2-2) 87. Corrected (wrong) 88. Muscle firmness

M T S I Z E N P V I C E I R E EGO W S C S A S H B U QU A C T K

K T S S H E A F C A X H K N I T GA L I A A L M I X I E NC E E T OD E S S L A K J O I S T N Y

74. Soviet region (1,1,1,1) 76. Principal 80. Dove call 83. Rear © 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

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OUT&ABOUT PAGE 23 24 DECEMBER 2020

DOWN IN THE GARDEN : FABULOUS FRANGIPANI into a pot of course sand and water well. Continue watering weekly and once roots form, transplant into your desired final position. Frangipani can be grown from seed and the interesting thing is that you will not obtain the exact same plant as you have. If you are lucky enough to have seed pods appear on your frangipani then by all means plant and look forward to a surprise. These seed pods do not always occur because their pollinator, the Sphinx Moth (Sphingidae), is not endemic to our areas. You can assist pollination by hand using fine wire to move pollen around the throat of the flowers. Healthcare

CHERALYN DARCEY

As the festive season blankets many parts of the world with images of snow, holly and winter dusted pine trees, here on the East Coast of Australia we look forward to the warm summer nights filling with the perfume of delightful frangipani (Plumeria spp.). So deep is our love affair with this easy to grow tree that one could easily be mistaken in thinking it was one of our natural natives. In fact, it is native to Central America and Mexico – but, fortunately, it just feels right at home here on the Central Coast. Frangipani History Early written history shows frangipani was favoured by the early Mayans. The Aztecs also used frangipani in elixirs to instil bravery in their warriors as well as beat general lethargy. Myths that have persisted into modern day in Mexico tell of gods being born from frangipani flowers. The tree is now found in suitable environments throughout the world. Priests shared frangipani throughout the world while travelling and establishing missions. At some point, it became the floral emblem of the city of Palermo, Sicily and the national tree of Nicaragua and of Laos where it is held as most sacred. All Buddhist temples across this country have a frangipani tree growing in their gardens as a connection to this sacredness. Hindu brides wear them as a symbol of their loyalty to their husbands and in China they are given to lovers to say ‘you are special and ‘I love you’ because of their rarity in this land. Across Polynesia the frangipani is worn by women to indicate their relationship status – behind the left ear if they are taken and the right if they are seeking a new partner. The Language of Flowers tells us frangipani means love that will withstand distance, freedom, welcome, immortality, strength and love in general. Where, When and How Most of us have the room to bring frangipani into our lives and gardens. They are slow growing, in fact most only grow about 20cm per year, and while this may not suit the impatient ‘instant tree’ folk, it is a trait that makes them perfect for many other uses. This along with their non-invasive, small ball, makes this summer favourite perfect for just about anywhere including large containers that can sit happily on sunny balconies and patios. Remember, Frangipani sap is toxic and a skin

irritant so care must be taken with placement and with handling during gardening. You will also need to be aware that frangipani will take a few years until the first flowers appear and that the vast majority are deciduous, meaning they will lose all their foliage in winter. Most standard types attaining a height of up to 6m with an umbrella shape to them and while they will tolerate light frosts, frangipani do far better in frost-free areas. They need a free-draining sandy soil and detest getting wet feet so be careful not to overwater. In winter, watering should be ceased altogether unless usually dry or hot days occur. If you have a clay soil, they will struggle, and this is the number one reason this beautiful tree fails to thrive and can even die. Although they can grow in most places, sun is critical and full sun most of the day is required. They also respond very well to a fish-based fertiliser and seaweed-based fertilisers and an increase in phosphorus can boost your summer flower show. Ensure that the root area is well mulched but allow space around the trunk to avoid water pooling. The Colours of Summer Aside from its delectable perfume, frangipani is now available in over 300 identified colourways – that’s right, 300! They will generally flower across the Central Coast from late November through until midApril. From whites through to creams, yellows, oranges, apricots, pinks of all shades to vibrant reds and on to even purple shades. Here are a few that you might consider for your garden. (A little tip, any named ‘ruba’ will have the strongest scent.) Common Frangipani (Plumeria alba) big beautiful trees and the stuff that millions of artworks, textile and home décor designs are based on. Fruit Salad Frangipani (Pulmeria acutifolia ‘Rubra’) is what grows in my garden and is my firm favourite. They are a tricolour plant variety that has a yellow centre melting to white and then tinged in pinks. Petite Pink Frangipani (Plumeria obtusa Dwarf) a popular potted frangipani that also works well as a hedge. Singapore Plumeria (Plumeria obtusa) also known as Pagoda Tree and Singapore Graveyard

Tree; this frangipani grows sweetly fragrant flowers in bunches. Darwin Blood Red Frangipani (Plumeria ruba) is probably a must for tropical inspired gardens with its brilliant re blossoms and deep coloured branches. North Queensland Blue Frangipani (Plumeria spp.) with its intoxicating fragrance and what appear to be blue flowers, this rare variety is much desired plant collectors and the frangipani obsessed. The blooms are not really blue but rather a light dusty purple that appear blue to the eye. Native Frangipani (Hymenosporum flavum) is not related to what we think of as ‘frangipani’ and although the fragrance is similar, closer observation will bear this out – the trees have a distinctive bark, are evergreen and the flowers are a lot smaller in size. Frangipani Propagation If you already have a magnificent frangipani or have found a neighbourhood specimen that you are lusting after, the best news is that creating a new frangipani tree is easy! You simply plant a branch in a pot, or the ground and a new tree is born. A few tips though to ensure your baby grows up health and strong. Cuttings can be taken at any time but the best time to ensure viability is to take a cutting from an existing tree from late spring to early summer. Hurry up -there is still time. There are a few methods of propagation, but this is my tried-and-true Coastie-method. Carefully remove any flowers and leaves from the lower 6cm and then place upright along an outside shaded wall or fence that is protected from rain and water for about a month. You could also keep in a dry and well-ventilated shed or garage. Once the end has completely dried out, plant Coast Coconut and Frangipani Beauty Oil This is my favourite and very easy recipe for a soothing and repairing face and all over body oil. GATHER 500ml jar with lid 500ml organic coconut oil loose cup of frangipani flowers fine mesh sieve smaller jar/jars to bottle

Tip: Pruning is not recommended at all and, if done, it is preferable to remove entire branches. Pruning outer/upper branches away will encourage, like most plants, a denser appearance as additional lower branches will then shoot. If your tree is very large, then you may also find that removing a few branches will assist the tree to become healthier and stronger as there will be less competition for food, sunlight and water. Occasionally in a frangipani with numerous branches, you may find inner and lower branches appearing black and withering – this is usually because small branches within the tree structure are not receiving adequate sunlight and need to be removed quickly before the rot sets in. To prune your frangipani use a sharp handsaw or loppers or even a chainsaw and ensure all cuts are vertical to stop pooling of water on the open areas to avoid rot. This tree can suffer from what is known as ‘frangipani rust’. It looks like the leaves are mottled in brown and dark patches on the top of leaves and you will see yellow pustules beneath them. A copper-based fungicide is the answer and must be applied to all surfaces and dropped leaves disposed of in the regular rubbish bin (but if the tree is overly affected, unfortunately you may have to remove entirely). UPCOMING GARDEN EVENTS This week I’m sharing a few online events and upcoming courses for those ‘stuck at home’: Sydney University - Beginner Gardening Course is enrolling now https://cce.sydney.edu.au/ course/GDNB Virtual Tour of Sydney Royal Botanic Garden https://www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/Learn/LivingLearning/Virtual-Tours Free Online Kids Gardening Ideas and classes https://www.kidspot.com.au/things-to-do/ collection/gardening-for-kids 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

Sterilize washed jar by placing it in a preheated oven (160C) for 10 minutes. Let cool and then rinse and air-dry frangipani flowers for a couple of hours until no water remains. Place flowers in the jar and fill with coconut oil. If oil has solidified, melt in microwave or by placing in a double boiler for a few minutes. Seal with lid and then place

outside or on a window ledge so it catches as much sun as possible – this helps break down the frangipani flowers naturally to extract as much of the beneficial oils as possible. Shake ever day or so and after a fortnight, strain with fine mesh sieve into sterilized small jars or bottles. Discard the frangipanis. Massage a few drops into face and body as required. Use within 6 months.

PAGE 24 24 DECEMBER 2020 OUT&ABOUT

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White Island eruption tribute

Pete Rush's latest beach sculpture has been revealed at Killcare Beach. This sculpture is a collie dog complete with a mask made from local mud. The two-metre high sculpture is a tribute to the brave young woman, Stephanie Browitt, 23, who survived the devastating White Island eruption in New Zealand, and her collie who has helped her recover from major facial and hand plastic surgery. David Abrahams

Photo: Tim Freer

300 and counting – Christmas hampers for the community

The staff at Kariong Neighbourhood Centre spent a day packing over 300 Christmas hampers for delivery to Central Coast residents recently.

General Manager Shayne Silvers said members of the Trouvalukers provided entertainment on the day to add a festive feel. “It was wonderful to have the talented members of our very own Trouvalukers group join us on the day playing and singing Christmas songs for us,” Silvers said. “Hamper packing is always a hectic, fun day and we were only able to achieve this

Members of the Trouvalukers entertained on the day

through the generous support of our wonderful volunteer group who helped over a couple of days.

“Our Christmas fare was purchased through the generous support of a wonderful group of individuals

who donated money. “This same amazing group also helped us for a couple of

months prior, supporting our food relief program which we run on a Wednesday from 2-3pm.” Silvers said the hampers looked very colourful. “It was a gift to be able to share the love and be in a position to not only assist our own community, but a number of local community agencies who had called us for assistance with hampers,” she said. “It’s always encouraging to see agencies working together for the greater good of the community on the Central Coast. “This financial generosity, especially at Christmas,

provided us a great opportunity to be able to help so many with a hand up and lighten the load. “It’s been a really tough year for a lot of people, so to be able to provide Christmas food hampers on the day as well as fresh food, free sausage sizzle, water, soft drinks and provide dignity bags provided a huge buzz for the Kariong Neighbourhood Centre team. “Christmas is a time when we seek to feel warm and there’s no better way than to think about giving as much as receiving.” Source: Media release, Dec 22 Kariong Neighbourhood Centre

COASTAL DIARY

CCN

EVENTS OVER THE NEXT FEW WEEKS ON THE CENTRAL COAST SATURDAY, DEC 26 Family Fun Fair, Terrigal Memorial Foreshore, 26/12 - 17/01, 10am - 6pm

TUESDAY, DEC 29

Mariners v Jets, Central Coast Stadium, Ticketed, 6pm MONDAY, JAN 4 Learn to swim program, Toukley Aquatic Centre, 4/01 - 22/01

Belle Of The Turf Race Day, TUESDAY, JAN 5 The Entertainment Grounds Gosford, Ticketed, Pool inflatable course, 12pm - 5pm Toukley Aquatic Centre, 11am - 2pm, 5/01 - 21/01 THURSDAY, DEC 31 (tues & thurs only)

SATURDAY, JAN 9 Alliance Francaise Conversation group

- come and practice your French at any level, Ettalong Diggers, First lesson free, 10am - 12pm 0416 303 804 SUNDAY, JAN 10 Handmade on the Coast Markets, Brick Wharf Rd Reserve Woy Woy, 7am - 4pm

MONDAY, JAN 11 Subbuteo (finger football) session, Toukley Library,

10:30am - 12pm Green Living Workshops, The Entrance Community Hall, 10am - 11:30am

TUESDAY, JAN 12 Inflatable kingdom, Lake Haven Recreation Centre, 10am - 12pm

THURSDAY, JAN 14

Holiday Fun Drumming sessions, Memorial Park The Entrance, on the hour every hour between 10:30am and 1:30pm

FRIDAY, JAN 15 Carnival mask making crafternoon, Village Central Wyong, on the hour every hour from 10am to 1pm

Basketball for Beginners, SUNDAY, JAN 17 Lake Haven Recreation Centre, Umina Beach Markets, 10am and 11am sessions Peninsula Recreation Precinct,

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Basketball for Beginners, www.activeandhealthy.nsw.gov.au Lake Haven Recreation Centre, SUNDAY, JAN 31 10am and 11am sessions

SATURDAY, JAN 23

TUESDAY, JAN 19

Tuggerah Lakes Art Society: Home Baked Exhibition and Handcraft Market, Peninsula Lions Club: Sea Life painting sessions, The Entrance Community Memorial Park, The Car Boot Sale, Gallery, 23/01 - 31/01, Entrance, Dunban Road Car Park Ticketed entry on the hour every hour on the cnr of Ocean from 10am to 1pm Beach Road,

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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.

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BUSINESS & PROPERTY PAGE 25 24 DECEMBER 2020

Business & Property Rental market continues to tighten

House rental rates in postcode

The Central Coast rental property market continued to tighten in November, according to official data compiled by Gosford based data analytics firm See Change Solutions. Rental vacancies as low as 0.2 per cent of total supply at Avoca, Copacabana and

Macmasters beach were recorded. Even more established rental suburbs like Gosford have fallen to 0.4 per cent of total supply. For the broader Central Coast, the rental vacancy rate fell to an average of 0.4 per cent in November, down from 2.5 per cent in May.

Rental vacancies vs Airbnb rates

According to Domain, vacancy rate of 3 per cent is where rental demand and supply are in equilibrium. Director of See Change Solutions, Patrick Spedding, said such low rental vacancies have a real impact on weekly rental rates which continue to trend upwards. The average weekly house

(three bedroom) rental rates were $493 in the Gosford/Erina 2250 postcode, $373 at Doyalson, postcode 2262 and as high as $595 at Avoca, postcode 2251. Spedding also draws in Airbnb data to help explain these rental trends. Airbnb occupancy rates across many waterside

suburbs have been remarkably high for many months, with numerous suburbs such as Budgewoi, Toukley, Killcare and Umina Beach recording over 50 per cent occupancy rates in November. The overall average Central Coast occupancy rate was a remarkably high 45%. Central Coast Newspapers is

following this story closely and encourages readers to contact us with their own experiences in the rental market. See our website for contact details. CCN report

Big price for Wyoming medical centre A Wyoming medical centre has sold at auction for almost $2M. Burgess Rawson selling agent, Michael Gilbert, said the recent sale of the medical centre in Renwick St for $1,890,000 is a clear indication

of the rising value of medical centres in the wake of the COVID-19 global pandemic. The property has a 2,207sqm landholding and is situated upon a prime highway roundabout corner exposed to over 25,790 cars daily.

Gilbert said the centre’s easy accessibility created strong interest. “This property has many attractions, not least its on-site parking for 15 vehicles as well the adjacent popular dental practice and nearby Hungry Jacks,” he said.

“The region’s population is predicted to grow by 18 per cent to 414,615 by 2036, meaning that large land parcels should be increasingly hard to find. “With the forthcoming rollout of vaccines around the corner, the investors and

current medical centre tenanting the space with a three-year lease to 2022 plus options, are positioned extremely well.” Gilbert said the centre has a net income of $94,064 + GST. The property sold under the

hammer on December 8 at the Sydney Opera House, at Burgess Rawson’s end of year Portfolio Auction. Source: Media release, Dec 14 Burgess Rawson

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New boarding house proposal for Ourimbah A new proposal for a boarding house at 2-6 Glen Rd, Ourimbah, for students and young professionals is now on public exhibition.

An artist’s impression of the proposed boarding house in Ourimbah (Project Works Design)

Plans for the three-storey accommodation comprise 53 self-contained rooms made up of 37 double rooms, 11 single, four accessible rooms and an on-site manager’s residence. There are communal areas on each level and open space including extensive landscaping at ground level. This proposal is a revised version of a previous application first put to the former Wyong council in 2013 for 101 boarding rooms, which was later reduced to 83 rooms and

granted development consent. That development consent lapsed, meaning this fresh development application (DA 1249/2020) was required. This current proposal employs the same building envelope and footprint as conditionally approved previously by the Hunter Central Coast Regional Planning Panel, however, the number of rooms has been significantly reduced to 53. The Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) submitted with the DA says it is suitable for student or young professional accommodation given the accessible location with connections to public transport, shops, services, recreation as well as Ourimbah

campus of Newcastle University and TAFE. It fits in with the walkable neighbourhood objective of the planning guidelines and will provide affordable student accommodation of which there is a shortage, the SEE says. A key consideration is the future of expansion of the university, covered in the Ourimbah Masterplan, and the SEE points out this accommodation will support that growth. Submissions to the proposal will be accepted by Central Coast Council until February 8, 2021. Sue Murray

PowerHousing Award caps off big year for Pacific Link With a new social housing development under construction on the Peninsula and another in the pipeline, Central Coastbased Pacific Link Housing has finished 2020 with some significant award wins and achievements. The Tier 1 Community Housing Provider (CHP), received a national award with PowerHousing Australia, recognising its outstanding efforts in providing affordable housing and support for those in need in difficult COVID-19 impacted times. In addition to this, Pacific Link Housing won the Housing Industry Association (HIA) Hunter Housing Award for Affordable Housing Project of the Year in partnership with Kingston Building Australia for a mixed tenancy development at Glendale. Most recently, Pacific Link

won the prestigious Urban Design Institute Design (UDIA) NSW Affordable Housing Development of the Year Award in partnership with Evolve Housing for a development at Roselands. Pacific Link Housing Chairman Wal Edgell said the award wins have come at an extremely exciting and pivotal time in the organisation’s 35-year history. Despite the difficult operating challenges faced during the past year, Pacific Link Housing has celebrated many recent successes, he said. “Within the last 12 months Pacific Link Housing has built 51 affordable homes for those people in our community in greatest need, secured significant low-cost finance to deliver additional housing stock, moved to new premises and successfully implemented a new housing first program to assist people experiencing

Pacific Link Housing Chairman, Wal Edgell (centre) at the beginning of construction on the Peninsula development on November 16, with MARS Building Director, Michael Boyd (left) and Pacific Link Housing Director, Stephen Brahams

homelessness during COVID-19,” Edgell said. “The development awards reflect the quality of design and

construction in the new homes delivered which is a reflection of the experienced and capable team at Pacific Link Housing,

from Board level, all the way through the organisation, and are just rewards for the dedication and commitment of the entire team. “On top of this, we are delighted to have recently commenced construction on our latest development on the Peninsula which will provide 12 one and two-bedroom units to mainly assist women aged over 55 who are struggling to afford housing in the current difficult rental market.” The PowerHousing Award recognised the significant efforts of Pacific Link Housing and its support partner, Uniting Central Coast, in successfully housing 30 tenants in a newly completed development during the height of COVID-19 lockdowns. Many of the tenants were in crisis accommodation and required additional support to settle into their new home.

CEO, Ian Lynch, was delighted with the award and said successful partnerships with wider community groups provided opportunities for tenants to build pathways out of homelessness. “A home is just the first step,” he said. “It is collaborative partnerships and community assistance that ensure those people most in need are provided with the necessary care and support to rebuild their lives. “Next year is set to be an even greater challenge, with a significant development pipeline ahead of us, and continually looking to strengthen relationships with all levels of government and the commercial and CHP sectors broadly. Source: Media release, Dec 15 Pacific Link Housing

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BUSINESS & PROPERTY PAGE 27 24 DECEMBER 2020

Uniform planning rules for entire region The new consolidated Central Coast Local Environment Plan (LEP) and Development Control Plan (DCP) will not come into force until the State Government gazettes them - which is not expected now until early next year. The plans were adopted by the Administrator at the December 14 meeting of Council but the Council still has some work to do before submitting the documents to the State Government for sign off. The two planning instruments harmonise the guidelines that are used for development applications and planning proposals across the Coast. Once gazetted, the consolidated instruments will allow dual occupancies in the former Gosford council area. Under the old LEP, the former

Gosford area only allowed secondary dwellings in R2 zones. The new rules mean better planning outcomes because secondary dwellings that apply under the dual occupancy rules can be bigger and must take into account parking and private open space requirements. In the Woy Woy peninsula area in particular, this gives residents more choices. The consolidated LEP retained the 8.5m maximum building height in the former Gosford council area R2 Low Density Residential zone; and kept the 550m2 minimum lot size where it currently applies in the R2 Low Density Residential zone in the former Gosford Council area. After listening to community feedback the Council also removed the small lot housing from R2 zoned lands in the

Administrator Dick Persson

Wyong area but kept its minimum lot size. The consolidated LEP was the review of existing controls. Mostly it retained the existing

zones, not upzoning or downzoning land. Where there were differences between the former Gosford and former Wyong council

areas, one control was chosen to be universal across the Coast - except for the minimum lot size where Council decided to run with both. The current DCP Floodplain Management controls have been adopted - for the present. The Council is working on bringing maps up to a contemporary standard; that should be sorted by April. What is a DCP and a LEP? The LEP outlines the zoning of land, and what development and activities are allowed in each zone and any special provisions applying to land, such as heritage requirements. The DCP identifies Council’s required design and construction standards. It includes topics such setbacks and height restrictions, access to sunlight, and who needs to be told when someone wants to develop

their land. When the Council was created from the merger of the former Wyong and Gosford councils, their LEPs and DCPs had to be consolidated. That is what has now been achieved. The consolidated DCP and LEP are only step one on a long journey to a Comprehensive LEP. They also include waterways. For example, in the past there were no rules on slipways in either Gosford or Wyong’s DCP. The CCLEP was prepared as a Digital Environmental Planning Instrument and is a digital mapping pilot project for the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment and Council. This is a catalyst project for the rest of NSW moving to digital LEP mapping. Merilyn Vale

What about the deferred matters? The newly adopted consolidated Central Coast Local Environment Plan (CCLEP) covers 95 per cent of land on the Central Coast - but what about the other five per cent? These are known as the “deferred matters” and relate to about 4000 blocks of land in the former Gosford council area, mainly in the Matcham area, that are zoned environmental lands. The environmental lands are currently all zoned under two zonings: 7a and 7c2. Under the new LEP these lands have to be rezoned under four environmental zones although only three relate to private land as the fourth is for national parks. It is a priority focus for the

Council and it is a challenge. “A lot of people don’t want to be down zoned in terms of 7c2 to E2 because they can do less and some people are of the belief if they are 7a or 7c2 zone and they are close to residential zones, they should be rezoned to residential,” Director of Environment and Planning Scott Cox said. The Council is currently reviewing the zonings in an environmental and urban edge review of the Gosford area lands and a second environmental review incorporating both the former Wyong and Gosford council areas is asking the question: is this the right zone? “With the Wyong component of environmental lands, which have already been rezoned into the E-zonings, there may be

parcels of land that have ecological value that we think may need to be an environmental zone or the alternative: it might be why did it get zoned environmental - it may be better as public open space or something like that,” Cox said. Council hopes to finish the review by June 2021; it is a high priority.” This means public consultation will take place earlier than June. Once the deferred matters are resolved, the Council will remove another three planning instruments from its books and will have achieved true consolidation. It will also be the first stage to moving to one Comprehensive LEP, which is the next step up from its consolidated LEP. The two former councils used

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the same standard instrument LEP template but the environmental zones and development standards were not applied in the same manner, nor with the same intent. During the Council meeting of December 14, when the draft LEP was adopted by the Council, a number of residents spoke about the zoning of their lands. As part of the changes that will be made, some businesses that were allowed in Gosford’s environmental zones will be taken out. For example bed and breakfast in the E2 zone and hotels in E4 zones. Council owns environmental lands that will be rezoned E2 as part of the deferred lands. These are the COSS lands (Coastal Open Space System)

that are in the former Gosford council area. The Community Environment Network (CEN) has welcomed Council’s decision to defer zoning COSS land until the completion of the environmental lands study but said an E2 zone would “not work” for COSS”. CEN Executive Member Gary Chestnut said deferral provided an opportunity to revisit adding an E5 Environmental Zone to the NSW Government’s Standard Instrument for zoning land. “CEN has written to the Minister for Planning, Rob Stokes, to ask him to take the final step and sign off on the introduction of an E5 zone which could be used for our COSS and for publicly-owned environmental lands across the state,” Chestnut said.

But Council said support for the rezoning COSS lands to E2 Environmental Conservation was evident at community consultation sessions and in submissions received. “As such all Deferred Matters Land which is identified as Council owned COSS will be rezoned as exhibited to E2 Environmental Conservation to ensure a greater level of protection is provided to these lands with high environmental and scenic value. “Landowners of parcels deferred from the CCLEP will be further consulted through the Environmental Lands Review project prior to any land use zoning change being made to their land.” Merilyn Vale

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BUSINESS & PROPERTY PAGE 29 24 DECEMBER 2020

Jilliby rezone plan to go to Minister A Planning Proposal to rezone 85.56ha of Jilliby land for rural residential development will now go to the NSW Planning Minister for consideration. It is expected the Jilliby proposal will yield about 19 rural residential lots, off Hue

Hue Rd close to the Sparks Rd M1 interchange. Part of the land will be rezoned E3 Environmental Management (21.6ha) and the remainder to E4 Environmental Living (63.96ha). The subject lots in Sandra St, Jilliby, earmarked for

Environment Living are numbers 40, 50, and 80 while numbers 60 and 70 will be Environment Management, which will create a green corridor through the middle of the overall site. Another site at 11 Cottesloe Rd will be rezoned to Environmental Living.

A copy of the draft charter was circulated for review to Council’s social inclusion committee in October. The committee voiced its frustration way back in February about the delay in this policy. But it has now seen the draft and is providing feedback. Eventually the policy will go to the council for adoption. The committee minutes explain that the Charter will complement various strategies and policies already in place within Council and provide an overarching structure for inclusion. Feedback from the committee was in the minutes that Administrator Dick Persson received and noted at the December 14 council meeting. Committee members said it was important for people to understand how the Charter will be used once it is endorsed. It will mean all Council

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policies/projects would need to align with the Charter. It was suggested that this assertion be included in the Charter, as well as specific criteria or targets to ensure compliance and to measure success. The committee discussed the language used and talked about the difference between equality and equity – the word equity being used in the Charter. It was noted that the language used was in accordance with national standards. The committee suggested that the charter’s preamble should include the need to address the concept that “our society was inherently inequitable and outline exactly what social inclusion is and why it’s needed”. The minutes show it was noted that improving social inclusion has significant economic value leading to quality health and wellbeing, increased employment opportunities, and ultimately greater outcomes for the

10, which deemed rezoning to have merit and that Council should proceed with a Planning Proposal. The Planning Proposal for the Jilliby rural residential area will now go to the NSW Planning Minister to decide whether it should proceed, with or without variation, known as a Gateway

Determination. Some matters requiring more detailed investigation and community consultation will follow the outcome of the Minister’s Gateway Determination. Sue Murray

We’re worth the money, says LPP

Social Inclusion Charter getting close A Social Inclusion Charter written by Central Coast Council is getting closer to its first public outing.

The land varies from cleared grazing land through to lightly timbered pastureland and slopes. Administrator, Dick Persson, and Council staff undertook a site inspection in November and the matter was reviewed by the Central Coast Local Planning Panel on December

region. It said the Charter shouldn’t just add bureaucratic layers – it should fit well with existing documents to reduce overlapping. Members of the committee were keen to see more mention of advocacy in the Charter, with the view that Council take on a more active role in advocating for social inclusion on behalf of the community. The ABS figures were discussed as they showed low numbers, seeming to indicate the community isn’t as diverse as suggested. “Noted this may mean more support is needed, as disadvantaged groups are underrepresented,” the minutes stated. It was important to ensure the Charter is known to all staff, but that its effects are also experienced externally, the minutes concluded. The review is continuing. The committee meets again this month. Merilyn Vale

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We would like to wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy, healthy and prosperous new year. Our office will be closed on December 23, 2020 and will remain so until January 11, 2021

We are worth the money, says the Local Planning Panel (LPP), which in July took over the role of determining some development applications that used to go to Central Coast Council meetings. The cost of the LPP is carried by the Council, thanks to the NSW Government’s planning act. The four panel members are paid from a minimum of $500 per meeting for the community member, $1500 for the two professional representatives and a minimum of $2000 per meeting for the chairperson plus GST. The LPP has taken issue with a Council report that outlined the estimated cost of the panel. The LPP said it rejects the value for money implications in the report. The panel, chaired by Donna Rygate, also questioned estimates of the meeting costs and the suggestion of significantly increased costs if face to face meetings were to be held. The Council report said the

sitting fees and travel expenses of the panel members totalled about $6,570 per meeting and the costs grew to $11,865 when counting the additional cost of Council staff and secretariat services. These estimates are based on the conduct of remote meetings. “It assumes costs would increase were meetings conducted in person, as a result of booking meeting space, catering, cleaning, and security,” the report said. The panel members conduct site visits and read lengthy reports before meeting via zoom to determine applications. The panel accepted the report at its December 10 meeting but said “....the Panel rejects the value for money implications in the paper, and questions the full meeting cost estimate provided in the paper and its suggestion of significantly increased costs were face to face meetings held”. It also noted Council’s intention to pay “business undertaken outside of meetings” rates for matters

determined by circulation of papers only. That rate is significantly lower, ranging from $71 per hour for the community member to $214 for the professionals and $285 for the chair. The report included changes to the panel’s operation and its meeting dates for next year. The panel agreed that objections should reach 15 before a matter is brought to panel. Other reasons a development proposal might go before the panel included contentious proposals and Council-owned applications. The councillors voted for the panel in May but noted that they were opposed to it and they wanted the community to understand it was being imposed by the State Government. Since then, the councillors have been suspended by the State Government for financial issues and an administrator has taken their place. Merilyn Vale

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Lemon Myrtle Caramels

GEORGIA LIENEMANN Lemon Myrtle Caramels Well this is it folks, my last column for the year and I thought we’d go out with a bang. Just in case you can get your hands on some fresh lemon myrtle leaves, this is my all-time favourite caramels recipe – with an Australian twist. Lemon myrtle is one of my all-time favourite native plants. It is often referred to as the “Queen of the lemon herbs” and was revered as a potent healer in indigenous medicine – and we now know why. It’s one of the most powerfully antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant herbs ever discovered! It also makes what is arguably the world’s most delicious tea and is exceptionally easy to grow in pots, so well worth getting yourself a plant from a local nursery. Lemon Myrtle has two predominant essential oils. One is citral – and it’s the richest natural source of this oil. The second is citronellal, which is an excellent insect repellant. The plant’s properties have been investigated by scientists at Charles Sturt University. When

undergoing the Rideal-Walker test which assesses anti-microbial activity, it received a coefficient rating of 16, where Tea tree scored 11, and Eucalyptus, only 8. In other studies, its antimicrobial activity was shown to be 30% higher than Tea Tree oil. So, a superfood by any definition, but most especially when fear rages high about germs and thorough sanitisation! Now, it goes without saying that there are healthier ways to enjoy the health benefits of lemon myrtle, however as we all know, caramels are exceptionally good for the soul. And soul food is especially important at this time of year. So, let’s have a closer look at our star ingredients. Unrefined sugars When you’re choosing sugars to make good caramel, the heavily refined versions are much, much easier to work with as they result in a smoother texture, but who wants to sacrifice all those lovely minerals and unparalleled flavour found in the unrefined options? I’ve experimented

Lemon myrtle recipe: honey & crème fraîche caramels Yield: 16 caramels I’m well aware of the fact that everyone approaches candymaking differently. It’s usually a combination of available equipment and personality. I’m going to offer all 3 options, so that everyone is happy. 1) You have a candy thermometer: I will give you exact temperatures to follow. 2) You don’t have one, but like to ‘freestyle’ and aren’t too fussed if the caramels are a tad too chewy or brittle for your liking: I’ve given you accurate timings / instructions. 3) You’re missing a thermometer, yet keen on a particular result: I will give you the ‘stage’, so that you can use the iced water method to check. Simply fill a small jug with iced water and drop in half a teaspoon of hot caramel so you can feel its final texture as it cools. If you’re new to this method, do a quick google search for a rundown of the different stages. Note: this is a fairly small portion of caramels, which is perfect for our house. If you want to double the recipe, you’ll need to adjust the timing accordingly.

with many types over the years and settled on maple syrup and honey as my favourites, although the latter creates a much sweeter caramel - slightly too sweet for me! Lemon myrtle When it comes to lemon myrtle recipes, fresh leaves trump the dried variety, by a mile. So if you’re lucky enough to get your hands on a branch or two from a kind neighbour (and happen to own a Thermomix or high powered blender), the clever way to preserve the beautiful aromatic flavour is to blitz them into a fine, dry mass and freeze it in a ziplock bag. It lasts for months and you can simply add a pinch here and there to your cooking. (Or make a cup of what is arguably the best tea in the world!) The other way to prepare the leaves – and to be honest, I prefer this method for the caramels, as it’s a tad less stringy – is to slice out the middle stems and lay a few leaves on top of each other, roll them up and finely slice them. Then use a chef’s knife to mince them extremely finely, as you would any other herb.

Ingredients 1/3 cup crème fraiche or sour cream 25g salted butter 2/3 cup maple syrup (or honey) ¼ cup water ½ tsp fine sea salt 1 tsp vanilla essence 2 tsp ground or finely minced fresh lemon myrtle (about 6 leaves) Instructions 1. L ine a small 10cm2 pan or dish with baking paper. 2. I n a small pot, combine the crème fraiche and butter over very low heat (keep an eye on it and if it produces anything more than a gentle simmer, remove it from the heat). 3. W hilst that’s heating, combine all the other ingredients in a medium-large saucepan and allow it to boil, without stirring, over high heat for around 7 minutes, ensuring that it doesn’t bubble over. (130C/265F - hard ball stage) 4. V ery carefully pour the crème fraiche into your hot sugar mixture. It tends to splash and spit, at the beginning, so pour

Crème fraîche We always have lots of homemade crème fraiche on hand because I enjoy making it myself. It’s easy - simply stir in a tablespoon of whey and leave it on the bench until it thickens! If I didn’t have such a preference for cultured cream, I would have never discovered the beautiful depth of flavour it adds to my caramels. It was simply a case of having no regular cream in the fridge when I was hit with the urge to make them! Rest assured that store-bought sour cream will do nicely too. Chewy or toffee-like? As with all things, I go through phases of preferring them one way or the other. Right now, I can’t quite remember why I used to love brittle, toffee-like shards as I’m hooked on the soft, chewy texture of traditional caramel. And with candy-making, it all comes down to length of cooking time, so I’ve included instructions for both methods below.

very slowly at first. 5. Stir the mixture until it’s smooth, then continue to stir on medium-high heat for around 2-3 minutes, until the mixture thickens. (120C/248F - firm ball stage) This will yield a soft, chewy caramel. To get a toffee-like consistency, continue stirring for an additional minute, making sure it doesn’t burn. (143C/289F - soft crack stage) 6. Remove from the heat and allow the mixture to cool for 2 minutes before adding the lemon myrtle and stirring to combine. Transfer the caramel into your pan and allow it to cool on the bench for at least 2 hours. 7. Use the paper to lift the caramel out of the tray and a large, sharp knife to slice it into squares. To make slicing easier, you can heat the knife either by dipping it into a jug of boiling water or holding it for a few seconds over a gas stove. It’s best to wrap the caramels individually in waxed paper or cellophane to help them keep their shape. Well that’s it for the year, folks! Wishing you a relaxing festive season and I’m looking forward to sharing more with you in the new year.

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE PAGE 31 24 DECEMBER 2020

New machine streamlines radiotherapy A machine able to deliver radiation doses more quickly to cancer patients now resides at Central Coast Cancer Centre in Gosford. The Linear Accelerator (LINAC) has become one of three others, helping to reduce treatment times for cancer patients. Director of Medical Physics, Chris Lee, said the complex linear design is a world-leading machine. “Radiotherapy is a very technology advanced field of medicine and is continually evolving,” Lee said. “This machine allows us to be on the crest of the technology evolution wave because if you fall behind, it is very hard to

keep up. “It allows us to extend the already high-quality service that we deliver here at on the Central Coast and enables us to do very sophisticated techniques and that what we are looking forward to. “This machine is going to set us up for the next 10 years.” Linear Accelerators are used to administer radiation to cancer patients, allowing doctors to target cancer cells while protecting the surrounding healthy tissue. The new machine improves the treatment of patients with intracranial brain tumours, allowing patients with multiple tumours to have them treated simultaneously. The installation is thanks to a

$3.8M investment from the Federal Government. Federal Member for Robertson Lucy Wicks said the new linear accelerator would significantly reduce treatment times for patients. “Patients with certain types of cancer will now be able to receive treatment two to three times faster than previously possible,” Wicks said. “We know that cancer is an incredibly tough and difficult journey for patients and their loved ones. “I am proud to be part of a government that is determined to make that journey just a little bit easier by providing worldclass health services right here on the Central Coast.” Jacinta Counihan

Member for Robertson Lucy Wicks (left) and medical staff with the new machine

Support is available if you’re feeling anxious, down or alone Lifeline in the Hunter and Central Coast is preparing to help hundreds of people this Christmas who, rather than being relieved and excited about the arrival of the holiday season, may be feeling anxious, down, or alone. There is no need for a referral at Lifeline and the counselling service is free. Lifeline Direct Counselling Services Manager, Will Nesbitt, says that for many, Christmas and New Year can be reminders of those who have passed, breakdowns in relationships or financial distress. “It can be a very difficult time that sees the Lifeline Crisis Line increase with callers and a real need for our counselling service,” Nesbitt said. “The face-to-face counselling

service is available in the Central Coast, Newcastle, and surrounds. “We all know how the first Christmas without a brother, sister, mother, father or child is incredibly sad. “We feel the absence of loved ones because it is a time when families have routines where we get together and there is a role for everyone. “For people with family members who are ill in hospital or in a nursing home this Christmas will be like no other. “The freedom we had prior to COVID-19 where we could visit our loved ones whenever we wish has changed – many people will be unable to visit their family in hospital or in nursing homes due to regulated restrictions. “This brings an enormous level of sadness and distress. “This year financial pressures

will also be significant for many people. “The impact of COVID19 means there are people in our communities that are out of work or working fewer hours that they would like. “Some might not be able to celebrate the way they would normally, or they may not have the income to holiday this year or provide for their children the way they would like to. “For some people, an impending period of loneliness is a trigger for anxiety and depression. “Shops and community centres are closed, there may not be many friends or loved ones nearby and the routine of their everyday is disturbed. Nesbitt urged anyone getting anxious, having difficulty sleeping, feeling sad or depressed to have a plan in place.

“This could mean talking to a friend, booking an appointment with one of our local counsellors or calling the Lifeline Crisis line. “Our counselling is having a cuppa with someone who cares and has some ideas to help you through tough times. “A counselling appointment

takes about an hour and often you might choose to come back a few or more times for second or third meetings. To make an appointment call 1300 152 854. If you need support Lifeline’s Crisis Support 13 11 14 services is available 24hrs a

day, 365 days a year. If you’re finding it hard to talk, text 0477 13 11 14 from 6pmmoidnight seven 7 days a week. Source: Media release, Dec 17 Lifeline

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Healthy lifestyle program returns in 2021 A free online healthy lifestyle program for older adults living on the Central Coast will return in 2021. Healthy and Active for Life is available for people aged 60 or over, or 45 or over for people who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. It aims to support older people to live independently by increasing their knowledge, skills and confidence in how to lead active and healthy lives, while also helping to prevent falls. Programs will run four times over the year, with the first of the year starting on Monday, January 25, although registrations close one week prior. The program will run for 10 weeks, with self-paced interactive healthy eating and lifestyle modules supported by exercise videos to do in your home each week. Participants will also receive

bespoke phone support from a local trained coach at times that suit them. Healthy and Active for Life is a NSW Health state-wide initiative which launched in October this year. It is facilitated on the Central Coast by the Local Health District’s Health Promotion Service. Leanne Andrew, health promotion officer at the Central Coast Health Promotion Service, said those who took part in the inaugural program in October found it was a great way to get active and learn about healthy lifestyle habits from the convenience and comfort of their own home. “So, for anyone who might be making a new year’s resolution to be healthier, this program is the perfect opportunity,” she said. Source: Media release, Dec 14 NSW Health

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE PAGE 33 24 DECEMBER 2020

Upgrade for COVID testing clinic Central Coast Primary Care’s COVID-19 Clinic at the EV church has received a very timely upgrade, just as testing numbers increase due to the Northern Beaches cluster. The Respiratory Clinic leases rooms from the EV church and has received extra funding from the Federal Government to continue the lease and complete renovations. The Clinic is one of the largest COVID-19 testing clinics in Australia and will continue to provide touch-free testing for over 300 people each day. The Chair of Central Coast Primary Care’s Board, Peter Coomber, said the clinic upgrade could not have happened without a combination of Federal and State Government support. “We also recognise the local businesses and tradespeople who are achieving a quick turnaround in getting a new purpose-built COVID-19

Testing Clinic up and running in four weeks,” Coomber said. Federal Member for Robertson, Lucy Wicks, said GP led Respiratory Clinics (GPRC) play a crucial role in the Australian Government’s response to COVID-19, providing free testing for patients with respiratory illness. “GPRC’s protect other general practices from potential COVID-19 cases while ensuring ongoing patient care is maintained,” Wicks said. “We have great COVID-19 testing rates here on the Central Coast. “Since May 1, 2020, the Erina GPRC has assessed more than 36,000 patients which shows how important this purposebuilt facility will be for our community.” Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch, said the work was fasttracked, with four months of approvals and construction

Federal Member for Robertson, Lucy Wicks, Chair, Central Coast Primary Care, Peter Coomber, and Member for Terrigal, Adam Crouch

undertaken in just four weeks. “Thanks to support and funding from the NSW and Australian Governments, Central Coast residents have access to the first purposebuilt COVID-19 testing clinic in the country,” Crouch said. “The recent renovations also provided work for 30 local

painters, earth-workers, carpenters and suppliers of plumbing, flooring and air conditioning.” The new Clinic will provide testing from 9am-4pm Monday to Friday, and 10am-2pm on Saturdays. Jacinta Counihan

New support space opens at Erina A support space called The Blake Room will be opened by Trusted Home Care in Fountain Plaza at Erina in the new year. The community hub will become a training area for healthcare providers, a facility for community events, a social space for those working with clients who live in isolated circumstances, and a place open to community events that promote good physical and mental health. The initiative by Trusted Home Care Owner and Director, Karen Barrett, was created in dedication to her lifelong friend

Kim Blake, whose life was tragically taken in 2015. “It is a branch of Trusted Home Care that I have been passionate about because of what happened, especially the mental health of it which we really want to focus on,” Barrett said. “We wanted to provide education, support, and create a bit of a community hub in Erina because I feel like it could be used really well as it is quite central. “I wanted to tie in everything around caring for people at home - the training for manual handling, a place for the

support workers, and any other providers who would like to use the facilities as well. “Next year we are going to put in a disabled accessible kitchen where we are going to teach life skills to people with disabilities and in chairs.” Barrett said she would be running a range of programs such as IT training for the elderly and social workshops, but the space is also available for hire by others such as RTO’s, First Aid Trainers, therapists, or healthcare providers. “I want the community to feel it is somewhere they can go

and use the facility in a central location which has good access because we are on the ground floor, and we will automate the doors,” she said. “I want it to be a bit of a feelgood space where people can come and get together.” The story of Karen Barrett and Kim Blake started in university where they met. As registered nurses, they both dedicated their professional careers to caring for others and training themselves to cater to the most complex cases. In 2012, Blake was critically injured in a road accident,

leading to her becoming disabled and living with an acquired brain injury. Previous to this, Barrett had had her first child, Eric, who was born with cerebral palsy. Having three children and caring for Eric allowed Barrett to support Blake with her disability, deepening their bond. Blake’s disability provided a heavy constraint on the lives of her husband, Geoff, and children. Tragically in 2015, her life was taken by her husband because the mental battle he had fought in silence became

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too much. He also took the lives of their three children, before driving to a dam on the property and taking his own life. Out of the tragedy which affected an entire community, Barrett’s motivation was to create an area where people can come to feel comfortable, to grow, and to receive help. “It is not a big corporate ‘let’s make money out of this’,” she said. “It is more a community space where people can feel like they are supported.” Jacinta Counihan

PAGE 34 24 DECEMBER 2020

SCIENCE & EDUCATION

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Internship for NAISDA graduate NAISDA Dance College graduate, Emily Flannery, has been selected as Lucy Guerin Inc (LGI) First Nations Intern for 2021. The paid internship, created by the critically acclaimed contemporary dance company, LGI, and NAISDA Dance College, offers a tailored program of professional opportunities to students over a five week period. The internship includes participating in LGI rehearsals and studio programs, attending industry events, and connecting

with local dance and Indigenous communities. Flannery is a proud Wiradjuri woman from Forbes and said she was excited about the opportunity to learn from one of Australia’s most forward thinking, esteemed contemporary dance companies. “(I’m excited) to witness the creation of new works, the pathways of studio to stage, to connect with other artists and to push my own boundaries as an emerging First Nations artist,” she said. Supported throughout a First

Nations mentor, the internship aims to offer an introduction to life as an independent dance artist in Melbourne. Flannery began her training at the McDonald College focusing on classical ballet. After graduating, she decided to further her studies and her connection to culture at NAISDA Dance College. While at NAISDA she was fortunate enough to spend time in both Yolngu and Moa Island communities and receive the Young Regional Artist Scholarship (YRAS) which enabled her to spend five

months at Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company in Israel during her final year of study. Since graduating, she has performed with Opera Australia, Phunktional Arts, Catapult Choreographic Hub and Karul Projects. As an emerging Indigenous dancer and choreographer, she hopes to share her culture and her spirit through movement. Source: Media eelease, Dec 17 NAISDA Dance College

Gosford High supports We Care Connect Gosford High School graduate, Karl Harris, and the school’s senior leadership team have joined forces to donate gifts to the community charity, We Care Connect. The gifts will be part of hundreds of others going to disadvantaged children aged 12-17 across the Central Coast. This is the third year Harris has been involved in a

Christmas drive, starting his first one at the school in 2018, and following it with another one in 2019. Harris said he has always been involved with We Care Connect. “My nan and grandpa founded this charity,” Harris said. “I have helped them set up the warehouse, have been involved in plenty of Bunnings barbecues, and a bunch of other miscellaneous things.

This year, Harris initiated and ran the Christmas drive himself. “Because my grandparents started it, that is why I am particularly involved with the charity,” he said. “I think it is super cool what they have done, and it is also nice to help people.” We Care Connect supports thousands of children in crisis across the Central Coast and Hunter with clothing, bedding, car seats, cots, prams and a

wide range of essential care and safety items. Over the last three years it has given over 60,000 items to more than 3500 children in need. “Gosford High School is one of the drop off points for Christmas donations and I ran that drop off point,” Harris said. “It is fun, and I think It is cool to help my grandparents with this charity,” Harris said. Jacinta Counihan

Debating team does Terrigal proud In a competition between 666 schools, the Terrigal Primary School debating team, Terrigal Tigers, have been named runners-up in the NSW Premiers Debating Challenge.

Terrigal Tigers Debate Team

The four-person team consisted of Year Six students, Zoe Smith and Coco Furniss, and Year Five students, Abby Peterson Hampshire and Sophie Semetka. Year Five teacher and Debate Team Coordinator, James Ridley, said the team was presented with the Liz Bugbird inaugural Hunter and Central

Coast shield and medallions via Zoom. “The topic for the final round was ‘All children in primary school should be taught by a different teacher each week,” Ridley said. “We were the affirmative team, which meant we agreed with it. “We had the tricky end of the deal, but they did really well. “They came up with some really strong arguments about teachers sharing the workload and children being prepared for change, and they did really well.”

Ridley said the team had to go against many local and state schools before getting to the final round. “We were against teams from Bathurst, Newcastle, Hunter Valley, Sydney and more,” he said. “We got all the way up to the final and competed against a team in Sydney. “Unfortunately, we lost, but two of the adjudicators voted for them, and one voted for us so that just shows how close the final was.” Jacinta Counihan

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SCIENCE & EDUCATION

PAGE 35 24 DECEMBER 2020

Grammar ends year on a high Central Coast Grammar School has ended the 2020 school year ranked 83rd in the Top 100 schools across NSW. Sixty per cent of students achieved an ATAR of 80 plus, 34 per cent received 90 and above, and 14 per cent received an ATAR of above 95. Headmaster, William Low, said 70 per cent of students have already received university degree offers. “The class of 2020 are a very special group of young people who have had to grow up very quickly this year, and we’re very proud of the way they have handled themselves amidst all the uncertainty,” he said. “The school has continually focused on improving the

percentage of students with an ATAR over 90, and we’re delighted that the hard work and commitment from students, staff and families have been recognised. “I personally congratulate

students and teachers for the remarkable achievements in this year’s HSC.” Low also congratulated the Dux of the school, Katelyn Williams, who was also honoured in the NESA High

Achievers list for Society and Culture. NESA also recognised a number of HSC major works; Kasey Barnes for Dance, and Leah Vitler in Year 11 who was studying HSC Accelerated

Head of Senior College, Denise McDonough, applauded students for their achievements across all subject areas and reflected on the year. “My experiences with the Year 12 students and their parents in 2020 will always remain one of the most special memories of my career,” McDonough said. “We nearly didn’t have a Leavers’ Service, a Formal and even the HSC exams were doubtful. “With creativity and ‘thinking outside the square’, we managed everything with care and safety to ensure the class of 2020 left with brilliant memories.”

Dance for Callback. For Drama; Kasey Barnes, Rhiannan Brown, Alex Cooke, Bronte Fill, Abbey Healey, Sarah Milne, Ashley Nicho; and Jade Sheridan for Industrial Technology.

Source Media release, Dec 18 Central Coast Grammar School

Coast’s Class of 2020 achieves top results They were arguably the most disadvantaged cohort to ever sit the exam, but that hasn’t stopped the Class of 2020 from excelling in this year’s HSC. Minister for Education, Sarah Mitchell, said the Class of 2020 had shown perseverance all year, with their results evident that hard work does pay off. “Despite all the hurdles, the Class of 2020 has performed on par with what we would expect in a normal year, which is an incredible achievement,” Mitchell said. “The Class of 2020 has displayed a tremendous sense of unity and resilience this year and all students should be proud of what they have

The 2020 First In Course cohort includes Jessica Sanchez of Kincumber High

achieved.” HSC marks were released across the state on December 18, with Central Coast students achieving some phenomenal results. Gosford High School was the Coast’s overall highest achieving school, ranking 72nd in the state, with Erina Height’s

Patrick Fang, Sophie Norris and Mikhail Savkin all making the All-Round Achievers List (students who achieved a result in the highest band possible in 10 or more units of courses in their current pattern of study), along with St Philip’s Christian College’s Louise Huang.

Central Coast Grammar School ranked 83rd and the only other local school to make the top 150 schools list. Students from southern schools also dominated this year’s HSC Merit Lists, with Gosford High School students Mikayla Bewley, Liam Chaney, Zoe Clarke, Liam Davies,

And that result was mirrored in the local rankings for Top Achievers (students who achieved one of the highest places in their HSC or VET course), with Kincumber High School’s Jessica Sanchez ranked first in the state for Community and Family Studies and Central Coast Grammar School’s Katelyn Williams placed fourth in Society and Culture. Gosford High School’s Sophia Stewart, Sophie Kelly, Jessica Livette-Vial and Patrick Fang rounded out the list, with Stewart ranking 10th in English Extension 2, Kelly sixth in Food Technology, Livette-Vial second in French Beginners and Fang seventh in Mathematics Extension 1.

NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, said students studying the HSC this year had endured one of the most challenging years in a generation, experiencing bushfires, drought and a pandemic. “In a normal year finishing first in an HSC course is an outstanding achievement, and to do so in a year like 2020, is a credit to the dedication and talent of the students being recognised today,” Berejiklian said. “Congratulations to the exceptional young people who achieved top marks this year, I am sure your teachers, family and friends are incredibly proud of you.” Dilon Luke

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SCIENCE & EDUCATION

PAGE 37 24 DECEMBER 2020

Erina students OnTrack to help Lola Erina High School OnTrack students have designed and built a platform to help their new learning support dog, Lola, jump out of the ute with ease. Lola who has only just been introduced to the school, will be part of three special education classes next year,predominately working in the special education facility with the children. Principal, Karen Nicol, said the task provided the OnTrack students with a real-life learning problem for them to solve. “They see a need, and they are guided to solve a problem,”

Nicol said. “They needed to provide a platform for Lola to get out of the car, that was the problem. “They had to ask; how do we do that, what do we need to buy, and what do we need to design and how much is it going to cost, who do we have to get approval from etc. “They were so excited to be making it for her.” The OnTrack program, led by Head of Technology, Glenn Bath, is an innovative School to Work program which provides real-life learning experiences for students looking for a career pathway into the industry. Nicol said Lola, who has

trained with Assistance Dogs of Australia, came as a “package deal” with Head Teacher for Special Education, Josh Nicol. “She is very clever and can open doors and cupboards, and that is a calming influence in a classroom for a special education child,” she said. “She is good for everyone, even adults. “Just being able to cuddle or pat her is lovely.” Nicol has been at Erina High School for 10 years and jokingly points out she does not even have her own reserved car space. Jacinta Counihan

Head of Technology and OnTrack, Glenn Bath, with program students and Lola

100 traineeships on offer for school leavers With the class of 2020 having just received their HSC results, a new twoyear infrastructure traineeship is being offered by the NSW Government to 100 students. Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal, Adam Crouch, said the traineeship would commence in February 2021. “Only 100 positions are on

Senior students at St Joseph’s Catholic College in East Gosford have excelled in this year’s HSC receiving 48 band sixes among 130 students.

offer, so I urge Central Coastbased school leavers to consider grabbing this golden opportunity while it’s still available,” Crouch said. “The traineeship will include immediate employment opportunities working as part of the project team responsible for delivering NSW’s largest ever school building program. “This traineeship is unique and will provide well-rounded

experience in the infrastructure sector, setting each person up for a very strong career. “Providing our young people with more opportunities, whether through TAFE, university or other pathways, is a priority for the NSW Government.” Minister for Education, Sarah Mitchell, said the traineeships would be a great way for students to gain insight into the

Industrial Technology- Timber, among others. “Highlights include ATARs of 97.45 for Sophie Smith, 96.85 for Elizabeth Murphy, 96.25 for Lara McCudden, 95.25 for Grace Talty, 94.8 for Lisa Briggs, 94.25 for Matilda Andrew, 93.45 for Brooke

Chilvers, 92.8 for Aubrey Tedd, 92.6 for Mollie Andersen, 91.7 for Maeve Godwin and 91.15 for Eliza Steven. “Our School Captain Grace Tulty received great news, with an ATAR of 95.25 affirming her place in UNSW’s prestigious Co-op Scholar Program for a

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industry partners. Training Services NSW has committed to cover the cost of each trainee’s Certificate III and IV, as well as other mandatory First Aid and White Card training. The NSW Government is investing $7B over the next four years, continuing its program to deliver more than 200 new and upgraded schools.

Top HSC results for St Joseph’s

School Principal, Tony McCudden, said despite the year’s hardships, students had risen above and managed to achieve incredible results. “Supporting the girls through this difficult year has been the ultimate priority for school staff, so to see that reflected in their results is excellent,” McCudden said. “Results were excellent across the board, with seven band sixes in English Advanced, fiive in Visual Arts, four in Maths Advanced, three in Legal Studies, three in PDHPE, three in Business Studies and two in

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infrastructure industry and the diverse careers available. “Recently graduated Year 12 students can continue their learning in 2021, allowing them to develop hands on experience across a range of construction based fields,” Mitchell said. The traineeship is a collaboration between NSW Government infrastructure agencies and approved

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Business Degree.” McCudden said the school has also done well in the subjects science, tech, engineering, and maths (STEM). “The resilience of these students is reflected in their amazing results- four band sixes in Maths Advanced, two in Extension Maths 1, three in Extension Maths 2, three in Biology and one in Physics,” he said. “With the cohort for Extension Science next year looking equally strong, and a large number of students choosing to undertake our STEM and Marine Studies electives in Years 9 and 10, the future for STEM at St Joseph’s is looking incredibly bright.” Lara McCudden was one of the students who stood out,

achieving an ATAR of 96.25, and band sixes in Mathematics Extension 1 and 2 and Physics. She has been accepted into the Aerospace Engineering Program at UNSW. Elizabeth Murphy received similarly impressive results in Mathematics Extension 1 and 2, as well as an 89 in Chemistry. “We know all too well how important it is to ensure that

This is the largest investment in public education infrastructure in the history of NSW. For more information, go to: https://education.nsw.gov.au/ public-schools/career-andstudy-pathways/ infrastructure-traineeships. Source: Media release, Dec 18 Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch

girls receive equal opportunity in education,” McCudden said. “This is always our motivation at St Joseph’s- to equip the next generation of women with the skills, empathy and passion for a successful future. “I am proud of how our students have conducted themselves throughout their schooling, and particularly this year. “They are not just high achievers in the classroom, they are also conscientious members of their community, who seek to live out the school motto to ‘Act Justly’. “The girls did an amazing job not only of supporting each other through this difficult year, but also going above and beyond to care for our Central Coast community.” Source Media release, Dec 18 St Joseph’s Catholic College

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NEWS

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Library named after Joy Lane The Evergreen Community Centre has officially named its library Joy Lane Library after a late Yallambee Village resident.

Joy’s son, Gary, and his wife, Jo, cutting the ribbon

After moving with her husband, Don Lane, to the village in West Gosford in 2012, Mrs Lane spent many loving hours creating the book oasis at the aged care facility. The original library space was moved in 2015 to make way for the café. Mrs Lane spent time organising the collection,

alphabetising the books, creating an orderly, peaceful space in the Community Centre. Evergreen Community Centre CEO, Helen Wilson, said libraries had played a vital role in helping many people through the pandemic lockdowns. “Joy was a powerhouse of energy - the COVID-19 pandemic did not slow her down,” Wilson said. “She continued to tend to the library, even when the community centre was shut.

“Books were returned and rested for a week, then sterilised before Joy returned them to the library shelves.” Joy moved to Yallambee Village from Coffs Harbour to be close to her family. Her son, Gary, and daughter in law, Jo Lane, were joined by Evergreen staff and residents for morning tea in Joy’s honour and the cutting of the ribbon. “Joy would have wondered what all the fuss is about with having the library named after her,” Wilson said.

“However, she would have been very proud to know that her contribution to the library, the village and its residents meant so much. “She enjoyed being able to contribute this way as it provided her with the ongoing social interaction which she enjoyed.” Mrs Lane’s legacy is safe in the capable hands of Evergreen residents Ruth Mosley and Lynette Phillips. Jacinta Counihan

Old mates catch up at The Grange Every Thursday at The Grange Hotel in Wyoming, Doug Holmes and his mates get together to talk about old times over a cup of coffee. The group of more than 15 began meeting after Holmes and a few other older locals started catching up at the end of the bar each week. The group has now turned into a space where people can share photos, discuss newspaper clippings, exchange stories, and bring up names that may have been forgotten by some. Licensee and owner of the Grange, Mick Hill, said the group had become a great way for people to spend a couple of

hours seeing some old friends and making new ones. “It is just a group of old Gosford people who recall the old times and how Gosford has changed,” Hill said. “They keep in contact with each other about others who have moved away, and other details like that. “It started with four guys just meeting and having coffee together, which has grown into around 15 to 20 guys having coffee together.” Holmes was part of original groups and now acts as the organiser. “I didn’t start it, it just happened,” he said. “It just grew through word of mouth.”

Holmes said the group is not just for males, but inclusive of anyone who would like to come and have a chat about old times. “The group is usually older blokes who are old identities of Gosford and the Central Coast,” he said. “They get together and tell yarns. “A lot of us have got old memories that a lot of the younger people would not even know. “Some of the boys are old footballers, and they talk their football days, and others talk about cricket.” Jacinta Counihan

Fifth round of funding opens for bushfire affected communities Communities across Australia hardest hit by the loss of regional tourism, including the Central Coast, are a step closer to sharing in $200M under a fifth round of the successful Building Better Regions Fund (BBRF). Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure,

Transport and Regional Development, Michael McCormack, said the launch of the program guidelines meant prospective applicants could now begin planning their project applications for assessment. “The Australian Government is supporting regional communities across the nation

FORT DENISON

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

0552 1.47 1217 0.69 1802 1.26

0400 0.53 1032 1.85 1714 0.34 2312 1.33 0436 1.56 1053 0.59 1651 1.40 2300 0.46 0412 0.47 1044 1.91 1725 0.28 2323 1.38

FRI

15 FRI

26 SAT

SAT

16 SAT

0001 0.56 0636 1.55 1311 0.61 1855 1.27 0444 0.54 1114 1.84 1757 0.34 2358 1.33 0536 1.67 1209 0.51 1802 1.36 2356 0.46 0457 0.51 1126 1.83 1805 0.34

with a particular focus in this round on regional tourism,” McCormack said. “Our regional communities across Australia have had a year like no other, battling bushfires, the continuing effects of the prolonged drought and COVID-19, while still doing so much to support our exports and the wider

economy. “We are backing those efforts with $100M of targeted support for tourism-related infrastructure, while maintaining $100M for broader community infrastructure and investment. “This funding will create jobs and drive economic growth in our rural and remote

TIDE CHART

0122 0.55 0200 0.54 0043 0.55 0756 1.69 0833 1.76 0716 1.62 SUN 1356 0.53 MON 1437 0.46 TUE 1515 0.41 2026 1.29 2107 1.30 1942 1.28 0046 1.34 0139 1.37 0530 0.55 0622 0.58 0719 0.61 1158 1.80 SUN 1841 0.35 MON 1245 1.74 TUE 1336 1.65 1928 0.37 2017 0.40 0051 0.46 0144 0.45 0633 1.77 0729 1.87 0821 1.93 1316 0.41 SUN 1908 1.36 MON 1415 0.31 TUE 1508 0.25 2008 1.37 2101 1.38 0048 1.35 0132 1.34 0006 1.36 0627 0.62 0715 0.68 0542 0.56 SUN 1205 1.72 MON 1245 1.60 TUE 1324 1.48 1921 0.48 2000 0.54 1844 0.41

30 WED

WED

0239 0.53 0912 1.80 1554 0.37 2147 1.31 0236 1.41 0823 0.63 1433 1.56 2109 0.42 0235 0.45 0911 1.97 1556 0.22 2151 1.39 0219 1.34 0808 0.73 1409 1.36 2040 0.58

communities at a time it is needed most.” Since 2016, the Liberal and Nationals Government have funded nearly 1,000 projects through the BBRF, securing the future of so many regional communities. Round Five brings the Federal Government’s total commitment for the BBRF to

more than $1B over seven years. Applications open on January 12, 2021 and close on March 5 with successful applicants expected to be announced in mid-2021. Source: Media release, Dec 16 Deputy Prime Minister, Michael McCormack

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

31 THU

THU

14 THU

21 THU

Times and Heights(m) of high and low waters

0318 0.53 0951 1.84 1633 0.34 2229 1.32 0336 1.47 0935 0.63 1539 1.46 2204 0.44 0324 0.45 0959 1.96 1642 0.24 2238 1.39 0310 1.36 0912 0.77 1503 1.27 2128 0.62

APPROX. TIME LAG AFTER FORT DENISON Ettalong 40 min, Rip Bridge 2hrs - Wisemans Ferry 2 hrs 30 min, Koolewong 2 hrs 10 min In view of the variations caused by local conditions and meteorological effects, these times are approximate and must be considered as a guide only. They are not to be relied on for critical depth calculations for safe navigation. Actual times of High and Low Water may occur before or after the times indicated

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

SPORT PAGE 39 24 DECEMBER 2020

New talent for Mariners ahead of A-League season opener From page 40 Meanwhile, the Mariners have also completed the signing of talented youngster Jaden Casella on a scholarship deal for the 20/21 season. Casella spent time training with the Mariners in recent weeks and featured in preseason matches and has now put pen to paper on a deal. The 20-year-old attacking midfielder was born in Sydney and spent time with Sutherland Sharks as a youngster, and more recently had a spell in Spain with Torre Levante and Mislata FC. Casella made the decision to return to Australia in the midst of the pandemic and helped guide Rockdale to the NSW NPL1 Grand Final. “I’m extremely excited to sign on with Mariners for the 20/21 season,” he said. “I see it as a huge opportunity for my development stepping up to the next level. “I had a great run in Spain, and it had a huge impact on my development as a footballer.

Serbian attacking midfielder Stefan Jankovic in action

Mariners Head Coach Alen Stajcic said he believes Casella has plenty of talent and can be someone who can improve at

the Mariners. “Jaden has demonstrated his talent and ability while on trial here and we’re excited to

Jaden Casella has been signed on a scholarship deal Photo: Football NSW

welcome him to the squad,” Stajcic said. “He is another talented young player who can gain a lot of

“To build this club back up we need to get things right with our young players, and Jaden is one of those who can make an impact here and be part of our future.” On a less positive note, the Mariners will be without Ziggy Gordon for 2020/21, after the Scottish defender was granted a release by the club from his A-League playing contract. Gordon joined the Mariners in 2019 and appeared in every A-League game last season. Gordon thanked the Mariners and fans for his time in Gosford. “This club is special and brilliantly unique, and one that I will always be indebted to for the opportunity and unwavering support from the fans and community,” he said. The Central Coast Mariners will face F3 rivals, the Newcastle Jets in the season opener on New Year’s Eve at central Coast Stadium with the game set to kick off at 7pm.

experience by being here and in a season where rotation will be key, he has the opportunity to earn minutes as well.

Terry Collins

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20 Knot Speed Limit on Brisbane Water at Ettalong A 20 knot speed limit is now in place on the main channel of Brisbane Water in Ettalong. The Ettalong Channel is a popular waterway shared by PWCs, boats, paddle craft, swimmers and a ferry service. The 20 knot speed zone will ensure all waterway users travel at a safer speed in the area.

COAST COMMUNITY

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

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

For more information on safe boating visit rms.nsw.gov.au/maritime/safety-rules/otherboating/waterskiing.html Wear a lifejacket that is maintained as required and in good working condition. A lifejacket never ruined a day on the water!

BLZ_SB2021

CCN

PAGE 40 24 DECEMBER 2020 SPORT

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Fishers excited with latest FAD

A new Fish Aggregating Device at Terrigal is good news for Coast fishers

FISHING Central Coast fishers will soon be bream-ing with excitement, with a Fish Aggregating Device (FAD) recently deployed to ocean waters near Terrigal. Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said FADs are GPS-tracked floating

buoys that anchor to the ocean floor. “Fish are attracted to FADs because they provide structure to the open ocean environment, allowing anglers to land a bigger catch,” Crouch said. “There are now 35 FADs dotted along the NSW coastline between Tweed Heads and Eden, with the closest FADs

located at Terrigal, Broken Bay and Swansea. “The Terrigal FAD was first deployed in November 2017 but has been removed over winter for cleaning and maintenance. “It will now remain in position until June 2021.” Crouch said FADs were a NSW Government initiative

funded through the Recreational Fishing Trust. “Every year fishers pay their licence fee, which in turn is reinvested into many initiatives,” he said. “The FAD program is a fantastic example of this because it creates new fishing opportunities and eases pressure on existing hotspots.

“NSW is home to about a million annual fishers – many of whom live or work on the Central Coast, and the industry contributes about $3.4B in economic activity each year, so it is crucial we continue to invest in these initiatives.” Recreational fishers are encouraged to check the latest marine weather forecast before heading offshore to wet a line.

Fishers can also keep up-todate on FAD deployments, coordinates and responsible fishing tips on the FishSmart app or at: www.dpi.nsw.gov. au/fishing/recreational/ resources/ fish-aggregating-devices. Source: Media release, Dec 18 Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch

New talent for Mariners ahead of A-League season opener

FOOTBALL

Costa Rican World Cup goal scorer Marcos Ureña has joined the Central Coast Mariners for the A-League 20/21 season.

The Mariners will welcome Costa Rica striker Marcos Ureña for A-League 2020/21

The 30-year-old most recently appeared for South Korea’s Gwangju FC, and will bring with him a swathe of experience, including UEFA Europa League and UEFA Champions League appearances. Ureña went to the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil with the Costa Rican national team and scored in their 3-1 win over Uruguay in the group stages that year.

He has scored 15 times in 67 appearances for Los Ticos and has played predominantly as a striker although can also be used as an attacking midfielder. The announcement follows the recent signing by the Mariners of Serbian attacking midfielder Stefan Jankovic from OFK Beograd. Jankovic, 23, will be another focal point for the Mariners attack this season. Speaking ahead of his travels to Australia, Jankovic said he is looking forward to a new challenge and that he has heard plenty about the Mariners. “I see it as a great opportunity

and a very exciting challenge, and I am very eager to join my teammates and start training hard.” Mariners Head of Football, Ken Schembri, said the addition of Jankovic was an exciting one, and that he was a product of the Mariners overseas scouting processes. “We are delighted to welcome Stefan to the Mariners, and we are looking forward to seeing what he can do on the pitch with the rest of the team in early January,” Schembri said. “Stefan was identified by the club’s official European scout, the same network that brought us Milan Duric.” See page 39 for more!