Coast Community News 303 by Central Coast Newspapers

30 JULY 2021

ISSUE 303

News

As the region gets set to enter its sixth week of lockdown, calls for a mass COVID-19 vaccination centre on the Central Coast are heating up. See page 5

Out&About

Dog days

After years of searching for “the one”, Hugo the Galapagos tortoise has finally seen his new girlfriend Estrella – albeit virtually.

As the region’s students continued with on line learning last week due to COVID-19 lockdown restrictions, Central Coast Grammar School decided to lighten the mood a little by inviting students to submit pictures of learning from home with their pets for a special Facebook campaign.

See page 17

Business

See page 35

Protest ends hopes of early release from COVID lockdown The Central Coast is unlikely to receive an early reprieve from the extended Greater Sydney lockdown, now set to continue until August 28. Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch, has laid much of the blame for the region’s extended lockdown at the feet of around 150 Coast residents who attended anti-lockdown protests in Sydney on July 24. “I am disappointed to report that the Central Coast’s lockdown cannot be ended,” Crouch said. “This is due to the unbelievable selfishness of approximately 150 local residents (who) attended the ‘anti lockdown’ protest in Sydney on July 24.

“Each one of these people could be the cause of a seeding event in our region which would have disastrous consequences. “It will also take approximately 14 days to see what impact the protest has on local case numbers.” A number of cars drove from Shelly Beach to Gosford waterfront on the same day in a ‘Freedom Drive’ advertised on the Central Coast Conscious Community Facebook page but were prevented from parking at Gosford when police blocked carpark entries. The activity prompted a reminder from NSW Police that Brisbane Water Police District officers are conducting daily operations to ensure people across the region are adhering

to the current restrictions. “The NSW Police Force recognises and supports the rights of individuals and groups to exercise their rights of free speech and peaceful assembly, however, protest activity is in breach of the current COVID-19 Public Health Orders,” a statement from Police said. “The priority for NSW Police is always the safety of the wider community.” Crouch said five active Coast COVID cases also made the health risk too high for an early lockdown release. Confirmation came from Central Coast Local Health District on the weekend that the five cases, from one household in the north of the region, with the first of them

linked to a Sydney construction site, have been moved to Special Health Accommodation in Sydney to isolate, with health staff undertaking daily wellness checks. The announcement of the fifth case, who had originally tested negative, led to the release of a lengthy list of possible exposure sites at San Remo, Tuggerah, Lake Haven, Charmhaven and Northlakes, which is available for viewing on the NSW Health website. “To end the lockdown now would only speed up transmission of the Delta strain,” Crouch said. “It will take a few days to see if any community transmission occurred at one of the 18 exposure sites on the Central Coast.

“Hundreds of people were unknowingly exposed to COVID-19 and are now being tested.” Community concern spiked this week, with lengthy lines at COVID testing sites all over the region. Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced the lockdown extension would allow residents more time to be vaccinated. “Though the Pfizer supply is insufficient there is plenty of AstraZeneca and updated federal health advice recommends anyone aged 18 and over in Greater Sydney should access the jab,” Berejiklian said. Continued page 6

As the Tranche 3 revised land sale list went to the July 27 Central Coast Council meeting for ratification, work on selling Tranche 1 and Tranche 2 land continues. See page 29

Education

Central Coast Community College, which provides training for disadvantaged students from all over the region, has received a $33,000 boost through the latest round of a NSW Government fund. See page 37

Puzzles page 22

Office: Level 1, 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 30 JULY 2021 CCN

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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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23 JULY 2021 21 JULY 2021

ISSUE 248

REAL INDEPENDENT LOCAL WEEKLY NEWS

Tools down!

News

The Tuggerah Lakes Expert Panel will host three online forums to discuss their findings and recommendations to improve the estuary health and water quality at Tuggerah Lakes. See page 8

22 JULY 2021

ISSUE 019

REAL INDEPENDENT LOCAL WEEKLY NEWS

News

Loving lockdown?

New funding announced for the University of Sydney’s Koala translocation study will boost the Pearl Beach Arboretum’s Koala Project.

As the Central Coast languishes in the fourth week of Covid lockdown with no end in sight, another crushing blow came on Saturday, July 17, when Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, announced yet another round of new restrictions in response to the stubbornly high number of COVID-19 cases in metropolitan Sydney.

CCN

The Coast is included in the tighter and far-reaching restrictions which include a retail shutdown and a twoweek ban on construction and building work, an industry which so far has been vital to our Covid economic recovery. From Monday, July 19, only urgent emergency repairs can be carried out or safety work to secure construction sites. CEO of Regional Development Australia Central Coast (RDACC), John Mouland, said the shutdown of the construction industry on the Central Coast would cause

hundreds of millions of dollars of financial impact to the region and directly impact more than 40,000 jobs. He said there were more than 5,000 construction related businesses in our region, and the RDACC was deeply concerned with not only the short-term impact of the Covid shutdown but the longer-term ramifications. Local builder, Daniel Gutierrez, said it was scary times and he couldn’t be shutdown for longer than two weeks before things would start to go sour. “A couple of my clients have been left with half-finished bathrooms and even if I could go in and finish them, I can’t get materials because those places are closed, or the ones that are still open are running short on supplies. “It’s a domino effect,” he said. “I just don’t know what’s going to happen and what’s even more worrying is that I had a few jobs lined up, almost

at the point of taking a deposit, but whether or not they’ll go ahead now, I don’t know. “That’s when I’m going to start feeling it, and I reckon people will hold back on getting work done because of the uncertainty of how long the lockdown goes on. “This is uncharted grounds, I couldn’t even give my apprentice a definite answer, I just don’t know what’s going to happen,” Gutierrez said. Construction work on NSW Government projects has also ceased, which will set back the August opening of the $200M redevelopment of Wyong Hospital, as well as the Porters Creek Public School in Warnervale, the $178M Pacific Highway upgrade at Lisarow and the $22.5M Wilfred Barrett Dr upgrade. “This is an incredibly tough decision but a necessary one,” said Parliamentary Secretary for Central Coast, Adam Crouch. “The lockdown has succeeded in preventing an

exponential increase in case numbers and has also succeeded in preventing COVID-19 from spreading into the Central Coast region. “However, it has not succeeded in reducing the daily case numbers, which is why the lockdown had to go one step further,” Crouch said. Harder restrictions on shopping have come into force, meaning that only retailers who provide essential products and services can be open during lockdown. Retailers who must close can still operate online, offer “click and collect”, takeaway and home delivery. The ones that can remain open are supermarkets and grocery stores (including butchers, bakers, fruit and vegetables, liquor stores and fishmongers), stores that predominantly sell health, medical, maternity and infant supplies, and chemists. Other stores that can remain open include petrol stations, car hire, banks and financial

institutions, hardware, nurseries and building supplies, agricultural and rural supplies, pet supplies, post offices, newsagents and office supplies. John Mouland said the RDACC supported the NSW Government’s decisions related to restricting the spread of the Covid Delta strain and encouraged everyone to buy local to support the many businesses doing it tough. “Some will not survive the Covid-related challenges that they have encountered over the past two years,” he said. “We need to ensure that our key regional industry sectors such as construction, retail, hospitality and tourism reopen as quickly as possible once the immediate threat subsides, to restrict the long term impact that these preventative closures will have for these vital businesses and our regional economy,” Mouland said. Sue Murray

The Australian Reptile Park has introduced a Pay Discover Forward scheme to benefit Central Coast children in need and their families.

See page 17

A Sydney-based news crew from A Current Affair got more than they bargained for this week when they confronted local gym owner, Rhyss Keane.

see page 29

St Brendan’s Catholic Primary School in Lake Munmorah has a new, furry member of staff joining the team to support students. See page 29

Puzzles page 19

Office: Level 1, 86-88 Mann St, Gosford - Phone: 4325 7369 - editorial@centralcoastnews.net - www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

For Peninsula residents, the increase could be as much as 40 per cent or more. Council has also flagged plans to try to make the rate increase permanent. When accepting the council’s need for a special rate variation (SRV) the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) only allowed the increase for three years. Council says its income will

be reduced by $22.8M in 202425 unless it gets a further rate rise. The meeting to adopt the rate rise - and the harmonising of the rates between the former Wyong and Gosford areas was held on Tuesday, June 29. It was an important meeting, as the Administrator Rik Hart said. The council also adopted its operational plan and budget at the same meeting. In the operational plan, the council explained it will need to apply to IPART for a further rate rise. Hart announced at the meeting that he hoped to put the case to IPART as soon as possible.

“It should be noted that whilst the approved SRV (special rate variation) provides Council short term stability for three years, it does not provide for long term financial sustainability beyond 2024-2025 and a further SRV will be required,” the council said. Adopting the plan enables the council to levy rates and charges prior to July 31. “If rates and charges are levied and notices issued by July 31 then the first quarterly instalments will be due August 31, 2021,” council said. The amount by which a rate payer’s rates will change will depend on two factors, the land value (as determined by

the NSW Valuer General) and the fact Peninsula properties are located in the former Gosford City Council area. “On average, property owners in the former Wyong will see a decrease in ordinary rates while property owners in the former Gosford will see an increase in ordinary rates,” Council said. Fees and charges also went up with the adoption of the operational plan. Local sporting bodies tried without success to stop a five per cent increase in fees. The Administrator informed Central Coast Sports Council representatives that its fees were lower than those of many other Councils and there

would be no changes to the way fees were administered. “Whilst there is a proposed five per cent increase, the proposed fees for 2021-22 have been benchmarked against other surrounding LGAs and are considered reasonable and fair,” the report said. Council also declined to adopt its Greener Places Strategy as requested during the public exhibition period of the plan. Council said the strategy had been due for adoption but its budget and resources had been allocated to higher priority projects.

Daniel Gutierrez of Empire Bay is just one of thousands of Central Coast workers who will struggle with the recently announced pause on construction works throughout Greater Sydney, including the Coast. See page 24

Health

Three pharmacies on the Peninsula have indicated that they will be taking part in dispensing COVID-19 vaccines in the coming months. See page 25

Continued page 8

Puzzles page 18

Office: Level 1, 86-88 Mann St, Gosford - Phone: 4325 7369 - editorial@centralcoastnews.net - www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

Restrictions tighten As the Central Coast prepares to enter its fourth week of lockdown, tighter restrictions imposed from July 19 have added to fears the lockdown could be extended beyond July 30. But the push for an early release from restrictions for the Coast is gathering momentum. Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch, said Premier Gladys Berejiklian had flagged that an easing of restrictions for the Coast, as well as the Wollongong area, is being considered. “At Wednesday’s press conference, the Premier said: ‘But we are also looking at opportunities to perhaps address those regions [Central

Non-essential retail is closed until July 30

Coast and Wollongong] in a particular way given we can keep the virus out’,” Crouch said. “Last week I committed to fiercely advocate for the Central

Coast region’s lockdown to end, but only if it is safe to do so. “Every decision made by the NSW Government should follow the health advice to the

letter. “I’ve been speaking to the Premier daily about our region and how the majority of people have done a great job by following the stay-at-home

orders. “Right now the ball is in our court to keep on following the rules and to get tested if you have any symptoms at all. “All it could take is a single case to scuttle our hopes of getting out of lockdown, so there’s never been a more important time to remain vigilant.” Shadow Minister for the Central Coast, David Harris, said he had been working with Crouch to see the Coast released from severe restrictions “as soon as is feasible”. “They tell us they have it under rolling review, but we will continue to push,” Harris said. Continued page 4

Education

Community action halves Council’s asset sales list

See page 8

Out&About

The Coastal Twist’s Arts and Culture Festival is hoping to make a sparkling return this Spring after being cancelled last year due to COVID-19 restriction. See page 17

Business

See page 5

See page 31

Central Coast HSC students and their families will have 24-hour access to support from Australia’s leading mental health service for young people in the lead up to exams. See page 38

Puzzles page 22

Office: Level 1, 86-88 Mann St, Gosford - Phone: 4325 7369 - Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 - E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net - Website: www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

About 150 Central Coast people, some from Long Jetty, joined thousands of others in Sydney for a “freedom” rally protesting Covid restrictions - but it has had exactly the opposite effect – the lockdown stays and there’s no end in sight. Parliamentary Secretary for Central Coast, Adam Crouch, announced on Tuesday, July 27 that the Central Coast lockdown could not be ended. “This is due to the unbelievable selfishness of about 150 local residents that attended the ‘anti-lockdown’ protest in Sydney on Saturday (July 24),” he said. “This is also due to the five new local cases announced last weekend. “Unfortunately, the health risk is just too high. “To end the lockdown now would only speed up transmission of the Delta strain.”

Crouch said it would take a few days to see if any community transmission occurred at one of the 18 exposure sites on the Central Coast. “Hundreds of people were unknowingly exposed to COVID-19 and are now being tested,” he said. NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, said she was utterly disgusted by the illegal protestors whose selfish actions had compromised the

safety of everyone. It will take about 14 days to see what impact the ‘antilockdown’ protest has on local case numbers. “I spoke to the Premier yesterday (Monday) and she will end the Central Coast’s lockdown as soon as it is safe to do so,” Crouch said. “In the next day or two the Premier will release a ‘road map’ which shows what restrictions can be eased once

the health risk subsides. “Thank you to everyone that has been following the stay-athome rules so well. “It is regrettable that a minority of people have wrecked our chances of ending the lockdown. “If you have any information about Saturday’s protest, please anonymously provide it to CrimeStoppers, even a photo or screenshot will help our Police detectives track down

the protestors,” Crouch said. Thousands of unmasked people took to the streets on Saturday, July 24, with no social distancing, shouting and carrying signs calling for “freedom” and “truth” – described by health authorities as a potential super-spreader event. Among them was Kiran and Kirt Mallie, the owners of a café, Modern Organic, at Long Jetty. Community condemnation and backlash to boycott their café business was swift, after a video of them at the rally was posted by Kiran on her Facebook page, and widely circulated. “Now we know who to blame if it (Covid) comes to the Coast, you should be ashamed of yourselves” said one message in response to the video, and another,“ So many of us disagree with the lockdown but we all follow the rules because we want our freedom back. Continued page 6

See page 5

Childcare services in Toukley and Wyong will get a $568,000 boost to fund projects to improve services and increase the number of place available. See page 29

Sport

The hosting of the New Zealand Warriors at Central Coast Stadium is over – at least for now, yet the Kiwi side has been forced to say farewell to Roger TuivasaSheck before returning to Auckland for their Round 22 match against the Bulldogs. See page 31

Puzzles page 19

Office: Level 1, 86-88 Mann St, Gosford - Phone: 4325 7369 - editorial@centralcoastnews.net - www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

Stay at home orders that have been in place on the Central Coast since early July will remain until Saturday, August 28 at 12:01am to enable current infection rates to lessen and increase the uptake of vaccines across the state. Along with Wednesday’s announcement of a four-week extension to the Greater Sydney lockdown, a whole host of restrictions were adjusted as the state raced to increase its vaccination rates. Premier Gladys Berejiklian said raising vaccination rates and following the health orders were the only ways to guarantee the easing of restrictions. “Though the Pfizer supply is insufficient there is plenty of AstraZeneca and updated federal health advice recommends anyone aged 18 and over in Greater Sydney should access the jab,” Berejiklian said.

“If you are unvaccinated, please organise a jab as soon as you possibly can, especially if you live in an LGA of concern.” Changes to other restrictions were also mentioned. Central Coast residents must limit their shopping to within their Local Government Area, or if outside their LGA, within 10 kilometres from home, unless the item is not available locally. From 12:01am on Saturday, July 31, construction in nonoccupied settings (with no residents on-site) will re-open as planned, subject to a one person per four square metre rule. Low risk construction sites must have COVID-safe plans in place. Tradespeople including cleaners who are able to work with zero contact with residents will also be allowed to resume work. NSW Health said that if contactless arrangements were not possible, work

couldn’t go ahead. Deputy Premier John Barilaro said there were new COVID protocols to keep workers and worksites safe. “Construction will resume on Saturday, with safety measures such as controls on movements between sites, reduced contact between workers within sites, improved tracing capability and a focus on encouraging workers to get vaccinated,” Barilaro said. “Works in occupied premises including residential homes can also resume from this Saturday where there is zero contact between workers and residents.” There will be a limit of up to two workers for indoor services and five workers for outdoor services, and works will only be possible where it is feasible for residents to vacate the area. “I can also announce that as part of our plan to reopen construction, worksites will be able to operate on Sundays and

public holidays for the remainder of the year, up until Christmas, to make up for any time lost.” A singles bubble will also be introduced from Saturday, allowing people who live alone to nominate one designated family member or friend to visit for companionship and mental wellbeing. Students and teachers will also have to continue homeschooling until at least the end of August but from Monday, August 16, Year 12 students will return to face-to-face learning, with the Government finalising plans for the resumption of in-class study under strict COVID protocols. The NSW Government is also working with industry and the Department of Education to introduce Rapid Antigen Testing to mitigate against outbreaks in workplaces and schools. Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch, said he was

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

After years of searching for “the one”, Hugo the Galapagos tortoise has finally seen his new girlfriend Estrella – albeit virtually.

See page 18

Business

See page 35

disappointed the Coast’s lockdown cannot be ended. “Unfortunately, the health risk is just too high,” Crouch said. “To end the lockdown now would only speed up transmission of the Delta strain. “It will take a few days to see if any community transmission occurred at one of the 18 exposure sites on the Central Coast. “Hundreds of people were unknowingly exposed to COVID-19 and are now being tested. “It will also take approximately 14 days to see what impact the ‘anti lockdown’ protest has on local case numbers.” Crouch also thanked locals who had been following the stay-at-home rules and said he would ask the Premier to end the Coast’s lockdown ‘as soon it is safe to do so’. Continued page 7

Three local tourism operators on the Peninsula will have the opportunity to become ECO Destination certified to help boost the local tourism sector when COVID restrictions ease. See page 25

Health

Peninsula residents who have had contact with anyone from five suburbs in the north of the region may need to get tested and isolate following Sunday’s announcement of a positive COVID-19 case. See page 35

Puzzles page 18

Office: Level 1, 86-88 Mann St, Gosford - Phone: 4325 7369 - editorial@centralcoastnews.net - www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

Office: Level 1.01/86-88 Mann Street Gosford - Phone: 4325 7369 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250

Out&About

Dog days

Four more weeks, brace yourself!

Lockdown will end when it is safe to do so

Education

As the region gets set to enter its sixth week of lockdown, calls for a mass COVID-19 vaccination centre on the Central Coast are heating up.

Ettalong Channel is set to benefit from a $6.2 million dredging program to be carried out by the NSW Government.

Photo: Olympics.com.au.

Central Coast Council is encouraging residents to take advantage of the latest round of Love Local online guides as the region remains in strict lockdown

News

Bushland, pocket parks, a car park and a seniors lifestyle village at Woy Woy, Blackwall, Ettalong and Umina have been spared from Central Coast Council’s asset sales program as a result of concerted community campaigning.

Matt Dawson

Rhyss Keane out the front of his Wyoming gym

Rates rubber stamped to rise from August Central Coast Council has officially rubber stamped its plans to increase rates by 15 per cent and harmonise rates across the two former Gosford and Wyong local government areas.

Something a little bit out of the ordinary occurred on July 22 at Bateau Bay Beach as a seal appeared on the sand. See page 13

See page 31

Health

See page 10

Umina Beach Public School mum, Lucy Lamont, with children (from left) Angus, twins Harry and April and Hugo, love learning in their pyjamas until 2pm

Education

From the Australian Olympic camp, the Kookaburra’s continue to lead the way after three group stage wins, all featuring Berkeley Vale’s Matt Dawson in defence.

See page 18

Business The past 16 months have been full of challenges for the Lamont family of Ettalong but, second time around, home schooling during lockdown is a source of pure joy.

Pacific Link Housing has finished the financial year on a high with an $8.6M cash boost. See page 21

Out & About

ISSUE 303

ISSUE 020

REAL INDEPENDENT LOCAL WEEKLY NEWS

A revised list of tranche three land sales by Central Coast Council was made public in the lead up to last night’s (July 27) Council meeting See page 5

See page 3

Out&About

30 JULY 2021

SA VE

29 JULY 2021

News

Senator Deborah O’Neill is demanding answers on what has happened to the $35M promised for commuter carparking at Gosford and Woy Woy.

The coveted annual Gosford Art Prize is now open for entries and the competition gets tougher each year...

Business

ISSUE 249

REAL INDEPENDENT LOCAL WEEKLY NEWS

ROCK SOLID!

See page 5

Tuggerah’s Emma Macpherson has been dancing across the globe, landing gigs both here and internationally. See page 13

Porters Creek Public School at Warnervale

28 JULY 2021

News

Out&About

Out & About

New restrictions will have a wide-ranging impact

ISSUE 302

Coasties tire of big-media beat ups

As the Tranche 3 revised land sale list went to the July 27 Central Coast Council meeting for ratification, work on selling Tranche 1 and Tranche 2 land continues. See page 29

Education

Puzzles page 22

Office: Level 1, 86-88 Mann St, Gosford - Phone: 4325 7369 - Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 - E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net - Website: www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

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2021 OFFICIAL

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NEWS

PAGE 3 30 JULY 2021

Survey suggests majority favour a de-merger More than 80 per cent of responses to the recent Coast Community Newspapers poll were in favour of reverting to separate Gosford and Wyong councils. Almost 300 responses were received, with 81.6 per cent in favour of de-merging and 18.4 per cent believing we should remain a united Central Coast Council. Comments on the responses were many and varied, with some readers referring to the 2016 merger of the two former councils as a “joke” and a “nightmare”. “It’s been a bungled, expensive and messy merger bought on by poor analysis and a coercion of councillors at the time by the State Government,” one response said. “The State Government could come in and fund the true costs of the merger. “This would be much better than breaking up the Council again into two equally dysfunctional councils in Gosford and Wyong.” Many felt that the geographical area of the region, combined

with an expanding population and complex environments, was too great to be managed by one council. Others were incensed that residents had not been consulted prior to the merge. “The residents were not invited to vote on the merger, and it has proven to be something of a financial burden and failure and the decision to do so was not in the interests of ratepayers,” one reader said. One respondent, a former council employee, was firmly on the side of de-amalgamation. “After working for Council for eight years before and after the amalgamation I definitely agree with a demerger,” the reader said. “I’ve seen first-hand how messed up the whole thing has been from the start (and still is). “I’ve seen unqualified staff be appointed to areas of management due to bias towards Wyong. “Last count of employees moved into management positions before I left was 53 Wyong to 23 Gosford; just the tip of the iceberg of the issues within CCC.”

There were several calls for a referendum on the issue. One reader said the forced amalgamation was “never justifiable”. “The Liberals imposed an ideological solution that has no merit,” the reader said. “Local government is there to serve the community. “It is not a business and its councillors are not board members. “We need to get back to fit for purpose local government and yes that means de amalgamation and enough councillors to actually represent the community.

“Central Coast Council is too big, impersonal and all about development at the expense of community.” Those opposed to a demerger were largely concerned with the cost of such a move. “Given the cost to merge and modernise systems and services, de-merging would be an enormous waste of time and money,” one response said. “The Council is reaching a point where the process of amalgamation is nearing completion and the focus has once again shifted to delivering services to the community. “Let’s just get in with building a strong, sustainable and

resilient Central Coast and delivering upon the Community Strategic Plan. “Please no more time wasting!” One reader said it was “way too far down the track” to consider de-amalgamation. “It would cost a small fortune to demerge and so much disruption for another five years,” the reader said. “The State Government should have been honest and said it would take 10 years and cost $10M a year to cover the costs involved.” One respondent said another reorganisation within a generation would be an

“irresponsible waste of money” and another said while amalgamation may have been “ill-conceived and poorly executed”, Council’s current financial crisis can’t simply be undone by de-amalgamating. “This would only compound the blow-out in costs,” the reader said. “Despite the current situation, and with the right leadership, a great opportunity now exists for Central Coast Council to leverage its size to deliver real scale economies and promote new investment in the region. But other readers felt costs of any de-amalgamation should be borne by the State Government. “The State Government is responsible for the merger and so the State Government should be responsible for the de-merger,” one reader said. “Also, the State Government should bail the Council out of its debt.” There were several calls for some northern suburbs, including Gwandalan, Summerland Point and Wyee, to join Lake Macquarie Council. Terry Collins

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“So many people I know are clutching at straws right now” Adding her voice to the push for the return of JobKeeper on behalf of the workers of the Central Coast is Erina Fair worker, Charmaine Simonet, who is also a store delegate for the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees Association (SDA). “I am a part-time worker and have been stood down as a result of the restrictions which

means I am unpaid, as are many of my colleagues,” Simonet said. “My work has offered for us to take annual leave or longservice leave but for some of us that is not an option – and even if it was it should not be. “While I have lodged a claim to retrieve my pay through Centrelink, waiting to see whether the application is successful is agonising.

“This whole process has been so much more stressful than it had to be and with lockdown already causing enough, that is the last thing we need.” Simonet said current payments do not guarantee any income. “With JobKeeper we were guaranteed an income, we did not have to worry but now we do have to worry,” she said.

“While I am one of the lucky ones, there are some who are dependent on their own, struggling to pay their rent and feed their kids. “So many people I know are clutching at straws right now and our government is just watching. “A modified JobKeeper payment to NSW is necessary to ensure we can work our way through this lockdown and out of it.

“Our members were walking in to work not knowing what was going to happen and now unfortunately our worst fears have come true. “The Government has had time to put in these measures, we have been through lockdowns before, and a scheme should already be in place.” Terry Collins Charmaine Simonet

Labor ramps up calls for return of JobKeeper The Federal Government has caved in to bipartisan pressure to increase financial support for workers impacted by the COVID-19 lockdown, but Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch, says the latest measures still aren’t enough and continues to advocate for the return of JobKeeper. Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced on July 28 that COVID-19 disaster payments will increase to $750 and $450 a week, depending on hours of work lost, and people already receiving welfare benefits such

as youth allowance or a carer’s benefit will also be able to claim an additional $200 a week if they have lost more than eight hours of work. Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch, said this was “a good outcome” for workers in the region. “I want to thank the Federal Government for listening to the NSW Government’s calls,” Crouch said. But Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch, said as the Coast gets set to enter its sixth week of lockdown,the newly announced measures are still not enough

and the reintroduction of JobKeeper is the answer. “This scheme puts the onus back on the employee (to apply for benefits) and the rollout of the money is very slow,” she said. “The money is still not hitting people’s accounts. “JobKeeper gave certainty in that it maintained an ongoing relationship between employer and employee. “There is so much uncertainty in the community about how long lockdown will continue – people need financial surety. “We need JobKeeper

reinstated to provide security in that employer/employee relationship. “It’s every man for himself, with businesses not knowing where their employees are at. “And $200 for those on welfare, who were previously excluded from any benefit, is not enough – that won’t pay the rent or put food on the table. “JobKeeper last year protected people’s jobs and livelihoods, helping put food on the table and secure a roof over heads. “With the toughest restrictions to date now enforced in Greater Sydney, which includes the

Central Coast, JobKeeper has never been needed so desperately. “Thousands of people in the community are unable to work as a result of the restrictions and feel like they have no one to turn to.” NSW Labor Leader, Chris Minns, said there was still uncertainty and anxiety for many families, workers and businesses across Greater Sydney. “Having further weeks of lockdown without JobKeeper will be too tough for tens of thousands of businesses and workers in NSW,” Minns said.

“The best way to provide certainty for NSW and to ensure no businesses or livelihoods are lost over the coming months, is to ensure we enter the next phase of lockdown with the right economic support in place from the start. “There is no excuse for entering into a longer lockdown in NSW without JobKeeper. “This is a deeper lockdown than in 2020 (and) if it extends much longer, this could end up being a longer lockdown than in 2020.”

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Labor leaders launch petition for local vaccination hub As the region gets set to enter its sixth week of lockdown, calls for a mass COVID-19 vaccination centre on the Central Coast are heating up. Federal Member for Dobell, Emma McBride, and Central Coast-based Senator Deborah O’Neill have launched a petition calling for urgent action from the Federal Government to establish a local centre. With several active COVID-19 cases in the region, many residents are facing up to 60 days for a vaccine appointment. McBride said this wouldn’t have happened if the Government hadn’t botched the vaccine rollout. “In a community where one in five people are aged over 65, there is an urgent need to get more vaccines in arms,” she said. “It’s nearly six months into the rollout, and Coasties are still struggling to get doses. “Sydney already has two vaccination hubs, the Hunter has one and Wollongong will

Some residents are waiting 60 days for a vaccination appointment

launch its first hub next month. “Why is the Coast being overlooked when our community is at serious risk?” O’Neill said a vaccination hub in the region would help clear the backlog of

appointments and make the Coast more resilient to the virus. “At the moment vaccination appointments at Gosford and Wyong Hospital have to be booked two months in advance and the Erina Respiratory Clinic has closed

all bookings – at this stage we will never get in front of the virus,” she said. “We need practical action right now in the form of a Central Coast Regional Mass Vaccination Centre. “This is very serious – the Coast is stuck in a lockdown

caused by the fast-spreading Delta variant. “Why hasn’t the government set-up a mass vaccination centre? “People’s lives are at risk. “The Prime Minister must give our community our fair share of vaccines and fast

access to those vaccines.” Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch, said Gosford Hospital could effectively operate as a mass vaccination hub if more vaccines were provided. “We have enough staff and we have enough space in the hospital for this vaccination rate to double overnight, but only if the Federal Government supplies enough vaccines,” Crouch said. “I have received dozens of emails and messages from local GPs and pharmacists who would be happy to administer vaccines, but unfortunately are not being provided with the supply they need from the Federal Government.” The petition can be accessed at https:// emmamcbride.com.au/ petitions/central-coastmass-vaccination-hub/ Source: Media release, Jul 26 Federal Member for Dobell, Emma McBride, and Senator Deborah O’Neill Media statement, Jul 29 Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch

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

From Council

Delivering for the Coast

The constant news cycle about COVID-19 and the necessary restrictions placed on visiting our friends and family, and going about our day-to-day activities can lead to distress, anxiety and frustration.

Our Operational Plan for 2021-22 outlines an operating budget of $659.8M and a capital works budget of $175.0M – this is our commitment to you to continue to deliver essential services while we also move towards financial stability.

Whatever your concern, it’s important to acknowledge it and seek help if it is affecting your wellbeing. We have information resources on the Council website that may be a good starting point, and there are also links to important support services for our community.

Your kindness also goes a long way. Reach out by phone and offer help safely to your elderly or vulnerable neighbours during this difficult time.

Just by asking you may be able to connect them to a service that they need, ensuring that you always follow all Public Health Order requirements. By staying vigilant, following the latest NSW Government Health Orders and working together we can keep our community safe.

Remember, essential services still continue for the community and you can also continue to access some services online anytime such as our eLibrary or Customer Service Centre. Rik Hart Administrator, Central Coast Council

Despite necessary budget cuts, we continue to deliver essential services and key projects for the Coast.

Capital works program highlights for 2021-22 Road projects account for 20.4 percent of the budget. • Region-wide road resealing and asphalt resurfacing program • Shared pathway construction at Magenta (The Entrance) and Tuggerawong foreshore, plus projects in Davistown, Erina, Gosford, Lake Munmorah, Magenta, Ourimbah and Terrigal Water supply projects account for 16.8 percent and sewerage network projects account for 20.5 percent of the budget. • Region-wide water and sewer mains asset renewal program • Mardi Water Treatment Plant major upgrade • Gosford CBD water and sewer infrastructure reinforcements • Warnervale Town Centre sewer infrastructure • Other projects in Avoca, Charmhaven, Daleys Point, Empire Bay, Ettalong, Forresters Beach, Gosford, Gwandalan, Killcare, Kincumber, Mardi, Mooney, Saratoga, Tacoma, Tacoma South, Umina and Warnervale

Other projects • Construction of Cell 4.4 at Buttonderry Waste Management Facility • Heating ventilation and air conditioning replacement at Peninsula Leisure Centre • Works at Gosford Olympic Pool, Grant McBride Baths at The Entrance, Halekulani, Long Jetty, Spencer, Tacoma and Toukley Aquatic Centre • Region-wide sportsfield, park and playspace works Search ‘Operational Plan’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Greener places

Council will immediately begin implementing the Greener Places framework in future planning documents, following its adoption by Council on 27 July. It focuses on mitigating Urban Heat Island Effects, increasing wildlife habitat and improving liveability and human health by maintaining and enhancing public and private urban greenspace.

Our population is expected to increase to 415,000 by 2036 – placing an urgent need to meet the demand of housing and resulting in increased housing density. Implementing a Greener Places framework now is important to mitigate the loss of canopy cover and green corridor in urban centres and neighbourhoods. The action plan will be implemented and reported over the next ten years. Search ‘Greener Places’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Council meeting

Find out when the next meeting is and watch it online centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/meetings

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

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Protest ends hopes of early release from COVID lockdown From page 1 Construction activity on the Coast will resume on July 31 under modified conditions and a singles bubble has been introduced, allowing people who live alone to nominate one designated family member or

friend to visit for companionship. Year 12 students are also set to return to face-to-face learning on Monday, August 16, with the Government finalising plans for the resumption of inclass study under strict COVID protocols.

Administrator Rik Hart opened the July 27 Central Coast Council meeting with a statement about the ongoing lockdown and said the Council was complying with health orders. “Stay at home requirements

have had a significant impact on how we work and how we function,” he said. “Council work will continue remotely. “Sites have been made safe and paused during this period.” He said Council had been

successful at redeploying staff from its currently closed recreation centres and libraries to other areas of the business so staff were still contributing and learning new skills. In addition to his advice to “mask up, check in and keep

your distance,” Hart said he hoped community members would also “keep an eye out for each other”. “Reach out virtually to check on friends and family,” he said. Terry Collins

Council of P&C plea to have all teachers vaccinated The Central Coast Council of P&C Associations has made a plea to Prime Minister Scott Morrison to vaccinate all school staff with now-available doses of Pfizer vaccine. “From the already vulnerable families who are under enormous pressure with home schooling, please enable vaccination of all school staff with the now-available doses

“Then also the other workers, who are able to work from home, could concentrate on that work and not be greatly stressed as they are at the moment, while trying to juggle home schooling and work,” she said. “Family pressures are rising and we are seeing families not complying and students not participating in home schooling. “This is to their own and the

of Pfizer vaccine,” CCC P&C spokesperson, Sharryn Brownlee, said. “This would allow the essential worker community to have their children back at school fulltime, then to be able to work by accepting the casual and part time work as it is offered that many of our coast families depend on and are unable to accept while home schooling,” Brownlee said.

communities detriment. We have an opportunity to stop these stresses and protect children. “This would provide significant extra protection and peace of mind for families and protect front line teachers who are in schools educating children of frontline workers and are at risk of being stricken with the highly transmissible Delta version of COVID. “As such, it would be very

popular with parents and reassure the frightened community that the stresses they are under are understood and action is being taken. “It can be done quickly, starting immediately, with the second jab coming within a few weeks of the first. “The vaccination of school and pre-school staff, done in a planned manner, would aid the national objective of pushing up the percentage of people

vaccinated. What is needed is a plan of action and a coordinated distribution that can be managed by GPs and Pharmacies. “A local Central Coast Vaccination hub is desperately needed, Sydney and Belmont are not accessible options.” Source: Media release, July 28 Sharryn Brownlee, CCC P&C

Community Environment Network NATIONAL TREE DAY August 1 is National Tree Day and, while we all hope to be out of lockdown as soon as possible, why not celebrate this important occasion in your own home by planting a tree or trees. National Tree Day started in 1996 and has grown into Australia's largest community tree-planting and nature care event. CEN thinks every day should be National Tree Day but on Sunday, August 1, we can all pause and think about the importance of trees in our lives. They provide shade to cool us. They provide habitat for everything from our Powerful Owls down to microorganisms and everything in between. Of course, COVID-19 means there are restrictions on community tree planting

events this year but that doesn’t mean you can’t have your own event on Sunday. CEN Wildplant Nursery Manager Bes Carr has the following tips for planting

WILDPLANT NURSERY GOES ONLINE

CEN is proud to launch the digital version of our wildplant nursery. We are looking forward to the return of our regular, first Saturday of the Month wildplant sales at CEN’s HQ off Brush Road, Ourimbah. Unfortunately we’ve had to postpone the August event due to uncertainty about the lifting of COVID restrictions. If we do get the all-clear to hold a sale during August, we will let you know and we look forward to seeing you on Saturday, September 4, just

in time for Father’s Day. Meanwhile, if over a month’s worth of stay-at-home orders have turned you into a green thumb, you no longer need to wait until the First Saturday Wildplant sale to satisfy your urge to shop. Just visit the cen.org.au/nursery, place your order and, presto, Happy Gardening! We are still building up the online nursery but our latest catalogue and order form along with some packages are available for you to purchase now.

trees. “Select a suitable area for a tree to be planted, this includes looking above, to make sure it won’t obstruct any power lines, rooftops, solar panels, in the future. “Look down, will the roots of the tree obstruct or potentially break through any pipes or utility cables. “Select a species of tree that is suitable to the conditions, consider amount of sunlight, soil type, size of the tree you would like. “Dig the hole the same depth as the pot your plant is in but make to hole approximately twice to three times as wide as the pot. “Remove the plant from the pot disturbing the roots as little as possible. “Place the plant in the centre of the hole and backfill with the same dirt that

you removed. “When the plant is in the hole the root ball should be touching the bottom of the hole. “Continue to backfill and press soil down firmly until the root ball is fully covered and level with the dirt from the pot. “Water in well after planting. “Watering well and less often will encourage roots to grow deeper, increasing its resilience. “Mulching around new plants reduces competition from weeds and helps keep the soil moist and cool.” Australian natives are adapted to our conditions so there is little to no need to fertilise, in fact fertilisers that are high in phosphate can be harmful to your plant and are not recommended.

NEW DATE FOR CEN FORUM The CEN annual forum is a time for the whole community to come together and share information about the Coast’s most important environmental issues, problems and victories. This year we’ve decided to be optimistic and set the date of Sunday, October 10, for the 2021 CEN Forum. The forum is always open to individual CEN members, member groups and to

the whole community. If you are interested in the local environment and want to get involved, this is a great opportunity to make a start, meet like-minded people, share knowledge and make contacts. The CEN executive, staff, volunteers and supporters look forward to seeing you there. So SAVE THE DATE – CEN FORUM – SUNDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2021

CALENDAR OF EVENTS UPDATE The following events will go ahead subject to COVID restrictions. If you have already registered or you’re interested in doing so, we will keep you posted about any date or time changes as we get closer to scheduled dates. Saturday, August 7 - Save Our Swifty Day, Bateau Bay Friday, August 13 - COSS Connections Aboriginal cultural burning walk and talk Saturday, September 4 - Wildplant Nursery Sale Thursday, September 23 - COSS Connections Nocturnal Safari Narara For updates visit https://cen.org.au/events/cen-calendar

From the Chair I am honoured to take on the role of Chairperson of the Community Environment Network for the next 12 months. There are multiple challenges to our environment both locally and globally. You only have to look at the Central Coast Council’s Operational Budget for 2021-22 to illustrate the threat to our environment and the lack of consideration for our environment. With the Council’s current financial crisis, one has to wonder why the staff recommended to the Administrator that $8.1 million or 4.6% of the capital works budget is allocated to new ‘Footpaths’. One has to question why ‘Footpaths’ are so prominent as new projects across Council when services are being cut. When you take a deeper look into the capital works budget the allocation to new footpaths becomes even more questionable when you examine the new green budget projects. In the capital works budget $7.8 million or 4.4% is allocated to green projects. Initially this looks impressive until you realise that $6.9 million is the construction of a waste cell at Buttonderry Waste Management Facility with only $50,000 or 0.02% of the capital works budget allocated to a saltmarsh swale. Within the green budget no new projects are allocated to address climate change or undertake responsible land management within the Coastal Open Space System (COSS). Although there are multiple challenges facing our environment I admire and respect the dedication of CEN staff and the many volunteers who all work towards protecting our local environment.

The Community Environment Network (CEN) is an alliance of individuals and groups that work for ecologically sustainable development.

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www.cen.org.au Ph: 4349 4756

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NEWS

Referendum on hold Central Coast voters will not be going to the polls on September 4 for a referendum on the number of councillors the region would like to see elected in future. At the Council meeting on July 27, Administrator Rik Hart said in line with the decision made by Local Government Minister, Shelley Hancock, to delay local government elections until December 4, across the whole state, Council would not be going ahead with

Council Administrator Rik Hart

its September 4 referendum. Former Interim Administrator, Dick Persson, had previously resolved to have a referendum to determine public support for reducing the number of elected Central Coast councillors from 15 to nine and the number of wards from five to three. Even though Minister Hancock had already suspended the next Central Coast Council election until late 2022, after the public inquiry, the compulsory referendum was still scheduled to go ahead on September 4.

Hart said an alternative date had not yet been chosen for the referendum and would be determined at a future time. A public hearing to be held as part of the Inquiry into Council may be held at the end of September. Hart said Commissioner McCulloch had been contacting Council staff and members of the public regarding the meeting. He said the possible September meeting was likely to be held in the Wyong Chamber and may be live

streamed. McCulloch will release a list of the names of people and groups who have made submissions but will not be releasing the actual submissions into the public domain. According to Hart that decision is because of the defamatory and inappropriate nature of the content of some submissions. Merilyn Vale and Jackie Pearson

DA lodged for Wamberal Beach restoration work Central Coast Council has received a development application for proposed work to restore land for two beach front homes at Wamberal. The homes are 63 and 65 Ocean View Dr. Both sites lost their beach access stairs in the storms last year. The application says the work of interim rock work and sand replenishment, nourishment

and restoration is in response to the significant erosion. The erosion resulted in exposed existing rock protection and a steep, eroded sand embankment in very close proximity to private residences. It says the existing profile poses a risk to public safety due to unstable rock and embankment that may result in further slumping/undermining of houses. “The proposed development

is for rockworks, replenishment and nourishment works only to restore the landform and to a safe angle of repose,” the Statement of Environmental Effects states. “The proposal is to carry out rockworks and replenishment and restoration to the rear portion of the subject land and eastern boundary interface to the beach to make the site safe and secure, and also importantly to comply with the terms of the positive covenant

and restrictions on the land title. “That restriction on title requires the landowner to ensure the land adjoining the beachfront is “at all times properly maintained, replenished and restored”. The Council is the prescribed authority and party to that restriction. The application says the works are designed to improve public safety on the adjoining property and beachfront by re-

stacking unstable existing rock and placing additional imported armour. “The works are designed to improve protection against erosion in the short-term, while anticipating permanent works in the near future - yet to be determined by public authorities,” it says. The proposed works will include: the placement of geotextile material on the rear face of the works to prevent sand filtering through the rock

armour; the placement of sandstone rock armour to a significant wave height of 1.2m and replenishment of sand over the top of rock work and further up the impacted bank. The estimated cost of work is $180,000. The proposal is open for public comment until August 8. Source: Central Coast Council DA Tracker DA 60787/2021

E C I T O N PUBLIC Unhappy with the performance of our Central Coast Council? We are seeking your support for the de-amalgamation. Two proposals to the NSW Local Government minister have been prepared in easy petition format and are ready to download and sign. Simply download the proposal forms and follow the instructions to participate. Once sufficient signatures ffrom enrolled residents have been collected, the proposal will be submitted to the local government minister, who is then obliged to create a Boundaries Commission Inquiry.

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PAGE 9 30 JULY 2021

BUDGET 2021

SECURING AUSTRALIA’S RECOVERY Lucy Wicks and the Morrison Government are delivering vital infrastructure for the Central Coast. Upgrading the intersections along Manns Road including at Narara Creek Road and Stockyard Place. The project will support 150 direct and indirect jobs. Construction is expected to start in mid-2022 and completed by late 2023. For more information go to: www.liberal.org.au/budget

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Council says gender equity strategy not a priority right now Central Coast Council has declined a call from an advisory group for “in principle” support for a gender equity strategy, citing staffing and financial constraints. It said it was not an organisational priority and it could not support it at this stage. The Council’s Status of Women’s Advisory Group (SOWAG) had called on Council to give in principle support only. The advisory group volunteered to initiate and lead the creation and implementation of the strategy. Two speakers from the group addressed the council on July 27, Sharryn Brownlee and Sharon Walsh. Walsh said members of SOWAG were sensitive to the Council’s current issues pertaining to resourcing but the

committee was merely seeking in principle support from the council for a Gender Equity Strategy. “The members of SOWAG appreciate current resourcing restrictions and as such have stated their commitment to undertaking the necessary work involved in researching and developing any potential strategy for consideration by council,” she said. SOWAG had recently fought to successfully maintain the Status of Women Advisory Group as a stand-alone group when Council re-organised its advisory groups and suggested folding SOWAG and the Social Inclusion advisory committees into one working group. Walsh said Council’s finalisation of a Social Inclusion Charter was crucial and supported by the members of SOWAG. “However, given that

Sharon Walsh

Sharryn Brownlee

ultimately SOWAG was not subsumed under the umbrella of Social Inclusion, our members have the responsibility to advocate for the development of a Gender Equity Strategy for Central Coast Council separate to the Social Inclusion Charter,” she

said. “We feel it is important to highlight that the Status of Women Advisory Group has not been specifically consulted in regard to the Social Inclusion Charter with regards to the specific addressing of issues for women.

“I reiterate that our recommendation was for in principle support from Council for a Gender Equity Strategy and that SOWAG members have offered their time and efforts in terms of the research and development work necessary if Council decided to support the development of such a strategy. “A Gender Equity Strategy provides council organisational opportunities to achieve workplace and community gender equity, where people can access and enjoy the same rewards, resources, and opportunities regardless of gender. “Such a strategy would aim to support Council to become a leader and champion for gender equity in our community, while also identifying the skills and resources necessary to implement such a strategy.” Administrator Rik Hart said he

would struggle to disagree with what the two speakers had said. He asked the director of Connected Communities Julie Vaughan to speak who said a number of strategies showed Council’s commitment to gender equity. She also spoke about the reduction in staff in her department which would made it difficult to support further action plans that came along with a new strategy. In the end, Hart adopted the staff recommendation which said “the proposal to develop a Gender Equity Strategy is not supported at this point in time as it is not an organisational priority and there are limited resources available to develop and implement a specific strategy just related to gender equity”. Merilyn Vale

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Call Jenni on 0458 018 332 to walk through this home and explore the Sunnylake Shores community. 2 MACLEAY DR, HALEKULANI liveinsunnylakeshores.com.au *Price is based on owning your home and leasing the land and is correct at time of printing and subject to change without notice.

PAGE 12 30 JULY 2021

NEWS

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

Terrigal Bowling Club looks to give back to the community that saved it In April, Terrigal Bowling Club called upon its local community for support in its time of need. And now the club has decided to give back to the tightknit community by launching a promotion called “Local Legends” in an effort to help support fellow businesses. The promotion encourages anyone to nominate a local business that operates within 10km of Terrigal, to be in with a chance of winning a free 12-month sponsorship package. The person who nominates the successful business will earn 250 ($50) Bowlo Bucks to spend at the bar. Entries will be mentioned via the club’s social media platforms to encourage members and community to get behind local businesses.

Terrigal Bowling Club

In April, the club was one of the many sites earmarked to be reclassified and rezoned by the Central Coast Council in order to be sold off, to assist in reducing the Council’s selfinduced debt. But the community rallied and was able to get the club removed from the list,

successfully saving 70 years of Terrigal history. Like many hospitality venues across the Coast, Terrigal Bowling Club remains closed during lockdown but that doesn’t mean it isn’t still looking at ways to support members and the local community.

Club CEO, James Heddo, said the past few weeks had been difficult. “Just like last year, the hospitality industry and local businesses have been hit hard by the lockdown,” he said. “Just as we were starting to get back on our feet from the

difficulties of 2020, this outbreak hit and set us back. “Whilst we aren’t trading at the moment, we couldn’t just sit back and do nothing, especially when our community supported us when we needed it most. “The role of clubs in Australia

is to support their communities however they can and that is exactly what we intend to do through this promotion. “We would encourage everyone to do as much as they can to help each other out; after all the Australian concept of mateship is more important now than ever before.” To nominate a local business, visit www.clubterrigal.com.au/ locallegends to enter and describe in 25 words or fewer why your nominated business deserves the community’s support. There will be two winners chosen with four runners up. Entries close on Wednesday, August 25, with winners drawn the following day. Source: Media release, Jul 28 Terrigal Bowling Club

Central Coast Friends of Democracy

Demerger Petition launched

The Friends of Democracy is focused on returning democracy to our community and reclaiming our Council.

Initially this means considering the question of a demerger and how it would be achieved. On 14 June, Professor Joseph Drew outlined some of the issues around mergers and demergers - a copy of the presentation is now available on our website. Five years after Gosford and Wyong Councils were merged rates are increasing, staff have been axed, community assets are being sold and services cut. Our community has lost their voice without democratically elected representatives that have been replaced by an Administrator who works for the State government. On 31 October 2020, it was reported that “the state government’s controversial council merger policy is in crisis, with the 20 amalgamation councils losing $1.03 billion in three years and ratepayers facing hikes in rates and cuts in services” (SMH). That report listed Central Coast Council’s accumulated losses since merger as $112m, with Bayside, Inner West and Parramatta Councils with even larger losses over the same period. In May 2021, the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) determined rate increases for 10 Councils. Eight of these were merged Councils with increases ranging from 8% to 53.5%. It is clear that amalgamations have

increased costs for residents, removed the community’s voice and were not properly funded by the NSW government. In two merged Council areas, community groups have been working through the demerger process - Snowy Valleys Council and Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council areas. Recently the Minister has refused these demerger requests and instead announced an independent review into the Local Boundaries Commission. This is not the end of the matter for those communities. In addition, residents in at least 4 other merged Council areas are calling for their community to have their say through a referendum, poll or petition. It is time for our Central Coast community to have their say on the demerger question. It rests with our community to initiate a petition and it is a significant task requiring over 25,000 signatures. Process for Council Demergers The Local Government Act 1993 is the key legislation that guides local Councils. There appears to be two relevant parts of the LG Act (Chapter 9)- how areas are constituted and how boundaries are altered. In both cases, there are a number of ways that a proposal can be initiated. A proposal may be made by: • the Minister for Local Government • a Council affected by the proposal, or • by an appropriate number of electors

www.ccfriendsofdemocracy.com CCN

(10% of enrolled electors) A proposal then triggers a process where the Minister has a lot of discretion. The Minister can reject the proposal at any stage. If it proceeds, it is referred the Boundaries Commission for a report back to the Minister. (This is the same Boundaries Commission that is now under review). The Minister then decides whether to recommend to the Governor that a proposal be accepted (with or without changes) - or not.

Make Your Voice Count Sign the petition to demerge - in a COVID friendly way

1 Visit our website and download the petition 2 Sign the petition. Please note:

• You need to print and sign the petition • You must be an enrolled voter for the Central Coast • You must provide details exactly as they appear on the electoral roll - otherwise your petition is invalid

3M ail

your petition to the PO Box below OR scan and email your petition to admin@ ccfriendsofdemocracy.com

PO Box 106, Terrigal 2260 email: admin@ccfriendsofdemocracy.com

YOUR ADVERTISEMENT HERE

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

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

An open letter to the NSW Government The Hon Brad Hazzard MP Minister for Health GPO Box 5341 SYDNEY NSW 2001

21st July 2021

Dear Minister Central Coast Labor MPs met with members of the Central Coast GP Alliance Working Group to discuss the rollout of vaccinations on the Central Coast. The consensus was that the Central Coast needs a mass vaccination centre. Whilst local GPs are offering vaccinations, waiting lists are already long and the rollout of the Pfizer vaccine will further add to the delay. GPs are still coping with their normal duties of seeing patients as well as now doing vaccinations. If we are to ensure our coast’s population is vaccinated to a high level, like the Hunter and lllawarra, the Central Coast should have a mass vaccination hub. We ask you to strongly consider this request to address this issue with the view to protect the 345,000 plus residents of the Central Coast. Yours sincerely

David Harris MP Member for Wyong

David Mehan MP Member for The Entrance

Yasmin Catley MP Member for Swansea

LIesl Tesch MP Member for Gosford

Emma McBride MP Federal Member for Dobell

Authorised by David Mehan MP, David Harris MP, Liesl Tesch MP, Yasmin Catley MP & Emma McBride MP, funded using parliamentary entitlements.

PAGE 13 30 JULY 2021

PAGE 14 ON THE BEAT 30 JULY 2021

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

Fines issued for breaches of public health orders Brisbane Water police issued 12 $1,000 fines on July 24 at two separate gatherings held in breach of COVID-19 stay at home orders on the Central Coast. At Terrigal, eight people were each issued a $1,000 infringement while visiting a residence and at Wamberal, four people attending a birthday each received $1,000 fines. Brisbane Water Police District Commander, Superintendent Darryl Jobson said the vast

majority of people in the community are doing the right thing but this was being undone by some. “The acts of some in breaching the Public Health Order are downright selfish, irresponsible and beyond comprehension,” he said. “These selfish acts put the rest of the community at risk. “Police will continue to be highly visible and we will continue to respond to

Six fined over Sydney protest Officers from Brisbane Water Police District have issued six people with $1000 PINS for breaching the Public Health Order after attending the Sydney CBD protest on July 24. This includes a 28-year-old

Tascott woman, a 26-year-old Narara woman, a 51-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman from Ettalong Beach, and two men – aged 22 and 31 – from Summerland Point.

information to investigate breaches. “We all need to do the right thing and comply with the Public Health Order to keep the virus out of the community.” Anyone who has information regarding individuals or businesses in contravention of a COVID-19-related ministerial direction is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: https://nsw. crimestoppers.com.au. Source: Brisbane Water Police district Facebook page, Jul 26

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.

Source: Brisbane Water Police district Facebook page, Jul 29

Man arrested in relation to theft of Erina kitchen equipment A man has been charged after property which was allegedly stolen from Erina was located at Wadalba on July 23. About 9.30pm on Saturday, July 17, police will allege two men forced entry to a shipping container located at a pub on The Entrance Rd at the Bonnal Rd intersection in Erina and stole a large amount of commercial kitchen equipment – including an air compressor, an ice machine and several fridges. Officers from Brisbane Water Police District’s Proactive Crime Team were notified and commenced an investigation into the incident. Following extensive inquiries, officers executed a search warrant at a property in Quarterhorse Pde, Wadalba, about 9am on July 23. Police seized a number of items which they allege are

stolen property from the Erina business. A 41-year-old man was arrested at the home and taken to Wyong Police Station. He was charged with a range of offences and was bail refused to appear at Newcastle Bail Court on July 24.

Investigations remain ongoing. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw. crimestoppers.com.au Source: Brisbane Water Police District Facebook page, Jul 23

Caring for our community • • • •

204/1 Bryant Drive PO Box 3763 Tuggerah NSW 2259

COVID-19 Medicare NDIS Centrelink

02 4353 0127

• • • •

NBN Veterans’ Affairs Jobs & Training Congratulatory Messages

I Emma.McBride.MP@aph.gov.au I emmamcbride.com.au

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

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

PAGE 15 30 JULY 2021

An estimated 150 local residents attended the “anti lockdown”protest last Saturday. NO MASKS NO SOCIAL DISTANCING NO QR CODES NO RESPECT WE NEED TO RESPECT OUR REGION - BEHAVIOUR LIKE THIS PUTS THE SAFETY OF OUR ENTIRE COMMUNITY AT RISK. Their actions, in addition to the 5 new local cases, have trashed the chances of the Central Coast’s lockdown ending. DO YOU HAVE ANY INFORMATION ABOUT SOMEONE THAT ATTENDED THE “ANTI LOCKDOWN” PROTEST? Please anonymously provide it to Crime Stoppers at: nsw.crimestoppers.com.au Even a photo or a screenshot can help the Police. The penalties for protestors can include a fine of $11,000 and a jail sentence of 6 months.

Adam Crouch MP

Member for Terrigal

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

terrigal@parliament.nsw.gov.au adamcrouchmp

adamcrouchmp

PAGE 16 30 JULY 2021

FORUM

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

Time to set things rights on Woy Woy carpark The pathetic attempt by Lucy Wicks to divert attention from the reality of the Spacerorts episode should be treated with the contempt it deserves (“Tensions rise over Auditor-General’s carpark report”, CCN 302). Nobody is arguing over whether parking is needed at Woy Woy and Gosford, and to suggest otherwise is nothing more than “politicising the carparks” (to use her own words) to cover up the shortcomings in the process. These projects were promised before the last election, but it looks as though we’ll see another election before we see any project progress on the ground. Of course, this seems to be true across the spectrum of the whole exercise, so our disappointment is not unique, but it would be nice if she just came clean over the fiasco and tried to set things right. It now transpires that the “fully funded” Woy Woy carpark was only allocated $5M for a scoping study - not exactly what we were led to believe at the time. Even so, where is the study? It is absurd that a site has

HYLAND BYTES not even been chosen yet the first step in any study that isn’t just pie-in-the-sky. What has Transport for NSW been doing over this losttime period, since it obviously hasn’t been giving any attention to what is required? When Transport for NSW belatedly completes its work, shall we be allowed to see the substance of the investigation and the reasoning behind whatever choice is made, or will this be just another case of a fait accompli being jammed down our throats, without any opportunity to review the work or make submissions? It happens, by accident, that both the local projects are well justified and would have been justified, even if a proper procedure had been followed. Therefore, despite the miasma of corruption surrounding the exercise, we shouldn’t feel any guilt about being selected for an allocation. However, a Woy Woy carpark is going to cost about $20M, even if it is properly designed and not just a shemozzle, as

is being suggested in the press. When is this money going to be allocated? Furthermore, how was it decided already that Woy Woy needed 140 spaces, without any study being made of the question? It requires little local understanding to see that 140 spaces will be far short of what is needed now, let alone in a few years’ time, so wouldn’t it make sense to show a little forethought and prepare for what is going to be needed? It is too much to expect that Central Coast Council will raise any questions over the matter: they must be fully occupied with our “referendum” and other issues loftier than a mere carpark. I suggest that all Peninsula residents send an e-mail to Ms Wicks, expressing concern over the apparent shortcomings in the present handling of the affair and requiring that we all be given the opportunity to make an input, before any commitments are made. Email, Jul 26 Bruce Hyland, Woy Woy

COVID safe? You’re kidding I saw the photo of two policemen walking along the new walkway (at Terrigal, CCN302). When did they take that? At six in the morning? The day I went there just last

FORUM week, you couldn’t walk without trying to avoid someone. My wife and I had masks on; three policemen had them on

- but 99 per cent of people there did not. (And there was no) social distance. COVID safe? You’re kidding. Email, Jul 24 Brian Summers, Erina

Vaping bad, but nicotine and alcohol are just fine … mmmm Can anyone explain to me the logic of allowing regular cigarettes to be freely sold but banning the sale of nicotine e-cigarettes (“5300 e-cigarettes seized in Central Coast blitz”, CCC 302)? If we banned all nicotinecontaining cigarettes, I could see some sense in it, but making out that vaping is somehow worse than smoking is patently ridiculous. Of course, we know that banning these items will turn out to be counterproductive, as is evidenced by the outof-control “illegal” drug situation in this country, and the fact that e-cigarettes are

FORUM readily available, even though prohibited, shows how easily a ban is subverted. A crackdown on retail outlets will only mean that criminal gangs will become involved in the trade (at least to a greater extent than they are already involved) and funnel more money into their pockets. We don’t ban alcohol which is by far the most dangerous drug in the world, so our “war on drugs” is both hypocritical and ineffective. My suggestion is that we institute a nationwide campaign to encourage minors to smoke marijuana which is less health-

damaging than both nicotine and alcohol and can be easily made to seem fashionable, with a little celebrity endorsement. We can, then, move on to weaning drinkers off alcohol onto heroin which is medically-neutral and has many fewer damaging social impacts than alcohol consumption. The police resources that are now wastefully directed towards prosecuting unenforceable drug laws could, then, be channelled into more valuable efforts, such as investigating political corruption and controlling football hooliganism. Email, Jul 25 Bruce Hyland, Woy Woy

The continuous loop of the NBN help line NBN is a difficult company to contact. My current provider has suggested I contact NBN because my service fluctuates enormously – from 0.01 MBPS up to 110 MBPS on occasions. The tests my current provider has done as well as those done by me clearly demonstrate this fact. Unfortunately, when you go to (NBN) the website it refers to a phone number with all options referring you back to the website and it is a continuous loop. The only number listed on the

FORUM See Page 2 for address and contribution conditions. Opinions expressed are those of the writer and not necessarily of the newspaper whitepages.com.au site is a mobile number diverting to a message bank. My current provider and I want to know if my address in

Terrigal is going to be upgraded to FTTP as announced earlier this year and as advised on the NBN website. My previous communication provider dumped all my communications after 30 years when trying to get NBN to sort this ongoing issue. I will speak to (Senator) Deb O’Neil’s office about this again, but the lack of communication demonstrated by NBN is extremely concerning and lack all forms of transparency. Email, Jul 27 Neil Keele, Terrigal

GIFT THE W O F W I L DO N D E R S LIFE TO KIDS IN NEED

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

OUT&ABOUT PAGE 17 30 JULY 2021

Is Hugo punching above his weight? Hugo and Estrella meet virtually Photo: Australian Reptile Park

After years of searching for “the one”, Hugo the Galapagos tortoise has finally seen his new girlfriend Estrella – albeit virtually. In a story many singles can relate to during lockdown, the pair first locked eyes over Facetime, two years after matching on dating app Tinder

in 2019. One of the Australian Reptile Park’s most famous inhabitants, Hugo was expecting Estrella to arrive from her home in Germany in early 2020, but due to complications in travel and COVID-19, it was put off until she could safely reach our shores in June 2021. They will eventually meet in

person in mid-September when Estrella emerges from mandatory quarantine. Head of Reptiles, Daniel Rumsey, said the chemistry already developing between the two Galapagos tortoises. “We have always wanted to get Hugo a girlfriend to replace the ‘special’ rock he has in his enclosure, and this was a great

step towards their meeting,” Rumsey said of the virtual encounter. “He’s got a bit of an extra bounce in his step now and we’re all counting down the days until the lovers can meet. “Who knows, maybe within the next few years we may have some baby Galapagos tortoises.”

Hugo arrived at the Reptile Park as an infant in 1963. He has now reached middle age (at the age of 70) and is ready to settle down. At 181.6kg he is fully grown and one of the Park’s most popular animals. Estrella is just 21 and has travelled from Zoo Rostock in Germany.

Keepers are hoping for successful breeding between the two in coming years to help bolster numbers for the endangered species. The Australian Reptile Park is currently closed due to the Greater Sydney lockdown. Source: Media release, Jul 27 Australian Reptile Park

PAGE 18 30 JULY 2021

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

OUT&ABOUT PAGE 19 30 JULY 2021

Coastal Twist plans a sparkling festival return After being cancelled last year due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Coastal Twist Festival is hoping to make a sparkling return in September/October. The Festival has been breaking regional boundaries since its launch in 2019 connecting the region’s LGBTIQ creatives with new opportunities, audiences and streams on a grand national scale. This year’s theme is Be The Change - taken from Gandhi’s quote: “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” “If 2020 was the year of the pandemic, 2021 is the year of re-evaluating how everything we have always thought would run to plan has to shift and how we all have to do our bit to adapt in order to survive,” Festival Director, GlittaSupernova, said. “This year we are doubling

Photo: Lisa Haymes

our festival days and events running for six days with 11 activations. “For the 2021 Coastal Twist Art exhibition we are ecstatic to have guest curator and iconic photographer C.Moore Hardy,

whose photographs of Sydney’s LGBTIQ community spanning three decades are an institution.” The Coastal Twist 2021 Art exhibition will from September 29-October 7 at Jasmine

Greens, Umina Beach, with the call now out to all LGBTIQ 2D and 3D artists working in mediums from painting, photography and printmaking, to collage, ceramics, crawing and sculpture to submit their

work or idea for possible inclusion and sale by the deadline of August 30. “There’s excitement; everything comes to life and the noise levels go up as soon

as we start getting the word out that Coastal Twist is back for 2021 which is a great thing,” Supernova said. “We are trying to create amazing experiences for all ages, family types, abilities and this art exhibition will launch the Festival. “In particular, the Coastal Twist Art Exhibition is intentionally designed to showcase LGBTIQ Central Coast artists to local, statewide and national audiences through artwork that is expressing their interpretation of ‘change’ in a curated exhibition (which will) reflect (some of) the diversity of our LGBTIQA+ lives. The Festival will see multiple events from live music, to theatre, film and sport. Details at https://coastaltwist. org.au/2021callout Source: Media release, Jul 23 Coastal Twist

Central Coast Eisteddfod returns After a hiatus in 2021 due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Central Coast Eisteddfod will hopefully be up and running again this year from September 18-October 4. Organisers are encouraging talented people from the Central Coast and beyond to get their entries in for their particular section of talent. Entries are open until August 19 (under special circumstances late entries will be accepted till August 26.) Organisers are looking for popular or classical singers, instrumentalists and entrants in speech, drama and dance. The eisteddfod began in 1975 when three arts loving locals, Don and Lil Turner and Bill Wallace, approached the Gosford Lions Club, which gave its support to kick-start the

annual event. It is now in its 46th year and has added more sections, better venues and better dates following feedback from competitors, parents and

music teachers. The eisteddfod is recognised as one of the best showcases of young talent on the Central Coast.

The 2021 syllabus is now available on the eisteddfod’s website and all registrations will be online. A qualified adjudicator judges the best performances in each

Planning to separate? If you’ve separated or you’re planning to separate, here’s how you find out what you’re entitled to ... A FREE online information session will be presented by Stuart Robertson, a Family Lawyer at Turnbull Hill Lawyers, on Wednesday, 4 August from 6.00pm to 7:30pm. Stuart will explain to you “who gets what” property when you separate from your partner. He’ll give you tips to help you take control and discuss how your entitlement is worked out.

Stuart will also talk about: • how superannuation is now treated as “property” and how superannuation can be split • whether you get more property if the children are living with you • what happens if you owned a lot of assets in your own name before your marriage • what happens if you have a business. Business owners need early advice on all issues, including tax consequences. 2.1/6 Reliance Dr Tuggerah NSW 2259 29 Smith St Charlestown NSW 2290

section and each performer is given a helpful written critique on their performance. Championships are held for qualified performers and Scholarships are also awarded

where there are sufficient entries. Adjudicators have praised the high standard of performances in the Central Coast Eisteddfod over its many years. A number of well-known performers are past eisteddfod entrants, including: Natalie Imbruglia; dancer Joshua Horner, who plays the lead in Billy Elliot The Musical; dancer and singer, the late Belinda Emmett; Amy Campbell, who placed second in the 2009 season of Channel 10s “So You Think You Can Dance; Ben McKenzie, who was a contestant on season five of Channel 10’s Australian Idol; and up-and-coming international opera singer, Lucy Baille. Source: Media release, Jul 25 Central Coast Eisteddfod

Turn to TurnbullHill He’ll give you guidance on how to avoid costly court disputes and will also explain the different steps involved when cases proceed through the Family Court (in situations where there is no choice but to go to court). Because of his experience, Stuart understands the pressures of breaking up and will point out some of the common problems in Family Law property disputes and how to avoid them. To register for our online session visit our website.

turnbullhill.com.au enquiries@turnbullhill.com.au

Stuart Robertson Family Lawyer

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

ABC (C20/21)

Friday 30 July

6:00 9:00 10:00 11:00 11:05 12:00 1:00 1:30 2:00 3:00 4:00 5:00 5:30 6:00 7:00 7:30 8:00 8:30 10:00 11:00 11:15 11:35 12:05 6:00 7:00 10:00 11:00

Saturday 31 July

12:00 12:30 1:20 2:25 3:25 4:25 4:40 5:10 5:40 6:10 7:00 7:30 8:20 9:05

Sunday 1 August

9:55 11:25 6:00 7:00 9:00 10:00 10:30 11:00 11:30 12:00 12:30 1:30 2:00 2:30 3:15 4:00 5:00 5:30 6:30 7:00 7:40 8:30 9:15 10:15 11:15

PRIME (C61/60)

News Breakfast [s] ABC News Mornings [s] Q&A [s] Coronavirus: Public Update George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces [s] ABC News At Noon [s] Foreign Correspondent [s] That Pacific Sports Show [s] The Trouble With Maggie Cole (M) [s] ABC News Afternoons [s] Escape From The City [s] Anh’s Brush With Fame (PG) Hard Quiz (PG) [s] The Drum [s] ABC News [s] Movin’ To The Country [s] Dream Gardens [s] Midsomer Murders (M) [s] Baptiste: Vertrouwen (M) [s] ABC Late News [s] The Vaccine [s] Shaun Micallef’s Mad As Hell (M) [s] Starstruck (M l,d) [s] rage (PG) [s] Weekend Breakfast [s] rage (PG) [s] rage Guest Programmer (PG) [s] ABC News At Noon [s] Grand Designs: House Of The Year [s] Restoration Australia [s] And We Danced [s] Back In Time For Dinner (PG) [s] Chopsticks Or Fork? [s] Landline [s] Scottish Vets Down Under (PG) [s] Silvia’s Italian Table (PG) [s] The Repair Shop [s] ABC News [s] The Durrells (PG) [s] Belgravia (PG) [s] The Trouble With Maggie Cole (PG) [s] Endeavour: Raga (M v) [s] rage Guest Programmer (MA15+) [s] rage (PG) [s] Weekend Breakfast [s] Insiders [s] Offsiders [s] The World This Week [s] Compass [s] Songs Of Praise [s] ABC News At Noon [s] Landline [s] Movin’ To The Country (PG) Dream Gardens [s] Shakespeare And Hathaway (PG) [s] Scottish Vets Down Under (PG) [s] The Sound (PG) [s] Art Works [s] Antiques Roadshow (PG) [s] Compass [s] ABC News Sunday [s] Kevin’s Grand Designs [s] Innocent (M l) [s] Agatha Christie’s The ABC Murders (M l,v) [s] Operation Buffalo (M l,v) [s] Line Of Duty (M v) [s]

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

6:00 Sunrise [s] – Wake up to a better breakfast with Natalie Barr and David Koch for all the latest news, sport and weather. 9:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 7 - Morning Session *Live* [s] – Live coverage of the Tokyo Olympics, hosted by Joh Griggs and Luke Darcy. 12:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 7 - Day Session *Live* [s] 3:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 7 - Afternoon Session *Live* [s] 5:30 The Chase Australia (PG) [s] 6:00 Seven News [s] 7:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 7 - Primetime Session *Live* [s] 10:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 7 - Late Evening Session *Live* [s] 12:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 7 - Overnight Session *Live* [s] 3:00 Home Shopping 6:00 Weekend Sunrise [s] 9:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 8 - Morning Session *Live* 12:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 8 - Day Session *Live* [s] 3:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 8 - Afternoon Session *Live* [s] 6:00 Seven News [s] 7:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 8 - Primetime Session *Live* [s] – Live coverage of Tokyo Olympics, hosted by Hamish McLachlan and Abbey Gelmi. 10:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 8 - Late Evening Session *Live* [s] – Live coverage of Tokyo Olympics, featuring Tokyo Shinya, hosted by Andy Maher, Lisa Sthalekar and Andrew Gaze. 12:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 8 - Overnight Session *Live* [s] 3:00 Home Shopping 6:00 Weekend Sunrise [s] 9:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 9 - Morning Session *Live* 12:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 9 - Day Session *Live* [s] 3:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 9 - Afternoon Session *Live* [s] 6:00 Seven News [s] 7:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 9 - Primetime Session *Live* [s] 10:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 9 - Late Evening Session *Live* [s] – Live coverage of Tokyo Olympics, featuring Tokyo Shinya, hosted by Andy Maher, Lisa Sthalekar and Andrew Gaze. 12:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 9 - Overnight Session *Live* [s] – Live coverage of Tokyo Olympics, featuring Tokyo Shinya, hosted by Andy Maher, Lisa Sthalekar and Andrew Gaze.

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

NINE (C81/80)

5:30 9:00 11:30 12:00 12:15 2:00 3:00 4:00 5:00 6:00 7:00 7:30 9:50 10:35

1:00 2:00 6:00 10:00 12:00 12:30 1:00 1:10 2:10 5:00 5:30 6:00 7:00 7:30 8:30

10:50 12:40 1:30 2:00 6:00 10:00 11:00 1:00 1:50 3:00 6:00 7:00 8:30 9:30 10:00

11:45 12:40 1:30

TEN (C10)

Today [s] 6:00 The Talk (PG) [s] 7:00 Judge Judy (PG) [s] Today Extra (PG) [s] NINE’s Morning News [s] 7:30 The Bold And The Beautiful (PG) [s] Talking Honey: Princess Diana (PG) [s] 8:00 Studio 10 (PG) [s] Movie: “A Summer To 12:00 Dr Phil (PG) [s] Remember” (PG) (’18) Stars: 1:00 The Living Room [s] Catherine Bell 2:00 Entertainment Tonight [s] 2:30 Farm To Fork (PG) [s] Pointless (PG) [s] Tipping Point (PG) [s] 3:00 Judge Judy (PG) [s] NINE’s Afternoon News [s] 3:30 My Market Kitchen [s] Millionaire Hot Seat [s] 4:00 Everyday Gourmet [s] 4:30 The Bold And The Beautiful NINE News [s] (PG) [s] A Current Affair [s] NRL: Brisbane Broncos v North 5:00 10 News First [s] 6:00 WIN News [s] Queensland Cowboys *Live* From Suncorp Stadium, 6:30 The Project (PG) [s] Brisbane [s] 7:30 The Living Room [s] Golden Point (M) [s] 8:30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (M l,s) [s] Movie: “Southpaw” (MA15+) 9:30 Program To Be Advised (’15) Stars: Jake Gyllenhaal, 10:30 The Graham Norton Show Rachel McAdams, Forest (M l,s) [s] Whitaker, Oona Laurence, 50 11:30 The Project (PG) [s] Cent, Skylan Brooks 12:30 The Late Show (PG) [s] Surfing Australia TV [s] 1:30 Home Shopping Home Shopping 6:00 Reel Action [s] Weekend Today [s] 6:30 Religious Programs [s] Today Extra - Saturday [s] 7:00 Seafood Escape [s] The Call [s] 7:30 The Offroad Adventure Show The Rebound [s] 8:30 RV Daily Foodie Trails (PG) Explore [s] 9:00 Place We Go [s] The Weakest Link (PG) [s] Beauty And The Geek (PG) [s] 9:30 Studio 10 Saturday (PG) [s] NINE News: First At Five [s] 12:00 The Dog House UK (PG) [s] 2:00 Pooches At Play [s] Getaway (PG) [s] 2:30 Jamie’s Easy Meals For NINE News Saturday [s] Every Day[s] A Current Affair [s] David Attenborough’s Life In 3:00 What’s Up Down Under [s] Colour: Chasing Colour (PG) 3:30 My Market Kitchen [s] 4:00 Farm To Fork (PG) [s] Movie: “Gemini Man” (M v) 4:30 Taste Of Australia [s] (’19) – Henry is an ageing 5:00 10 News First [s] assassin who finds himself being chased by someone with 6:00 Jamie’s Easy Meals For Every Day [s] the ability to predict his moves. 6:30 Bondi Rescue (PG) [s] Stars: Will Smith Movie: “Survivor” (M l,v) (’15) 7:00 The Dog House UK (PG) [s] 8:00 Ambulance Australia (M) [s] Stars: Paddy Wallace 9:00 Ambulance UK (M d) [s] Australia’s Top Ten Of 10:00 Program To Be Advised Everything: Cracking 11:00 Blue Bloods (M v) [s] Conversations (M) [s] 1:00 Home Shopping The Rebound [s] Home Shopping 5:00 Religious Programs Weekend Today [s] 6:00 Religious Programs [s] Sports Sunday (PG) [s] 8:00 Pooches At Play [s] Sunday Footy Show (PG) [s] 8:30 Destination Dessert [s] Peaking (PG) [s] 9:00 Australia By Design: Beauty And The Geek (PG) [s] Interiors [s] NRL: Cronulla Sharks v Manly 9:30 Studio 10 Sunday (PG) [s] Sea Eagles *Live* From 12:00 Left Off The Map [s] Netstrata Stadium, Kogarah [s] 12:30 Good Chef Bad Chef [s] NINE News Sunday [s] 1:00 Three Veg And Meat [s] Beauty And The Geek: 1:30 Freshly Picked With Simon Makeover Special (PG) [s] Toohey [s] 60 Minutes [s] 2:00 My Market Kitchen [s] NINE News Late [s] 2:30 Everyday Gourmet With The Disappearance Of Susan Justine Schofield [s] Cox Powell: If Something 3:00 Program To Be Advised Happens To Me (M) [s] – A 4:30 Farm To Fork (PG) [s] young mother in Utah vanishes 5:00 10 News First [s] and the only suspect, her 6:00 WIN News [s] husband, acts suspiciously. 6:30 The Sunday Project (PG) [s] Stephanie Bauer examines 7:30 Australian Survivor (PG) [s] never-before-seen home video 9:00 FBI: Leverage (M v) [s] recordings.. 10:00 FBI: Studio Gangster (M v) [s] Killed By My Stalker (M l,v) [s] 11:00 FBI: Identity Crisis (M v) [s] Dr Christian Jessen Will See 12:00 The Sunday Project (PG) [s] You Now (M n) [s] 1:00 Home Shopping Home Shopping 4:30 CBS This Morning [s]

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

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

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

SBS (C30)

5:30 Worldwatch 1:00 PBS Newshour 2:00 The World’s Most Extraordinary Homes: Coast (PG) 3:00 NITV News: Nula 3:30 I Am Black And Beautiful (PG) 3:40 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:15 The Secret Life Of: Al Capone (PG) 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 I Am Jackie O (M v) 9:00 Jane Goodall: My Life With Chimpanzees (PG) 10:35 SBS World News 11:05 Patriot Brains (M l,s) 12:00 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) 12:55 The Hot Zone: Expendable/ Quarantine/ Hidden (M v) 3:40 Alex Polizzi The Fixer (PG) 5:30 Worldwatch 1:00 PBS Newshour 2:00 Destination Flavour China Bitesize 2:05 Motor Sports: Superbike World Championship 3:05 Rhythmic Gymnastics: World Cup Series, Pesaro 2020 4:35 Planet Expedition: Suriname Ghost River (PG) 5:35 Swamp Ghost (PG) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Hemingway (PG) 9:25 Movie: “The Keeper” (M l,v) (’18) Stars: David Kross, Freya Mavor, John Henshaw, Harry Melling (In English/ German) 11:30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) 1:25 Movie: “Amelie” (M n,s) (’01) Stars: Audrey Tautou, Mathieu Kassovitz, Jamel Debbouze, Lorella Cravotta, Serge Merlin (In French) 2:35 Mission Control (PG) 4:25 Vice Guide To Film (MA15+) 5:30 Worldwatch 1:00 Speedweek 3:00 Gymnastics: Artistic World Challenge Cup, Varna 2020 (Part 1) 5:00 Great British Railway Journeys (PG) 5:30 WWII: Battles For Europe: D-Day (In English/ German) 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 The Beatles: Eight Days A Week (M l) – A compilation of found footage featuring music, interviews, and stories of The Beatles’ 250 concerts from 1963 to 1966. 9:30 Lennon’s Last Weekend (M d) 10:40 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (M l,s) 11:35 24 Hours In Emergency: Acts Of Love (M l) 12:30 Life And Birth (M) 3:55 Stopping Male Suicide (MA15+) 4:50 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize

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

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Monday 2 August

ABC (C20/21)

6:00 9:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 1:00 1:45 2:05 3:00 4:00 5:00 5:30 6:00 7:00 7:30 8:00 8:30 9:15 9:35 10:35 11:10

News Breakfast [s] ABC News Mornings [s] Landline [s] Kevin’s Grand Designs [s] ABC News At Noon [s] The Durrells (PG) [s] Chopsticks Or Fork? [s] Harrow (MA15+) [s] ABC News Afternoons [s] Escape From The City [s] Anh’s Brush With Fame (PG) Hard Quiz (PG) [s] The Drum [s] ABC News [s] 7.30 [s] Australian Story [s] Four Corners [s] Media Watch (PG) [s] Maggie Beer In Japan [s] ABC Late News [s] The Truth About Fasting - A Catalyst Special [s] Baptiste: Vertrouwen (M) [s] Maggie Beer In Japan [s] rage (MA15+) [s] The Drum [s]

6:00 Sunrise [s] 9:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 10 - Morning Session *Live* 12:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 10 - Day Session *Live* [s] 3:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 10 - Afternoon Session *Live* [s] 5:30 The Chase Australia (PG) [s] – The Chase, a general knowledge race where players must ensure they stay one step ahead of the Chaser, some of the finest quiz brains. 6:00 Seven News [s] 7:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 10 - Primetime Session *Live* [s] 10:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 10 - Late Evening Session *Live* [s] 12:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 10 - Overnight Session *Live* [s] 3:00 Home Shopping

News Breakfast [s] ABC News Mornings [s] Four Corners [s] Antiques Roadshow (PG) [s] ABC News At Noon [s] Belgravia (PG) [s] Parliament Question Time [s] ABC News Afternoons [s] Escape From The City [s] Anh’s Brush With Fame (PG) Hard Quiz (PG) [s] The Drum [s] ABC News [s] 7.30 [s] Ms Represented With Annabel Crabb [s] The Wildlife Revolution - A Catalyst Special [s] And We Danced [s] ABC Late News [s] Q&A [s] Parliament Question Time [s] Putin: A Russian Spy Story: Enemies And Traitors (PG) [s] Agatha Christie’s The ABC Murders (M l,v) [s]

6:00 Sunrise [s] 9:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 11 - Morning Session *Live* 12:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 11 - Day Session *Live* [s] 3:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 11 - Afternoon Session *Live* [s] 5:30 The Chase Australia (PG) [s] 6:00 Seven News [s] – Live coverage of breaking news and local, national and international top stories, plus sport, finance and weather updates. 7:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 11 - Primetime Session *Live* [s] 10:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 11 - Late Evening Session *Live* [s] – Live coverage of Tokyo Olympics. 12:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 11 - Overnight Session *Live* [s] 3:00 Home Shopping

6:00 News Breakfast [s] 9:00 ABC News Mornings [s] 10:00 The Recording Studio (PG) [s] 11:00 The Repair Shop [s] 12:00 ABC News At Noon [s] 12:30 National Press Club Address 1:35 Media Watch (PG) [s] 2:00 Parliament Question Time [s] 3:15 ABC News Afternoons [s] 4:00 Escape From The City [s] 5:00 Anh’s Brush With Fame (PG) 5:30 Hard Quiz (PG) [s] 6:00 The Drum [s] 7:00 ABC News [s] 7:30 7.30 [s] 8:00 Win The Week [s] 8:30 Shaun Micallef’s Mad As Hell (M) [s] 9:00 Rosehaven [s] 9:30 Would I Lie To You? (PG) [s] 10:00 Staged: Long Time, No See (MA15+) [s] 10:25 ABC Late News [s] 10:55 Four Corners [s] 11:40 Media Watch (PG) [s] 12:00 Parliament Question Time [s]

6:00 Sunrise [s] – Wake up to a better breakfast with Natalie Barr and David Koch. 9:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 12 - Morning Session *Live* 12:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 12 - Day Session *Live* [s] 3:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 12 - Afternoon Session *Live* [s] 5:30 The Chase Australia (PG) [s] 6:00 Seven News [s] – Live coverage of breaking news and local, national and international top stories. 7:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 12 - Primetime Session *Live* [s] 10:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 12 - Late Evening Session *Live* [s] 12:00 Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 12 - Overnight Session *Live* [s] 3:00 Home Shopping

Tuesday 3 August

12:10 1:05 2:10 4:30 6:00 9:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 1:00 2:00 3:15 4:00 4:55 5:30 6:00 7:00 7:30 8:00 8:35 9:35 10:35 11:10 12:10 1:15

Wednesday 4 August

2:00

Thursday 5 August

PRIME (C61/60)

6:00 6:00 News Breakfast [s] 9:00 9:00 ABC News Mornings [s] 9:55 Australian Story [s] 10:30 Ms Represented With Annabel 12:00 Crabb [s] 11:10 Grand Designs Revisited [s] 3:00 12:00 ABC News At Noon [s] 1:00 Win The Week [s] 1:30 Shaun Micallef’s Mad As Hell 5:30 (M) [s] 2:00 Parliament Question Time [s] 3:15 ABC News Afternoons [s] 4:00 Escape From The City [s] 5:00 Anh’s Brush With Fame (PG) 5:30 Hard Quiz (PG) [s] 6:00 The Drum [s] 6:00 6:55 Sammy J (PG) [s] 7:00 7:00 ABC News [s] 7:30 7.30 [s] 8:00 Foreign Correspondent [s] 8:30 Q&A [s] 10:00 9:35 Tall Poppy: A Skater’s Story (PG) [s] 12:00 11:05 ABC Late News [s] 11:35 Putin: A Russian Spy Story: Putin Forever (M l) [s]

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

Sunrise [s] Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 13 - Morning Session *Live* [s] Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 13 - Day Session *Live* [s] Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 13 - Afternoon Session *Live* [s] The Chase Australia (PG) [s] – The Chase, a general knowledge race where players must ensure they stay one step ahead of the Chaser, some of the finest quiz brains in Australia. Seven News [s] Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 13 - Primetime Session *Live* [s] Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 13 - Late Evening Session *Live* [s] Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Day 13 - Overnight Session *Live* [s]

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

TEN (C10)

NINE (C81/80)

5:30 9:00 11:30 12:00 12:30 2:00 3:00 4:00 5:00 6:00 7:00 7:30 8:40 9:40

10:40 11:10 12:05 1:00 1:30 5:30 9:00 11:30 12:00 1:00 2:00 3:00 4:00 5:00 6:00 7:00 7:30 8:40 10:40 11:10

12:05 1:00 5:30 9:00 11:30 12:00 1:00 2:00 3:00 4:00 5:00 6:00 7:00 7:30

8:30 10:50 11:00 12:15 1:00 5:30 9:00 11:30 12:00 1:00 2:00 3:00 4:00 5:00 6:00 7:00 7:30 9:45 10:30 11:00 11:50 12:40 1:30

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

PAGE 21 30 JULY 2021

SBS (C30)

Today [s] 6:00 Today Extra (PG) [s] 7:00 NINE’s Morning News [s] 7:30 Getaway (PG) [s] Beauty And The Geek (PG) [s] 8:00 Pointless (PG) [s] 12:00 Tipping Point (PG) [s] 1:00 NINE’s Afternoon News [s] 2:30 3:00 Millionaire Hot Seat [s] 3:30 NINE News [s] 4:00 A Current Affair [s] Beauty And The Geek (PG) [s] Botched: Necrotic Nightmare 4:30 (M mp,n) [s] 5:00 100% Footy (M) [s] – Phil 6:00 Gould, Paul Gallen, James 6:30 Bracey and more debate the 7:30 biggest issues in Rugby 8:30 League alongside the games most influential figures. NINE News Late [s] 9:30 The Arrangement: The New Narrative (M l,s,v) [s] 11:00 Tipping Point (PG) [s] 12:00 A Current Affair [s] Home Shopping 1:00

The Talk (PG) [s] Judge Judy (PG) [s] The Bold And The Beautiful (PG) [s] Studio 10 (PG) [s] Dr Phil (PG) [s] Program To Be Advised Entertainment Tonight [s] Judge Judy (PG) [s] My Market Kitchen [s] Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield [s] The Bold And The Beautiful (PG) [s] 10 News First [s] WIN News [s] The Project (PG) [s] Australian Survivor (PG) [s] Have You Been Paying Attention? (MA15+) [s] Kitty Flanagan: Smashing (MA15+) [s] The Project (PG) [s] The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (PG) [s] Home Shopping

5:30 Worldwatch 2:00 The World’s Most Extraordinary Homes: Underground 3:05 Great British Railway Journeys (PG) 3:40 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:10 Walking Britain’s Lost Railways: Scotland 5:05 Jeopardy! 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Becoming Bond (MA15+) 9:15 Marley (M d) – Kevin Macdonald delivers the definitive work on Bob Marley, his life and a truly global influence. 11:25 SBS World News 11:55 The Investigation (M) (In Danish/ Swedish) 12:45 Das Boot (MA15+) (In German/ English/ French) 4:05 Vice Guide To Film (M l,v)

Today [s] 6:00 Today Extra (PG) [s] 7:00 NINE’s Morning News [s] 7:30 Desperate Housewives: City On Fire (M s) [s] 8:00 Beauty And The Geek (PG) [s] 12:00 Pointless (PG) [s] 1:00 Tipping Point (PG) [s] 2:00 NINE’s Afternoon News [s] 2:30 Millionaire Hot Seat [s] 3:00 NINE News [s] 3:30 A Current Affair (PG) [s] 4:00 Beauty And The Geek (PG) [s] Movie: “Bad Moms” (MA15+) 4:30 (’16) Stars: Mila Kunis NINE News Late [s] 5:00 Emergence: Killshot (Part 1) 6:00 (M v) [s] – Jo makes a high6:30 stakes deal to take down Helen 7:30 and keep Piper safe. Helen 9:00 attempts to replicate Piper’s 10:00 powers for herself, and Benny 11:30 struggles to earn back Jo’s 12:30 trust before it’s too late. Tipping Point (PG) [s] 1:30 A Current Affair [s] 4:30

The Talk (PG) [s] Judge Judy (PG) [s] The Bold And The Beautiful (PG) [s] Studio 10 (PG) [s] Dr Phil (M s,mp) [s] Program To Be Advised Entertainment Tonight [s] Farm To Fork (PG) [s] Judge Judy (PG) [s] My Market Kitchen [s] Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield [s] The Bold And The Beautiful (PG) [s] 10 News First [s] WIN News [s] The Project (PG) [s] Australian Survivor (PG) [s] The Cheap Seats (M l) [s] Akmal: Transparent (MA15+) The Project (PG) [s] The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (PG) [s] Home Shopping CBS This Morning [s]

5:30 Worldwatch 1:00 PBS Newshour 2:00 Destination Flavour China Bitesize 2:15 World’s Most Luxurious Trains 3:05 Great British Railway Journeys (PG) 3:40 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) 4:10 Walking Britain’s Lost Railways: Sheffield 5:05 Jeopardy! (PG) 5:30 Letters And Numbers 6:00 Mastermind 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Who Do You Think You Are?: Cameron Daddo (PG) 8:30 Insight: Life Undercover 9:30 Dateline: Sumo Nation 10:00 The Feed 10:30 SBS World News 11:00 Cacciatore: The Hunter: A Street Magistrate (MA15+) (In Italian) 12:00 Cardinal (MA15+)

6:00 Today [s] 7:00 Today Extra (PG) [s] 7:30 NINE’s Morning News [s] Desperate Housewives: Me 8:00 And My Town (M s) [s] Beauty And The Geek (PG) [s] 12:00 1:00 Pointless (PG) [s] 2:10 Tipping Point (PG) [s] 2:30 NINE’s Afternoon News [s] 3:00 Millionaire Hot Seat [s] 3:30 NINE News [s] 4:00 A Current Affair (PG) [s] Travel Guides: Hawaii (PG) [s] – In the premiere episode our 4:30 guides jet off on a week-long 5:00 holiday in tropical Hawaii, but 6:00 it’s not all Mai Tais and Hula 6:30 dancing. Movie: “Instant Family” (M) 7:30 (’18) Stars: Mark Wahlberg 8:40 NINE News Late [s] 9:40 The First 48: Rocky Road/ 10:30 Something She Said (M) [s] 11:30 Bluff City Law: 25 Years To Life (M) [s] 12:30 A Current Affair (PG) [s] 4:30

The Talk (PG) [s] 5:30 Judge Judy (PG) [s] The Bold And The Beautiful (PG) [s] Studio 10 (PG) [s] Dr Phil (M d) [s] 1:00 Program To Be Advised 2:00 Entertainment Tonight [s] Farm To Fork (PG) [s] 2:10 Judge Judy (PG) [s] 2:40 My Market Kitchen [s] 3:40 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield [s] 4:10 The Bold And The Beautiful (PG) [s] 5:05 10 News First [s] 5:30 WIN News [s] 6:00 The Project (PG) [s] 6:30 The Bachelor Australia (M) [s] 7:30 Bull: Quid Pro Quo (M mp) [s] Bull: Flesh And Blood (M v) [s] 8:30 The Project (PG) [s] 10:35 The Late Show With Stephen 11:05 Colbert (PG) [s] Home Shopping 11:50 CBS This Morning [s] 4:35

Worldwatch – Deutsche Welle English News 6:00 France 24 News 6:30 Al Jazeera English News 7:00 BBC News 7:30 Worldwatch Continues PBS Newshour Destination Flavour China Bitesize Dateline: Sumo Nation Insight: Life Undercover The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) Walking Britain’s Lost Railways: Dartmoor Jeopardy! (PG) Letters And Numbers Mastermind SBS World News Jackie Chan: Building An Icon (M) (In English/ French) Billy Graham (PG) SBS World News Unknown Amazon: Secrets Of Survival (M) Trapped (M l,s,v) (In Icelandic) Vice Guide To Film (MA15+)

6:00 Today [s] 7:00 Today Extra (PG) [s] 7:30 NINE’s Morning News [s] Desperate Housewives: A Vision’s Just A Vision (M s) [s] 8:00 Travel Guides: Hawaii (PG) [s] 12:00 1:00 Pointless (PG) [s] 2:10 Tipping Point (PG) [s] 2:30 NINE’s Afternoon News [s] 3:00 Millionaire Hot Seat [s] 3:30 NBN News [s] 4:00 A Current Affair [s] NRL: Newcastle Knights v Brisbane Broncos *Live* From 4:30 McDonald Jones Stadium, 5:00 Newcastle [s] 6:30 Thursday Night Knock Off (M) [s] – Join the Wide World of 7:30 Sports team for the all the post- 8:40 match NRL news and analysis. NINE News Late [s] Chicago Med: Can’t Unring 10:30 That Bell (M mp) [s] 11:30 The Bad Seed (M d,l,v) [s] 12:30 Tipping Point (PG) [s] Home Shopping 1:30

The Talk (PG) [s] 5:00 Judge Judy (PG) [s] 5:15 The Bold And The Beautiful 5:30 (PG) [s] 1:00 Studio 10 (PG) [s] 2:00 Dr Phil (PG) [s] Program To Be Advised 2:15 Entertainment Tonight [s] Farm To Fork (PG) [s] 3:05 Judge Judy (PG) [s] My Market Kitchen [s] 3:40 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield [s] 4:10 The Bold And The Beautiful (PG) [s] 5:05 10 News First [s] 5:30 The Project (PG) [s] 6:00 The Bachelor Australia (M) [s] 6:30 Law & Order: SVU: I Deserve 7:30 Some Love Too/ Swimming With The Sharks (M) [s] 8:30 Blue Bloods: Happy Endings (M v) [s] 9:40 The Project (PG) [s] 10:40 The Late Show (PG) [s] 11:10 Home Shopping

France 24 Feature News NHK World English News Worldwatch PBS Newshour Destination Flavour China Bitesize The World’s Most Luxurious Super Yachts (PG) Great British Railway Journeys (PG) The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG) Walking Britain’s Lost Railways (PG) Jeopardy! (PG) Letters And Numbers Mastermind SBS World News Jane Fonda (In English/ French) Who Do You Think You Are?: Kate Winslet (PG) The Good Fight (M) SBS World News Border To Border: Kenya And Tanzania (Part 1 And 2) (M)

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

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

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

PAGE 22 30 JULY 2021

PUZZLES

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

ACROSS 1. Kitchen professional 4. Protest sign 8. Roast 11. Diminish 13. Ancient Andes Indians 15. Conceded (goal) (3,2) 17. Money fold 18. French farewell 20. First woman 21. Flipped around, vice ... 24. Lazy person 27. Product promos 28. Satellite path 30. ‘Laughing’ scavenger 31. Bee wound 33. Mouth sores 34. Food retailer 35. Split apart 36. Young goats 39. Gluttonous 42. African striped beast 44. Skull 45. Cut (timber) 46. After that 48. Congeals (of blood) 49. Fencing swords 50. Serpents 52. Toss 54. Scalp growth 55. Yell 56. Raw vegetable dishes 57. Body lump, lymph ... 60. Spoken test

MISSING LINK

MISSING LINK T

K N E H O I R E A A N O D D N E S L D S E C L P S E S S E E G A U I Y E B T K R

DOWN 1. Nursery rhyme, Old King 2. Diner 3. The Feds (1,1,1) 4. Nobleman 5. For keeps 6. Lending a hand to 7. Clock face 8. Rotten 9. Korean or Thai 10. Large Australian birds 12. Smithy block 14. From menu, a la ... 16. Conjure up (memories) 19. Bordered 22. Engraved with acid

A R

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TO AK E S

S O U S

A S K B P E E U S L E L A L A T E A E T I Y H

N I S

S E A U I E A N B E O S R E

LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS Missing Link Solution:

Missing Link Solution:

Q F S UG A A M L Y R E O O D OW L T E C S A S H B E J U I C

K V R K N E A D H O I A WA N T D N E S S A D S E X L I P S E E N U S E S G P A Y Z E B R A

CCN

23. Destroys (papers) 25. Mended (socks) 26. Guide 29. Financial estimates 32. Rile 35. Long-tailed US mammal 37. Interior 38. Embark on voyage (3,4) 40. Grates 41. Pleasure boat 42. Noughts 43. Onward 44. Amass stock 47. Part of a serial 51. Huts 52. Scuffle 53. Thin biscuits 54. Chopped roughly 58. Start (of ailment) 59. Age 61. Showy flower 63. Sudden fear 64. Liqueur, creme de ... 65. Tended (towards) 66. Mournful poem 68. Name 71. Enchant 72. Lie in wait 74. Search (for) 76. Doubtful 78. Take (baby) off breast milk 80. Slippery fish 83. Zodiac lion

Fill in each letter of the alphabet once only.

S U A L O W T S A

62. Ethnic bias 65. Oozed 67. Pursue stealthily 69. Control stick 70. Choose 72. Frangipani garland 73. Pale 75. Stage whisper 77. Use axe 79. Complete 81. Brown in sun 82. Angry look 84. Yellow citrus fruit 85. Reception area 86. Fall (over) 87. Pancake day, Shrove ... 88. Premonition

Q F T U B A A K H Y P E O U S OW L K P L S O Y A N T J U I C S H

K V S V I S A S B N N E G I S T E L E S S O A S E X A T E A U I E M E A N D B L Y Z E R O S R E

CCN

The Low Desert: Gangster Stories

Author: Tod Goldberg Publisher: Counterpoint

I am not a fan of short stories … they always leave me unsatisfied. Just when I feel I am getting a grasp on the characters, the story ends and I am left hanging, wondering what would have happened if only there were a few more chapters to read. When I purchased The Low Desert I had either forgotten it was a collection of short stories or didn’t do enough research. Then I read the first chapter

… and I was hooked. A DJ with a gunshot wound, a slimy lawyer and a clown – it doesn’t get any better than that. Can’t wait to see what happens next, and then … Bam! Game over. Next story begins. This one is Noir. The writing is tight and edgy and, needless to say, dark. The characters are flawed. The dialogue is fantastic. There is Morris, a security guard for Claxson Oil. The oil company owns the town which is set in the California desert in 1962. Since the town is sixty miles away from Palm Springs, Morris is the closest thing to law that the town has. There is a saltwater lake that has just revealed a secret.

BOOK REVIEW

Morris later shows up as a sheriff in 2013 battling cancer in India Wells. “How many friends of mine are gone? All of them, even if they are still alive.” Bam again, next story. Tania, is a cocktail waitress in Reno, then Vegas, now Palm Springs. A while ago she won some

money and used those funds to adopt a young girl from Russia named Natalya. When Natalya turned 18 she disappeared. Now Tania spends her off time searching online for her missing daughter. Blake is an ex-military “goon” taking some college classes, learning how to be a DJ, or talkradio host, or whatever it is the

OUT&ABOUT PAGE 23 30 JULY 2021

class is teaching. His sister signed him up as a joke. Turns out he is an asset to the teacher. Bam. Gangsters are everywhere, rabbis, restaurant owners, car dealerships. Guys skimming from the top so they can get out of the business, go legit. Good luck to them. There are guys who have been born into crime families. Not liking what they do, but that is all they know. Cops that walk a very fine line. The characters in Goldberg’s stories are all so lonely, that is what got me most. The settings are isolated, it is the desert after all. Who is good and bad? The

lines are not clear, bad things are done with good intentions. Although I am not a fan of shorts stories, I was a big fan of this book. I liked that some of the characters came back again – it was nice to reconnect. I hadn’t heard of Tod Goldberg before, but he has quite a list of writing credits to his name. Among his other works of fiction are Gangster Nation, Gansterland and Living Dead Girl. Apparently, some of the characters in The Low Desert are from Gangster Nation and Gansterland. I think I might give those books a try and see what these “goons” were up to before I met them. Kim Reardon The Reluctant Book Critic

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DOWN IN THE GARDEN: CREATE A ZEN-INSPIRED GARDEN OASIS answer, so are benches and stools created from old tree stumps and upcycled weather resistant materials. My favourite bench in my garden is just an old sleeper bolted to a couple of tree stumps or go all the way with a lounge or day bed. Sculptures

CHERALYN DARCEY

The concept of ‘Zen’ gardening probably conjures up visions of monks exercising vows of silence while sitting in crossed-legged meditation or crystal windchimes dancing amongst wafts of incense but stay with me. What is ‘Zen’ to one of us is going to be irritatingly nerve jangling or uncomfortable to another so let’s explore ways that will reflect your personal tastes, budget, and available areas to create personal calm inducing spaces. Officially Zen is a type of Buddhism with a focus on meditation and awareness. In modern terms it has come to mean feeling peaceful and relaxed and we can easily make small changes to our way of doing things in our garden and in what we include in it to inspire tranquilly. Learn to Potter We say it, but do we really do it? Pottering in the garden involves no plans, no trailer loads of mulch, plants, and expectations. Just walk to your garden space (indoor or out) and wander around, pulling a weed here, plucking off a pest there and deadheading as you go. Maybe even planting that packet of seeds which you forgot about in your last gardening blitz or repotting a botanical friend who needs a bit more space. The point is that you are not goal or outcome driven. This is like a walk in the park, observing, relaxing and just taking in the view. In fact, bring a cup or glass of your favourite beverage with you, throw on some music if you like and potter away. My favourite pottering time is mornings and yes, I do leave my PJs on. Seating I think any garden or botanical spot with a peaceful vibe needs a seat of some sort. While it is lovely to wander and to stand around a garden created for calm, being able to sit is important. To rest yourself physically as well as mentally and to just ‘be’ within the space for as long as you need is far better achieved with a seat. While outdoor furniture is one

This can be the form of a created sculpture of any size or a nature feature that serves as a sculptural piece. An interesting log, an old piece of machinery or equipment. Sculpture in the garden rests our minds with something of beauty or makes us curious and in turn this takes our thoughts away from what may be disrupting our peace. The elephant in the garden is probably garden gnomes and I am not about to comment on your taste so if you like them … if they or a 10-foothigh Buddha, collection of fairies or for that matter, an elephant figure are your idea of peaceful bliss then … do it! Open Areas A great expanse of nothingness could also be your idea of Zen, but even if you find sitting in a jungle of green soothing, a small clear space within gives you a place to rest your gaze and is a design element that will enhance the garden by providing contrast between the full and the void. You may also enjoy sitting, lying, or collapsing on the grass after a particularly stressful day. Indoor Oasis The houseplant craze is well and truly upon us and to be honest, I’m a fan. It’s created a lot of new gardencurious people and that’s not a bad

thing at all. While you may not need an Instagram-worthy indoor curation of plants, having an area with an inviting chair surrounded by botanical goodness would qualify as a Zen indoor garden in my books. Adding plants to areas of high traffic and family activity can also help calm the vibe. Water Features Fountains, fishponds and water plant features are all such soothing and alluring places in gardens and if you have the space and the desire then you really should investigate. Should you already have a pool or spa, consider surrounding with some of the plants listed below to add to the Zen.

GARDEN RESCUE

Nad from Woongarrah writes: “Hi Cheralyn, My orange tree has plenty of fruit but for the past 2 months they are still a bit sour to eat. Last crop we had were nice and sweet and came at different time of the year, this lot started to appear in Autumn. Is it something I have to add to the soil? I have been feeding it every 3 months and spraying it. Do I have to wait until they fall of the tree before eating – the ones that fall off the tree are usually bad and slit opened.” Hi Nad, That’s a great crop!

Early drop of citrus fruit happens due to sudden temperature changes or inconsistent/insufficient watering. Oranges need warmth to sweeten and picking too early will also often mean sour fruit. I’m writing this during a bit of warm spell here for the Central Coast for this time of year so that may improve your crop this year. If not, all is not lost as sour oranges are brilliant for cooking. Think candied peel, marmalades, chutneys, sauces, and baked treats. You don’t have to wait for them to fall off the tree, but they should come away easily with a simple twist.

Why water makes us feel calm is not really known but it has been shown to slow our brainwaves and there is some evidence that the sounds we could hear in the womb, a time we would have felt safe, are reminiscent of other water sounds. Calm Inducing Plants What’s a Zen Garden without plants? You could have a completely hardscaped design that gave you a blank canvas to meditate upon but adding a few plants that are known to have additional anxiety-reducing and calm evoking properties will make your green space more peaceful. Firstly, consider greening up areas with soft textured plants which are within reach that suit your environment, and this could include ferns, shrubs, and grasses. The gentle movements in caught breezes will calm the mind and the greenness soothe the soul. The following plants can all be grown inside or out and have additional therapeutic qualities for Zen living. Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis miller) is known for its skin healing benefits but it also purifies the air of carcinogens and emits oxygen at night. Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) when grown near pathways and seating areas will enable you to brush past and release the aromatics that help bring clarity to your mind and feel less frustrated. Been found to lower frustration and boost alertness. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is almost famous for its sleep inducing and relaxation characteristics when used in teas. Cutting the flowers and drying to use in potpourris will bring the same benefits into your home. Basil (Ocimum basilicum) contains within it a compound known as ‘linalool’ which has been found to reduce the activity of certain genes that are triggered during stressful situations. The Snake Plant (Dracaena trifasciata) is one of the best plants for purification of the air, according to NASA and while they purify the air during the day, they emit oxygen at

night. Lavender (Lavandula spp.) is a must in any garden as the flowers and the leaves contain the powerful aromatics. By inhaling the scent of lavender, it has been shown to especially decreased feelings of depression and confusion. Jasmine (Jasminum officinale) fragrance is a super soother and anxiety reliever for many. A study published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry reported that the smell of Jasmine can be a soothing as Valium. Catmint (Nepeta cataria) is not just for cats! It not only sooths the nerves of our feline friends but of humans as well. PLANT HAPPENINGS Again, nothing to report due to restrictions but please don’t forget to drop those online happenings to me and any news! Let’s look at a newish Gardening Book. ‘Yates Month by Month’, the complete guide of what to do in your garden throughout the year by Judy Horton. I highly recommend this book especially for beginner gardeners as it sets out clearly the tasks, plantings, and the expectations of each month in Australian gardens. THIS WEEK YOU COULD PLANT You could plant artichokes, asparagus crowns, beetroot, broad beans, cabbage, carrot, English spinach, lettuce, mustard, late season onions, parsnip, peas, potatoes, radish, rhubarb crowns, salsify, silverbeet, alyssum, California poppy, carnation, cosmos, dahlia, dianthus, everlasting daisies, gerbera, marigold, petunia, salvia, zinnia, kangaroo paw. Cheralyn Darcey is a gardening author, community garden coordinator and along with Pete Little, hosts ‘At Home with The Gardening Gang’ 8 10am every Saturday on CoastFM963 Send your gardening questions, events and news to: gardeningcentralcoast@gmail.com

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BUSINESS & PROPERTY PAGE 25 30 JULY 2021

Business & Property New package offers relief for renters and landlords Renters and landlords on the Central Coast impacted by COVID-19 are receiving some relief from a new support package announced by the NSW Government to help them through the current lockdown. If you are a residential tenant who has lost 25 per cent or more of your income due to the lockdown, you should negotiate a reduced rent with the landlord. An eviction moratorium until September 30 also protects tenants from being terminated due to rent arrears where the tenant’s income has reduced by more than 25 per cent. Landlords can only apply for eviction if they show that they’ve gone through the rent negotiation process with NSW Fair Trading in good faith, and that their eviction request is fair and reasonable. Residential landlords who reduce the rent for a tenant impacted by the lockdown, can apply for a grant of up to $1,500 or a reduction in land tax. The land tax relief will be equal to the value of rent reductions provided by landlords to financially distressed tenants, up to 100 percent of the 2021 land tax

year liability. Minister for Better Regulation, Kevin Anderson, said the new package would, for the first time, provide a rental subsidy grant of up to $1,500 for landlords who offer rent reductions to COVID-19 impacted tenants. “These measures hinge on landlords and tenants working together through this challenging period and we encourage both parties to enter negotiations in good faith,” he said.

Manager of the Central Coast Tenants Advice and Advocacy Service (CCTAAS), Sidonie Shaw, said the situation for tenants on the Coast was very difficult. “The current vacancy rate is 0.6 percent and issues such as lack of genuine affordable housing and rent bidding are causing huge issues for tenants looking for properties to rent,” she said. “We have seen a marked increase in the rents payable on the Coast and the increase of tenants migrating from

Sydney who can afford to pay higher rents is pushing locals out of the market. “We have stories of tenants receiving rent increases of up to $200 per week. “We also have stories of tenants who have been looking for almost six months and more to find something suitable to rent. “Families are living in tents or sharing homes, putting enormous pressure on community services supporting those who are searching for

affordable accommodation.” Shaw said that there were a number of variables to be considered in assessing whether the NSW Government’s COVID support packages went far enough to be of assistance, such as the rent that the tenant was paying, how long the lockdown would last, and the income of the tenants. “The payment of up to $600 for those that have lost more than 20 hours of work a week will certainly go some way to help with paying the rent, utilities and expenses,” she

said. “This is an improvement on the last financial package as it is a payment direct to landlords if they have accepted a reduced rent from their tenants, rather than a reduction in their land tax. “However, if a tenant is paying $800 per week and has lost income, then the $1,500 is not going to last very long. “It also relies heavily on a good landlord/tenant relationship and the payments are not available to everyone who is renting, such as those on temporary or protection visas.” Shaw said that while the eviction moratorium protected renters who had lost income because of COVID, it didn’t protect tenants from any other form of termination, such as where the property was sold, the end of a fixed term agreement or a No Grounds termination. “The moratorium perhaps should have gone further to protect tenants during the current health crisis,” Shaw said. “Giving tenants a safe and secure home during a pandemic is something that should be high on everyone’s priorities.” Sue Murray

NSW Treasurer announces payroll tax relief measures Business NSW Central Coast has welcomed news of new payroll tax relief measures as cashflow becomes the number one problem for the region’s businesses. “Businesses have told me that they had between three to five weeks of cashflow to get through this latest lockdown,” Regional director, Paula Martin, said. “As we (prepare to enter into our sixth week), the struggle to keep operating with an indefinite date to the end of lockdown will start to impact jobs. “Businesses are struggling to keep up with the pace of change and it’s becoming increasingly evident that existing support measures aren’t sufficient. “Support measures need to be scalable and support capital intensive businesses. “These businesses employ larger levels of staff so any lever that helps business cope

with ongoing operations costs such as equipment, utilities, rates and ATO payments are needed to help them keep their staff levels up. “The best support we can provide business is to allow them to trade as openly and safely as possible. Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said targeted support was being made available through Revenue NSW, with payroll tax deferrals already available for all businesses and a 25 per cent reduction on the 2021 22 payroll tax reconciliation for eligible businesses. “Many businesses across the state are doing it tough right now with less foot traffic resulting in a decline of sales and transactions,” Perrottet said. “These payroll tax measures are part of over $4B in various business grants and assistance to help businesses stay in business and to keep staff in jobs. “We have said right

throughout the pandemic that we would put people, businesses and jobs ahead of the budget, which is why we are rolling out a record business support program.” Finance and Small Business Minister, Damien Tudehope, said the NSW Government was standing by to help businesses wherever possible. “We know the effects of restrictions are being felt right across the state and that’s why we have ensured that all payroll tax customers are able to take advantage of the deferral and repayment options, regardless of size or geographical location,” Tudehope said. “We want to free up cash for businesses at a time when businesses are doing it tough, by waiving or deferring their tax.” All NSW businesses which have a payroll tax liability have the option of deferring lodgement and payment of their 2020/21 annual reconciliation until October 7,

2021. Customers required to lodge monthly returns will also have the option of deferring their returns due in August and September until October 7. In addition, all payroll tax customers who defer their payments are eligible for an interest free payment plan of up to 12 months. Businesses with wages between $1.2M and $10M which have experienced a 30 per cent decline in turnover will get a 25 per cent reduction of their 2021/22 payroll tax. Meanwhile businesses are reminded of the following relief measures: The 2021 COVID-19 Business Grant is available to eligible NSW businesses that have a turnover between $75,000 and $50M (inclusive), and a total Australian wages bill of $10M or less. They can claim grants between $7,500 and $15,000 to cover the first three weeks of restrictions.

The JobSaver scheme, to be delivered together with the Federal Government, will provide cash flow support to help eligible businesses retain staff. This will be up to 40 per cent of weekly payroll with a payment of between $1,500 and $100,000 (up from $10,000) per week, provided staffing levels are maintained at the level as of July 13. Eligible non-employing businesses will receive $1,000 per week. JobSaver payments are now available to businesses with an annual turnover of between $75,000 and $250M, up from $50M, which have experienced a revenue decline of 30 per cent or more. The Micro Business COVID-19 Support Grant is now available for eligible businesses with a turnover of more than $30,000 and less than $75,000 which experience a decline in turnover of 30 per cent or more. Eligible businesses will

receive $1,500, tax-free, per fortnight of restrictions. Land tax relief is available equal to the value of rent reductions provided by commercial, retail and residential landlords to financially distressed tenants, up to 100 per cent of the 2021 land tax year liability. Residential landlords who decrease rent for impacted tenants can apply for a grant of up to $1,500 or land tax relief depending on their circumstances. The introduction of legislative amendments will ensure a short-term eviction moratorium for rental arrears where a residential tenant suffers loss of income of 25 per cent due to COVID-19 and meets a range of criteria. There will be no recovery of security bonds, or lockouts or evictions of impacted retail and commercial tenants prior to mediation. Terry Collins

PAGE 26 30 JULY 2021

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Construction on the Coast to resume July 31 Construction activity will resume on the Central Coast on July 31 with new COVID protocols to be introduced to keep workers and worksites safe. But the region’s construction workers will still be impacted by a continuing ban in eight Local Government Areas Business areas in Greater Sydney. Deputy Premier John Barilaro outlined a roadmap forward on July 28 following an announcement the lockdown in Greater Sydney will extend until August 28. Barilaro said construction would resume in much of Greater Sydney but would remain on pause in eight LGAs of concern – Fairfield, Blacktown, Cumberland, Campbelltown, CanterburyBankstown, Liverpool, Parramatta and Georges River Local Government Areas. He said resumed construction works would incorporate safety measures such as controls on movements between sites, reduced contact between workers within sites, improved tracing capability and a focus

Construction works will resume on the Coast on July 31

on encouraging workers to get vaccinated. “Works in occupied premises including residential homes can also resume from July 31 where there is zero contact between workers and residents,” he said. “There will be a limit of up to two workers for indoor services and five workers for outdoor

services, and works will only be possible where it is feasible for residents to vacate the area. “If contactless arrangements are not possible, work cannot go ahead.” Barilaro said businesses in the LGAs of concern which are part of the construction supply chain will be permitted to operate, with construction

supply chain workers added to the authorised workers list and allowed to leave their local area for work, subject to meeting COVID-19 surveillance testing requirements. This includes workers engaged in manufacturing of construction materials, plant and components. “I can also announce that as

part of our plan to reopen construction, worksites will be able to operate on Sundays and public holidays for the remainder of the year, up until Christmas, to make up for any time lost,” he said. Business NSW Central Coast said while resumption of construction works would provide “some boost” to the region’s economy, the

continued closure of worksites in the LGAs of concern would continue to impact Coast construction businesses which have projects in those areas. “We know that normally, around 5000 construction workers commute to projects in the Sydney area so these workers will continue to be impacted in the short term,” Regional Director, Paula Martin, said. “However, this development does mean some businesses can get going again locally under strict conditions, giving some certainty to business owners and their employees. “In simple terms, construction work can proceed outdoors under strict COVID safe conditions, while indoor work can proceed so long as the homeowner is not in the premises at the time. “Unfortunately, there’s no reopening when it comes to industries with a high concentration of employees like retail and hospitality, meaning many business owners and their employees will continue to suffer. Terry Collins

RDA announces new Director of Regional Projects, Funding and Research Christine Jarvis is determined to see the Central Coast attract as much funding as possible in her new role as Director of Regional Projects, Funding and Research for Regional Development Australia Central Coast (RDACC). RDACC Chair Lawrie McKinna said the newly created role has been designed to support sustainable economic growth and expand future employment opportunities in the region, through the analysis of regional

data, and focus on attracting and delivering funded regional projects. McKinna said the role would provide an additional connection between available funding and the community. “As well as assisting us to attract funding and investment to the Central Coast, Christine will be responsible for making sure everyone on the Coast, including business owners and community members, are aware of and have access to the grants available for different opportunities,” McKinna said.

“In this new role, Christine will provide a vital link between making sure any grant money is available and accessible to the people of the Central Coast.” RDACC CEO and Director Regional Development, John Mouland, said Jarvis’ history and experience in facilitating regional collaboration lends itself perfectly to the requirements of the role. “Christine is the perfect candidate for this position, given her breadth of experience in working with a range of Central Coast stakeholders and

facilitating collaboration at all levels of government,” he said. “Most recently, Christine initiated the Central Coast Economic Taskforce, bringing together government representatives, community and industry leaders, and helping to break down traditional silos to achieve a shared vision for the Central Coast. “She collaborated to launch the Central Coast Bigger Backyard initiative, involving 600 businesses and creating a projected economic impact of $91M, as well as facilitating

our region’s first Virtual Trade Expo, connecting over 80 local businesses to trade during last year’s COVID-19 lockdown. “Christine also played a pivotal role in attracting funding for the Terrigal boardwalk. “Her impressive track record in delivering real solutions to support our local economy and grow regional prosperity make her an invaluable asset for RDACC and the people of the Central Coast.” Jarvis said she sees her piorities as collaborating with all Central Coast stakeholders

to establish employment opportunities and secure funding for enabling infrastructure to support the community as the community grows. “As the community grows it would be great to see more experiences for the locals and its visitors with more career pathways available to our young ones,” she said. Source: Media release, Jul 25 Regional Development Australia Central Coast

PAGE 28 30 JULY 2021

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Julia NEWBOULD Editor-at-large • Money magazine It has been anything but business as usual in the world of taxation. “The ATO has been very lenient throughout 2020, offering payment arrangements, deferrals of lodgements, remission of penalties and general interest charges, and generally trying to accommodate the difficult financial position many taxpayers found themselves in as a result of the lockdowns and impact of international and state border closures,” says Robyn Jacobson, a chartered tax adviser and senior advocate at the Tax Institute. “But as our economic recovery continues, the ATO is now shifting its focus onto debt recovery and collection, and following up outstanding lodgements, moving back to a ‘business as usual’ stance.” Given that state of play, here are some expert tips to help you navigate your tax affairs.

Do you research to choose the right method if claiming work from home. You can deduct costs of working from home using either the ATO’s 80¢ per hour rate, its 52¢ per hour rate or actual costs. “The 80¢ per hour rate might sound like the most generous but it covers all expenses that you might incur,” says tax expert Mark Chapman. You simply claim 80¢ for each hour you work from home, and this covers all your expenses, such as phone, internet, the decline in value of computer equipment and furniture, electricity and gas for heating, cooling and lighting. If your expenses fall outside this time frame, you can apply the fixed-rate method, which is a deduction of 52¢ for each hour you work from home, but this rate excludes the cost of your phone, home internet and depreciation of any computer equipment. These can be

claimed separately. “If you claim those separately, the 52¢ is often the better option,” says Chapman. But this will require a log of hours worked. The third option is the actual costs method. “Actual costs are the best option, but using that method means you have to retain proof of incurring expenditure like gas and electricity, cleaning costs, phone and internet, computer consumables, and

the cost of home office equipment,” says Chapman. Of course, it’s not a free-forall to claim regular household expenses. “You’ll not only need to keep a log of the hours you work from home, but also calculate what percentage of these expenses are work-related,” says Robyn Jacobson. “You can’t claim 100% of your internet bill if only 60% of your internet use is for work.” You can prepay some

expenses. Peter Bembrick, a tax partner at HLB Mann Judd, suggests prepaying expenses such as your income protection premiums (if held outside your super), management charges on investments and professional membership fees. “You can usually prepay deductible expenses for up to 12 months, so you can get those in early if you want deductions this year.” Chapman says there’s a reason 70% of Australians use

a tax agent to prepare their tax return – it’s complicated. “Get your tax return wrong and the comeback is on you, either with a lower refund or ATO penalties, and most people will find it far less stressful to simply pass on all their information to a tax agent and leave it to the agent to complete their return, safe in the knowledge that it will be accurate and complete.” M DAVID THORNTON

ASIC review of ethical products under way The corporate regulator has confirmed it is undertaking a review of ESG funds, analysing whether they’re as “green” as they claim to be. ASIC commissioner Cathie Armour says there is growing anxiety about the risks of “greenwashing”, partly driven by a lack of clarity about

labelling or a single, generally accepted way of defining them.. The review aims to determine whether “the practices of funds that offer these products align with their promotion of these products; in other words, whether the financial product or investment strategy is as ‘green’ or ESG-focused as claimed”.

This follows the regulator’s review of climate risk disclosures by large, listed corporates, which found disclosure had improved in recent years but also that some sustainability-related disclosures carried a “marketing” feel, Armour said. “Misrepresentation of such products poses a threat to a fair and efficient financial

system. Essentially, this misrepresentation distorts relevant information that a current or prospective investor might require in order to make informed investment decisions driven by ESG considerations.. “Addressing this threat will improve governance and accountability in the market.” In discussing the review,

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Tranche 1 and 2 asset sales progress

As the Tranche 3 revised land sale list went to the July 27 Central Coast Council meeting for ratification, work on selling Tranche 1 and Tranche 2 land continues. The Council has exchanged and settled on contracts within Tranche 1 and 2 to the value of about $23.9M.

One property in Tranche 1 has been sold but no individual site prices have yet been made public. Agents CBRE are managing the sale of 49-75 Mann St and 126 Georgiana Terrace, Gosford which includes the Gosford Council chambers. Real estate agents Knight Frank have sold 1A Lucca Rd, Wyong and are the agents for

four lots at Spring Creek Business Park, Doyalson. Real estate agents Savills are managing the sale of Warner Industrial Park, located at 671, 689, 701, 725, 749, 781, 791, and 811 Hue Hue Rd and 225 Sparks Rd, Jilliby. Council said discussions are being held with Government agencies which may purchase sites of strategic interest

directly from Council but no details have been given. Seven properties in Tranche 2 have been sold or are awaiting settlement and one property, 7 Dalnott Rd, Gorokan, has been withdrawn from sale but Council has given no reason why. The seven properties are: 6A Brennon Rd, Gorokan; 18W Dunvegan St, Mannering Park;

6 Wyndora Ave, San Remo; 44 Springall Ave, Wyongah; 2 Budgewoi Rd, Noraville; 165 Main Rd, Toukley; and 9 Thompson St, Long Jetty. Another eight sites require easements and other restrictions placed on title prior to being put on market for sale and these works are underway. These properties are: 32 Murrumbong Rd, Summerland

Point; 43A Ulana Ave, Halekulani; 9A Greenwood Ave, Berkeley Vale; 5 Sunnyhills Tce, Berkeley Vale; 2W Stornaway Cr, Berkeley Vale; 24 Kauri Court, Ourimbah; 13A Bellwood Cl, Tuggerah; and 10A Cynthia St, Bateau Bay. Merilyn Vale

Administrator pushes ahead with bid to make rate rise permanent Central Coast Council Administrator, Rik Hart, is pushing ahead with his campaign to convince the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) to make the 13 per cent rate increase over the 2 per cent peg permanent. IPART determined that Central Coast Council could have a

Special Rate Variation (SRV) of 15 per cent, which is 13 per cent over the current statewide rate peg, for the next three years. However, the Council has based its long-term financial modelling on that 13 per cent variation staying in the rate base permanently. Hart has subsequently argued

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that not retaining the SRV for the long-term would result in Central Coast Council’s financial situation being unsustainable. In June he announced his intention to meet with the head of IPART in an effort to convince her of the need to make the rate rise permanent. During the July 27 Council

meeting, Hart announced that he and CEO, David Farmer, had met with the Chair of IPART, Carmel Donnelly, and her CEO to discuss the IPART determination. Hart said he believed Donnelly had listened to the argument he put forward but there were “no guarantees”. “We were able to get across

our points of view … they did listen to us and what we want to do,” he said. He reiterated Council’s intention to apply for an adjustment to water and sewer rates and another SRV. “We will need to make sure they are very, very good applications because, quite clearly, the Council did not put

in a good application [the last time it applied for the water and sewer adjustment],” he said. Hart has also continued to hold virtual meetings with local MPs to discuss their key concerns and with key community stakeholder groups. Jackie Pearson

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE PAGE 31 30 JULY 2021

ARAFMI opens new respite accommodation

Central Coast Association of Relatives and Friends of the Mentally Ill (ARAFMI) hosted a successful open day on June 9 to celebrate the official opening of new respite accommodation and to acknowledge 45 years of promoting and supporting mental health of families in the region. More than 130 people joined the celebrations at Lerida House, Narara. Guests learnt about existing and new carer and mental health support programs, including the new program,

THE TRUST—Beyond the Stigma, designed by participants, for participants. The program began last year and aims to promote social inclusion, mental health recovery, wellness, and selfempowerment for people impacted by trauma and mental health. There were demonstrations of program activities such as ceramics, creative writing and macramé with guests having the chance to try their hand. The new respite accommodation unit was officially opened by Central Coast ARAFMI President, Anne

Steadman, and CEO, Rhonda Wilson. The newly expanded respite accommodation was built specifically to support carers and families impacted by mental health. As well as offering a homely respite experience, guests have access to on-site mental health knowledge and support, as the site shares the location of Central Coast ARAFMI Carer and Family Support Program and THE TRUST—Beyond the Stigma. The new building was made possible by the support of the NSW Government and Think

Projects. Speeches on the day recognised the critical role of families in caring for loved ones impacted by mental health issues, with fundraisers, volunteers and participants, sharing their stories. Central Coast ARAFMI and THE TRUST Program Coordinator, Fiona Simpson, have worked alongside the community to build the unique program. “Everyone matters and has a voice; we are continually listening to the needs and strengths of our participants,” Simpson said.

“We get to know people for who they are and where they want to be in the world and offer options at their own pace. “THE TRUST has developed a strong arts, wellness, training and educational program that focuses on mentoring. “We support and train participants interested in how to write a program and lead an activity. “We have had 94 people through this program so far and continue to grow through our networks.” Also on show on the day were documents from a new

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historical book written in partnership with Central Coast Council documenting the social history of Lerida House. Guests enjoyed Devonshire tea and a free banquet provided by volunteers and participants of THE TRUST and were entertained by house band, The Yakkallas. Details on ARAFMI are available at www.ccarafmi. org.au. Source: Media release, Jul 21 Central Coast ARAFMI

PAGE 32 HEALTH & LIFETSYLE 30 JULY 2021

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Re-write the story: trying new things is overwhelming

DANIELLE ABELL

GEORGIA LIENEMANN This is the second part in our six-week series on the counterproductive stories we tell ourselves in the kitchen – those hurdles that mess with our mojo and prevent us from enjoying the process of cooking. This week we’re hearing from Danielle Abell from Lick The Plates and examining the belief that experimenting with or trying new things in the kitchen is ‘too hard’. Sometimes our kitchen routine brings comfort. You’re in the flow and you don’t need to think. You buy the same things every time you shop and cook the same dishes. It’s familiar and easy. And there are times when that same kitchen routine feels boring, monotonous and claustrophobic. You want a change, but you don’t know where to start. When you’re feeling the monotony, but also feel stuck, chances are you’re telling yourself a version of the story that “trying new things is overwhelming”. However, while you may feel overwhelmed trying new things, it doesn’t truly mean that it is overwhelming. One step at a time When you’re feeling the overwhelm, know that even the most competent home

3. If you’re dealing with fussy eaters, start slow

cooks feel it at times! Generally, overwhelm kicks in when we get ahead of ourselves and spend more time stressing than actually doing anything. For example, you want to cook something new for dinner tonight, it’s 4:30pm and have no idea where to start. The next thing you know, it’s 6:00pm, you’ve gone down the Google vortex with 27 recipe windows open on your phone and not so much as an onion has been chopped. Cue meltdown. Cooking new dishes takes planning When you break it down, there are a surprising number of steps involved in cooking something new, so go easy on yourself:

1. Feel inspired to try something new 2. Decide what to cook 3. Buy the ingredients 4. Put aside time to follow the recipe and make the thing 5. Eat it (and persuade your family to try this new thing) 6. Use up or store the remainders of those new ingredients you bought. No wonder you feel overwhelmed! And what if you do overcome all of this and then the dish is a flop? All that wasted energy! Is the overwhelm actually a fear of failure? Maybe the overwhelm isn’t actually about the planning and cooking, but more about

the fear of the final dish. Do you worry that it will be a flop and can’t face all that wasted time and energy? That’s a completely reasonable fear! And let me tell you… it may be a flop. And that’s when your powers of creative thinking will kick in. Go back to last week’s article online on how to save a dish that didn’t turn out. There are some great tips in there. But the main thing is.. there are no failures! Just opportunities to reinvent. Tired of being stuck in a rut? Try this. 1. Avoid the online abyss and be inspired by real people instead Google can overwhelming

totally and

bottomless. Instead, find an online community, or even just a few friends, and share your kitchen successes (and failures)! Talk about what you’re cooking and share recipes and ideas. It is so much more fun cooking together, even if you are each doing it in your own kitchens. All you need is one idea to implement. 2. Set a realistic goal of cooking something new every fortnight If you like the structure of a challenge, set yourself one! But be realistic. One new dish a week may be too much, but once a fortnight is manageable. Or maybe one new dish a month sits better with you. Whatever it is, commit to it and plan ahead.

A recipe for Garlic Gomasio (Georgia calls these ‘sprinkles’ in her kitchen) Adults and children alike love condiments, especially when it can be sprinkled. We like to use them to add a creative spin to a boring meal. Here is a recipe, which is meant as a springboard, not to limit you. Omit the garlic if you’d prefer and add in any other spices you’d like. Or keep it to just toasted sesame seeds and salt. Up to you!

Ingredients - 1 cup sesame seeds - 2 teaspoons good quality salt (Celtic Sea Salt or Himalayan Salt) - 1 teaspoon garlic powder Method - Heat a dry pan over medium heat. When pan is hot, add sesame seeds and move

around for a few minutes until slightly coloured. Don’t walk away from this step. - Move sesame seeds to a plate and leave to cool. - Once cool, add to pestle and mortar along with salt and garlic powder. Grind them together until slightly broken down. - Store in a glass jar and keep in the fridge. - Sprinkle overANYTHING:rice,sandwiches, steamed vegetables, salads or eggs.

There’s nothing more discouraging than putting your energy into creating something new, only to have your children say, ‘yuck’. So, mitigate that risk. Try cooking new and interesting side dishes and keep the main part of the meal familiar. If your kids don’t want to try the new thing, don’t force them and enjoy it yourself instead. 4. Instead of a new dish, try a new ingredient Buying a whole list of new ingredients to make a complicated dish can be overwhelming, so instead try just buying one new ingredient a week and add it to things you’re already cooking. This is great practice in learning to use up what you have - a priceless skill in the kitchen. Furthermore, eating a diversity of foods is one of the best things we can do for our gut health. Danielle is an ex-picky eater turned food lover and founder of Lick the Plates. She is passionate about inspiring women to cook from scratch the old-fashioned way, but with modern equipment and techniques. She teaches cooking both face to face and virtually and sells Thermomixes, as the best kitchen tool to make it all possible. Find her at www. licktheplates.com and on most socials.

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE PAGE 33 30 JULY 2021

Sarah gets behind DonateLife Week Sarah Joyce of St Huberts Island is throwing her support behind DonateLife Week (July 25- August 1), aimed at reminding the community of the importance of organ donors, following her own life-saving kidney transplant. In 2016, Joyce contracted meningococcal and within 12 hours had lost her kidney function. “For the following four years

I spent 15-20 hours every week in hospital receiving dialysis,” she said. “The feeling of being dependent on a dialysis machine to live is extremely hard, both mentally and physically. “I had a kidney transplant one year ago and within a few days I had near perfect kidney function again. “I call my kidney my little ripper – although it isn’t little, it is bigger than both my native

kidneys put together. “I am very lucky and so incredibly grateful to my donor’s family. “I have many ongoing health issues as a result of contracting meningococcal and I don’t think I would have been able to physically or mentally get through them these past 12 months without the kidney transplant.” Central Coast Local Health District (CCLHD) says there are around 13 million Australians

GPs, pharmacies join staged rollout of vaccine Federal Member for Robertson, Lucy Wicks, says the Pfizer vaccine is about to become more accessible for Central Coast residents with an additional 10 GP clinics now able to administer the vaccine. Wicks said this brings the total number of GPs administering Pfizer across the Central Coast to 12. “From this week, Australia’s Pfizer supply increases to approximately one million doses per week with new doses now in the country, and

we expect that to benefit the Central Coast,” Wicks said on July 21. “This is a huge milestone in the roll-out of the Pfizer vaccine when compared to an average of 300,000 to 350,000 doses per week in May and June. “I know many in our community are eager to get vaccinated and these additional GPs should help to get more Coasties vaccinated sooner. “I have also been advised that in response to the current outbreak in NSW, over 300 additional community pharmacies will commence onboarding across the broader

Greater Sydney, Central Coast and Wollongong regions over the coming weeks. “The Government’s staged approach will continue to engage other community pharmacies across NSW considering the need to address outbreaks and ensure a geographic spread of the vaccination roll-out. “Across Australia, more than 10 million vaccine doses have now been administered. Source: Media release, Jul 21 Member for Robertson, Lucy Wicks

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aged 16 and over who are eligible to register as an organ and tissue donor. CCLHD Donation Specialist Coordinator, Yoni HopeHodgetts, said there are currently around 1,800 Australians on the organ transplant waiting list, and a further 12,000 people on dialysis. “Unfortunately, COVID-19 has had a direct impact on organ and tissue donation,” HopeHodgetts said. “In 2020 there was a 12 per cent decrease in people receiving a transplant, a 16 per cent decrease in donors and a 16 per cent decrease in Australians registering as donors, in comparison to 2019. “This means it’s never been more important to register as an organ and tissue donor and to encourage others to join you. “Once you register it is important to let your family know of your decision. “Families play a crucial role in the donation process because they are asked to confirm whether their loved one wanted to be a donor. “We know that in 90 per cent

Sarah Joyce

of cases, families agree to donation when their family member is a registered donor. Register to be a donor on the Australian Organ Donor

PAGE 34 30 JULY 2021

EDUCATION & SCIENCE

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HSC exams deferred one week As the region’s Year 12 students anxiously await news on when face to face learning will resume at Central Coast schools, news of changes to the HSC timetable has been gratefully received. The NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) COVID-19 Response Committee announced on July 23 that written HSC exams have been pushed back a week and will now begin on October 19 with results to come out on December 17. For HSC students, who have been working from home since Term 3 began on July 12, the extra week for preparation will be welcome. Zak McGowan, 18, of Kincumber, said the move would give him a little more time to study in what has been “not the most normal of years”. The Kincumber high School

student said studying from home since the beginning of term had presented challenges. “On one hand, it has given me a lot more time to study with only a couple of weeks to go until the trials,” he said. “But it can be hard to function at home – there are plenty of things that can distract easily. “I find it’s hard to maintain efficiency when you’re in your comfort zone.” McGowan said he felt “a little bit nervous but relatively prepared” for the exams and was hoping for a return to face to face learning soon. “It will be worrisome to me if we have to do more time studying from home,” he said. “It is also hard to maintain social balance.” While keeping in touch with schoolwork regularly through internet channels, McGowan said catching up with friends was more difficult.

Zac McGowan

“I don’t have a lot of social media so am feeling a bit socially isolated,” he said. “I understand sometimes freedoms need to be restricted but it’s hard when you’re constantly isolated from friends.” Other HSC changes

announced by NESA include extending the hand-in date for all major projects by two weeks (Industrial Technology by four weeks) and rescheduling Drama performance exams to run from September 6-17. Music performance exams are to continue as scheduled,

running from August 30-September 10. NESA Chair, Professor Peter Shergold, said students could still receive their results, ATAR and university offers this year despite written exams being delayed by a week. “We know students want certainty about their exams; our priority is to limit disruption to HSC students,” he said. “Our aim is to give students as much clarity as possible so they can focus on their studies, their goals and their personal wellbeing. “We will outline a special illness and misadventure process and any other contingency arrangements needed to ensure equity and fairness for all students.” CEO Paul Martin said the priority for NESA and the school sectors is providing considered advice to students that aligns with the health advice and is

fair to the whole cohort. “The changes to the exam timetables mean all students have some additional time to prepare for exams or complete their project,” he said. “We learnt a lot about our processes in the HSC last year and I am confident that we can apply those lessons this year.” Oral language exams have already been rescheduled to start on August 14. COVID safe exam practices will be employed, including minimising school groups mixing, mandatory masks for everyone except the student during the exam, and perspex screens in place at the oral language exams. “Markers, many of whom are teachers, have an enormous undertaking ahead of them,” Martin said. Terry Collins

Gosford TAFE gets a lift Gosford TAFE is set to receive $175,499 as part of a $13.5M NSW Government investment in replacing lifts at TAFE campuses around the state. Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education, Geoff Lee, said the largest lift replacement program ever undertaken in Australia would see 60 lifts replaced across 29 campuses to improve accessibility and

provide greater convenience for students. “This unprecedented investment in next-generation elevators demonstrates the NSW Government’s commitment to meeting the needs of students and employees, including those with a disability, by providing new, modern facilities,” Lee said. “As part of the groundbreaking program, more than a

quarter of all TAFE NSW lifts will be replaced with premium DX Connected Elevators. “This will help future-proof the network of campuses, increase energy-efficiency, and provide ease of access to classrooms and buildings for students and staff for years to come. “Around one in 10 TAFE NSW students identify as having a disability, of which around 7 per cent identify a physical

disability, so these upgrades will have a positive, tangible impact for thousands of students.” Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services, Alister Henskens, said the program was an example of the Government’s commitment to create more inclusive and accessible communities. “By making our TAFE campuses accessible this

program will ensure equal access to opportunity for people with a disability by allowing them to undertake training or study,” Henskens said. “This is a great example of a Disability Inclusion Action Plan creating more inclusive and accessible communities.” KONE Australia Managing Director, Jerome Audais, said modernising elevators can result in energy savings of up

to 70 per cent. “Along with the host of other benefits of a digitally connected lift, the DX will transform the efficiency, safety and sustainability of TAFE buildings,” he said. The Lift Renewal Program will commence in September. Source: Media release, Jul 23 TAFE NSW

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Dog days As the region’s students continued with on line learning last week due to COVID-19 lockdown restrictions, Central Coast Grammar School decided to lighten the mood a little by inviting students to submit pictures of learning from home with their pets for a special Facebook campaign. “Our pets are so special to us - they provide us with a friend to play with, a companion to go out for a walk, they give us

EDUCATION & SCIENCE

PAGE 35 30 JULY 2021

comfort and a good snuggle too,” a school spokesperson said. “(We got pictures of) pets in roll call, pets helping with homework; everything from budgies and cows to lizards and dogs.” The album, available on the school’s Facebook page, is sure to raise a smile. CCN presents just a few of the images provided. Source: Media release, Jul 23 Central Coast Grammar School

CCPC launch Aboriginal scholarship program Coast & Country Primary Care (CCPC), based at Erina, has launched its inaugural Aboriginal Scholarship Program, which aims to improve diversity of the local community services workforce.

CCPC Board Chair, Duncan Bennet, said he was “proud to lead an organisation that creates opportunities to give back to the community”. The scholarship program provides financial assistance for textbooks and other learning resources for Aboriginal people undertaking studies in community services related fields, and a commitment to

5@5 CCPC Executive Manager, People and Culture, Susan Blanch, and Reconciliation Action Plan Committee Chair, Joel Smeaton

prioritising them for their student placements. CCPC CEO, Kathy Beverley said the program will run for three years, with eight scholarships to be awarded each year. “Our Reconciliation Action Plan Committee is leading the implementation of the program, and we are proud to deliver meaningful outcomes of our Reconciliation Action Plan,” Beverley said. “A Reconciliation Action Plan is a formal commitment to work towards reconciliation, endorsed by Reconciliation Australia. “It demonstrates an ongoing commitment to the importance

that culture and community have to improving the health and wellbeing and raises awareness of the challenges faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people both past and present. “Students interested in applying for a scholarship are asked to submit a resume, proof of enrolment and a brief cover letter explaining why they have chosen their area of study.” More details can be found at https://ccpc.com.au/ scholarship/. Source: Media release, Jul 29 Coast & Country Primary Care

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“Council is often blamed for dog attacks, and there is an unrealistic expectation for Council to prevent all dog attacks that occur on the Central Coast,” the committee said. “Recent data generated from Council’s CX system showed the majority of dog attacks occur in neighbourhoods, and only a small number of dog attacks occur in public places where rangers patrol.” The committee, the Companion Animals Working Group, said there was a need to connect with key groups in the region including the Police and RSPCA on a regular basis to discuss and tackle key issues. Council is developing two

separate Responsible Pet Ownership Policies for dogs and cats. The Responsible Dog Ownership Policy will be high level and set clear standards and expectations, and will be used to support decision making, according to the latest minutes of the Working Group. The minutes were tabled at the July 27 Council meeting. “After the Policy has been adopted, a supporting Strategy will be developed that will outline processes and procedures associated with responsible dog ownership,” the working group said. “Council will also adopt a communication campaign that will run alongside the Policy. “It will also outline the responsibility of the individual dog owners. “Responsible dog ownership means more than simply loving

your dog – (it) is a serious commitment for the lifetime of the animal.” The working group undertook a high-level review of the Policy structure and was satisfied that the draft included all critical topic areas. The group agreed that there should be a dedicated section on backyard breeding. Council’s community safety team is currently finalising the policy. It is expected to be tabled at a Council meeting in the next eight weeks. The proposed policy will then go out on public exhibition for public opinion and changes made if required. The Strategy will follow if the Policy is adopted by Council.

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$33,000 boost for Central Coast Community College Central Coast Community College, which provides training for disadvantaged students from all over the region, has received a $33,000 boost through the latest round of a NSW Government fund aimed at upgrading crucial infrastructure and training equipment. The college, based at Ourimbah, was one of 30 not for profit community education providers statewide to benefit from the latest funding round in the ACE Infrastructure Funding Program. Central Coast Community College CEO, Joanne Martin, said the money would build on $125,000 which the college received last year from the funding program. “This money is specifically for infrastructure and training

equipment under the ACE program,” Martin said. “The college provides skills sets, not full qualifications, giving disadvantaged students a chance to re-engage with learning and help set them on a pathway for further learning or career options. “Last year we used the money to establish a training café at our Ourimbah campus, where students can learn barista skills. “We bought industry standard coffee making machines and they get the same experience in our café as they would in the workplace. “We also established a creche for single parents. “Some of our students couldn’t get to training because of commitments with their children – this way the children attend the creche while the parent is undergoing training.

“We also established a trade training centre; a room where we can deliver an early introduction to some of the engineering, fabrication and electro technology trades to give students a taste for what those trades might look like. “We can then help them into an apprenticeship.” Martin said the funds also allowed for upgrades of IT equipment. “With this year’s funding we intend to replicate that training facility at our small business incubator in Gateshead,” she said. “This funding is invaluable (in helping) us to provide the right sort of training here on the Coast.” Tuggerah Lakes Community College will also receive funding under the latest round. Minister for Skills and Tertiary

Education, Geoff Lee, said the funding will see students benefit from upgraded resources and industry standard training equipment. “ACE colleges support the delivery of training to disadvantaged students who face barriers engaging in mainstream vocational education,” Lee said. “The funding will allow (the) colleges to expand their online delivery by providing IT equipment, laptops and software as well as upgrading industry‐specific plant and equipment for specialist vocational training.” Lee said the grants had come at an important time and will help community colleges advance their virtual teaching capabilities thanks to the new IT equipment. Students serving coffee in the training café at Central Coast Community College

Terry Collins

Federal Department of Health answers our COVID questions … sort of Confusion about the vaccine rollout prompted CCN to send a list of questions to the top – the Commonwealth Department of Health – the body ultimately responsible for the vaccine rollout across the nation. The questions were sent to Health on Friday, July 2 and they answered, apologising for the delay, on July 16. Here’s how they answered our questions. Q: How many doses (first and second) of AZ and Pfizer COVID vaccine have been administered to residents of the NSW Central Coast up to Friday, 2 July 2021? A: For all available vaccination data, please view the weekly COVID-19 vaccine rollout report on the Department of Health website: https://www. health.gov.au/initiatives-andprograms/covid-19-vaccines/ australias-covid-19-vaccinerollout. The website reports over 11 million vaccine doses have been administered nationally at 6.30am on Wednesday, July 28 but does not give local data. Q: Can the department confirm that all Central Coast

aged care residents who wish to have received a COVID vaccine have been vaccinated? What percentage of aged care staff on the Central Coast have been partially or fully vaccinated to date? When will 100% vaccination be achieved if not already? A: All 171 residential aged care facilities in the Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network region under the Commonwealth’s inreach program have received first and second dose COVID-19 vaccination clinics. Q: What percentage of health workers on the Central Coast have been partially or fully vaccinated to date? When will 100% vaccination be achieved if not already? A: In NSW as of 9 July 2021, 881 of 937 residential aged care facilities (88 per cent) have reported on the COVID-19 vaccination status of their workforce. Of 79,833 staff reported by providers to date, 36 per cent (28,475) have received a first dose and 20 per cent (16,107) have received all required doses. Information on the number of healthcare workers that have been vaccinated are a matter

FORT DENISON

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

1.50 30 0013 0645 0.52 31 FRI

FRI

1304 1.40 1859 0.72 0102 0.49 0652 1.24 1221 0.59 1856 1.72

for the NSW Government. Q: Can Health confirm that the Eligibility Checker is not the only entry point for people wishing to be vaccinated? For instance, there appear to be state hospitals with their own systems for registering for Pfizer vaccine. What are the most efficient pathways for people seeking AZ? Pfizer? How does Health intend to better inform the public of pathways to vaccination in the weeks ahead? A: The Australian Government’s COVID-19 Vaccination Information and Location Service (including the Eligibility Checker and Vaccine Clinic Finder) can be used by everyone to check if they can get a COVID-19 vaccination and, if so, find the right clinic to make a booking. If people need help to find a clinic, they can call the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080. There are currently over 6,000 vaccination providers featured on the Vaccine Clinic Finder, including Commonwealth and State and Territory vaccination clinics, participating general practices, pharmacies, Sonic hubs and Aboriginal Community

Controlled Health Services. This includes clinics that are administering AstraZeneca, Pfizer or both types of vaccines and continues to be updated as more vaccination providers start delivering the Pfizer vaccine across Australia. As more vaccine providers come on board, they are added to the Vaccine Clinic Finder. All approved COVID-19 vaccination clinics must be listed on the Vaccine Clinic Finder to ensure a pathway by which everyone can check if they are eligible and find a clinic right for them. The Vaccination Information and Location Service allows each clinic to manage their own appointments and booking arrangements to suit their operations and local community needs, which may include through an online booking platform, taking bookings over the phone, inviting people to walk-in, or multiple ways to access vaccination. In addition, vaccine providers are able to provide additional digital and non-digital entry points for people to book a vaccination, such as through community inreach and email notifications to existing patients.

TIDE CHART

Q: Can Health confirm how many GPs on the NSW Central Coast currently have available supplies of AZ? Pfizer? It is our understanding that expressions of interest were called for Central Coast GPs to administer Pfizer. Can Health please confirm how many GPs will be coming online to deliver Pfizer, confirm their suburb locations and approximate timeline? A: In the Central Coast region there is a total of 77 participating primary care sites, of which there are 74 general practices, two Commonwealth Vaccination Clinic and one Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Health Services clinic. There are currently five general practices (which) will commence vaccinating with Pfizer in July, along with and one Commonwealth Vaccination Clinic, Erina Respiratory Clinic, on the Central Coast. The number of practices administering the Pfizer vaccine will progressively increase in coming months as more practices transition and more vaccines become available. All participating vaccination

Source: Media statement, July 16 Commonwealth Department of Health

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

Times and Heights(m) of high and low waters

0058 1.37 0150 1.26 0255 1.18 0406 1.16 0020 0.57 0513 1.17 0723 0.58 0858 0.65 0607 1.20 0807 0.62 0953 0.66 1046 0.66 SAT 1353 1.41 SUN 1446 1.43 MON 1542 1.47 TUE 1637 1.52 WED 1728 1.58 THU 1136 0.63 2001 0.76 2114 0.76 2227 0.72 2330 0.65 1814 1.65 0141 0.42 0216 0.37 0253 0.32 0330 0.29 0407 0.28 0446 0.29 0732 1.29 0811 1.33 0849 1.37 0929 1.41 1011 1.45 1055 1.48 SAT 1303 0.54 SUN 1344 0.50 MON 1425 0.46 TUE 1509 0.45 WED 1554 0.45 THU 1644 0.47 1935 1.79 2015 1.84 2053 1.86 2133 1.85 2215 1.80 2300 1.72

sites are listed on the COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic Finder, which enables people to find vaccination clinics near them and will have rolling updates to show Pfizer points of presence over coming weeks as sites transition. The Vaccine Clinic Finder can be accessed through the COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility Checker. Q: Can Health please provide an estimate of when it believes all Central Coast residents who wish to be vaccinated will have access to their preferred/safest vaccine? A: Making safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines available to all Australians is a key priority of the Australian, and State and Territory governments. Operation COVID Shield has been set-up to oversee Australia’s vaccine rollout. LTGEN Frewen has said publicly that he wants to see anyone who wants a vaccine be offered one by the end of this year.

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

PAGE 38 30 JULY 2021

SPORT

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Olyroos bow out FOOTBALL – OLYMPICS Australia’s Olympic Men’s Football team will have to wait another four years for Olympic glory after losing to Egypt 2 – 0 on Wednesday, July 28. The Olyroos were one of the first outfits to catch the eye of the world at Tokyo2020 with an unexpected upset win on Thursday July 22 against Argentina, one of the tournament’s top gold medal contenders. However, two following

losses against Spain, 1 – 0, on Sunday July 25 and then Egypt have seen the Aussies finish fourth in their group on three points. The result, however, has encouraging signs for Olyroos and Socceroos Head Coach, Graham Arnold, who built his national coaching career after a successful three-year stint with the Mariners from 2010 to 2013. The initial win over Argentina featured strong performances from two former Mariners, Lachlan Wales of Terrigal, who

played the 2017/18 season and Mitchell Duke, who played with the Mariners from 2011 to

2015. The match was one of the

largest upsets at the Games and it allowed the Olyroos to momentarily lead their pool. In the subsequent match against Spain however, a tight contest finally broke in the 81st minute with the European powerhouse’s first goal of the tournament. It was scored 17 minutes after the debut entrance of the Mariner’s centre back and Terrigal local, Kye Rowles and came off a pinpoint header from Spain’s Mikel Oyarzabal. Rowles also played strongly in the final match against

Egypt, a game the Olyroos only needed to draw to ensure their passage into the Quarter Finals. However, it was not to be, with a goal conceded within the final five minutes of both halves. As a result, Egypt will return for the Quarter Finals to play Brazil, with Spain to play Côte d’Ivoire after beating Argentina 2 – 0. Also in the Quarter Finals are Japan versing New Zealand and Korea against Mexico. CCN

Local League star recognised off the field RUGBY LEAGUE Umina local and new signing for the Cronulla Sharks, Nicho Hynes, has been nominated for the 2021 Ken Stephen Medal in recognition of his work off the field throughout his final year of three with the Melbourne Storm. The award is sponsored by ‘Your Local Club’ and involves each NRL club highlighting one of their players who has taken extra efforts to engage with the community throughout the season. Melbourne Storm selected Wiradjuri man, Hynes, for his consistent and high degree of contributions to both club and NRL community programs, in particular, those which involve young indigenous people. During the Indigenous Round, Hynes spoke at multiple schools whilst volunteering with events and movements within both the Mingaletta Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation and the

Salvation Army. Over his three years at the Storm, he has been heavily involved in the NRL School to Work Program that mentors students with personal anecdotes. During the multiple Coronavirus lockdowns of Melbourne, he continued to send personal videos to the local Aboriginal youth with a focus on combating disengagement from school. Hynes has also been recognised for his regular commitments to the Starlight Foundation including visits to sick children at Starlight Rooms in Melbourne hospitals. After almost 10 years with the Umina Bunnies Junior Rugby League, Hynes has recognised the Peninsula-based footy club as his home team. Having also played for the Woy Woy Roosters and Terrigal Sharks, Hynes started his career with Umina in 2002 at the age of five. Last playing for Umina in

Nicho Hynes in his now previous team kit with the Melbourne Storm Photo: Melbourne Storm Facebook page

2011 with the Under 15 As, Hynes then sought out a higher level of play to advance his development as a professional player. Throughout those nine years with the Bunnies, former Club President, Ken Dyer, witnessed many examples of Nicho’s great potential as both a footballer and a man, having also coached and managed his age group multiple times. “You could always tell he was going to be a good player,” Dyer said.

“He had a real football talent from the start I suppose, but he was also a quiet spoken young man who helped out a lot at the club during his time.” “He was always very respectful and had all of those good things you see in young men as they go through being young footballers – and as Nicho moved through to the international level, it was good to see that trait find its way through. “He is a hard worker too: once leaving the Bunnies, he didn’t

just walk in to an NRL contract, he had to move around, play down the grades and work his way up. “He has had a long career and it is great that he has recognised us as his home club. “He won our player of the year awards multiple times, he scored the most tries in minileague a couple of years in a row and ended up with 133 games and about 760 points for the Bunnies. “Our club is a small club, we’re proud of getting the kids on the park, introducing them to footy and getting them through their junior career, but at some point they have to look to better themselves and that’s what Nicho eventually did. “Although he played for a couple of other teams in his international years whilst he was trying to forward his football skills, he always ended up coming back to us and I think he has always held the Bunnies close to his heart. “We have a large Aboriginal

and Islander presence at our club and we promote that quite heavily. “We always rely on the boys as they get older to mentor the younger boys, keep them interested in footy, community, being part of a team and preventing them going down a wrong path. “He had a senior playing role at our club in his later years and the younger players of the club looked up to him, definitely.” Twelve other NRL players have been nominated alongside Hynes, with three finalists to be chosen by an esteemed panel while fans will vote to determine the fourth. In a change from previous years, the player who takes out the fan vote will also earn $3500 for their junior rugby league club. Source: Media release, July 26 Suzan Hirsch and NRL.com. Interview (Haakon Barry), July 28 Ken Dyers, Umina Bunnies

Six gold … and counting From page 40 The final medal on Tuesday came to Jessica Fox in the Canoe Slalom, making her a triple Olympic medallist after receiving a silver at London 2012 and bronze at Rio 2016. Racing last in the Semi Final,

Fox won with a final time of 105.85 only hours ahead of the Grand Final. Again starting last, Fox had to beat a time of 105.50, and although racing in 102.73, four penalty seconds were added to cap her time at 106.73, +1.23

seconds behind winning Ricarda Funk from Germany. Disappointment over Fox’s final run soon turned to joy with two incredible performances by the Australian Rowing team on Day Five, earning gold in both the Women and Men’s

Fours, as well as bronze in the Women and Men’s Quadruple Sculls. This was the most successful daily result for Australian Rowing at the Games in their entire Olympic history, topped off by two newly set Olympic

Records by the Men and Women’s Fours. Titmus’ second gold medal soon followed, with the Men’s 4x200 metre Freestyle Relay team then rounding off the daily medal count with a third place finish.

On Wednesday, notable preliminary and group stage wins also came for Mariafe Artacho del Solar and Clancy Taliqua in the Beach Volleyball against Italy.

Humpback Highway Watch Ronny Ling and his Central Coast Dolphin Project and Central Coast Newspapers have combined to bring you a regular Humpback Highway report in each edition of this newspaper. Although some whales have started heading south, there are still quite a few still going north. Great whale sightings are still happening at Captain Cook Lookout, The Skillion and Foresters Lookout. Dolphins have been enjoying the swell at

Wamberal, Terrigal, North Avoca and Macmasters Beach. Some of our seal visitors have ventured back into Brisbane Water, seeking calm water with plenty of fish. They’ve also been seen around Copacabana and the Haven. If your planning to go whale watching, remember to comply with Health Regulations and police/government directions.

If you are lucky enough to spot a whale, seal or dolphin, please text or call the Project on 0490 401 969 or email centralcoastdolphins@gmail.com

CCN

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SPORT PAGE 39 30 JULY 2021

Montgomery signs German midfielder, Nicolai Müller FOOTBALL Former Bundesliga forward Nicolai Müller was Head Coach Nick Montgomery’s first new signing of the 2021/22 season for the Central Coast Mariners, with Noah Smith from Adelaide United following hot on his heels. Müller joins the club after a stint with Western Sydney Wanderers where he made 37 appearances in two years, scoring seven A-League goals. He primarily plays as an attacking midfielder but can also be deployed as a striker which will be of great advantage to Montgomery in his inaugural A-League season as Head Coach. Before migrating to Australia in 2019, Müller played across Germany in the Bundesliga with clubs such as Eintracht Frankfurt, Mainz 05 and Hamburger SV, where he amassed more than 300 appearances, along with starts in the UEFA Europa League with Eintracht Frankfurt. Ahead of meeting his new team-mates Müller spoke of the anticipation he has for the

Noah Smith is making the move from Adelaine United to the Mariners

upcoming season. “I can’t wait to start training with my new team and meet all the players, coaches and backroom staff,” he said. “I am sure I can help the team with my past playing experience to help re-establish the success of last season.” Montgomery said he welcomed the addition of Müller’s experience to the Mariners squad. “Not only does he bring experience to the squad, he’ll

be a great mentor who will have a positive influence on our young players that we have coming through the ranks,” he said. “After early discussions with Nicolai, I instantly knew he was a player I wanted to bring to the team with the quality he possesses. “I am absolutely delighted that we can bring a player of his calibre on board, and I can’t wait to get Nicolai integrated into the squad, ready for pre-

season.” Mariners Head of Football, Ken Schembri, praised Müller’s professionalism and creativity. “We have been looking for specific players to strengthen our squad, and Nicolai will hopefully provide creativity and experience,” he said. “We believe Nicolai is a true professional and will be a great acquisition.” The 33-year-old will be looking to make an instant impact for the yellow and navy,

hopefully in the Round 32 FFA Cup match against Blacktown City, before the A-League season begins. The Mariners’ second signing, Noah Smith, is making the swap from Adelaide United following on from a highly successful breakthrough A-League season. Smith made his A-League debut against the Mariners in 2020 and became a first-choice starter at the beginning of last season.

The 20-year-old is a skilful left back and received praise from pundits following his performances under the tutelage of Carl Veart, for Adelaide United last season. He joins the Mariners on a one-year deal and is keen to help improve on last season’s form under new boss, Nick Montgomery. “I am really excited about joining the Mariners this year as they have a great culture and identity,” smith said. “I can’t wait to meet the boys and get stuck into preseason. Montgomery said Smith is a young player with a great personality. “I think he was very good prior to injury at Adelaide, and I have no doubt that he will prove a very good signing for us” he said. Head of Football, Ken Schembri, said he believed Smith would blend in well with current squad members and develop into one of the competition’s best left backs. Source: Media releases, Jul 26 and Jul 28 Central Coast Mariners

Kookaburras launch off solid Dawson defence FIELD HOCKEY – OLYMPICS The Kookaburras have made a major statement in the Olympic men’s hockey so far after notching up their fourth group wins in a row, all featuring Berkeley Vale’s Matt Dawson in defence. With the opening hockey match of the Games on Saturday July 24, the world leading team showed their strength with a 5 -3 win over hosts, Japan, before rounding this off with further wins against India on Sunday, Argentina on Tuesday and New Zealand on Wednesday

evening. Japan proved to be a very strong opposition with dynamic forward runners whom Dawson found difficult to shut down in the striking circle. A two goal lead for the Aussies in the first quarter was evened and then overcome by Japan, 3 – 2, before half time. In the second half, the visitors from down under came out with fresh energy and took away the win after two third quarter goals and a final one in the fourth. The very next day, a 7 -1 win over India pushed the Kookaburra’s ahead in the Pool A standings on six points with

Argentina in second place on four. The South American defending champions had the chance to take out the top spot but were ultimately put away by a more experienced side. The early pressure and possession came from the Argentinians, culminating in the opening goal from a penalty corner in the fourth minute for Jose Tolini. The Kookaburra’s responded in kind, with Blake Govers scoring an equaliser late in the first quarter from another penalty corner. Throughout the second quarter, the Aussies were able

to take the lead and extend it by two, with goals coming for Tom Wickam, Lachlan Sharpe and a second for Govers. A fifth came for Jeremy Hayward in the 39th minute to seal the result. Despite the early slip, the Kookaburra line adjusted well to their opposition to cut off attacking circle penetrations and respond with incisive movements forward. Dawson was rock solid in his centre back defensive role, acting as the tailbone from which the tournament favourites advanced. Late the following night, New Zealand posed a difficult

challenge and it was only in the final quarter that the Aussies pulled away in their 4 – 2 win. After conceding early, the Kiwis did well to quickly level out the game at 1 – 1, a score that was maintained until the 50th minute when Tim Brand put away his second of the game. This opened the gates for two more fourth quarter Australian goals for Govers and then Wickam, with another responsive goal from New Zealand to finish off the match. Dawson was a tower of strength for the Australian side, bringing composure and strength to the Kookaburra’s

defence. It has allowed them to now go into their final pool stage match against Spain as the only team in Pool A with a positive goal difference (+13) and remaining undefeated. This game will be played on Friday July 30 at 11:00am aest. Once the pool stage of the Men’s Hockey is completed, the top four teams from each pool will play in quarter finals on Sunday, August 1; then Semi’s on the following Tuesday and the Grand on Thursday, August 5.

Lodge Morning Star

What do you know about us? Lodge Morning Star has been inextricably linked to the Central Coast community since 1922. The Peninsula’s very own lodge will be celebrating its centenary in 2022 and as part of the celebrations we are producing a book detailing the fascinating history of our lodge. We have plenty of masonic information to include, but we really want to highlight the many interesting, funny, heart-warming and sometimes strange stories you may have about our lodge.

02 4344 5133

We also want to hear from organisations and individuals that we have helped or who have partnered with us over the years in our ongoing mission to improve the Central Coast community.

If you have, or know of, any stories, memorabilia or details related to our lodge, please get in touch with us. And if you’re interested in receiving a copy of the finished book, let us know.

email@lodgemorningstar.com

CCN.

PAGE 40 SPORT 30 JULY 2021

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Miles Greenwood clinches victory in national sailing titles SAILING Young sailor Miles Greenwood from Gosford Sailing Club emerged victorious at the Sealink 57th Sabot Nationals held at Townsville Sailing Club during the recent school holidays. The six-day sailing competition is usually held over the new year but was postponed for six months due to the COVID 19 outbreak last year. Miles, 13, went into the

competition as favourite after winning the NSW State Title two years running and coming second at the 56th Sabot Nationals in Vaucluse, Sydney. The young sportsman has been sailing at inter-club level for seven years after watching his sister sail since he was just two years old. Mum Meicha Greenwood said competing in the event involved a 21-hour car ride each way for the family. “We saw many different types of statues including the

Big Banana, the Big Pineapple, the Big Mango and the Golden Guitar,” she said. “It was hard to tell if the nationals were going to be on or not. “The organizers had to squeeze one-week nationals into a two-day national event to enable the 38 sailors in Townsville to compete. “Unfortunately, 19 people could not make it into the nationals, not able to fly because of the extended COVID restrictions in Sydney.

The conditions were very light in the four days of training. Greenwood said, and this made Miles nervous for the nationals. “Day after day (it) started to get windier; this was very good and when nationals started the wind was great but not perfect because it was very shifty”. “On the last day, the weather was good and windy, the type of conditions Miles and the more experienced kids like sailing in. The Lionel Shipway medal is awarded every year and

recognizes sailors who have competed in six sabot nationals and/or sabot week regattas. It acknowledges the efforts of sailors who consistently compete and apply themselves in sabot sailing, irrespective (of) where they finish. “This year was the sixth nationals for Miles and two other competitors. “Miles sailed really well finishing with a total of eight points. “Of the eight national races,

Miles received five first places, two fourths and one third, (making him the winner of) the Sealink 57th Sabot Nationals.” Miles will now decide if he will return to defend his title at the Lake Macquarie City Council 58th Sabot Nationals in December to be held at Teralba Amateur Sailing Club on Lake Macquarie. Source: Media release, Jul 25 Meicha Greenwood

Six gold … and counting OLYMPICS Australia has raced out of the blocks so far in Week 1 of the Tokyo2020 Olympics, securing three gold medals on Day Five to take their tally of gold medal to 6 and their overall medal count to 16. The medal count sees Australia ranked fifth out of all countries, ahead of Great Britain, with home country Japan on top with 13 gold medals so far. The first seven of Australia’s medals came in Swimming. Queensland’s Brendan Smith won bronze in the Men’s 400

metre Individual Medley on Sunday, July 25 while Wollongong’s Emma McKeon picked up her first gold medal in the Women’s 100m Butterfly, adding to her four medals (one gold) from Rio 2016. The Australian Men’s 4 x 100 metre Freestyle team of Matthew Temple, Zac Incerti, Alexander Graham and Kyle Chalmers also placed third. Australia’s one silver so far was won by Jack McLoughlin in the Men’s 400 metre Freestyle on Sunday, only an hour before our first gold medal won by the Women’s 4 x 100 metre Freestyle team of Bronte Campbell, Meg Harris, Emma

Kaylee McKeown

McKeon and Cate Campbell. The following day, Tasmania’s Ariarne Titmus won gold in the Women’s 400 metre Freestyle in a much-anticipated showdown with legend, Katie Ledecky from the USA.

The win required a colossal effort from the Olympic debutant to come from behind and overtake Ledecky’s lead in the final 100 metres, finishing with a time of 3:56.69. It was a final dash that inspired the most enthusiastic

celebrations of the games from Titmus’ swimming coach, Dean Boxall, who has found himself something of a worldwide internet sensation after his Ultimate Warrior inspired expression. Boxall was noticeably more composed during Titmus’ second gold medal win on Day Five in the 200 metre Freestyle, a race she completed in a new Olympic record time of 1:53.50. On Tuesday, three further medals came for Australia, firstly with gold back in the swimming pool for Kaylee McKeown in the Women’s 100m Backstroke. McKeown’s gold rounded off

two important milestones for our nation, being the 200th medal won by an Australian Woman, as well as being Australia’s first ever Olympic gold in the women's backstroke. Later in the day, bronze came for Shoalhaven’s Owen Wright in the inaugural surfing event after a successful Bronze Medal Final against tournament favourite, Brazilian Gabriel Medina. After falling to Gold medal winner, Italo Ferreira from Brazil, in the semi-final, Wright clinched the third place win with a two wave best of 11.97, ahead of Medina’s 11.77. Continued page 37