Coast Community News 365

Families, health and housing big winners in Budget

Out&About

Wyong firefighters back-to-back state champions

Wyong firefighters proved yet again they’re best in the business by taking out back-to-back NSW State Championships.

Some tough competition kept the pressure on Wyong over the three-day event in wet conditions at Port Macquarie from October 20-22.

The Fire and Rescue Wyong 505 brigade competed against more than 60 firefighters from 15 different brigades, as well as representatives from the NSW Rural Fire Service and Victorian Country Fire Authority.

The State Firefighter Championships test the skills, professionalism and training of regional firefighters, with events simulating a range of

fire and rescue situations.

Wyong won the Alfred Webb Cup as State Champions, followed in second place by Kootingal Rural Fire Service and in third spot was the Port Macquarie crew.

The Wyong brigade was also presented with the Reddaway Casket for the highest aggregated points in hose events; the McMurtrie Trophy for the highest aggregated points in motorised events and the GAAM Trophy for the highest aggregated points in pump and collector events.

Apart from winning team events, individual standouts

Tim Farlow, Hugh Rivera and Rick Cole brought home some glory for the Wyong brigade.

Fire and Rescue Commissioner Paul Baxter said the championship provided firefighters with a unique opportunity to work together and develop their operational skills.

“Although firefighters train for months and there is a strong competitive streak within the stations to prove who the top team is, the championship has the more serious purpose of honing skills that are critical in real emergencies,” he said.

“It’s also the perfect opportunity for firefighters to build comradery, develop friendships with their fellow colleagues and other services personnel.”

Sue Murray

Business

Sport

Young families on the Central Coast were the big winners in the Federal Budget, handed down on October 25 by Treasurer Jim Chalmers, with a multi-billion-dollar childcare package and improvements to parental leave set to make things easier for the region’s parents.

See page 4

An 11 square foot Aboriginal mural and totem poles, designed and painted by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students from Northlakes High School, have been unveiled at a popular community spot in San Rem.

The Clambake Cabaret, to be held on November 5 at the Naughty Noodle Fun Haus as part of Central Coast Council’s Lakes Festival, will mark the Fun Haus’s fourth birthday.

13

Avoca Beach Picture Theatre owners Norman and Beth Hunter have revealed their revamped plan to upgrade the iconic cinema, with submissions on the latest DA to be accepted until November 11.

25

Richard Braddish of Umina Beach has been bodybuilding since he was 16 and has always wanted to compete, but raising a family put his training on hold.

31

Treasurer, Jim Chalmers, Member for Robertson, Gordon Reid (centre), and Finance Minister, Katy Gallagher

Wyong firefighters in action

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Funding boost to help fix those potholes

Some relief to the region’s pothole woes could be in

with Central Coast Council set to apply for its share of $50M recently pledged by the State

to help

and rural councils

potholes brought on by

extreme wet weather.

“Council will be applying for this funding opportunity to assist in the repair of the Central Coast road network, which has seen an inordinate number of potholes occur since February this year,” a

said.

Administrator Rik Hart told the October 11 meeting of Council that more than 73,000 potholes had been addressed this year, with continued wet weather putting permanent fixes on hold.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch, said under the new Fixing Local Roads Pothole Repair Round, Council would be able to apply for funds to address its highest priority pothole repairs.

“It is hard to drive anywhere on our road network without dodging potholes as a result of the wet weather we have experienced this year,” Crouch said.

“Our government has heard the calls for help loud and clear and fixing the hundreds of potholes caused by recent heavy rains and flooding is a priority.

“This additional support will help ease the pressure local councils are facing and boost the resources they can draw upon to repair their most damaged roads to improve safety and reduce wear and tear on vehicles.”

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Sam Farraway, said NSW has had more than its fair share of natural disasters and extreme

weather and that more than 135,000 potholes have been repaired on state roads in regional NSW since February.

“We certainly have plenty more potholes that still require attention, particularly on council-managed roads, which is why our Government is putting more money on the table for councils to repair potholes on the roads regional communities use every day,” Farraway said.

“This funding is available to help every regional council across the state to carry out emergency repairs and would fix roughly more than 420,000

potholes on their roads.”

The new funding builds on the $500M invested by the NSW Government through the Fixing Local Roads program to help regional councils repair, maintain, and seal local roads across the state.

Funding under the Fixing Local Roads Pothole Repair Round is available to 95 regional councils and authorities to help repair potholes on regional and local roads, with work to be completed between January 1, 2023, and January 1, 2024.

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Nomination deadline for Australia Day Awards extended

The nomination deadline Central Coast Council’s 2023 Australia Day Awards has been extended by one week to October 30.

Council’s Director of Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith, said the recent inclement weather might have seen many community members too busy looking after every-day things, including supporting those in

need, to lodge a nomination.

“In extending the nomination period from the October 23 to October 30 we are hoping to provide the community with sufficient opportunity to nominate someone they know,” she said.

“This might be individuals who are leaders in the community, or who work quietly behind the scenes, to make the Central Coast a great place to live.”

Nominations will now close at 5pm on Sunday, October 30.

The 2023 Award categories are: Community Group Award (for work in community services, well-being and community safety); Community Life Award (individual contribution through sport, arts, culture, or environment); Volunteer Award (significant long-term commitment to volunteer work within the community); Young Person

Award (individuals aged 25 or under); Senior Citizen Award (individuals aged 60 or over); and Citizen of the Year, who will be chosen from the winners of each category.

For further information, eligibility criteria and to make a nomination, search Australia Day Awards at centralcoast. nsw.gov.au.

Ross Barry, Publisher

Terry Collins

Council crews repairing potholes in Picnic Pde, Woy Woy, on September 26

Source: Media release, Oct 20 Central Coast Council

Labor commits $8.5M to Gosford waterfront redevelopment if elected

NSW opposition leader

Chris Minns visited Gosford on Saturday to throw NSW Labor’s support behind the redevelopment of the Gosford waterfront with an initial $8.5M pledge to conduct geotechnical and planning work.

Minns was joined by representatives from the Darkingung Land Council, the Gosford/Erina Business Chamber, Central Coast Mariners the Bicycle Users Group and his Central Coast Labor colleagues Liesl Tesch MP, David Harris Shadow Minister for the Central Coast and Member for The Entrance David Mehan.

With the next NSW state election set to take place next March, the NSW Labor Party has committed to the latest planning process for the revitalisation of the Gosford waterfront if elected.

Minns, said the council’s ambitious plan would support recreation, boost local tourism and create opportunities for local business to participate in the construction and after

development.

With revitalisation plans currently at a concept only phase, the funding would go towards a comprehensive investigation into the feasibility of creating an iconic waterfront, resulting in a business case that can be presented to Infrastructure NSW to progress the plans through the Gateway process.

“With a business case in hand, it will finally create certainty over what can be delivered along the Gosford Waterfront, and provide confidence for any future investment decisions,” he said.

“Labor has always believed that Gosford needs to transform from a city with a waterfront into a waterfront city to unlock its economic and public amenity potential.

“When Labor was last in Government it left office with the comprehensive Our City Our Destiny plan which featured deep consultation with community, business and local Government about what could be achieved on the waterfront.

“Labor’s $8.5M commitment is the largest funding announcement to delivering a vibrant Gosford Waterfront since 2011 and reaffirms our commitment to reinvigorate Gosford city.”

The investment would come from the $23.2M the Greater Cities Commission has

apportioned to the Central Coast.

Minns said the redevelopment of the waterfront had been talked about for “far too long”.

“We need to get the ball moving and that is exactly what Labor will do if we have the privilege of forming Government in March next year,” he said.

“A project of this scale has the potential to transform the community, provide opportunities for local jobs and help grow the local economy.”

“It just needs a government with the belief and will to get it done.”

Minns said the region had passionate advocates in local

MPs David Harris (Wyong), Liesl Tesch (Gosford) and David Mehan (The Entrance).

Harris said Labor is committed to a project that delivers maximum public space, is iconic visually and creates employment and tourism opportunities.

“After 12 years of Liberal Government Central Coast people have become cynical about projects never delivered, so we want to ensure before moving forward a detailed feasibility study is undertaken which is inclusive of public consultation,” he said.

“I was involved in the original public consultation – Gosford Challenge, which was award winning – and we wish to return to that format.”

Edgar Adams, Director of the Erina/Gosford Chamber of Commerce also spoke of the support in the business community to get moving on the redevelopment as soon as possible.

David Abrahams

NSW Labor leader Chris Minns at the Gosford Waterfront

Families, health and housing big winners in Budget

Young families on the Central Coast were the big winners in the Federal Budget, handed down on October 25 by Treasurer Jim Chalmers, with a multi-billion-dollar childcare package and improvements to parental leave set to make things easier for the region’s parents.

The budget also saw health, housing and infrastructure benefits for the region, but no increases in the JobSeeker payment and no immediate relief from rising power bills.

Member for Robertson, Gordon Reid, said $4.7B to be invested over four years from 2022-2023 for cheaper childcare would benefit at least 6,900 families in each of the Coast’s two Federal electorates.

“This will not only make sure people can more readily afford childcare but will allow them to re enter the workforce if they choose to,” Reid said.

“More children will be able to access early childhood education and care (and receive) the pre literacy development necessary to engage with the public schools curriculum.”

Funding of $531.6M will see

the Paid Parental Leave Scheme transition from a total 20 weeks in July, 2023, to 26 weeks leave by July, 2026.

Reid said the Government had delivered on its key election promises in an “economically measured and responsible budget”.

Another confirmed election promise will see two Medicare Urgent Care Clinics established in the region, one in each electorate, and a Medicarefunded MRI licence for Wyong Hospital, along with cheaper medicines through a drop in PBS maximum co-payments from $42.50 to $30.

Member for Dobell, Emma McBride, said the moves would give residents access to more

“As a pharmacist who worked at Wyong Hospital for 10 years, I know what it will mean to our community to have this MRI licence confirmed in the Budget,” she said.

“Locals will be able to access affordable, life-saving medical scans when they need it, close to home.”

Reid said existing GP clinics will be able to put their hand up for tender to adapt their practice to an urgent care clinic and engage more staff.

“These urgent care clinics will be bulk billed for adults and children with extended hours and should take the pressure off our hospital Emergency Departments,” he said.

“They will cover the middle ground between GP visits and hospital; for example if you cut your hand and need stitches, you can to go an urgent care clinic.”

Changes to the PBS will mean significant savings for Coast residents, Reid said, especially those who are on more than one regular medication.

The Budget also confirms $40M in roads funding for the entire Central Coast.

“One of the number one issues people raise with me is the state of our roads,” McBride said.

“The Central Coast has some of the worst roads in NSW and after recent weather events, there are more potholes and hazards on our roads than there have been previously, so a $40M injection into local roads will make a big difference.”

Other benefits for the Central Coast include $17.14M for a Food Manufacturing Hub, backed up by $37.5M from industry, which will create more than 280 local jobs, drive economic growth and help expand the region’s food and beverage market (see separate story).

The Government is also delivering $4M towards Tuggerah Lake, with the funds to go to programs including flood mitigation and storm water management.

A major investment in social and affordable housing will see a New Housing Accord between

government, superannuation funds and industry receiving an initial $350M to kickstart the delivery of one million new homes across the country over five years from 2024.

A Housing Australia Future Fund will see 30,000 social and affordable homes built nationwide in its first five years.

Reid said the measures would especially benefit the region’s front-line workers, veteran and older women at risk of homelessness.

With energy costs predicted to soar in the next two years, the Budget offers no shortterm relief, but Reid said the Government was focussed on investing in renewable energy sources, rewiring the grid for more efficiency and installing community batteries leading to long-term savings.

“Narara is to receive one of the community batteries, which are about the size of a 4WD,” he said.

Reid said Jobseeker increases were not on the table at this time.

“One of the (points of) this budget is to take stock of where our economy is at,” he said.

“We need responsible cost of living relief but don’t want to have a significant impact on inflation.”

“There are a lot of issues we have to rectify after 10 years of neglect.

“We’d like to fix everything overnight but need to focus on those measure we can introduce without significantly affecting inflation.”

The Treasury has predicted that inflation will peak at 6.1 per cent this year before dropping to 5.75 per cent in 2023-24.

On Wednesday, the September Quarter CPI showed inflation reaching 7.3% over the past 12 months.

Reid said the budget would also see upgrades to sporting facilities across the electorate, along with telecommunication improvements.

“The announcements in the budget … are targeted and sensible, ensuring that the nation, and the Central Coast, are able to confront the challenges and opportunities of the future,” he said.

The budget at a glance Families

$4.7B over four years to deliver cheaper child care for 1.26 million families

$531.6M over four years to expand Paid Parental Leave to 26 weeks by 2026

Housing

More affordable housing, including through a new national Housing Accord which brings together governments, investors and industry to boost supply and delivery

Health

$787.1M over four years to reduce the general patient copayment for treatments on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme from $42.50 to $30 per script.

$235M for urgent care clinics

Incentive payments of uo to $10,500 for GPs to work in rural and regional areas

$314.4M package to strengthen health outcomes for First Nations people

Education

480,000 fee-free TAFE places and a $50M TAFE Technology Fund to modernise TAFEs.

20,000 additional university places for disadvantaged Australians.

$474.5M over two years to support student well-being and improve classrooms.

Boosting the Work Bonus income bank to give older Australians the option to work and keep more of their pension.

Energy

A Powering Australia Plan to drive investment in cleaner, cheaper energy, including $20B of low-cost finance under Rewiring the Nation to upgrade electricity infrastructure.

Other

$1.8B investment in strong action to protect, restore and manage the natural environment

Up to $200M per year on disaster prevention and resilience initiatives through the Disaster Ready Fund

$15B National Reconstruction Fund to support a future made in Australia.

More than $120B of investment in transport infrastructure over the next 10 years.

$2.4B to extend fibre access to 1.5 million more premises and $1.2B for the Better Connectivity for Regional and Rural Australia Plan.

affordable healthcare.

Terry Collins

Member for Dobell, Emma McBride, with Treasurer, Jim Chalmers

New mural for San Remo reserve

An 11 square foot Aboriginal mural and totem poles, designed and painted by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students from Northlakes High School, have been unveiled at a popular community spot in San Remo.

The mural, located at John Pete Howard Reserve, was created by Year 7 students with support from local artist and Darkinjung Aboriginal Land Council Senior Cultural Heritage Officer, Matthew Syron, and Student Learning and Engagement Officer at Muru Bulbi Aboriginal Education Consultative Group, Rachael Powell.

The project, jointly funded by Central Coast Local Health District’s (CCLHD) Health Promotion Service and Central Coast Council, also saw students design four 3.9-foot totem poles, located near the park entrance.

Head Teacher of Aboriginal Learning and Engagement at Northlakes High School, Stacey Ewer, said it had been rewarding to see the students’ work come to life.

“The students set out to create a piece of artwork that represented a healthy lifestyle, and it’s been amazing to see it come together over the past few weeks,” Ewer said.

“They can really be proud of what they’ve achieved.

“The project has been such a wonderful opportunity not only for the students to express their artistic flair, but to also help them feel connected to their community.”

During the ceremony,

students shared their experiences of taking part in the project, before participating in a number of traditional Indigenous games, led by NSW Office of Sport.

The project builds on previous work in the area to support community wellbeing,

including the recently launched Get Active – San Remo and Blue Haven initiative, a partnership between NSW Office of Sport, Central Coast Council and Central Coast Health Promotion Service.

CCLHD Chief Executive, Scott McLachlan, said projects like

these can have a lasting impact.

“We’re proud to support community projects like this that help connect young people to place,” he said.

“From our work with the communities in San Remo and the surrounding areas, we

know how popular the John Pete Howard Reserve is with locals, so we hope this project will make a lasting, positive contribution to the community.”

“Reasonable” budget could be overshadowed: Business NSW

Business NSW Central Coast has acknowledged the Federal Government’s commitment to its election promises and putting fiscal repair at the heart of this week’s Federal Budget, which forecasts a challenging outlook for businesses already grappling with labour shortages, higher prices and global disruption.

But Business NSW Senior Director Regions and Visitor Economy, Paula Martin, said the “reasonable and proportionate Budget” is at risk of being overshadowed by planned industrial relations changes due to hit federal parliament later this week.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers has announced a projected deficit of $36.9B for the 2022/23 financial year, an improvement of $41.1B coming off the back of high income tax receipts and high commodity prices, she said.

“In a challenging economic environment, there is no doubt this Budget makes the hard decisions to kick off the process of getting us back in the black,”

Martin said.

“With inflation set to peak above 7 per cent later this year before dropping to below 3.5 per cent through next financial year, there is some light on the horizon but our members are still doing it tough.

“Businesses have been resilient and adapted, cutting overheads where possible and even in some cases passing on costs to loyal customers where it’s unavoidable.

“With energy prices forecast to skyrocket next year, we welcome a $62.6M Budget boost for an energy efficiency grants program and a commitment to establish a $20B fund for energy transmission.

“We hope to see the $20B Rewiring the Nation fund for energy transmission delivering genuine savings to energy bills by shifting the costs of energy transition away from energy users.”

The Budget outlines expected economic growth this financial year of above 3 per cent, before slowing to 1.5 per cent next financial year, with unemployment expected to stay low by historical standards.

“More than 9 out 10 businesses have told us they are struggling with staff shortages, and it’s something we expect to remain in the short to medium term,” Martin said

“This Budget locks in some of the key measures discussed at the recent Jobs Summit, with an increase to the permanent Migration Program from 160,000 to 195,000 for this financial year, investing $42.2m to accelerate visa processing and 180,000 feefree TAFE places to be delivered next year.” Ms Martin said.

“The Central Coast business community is set to benefit from a few items outlined in the budget.”

“It is exciting to see $17.2M allocated to the development of the Central Coast Food Innovation Hub at Lisarow included.

“This Hub will be key to contributing to Australia’s food security and take advantage of our already thriving food production sector by encouraging new food startups and innovative food solutions.

“Workforce participation measures were also addressed in this budget.

“Higher subsidies in early childhood education and the ability for aged pensioners to increase their working hours will help the Central Coast improve its extremely low participation rate.

“Businesses need access to valuable experience offered by mature aged Australians and with a current shortage of trainers, this cohort of workers will help with much needed middle management experience and mentoring of existing staff to upskill.

“More than $530M to extend paid parental leave will also increase participation and productivity, with families able

to access up to 26 weeks of leave by 2026.”

A focus on housing supply and affordability in the Budget will be welcomed by the Central Coast business community, Martin said.

“A New Housing Accord between government, investors and industry will see an initial $350M invested in this Budget to kickstart the delivery of one million new homes across the country over five years from 2024.

“There is a lot of work to do to ensure all levels of government and the private sector are pulling the right levers to make this aspirational target a reality, but our recent Central Coast Housing Summit in October clearly showed the need for sensible reform when it comes to getting young people and families into their own home.”

Martin said with natural disasters and the pandemic presenting a significant challenge for the mental health of business operators in the past few years, a $15.1M investment to extend tailored small business mental health and financial counselling

programs is an important and welcome measure.

“But businesses will have one eye on proposed industrial relations legislation that is proposed to be introduced to parliament this week,” she said.

“With such a challenging economic environment laid out in this Budget, the last thing businesses need is both the looming threat of industrywide bargaining supported through crippling strike action and spiralling wage costs.

“We encourage the Government to sit down and consult with the business community about how the Government can achieve its goal of incentivising bargaining without resorting to regular strike action on an industrywide basis.

“Business, unions and government need to work together to support genuine, democratic workplace agreements and avoid jobkilling industrial action from a bygone era.”

Source: Media release, Oct 24 Central Coast Local Health District

Darkinjung Aboriginal Land Council Senior Cultural Heritage Officer, Matthew Syron, Head Teacher of Aboriginal Learning and Engagement at Northlakes High School, Stacey Ewer, students Jayde and Callum, and Central Coast Local Health District Chief Executive, Scott McLachlan, in front of the new mural

Business NSW Central Coast Regional Director, Paula Martin

Improvements to Tuggerah Lakes power ahead

Central Coast Council is powering ahead with improvements to the Tuggerah Lakes after receiving $4.7M from the Federal Government in 2020 to implement a threeyear Estuary and Catchment Ecological Health Project as part of its management of the Tuggerah Lakes Estuary.

“So far, this funding has supplemented Council funds to help us rehabilitate a total of 99.2Ha of wetlands, 19.26Ha of streambank, 45.84Ha of Saltmarsh, 1.09Ha of Swamp Oak Forest and 1.81Ha of Coastal Dunes,” a council spokesperson said.

“That equals a massive 312 football fields worth of environmental land that has been restored so far.

“Actions carried out included weed control, planting and remediation of disturbed land and access control to try to prevent vandalism.

“By rehabilitating important natural filter environments such as wetlands and saltmarsh we improve ecological condition and ecosystem services such as nutrient cycling, erosion control, carbon sequestration, habitat provision range and connectivity, air and water quality and stability, flood control, pollination and climate regulation.”

Council is also upgrading some existing stormwater devices to improve the treatment of approximately 35.63Ha of stormwater runoff from urban catchments.

“Council is working in partnership with technical experts, consultants and industry leaders to ensure the highest standards of ecological outcomes are delivered for the environment, estuary and community – contributing to a healthier and more vibrant estuary we can all enjoy, long into the future,” the spokesperson said.

Groundswell of opposition to power station sale

joined forces in a groundswell of

the

company,

Investments.

of

Station

September Sunset Power International announced its intention to sell the power station, along with Great Southern Energy’s Mannering Colliery and Chain Valley Colliery which provide coal to the power station.

Sev.en is a private investment group which targets restructuring and growth opportunities within the international energy and mining industry.

The 11 groups united against the power station sale are Coal-ash Community Alliance, Progress Associations at Mannering Park and Coal Point, Community Environment Network, Future Sooner, Hunter Community Environment Centre, Knitting Nannas Hunter Loop, Keep Lake Macquarie Clean, and Sustainable Neighbourhood Groups at Five Bays, Warners Bay and Toronto They are urging Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers to

reject the sale under the foreign investment review powers of the Foreign Acquisitions and Takeovers Act 1975 and say Sev.en’s potential purchase of Vales Point power station has aroused concern, anxiety and suspicion in the local community.

The environment groups fear that power station impacts, including 60 million tonnes of

coal-ash waste, thermal pollution affecting seagrass and toxic air emissions could worsen under new private ownership.

They are calling for accountability, transparency and certainty around the closure dates and rehabilitation of the power station.

“We need a guarantee that there will be no erosion of

current pollution controls and assurance that environmental regulations will be fully enforced,” said Sue Wynn of Mannering Park Progress.

“We need certainty about the power station’s future.”

Spokesperson for the Hunter Community Environment Centre, Jo Lynch said the community was still in the dark about the role of Vales Point in

the recent fish kills.

“What actions are being taken to reduce decades of contamination impacts, recently found to have leached offsite?

“How the new owner will view these issues of high priority to local communities and environments is unclear,” she said.

Central Coast Greens, the Nature Conservation Council (NCC) and Environmental Justice Australia have also expressed their concerns over the power station sale.

The NCC says the sale should trigger the NSW Environment Protection Authority to bring the plant into compliance with Clean Air Regulation and the Greens are concerned the closure of the power station would “more likely” be extended beyond its scheduled date of 2029.

“At the very least, a clear schedule and conditions must be put on the sale that ensures the clean-up of the coal-ash dams and rehabilitation of the land, based on all international environmental standards,” said Greens MP and Central Coast, Hunter and Newcastle spokesperson, Abigail Boyd.

And Future Sooner spokesperson, Gary Blaschke of Lake Munmorah, says there should be an independent transparent review into the sale that includes community consultation and involvement.

Source: Media release, Oct 26 Central Coast Council

The Tuggerah Lakes Estuary

Sue Murray

Vales Point Power Station

Government looks at updating tenancy laws

The NSW Government is looking to investigating whether or not residential tenancy laws need updating and is looking for feedback from Central Coast real estate agents, tenants and housing groups.

Minister for Fair Trading, Victor Dominello, said the first of two issues to be considered was if improvements to 2019 laws which allow people to terminate residential leases in order to escape violent relationships were needed.

“These laws empower victims of domestic violence to take direct and immediate

action to end a fixed-term or periodic tenancy without penalty, including ending a tenancy agreement to protect a dependent child,” Dominello said.

“The changes were introduced to reduce some of the barriers preventing victims from fleeing domestic violence and to give greater certainty about ending the tenancy.”

The laws also ensure victims are not responsible for any damage caused by a domestic violence perpetrator during a domestic violence offence.

Input is also sought on rules about keeping pets in rental homes to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.

“Although pet ownership is on the rise, NSW landlords can refuse to allow a tenant to keep an animal without providing any reason – unless it’s an assistance animal,” Dominello said.

“We are aware other jurisdictions have reformed their laws to make it easier to keep pets in rental properties, and we want to hear feedback from tenants, property managers, landlords and the general public on our current rules and whether they should be changed.”

Minister for Women’s Safety and Domestic Violence, Natalie Ward, said these consultations will help boost the NSW

Grants to improve fish habitats

With the region ‘s fish stocks hit hard in recent years by extreme weather, Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch, is encouraging eligible groups to apply for the Fish Habitat Grants program, offering up to $400,000 per year for projects improve habitats to enhance and sustain coastal fish populations.

Crouch said the program seeks to target larger scale projects, which require higher levels of funding assistance, and will benefit recreational fishers by enhancing fish habitats.

“These grants offer a rare opportunity for regional fishing clubs, local and state government agencies and nongovernment organisations to improve fish habitats, water

quality and fish passage at a large scale or in challenging environments within our local creek, river or estuary,” he said.

“Our coastal catchments and waterways have been hit hard by extreme natural events in recent years.

“This has highlighted the need for assistance to give fish stocks the best chance to survive and thrive.

“Funded by the Recreational Fishing Trust, this program is another excellent example of how recreational fishing fees are helping to support and improve fisheries in NSW.”

Minister for Agriculture, Dugald Saunders, said the grants program builds on the existing Habitat Action Grants program.

“I am excited to support

funding that provides local organisations the tools to safeguard and enhance their local fish habitats and recreational fisheries,” he said.

“Thanks to this grant program, over $2M has already been provided by the NSW Government to successful applicants to initiate and progress fish habitat rehabilitation projects.”

Government’s coordinated response to domestic and family violence.

Feedback will help shape any reforms that might be needed to the current laws.

The consultations are open until December 2 at: www. haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/petsin-rental-homes

For more information or to seek help on ending a tenancy due to domestic violence, go to www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/ housing-and-property/renting/ during-a-tenancy/domesticviolence-in-a-rented-property.

Applications close Friday, November 4.

For more information about the program and to apply, visit:https://www.dpi.nsw.gov. au/fishing/habitat/ rehabilitating/ahr-grantsprogram/flagship-fish-eoi.

No free train travel on the horizon

Central Coast commuters will not be enjoying free train travel anytime soon, with the Federal Court this week quashing an appeal for an urgent hearing on the legality of union plans to deactivate Opal card readers at the state’s railway stations.

The move is the latest planned action as negotiations between unions and the State Government over salary and safety issues continue to stall.

Enterprise Agreement delegates from the Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) will discuss the union’s next moves after the Court decided on October 25 to dismiss an urgent hearing, proposing hearing dates for February or March next year.

Minister for Transport, David Elliott, and Minister for Employee Relations, Damien Tudehope, said it was “entirely unnecessary” for the union to be in this position.

“The Government’s priority is allowing rail workers to access a fair and reasonable increase in pay and conditions by taking its offer to a vote,” they said.

“This offer has been negotiated with representatives of six unions during the course of 64 bargaining meetings held

over more than 12 months, equating to 50,000 hours and 6,250 business days.

“Once again, the NSW Government urges the rail unions to agree to put the proposed Enterprise Agreement package, including the $1.1B modifications to the New Intercity Fleet, bonuses for workers for accepting overtime and a one-off payment of $3,185, to a vote of its members to ensure rail workers benefit from the increased pay and generous allowances before Christmas.”

But the RBTU said it was “disappointed” with the Federal Court’s decision.

“It is clearly in the best interests of the community and our hardworking frontline members to have this question resolved as soon as possible and the RTBU is considering an appeal,” a spokesperson said.

“This case came about on the back of a heartless and vicious legal strategy of a government hellbent on taking us back to the days of the waterfront disputes.

“It is clear that this is a desperate government willing to put all of its energy into dragging the union before the courts until the March election, at the expense of commuters.”

Source: Media release, Oct 20 NSW Government

Source: Media release, Oct 24 Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch

Terry Collins

It seems there won’t be free travel on Central Coast trains anytime soon

Report on homelessness among older people released

The NSW Parliament Inquiry into Homelessness amongst older people aged over 55, instigated by Greens MLC and Central Coast resident, Abigail Boyd, has released its report, delivering 40 substantive recommendations.

With older women the fastest-growing cohort of people experiencing homelessness, the report is the first of its kind in Australia investigating the unique experiences and drivers of homelessness among older people.

Action on Housing for Older Women, a support and advice group on the Coast, has welcomed the findings.

Convenor Deb Tipper said while the recommendations in the report were welcome and comprehensive, the proof would be in the reaction of the State Government, expected to be announced in January next year.

“It’s a national crisis, with an increase of 30 per cent in older women facing homelessness between 2011 and 2016, but I believe the numbers on the Central Coast are higher than the national average,” she said.

“The situation here is exacerbated by the fact that we have high numbers of the population who are older and on low incomes and high incidences of domestic and family violence and elder abuse.

“And many older women hide their situation, with shame a big issue; they are sleeping on couches, staying with friends or relatives.

“All of these factors suggest a higher increase in homelessness numbers on the Coast.”

Tipper said the Coast was the only region which hosted a hearing for the inquiry and she was hopeful that would lead to recognition of the region’s specific problems and priority being given to the area.

“I think the report’s findings and recommendations show that the inquiry heard really well the issues raised,” she said.

“What will be interesting is how the government

responds.”

“If some of the recommendations are adopted, they will be longterm projects.

“I think it’s important that the report noted that not only was there a need for more housing, but it has to be targeted- the traditional refuge model does not work for older women.”

“Housing needs to be designed to be safe and secure but also cater for them to be able to have their grandchildren come to stay.”

Tipper said older women often found themselves in dire housing situations due to the fact they had traditionally been primary carers to children and older people, working in casual or part-time situations,

with poor access to superannuation.

“Many older women facing homelessness are actually working but if they can’t get housing near where they work, participation suffers,” she said.

Recommendations include such actions as increasing and improving social housing, providing wraparound support services tailored to older people at risk of or experiencing homelessness, prioritising non-punitive Housing First homelessness services, and increasing data collection and transparency to follow emerging homelessness trends.

Boyd, who is The Greens Spokesperson for Older People and Women’s Equity and

Economic Justice said many vulnerable women were being left behind by the system.

“Older women are being failed by a social housing system in crisis and by punitive government services that overlook the realities of homelessness and make no effort to assist those attempting to navigate the maze of support services,” she said.

“We initiated this inquiry because we saw that older women in particular were being overlooked by the housing system.

“The countless older women who generously shared their stories gave such compelling evidence — the previously hidden crisis of homelessness among older women can no longer be ignored.

“The stories shared have proven that most of us are just one life event away from being homeless — whether by losing our job, having a loved one pass away, becoming ill or leaving a bad relationship — and yet there are hardly any government safety nets to stop people losing the roof over their head.

“Older women are particularly vulnerable because, after a lifetime of parenting and caring responsibilities leading to lower superannuation, they are without the financial security to keep their head above water when times are tough.”

“There is no one quick solution to this urgent crisis, so it is vitally important for the Government to commit to

implementing all 40 recommendations of this landmark report without delay.”

Key recommendations include: that the NSW Government consider the establishment of a funded specialist housing information and support service for older people that comprises both an early intervention and crisis response; that the State Government advocate for the Australian Government to include a specific allocation for older people on low incomes in the Help to Buy program and the extension of the National Rental Affordability Scheme and/or establish a plan to assist older people transitioning out of the scheme; that the State Government urge the Australian Government to examine opportunities to increase social security payments, including an increase to Commonwealth Rent Assistance; that the State Government look at maintenance and retrofitting of social housing stock to ensure dwellings meet the needs of tenants, including older people; that application processes for housing and support services be streamlined; and that the NSW Government consider funding the construction of new social or community housing that is specifically allocated to older women.

The report in full can be found on NSW Parliament’s website.

CBD parking remains an issue with $30M carpark pledge lost

The $30M pledged by the former Federal Government for commuter carparking in Gosford has become a casualty of the March election, with parking options in the CBD remaining scarce.

Member for Robertson, Gordon Reid, said the Gosford and Woy Woy commuter carpark program was a “failed legacy” of the former Liberal Government.

“There was no adequate planning or delivery of these car parks, and they were part of the immense waste and rorts that contributed to the one trillion dollars of Liberal party debt,” Reid said.

The demise of the program was confirmed by its absence from the Federal Budget handed down on October 25 by Treasurer Jim Chalmers.

“The Budget … begins the hard task of long-term budget repair and returns responsible

economic management to the Federal Parliament,” Reid said.

“It is also important to note that the workplace environment has changed, with more people working from home, and less people

commuting into the metropolitan centres.”

Gosford Erina Business Chamber (GEBC) President Peter Lawley said parking in Gosford remained an issue.

“The loss of the $30M is not surprising given no movement

occurred under the previous Government to actually achieve additional car parking in Gosford.”

“Whilst there were several proposals, nothing seemed to move to the next stage.

“With the introduction of

opal car payment in the commuter carpark, the car park isn’t as full as it was preCOVID.

“What does need to be addressed is the actual parking in the CBD, with evidence showing the Baker Street carpark generally has 400 or more vacant spaces during each day.”

Lawley said he understood the NSW Government Workcover building has exclusive access to the two top floors of the carpark.

“Since COVID, (with) people working from home etc, this is almost 99 per cent vacant,” he said.

“GEBC appreciates Central Coast Council receives an income for the exclusive use of this area by Workcover, but to the detriment of available spaces for the public and workers in the CBD.”

Lawley said several easily introduced steps could be

taken to relieve parking congestion in the CBD.

The shuttle between Adcock Park and Racecourse Rd parking could be brought back for for CBD workers with unlimited, all-day parking, he said.

“Additional limited time (1 hour or 2-hour max) parking could be introduced in the streets from Point Frederick in the south to North Gosford, and parking areas like McGowan Bridge could be used for visitors,” he said.

He also suggested renegotiating with the State Government to access for reasonable pay per hour parking in the Baker Street carpark and improving access.

“(These) may not solve the long-term need for a multi deck parking station closer to the CBD, but will go a long way to improving (the situation) for the next few years,” he said.

Terry Collins

Source: Media release, Nov 24 Abigal Bloyd, MLC

Older women are particularly vulnerable

The top levels of Baker Street carpark are often empty

Daring mission to rescue dog on cliff

Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) firefighters have trekked through bushland and abseiled down a cliff face to rescue a trapped dog on the state’s Central Coast.

‘Marley,’ the Shar-Pei cross, and his owner were bushwalking along a fire trail near Somersby around 3.15pm October 15 when the dog ran after a goanna and plunged six-metres over the cliff, landing on a ledge.

The owner contacted Triple Zero (000) and a FRNSW rescue team from Gosford arrived at the scene.

The fire crew walked threekilometres into the bush with rescue equipment and a firefighter abseiled down the cliff face, reaching the dog, which was precariously perched above a 40-metre drop.

The firefighter secured ‘Marley’ into a harness before they were both lowered safely to the ground.

The uninjured pet was soon reunited with his grateful owner, without further incident.

Source: FRNSW Media

Police dog finds man hiding in school

A 28-year-old man wanted by Police on a warrant for breaching bail and stealing matters was arrested after Police dog Xtra found him hiding in a school.

Police from Central Coast Highway Patrol spotted the man at about 11.40pm on Thursday, October 20.

He was wanted by Police for vehicle theft and other stealing matters in the Green Point area.

When the man noticed Police he ran and hid in a nearby school.

Police attended the area and a perimeter was established with the assistance of Brisbane Water Police District and

Gosford Police Transport Command.

Police Dog Xtra and his handler located the man a short distance away hiding in the school with a small amount of drugs in his possession.

He was taken to Gosford Police Station where he was charged with the warrant, breaching bail, possessing prohibited drugs and a number of counts of stealing.

The man was refused bail until he faced Gosford Local Court.

Help identify woman from train station

Public Transport Command police are calling for public assistance to identify a woman depicted in footage from Wyong railway station.

Police believe the woman can assist their enquiries regarding an alleged assault on a train on Friday, October 7.

Police say that the person depicted in the photograph

may or may not be directly involved in a crime, they just need to establish her identity to further their inquiries.

Anyone with information that could help identify the woman is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, quoting Police Report E91524358.

Alternatively, information can be provided confidentially via the Crime Stoppers online reporting page at: https:// www1.police.nsw.gov.au/.

Source: NSW Police

ADVERTISEMENT

Source: Brisbane Water Police

Help police identify this woman

Man charged at Gosford stationPolice dog Xtra

Just when you think Central Coast Council has done its worst, we are faced with yet another iteration of the Gosford Waterfront Fiasco that, believe it or not, is of even less merit than the previous one (“Gosford waterfront redevelopment plan opens for public consultation”, CCN 364).

Despite all the high-flown rhetoric, this latest foray (i) totally fails to integrate the waterfront with the central district development, (ii) limits public access to the waterfront to one miserable overpass, located in the worst position possible, (iii) proposes architectural solutions that don’t even scale the heights of

mediocrity, (iv) presents no expression of whatever unique characteristic justifies the revamping of the Gosford waterfront, and (v) demonstrates no practical probability that the scheme is implementable.

If we were serious about opening up the waterfront for 21st-century use, the first requirement would be to sink a lengthy portion of the Central Coast Highway, from the Dane Drive roundabout, to provide real public access.

We’d also need to revamp the pedestrian access from the centre to the waterfront.

We don’t need an enclosed

boat harbour, as deadly storms on Brisbane Water are quite rare (although the harbour entrance would offer the opportunity of constructing a giant figure of Rik Hart, surveying his domain).

Naturally, no waterfront redevelopment would be complete without the elusive ferry wharf, although what use it will be in the most remote corner of the picture isn’t easy to imagine.

If a ferry should ever prove to be feasible (highly unlikely), the terminal should be as close as possible to the Dane Drive roundabout and to the suggested carpark which also looks like a hopeful wish rather than a genuine prospect.

I’d dearly love to support the idea of an amphitheatre, as I have fond memories of the Balmoral amphitheatre, so often viewed from the Manly ferry, and felt a great sense of loss when it was demolished to make way for a mundane block of flats.

However, I cannot discern any mention of a possible use for such a structure in Gosford, and it seems doubtful that any spectacular event is likely to transpire on Brisbane Water that we’d all gather to see.

If it is merely intended as some kind of general performance space, it should be in Leagues Park and not in the semi-inaccessible place suggested by the plan.

Perhaps, this could be the

site for a casino, sending out beckoning beams of light to the high rollers arriving by luxury yacht from overseas ports “to join one of the great waterfronts of the world” (cue drumroll).

The whole thing looks like a random collection of every thought that has been put forward for the waterfront over the years, with a few new imaginative bubbles thrown in for good measure, but with no plausible analysis, no time frame, no budget and no implementation mechanism suggested.

We are being invited to submit comments on the scheme, but there isn’t enough hard information to fill a thimble on which anybody

could constructively comment, so this sounds like the typical PR exercise of the Council, with no purpose other than to be able to say that “the public was consulted”.

The only saving grace is that this scheme will likely wind up in the dusty bottom drawer, along with all its predecessors, so let us hold our fire until we see whether we really have anything to worry aboutperhaps, around the time of the next election.

Email, 23 Oct Bruce Hyland, Woy Woy

Clambake Cabaret sure to be a hoot

The Clambake Cabaret, to be held on November 5 at the Naughty Noodle Fun Haus as part of Central Coast Council’s Lakes Festival, will mark the Fun Haus’s fourth birthday.

Clambake is a standout popular feature of the festival known for its creative, original, and often breathtaking take on the “Lakes” theme, with this year’s theme being Swamp Thang.

Producer Glitta Supernova said the kooky cabaret would feature bawdy burlesque, sideshow sweethearts, drag divas and creatures of cabaret rising from the Brisbane Water mangrove mounds.

“The definition of cabaret has evolved over the years and contemporary cabaret bends the classic towards work that engages high and low culture together, uniting and crisscrossing roots across musical cabaret, variety, comedy, drag, burlesque, and

performance art,” she said.

“We are very proud to be able to bring this new work out especially post what we have all been through over the last couple of years.”

Award winning headliner performers coming from Sydney, Canberra and the Blue Mountains include performance artists Justin Shoulder, circus style showgirl Sian Brigid and burlesque and performance trio The Divergent Dolls.

“We also have a strong local focus keeping local Coastie performers in paid, engaging new work, so also taking the stage is the brilliant cultural satire jazz musician Dorian Mode, First Nations Nonbinary Queen Diva D-Lish flying high with a circus aerial show, young jazz and blues singer Hannah-Rae, Drag by Khandii Kum Loudly,” Supernova, who will be hostess at the cabaret, said.

“The new wave of cabaret is one of the most theatrical

formats around the globe right now not only because its heaps of fun and a bit cheeky but because it is accessible and inclusive in its content and crosses class, age, gender, culture and sexuality.

“Like all productions the Naughty Noodle develops or delivers, it’s a melting pot of people and ideas, work that weaves contemporary social criticism, activism, and identity politics with ironic humour, drag ethos and pop culture deconstructions.

“In a nutshell, it’s a hoot.” Mandatory dress code is swamp thangs and sea hags, sirens and seaweed couture, mermen and Neptune.

Clambake Cabaret will be at the naughty Noodle Fun Haus, Ettalong Beach, at 8pm on November 5 – tickets are available at naughtynoodle. com.au/whats-on/clambake/.

Source: Media release, Oct 25 Naughty Noodle Fun Haus

Sian Brigid

Central Coast based international artist Maree Azzopardi will open her new exhibition of recent works in solo, Fireworks, at Gosford Regional Gallery on October 29.

The new body of artwork has been created over the past 18 months with ink, works on paper, paintings, and embellishments of gold and charcoal scavenged post bushfire and flood from Central Coast beaches.

In her works, Azzopardi questions the human condition in contexts of war, grief, loss and regeneration and where we stand in the bigger picture of the challenging world.

The exhibition will be on show until December 13.

Two more exhibitions will open on November 4 and be on show until January 29, 2023

– Lionel’s Place: Lionel Lindsay from the Maitland Regional Art

Three new exhibitions at regional gallery

Gallery Collection and Underscoring the Commons: James Hazel.

Lionel’s Place showcases more than 140 artworks created by Lionel Lindsay, an artist who honed his skills in etching and wood engraving so finely that by 1927 he was hailed as the most internationally successful Australian printmaker of all time.

The exhibition showcases the artist’s etchings, wood engravings and watercolours, works on paper rich in visual texture.

They depict scenes from abroad and closer to home, exotic and domestic animals and birds, and the lushness of gardens, floral abundance and portraiture.

Lionel’s Place is a Maitland Regional Art Gallery Touring Exhibition.

Underscoring the Commons

is a project by James Hazel, who uses sound to explore the idea of the shared “commons” – the relationship between

communities and the social/ physical environments that are integral for sustaining lives and livelihoods.

Through each iteration of Underscoring the Commons, Hazel works with communities

to construct a musical score of the geographic and social ecologies of sites with complex working-class histories.

In the creation of UTC: 33.4267° S, 151.3417° E (the coordinates of Gosford), Hazel will conduct recordings of soundscapes, community music ensembles, and interviews with residents.

This ever-expanding, living, and breathing archive will form a listening experience available on looped broadcast in Gosford Regional The gallery, where Hazel will invite community input through QR codes, to be woven into the tapestry of the score.

James Hazel is an artist, writer, and researcher who works across video, text and extended score practices.

Picnic at Hanging Rock comes to Red Tree Theatre

Red Tree Theatre at Tuggerah, in association with Jopuka Productions, is set to bring to life one of Australia’s most adored gothic tales.

Joan Lindsay’s classic Picnic at Hanging Rock was adapted for the stage in 2015 by Tom Wright and is more haunting than ever.

Co-Directed by Jopuka’s AWGIE-nominated Joshua Maxwell and Rosie Ross, who

recently directed Gosford Musical Society’s School Of Rock, the show features a stellar cast of young actresses, including Emma King, Courtney-Jayde Buckley, Emerson Goodenough, Tayah Blackman and Jacinta Govind.

“Hanging Rock is one of those shows that has haunted me for years,” Maxwell said.

“I always knew I’d love to bring it to the Coast one day, so when Red Tree reached out and asked if we could fill an opening

in the calendar, we jumped at it.

“Hanging Rock is a visceral piece of Australiana which has gripped our nation for over 100 years.”

“We love a mystery, real or imagined.”

There will be eight performances over two weeks from November 4-12, including a special Wednesday matinee performance.

The production will run during The Festival of Creativity hosted

by Red Tree Theatre and Art at Work, celebrating local artists from the Central Coast.

The production contains occasional coarse language and horror themes, runs for 85 minutes with no intervals, and is not recommended for those aged under 13.

More details and bookings are available at www. redtreetheatre.org.au.

Source: Media release, Oct 24 2022 Central Coast Council

by Maree Azzopardi

Source: Media release, Oct 25 Jopuka Productions

Young talent shines in Discovered grand final

Sybella McKay, 19, has taken out first place in the Open Division at the recent 2022 Discovered Grand Final.

In the Kids Division 12-yearold Ehryn Bala took the top award as 11 young Coasties took to the stage at The Hub Erina

Central Coast Council Unit Manager Leisure Beach Safety and Community Facilities, Phil Cantillon, said the Discovered competition is a great opportunity to recognise young Central Coast talent.

“I’d like to congratulate all contestants who performed in the grand final event, offering an exciting vocal display for those in attendance,” he said.

“Central Coast Council developed the Discovered vocal program and competition with the aim of contributing to the well-being of young local singers, whilst helping to build their confidence and allow them to do what they love whilst feeling inspired and challenged.

“Now in its 10th series, the Discovered competition has

engaged over 600 aspiring young singers since its inception, with some going on to perform in Australia’s Got Talent, The Voice, and Australian Idol.

“I look forward to seeing what this year’s contestants go on to achieve.”

Council Administrator, Rik

Hart, said Discovered has become a much-loved annual vocal program on the Central Coast and provides great opportunities for young people to engage with the music industry.

“It’s evident that we have many talented young people within our region, and it’s

important that we continue to nurture their development and growth through offering programs such as the Discovered vocal program and competition,” he said.

In the Open Division (13-24 years), second place went to Alana Hedges and third to Julien Droguett.

In the Kids Division (7-12 years), runners up were Mia Gordon and Natasha Moyle.

A full list of prize recipients can be found at centralcoast. nsw.gov.au/discovered.

This Discovered program is support by Central Coast music industry personalities and entities including Gina Jeffreys,

Rod McCormack, Musicians Making A Difference (MMAD) and Linda Wareham (International Award-winning Music Director).

Appleton Ladies’ Potato Race opens at Peninsula Theatre

The ladies of Appleton are getting set for the annual Potato Race – and so the stage is set for Woy Woy Little Theatre’s last play of the year, set to open at Peninsula Theatre on October 28.

The Appleton Ladies’ Potato Race is an all-female contemporary Australian play – thought provoking and with plenty of laughs.

Director Jan Grounds said the quirkily titled piece is based on a true annual event held in Robertson, NSW.

“The writer, Melanie Tait, lived there but, years later, after leaving for a career in the big smoke, noticed the unequal prize money for men and women on a website and thought to right a wrong,” Grounds said.

“Out of her own experience she wrote a play with genuine affection for a small country community gently exploring equality, racial prejudice and homophobia.

“The characters are rich in past life experiences making them humorous, flawed, interesting and likeable.

“I’m so fortunate to have a wonderful cast of five strong actors to bring play to life –Darienne Knight, Chris Cherry, Teanau Murphy, Kathryn Peterson and Liane Porter.”

Peterson plays Penny, who returns to the county town after being around the world and attaining two degrees and one fellowship, with strong ideas of equality and righting a wrong.

The play is about how rest of her family, friends and the wider community try to

accommodate this way of thinking.

“But it’s not just about that one issue,” Grounds said.

“A lot of key issues are

covered as the community adjusts and shifts to a changing environment.”

Murphy plays Pennys’ cousin Nikki, who has never left the

country town and is at the centre of community life.

She harbours some resentment to her globetrotting cousin.

Their aunt Barb (Cherry) is motherly and caring and tries to play peacemaker, while Barb’s lifelong friend Bev (Knight) who runs the Appleton Show, has problems of her own with an ailing husband and an alcoholic son.

Syrian refugee Rania (Porter), who is a good friend of Nikki’s, is trying to adapt and fit in.

“All of these characters are rich in life experience and the way their stories come out and interweave makes for great theatre,’ Grounds said.

The Appleton Ladies’ Potato Race plays at Peninsula Theatre from October 28-November 13.

See Woy Woy Little Theatre website for session times and bookings.

Source: Media release, Oct 21 Central Coast Council

Winners Ehryn Bala (Kids) and Sybella McKay (Open)

Terry Collins

The cast: Darienne Knight, Teanau Murphy, Liane Porter, Kathryn Peterson and Chris Cherry

6:00 News

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The auditions continue as one moving AGT performance will receive a Golden Buzzer, sending them straight through to the Semi-Finals. Host Ricki-Lee and AGT judges David Walliams, Kate Ritchie.

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5:00 Worldwatch

[s]

Callinan’s 4X4 Adventures

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12:00 Worldwatch

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Australia

his arrest

the first

The special

a dramatic raid

a storage facility.

7:30 Movie: “Star Wars

The

(M v) (’15)

the

of the Galactic Empire, a

Stars: Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill

“Monster Hunter” (M

(’20) Stars: Milla Jovovich

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“Kong: Skull Island” (M) (’17)

Tom Hiddleston, Samuel L Jackson, Brie Larson

“Pacific Rim: Uprising” (M) (’18) Stars: John Boyega

“I Am Legend” (M h,v) (’07)

Will Smith

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The Block: Landscape Week (PG) [s]

2:50 David Attenborough Seven Worlds, One Planet (PG) [s]

4:00 Bondi Vet (PG) [s]

5:00 NINE News: First At Five [s]

5:30 RBT: Don’t Trust Your Friends (PG) [s]

6:00 NBN News Sunday [s]

7:00 The Block: Landscape Reveal (PG) [s]

8:30 60 Minutes (PG) [s]

9:30 NINE News Late [s]

10:00 The First 48: Deadly Premonition (M v) [s]

11:00 Killer Couples: Lisa Toney And Sienky Lallemand (MA15+) [s]

First Responders (M) [s]

Tipping Point (PG) [s]

7:00 Bondi Rescue (PG) [s]

7:30 Blue Bloods: First Blush (M) [s]

– Frank causes family tension by not endorsing Erin’s run for district attorney. Danny investigates a bloody crime scene at a hotel.

8:30 CSI: Vegas: The Painted Man (M v) [s]

9:30 NCIS: Daddy Issues (M) [s]

10:30 My Life Is Murder (M) [s]

11:30 The Cheap Seats (M l) [s]

12:30 Home Shopping

4:30 Authentic (PG) [s]

5:00 Religious Programs [s]

6:00 Religious Programs [s]

8:00 The Living Room [s]

9:00 Luca’s Key Ingredient [s]

9:30 Studio 10: Sunday (PG) [s]

12:00 The Traitors (PG) [s]

1:15 My Market Kitchen [s]

1:30 Good Chef Bad Chef [s]

2:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield [s]

2:30 Freshly Picked With Simon Toohey [s]

3:00 Cook With Luke [s]

3:30 Farm To Fork (PG) [s]

4:00 Well Traveller (PG) [s]

4:30 Taste Of Australia With Hayden Quinn [s]

5:00 10 News First [s]

6:30 The Sunday Project (PG) [s]

7:30 The Traitors (PG) [s]

9:00 NCIS: Hawaii: Blind Curves (M v) [s]

10:00 FBI: Uncovered (M v) [s]

11:00 The Sunday Project (PG) [s] 12:00 Home Shopping

4:30 CBS Mornings [s]

4:30 The Students, The Traitor And The Nazis (PG) (In French/ English)

5:30 Hidden Heroes: The Nisei Soldiers Of WWII (PG)

6:30 SBS World News

7:35 Michael Palin - Travels Of A Lifetime (PG)

8:25 Secrets Of The Royal Palaces: Doctors (PG)

9:20 Ramses The Great Empire Builder (PG)

10:10 Celebrity Letters And Numbers (PG)

11:10 Movie: “The Game” (M) (’97)

5:00 Worldwatch

9:00 Ageless Gardens: Gardening Together/ Sacred Spaces (PG)

9:30 The World From Above (PG)

11:00 Paul O’Grady For The Love Of Dogs (PG)

12:00 Worldwatch

1:00 Motor Sports

3:30 Figure Skating: ISU Grand Prix America

5:30 Taekwondo

5:35 Lost Home Movies Of Nazi Germany: Hubris (PG)

6:30 SBS World News

7:30 Curse Of The Ancients: Pagans (PG)

8:30 Lost Cities Of The Bible: Mystery Of The Great Flood (PG)

9:25 Lost Cities Of The Bible: Secrets Of Nineveh And Babylon (PG)

10:25 King Arthur’s Britain: Truth Unearthed King Arthur’s Lost Kingdom (M)

6:00 News Breakfast [s]

9:00 ABC News Mornings [s]

10:00 Landline [s]

11:00 Antiques Roadshow [s]

12:00 ABC News At Noon [s]

1:00 Rosehaven (PG) [s]

1:25 Vera (M v) [s]

3:10 Gardening Australia [s]

4:10 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces (PG) [s]

5:00 Anh’s Brush With Fame (PG) [s]

5:25 Hard Quiz (PG) [s]

6:00 The Drum [s]

7:00 ABC News [s]

7:30 7.30 (PG) [s]

8:00 Australian Story (PG) [s]

8:30 Four Corners (PG) [s]

9:20 Media Watch (PG) [s]

9:35 Planet America [s]

10:05 Australia’s Best Competition Competition (PG) [s]

11:10 ABC Late News [s]

11:25 The Business [s]

11:40 Q+A [s]

12:45 Rick Stein’s Secret France [s]

6:00 Sunrise [s]

9:00 The Morning Show [s]

11:30 Seven Morning News [s]

12:00 Movie: “A Teacher’s Crime” (M) (’08) Stars: Ashley Jones, Erik Knudsen, Chris Mulkey

2:00 Highway Patrol: Rider On The Run (PG) [s]

2:30 The Chase UK (PG) [s]

3:30 Program To Be Advised

5:00 Program To Be Advised

6:00 Seven News [s]

7:00 Home And Away (PG) [s]

7:30 Australia’s Got Talent (PG) [s]

The final auditions take to the AGT stage in a chance to secure a spot in the SemiFinals. Unmissable acts from Australia and across the globe stun the judges.

9:15 9-1-1 (M) [s]

10:15 S.W.A.T.: Buried (M v) [s]

11:15 The Latest Seven News [s]

11:45 Heartbreak Island Australia (M l) [s]

1:00 Home Shopping

6:00 Sunrise [s]

9:00 The Morning Show [s]

11:30 Seven Morning News [s]

12:00 Movie: “Kiwi” (M) (’18) Stars: Nick Blake, Alison Bruce, Patrick Carroll, Phil Peleton, Amelia Reynolds

2:00 World’s Deadliest: Twist Of Fate (PG) [s]

3:00 The Chase UK (PG) [s]

4:00 Seven News At 4 [s]

6:00 Today [s]

9:00 Today Extra [s]

11:30 NINE’s Morning News [s]

12:00 The Block: Landscape Week (PG) [s]

1:30 Getaway (PG) [s]

2:00 Pointless (PG) [s]

3:00 Tipping Point (PG) [s]

4:00 NINE’s Afternoon News [s]

5:00 Millionaire Hot Seat [s]

6:00 NBN News [s]

7:00 A Current Affair (PG) [s]

7:30 The Block: Landscape Reveal (PG) [s]

8:50 Under Investigation: Girls Gone (M) [s]

9:50 Suburban Gangsters: The Gamblers (M) [s]

NINE News Late [s]

11:20 The Equalizer: Pilot (M v) [s]

12:10 Emergence: Killshot (Part 1) (M v) [s]

1:00 Hello SA (PG) [s]

1:30 Home Shopping

4:00 Religious Programs

4:30 A Current Affair (PG) [s]

6:00 The Talk [s]

7:00 Judge Judy (PG) [s]

7:30 The Bold And The Beautiful (PG) [s]

8:00 10 News First [s]

8:30 Studio 10 (PG) [s]

12:00 Dr Phil (M) [s]

1:00 The Traitors (PG) [s]

2:30 Entertainment Tonight [s]

3:00 Judge Judy (PG) [s]

3:30 Farm To Fork [s]

4:00 Everyday Gourmet [s]

4:30 The Bold And The Beautiful (PG) [s]

5:00 10 News First [s]

6:30 The Project (PG) [s]

7:30 The Traitors (M) [s]

8:40 Have You Been Paying Attention? (M) [s]

9:40 Ghosts: Jay’s Friends (M) [s]

10:10 Road To The Melbourne Cup Carnival [s]

11:10 The Project (PG) [s]

12:10 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (PG) [s]

1:00 Home Shopping

6:00 The Talk [s] 7:00 Studio 10 (PG) [s]

10:00 Horse Racing: Lexus Melbourne Cup Day *Live* From Flemington Racecourse [s]

5:30 10 News First [s]

6:30 The Project (PG) [s]

5:00 Worldwatch

9:05 Peer To Peer: Jean-Paul Agon/ Ken Griffin (PG)

10:05 Great Irish Interiors (PG)

11:05 Hugh’s Wild West (PG)

12:05 Worldwatch

2:05 Walking Hadrian’s Wall With Robson Green (PG)

2:55 Where Are You Really From? (PG)

3:30 Trampolining

3:35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG)

4:05 Portillo’s Greatest Railway Journeys: Railways And Imperialism (PG)

5:05 Jeopardy! (PG)

5:30 Letters And Numbers

6:00 Mastermind (PG)

6:30 SBS World News

7:30 Celebrity Letters And Numbers (M)

8:30 Scotland’s Extreme Medics (M l)

9:30 24 Hours In Emergency: Remembrance Day (M)

5:00 Worldwatch

9:00 Peer To Peer: Nancy Pelosi/ Randall Stephenson (PG)

10:00 Incredible Homes (PG)

11:00 Hugh’s Wild West (PG)

12:00 Worldwatch

4:10

5:00

7:30

8:00

8:30

9:30

10:20 People’s Republic Of Mallacoota: It’s A Part Of Us Now (M l) [s]

5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) [s]

6:00 Seven News [s]

7:00 Home And Away (PG) [s]

7:30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly (PG) [s]

8:30 The Good Doctor: Shrapnel (M v) [s]

9:30 10 Years Younger In 10 Days: Michelle And Mary (M) [s]

10:30 The Latest Seven News [s]

11:00 Chicago Fire: The Missing Piece (M) [s]

12:00 The Resident: Choice Words (M) [s]

6:00 Sunrise [s]

9:00 The Morning Show [s]

11:30 Seven Morning News [s]

12:00 Flower Shop Mystery: Dearly Depotted (M v) [s]

2:00 Police: Hour Of Duty (M v) [s]

3:00 The Chase UK (PG) [s]

4:00 Seven News At 4 [s]

5:00 The Chase Australia (PG) [s]

6:00 Seven News [s]

7:00 Home And Away (PG) [s]

7:30 Kitchen Nightmares Australia: Ccooks @ Corrigans (M) [s] Colin is called to Batemans Bay to help a resort owner with an angry chef and failing restaurant. But when Colin arrives, other major problems are uncovered.

8:40 Extreme Weddings Australia (PG) [s]

(PG)

(M l,s,v) (’15)

Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo, Ed Helms, Chris Hemsworth

7:30 The Traitors (M) [s] With a new Team Traitor recruit in the house, The Faithful scramble to uncover the defector. With names flying everywhere, knowing who to trust just got harder. Who will be thrown under the bus next?

8:40 The Cheap Seats (PG) [s]

9:40 NCIS: Unearth (M v) [s]

10:40 NCIS: The Helpers (M v) [s]

While investigating the death of an intruder at Quantico, Jimmy and Kasie are exposed to a deadly biotoxin.

11:30 The Project (PG) [s]

12:30 The Late Show (PG) [s]

Religious Programs

A Current Affair (PG) [s]

6:00 Today [s]

9:00 Today Extra [s]

11:30 NINE’s Morning News [s]

12:00 Movie: “The Baby Proposal” (PG) (’19) Stars: Alexandra Chando, Mike Merrill

1:50 Garden Gurus Moments [s]

2:00 Pointless (PG) [s]

3:00 Tipping Point (PG) [s]

4:00 NINE’s Afternoon News [s]

5:00 Millionaire Hot Seat [s]

6:00 NBN News [s]

7:00 A Current Affair (PG) [s]

7:30 Travel Guides: Louisiana (PG) [s]

8:30 Show Me The Money - The Melissa Caddick Con (M) [s]

9:30 Underbelly: Vanishing Act (M l,s,v) [s]

11:15 NINE News Late [s]

9:00 Fisk (MA15+) [s]

9:30 Would I Lie To You? (PG) [s]

10:00 The Witchfinder (MA15+) [s]

10:35 ABC Late News [s]

10:50 The Business [s]

9:40 Air Crash Investigations: Mission Disaster (PG) [s]

10:40 The Latest Seven News [s]

11:10 The Amazing Race (PG) [s]

12:30 Home Shopping

11:45 Family Law: I Now Pronounce You (M s) [s]

12:35 Tipping Point (PG) [s]

1:30 Home Shopping

Religious Programs

4:30 A Current Affair (PG) [s]

1:30 Home Shopping

4:30 CBS Mornings [s]

6:00 The Talk [s]

7:00 Judge Judy (PG) [s]

7:30 Entertainment Tonight [s]

8:00 10 News First [s]

8:30 Studio 10 (PG) [s]

12:00 Dr Phil (M) [s]

1:00 The Real Love Boat Australia (PG) [s]

2:00 Entertainment Tonight [s]

2:30 My Market Kitchen [s]

3:00 Judge Judy (PG) [s]

3:30 Farm To Fork [s]

4:00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield [s]

4:30 The Bold And The Beautiful (PG) [s]

5:00 10 News First [s]

6:30 The Project (PG) [s]

7:30 The Dog House Australia (PG) [s]

8:30 The Real Love Boat Australia (PG) [s]

10:00 My Life Is Murder (M) [s]

11:00 The Project (PG) [s]

12:00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (PG) [s]

2:05 Walking Hadrian’s Wall With Robson Green (PG)

3:00 Where Are You Really From? (PG)

3:35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG)

4:05 Portillo’s Greatest Railway Journeys: Railways And War (PG)

5:05 Jeopardy! (PG)

5:30 Letters And Numbers

6:00 Mastermind (PG)

6:30 SBS World News

7:30 Great Coastal Railway Journeys: Avonmouth To Six Bells/ Barry Island To Pyle (PG)

8:30 The Secret Business Of Breeding Humans (M)

9:30 The Real Mo Farah (M)

10:30 SBS World News Late

5:00 Worldwatch 9:00 Peer To Peer (PG)

10:00 Incredible Homes (PG)

11:00 Hugh’s Wild West (PG)

12:00 Worldwatch

2:05 Walking Hadrian’s Wall With Robson Green (PG)

3:00 Where Are You Really From? (PG)

3:35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG)

4:05 Portillo’s Greatest Railway Journeys: Railways And The Industrial Revolution (PG)

5:05 Jeopardy! (PG)

5:30 Letters And Numbers

6:00 Mastermind (PG)

6:30 SBS World News

7:30 Charles - The New King (M)

8:25 Stolen - Catching The Art Thieves (M)

9:30 Nine Perfect Strangers: Motherlode (MA15+)

10:35 SBS World News Late

11:05 No Man’s Land (MA15+) (In French/ Arabic/ English)

Worldwatch

9:00 Peer To Peer: Thomas Kaplan/ Melinda Gates (PG)

10:00 Incredible Homes (PG)

11:00 Hugh’s Wild West (PG)

12:00 Worldwatch

2:00 Apocalypse - The Second World War: Aggression (PG)

3:00 Where Are You Really From? (PG)

3:40 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw (PG)

4:10 Portillo’s Greatest Railway Journeys: Railways, Law And Order (PG)

5:05 Jeopardy! (PG)

5:30 Letters And Numbers

6:00 Mastermind (PG)

6:30 SBS World News

7:30 Dishing It Up (PG)

8:00 Guillaume’s Paris (PG)

8:35 World’s Most Scenic River Journeys: Portugal (PG)

9:30 The Handmaid’s Tale: Allegiance (PG)

10:30 SBS World News Late

Jazz in the Arboretum returns in November

After a three-year hiatus Pearl Beach Progress Association and the Pearl Beach Arboretum will bring back Jazz in the Arboretum next month, with tickets now on sale.

Australia’s first lady of Jazz, Emma Pask will be joined by virtuoso violinist Ian Cooper – a much-loved regular to our concert series.

Together they will pay homage to the music made famous by Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Carmen McRae, Stephane Grappelli and Django Reinhardt.

Pask has established herself as one of the country’s favourite

voices in jazz.

Her talent was first spotted by multi-instrumentalist James Morrison during one of his visits to high schools when she was just 16.

She has since performed internationally to audiences of up to 80,000 people and makes regular appearances on national television screens and radio.

Ian Cooper was awarded a scholarship to the NSW Conservatorium of Music at the age of eight and continued his training for the next 10 years.

During this time, he also studied the drums and played in numerous high-school bands.

He is a regular attraction at concert venues and festivals throughout Australia, Europe, Japan and New Zealand, and his dynamic and humorous performance draws on many musical styles.

He is well known for his highenergy gypsy, jazz, Irish and tango performances.

Performing along with Pask and Cooper will be the Swingin’ Jazz Combo, featuring leading jazz guitarist Jum Pennell, specialising in traditional and swinging jazz, award-winning jazz pianist and composer, Matt McMahon, jazz and rock double bassist, Phil Stack and indemand drummer Tim Firth.

Audience-goers are invited to

arrive early, bring a rug, chairs and picnic, and enjoy the unique experience in beautiful native bushland surroundings.

Proceeds from the concert will be used for maintenance and upkeep of the Pearl Beach Arboretum and the Pearl Beach Memorial Hall.

The show will be from 2.30pm-5pm on Saturday, November 12.

Bookings are available at https://jazz-in-the-arboretum. eventbrite.com.au with a 10 per cent discount for groups of 10 or more.

Boon for bonsai club

The Central Coast Bonsai Club has received $4,100 through the Federal Government’s 2021-22 Volunteer Grants program for essential equipment.

Member for Robertson, Gordon Reid, met with representative Denise Allen to learn more about the bonsai club.

“It was very insightful visiting

Denise at her property and seeing the magnificent bonsais that she has cultivated over the many years,” Reid said.

“Bonsais truly represent perseverance and commitment as they are very difficult to grow.

“The funding provided to the Central Coast Bonsai Club will ensure they can continue cultivating amazing bonsais and facilitate more members

into the club.

Allen says the funding will allow the club to buy muchneeded items to ensure its continual growth.

“The club will buy a printer, scanner, trollies, and shelving for extra storage capacity,” she said.

The Central Coast Bonsai Club is open to new members and meets every month at

Mingara Recreation Club.

The club hosts regular classes on how to grow and care for bonsais.

For more information email info@centralcoastbonsai.com. au or visit https://www. centralcoastbonsai.com.au/.

By Melanie Tait - directed by Jan Grounds

Source: Media release, Oct 24 Pearl Beach Progress Association

Emma Pask and Ian Cooper

Source: Media release, Oct 21 Member for Robertson, Gordon Reid

Boon for bonsai club

Big weekend at Narara Ecovillage

Narara Ecovillage will hold a free Swift Parrot workshop on Saturday, October 29, from 8.30amnoon as it proceeds with plans to create a corridor of winter food plants along Narara Creek for the critically endangered species.

The Swift Parrot migrates from Southern Australia in the winter searching for food.

An Ecovillage spokesperson said the corridor will be created and maintained with the rehabilitation of threatened Swamp Sclerophyll and rainforest plant communities.

Attendees will learn more about the endangered Swift Parrot and how to regenerate habitat.

They will explore the corridor habitat along Narara Creek and help create habitat to provide winter food for them as they migrate north, with support from bush regenerators from

the Community environment Network.

“We are removing a forest of young privet, using the wonderful Tree Poppers, and planting up to 290 plants, including 80 Swamp Mahogany (Eucalyptus robusta),” the

spokesperson said.

“Swamp Mahoganies produce prolific nectar in the winter and help sustain mammals such as Sugar Gliders and flying foxes as well as parrots and honeyeaters.

“On the day, we will have an

introductory chat about the project, including why we are doing this here, what work has already been completed, and the expected outcomes of the day and in the future.

“We’ll walk across to the site for a weeding with Tree Poppers

and tree planting demonstration and then get into the activity in groups.”

Morning tea will be supplied by the village’s organic coffee cart and the group will be supported by bush regenerators from the Community Environmental Network.

A Revegetation Guide and a Swift Parrot Guide will be provided by Local Land Services

Attendees have also have an opportunity to find out how Local Land Services can assist on individual properties.

The event has been made possible by grant funding from Local Land Services

Attendees should bring a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent, sturdy shoes or gumboots, a wet weather jacket and a water bottle.

Although the event is free, only 30 spots are available.

Registrations are available at https://swiftparrot-oct2022.

Toni Childs to perform at Art House

Emmy-winning and multi Grammy-nominated recording artist Toni Childs will give a two-hour Music Retrospective at The Art House, Wyong, on October 29 at 7.30pm.

Childs will celebrate her life’s musical works, performing hits and fan favourites from Union, House of Hope, the Woman’s Boat and Keep the Faith. The second half of the show will be an introduction to her new music, from the albums It’s All a Beautiful Noise and Citizens of the Planet.

Known for her powerful voice, inspiring independent spirit and crafted storytelling, Childs has fans in over 50 countries around the world and has produced a list of international hits such as: Don’t Walk Away, Stop Your Fussin’, Walk and Talk Like Angels, Zimbabwe, Where’s the Ocean, Many Rivers to Cross, I’ve Got to Go Now and Because You’re Beautiful.

She has opened for Bob Dylan and performed duets with greats such as Al Green and Peter Gabriel.

REVIEW

This

Alice Stern lives in a small apartment in Brooklyn New York.

Her father is Leonard Stern, who is famous for writing a science fiction book called Time Brothers, which is still very popular years after it was written and became a television series.

Writing that book meant that Leonard could afford to send Alice to Belvedere, a private school “one of the most prestigious in the city.”

Alice went to school there since grade five and now, as an adult she works there as an administrator.

lilregie.com/booking/ attendees/new.

The Ecovillage will also hold an open day on Sunday, October 30, from 10:30am-1pm at a cost of $15.

A talk and a tour will show what Narara Ecovillage is all about, and demonstrate how residents are putting ideas around ecological, social and economic potential into action. These include shared food growing, natural retreats and permaculture spaces, shared community and workplaces and examples of highly efficient low-carbon homes now and in the next stage.

Closed shoes and all-weather clothing are recommended, and pets are not welcome.

Bookings are available on the Ecovillage website.

The coming years will see the wider release of the two new albums.

Both releases are a part of two unique 3D Mapping animated shows – two hours of music, animation and high tech audience engagement.

There is also a limited number of Meet and Greet packages available for the show.

Full details are on the Art House website.

Author: Emma Straub Publisher: Penguin

Alice’s mother, Serena left the family when Alice was six to go find herself, so Leonard had sole custody.

Alice grew up in her father’s house on Pomander Walk in New York City.

As an aside, I googled Pomander Walk and I never knew there was anything like it in New York, it is so quaint, like a tiny village street surrounded by high-rises.

Back to the story ... Leonard is now in hospital dying and while Alice visited every day during school break, she can only make a few days a week now that she school is back in session.

Alice’s boyfriend is Matt, and he lives on the upper West Side, he is doing pretty well for himself.

“They weren’t a great couple, Alice knew, not like some of her friends and acquaintances, the ones who posted rhapsodic Instagram paeans every birthday and anniversary.”

But after a year they have gotten used to each other.

One of Alice’s duties at Belvedere is to interview prospective students, and their parents, to see if they have what it takes to be a part of the Belvedere world.

There are so many applicants but only a few places.

Today Alice has an interview with Raphael Joffey, she purposely scheduled this meeting for the end of the day hoping that there would be a

greater chance for Raphael’s father, Tommy Joffey, to attend.

Alice and Tommy were students together at Belvedere and Alice still carries a torch for him and thinks how different her life would have been if she ended up with Tommy.

On the night of Alice’s fortieth birthday, she ends up alone getting drunk at a bar from her youth, Matryoshka, a small dark dingy Russian themed bar in a subway station.

She gets so drunk she decides to sleep it off in the garden shed at her father’s house and, when she wakes up, she is sixteen years old on the day of her birthday.

What would she do over again if she had to?

Turns out she will sleep with Tommy, because that is the thing that went wrong in her life.

Usually, it is the people you sleep with that you wish you could undo.

When she wakes up again, she is married to Tommy and they have children, and she is living in one of the best buildings in New York.

Turns out that is not the life she wants.

Let’s try that again.

Sleep, wake up sixteen years old and warn your father not to smoke.

But he still ends up sick.

Darn it, how can she fix everything?

Sleep, wake up, try it again.

There are some very pithy observations in this story and, as one who lived in New York, I loved all the references.

It was almost an ode to New York City, however around three quarters of the way through the story seemed a little repetitive and I got a bit bored.

Kim Reardon The Reluctant Book Critic

Source: Media release, Oct 17 Narara Ecovillage

The open day will feature a talk and a tour

Source: Media release, Oct 24 The Art House

Toni Childs

Photo Rae Mitchell

Business & Property

Coast gets $17M for Food Manufacturing & Innovation Hub

After a decade of planning, partnerships and lobbying Frank Sammut of Central Coast Industry Connect (CCIC) is cautiously optimistic about the Federal Budget allocation of $17.2 million to build its Food Manufacturing and Innovation Hub for the region.

Sammut’s CCIC as the lead manufacturing industry body was pleased to see that the promised $17.2M had been allocated in the budget as

indicated by Labor during the election period. Sammut said:

“The Coast has a strong Food and beverage manufacturing presence contributing $1.4B in output to the region.

“This [announcement] is a key element in the establishment of a Food and beverage manufacturing ecosystem in the region”

A strategic business case for the hub was developed by CCIC late last year with the assistance of Food Innovation Australia Limited and major industry

partner TrendPac.

The business case had support from regional stakeholders including Regional Development Australia Central Coast, the University of Newcastle and major food manufacturing companies Sara Lee, Mars Food, Sanitarium and Agrana Australia.

The project became an election commitment on a rainy day in May by the now Federal Labor government after support was given for the

project, from Federal MP for Dobell Emma McBride and then Shadow Minister for Industry and Innovation, Ed Husic.

Dobell MP Emma McBride was beaming after the budget announcement saying to CCN “we are so pleased that in the first term of an Albonese Federal Government to be able to confirm our commitment to the Central Coast.

“This is something is very exciting for the Central Coast and that we have been working

with the sector on for such a long time”

McBride said “this will create 200 plus local jobs in growing community we know this is good for the local economy”

Regional Development Australia CEO and Director of Regional Development, John Mouland, says the hub will build on the regional collaboration and strong foundations laid by all organisations involved with the delivery of the Food Innovation Initiative to date.

Mouland said “RDACC has long championed the Central Coast as a premier food region. Back in 2018, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was established between RDACC, CCIC and the University of Newcastle.”

The construction of the hub is expected to commence early in 2023.

See our website and YouTube channel for a full video interview of this story.

David Abrahams

Ecovillage meets another sustainability goal

Narara Ecovillage has reached another milestone towards sustainable living with the installation of a large solar-powered community battery and supporting smart grid.

It enables the village of 100plus residents to generate, manage and store solar power during the day and use it at night and on cloudy days.

Co-Chair of NEV Power and ecovillage resident, Jon Ellis said that with the help of a grant from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), the village residents were able to connect their solar panels to the battery in December 2021 and becomes almost self-sufficient for electricity.

“We’re so excited to be able to achieve our goal to have a fully carbon neutral energy supply here in the village,” he said.

“Since the installation, an outage on the local network at

night saw our homes powered by the battery while nearby residencies had a black-out.”

The village’s 300 KW of solar panels on its homes and community buildings feed surplus energy into the 437kWh Hitachi Energy battery, which gets fully charged by 11am on a sunny day.

Residents are then able to power their homes at night using battery power rather than drawing from the mains electricity network.

The village is a smart grid, with all homes and buildings connected into a micro electricity grid so they can share the solar power and

battery storage.

On sunny days, solar power not used by homes and offices gets stored in the battery, and any excess is fed into the national electricity grid.

This means the village has a fully carbon neutral energy supply, helped by the fact that

the village is not connected to the gas network.

NEV Power Co-Chair Dave Parris said that as the ecovillage continued to grow and new homes were built, more solar panels would join the micro grid and help charge the battery.

“It feels great to know that we’re not adding carbon emissions to the atmosphere and our excess solar energy helps the wider community access solar as well,” he said.

The launch of the battery on Friday, October 21 was attended by Federal Member for Robertson, Dr Gordon Reid and Gosford MP Leisl Tesch.

Dr Reid outlined the Powering Australia Energy policy, noting that the government would be “investing heavily in renewable energy including projects such as community batteries”.

Also in attendance was Dr Alice Howe from Central Coast Council and Leon Chanter from ARENA, who were instrumental

in supporting the Ecovillage smart grid and battery implementation through a $1.3M grant.

Chanter said that community energy resources, microgrids and batteries were going to play an important role in the transition of our electricity system by supporting the grid, improving community resilience and ultimately leading to the decarbonisation of the electricity grid.

Stephen Sproul, representing Hitachi Energy who supplied the BESS and microgrid controls, said microgrids such as this were becoming ever more important because they battled climate change on two fronts by enabling the use of 100 percent clean energy locally and also add grid resiliency to protect against more frequent and extreme weather.

Source: Media release, Oct 25 Narara Ecovillage

Artist’s impression of the new Hub

Federal Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid addresses the gathering at the launch

Sprucing up our town centres

Central Coast Council is on a mission to improve the look of businesses around the region, with applications for its Façade Improvement Support Program set to open on November 1.

The program will provide $120,000 to eligible Central Coast businesses and commercial property owners to enhance their building facades and improve accessibility with dollar-for-dollar matched funding.

Council’s Director of

Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith, said the program is being piloted at four town centres on the Coast and will contribute to town centre revitalisation and support visitation.

“A total of $120,000 in funding will be available to provide financial assistance to businesses and commercial property owners located in the town centres of Wyong, Gosford, The Entrance and Toukley,” Smith said.

“This funding will support the enhancement of facades, and improve access, aesthetics, and overall visitor experience.

“The dollar-for-dollar

matched funding will be provided for the cost of works, labour and materials to a maximum value of $5,000 (ex GST) per property.

“This is a pilot program and if it is successful may be able to be rolled out to other town centres across the Coast in the future.”

Administrator, Rik Hart, said Council’s Façade Improvement Support Program builds the community’s capacity to take part in revitalisation across the Coast.

“This funding is a chance for

our businesses and commercial property owners to take part in revitalising our town centres, by updating their façades and improving accessibility to enable all members of the community to enjoy the amenities on offer,” he said.

Applications close at midnight on November 30.

To review the funding guidelines and to apply visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/ grants.

Online interactive map of infrastructure works

earmarked include:

of the Visitor

at The Entrance; Renovations at Toowoon Bay Holiday Park; Central Coast Airport upgrades in Warnervale; Major upgrades to the Charmhaven and Gwandalan Sewage Treatment Plants; Shared pathway constructions at Tuggerawong Foreshore and Magenta;

Link and Pin puts out call for help

As popular Woy Woy café Link and Pin struggles to stay afloat following COVID lockdowns and severe weather events over the past two years, the owners have started a Gofundme appeal, asking customers to help cover immediate bills.

Mark Fraser, who co-owns the café with Adam Brzowzski, said they had taken over the enterprise almost two years ago.

“Soon after we took over, we were hit hard with COVID-19 restrictions,” Fraser said.

“Then came the severe storms and a tree collapsed onto our rear beer garden.

“We got to the point where we needed some help – we are certainly not alone, with many

other businesses feeling the pinch but we thought we’d put it out there.”

Fraser said he had been

“blown away” by the response so far, with the $20,000 goal set for the fundraiser exceeded within a week.

“It is amazing to see the support we have had,” he said.

“The customers have rallied around us and while it won’t solve all our problems it will pay some immediate bills.”

Fraser said the business had lost around $200,000 in the past two years, with little Government support and rent, band fees, suppliers and salaries still having to be paid.

“It has been a priority for us to make sure the staff have continually been paid,” he said.

Fraser said the café would

push through the financial difficulties.

“We are one of the very few venues offering live original music in a courtyard setting –and the bands love coming here too.

“We support our local young bands and it’s amazing to see the talent here on the Coast.

“We provide an important and much-needed space for original artists, who are still recovering from the two

lockdowns in NSW, and the recent floods.

“We’ve had more than 500 bands come through and have seen tens of thousands of patrons.”

The venue offers live music on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, with other activities including music trivia, poetry readings and open mic nights.

“We have been struggling to stay afloat for a while – forgoing wages for the directors and bookers for the past few weeks so we can pay our suppliers, staff and bands,” Fraser said.

He said he and Brzowzski had exhausted their life savings with no more cash left tot inject into the business.

“We want to continue to bring excellent alternative live music, food and beverages and

Cemetery, holiday park and community facility upgrades at Norah Head; and multiple road works.

The Capital Works Program Map makes it easy for residents to find works planned or underway in their area.

Source: Media release, Oct 27 Central Coast Council

atmosphere to the Central Coast, but truly need a helping hand to dig us out of the cashflow hole.”

Fraser said he remained confident about the future, with bands booked through until March next year and a major weekend of celebration planned to celebrate Link and Pin’s second birthday on December 10-11.

“This is just a bump in the road, but it’s a pretty huge one,” he said.

Donations can be made at https://www.gofundme.com/f/ please-help-link-pin-to-keepafloat?utm_ source=facebook&utm_ medium=social&utm_ campaign=p_cp+share-sheet.

Terry Collins

Source: Media release, Oct 24 Central Coast Council

Gosford is one of four town centres which will pilot the program

Owner Mark Fraser with head chef

Pham at Link and Pin

State government transfers Peat Island ownership to Darkinjung Land Council

The NSW Government confirmed a landmark agreement to transfer ownership of Peat Island and a portion of the mainland foreshore at Mooney Mooney on the Hawkesbury River to the Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council (DLALC) on Thursday morning, October 27.

Minister for Planning and Minister for Homes, Anthony Roberts, said the transfer marked an historic moment that recognises the cultural connection of the land to the local Aboriginal community.

“The NSW Government is rightfully returning Peat Island to the original custodians of this land to ensure the rich heritage of this place is preserved and is able to be celebrated,” Roberts said.

“Moving forward, we will work with the DLALC to help realise its vision for Peat Island to be used in ways that will create economic and cultural opportunities for the local Aboriginal population and for all Australians.”

“It’s not just a historic occasion for Darkinjung but a historic occasion that I think people will look back into the future for all Aboriginal Land Councils, indeed for all aboriginal people”

Roberts said the transfer of Peat Island fulfilled an important promise of the Government.

“During the next 12 months, works to be completed include the demolition of derelict structures to address significant health and safety risks, along with clearing of vegetation and clean-up of debris on the island.”

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch, said the transfer highlighted the Government’s ongoing commitment to acknowledging the importance of Country to Aboriginal communities.

“This agreement paves the way for the local Aboriginal community to prepare planning proposals for this land to become a rich embodiment of local Aboriginal heritage,” Crouch said.

“Back in January, the

Government stated its intent to transfer Peat Island back to the local Aboriginal community, and I’m delighted that today this has been achieved,” he said. “This demonstrates the Government’s strong commitment to preserving the historic legacy both Indigenous

and non-Indigenous heritage of places like Peat Island.

DLALC Chief Executive Officer, Brendan Moyle, said the transfer represented a moment of iconic significance for the local Darkinjung people.

“Too often, tourists from around Australia and the world

bypass Sydney to learn more about ancient Aboriginal dreaming stories and practices in places like the Northern Territory and elsewhere in Northern Australia,” Moyle said.

“This transfer will allow us to work with the NSW Government

to create an internationally renowned place where the ancient cultures and creation stories can be celebrated right here on Sydney’s doorstep.”

DLALC Chairperson, Barry ‘BJ’ Duncan, said the transfer was achieved following a long period of fruitful engagement with the Government.

“DLALC is proud of this historic transfer,” he said.

“This will truly be one of the jewels in the crown of Land Rights in NSW and will help all Australians to embrace our ancient cultures, lore and practices in a stunning space that also recognises the contemporary history of what we now call Australia.”

The land transfer has been negotiated by Property and Development NSW, on behalf of the NSW Government, with the DLALC.

See the digital version of this story for a video of the event.

Sources:

Minister Anthony Roberts announcing the Peat Island land transfer

CEN wants answers over Doyalson land sale

The Community Environment Network (CEN) has called on the NSW Department of Planning and Environment to explain how it will protect environmentally sensitive land at Doyalson which is currently the subject of a 40-day stop work order following alleged clearing of native vegetation.

The Department issued the Stop Work Order in September following reports of unauthorised clearing in a conservation zone under the Biodiversity Conservation Act, after the matter was referred to it by Central Coast Council.

An investigation is currently underway.

“CEN called for the withdrawal from sale of this land when it was included in Tranche 1 of Central Coast Council’s asset selloff program,” CEN Chair, Gary Chestnut, said.

“We have been aware of its environmental importance for many years but there was no public consultation for Tranche 1 and when we alerted former Interim Administrator, Dick Persson, to its environmental

value, he refused to withdraw it from sale.

“We have corresponded with Administrator Rik Hart about the environmental importance of this land which contains Endangered Ecological Communities and a wetland that is of substantial importance to the health of Tuggerah Lakes.

“He did not listen and went ahead with its disposal as ‘surplus to needs’.

Chestnut said CEN asked Mr

Hart, acting CEO of Council when the executive leadership team decided which land to sell off, if he was aware of its environmental value when that decision was made.

“We have asked why Council broke its promise not to sell any environmental land.”

“We await answers to those important questions.

“CEN then learned that Council had been investigating a Conservation Agreement with the Biodiversity Conservation

Trust of NSW to protect the land (before it was put on the market).

“We know it has been subject to a biodiversity assessment, but Council has not released details of its conservation value, which we estimate could be as much as $20M.

Chestnut said the “tale of woe” continued with the sale of the land for at least $1.5M less than it was purchased for by the former Wyong Council in 2014.

“Council also ignored the advice of its own valuer who recommended a conservation assessment to boost the sale price of the land.

“Now the Department of Planning and Environment has been forced to intervene when it was discovered that clearing of native vegetation was occurring on the site.

“We believe it is in the public interest for DPE to explain what further action it will take at the end of the current stop work order.

“Will the new owner be required to remediate the site and how can we be assured that native vegetation will be protected into the future?

A Department of Planning and Environment spokesperson confirmed a Stop Work Order was issued in September under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 halting any further clearing while an investigation is undertaken.

“As the investigation is ongoing, the Department cannot provide further comment,” the spokesperson said.

A Council spokesperson said the investigation by the NSW

Department of Planning and Environment’s Biodiversity and Conservation Division followed an initial complaint made to Council.

“Council immediately responded to the complaint and after identifying the matter may relate to endangered species, referred the matter to BCD that day,”the spokesperson said.

“The site was formerly owned by Council and was sold as part of its asset disposal program.

“Details of the sale process are provided in the report to the Ordinary Council meeting of 26 July 2022 (page 61).

“All enquiries regarding the current investigation should be directed to BCD.”

Six Cities consultation too rushed, says CEN

The public consultation on the Six Cities Region Discussion Paper has been a political sham, lacking substance and devoid of any real community engagement, says the Community Environment Network (CEN).

CEN Chair, Gary Chestnut, said the process had been too rushed.

“The discussion paper may only be 68 pages long, but it is the absence of detail on how this ‘vision’ for a mega city stretching from the Illawarra to the Hunter will deliver on its promise of ‘local liveability’ that has many in the community scratching their heads,” Chestnut said.

“It’s an attractive document but the Minister for Infrastructure, Cities and Active Transport, Rob Stokes, surely won’t be comfortable with the incredibly low level of community engagement demonstrated by the live statistics on greatercities.au and the NSW Government’s Have Your Say website.

“The discussion paper consultation period is due to end on October 30.

“There are less than 60

comments on the 94 ideas included on the “brainstorming” page, which can hardly be considered adequate community consultation from a population of six million.

“The document and website promise more consultation following the release of plans for each city, but this process already feels like a run-away train and the community has been left standing at the station.”

Chestnut said that “reading between the lines” the Six Cities Region is about the NSW Government overpowering local communities, local councils and local development controls to “shoehorn in enough new housing for an additional two million people, along a climate-impacted coastline by 2040”.

“The discussion paper acknowledges the risks and reality of the climate crisis including heat waves, bushfires and floods but offers very few solutions.”

“It is silent on some very real issues already confronting the regions the NSW Government is now calling its Six Cities –sea level rise, coastal erosion and species extinction due to habitat loss from land clearing.

“This silence is an indicator that the Six Cities strategy completely lacks common sense, which may be why Minister Stokes and Chief Commissioner Geoff Roberts have opted for such low-key consultation on the discussion paper.

“Perhaps they are more worried about their developer mates and political donors than about the quality of life for those living in these new ‘cities’.

“We have been told the Six Cities Region strategy has bipartisan support and will remain in place if there is a change of government in NSW in March 2023.

CEN has written to both Minister Stokes and Chief Commissioner Roberts asking for the consultation on the discussion paper to run until the government moves into caretaker mode prior to the March election and for each of the six City Commissioners to hold public workshops, drop-in sessions and webinars on the discussion paper to ensure as many people are able to comment as possible.

Primary Source: Media release, Oct 25,

Community Environment Network

Source: Media release, Nov 26 Community Environment Network Media statement, Oct 26 Department of Planning and Environment Media statement, Oct 27 Central Coast Council

A portion of the property at Thompson Vale Rd, Doyalson

New plans for Avoca Beach theatre revamp

Avoca Beach Picture Theatre owners Norman and Beth Hunter have revealed their revamped plan to upgrade the iconic cinema, with submissions on the latest Development Application (DA) to be accepted until November 11.

The new plans see a retention of the approved three cinema spaces but with reduced overall seating and revamped facades.

Beth Hunter said new artist’s impressions of the revitalised theatre, resulting from a collaboration with Johnson Projects and CKDS Architects, were very different to past images, with internal and external changes to originally approved plans.

“(We are) delivering an

exciting cultural hub continuing to serve our community for another 70 years,” Hunter said.

“Internally, the changes mean there will be a smaller number of people in the building as a whole; externally, we have focussed on mirroring the natural elements of Avoca Beach whilst giving a nod to a bygone era of cinema.”

Hunter said the revamp had been designed with environmental consciousness, with cross ventilation from bifold doors, a light-coloured roof and solar panels.

“The jewel in the crown of our environmental package is geothermal heating and cooling which utilises the earth’s stored temperature to heat and cool buildings, reducing energy usage by 70

per cent,” she said.

Hunter said native plants that need little water and will thrive in the salty air had been chosen to embellish the project, with landscaping providing a gentle, everchanging natural environment.

“Inspired by Avoca’s famous rock platform and the beautiful trees around Avoca Lake, we have connected with the natural materials of (the) area by featuring this same coloured stone in our facade, echoing Norman’s family’s outdoor cinema stone fence and repeating the timbers of the lake in beautiful wood work,” she said.

A curved interior staircase will be reminiscent of the golden age of cinema.

Upstairs there will be a piano bar come cinema, with seating for 100, which can be used as a live music space.

Downstairs will feature a small café where the doors can be thrown open into the garden.

The walls will be moveable, so the cafe can become part of a new 54-seat theatre, offering a gold-class experience of being served a meal as patrons enjoy the movie.

Downstairs will also incorporate the 280-seat existing cinema and a third, 32-seat cinema.

To the rear of the theatre, residential housing facing the eastern end of Hunter Park and onto Vine St will feature external colours, materials and textures carefully chosen to complement

each other.

A Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) lodged with the DA says a number of factors have led to a need for the amendments.

The COVID pandemic has accelerated the need for small, independent cinema operators to reconsider their business model, with a need to provide a range of theatre sizes and experiences, it says.

While the new DA retains the same number of screens previously approved, there is a reduction in overall seating numbers.

“The proposed modifications to the approved development are aimed at providing a more efficient, liveable and viable development, whilst continuing

to retain the original appearance of the Avoca Beach Theatre,” it says.

The proposed amendments will result in minor variations to the approved height and floor space ration I(FSR).

The SEE says the updated design aims to ensure that the street frontage has an appropriate level of activation and that there is an attractive presentation to Hunter Park.

“The new arrangements ensure that the majority of the bulk is concentrated in the centre of the building, thus avoiding long lengths of blank facades, and ensuring the perimeter is punctuated where possible with glazing elements,” it says.

Toukley boarding house plan back for 6th time

The owners of a former nursing home at Toukley are making a sixth attempt to have a boarding house approved on the site at 51 Peel St.

Amendments to the development proposal have been lodged with Central Coast Council, following a conciliation conference in July called by the Land and Environment Court.

New information submitted on October 19 is contained in updated documents such as the Noise Impact Assessment, Acoustic Assessment, Social Impact Assessment, Architectural Plan and Plan of Management.

Property owners, operating under the company name Seranin Group, want to convert the vacant former nursing home to a 55-room boarding house for up to 93 people, predominantly males, but with only 32 parking spaces.

Over the years, the proposal has been amended and scaled back, Council has received hundreds of objections, and in 2020 the Local Planning Panel

rejected it for several reasons but basically because it was substandard.

This new amended development application number 222 is open for public comment until Friday, November 18.

Eileen Chijoff says two particular clauses added to the Plan of Management will cause further issues with the wider Toukley community.

The Plan says in clause 9.7 that residents (of the boarding house) who are not allocated an onsite parking space will be encouraged to park at nearby public parking areas such as Toukley Lookout or Osborne Park off Peel St.

“While legislation does not exist to stop anyone from using the public parking areas, utilising Osborne Park as an overflow parking solution for the proposed boarding house would impact the availability of parking space for Coast Guard volunteers, users of the boat shed and users of the playground equipment,” Chijoff said.

“Also, the so-called Toukley Lookout is an unsealed area on the side of Peel St where drivers can pull off to the side of the road to look at the view of the lake.

“There is room for about two or three cars and if Toukley Lookout is used as an overflow parking solution it also impacts the availability of its use to visitors to the area.”

Chijoff also wants to alert the community to clause 10.2 in

the Plan of Management which refers to quarterly meetings between the boarding house manager, community liaison committee, police and Council to ensure the boarding house is a “good neighbour” and to address any emerging problems.

“The expectation that local people would volunteer their time to be part of this strategy is an encroachment on their peaceful existence,” she said.

“This is an entitled attitude by whoever devised this strategy that the onus be placed on the local community to monitor the behaviour of boarding house residents for the purpose of proactively deterring any issues arising.

“This is a blatant overreach by the owner/developer who sets out to make a financial gain by conscripting volunteer services of local residents as a means of ensuring the smooth

operation of their profit-making enterprise,” Chijoff said.

Some time ago residents formed a facebook group called Concerned Residents of Proposal for Boarding, Toukley, to share information and present a united front in opposing this proposal.

Residents have opposed the boarding house mainly because of a poor management model, over-development, wellbeing impacts on mental health and isolation leading to escalation of anti-social behaviour, too far from services, traffic and parking problems and pedestrian safety along the narrow ill-formed Peel St.

“The proposed large scale boarding house would introduce an institution or ghetto-like environment that the community does not need or want,” Chijoff said.

The amended development application number 222 is open for public comment until Friday, November 18.

Sue Murray

Terry Collins

How the theatre will look at night

An artist’s impression of the new-look theatre

Concept drawing of entry to proposed boarding house

Kids’ jobs can teach them about life and money

When I was 14, I got my first holiday job in a light-fitting factory and so I could be at work at 7.30am, I walked six blocks to catch a bus in the dark, then another 10 blocks at the other end.

Every holiday I had some sort of job: I worked in a restaurant kitchen and a kiosk selling ice-creams and snacks, I delivered the local newspaper on foot and, when I turned 17, I worked at a suburban pub, cleaning the rooms used by travelling salesmen.

My partner started working at 14 in a whitegoods factory, then in the loading dock and later the lay-by area of a depart ment store.

We did all this while we went to school, before we started further studies

In contrast, my kids didn’t really start part-time work until the end of school, partly be cause of their busy school lives and partly because it was hard for inexperienced teenagers to get jobs then.

Not so anymore: there are signs everywhere saying “staff wanted” - sometimes “no experi ence necessary”.

It is a perfect opportunity for your kids to get a part-time job.

Watch out for bad bosses

But you want an employer who does the right thing by them, paying the correct wage and loading set down in the award.

Once my kids finished school, they signed up with a hospitality employer, got their responsible service of alcohol certificate and did a barista course.

Still, it was hard to find a job if you didn’t have experience.

My older daughter had some shocking employers, who made the most of an abundance of international students and back packers looking for work.

One employer didn’t pay her and one cried poor while the amount he owed her snow balled, making it hard for her to leave the job.

Eventually he paid in dribs and drabs because she turned

up when he was behind the counter asking for her pay.

Another owner, who was never around the business, underpaid his staff, and she never received her money.

But with so many low-skilled job vacancies in retail and hospitality, exacerbated by the pandemic, young people now have some leverage to be paid appropriately – they just need to check if their employer is doing the right thing.

Having a part-time job is a for mative experience, broadening my narrow world when I was 14.

I learnt a lot about people and met some who inspired me among the not-so-nice ones, I picked up skills and it helped me decide what I did and didn’t want to do with my life.

And, of course, I learnt about money and it gave me indepen dence from a controlling father.

Start searching early Even though the holidays are several weeks away, it’s best for kids to start searching early so they will have more choices and a hopefully a job close to home, so parents aren’t driving them

It’s official: women are more generous givers

Putting your hand in your pocket is always an admira ble act, but some of us are more charitable than others.

Australian Red Cross figures for the period between January 2019 and April 2022 reveal that women edged out men when it came to donations ($91.37 mil lion versus $88.96 million).

Income also proved not to be an indicator of generosity, with people in low- and highincome areas giving just as much relative to their area’s median income.

“This has been the case throughout 2020 and 2021, despite women and people on lower incomes being dispro

portionally affected by the pandemic, the rising cost of living and slow wage growth,” says Poppy Brown, state and territory operations director for the Red Cross.

Brown also noted that resi dents in the ACT and Toowoom ba, in Queensland, were among the most giving Australians.

“The ACT features as the most generous of all the states and territories, with the highest number of donors and donations per capita, but it’s the city of Toowoomba that stands out for its numbers of donors and dona tions, with 2873 people giving a total of $1.135 million.”

TOM WATSON

to and from work, especially for shifts as short as three hours - the minimum allowed by parttime work rules.

Ideally, you want kids to organise their own work, but if it is their first job parents can play an important role in helping them to apply.

Talk to them about what to put in a resume and who to ask for references and prompt them to organise their tax file number.

Kids need to have a bank ac count for their pay, plus a super fund, as the rules have changed so that now even those earning

less than $450 a month are to be paid superannuation (select a low-fee fund with consistent performance).

Keep an eye out at the local shops for any vacancies.

Word-of-mouth is often the best place to start, so try asking relatives, neighbours, other par ents, teachers and businesses about work.

Next, try the online career sections of retailers, fast food chains and cafes.

If your child has any special talents, go for a job that is right up their alley.

For example, a friend’s creative daughter who loved flowers approached florists and found a job that she enjoyed and kept for a couple of years.

Kids under 14 often can’t get a “real job”, but there are other ways to earn money, such as babysitting or doing choreswashing the car or mowing the lawn - around the house or a neighbour’s house.

SUSAN HELY

More uni places available for Coasties

The University of Newcastle (UON) has been allocated 967 additional university places to train more teachers, nurses, and engineers across Newcastle and the Central Coast with a funding injection of more than $28M.

The allocation is part of the Federal Government’s commitment to providing 20,000 extra university places across Australia to train students from disadvantaged backgrounds in areas where there’s a skills shortage.

The additional places will be allocated to students who experience challenges when it comes to accessing

education including those from poorer backgrounds, Indigenous Australians, and students from rural and remote Australia.

The move has been welcomed by Member for Dobell, Emma McBride, and Member for Robertson, Gordon Reid.

“We have a skills crisis on the Coast and across Australia, particularly in health, and we want to encourage local students to upskill and train at a university level, so they can help build our workforce,” McBride said.

“This announcement will help disadvantaged students on the Coast, so they can study nursing, teaching,

podiatry or engineering at university and take up a rewarding career in these industries.”

Reid said the announcement delivered on an election commitment to fund additional university places to address the skills shortage.

“This is a great opportunity for students across the Coast who would like to study nursing and midwifery, education, podiatry, and psychology,” he said.

The nationwide commitment will see an investment of up to $485.5M over the next four years.

Understanding effects of bullying on people living with disability

A free program for Central Coast schools is helping children understand the impacts of bullying on people living with disability.

Maree Jenner is a person of short stature, commonly referred to as dwarfism, and works for the not-for-profit organisation, Social Futures, an NDIS Partner in the community.

She delivers the Different on the Outside, Same on the Inside program to primary and high schools in the region.

The program aims to remove social barriers and encourage inclusion for people with disability.

A video about the program was launched ahead of Dwarfism Day on October 25 – a day for raising awareness and challenging barriers for people who have dwarfism.

“Research shows that children with disability are at increased risk of being bullied,” Jenner said.

“Bullying can include making fun of kids because of their differences, and sadly the child doing the bullying is usually not fully aware of the hurt they are causing.

“The Different on the Outside, Same on the Inside program helps educate children and teachers about the steps they can take to be more inclusive of everyone.”

Jenner said a lack of peer support could contribute to children with disabilities being at higher risk of bullying and feeling excluded from everyday

activities.

“Having friends who are caring and supportive and willing to speak out against bullying helps keep all children safe,” she said.

“Our program encourages everyone in the school community to think about actions they can take to ensure every student feels safe, included and valued.

“School supports, like a buddy-system, help students with disabilities participate and succeed at school – and that includes making meaningful friendships.”

Jenner said engaging students in activities in which everyone has a role helps to build an inclusive supportive environment.

“Social Futures also has programs visiting schools teaching inclusion through disability sports like blind cricket and wheelchair basketball, helping to break down barriers and unhelpful attitudes,” she said.

National President of Short Statured People of Australia, Sam Millard, supports the program.

“The relationship people have with physical difference is shaped in those formative first years, so having someone come in and help educate school-aged kids has a huge flow-on effect,” Millard said.

“It is wonderful that students have the chance to meet someone like Maree, so they are able to say, ‘I’ve met Maree; she’s short-statured, and in some ways different to me, but

then we have this in common.’

“Things as simple as that can shape someone’s perception of difference.”

Jenner also explains to school students how spaces and

approaches to everyday activities can be adapted so they are accessible to everyone.

“I describe from my own lived experience what it is like physically navigating a world

that is built for people of average height,” she said.

“Adaptive strategies and equipment are enormously helpful in providing universal access to buildings and

opportunities for work, study and social participation.

“For example, at my workplace I have a specialised chair that enables me to use a standard desk.”

Jenner tells students that people with disabilities have incredible potential, but that it is often the attitudes and behaviours of other people that present the real barriers to inclusion.

“Young people are open to new ways of thinking and have questions about disability and are curious about difference.”

“Having contact with me and becoming familiar with disability helps to remove awkwardness and makes them feel more comfortable around people with disability.”

The program has been delivered to more than 1000 children on the Central Coast and the positive response of the students has been overwhelming.

“Children with disability approach me after the program to thank me for coming and teachers are raising access and inclusion improvements in school leadership meetings,” she said.

Schools interested in participating in the program can contact Social Futures on 1800 522 679.

The video can be viewed at https://socialfutures.org.au/ video/different-on-theoutside-same-on-the-insidemaree jenner/.

Source: Media release, Oct 24, 2022 Member for Dobell, Emma McBride

Member for Robertson, Gordon Reid, UON Vice Chancellor, Alex Zelinsky, Member for Dobell, Emma McBride, and Professor Michael Bowyer at the Central Coast Clinical School in Gosford

Source: Media release, Oct 21 Social Futures

Maree Jenner meets with Central Coast schoolchidren

Brewery team shaves for a cause

Block ‘n Tackle Brewery at Kincumber is jumping on board the tradition of growing a Mo or shaving/ trimming a beard to raise funds and awareness for men’s health during Movember.

Movember is the leading charity changing the face of men’s health and knowing what works for men and what doesn’t.

Founded by 1250 men’s health projects from around the world, Movember promotes conversation about the importance of mental health and suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer.

Staff at the small batch brewery are no strangers to facial hair and this year three of them have banded together to support the cause on a larger scale.

This will be Corey Dickson’s fifth year joining in with

Movember and will be joined this year by workmates Paul Wakelin and Scott McKeaveney.

They are hoping to beat the $4,500 the brewery raised for Headspace Australia through its karma beer promotion.

The brewery will use the karma system again for this

campaign, where people donate what they think their special drop is worth, with all funds going to Movember.

In celebration of the team coming together to support this cause, they thought it would be the perfect time to brew a new beer – Frankenstein’s Mo-

nster – a play on words to incorporate a moustache theme and mark Halloween.

Wakelin will be handling the hops, Dickson the yeast and McKeaveney the grain.

Patrons and guests alike can pay what they think is fair for the karma beer, knowing that

the proceeds are going towards a good cause.

The Block ‘n Tackle team will hold their shave day on November 2 at 6pm, where the three highest donors who attend will get to choose the style of cut that one of the team members will receive.

Group meditation event at Umina Beach

As Mental Health Awareness Month draws to a close, a group meditation event will take place at Umina Breach on Saturday, October 29.

Organised by co-founders of The Sit, Mike Britton and Jason Partington, The BIG Sit, previously called 28 for Twenty Eight, will raise money for the Big Sit community.

The event was held on the Coast 2021 and 2020, with one of those being an online event due to COVID-19 restrictions.

It is also held in other locations, with $100,000 so far being raised for Lifeline.

Britton and Partington say it is time to allow some calm into our busy lifestyles.

“We are keen to provide a

proactive measure for mental fitness,” Partington said.

“It is time that people start seeing that mental fitness is equally as important as our

physical fitness.

“We acknowledge that many of us are very busy, distracted and functioning on autopilot most of the time.

“The BIG Sit is an opportunity to take some time to focus internally, to quieten the mind and to find some stillness.”

Partington said Member for

Gosford, Liesl Tesch, has been an “amazing” supporter of the event, which has had two mentions in Parliament.

Tesch, said taking time out of our busy lives is crucial for health and wellbeing.

“Often, we find our day is taken up with getting through our to do list and focussing on the needs of others, and we don’t leave time to nurture ourselves,” she said.

“I understand the demands and pressure of a busy lifestyle and I’ve found that by doing a daily meditation practice, even if it is for 10 minutes, I feel more energised and my mind is more focussed for the day ahead.

“I encourage everyone of all ages to take time out for themselves this October and look forward to seeing our

Have your say on new STEM syllabuses

Proposed new Science and Technology syllabuses for NSW high school students have been unveiled for public consultation, with Central Coast parents and teachers encouraged to have their say.

Minister for Education and Early Learning, Sarah Mitchell, said the new syllabuses have been reshaped to align with current in-field evidence that will best equip students for success in a modern, digital and connected world.

“We know that it is vital that students can apply their knowledge in the day-to-day,”

she said.

“Through these syllabuses, students will benefit from more tangible learning experiences that give them the chance to study real-world challenges, setting them up as the next generation of world leaders in STEM.

“Ultimately, the new syllabuses have been designed to better prepare young people for further study and career pathways in STEM.”

The draft Science syllabus for Years 7 to 10 include new contemporary topics on data science and investigating scientific evidence, as well as a greater focus on environmental

sustainability and energy based on the latest evidence.

Key changes include: more explicit focus on applying

knowledge and skills, with students applying classroom learning to real-world challenges and opportunities; a greater focus on essential

knowledge and skills removing ambiguity and better supporting teacher planning; increased connections between science and mathematics to support learning across the curriculum; greater links to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander historical and contemporary uses of science and technologies; greater focus on developing students’ writing skills for scientific purposes; and life skills components providing greater opportunities for students with intellectual disability to extend their literacy, numeracy and communication skills.

Additionally, a new draft

Donations can be made to the team page at https://au. movember.com/ team/2422342.

community get together and raise awareness for mental health at The BIG Sit.”

The event will comprise a 30-minute guided meditation on the beach.

Participants should arrive from 6.45am for a 7m start at Ocean Beach Surf Life Saving Club, Umina.

For more information visit The BIG Sit website.

Coasties can also join the regular Sit Saturday Sunrise meditation at 6.30am at Ocean Beach Surf Life Saving Club.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, contact Lifeline 13 11 14, or Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636.

Terry Collins

Technology syllabus for Years 7 to 8 builds on an already strong syllabus with a greater focus on digital literacy, cyber security and online safety.

The public can have their say on the draft Technology 7-8 syllabus until November 21 and on the Science and Drama 7–10 syllabuses until December 5.

They can be viewed at www. educationstandards.nsw.edu. au/wps/portal/nesa/about/ news/consultations.

Source: Media release, Oct 24 NSW Government

A previous event

Source: Media release, Oct 26 Block ‘n Tackle Brewery

Corey Dickson, Paul Wakelin and Scott McKeaveney

On the Central Coast we are in a temperate area and while some tropical plants can grow well in various pockets, many of these plants won’t survive or thrive in this cooler climate.

A tropical plant is defined as one that is native to the areas around the world between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn.

These plants are used to a temperature that remains above 18c, is humid and frost is unheard of.

If you can provide such an environment, indoors or out, then you will end up with happy, healthy tropical plants that will grow to their full potential.

Some of these northerners are a little adaptable and while you might not get the best from them, they can grow in temperate areas with a rich soil, increased humidity, and the right light.

Get the Look with Non-Tropical Plants

Not every area will accommodate true tropical plants, but you can get the look with a few clever design tricks.

Select plants that have darker foliage as this increases the perceived depth of your fauxtropical garden.

The darker an area is, the more difficult it is the see where the garden ends.

Increase volume by mass planting or grouping together pots of the same plants.

This makes the viewer think they are looking at one big plant, not lots of small ones and subconsciously we tend to think of tropical plants as bigger even though that is not always the case.

THAT TROPICAL FEELING!

Placing plants closer together helps but mind that your selection is suited for this as the increase in humidity will be great for real tropical plants but not so good for others.

Too much humidity will increase the chance of fungal issues.

Vines will also boost the jungle vibe of your tropical paradise and you can try the Australian Natives Wonga Wonga Vine (Pandorea pandoreus) and Bower of Beauty (Pandorea jasminoides).

Add in a few plants that have unusual and bright blossoms, like Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia regina) and any of the Bromeliads as nothing says tropical like these.

Use pots that are deep emerald-green to extend the lushness of your tropical garden.

Dark earthy colours will work as well.

Rustic timber furniture and features will give a wild jungle feeling and you could try adding natural looking water features but instead of fast running fountains opt for slow trickling effects that will mimic the feeling and sounds of the rainforest.

Bamboo can give you a tropical look and if you are hesitant about letting this plant into your garden, then try the delightfully jungle-looking and sounding Tiger grass (Thysanolaena maxima).

Cordylines in their myriad of colours can also give your garden another layer of texture with their spear-like leaves.

The good old Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera deliciosa) is a temperate area plant that looks like it comes from the hot depths of the jungle but will be incredibly happy in Coast gardens.

Lakes

Monday

Central

This

Sitting on a busy corner in Gosford, it’s easy

zoom by without noticing that

is a vibrant community

place for locals who are

vegetables as

people across

Since its beginning in 2017, the garden has become a popular haven for locals and workers who enjoy the opportunity to sit among the trees and gardens created by the volunteers.

Saturday mornings are always working bees at the garden, but many volunteers do extra days during the week as well. Everyone is welcome at the garden, whether

to work or just to sit and chat and enjoy the morning tea that is provided free.

Like all community gardens, no experience is needed, just show up.

East Gosford can be visited at any time as it is an open garden but to meet the happy team you will need to pop into a working bee or an event. https://www.facebook.com/East-GosfordCommunity-Garden

A project of The Rotary Club of East Gosford Community Garden.

One of our Rotarians, Vivienne Caroll brought the idea of this project to the Club to get the local community and Rotary working together.

GC The gardens can be found within the Newman Memorial Gardens 10 -12 Wells Street East Gosford.

GARDENS: EAST GOSFORD

Umina bodybuilder triumphs at championships

Richard Braddish of Umina Beach has been bodybuilding since he was 16 and has always wanted to compete, but raising a family put his training on hold.

But on Sunday, October 16, he finally competed for the first time at the age of 57 at the Australian Bodybuilding Federation Championships in Newcastle, coming first in the over 50s in Bodybuilding and Classic events and third in the First Timers.

“I have always made it a priority to keep fit and live a healthy lifestyle,” he said.

“But when I had a family, things shifted and I took a break from the weights in my 30s and 40s.

“After moving to Umina in 2004 I decided to try something different and joined Umina Surf Club,competing in surf lifesaving.

“I am still an active patrol member but in the past few years I gained a little weight and found I was really missing working out, so I went back to bodybuilding around three years ago.

“In that time, I have lost 40kg

with changes in diet and lots of weightlifting along with running and walking.

“Diet is a huge part of fitness and these days I eat very few carbs and lots of protein, fruit and nuts.

“Friends from my local gym at Peninsula Recreation Centre started encouraging me to reconsider competing in bodybuilding, so I registered for the Newcastle event.

“I spent three-four months preparing and it was pretty tough – especially sticking to the diet – but that is crucial to making changes – keeping your calories low and being active.”

Braddish said the competition was a great experience.

“Having family and friends there made it a special day,” he said.

“I would probably look at competing only once or twice a year because it is quite hard on your body.

“I’m thinking of competing at Newcastle again next April.”

Major boon for surf live saving

Central Coast Council presented Surf Life Saving Central Coast (SLSCC) with a $116,000 cheque on October 20 at Toowoon Bay Surf Life Saving Club, the first instalment of a twoyear sponsorship.

Council also provided a direct sponsorship to each of the 15 Surf Life Saving Clubs of $6,500 to offset rescue equipment for the season, with a total funding package of $213,500.

The funding agreement from Council and will assist in maintaining programs, activities, and the supply of rescue equipment for the clubs during the 2022-23 summer season.

Saving Central Coast beach patrols make an invaluable contribution to the community’s safety.

“The unified partnership that

exists between Council and Surf Life Saving Central Coast provides residents and visitors a seamless service each day of the beach season,” he said.

“The training and education programs included in this service contribute to a safer community and are known to promote beach safety while connecting families and young people right across the Central Coast.

“Local surf clubs are vital to our region, and the financial sponsorship will assist Surf Life Saving to buy the essential equipment and run the programs needed to keep our community safe for many summers to come.”

The money will be used to purchase rescue boards, IRB motors and beach signage and to help with servicing oxygen equipment, programming of radios within the new communication network and

educational swim between the flag messaging.

Council has also purchased Can-Am side by side vehicles, a four-wheel-drive vehicle, two personal watercraft (PWC) vehicles, and durable beach signage, and arranged the installation and upgrade of new observation towers and PA

Boost for football club

The Gosford City Football Club will be able to send more coaches to training clinics and see more referees trained thanks to $5,000 in funding through the Federal Government’s 2021-22 Volunteer Grants program.

Member for Robertson, Gordon Reid, met with club president, Col Seggie, recently

to announce the funding and congratulate the club.

“Sport is a great way to build connections in the community, while exercising both body and mind,” Reid said.

“Investing in the capacity of sporting clubs ensures that more people are able to get involved in sport and enjoy the benefits it provides.

“I look forward to continuing

to support sporting clubs across the Robertson electorate and removing the barriers to sport participation.”

Seggie said the club community will benefit greatly from the funding.

“The funding announced will ensure that the club can train more coaches and referees to meet the growing numbers of players in our teams,” he said.

systems which perform vital emergency response across the 15 patrolled beaches.

Surf Life Saving Central Coast Chief Executive Officer, Jon Harkness, thanked Council for its ongoing support and continued recognition of the services provided.

“The relationship Surf Life

Saving Central Coast has with the Council is invaluable to both organisations and the community,” he said.

“The funding received enables us to purchase, maintain and share equipment to ensure we are rescue-ready every day of the season.

“The Central Coast is the

most fortunate regions in NSW due to the positive working relationship and collaboration between both organisations.

“We work together to ensure we have seamless services seven days each week of the season.”

During the Central Coast’s 2021-22 Beach Patrol Season, SLSCC had a total of 8,387 active volunteer members across the 15 Surf Clubs, who delivered over 87,000 patrolling hours, completing 606 rescues and responding to over 100 emergency call outs and incidents.

SLSCC volunteer lifesavers patrol the region’s beaches on weekends and on public holidays, while Council lifeguards patrol from Monday to Friday.

“This is a great support, and we look forward to continuing to grow the capacity of Gosford City Football Club.”

To get involved with Gosford City Football Club email: contact@gosfordcityfc.org.au.

Source: Media release, Oct 21 Member for Robertson, Gordon Reid

Gordon Reid with club president, Col Seggie, at Gavenlock Oval, Narara

Terry Collins Braddish competed in bodybuilding for the first time at the age of 57

Richard Braddish with his awards

Source: Media release, Oct 21 Central Coast Council

Surf Life Saving Central Coast CEO Jon Harkness accepts the cheque from Council CEO David Farmer

Damp and dismal start to Mariners season

The Central Coast Mariners were defeated 2-1 in their first home game of the season against A-League bottom-dwellers Perth Glory at Central Coast Stadium on Sunday.

The loss follows a lacklustre draw against Wellington and a washed out opener against the Newcastle Jets two weeks ago.

Nic Montgomery’s new-look team now sits in equal last place on the A-league ladder

after three rounds alongside Western United who they will play this coming weekend.

The crowd of 6,000-odd local families had gathered on a heavily overcast Sunday afternoon to see their team perform live for the first time of the season.

The Mariners started the game well against a West Australian outfit with some good defensive play and some incisive attacks through the

midfield.

Then in the 21st minute, Sammy Silvera drove home the first goal of the afternoon with uber confidence in a shot the Perth keeper just watched sail past into the back of the net.

Glory found an equaliser just minutes before half time, coming after a classic save from Mariners keeper Vukovic.

With the score line at one goal apiece the game’s three points were well and truly up for

grabs.

The home side had the first chance in the second half, at the 51st minute a perfectly placed pass from Cummings across the field to Jacob Farrell left space on the left.

Under pressure Farrell opted to hit a volley, with the ball curling wide of the mark.

Moments later Perth created an opportunity and scored a goal that bounced off keeper Danny Vukovic after he

performed a gymnastic initial save.

The Mariners went on attack, treating the home crowd to a series of aggressive plays in front of goal, though the tall Perth defence held their own.

Five minutes of extra time intensified the Mariners’ efforts with multiple attempts to break through the Glory’s defence, but the full-time whistle came leaving the blue and yellow empty-handed and the home

crowd disappointed with the Mariners dismal start to the season.

Montgomery’s team focus now turns to next weekend’s game against Western United that will now be played in Gosford and not Mudgee due to the torrential rain that region is experiencing.

CCM fans get to see that match held at Central Coast Stadium next Saturday at 5pm.

Thrilling end to footy season for Terrigal women’s teams

Terrigal United Football Club (TUFC) had a spectacular end to the football season with two teams advancing to the grand final of the Champion of Champions in Sydney on October 23.

After securing the regional premiership, the W12A and the W16A teams progressed through knockout games with other NSW league regional winning teams to make it to the grand final at Valentine Sports Park.

While neither team was victorious on the day, it was a landmark occasion for the Central Coast to see two women’s teams reach the prestigious grand final.

The U12A’s were defeated 0-1 after playing valiant footfall against a more experienced Rockdale side from the St George region.

Coach Alex Powell had arranged for professional soccer player, Sam Kerr, to send them a video message of good luck before the match which was a highlight for the players.

The U16’s went down 4-1 to Shell Harbour during a fast paced and skilful game of football.

Both teams had gone undefeated this year through to the Champion of Champions grand final.

David Abrahams

Sammy Silvera celebrates after his powerful goal

Image: CCM Media

Source: Media release, Oct 24 Prue Eakin

The W12A