Coast Community News 378

SES volunteers honoured for their combined 120 years of service

See page 8

Koala love in the air on Valentine’s Day

Love was truly in the air at the Australian Reptile Park on Valentine’s Day, February 14, as Elsa the world-famous koala discovered she had a secret admirer.

See page 14

Steggall to reintroduce Bill to ban PEP 11 once and for all

Member for Warringah Zali Steggall is set to reintroduce her Offshore Petroleum and Greenhouse Gas Storage (Stop PEP 11 and Protect Our Coast)

Private Members Bill to Federal Parliament, with the PEP 11 permit for offshore gas exploration now back in the spotlight.

With the Federal Government and Asset Energy agreeing recently to end a Federal Court challenge over former PM Scott Morrison’s refusal of a licence renewal, the permit will once more have to go through the process of being considered by the Joint

Authority (comprising State and Federal governments).

“The Petroleum Exploration Permit 11 (PEP 11) application, which covers 4,500 square kilometres of ocean along NSW’s east coast from North Head National Park in Manly, through the Central Coast and as far as Newcastle, is destined to be reconsidered,” Steggall said.

“When the Bill was first introduced in November, 2021, Prime Minister Albanese, then in Opposition, stated: ‘We stood at Terrigal and made it very clear that we were opposed to PEP 11 … this is a bad proposal’.”

Continued page 8

Revive-ing arts and culture on the Coast

See page 13

Solar energy boost for Lake Haven centre

Out&About Business Sport

See page 21

Mammals keeper Lauren Hunter delivered the special bouquet to Elsa

Photo: Australian Reptile Park

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Central Coast IPA beer launches with global ambitions

not use, any material sent to us for publication and to validate, amend, update, expand or reduce the information provided at our sole discretion and in accordance with our editorial guidelines. Material that is offensive, defamatory, or overtly political will not be published.

Editor: Ross Barry, David Abrahams (Digital Editor)

Journalists: Terry Collins, Sue Murray

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Distribution: Anthony Wagstaff

Phone: (02) 4325 7369

Email to: editorial@centralcoastnews.net

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ABOUT US

Central Coast Newspapers

Pty Ltd (CCN) is a locally owned and operated, independent news media business, providing local print and digital news to communities across the Central Coast.

CCN publishes the Coast Community News weekly with over 40,000 copies available via more than 250 distribution points all across the Central Coast.

Most stories can be viewed on coastcommunitynews. com.au

CCN seeks to uphold the core purpose of the free press,

that is, to provide real, publicinterest journalism without fear or prejudice, to keep communities informed about local issues and events and to ensure powerful interest groups, public and private, are held to account.

Our news content is originated through our own team of experienced, local journalists as well as external sources, including media releases and public notices. All our content is subject to strict editorial standards (available on the website).

Ross Barry, Publisher

In the back streets of Gosford, a new style of beer has quietly run off the production line at Bay Road Brewery on Donnison Street.

The first label of the humble little brewing project ‘Space Rocket’ gives an insight into the brew master’s less than humble ambitions.

Co-founder of Bay Road Brewing Grant Buckham has been working on the new style

of beer for a good while.

His dream is to create a style of beer somewhere between the well known East Coast IPA and the West Coast IPA, two of the most popular brewing styles in the USA.

Grant said to CCN “I wanted to create a great new beer style that fits naturally into the global market and also gives the Central Coast its own distinctive beer style

“The beer has distinctive

fruity flavours up front and a salty finish to remind us of the great beaches here on the Coast”

Locals can come into the Brewery on Donnison Street in Gosford CBD for a Space Rocket on tap or purchase six packs of cans at selected retailers around the region.

Bay Road Brewery was founded in 2018 and has since attracted a loyal following and picked up national awards for

their brews.

See the video interview on our YouTube Channel @ CentralCoastNewsAU

Food donation for Mary Mac’s

After a very successful raffle fundraiser at Christmas, Deepwater Older Women’s Network (OWN) has handed over a large donation of food to Mary Mac’s Place in Woy Woy.

OWN Co-ordinator Genelle Solomon and Secretary Jennifer Brown presented the food to Mary Mac’s project worker Sally Baker.

Baker said she was delighted to replenish the larder as the centre was running short of staple items needed for rough

WILLS WEEK

call 1800 155 155

sleepers.

Deepwater OWN will be doing a series of food purchases during the first half of the year to help the centre cater to regulars.

Deepwater OWN advocates for the rights, dignity and wellbeing of older women in the community and supports Mary Mac’s, Care4Coast and Allawah House, an initiative to get homeless women into affordable accommodation.

Source: Media release, Feb 10 Deepwater Older Women’s Network

Wills Week is a great opportunity to have a professional solicitor in your local area provide advice to establish your first Will or update an existing one. Wills Week is made possible thanks to the generous support of solicitors who donate their time to ensure that 100% of your booking fee is donated to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

Booking fee - $125 for a single person

- $225 for a couple making mutual Wills

Book now to secure a meeting with a solicitor to receive advice about having a simple* Will drafted. Full details, including *terms and conditions can be viewed at rescuehelicopter.com. au/willsweek. Wills Week appointment fees do not include the drafting of Power of Attorney or Enduring Guardianship documents .

David Abrahams

Grant Buckham co-founder of Bay Road Brewery with his new beer

Genelle Solomon and Jennifer Brown present the food to Sally Baker

State of Ettalong foreshore an embarrassment says Chamber

Despite assurances from Central Coast Council that it performed “selected pruning” and weed removal along the Ettalong foreshore over December and January, Peninsula Chamber of Commerce says the area remains an “embarrassment”.

Chamber President Matthew Wales has called on Council to “get serious” about lifting the maintenance standards for the stretch of foreshore between Beach St and Picnic Pde.

“Despite repeated requests to Council and numerous meetings with Council staff, the poor state of the Ettalong Beach foreshore remains an embarrassment for the town with only token maintenance being recently undertaken by Council,” Wales said.

“Any objective inspection of the town beach foreshore section between Beach St and Picnic Pde would make you wonder how Council believes this to be remotely satisfactory and is certainly inconsistent with Council’s own adopted Plan of Management.

“Despite the outstanding success of the foreshore south of The Box Restaurant, the town beach is overgrown, weed infested and poorly maintained.

“Trimming a few trees and picking up some bits of rubbish is hardly pro-active maintenance of the reserve.

“The underlying principle of the Plan of Management was to protect the view lines from The Esplanade whilst stabilising the beach.

“The coastal wattle has now grown so far down the beach that beachgoers were (recently) found clinging to a narrow strip of sand whilst trying to enjoy the beach.”

Businessman Larry Altavilla said work was also needed between Ferry Rd and Picnic Pde, with the unsafe state of vegetation making it “only a matter of time before someone gets hurt or a child is very seriously injured”.

A Council spokesperson said representatives met on site with community members last October and committed to a number of actions, delivering on the majority of those throughout December and January as promised.

“Works have included selected pruning in the vicinity of the viewing platforms in order to enhance views via sight lines and weed removal and treatment along the foreshore, the spokesperson said.

“Maintenance has also been undertaken on beach accessways including rubbish removal, selective pruning, removal and redistribution of excess sand and fence maintenance.

“The treated pine fencing located next to the Box on the Water Restaurant has also been removed.

“Further works are planned and ongoing, including the replacement of missing and damaged aluminium fencing panels, weed removal and selected pruning.”

The spokesperson said removing native vegetation that was advancing down the beach would “cause a negative impact on the dunes and so would not be undertaken”.

“It was explained the dune forms the backbone to the beach, and the native vegetation growing in this area is helping to stabilise and maintain the beach,” the spokesperson said.

“Loss of this vegetation would likely result in increased loss of sand from the beach area both decreasing beach amenity and the amenity of the township, as has been experienced in the years prior to the native vegetation establishing in the reserve.”

But Wales said Council seemed intent on doing as little as possible whilst “trotting out the same of rhetoric about protecting the dunes”.

“This doesn’t happen at other town beach locations such as Terrigal or The Entrance,” he said.

“The Chamber is calling on Council to get serious about maintaining and upgrading the town beach by making more serious commitments to beach

front maintenance.

“At a time when we are looking to boost visitor numbers and promote Ettalong Beach as an attractive sought-after destination, Council is making it increasingly difficult to secure repeat visitation due to the poor state of the foreshore. “This is causing loss of business opportunities particularly in the conferencing and wedding sector.

“We want visitors and tourists to be stunned by our views not struggling to find pathways and viewing decks hidden in poorly maintained, weed infested overgrown vegetation.”

Terry Collins

Vegetation continues to spread down the beach Council has tidied up the viewing platform, but the Chamber says rampant vegetation is still an

RSL to host ANZAC Day service at Copacabana

This year’s ANZAC Day service on The Green at Copacabana will be hosted by the RSL, after Central Coast Council refused an application to run the event from the Navy Veterans’ Welfare Association of NSW (NVWA), which has hosted it since 2020.

A spokesperson said Council made the decision as the RSL is a “recognised facilitator for ANZAC ceremonies around Australia, and generally the lead in all other Central Coast ANZAC events”.

“The RSL is committed to working to unite all stakeholders for future memorial events at Copacabana,” the spokesperson said.

“Council looks forward to a successful 2023 ANZAC Day community event and will confirm future arrangements at a later date.”

Copacabana Community Association (CCA) President

Sue Steedman said the group is “delighted” that the RSL is to host the dawn service this year.

“As the largest organisation representing veterans and their interests nationally, we believe the RSL is the appropriate body to lead ANZAC Day services in an inclusive and respectful manner,” Steedman said.

“The CCA has been invited to attend and lay a wreath on behalf of our members.”

But Navy Veterans’ Welfare Association of NSW spokesperson Roque Hammal is unhappy with the decision and said he has collected

almost 300 signatures on a petition and several letters of support calling on Davistown RSL, which lodged the application to host the event on behalf of the Central Coast District Council of RSLs, to withdraw it.

“I have been assisting veterans and their families (in) dealing with The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) since 1991, and later I was the Founder of The Australian Navy in Vietnam Veterans’ Welfare Association of WA and NSW,” Hammal said.

“In 2021, due to the advancing ages of the Vietnam veterans remaining as volunteers, it became necessary to close down the WA Association, and the NSW Association changed its name and became incorporated.

“It is now known as The Navy Veterans’ Welfare Association

of NSW.

“This was done to open the door for younger veterans to come on board to do advocacy work.

“Our association has been based in Copacabana for the past 20 years and has been active in supporting veterans of all three branches of the armed services and the Copacabana community.

“Some of our activities have included Australia Day ceremony on The Green, Clean up Copacabana Days when required, Easter for the Children on The Green, ANZAC Day services on The Green, Vietnam Veteran’s Day on The Green, Remembrance Day on The Green, collection of money for Legacy, Father Christmas for the children of Copacabana on The Green, collection of presents for the Salvation Army and receiving phone calls from

veterans and Copacabana community members for assistance.

“Our association has been hosting the ANZAC Day dawn service since 2020 on The Green near the Surf Lifesaving Club, with approval from Central Coast Council.”

The Navy Veterans’ Welfare Association’s mobile memorial

Also at issue is approval in principle (not approval) from Council for the RSL to erect a permanent memorial at the site, to eventually replace the mobile memorial used by the NVWA.

“The RSL will need to lodge an application and satisfy all conditions related to a Development Application,” the Council spokesperson said.

“Council staff have met with stakeholders including the RSL, community associations and the Navy Veterans’ Welfare

Association on site to discuss the proposed location and project details.”

Hammal said the decision was an insult.

“In 2019, I designed and built a mobile memorial dedicated to all three services and the Merchant Navy for use by Copacabana residents to pay their respects to those who paid the supreme sacrifice in time of conflict,” he said.

“This memorial met with the approval of Chief of The Navy and (is) registered with the Australian War Memorial as (an) Official War Memorial.”

Central Coast District Council of RSLs President Greg Mawson said the council held no animosity towards any group.

“The RSL is the custodian of all ceremonies and services in Australia,” he said.

Mawson said Davistown RSL had been asked by the council

Be on alert for increased snake activity

With February being prime hatching season for the summer eggs of red bellied black snakes and death adders, the Australian Reptile Park is urging all Central Coast residents to be on the alert for increased snake activity.

The Park’s snake expert Billy Collett said snake season on the east coast lasts traditionally from late Spring through Summer, easing off only when the weather begins to cool as Autumn gets underway.

“The snakes start coming out of the winter months looking for food and breeding sites and we see the eggs hatching through February and March,” he said.

“Of course, activity is also weather dependent and the hotter periods we have been experiencing will see the snakes moving around more, looking for food, shelter and water.

“The big rain events also get

the snakes moving as they look for places to dry off and get warm.”

Collett said home backyards were often a mecca for snakes, particularly if they back onto or are near bushland.

But even more urban settings can become “snake hotels”, with Collett warning residents to keep lawns mowed and

rubbish piles at bay.

“If you have piles of rubbish they will attract rodents and the rodents will attract the snakes,” he said.

“It is also important to ensure your doors and windows –especially roller garage doors – are secure with no gaps- and that includes fireplaces.

“Retaining walls are also

often attractive to snakes –there are always little gaps and rodents often burrow near them – and hedges and long grasses can attract them too, along with hollow logs and large rocks with gaps underneath them.”

Collett said it was important for all residents to be up to date on snake bite first aid, with demonstrations available on

to lodge the application to host the Copacabana service as it was the nearest sub-branch. Advantages to the RSL conducting the service included liability insurance cover, he said.

Mawson said having a permanent memorial at the site would allow ex-servicepeople to visit the site at any time of the year to reflect.

“The memorial would meet all Council requirements and be small – probably a plinth on a rock,” he said.

“We have invited the Navy Veterans’ Welfare Association to continue to use its mobile memorial until a permanent one is installed.”

Mawson said the RSL hoped to host all future ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day services at Copacabana.

“On the Central Coast the most commonly seen snakes are diamond pythons, tree snakes, marsh snakes and red bellied black snakes,” he said.

“Any venomous snake is dangerous and if people spot one they should immediately call a snake catcher or wildlife group.”

“The main message is – if you see a snake, leave it alone and call a professional.

“Children should be instructed not to go anywhere near a snake but to call the closest adult if they see one.”

the Park’s website.

“Basically, the best thing to do is to apply a pressure bandage over the bite site, winding around it three times and then up the limb,” he said.

Victims should be taken to hospital immediately once a pressure bandage is applied and residents should resist the urge to try to identify the snake.

Collett said snake activity usually abated through March and April as things cool down.

“Once again, this depends largely on the weather,” he said.

“If things cool down suddenly we might see snake activity drop off sooner but usually by Easter we are seeing activity die right down.”

Terry Collins

Terry Collins

The Navy Veterans’ Welfare Association’s mobile memorial

Last year’s ANZAC Day dawn service at Copacabana

The Australian Reptile Park’s snake expert, Billy Collett

The death adder is one of the snakes most commonly seen on the Coast

Photo: Australian Reptile Park

Photo: Australian Reptile Park

Construction underway on Kariong skate park

Construction has begun on the new skate park and pump track at Kariong Oval, which is designed for a range of ages, abilities, and wheels.

The high quality active recreational space is due for completion by May, and will provide an engaging space for local families and the broader community to connect and lead active outdoor lifestyles

Central Coast Council Director Community and Recreation Services Mel Smith said the community has shaped the design of the new skate park and pump track and informed the decision-making process for the project.

“Community engagement activities were held in 2021 with design workshops and an online survey resulting in 302 submissions, with this valuable feedback guiding the concept designs to ensure they reflect the needs of the community,” Smith said.

“Community engagement identified a preference for a street style skate park and pump track with transitional flow and obstacles that cater to beginner and intermediate skill levels.

“The inclusion of seating,

shade and water re-fill stations were also a priority by many members of the community –which are all reflected in the final designs, along with new landscaping, installation of waste bins and connective pathways.

The pump track is a continuous smooth track with banked curves and crests which can be used by a variety of ages and abilities on bikes,

scooters, skate boards or skates.”

The new skate park and pump track is located within the Kariong Oval precinct on the Curringa Rd frontage with easy access to the library and adjoining carpark.

The site is nestled between mature eucalyptus trees and connected open grassed areas, creating a central community space with opportunities for

varied passive recreation. The location also allows for natural surveillance which creates a safer environment and reduces anti-social behaviour.

The new facility will replace and improve upon the existing skate bowl (located at the Central Coast Hwy side of the oval) which is in poor condition and set for demolition once the new skate park is complete.

Council Administrator Rik

Hart said this project is a great example of how community participation in consultation leads to real impact in the final design and delivery of new facilities.

“This new skate park and pump track will cater to the needs of the community now and for future generations and improve liveability of the area,” Hart said.

“We will continue to use community opinion and feedback to make informed decisions to deliver better services, community facilities, and projects for the Central Coast region.”

The project is funded by Council’s general revenue and Local Infrastructure Contributions, which are charged by Council when new development occurs.

These contributions fund local infrastructure needed to support an increased number of residents in the area.

Plans for a local level playspace were also developed in the concept plans alongside the new skate park and pump track.

Construction costs have increased significantly since original budget estimates and concept plans were developed, so the playspace component will be delivered by Council later once additional funding is confirmed..

Source: Media release, Feb 8 Central Coast Council

PPalmdale Lawn Cemetery & Memorial Park

With easy accessibility located conveniently off the M1, Palmdale Memorial Park combines an extensive set of manicured, awardwinning gardens. All situated within peaceful and rural surroundings that are to be in awe of.

For all services, facilities are available at Palmdale Memorial Park, offering two chapels on-site; their intimate Rose Chapel and spacious Hillside Chapel. Both are air-conditioned and fully-fitted with audiovisual facilities for your service.

Prepaid memorial sites are also available set amongst the stunning gardens. Contact the friendly team at Palmdale today to learn more.

A concept design for the Kariong Oval skate park and pump track

Work starts on Tumbi Rd intersection upgrade

Work is set to begin on the upgrade of the Tumbi Rd/ Central Coat Hwy intersection, with changed traffic conditions between Wamberal and Bateau Bay for the next couple of months.

From Monday, February 12, overnight preparation work will start on the Central Coast Hwy for about 250 metres from the Wamberal Fruit Shop to just north of the Pacific Gardens Hotel.

Work will be carried out from 6pm to 5am, weather permitting, and includes survey, clearing vegetation, utilities investigations, minor earthworks, new line marking, installing temporary pavement, drainage and placement of barriers.

Once the barriers are in place, day work including drainage, – and vegetation work will be carried out from 7am to 5pm Monday to Saturday with preliminary work expected to be completed by April.

Traffic control and a reduced speed limit of 40 km/h will be in place during work hours for the safety of workers and motorists.

Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions and follow the directions of signs and traffic control.

A Transport for NSW (TfNSW) said last year spokesperson that the Federal and State Governments had committed $64M to fast-track work on the upgrade, which is designed to improve traffic flow and safety at the busy intersection.

This followed a community consultation period in 2021

which attracted 35 submissions.

The upgrade will replace the existing roundabout with traffic lights and widen the Central Coast Hwy north of the intersection to two lanes in each direction.

Other key features of the proposal include: providing two right turn lanes out of Tumbi Road onto the highway southbound; relocating two existing bus stops to a common

location northbound on the Central Coast Hwy just north of the intersection; upgrading the existing large culvert under the highway north of the intersection including a new pipe crossing, to improve stormwater drainage; providing a U-turn bay in front of Pacific Garden Hotel for southbound traffic; providing a new parking and loading facility to the Wamberal Grocer and Fruit Market (subject to landowner

agreement); installing retaining walls and landscaped batter slopes to prevent impacts on Wamberal Lagoon Nature Reserve; and relocation and adjustment of existing utilities including water, sewerage, electricity, gas and telecommunications.

“It will improve public transport amenities and access, as well providing better walking and cycling connections with new and

Gosford Men’s Shed goes high-tech

The Gosford Community Men’s Shed has received more than $8,400 through the 2022 Community Building Partnership Program for a new Laser Emblaser 2 package.

The package will allow members to increase their output, being 10 times quicker than the current technology at the shed.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch joined members to officially hand over the funds.

“The men’s shed is a fantastic grassroots organisation allowing men to come together to learn new skills, work on projects, and build a support network,” Tesch said.

“The laser emblaser will help introduce technology to older people and allow for members to have more opportunity when working on projects.”

Men’s Shed President Larry Lloyd said the funding would allow the group to expand its operations.

“The area in technology is something that the members are keen for,” he said.

“The Laser Emblaser 2 will help introduce technology to older people.

“Members don’t have technology at home, so they can come here to learn.

“With our current CNC machine it can take up to an hour to make engravings on

upgraded footpaths and shared paths,” the spokesperson said.

“This upgrade will boost economic growth and productivity in the region by cutting queuing and reducing delays at the intersection, resulting in better traffic flow.”

The upgrade is expected to take about two years to complete.

things like our breadboards; with the Laser Emblaser, it takes three minutes.

“Our mission is to enjoy each other’s company while developing and sharing skills.” Tesch said it was never too late to learn a new skill.

“The funding will allow members to learn new things and create even better projects,” she said.

Anyone wanting to get involved is encouraged to go to mensshed.org/sheds/Gosfordcommunity-mens-shed-inc.

Source: Media release, Feb 13

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch

WHERE: Gosford RSL Club

WHEN: 28 February 2023

TIME: 6:45pm - 8:00pm

WHERE: Mingara Recreation Club

WHEN: 7 March 2023

TIME: 6:45pm - 8:00pm

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch hands over the cheque to Gosford Men’s Shed

Terry Collins

The Tumbi Rd/Central Coast Hwy intersection

Green turtle found at Kincumber rehabilitated

An endangered green turtle rehabilitated by the Taronga Wildlife Hospital team has been released back into the ocean after being found near Kincumber in October.

It was the first marine turtle release of 2023 for the busy wildlife hospital and follows the release in December of Terry the turtle, found in August at Terrigal. The release of the 33 kg turtle took place quietly on February 1. She was brought into the Taronga Wildlife Hospital last October after being found by a member of the public floating in Brisbane Water near Kincumber.

“The turtle was trying to submerge, but she couldn’t dive so she was just bobbing in

the water,” the hospital’s Senior Veterinarian Larry Vogelnest said.

“Thankfully, a couple of boaters rescued her and brought her into our care.

“Green turtles get their name from the green colour of their fat and cartilage.

“Adult green turtles consume mainly seagrass and algae, so they need to be able to dive to access their food.

“This turtle’s entire intestinal tract was full of gas.

“Her intestines looked like balloons; this was one of the worse gas accumulations I have ever seen in a turtle.

“If she hadn’t been rescued and brought into care, her intestines would have ruptured or she would have deteriorated over time.”

The turtle was treated with fluids and pain relief and received general support and care.

After a few days, she started improving and the amount of gas was decreasing.

“We don’t really know what caused the gas accumulation inside this turtle, but thankfully, it gradually resolved,”Vogelnest said.

“It never ceases to amaze me how excited green turtles become when they are about to be released back into the ocean.

“When we are on the boat, it’s like they can smell the ocean – their home – and they start flapping their flippers wildly until we release them into the water.

“A floating turtle is a common

clinical sign of illness, so if you see one that is struggling to submerge or just floating on the surface for long periods, please contact National Parks and Wildlife Service or Australian Seabird and Turtle Rescue so they can rescue it and bring it into the Taronga Wildlife Hospital.”

The turtle was released just outside Sydney Headlands thanks to a joint operation by Taronga Wildlife Hospital and NSW Police Marine Area Command.

Like Terry before her, she was tagged with a satellite tracker as part of The Taronga Marine Turtle Satellite Tracking Program – becoming the program’s 39th marine turtle. The research program, funded by Veolia, monitors the

survival and movement of rehabilitated turtles and provides data on critical habitat use in NSW.

All marine turtle species are now classified as endangered or critically endangered.

Habitat and food source loss, accidental capture in fishing nets, entanglement in nets and ingestion of fishhooks, lines and plastics in the ocean are major threats.

“Green Turtles don’t breed until they are about 40 years of age, and sadly many don’t survive that long anymore,” Vogelnest said.

“Although we don’t know the exact age of this turtle, we can tell that she is still a few years away from being old enough to breed, but we hope that she will survive and ultimately

contribute to the population of this endangered species.”

Meanwhile, data from the satellite tracker on Terry shows that he is currently spending time in the Kurnell area as he moves in and out of the Sydney basins and up and down the coastline.

The program, established in 2014, helps researchers and conservationists unlock data about the movement of several endangered turtle species and, combined with Taronga’s research in the field of stable isotope analysis, supports a better understanding of important habitat and its protection, threats and their impacts, and species conservation.

Source: Media release, Feb 10, 2023, Taronga Wildlife Hospital

The turtle tagged with a satellite tracker

The Taronga Wildlife Hospital team transports the turtle to her ocean release

The turtle was released just outside Sydney headlands

A Terrigal woman is one of 69 people who have been added to the 2021-22 Hidden Treasures Honour Roll which pays public tribute to the girls and women across regional, rural and remote NSW who have given their time and energy to helping others in their community.

An active member of Terrigal Surf Club for more than 30 years, Meldrum said she was “very honoured and excited” to be added to the Honour Roll. She first joined Terrigal Surf Life Saving Club in 1989 when her children were Nippers and has been involved in the movement ever since.

In 1994 she became involved with Surf Life Saving Central Coast and was granted life

Beris is a true Hidden Treasure

membership last year.

In 2016 she received her 15 years national patrol service award and in 2020 she received her 20 years officiating, trainers and assessors certificates from SLSA.

“I decided in 1996 to train to be a trainer and give instruction on oxygen, defibrillator and radio,” she said.

“I felt I wanted to give something back to the organisation – my children got so much out of Nippers.”

While she did some paid work for the Terrigal club office for 16 years, most of her involvement over the years has been voluntary.

“I retired from the office when I turned 70 but then became Director of Finance, which voluntary position I still hold,” she said.

Fourteen volunteers of the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) Gosford Unit have been recognised for their combined 120 years of service.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch joined SES Deputy Commissioner Daniel Austin at a ceremony to present National Medals and Long Service Awards recently.

“Our fantastic and hardworking volunteers have a long and proud history of selflessly supporting the Central Coast community through storms, floods and other emergencies,” Crouch said.

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said women like Meldrum play an important role in community development and making rural NSW a great place to live.

“It is so important we honour

their contributions to ensure that voluntary work is valued and respected,” he said.

“Beris is a well-known community member in Terrigal.

“Day after day, week after week and year after year, Beris

is down at the surf club volunteering her time as a trainer, official, first aider and almost every other role you can think of.

“She truly embodies a local hidden treasure.”

Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor said more than 1,000 women from across rural and regional NSW have been enshrined on the honour roll since 2010, each nominated by a member of theirlocal community.

“Women play an important role in community development and making rural NSW a great place to live and it is important we honour their contributions to ensure that voluntary work is valued and respected,” she said.

“Whether it’s supporting individuals or groups within their communities through

SES volunteers honoured

Deputy Commissioner Austin said the dedication to the community the volunteers had displayed was to be applauded.

“Time and time again they have risen to the challenges of supporting not just their local towns, but communities right across NSW in adverse weather events,” he said.

The National Medal recognises long and diligent service in organisations that protect life and property at some risk to their members, with 15 years’ eligible service necessary to qualify.

volunteering in aged care, emergency services, environmental management, health, sport, education and tourism, women are often the unsung heroes behind the scenes who keep our communities connected.

“They do this freely and without fanfare but they are the backbone of our communities and our society simply wouldn’t function effectively without them, so it’s incredibly important to take the opportunity to sing their praises and celebrate their significant contributions.”

Hidden Treasures is a project of the Rural Women’s Network, a state-wide initiative of Women NSW which is funded by a $3.7M investment from the NSW Government.

Medal and the NSW SES 15 Year Long Service Award –Denise Brooks, Leon Brooks and Peter Evans; NSW SES 15 Year Long Service Award –Stuart Fishbourne; NSW SES 10 Year Long Service Award –Gregory Bowen and Terence Howard; and NSW SES 5 Year Long Service Award – Erik Suaning, Jeanette Perdriau, Katrina Fowler, Shea Cullen, Ryan Mcintyre, Lucy Mitchell and Matthew Bolton.

Source: Media release, Feb 7, 2023, Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast Adam Crouch

“It is my privilege to recognise these 14 men and women who have served for a combined

120 years.

“It’s a tremendous achievement and I would like to

congratulate each and every one of the medal recipients and thank you for your service.”

Award recipients include: National Medal Clasp 2 and the NSW SES 35 Year Long Service Award – Rolf Garda; National

Steggall to reintroduce Bill to ban PEP 11 once and for all

Continued from page 1

“The question now is, will the Albanese Government abandon our communities or Stop PEP 11 once and for all by supporting my Bill?”

Steggall said the key

advantage to her Bill is that it provides a fast and simple resolution of the issue, with questions around the PEP 11 permit possibly set to continue for years.

She said that even with court proceedings wrapping up, it

will still be some time before the application can be reconsidered.

And even then, assuming a decision to cancel the permit stands, the decision could be open to further legal challenges.

“It’s far better to legislate,

because this will ensure that no future applications, for any reason, can be granted by the Joint Authority or Titles Administrator for the area covered by PEP11,” she said.

Steggall said without changes to the legislation, the Joint

Authority’s decision could be subject to further review or challenge and questions around bias of decisions would remain given previous statements made by the Prime Minister and members of Government.

Further, even if a permit renewal were refused it would not rule out future applications being lodged for the PEP 11 area.

Terry Collins

Parliamentary Secretaryr for the Central Coast Adam Crouch with some of the volunteers

Terry Collins

Beris Meldrum

Our NSW Government understands the importance of educating our children to swim from a young age The First Lap scheme delivers a $100 voucher for children aged 3-6 to be used towards the cost of swimming lessons Similarly, school-age children annually receive 2 x $100 Active Kids Vouchers for school-enrolled children to use towards sport costs, and a $100 Creative Kids Voucher to engage in creative and cultural activities These are fantastic initiatives which I strongly encourage our community to get involved with!

Police worker charged with drink driving

A NSW Police civilian employee has been charged with mid-range drink driving after being stopped for allegedly speeding on the Central Coast yesterday.

Officers attached to Brisbane Water Highway Patrol were conducting speed enforcement duties on the Pacific Highway at Ourimbah, when they detected a Kia allegedly being driven at almost 90km/h in the 60km/h zone about 12.30am on Friday 10 February.

Anyone with information about these incidents should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: www.crimestoppers.com.au Information provided will be treated in the strictest of confidence.

The Kia was stopped, and the driver was subjected to a roadside breath test, returning a positive result.

The 41-year-old man, who is

Court refuses bail for member of Finks bikie gang

attached to a specialist command, was arrested and taken to Gosford Police Station where he underwent a breath analysis which returned an alleged reading of 0.102.

He was charged with midrange PCA and is due to appear at Gosford Local Court on Wednesday 15 March 2023.

The man has also been issued with a traffic infringement notice for motor vehicle exceed speed more than 20km/h.

Source: NSW Police Media

A Finks outlaw motorcycle gang member – wanted on an outstanding warrant –was refused bail when he eventually faced court over alleged traffic and drug offences.

When the 24-year-old man from Shalvey failed to appear before Mt Druitt Local Court on Monday, February 6 over a pursuit with police and other traffic matters, a conviction warrant was issued for his arrest.

About 2.30pm on Friday,

Workers evacuated from Wyong factory

Fire and Rescue NSW crews helped evacuate 50 workers threatened by a large, hazardous dust cloud at a Wyong factory on Monday, February 13.

Crews from Berkeley Vale and Wyong arrived quickly at the Lucca Rd address, just after 12.30pm, establishing an exclusion zone and escorting the workers to safety.

One of the workers was assessed by NSW Ambulance paramedics and treated at the scene after the dust escaped from a blast furnace waste

containment bin.

The dust contaminated large areas of the factory and a number of vehicles.

Aware that the particles could become caustic if wet, firefighters and staff worked together to contain and direct the dust to a sheltered area.

Firefighters established a decontamination area and worked with onsite personnel throughout the afternoon to render the site safe.

The facility is fitted with a containment system so all runoff was contained on site.

Source: Fire & Rescue NSW

Two people drown at Frazer Beach

A man and woman have died after being pulled from the water unconscious at Frazer Beach in the Munmorah State Conservation Area.

Just before 4.20pm on Wednesday, February 8,

emergency services were called to Frazer Beach following reports two people had been pulled from the water unresponsive.

Witnesses commenced CPR

before NSW Ambulance paramedics arrived but the two could not be revived.

They are yet to be formally identified but are believed to be aged in their 40s.

Officers attached to Tuggerah Lakes Police District have

February 10, an off-duty police officer saw the man at a shopping centre in Bay Village Rd, Bateau Bay.

Officers from the newlyformed Raptor North squad were notified and with assistance from officers attached to Tuggerah Lakes Police District, the man was arrested soon after at the shopping centre.

During a search of the man, police located mobile phones, cash, a bottle alleged to contain

the drug GHB and prescription medication.

These items were seized to undergo forensic examination.

The man was taken to Wyong Police Station, where the outstanding warrant was executed, and he was also charged on two counts of possess prohibited drug, drive motor vehicle during disqualification period, and police pursuit - not stop - drive recklessly.

Source: NSW Police

Police pop into The Glen

Police from Tuggerah Lakes and Brisbane Water Police Districts visited The Glen Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation at Chittaway Point on February 14.

Commander, Northern Region, Assistant Commissioner Peter McKenna, Commander, tuggerah Lakes PD, Superintendent Chad Gillies, Commander, Brisbane Water PD, Superintendent Darryl Jobson and the Senior Leadership Teams met with staff and volunteers from The

Glen Rehab for Men. Executive Director of The Glen Joe Coyte provided an overview of the program and its benefits. Police heard some inspirational stories and gained a greater insight into the goals of The Glen and itsr efforts to improve the lives of the clients who participate in the program.

Source: Brisbane Water Police District Facebook page

commenced inquiries into the incident. A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.

Source: Media release, Feb 8, 2023, NSW Police

Fire crews clearing hazardous dust at the factory

Frazer Park Beach

If the Council Administrator thinks that his “explanation” of the rate rises clarifies the matter or satisfies the community, he is naive indeed (CCN 377).

The idea that the fact that we are spending more than we’re earning is all the justification that is needed for a rate rise is ridiculous.

The obvious question is why, when infrastructure is inadequate for requirements, community facilities are in a dire state, and council services are abysmal, are we spending so much?

One answer that immediately suggests itself is that the Council is so incompetently run that everything costs more than it should and that the first line of action should be to

improve efficiencies, rather than throw more money at the problem.

When it takes six months to get a response from Council to a simple development application, something is sadly amiss.

Two months is supposed to be the standard time for determination of a development application, but the Council comes nowhere near this timing, for even the smallest of projects.

Similarly, when letters to the Council are just ignored, not even warranting the courtesy of an acknowledgement, there is a bad culture at work.

Council servants are employees of the ratepayers,

and ratepayers deserve to be treated accordingly.

My experience (admittedly, from many years ago) is that Council servants prefer being under an Administrator to being under a Council, because it allows them to follow standardized bureaucratic processes, without ever being queried about it.

However, it can also engender an attitude that ratepayers really don’t have any leverage, because they have no recourse to a representative who can intervene on their behalf.

For this reason alone, return to a representative Council should be as early as possible.

It is obvious that Kevin Brooks is absolutely correct when he says that “Mr. Hart has still not fixed the underlying causes” of the Council’s problems.

Selling off property and borrowing money to “balance the books” is just a mechanical exercise that almost anybody could undertake.

The great defect of the Administrator Mark 1’s term was that he did not leave a functioning administrative mechanism in place for the elected Council that took his place, even though that was his principal responsibility.

It looks very much as though an incoming Council, if ever we are allowed one, might face the same problem all over again.

However, how does this leave us for the next two years, when we are virtually powerless to influence any decision that the Administrator makes?

Email, Feb 13

Bruce Hyland, Woy Woy

Dr Reid, stop raising interest rates

I am a resident of the Gosford area hence my email to you. Since you got into Government, interest rates have risen and continue to rise.

I am no economist but this approach by RBA clearly is not working and it is having a huge effect on the normal worker of Australia.

I see pictures of you almost every week in the local paper and you seem to be a community liaison person.

The RBA has basically said that rates will continue to rise – please, this cannot continue.

Families are being slugged as it is.

What is the plan behind the scenes to curb inflation rather than keep increasing rates?

Protest letters have been sent by concerned locals for more than 30 years.

I hope they haven’t been overlooked by the “new” council or misplaced during the move.

Ferry Road parking

I have recently have been fined for “double parking” in Ferry Rd.

I was not parked.

I was in my car waiting to pick up an elderly neighbour arriving on the ferry.

I was not blocking anyone’s driveway.

There is very limited parking in Ferry Rd. and quite often drivers have to hover while passengers disembark.

There is only one space for cars with a Disability Parking Permit.

It is unfair to force elderly or disabled people to walk long distances to available parking

which is usually streets away. I think some leeway should be given to drivers and some thought given to helping our citizens in most need.

Email, David Davies, Blackwall

Arts, culture and entertainment on the Central Coast is set to benefit from the Federal Government’s new National Cultural Policy, Revive, with a raft of administrative changes on the way and $286M in dedicated funding – including $5M to upgrade training facilities at NAISDA Dance College’s Kariong campus.

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid said Revive will empower our talented artists and arts organisations to thrive and grow – unlocking new opportunities, reaching new audiences and telling stories in compelling new ways.

“It will bring drive, direction and vision back to the $17B industry – which employs an estimated 400,000 Australians – after a lost decade of federal policy drift and funding neglect,” he said.

Backed by $286M in dedicated funding over four years, Revive’s centrepiece is the establishment of Creative Australia.

This will be the Government’s new principal arts investment and advisory body.

The governing body of Creative Australia will continue to be known as the Australia Council.

Creative Australia will expand on and modernise the Australia Council’s work with funding decisions made on the basis of artistic merit and at arm’s length from Government.

Revive-ing arts and culture on the Coast

Within Creative Australia four new bodies will be established: a new First Nations-led body which will give First Nations people autonomy over decisions and investments; Music Australia, a dedicated new body to support and invest in the Australian contemporary music industry; Writers Australia, to support writers and illustrators to create new works; and new Centre for Arts and Entertainment Workplaces to ensure creative workers are paid fairly and have safe workplaces free from harassment and discrimination.

Revive is built on five pillars but puts First Nations first –recognising and respecting the crucial place of these stories at the heart of our arts and culture.

Revive also commits the Government to: introduce legislation to protect First Nations knowledge and cultural expressions, including the harm caused by fake art; develop a First Nations creative workforce strategy; fund the establishment of a National Aboriginal Art Gallery in Alice Springs and an Aboriginal Cultural Centre in Perth; and provide $11M to establish a First Nations Languages Policy Partnership between First Nations representatives and Australian governments.

NAISDA Chairperson Mayrah Sonter said Revive is an important step towards making Australian arts more accessible, valued and equitable for all communities and people.

“We are delighted by the Federal Government’s clear support to strengthen First Nations arts and the direct economic benefit this policy brings to our region through its $5M commitment to support NAISDA’s infrastructure and capacity-building on Darkinjung Land at Kariong,” she said.

“Itisastrongacknowledgement that our cultural infrastructure and national arts training institutes like NAISDA are critical in nurturing and empowering our future artists, storytellers and industry.

“First Nations culture and knowledge have been shared through stories, movement and music on Lands across Australia for tens of thousands of years.

“Revive recognises the significant contribution First Nations arts make, not only to our creative and cultural landscape, but to our understanding and celebration of personal and national identity.

“Revive provides an exciting pathway of possibility and change for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art, artists and all Australians.”

Revive also commits the Government to regulating Australian content on streaming platforms; improving lending rights and incomes for Australian writers; increased funding for regional art; and dozens of other measures.

Terry Collins

Richard Harris

The NAISDA Dance College will receive $5M to upgrade its training facilities

Audiences can expect escapist fun with improbable, implausible plot twists and a bit of cross dressing when Woy Woy Little Theatre (WWLT) presents Party Piece at Peninsula Theatre for a three-week season from February 24.

The play sees events unfold in the back gardens of two adjacent neighbours, as Doctor Michael and his wife Roma’s fancy dress house-warming party descends into disaster and chaos.

The action includes a notable shortage of guests, a shed engulfed by smoke and an aerodynamic Zimmer frame.

Party Piece is sure to please

A fence separates the neighbours, but it has a peep hole which is used to riotous effect for each household to spy on the other as class warfare intensifies.

Director Sarah Lovesy, who makes her debut for WWLT, has directed for Sydney companies, including the Pymble Players and the Elanora Players and is a drama teacher with a degree in Performing Arts, specialising in direction and design.

She helped set up the drama department at the Newtown High School of the Performing Arts and was involved in the design of the HSC drama course.

Moving to the Central Coast

18 months ago to be closer to family, Lovesy said she was drawn to direct Party Piece because of its complicated nature.

“It’s a very good farce – quick paced and funny – but it’s also a challenge and is rarely put on by community theatre groups,” she said.

“The set, special effects and props are all very complicated but all add to the hilarity and while the storyline of farces is often very simple, this one has lots of dramatic action.

“There are seven fabulous diverse characters, each with their own story and background and that really appealed to me.”

Lovesy said the rehearsal had been plagues by some difficulties due to illness but that the cast had risen to the occasion beautifully.

“There have been some pressures byt the cast have remained positive,” she said.

“It’s a great play and they all wanted to be part of it.”

The cast comprises Troy Hester, Jenna Arnold, Karyn Wiffen, Terry Matthews, Jessica Curtis, Oliver Shepherd and Katrina Cook.

Party Piece opens for a threeweek season at Peninsula Theatre on February 24. Bookings can be made on the Woy Woy Little Theatre website.

Koala love in the air on Valentine’s Day

Love was truly in the air at the Australian Reptile Park on Valentine’s Day, February 14, as Elsa the world-famous koala discovered she had a secret admirer.

Gundy the koala enlisted the help of mammals keeper Lauren Hunter to deliver a fresh bouquet of pink and red eucalyptus blossoms with hopes high the pair will

eventually take part in this year’s breeding season.

Hunter said Elsa’s favourite snack is eucalyptus blossom and she munched on the massive bunch of flowers all day long.

“Elsa and Gundy are both beautiful koalas and would make the most perfect couple,” she said.

“We have plans to pair them together for this year’s breeding

season, and hopefully there will soon be a little joey along the way.”

The Park, at Somersby, continues to breed koalas to help boost population numbers for the endangered species. The program also seeks to educate visitors about koalas and with last years’ breeding season seeing more joeys born into the program, staff hope 2023’s additional joeys and

SATURDAY 11 MARCH 2023

3.00 – 5.30 pm

heightened awareness will help protect the species from extinction.

“It’s more important now than ever to show the world just how special our koalas are and the importance of our crucial conservation breeding program,” Hunter said.

Source: Media release, Feb 14 Australian Reptile Park

Terry Collins The cast rehearses a scene from Party Piece

“A magical afternoon of opera favourites and beautiful melodies amongst the trees”

Mammals keeper Lauren Hunter delivered the special bouquet to Elsa

Photo: Australian Reptile Park

You don’t usually associate senior citizens with motor bikes, but residents at Uniting Nareen Gardens Lodge at Bateau Bay were thrilled when the Central Coast Classic Motorcycle Club displayed 15 historic bikes at the Lodge recently as part of the NSW Seniors’ Festival.

Motorcycle Club President Peter Redman said the 15 bikes, supplied by club members, were all more than 30 years old.

“There were bikes ranging from the 1950s to the 1980s and (we also had) a motorbike and sidecar,” he said.

Classic bikes a hit with older residents

“I think the old British Bikes, like the Triumph and BSA, were the most popular because they are bikes residents can relate to.

“(There were) also some BMWs and some Japanese bikes.

“Our Club has been going since 1983 as a branch of the Classic & Enthusiasts Motor Cycle Club of NSW, and in 1987 we formed our stand alone club, Central Coast Classic Motor Cycle Club.

“The aim of the club is to provide an association for people interested in the preservation, restoration and use of historic motorcycles, which are 30 years old and

Better Hearing Australia

Central Coast (BHACC) will host a captioned screening of the new movie, Empire of Light, at Avoca Beach Picture Theatre on Monday, February 27, at 2pm as part of the NSW Seniors Festival.

Set in an English coastal town in the early 1980s, the film is about the power of human connection during turbulent

older.

“At present we have 175 members and hold monthly

meeting and club organized rides.”

Uniting Leisure and Wellness

Coordinator Shannon Roughan said a range of exciting activities had been organised

Captioned screening at Avoca Beach

times.

It stars Olivia Colman, Micheal Ward, Monica Dolan, Tom Brooke, Tanya Moodie, Hannah Onslow, Crystal Clarke, Toby Jones, and Colin Firth.

It follows Hilary Small, who works as a duty manager at the Empire Cinema in Margate and struggles with bipolar disorder and lives alone.

When a new employee starts at the cinema, he and Hilary enter into an inter-racial

relationship.

The first 100 tickets booked will be free and 100 choc-top ice creams will be given out on the day.

When all the free tickets are booked, tickets will be sold at a reduced price of $8.80.

As the movie screening is captioned, it will be suitable for people who have hearing loss.

BHACC is a local volunteer not-for-profit organisation

which assists people with hearing loss through the provision of support, education, and advocacy.

The NSW Government provided a grant to help BHACC hold the event.

Tickets can be booked online at www.avocabeachtheatre. com.au

for residents to celebrate the Seniors Festival.

“Not only fun activities, such as our classic bike show, our kindi farm and mocktail afternoon, but also some more serious stuff as well, such as having the SES to come by to speak about storm and flooding safety and how to handle bush fire season,” she said.

“Ultimately we were hoping to get important information to our residents for their wellbeing and show them that they are our number one priority.

“We were hoping to bring joy and happiness to our residents with something different.”

Terry Collins

Leisure and Wellness Coordinator Shannon Roughan and resident Betty Frampton admire the bikes

Source: Media release, Feb 8 Better Hearing Australia Olivia Colman in Empire of Light

Rent set to open at Laycock St

Jonathan Larson’s rock musical Rent opened on Broadway in 1996 and became one of the longest running shows in New York’s theatre district, playing for 12 years.

Loosely based on Giacomo Puccini’s 1896 opera La Bohème, it tells the story of a group of impoverished young artists struggling to survive and create a life in Lower Manhattan’s East Village under the shadow of HIV/AIDS.

It has had countless international performances over the years and now Gosford Musical Society will bring its own touch to the acclaimed musical, featuring some of the brightest your performers on the Central Coast.

Following a highly-praised performance as Dewey Finn in

last year’s School of Rock, Isaac Ledingham plays Roger.

A music teacher by day, Ledingham also featured as one of a four-strong cast in Jason Robert Brown’s Songs for a New World.

Alexander Rowe takes on the role of Mark, after acclaimed

performances as the lead character in The Wedding Singer and in Wyong Musical Theatre Company’s production of Little Women, where he played a German professor.

Other major cast members include Finn Alexander, Cara Cerulli, Jarrod Thompson,

Jessica King, Eamon Moses and Teaghan Thompson, who are supported by a strong ensemble of 23 actors, singers and dancers.

The show follows a group of young bohemians as the physical and emotional complications of HIV/AIDS

pervade their lives while negotiate their dreams, loves and conflicts.

Director Rob Hale said the theme of Rent is a universal one, highlighting the value of love and life and connects everyone who feels alone or afraid, or is struggling for being

who they are, following their dream or afraid of being their authentic self.

“It carries an important message that we must learn from the struggle, and the uncertainty,” he said.

“We need to reach out to our community, live in the moment, choose love, and choose each other over adversity.”

Musical Director for Rent is Marianne Powles, with choreography by Lauren Miller and Lara Coffey.

Rent opens at Gosford’s Laycock Street Theatre for a three-week season from Friday, March 3, until Saturday March 18.

Bookings are available on the GMS website.

Collins

Next Gen art exhibition at Ourimbah campus

Young emerging Central Coast artists are in the spotlight at the University of Newcastle’s inaugural Coast Next Gen Art Exhibition, open from February 13-April 21.

Supported by Central Coast Council, the exhibition includes paintings, photography, sculpture and digital design by 22 HSC graduates selected from seven schools across the Central Coast.

University Deputy ViceChancellor (Academic) and Vice-President, Professor Mark Hoffman, said events such as

this were important not only for the individuals participating, but also for arts and the community.

“The inaugural Coast Next Gen Art Exhibition is an invaluable opportunity for the community to come together to lift up their young people, and art in the region,” Hoffman said.

“We are proud to deliver the first event of this kind on the Central Coast, and we encourage members of the public to come along and be inspired by the next generation of local artists.”

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Tuggerah Lakes Secondary College The Entrance Campus

Principal Kirrily Harvey said the exhibition provides an opportunity for talented students to showcase their outstanding work.

“Our students are honoured to have artworks selected for the event,” she said.

“This event highlights the importance of art in our region and the partnerships between schools and the university to develop pathways for our next generation.”

University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alex Zelinsky, said the event would inspire young people on the Central Coast and reaffirm the university’s commitment to the Coast, now and into the future.

IN MEMORIAM WEIR,

Christina Ida

15/11/1933 – 11/2/2023

Aged 89 years

Loved wife of Andrew (dec.); loving mother and mother-inlaw of Louise and Les, Paul and Kim, Robert and Debbie, David and Julie; and dear Nan of Callum, Daniel, Loren and Oliver, and Great Nan to Luella and Fox.

Wednesday

Family and friends of Chris are invited to attend her funeral service to be held at the Greenway Chapel, 460 Avoca Drive, Green Point, on Friday 24 February 2023, commencing at 12:00 midday. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to The Heart Foundation or Cancer Research.

Avoca Drive Kincumber 43 63 1699

“We are committed to providing a wide range of opportunities for our next generation on the Central Coast

– whether it’s in the arts, or through some of our other offerings, such as through the University of Newcastle Central

Coast Clinical School or the enabling pathway programs we provide at our Ourimbah campus,” he said.

“We know that young people on the Central Coast are capable of great things and our university is here to help students achieve their dreams.”

The exhibition will be held at the University of Newcastle’s Ourimbah campus Library and will be open to the public from Monday, February 13-Friday, April 21.

Visitors are invited to vote for the People’s Choice award, which will be announced at the end of the exhibition.

Source: Media release, Feb 10 University of Newcastle

Call for volunteer sailors

The Spectrum Social Group is on the lookout for volunteers to help out with its monthly cruises on the Brisbane Water.

The social group for independent adults on the autism spectrum conducts the cruises for approximately two hours one Sunday a month.

“This has been very successful with members enjoying a relaxed morning listening to music and taking in the views,” a spokesperson said.

“Each cruise is limited to five members at a time for safety reasons.

“We are in search of volunteers assist our skipper, Dave, with each cruise.

“This is a hands-on position and will include: operating the vessel; ensuring the safety and

comfort of all on-board from departure to return; and controlling mooring lines.

“Experience is not required as volunteers can be given full training.”

The spokesperson said with the day cruises being so successful, the group is also looking to include evening cruises.

“If you are not available on a Sunday morning, then you may be able to volunteer for an evening cruise,” the spokesperson said.

“This is a great opportunity for anyone who loves being on the water and wants to give back to their community.”

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer contact David Kent on 0449 504 554. For general enquiries about the Spectrum Social Group, Central Coast, contact Trish at hello@trishstephens.net or check the website.

Source: Media release, Feb 10 Spectrum Social Group, Central Coast

Terry

Alexander Rowe as Mark

Isaac Ledingham as Roger

Kiara Clark with her artwork

The group is looking for volunteers to help with its monthly cruises

1. Flat circular bread

2. Swamped

3. Trick

4. Filmed 5. Parthenon city 6. Finds repugnant 7. Famous volcano 8. Root vegetable 9. Stage whisper 10. Round handle 12. Singer, Bob ... 14. Rashers 16. Hollywood prize 19. Herbs, bouquet

MISSING LINK

MISSING LINK

Fill

A new exhibition highlighting the work of six emerging artists will be on show at The Erina Centre Gallery in the foyer of Erina Library until March 11.

Inspired by Gosford Regional Gallery’s Developing Expression studio group 2022, under the mentorship of Gosford Art Prize finalist Jon

Expressible artwork on show

Ellis, Expressible brings the artists together to express their stories and experiences within their own styles and media choices.

The featured artists are Carol Porter, JJ Arnold, Carolyn Purtle, Karen Macdonald, Jo Stanes and Tracey L Baglin.

Carolyn Purtle she loves nature and bush-walking, which go “hand in hand”.

“Painting allows me to bring some of that wonder and beauty back in my living room,” she said.

“This is an expression of me; the ability to express myself and be inspired by the beauty of nature.

“Jon has guided and somewhat pushed me to became more loose and to feel the subject.”

Carol Porter said her work was a “journey through space and time; the exploration of colours, shapes and forms”.

“(It is) the abstraction of ideas, concepts and places, where I draw upon familiar spaces around me,” she said. She said she had pursued different methods in abstract painting under Ellis’s direction.

Karen Macdonald said her series of painting was inspired while cruising the Arctic Circle, observing glaciers, icebergs, polar bears and other wildlife. “(It was) such an extraordinary experience that I wanted to preserve the feeling forever on canvas,” she said.

Tracey L. Baglin said her work was “an examination of the mangroves behind Gosford

Gallery (capturing) jewel-like reflections and unexpected colours in the rich shimmering mudpools after weeks of rain”. The Erina Centre Gallery is open from 9am-5pm MondayFriday and from 9am-1pm on Saturdays.

Terry Collins

Some of the artwork on display

Valentine’s special heart shaped spinach and cheese ravioli A PINCH OF SALT

Chef Daniel’s next guest is MP Dr Gordon Reid who is a passionate local himself and advocate for hospitality and boosting the Central Coast’s profile.

With this very special Valentine’s edition, Chef Daniel shows Dr Reid how to make his own love heart shaped spinach and cheese ravioli. What a great way to impress your partner than to make something romantic for them. You can use whatever filling you like and freeze as many as you want in zip lock bags to use down the track. This is a great recipe for vegetarians.

Gordon is not only a politician, an Emergency department doctor, but also the second youngest MP in Federal Parliament of Australia.

He grew up in Umina, and values family and community as number one. He is very approachable and his door is always open to discuss matters that are important to you and the Central Coast.

Watch and listen to the full edutainment video from Chef Daniel for Central Coast Newspapers readers on YouTube free for a limited time. Our YouTube handle is @CentralCoastNewAU

•

Ingredients:

• 1/2 bottle of Passata sauce

• 2 cloves of garlic

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 300 g bag Baby spinach

• 200g Ricotta cheese

• Egg pastry wonton wraps 20 pack

• Nutmeg

• One egg

• Half a cup of water for sauce

Filling Instructions:

1. Bring pot of water to the boil

2. Throw in 300g baby spinach for 5 seconds then remove the baby spinach and place in a separate metal bowl.

3. Keep the green water to cook the ravioli in later.

4. Add salt to baby spinach and one egg

5. Add 300g of ricotta cheese and mix together with a sprinkle of nutmeg

6. Place small amount in middle of wonton wrap, put a little water on your finger and dab around edges to help seal.

7. Add another wonton on top. Use heart shaped metal cake cutter and press down on ravioli to shape.

8. Place the ravioli in the green leftover water from before and cook for 2 minutes and set aside.

Sauce instructions:

• Slice garlic

• Oil in pan on low heat

• Cook garlic

• Add 1⁄2 bottle of Pasta sauce

• Add half a cup of vegetable water from before

• Add ravioli into sauce and cook altogether for 5 minutes

Serve:

Sauce and ravioli on a plate top with a drizzle of olive oil and basil leaves

Outdoor symphony concert on The Entrance foreshore

Outdoor concerts and a warm summer evening go hand-in-hand perfectly and Symphony Central Coast will be presenting a free afternoon of great music at the refurbished soundshell at Memorial Park, The Entrance.

The One Land, Many Stories concert will be a celebration of Australian music and musicians, performed by some of the Coast’s most talented, on Sunday, February 26 from 4pm to 6pm.

The performance will feature Keyna Wilkins, Amanda Handel and singers from the Central

Coast Conservatorium of Music, plus songs from Elena Kats-Chernin and Peter Sculthorpe.

It will also feature the world premiere of Steven Stanke’s Rumbalara Rising, written to celebrate that mighty edifice overlooking Gosford, plus lots of other Australian songs, indigenous dancers and a Welcome to Country by Gavi Duncan.

Take your own lawn chair, blanket, and picnic basket, for a great family event while enjoying the sounds of a full symphony orchestra live on the foreshore at The Entrance.

The orchestra will follow-up

on April 2 with a concert –Lights, Action, Music! – at The Art House in Wyong. Without music, film would be a shadow of its current self, as film music sets the location, provides mood, and reveals unspoken thoughts.

Symphony Central Coast will perform music by past and present students from the Australian Film, Television and Radio School in Sydney and Aaron Trew’s Central Coast Composer Collective, many live to screen.

There will be Hollywood favourites, including Maurice Jarre’s Laurence of Arabia, Michael Giacchino’s Up, and

Ryuichi Sakamoto’s Merry Christmas, Mr Lawrence.

From Studio Ghibli, there will be music from Princess Mononoke, Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle and more.

This will be a film music concert like no other, from the rarely seen Elvira Madigan with music by Mozart, the powerful and moving Last of the Mohicans to the world premiere of a new score to Charles Klein’s 1928 film of Edgar Allan Poe’s The Telltale Heart.

LAST WEEK’S PUZZLE ANSWERS

Chef Daniel with MP Dr Gordon Reid

A bank of 14 batteries will be installed at Lake Haven Shopping Centre to store excess solar energy generated from the rooftop solar system.

In 2019 about 5,000 solar

panels were installed across the entire roof of the centre which if laid end-to-end equals about 10kms, the distance from Lake Haven to Norah Head lighthouse, and with capacity to generate up to two

megawatts of power.

Installation of the battery energy storage system forms an integral component of the shopping centre’s solar energy system and means it can draw less energy from the grid and

consequently reduce demand on the electricity network.

It will store excess electricity from the rooftop solar panels for later use to meet the power needs only of the shopping centre and no electricity will be

fed back into the grid.

It’s an investment of about $2.2M – and apart from the 14 battery racks there also will be 20 inverters and two control panels, all located in a secluded loading bay at the rear of the

centre on the Lake Haven Oval side, where the equipment won’t be visible from public vantage points or cause any noise intrusion.

Cash boost for better NBN broadband connection

Thousands of households and businesses all over the Central Coast will be able to upgrade to a full-fibre broadband connection thanks to a huge cash boost by the Federal Government.

The upgrades are part of the NBN’s fibre connection program, with a $2.4B investment announced on February 13 to expand fullfibre access to 1.5 million additional premises nationwide.

The world-class fibre broadband means faster upload and download speeds with a more reliable connection and the benefits are even more

pronounced for larger households if many devices are used, as higher speeds means the whole family can be online at the same time.

An upgrade will be available on-demand where an eligible household orders a higher speed plan than would currently be available to them over copper broadband network.

Member for Dobell Emma McBride said more than 6,000 premises in the electorate would be eligible to benefit, including at Wyongah, Wyoming, Watanobbi, San Remo, Ourimbah, Lisarow, Kanwal, Gorokan and Blue Haven.

“This is a significant

investment in building a better NBN,” McBride said.

“It will have a direct positive impact for families and business on the Central Coast.

“High speed internet will

allow our students to thrive and our business to compete with the world’s best.

“This is a tangible step that displays the Albanese Government’s determination to

narrow the digital divide in regional communities.”

Member for Shortland Pat Conroy said residents and businesses owners should check their eligibility and register for updates on NBN Co’s website, with San Remo, Mannering Park, Halekulani, Buff Point and Budgewoi among areas eligible.

“This is a nation-shaping investment, ensuring more Australians can take advantage of an increasingly digital global economy,” he said.

To the south of the region, households and businesses in Umina Beach, Terrigal, Niagara Park, Narara, Lisarow, Kincumber, Kariong, Erina, and

Avoca Beach, will be eligible.

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid said the Government was delivering on its plan for a better NBN.

“These investments will make a meaningful difference to the quality-of-life for locals,” he said.

NBN Co expects eligible premises will be able to access a full-fibre upgrade from 2024.

To register for updates, visit: www.nbnco.com.au/ residential/upgrades/fttpupgrade-with-higher-speedtiers.

Linda Emery Lawyer Since 1983 Hospital & Home Visits

panels cover the roof at Lake Haven Shopping Centre

Terry Collins and Sue Murray

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid and Member for Dobell Emma McBride

Sue Murray

This article has a video story on our website

Council criticised over Toukley boarding house approval

Toukley residents who waged a strong campaign for many years against a large-scale boarding house say that Central Coast Council failed to back them, and ultimately it was approved by Council following Land and Environment Court mediation.

“It lays fairly and squarely at the feet of Council,” said David Isaac, who represents the group Concerned Residents of Proposal for Boarding, Toukley which comprises 480 local residents.

“Our objection isn’t against the Court because all they did was basically seal the deal done by the developer and Council – our disappointment is extended to Council and their failure to equitably represent the objections that we raised, and also misrepresented our objections to the Commissioner,” he said.

Land and Environment Court (LEC) Commissioner Elizabeth Espinosa delivered her Judgement on February 8 to approve the transformation of a rundown old nursing home at 51 Peel St, Toukley into a boarding house for up to 92 people, mostly men.

Local residents have always strongly opposed multiple revisions of the development application dating back to 2018, mainly because of the over-development and lack of support services in the surrounding area.

“The Toukley group is not against appropriately scaled affordable housing and we would have been prepared to accept a housing development with larger rooms to accommodate around 30 people, including women and children,” Isaac said.

“We consider that a development jamming 90-plus men into 12sqm rooms is going

to have a substantial adverse social impact,” he said.

The project was initially rejected by Council and because of the high number of objections it was passed to the Local Planning Panel which also refused the development because of its high density, substandard amenities and communal areas, poor building design and institutional feel.

Owners G Ahadizadeh Pty Ltd, Mr A Ahadizadeh and Mr C Ahadizadeh, operating under the company name Seranin Group, lodged a fifth revised development application and at the same time filed an appeal with the LEC against deemed

refusal of the new DA. That appeal brought about a conciliation conference where a LEC Commissioner heard from resident representatives, Council, the Panel and the developer.

David Isaac, on behalf of the Concerned Residents of Proposal for Boarding, Toukley, asked Council what amendments had been made to the DA subsequent to the conciliation conference and on what basis Council made its decisions, however to date, all correspondence has been ignored.

“We feel very let down by Council, we don’t have any elected representatives to back us up, and this Council under Administration has failed us and misrepresented the community’s concerns in this case, and is ignoring its accountability,” Isaac said.

“Information provided to the Commissioner refers to 100 submissions but that is grossly under-stated as 275 were submitted and there were more than 460 concerned members in the community group that joined resources to place the objections.

“The Judgement took into account that the parties (developer and Council) agreed that all the objections raised were addressed by the amended plans and information – another misrepresentation –

because it was clearly stated in 270 written submissions to Council that concerns by the objectors were not addressed, and we doubt whether the LEC even saw the submissions.

“Then there’s the mention in the Judgement that the respondent (Council) agrees that the proposed development was compatible with the character of the area.

“Why would Council agree that the scale of this development is compatible with the character of the area when clearly 460 residents, who Council is required to represent, do not?

“The Council has fundamentally failed to represent the interests of the people,” Isaac said.

One of the long list of conditions for approval of the boarding house is compliance with the Plan of Management which includes meetings every three months between the Boarding House Manager and a Community Liaison Committee comprised of local community members, local police and Council to ensure the boarding house is a good neighbour and is able to understand and proactively address any emerging problems or issues.

“The management plan is a good thing and all the rules and regulations are there in black and white,” Isaac said.

“Since it appears there is no way now of stopping the boarding house, then in accordance with the management plan, I’d rather participate in a committee, and I know some of the other locals would too, so we can help to have it run properly rather than have it be a problem in the neighbourhood,” Isaac said.

Central Coast Council was approached for comment and issued the following statement.

Council participated in a Court-ordered supervised mediation, at which the Land and Environment Court Commissioner presided.

During mediation Council was able to raise issues of concern to both Council and Toukley community residents as identified during the DA consultation.

Both before, and during the mediation, the applicant (developer) made further and extensive revisions to the application, and in doing so, resolved all of the contentions raised by Council.

Changes to the development agreed through the conciliation process include on site waste collection, improved aesthetic design, increased landscaping, and increased noise abatement. It should be noted that community members who objected to the final DA submitted, had the opportunity to address the Court prior to the mediation.

Council is committed to the provision of quality affordable housing on the Central Coast to help alleviate the housing crisis.

Council supports the Government’s Housing Strategy 2041 and Central Coast Regional Plan 2041, which is in line with Council’s own Affordable and Alternative Housing Strategy and soon to be released draft Central Coast Housing Strategy.

Sue Murray

ensuring the protection and safety of the facility and persons or property near the facility

• Any other activity necessary or desirable for the installation

• The proposed installation will provide Optus 3G (WCDMA900), 4G (LTE700, LTE1800, LTE2300) and 5G NR2300) coverage to rail commuters within the Woy Woy Central Coast Railway Tunnel

2. Optus regards the proposed installation as exempt development in accordance with State Environmental Planning Policy (Transport and Infrastructure) 2021 based on the description above.

3. Notification is being undertaken in accordance with Section 7 of Industry Code C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment.

4. Members of the public may obtain further information on the proposed work, and we invite you to provide written comments about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to the Optus representative c/- Elliot Nelson, Catalyst ONE Pty Ltd; phone: 02 4022 9533; email: consultation@catalystone.com.au and post: PO Box 1119, Crows Nest NSW 1585 by 5:00pm 2 March 2023.

The old nursing home in Peel St, Toukley

More remodelling plans on the way at The Ary

The Ary at Toukley is planning more improvements at the club in the wake of the popular new beer garden, Mason’s Place, named after a club stalwart.

It officially opened on Australia Day in January and the club’s Marketing and Event Manager, Debbie Dickson, says the transformation of one of the under-utilised bowling greens into a family-friendly recreational space has proved a winner.

“With the steady decline of bowling members, The Ary, like many other Clubs, recognised the need to turn the valuable real estate of one of our bowling

greens into revenue-yielding space,” she said.

Two-thirds of the green has been maintained for social bowls and the club is also introducing a dedicated entertainment program for the beer garden, including live music performances.

Now, the RSL Club on the corner of Main Rd and Holmes Ave, is planning more improvements by creating an open indoor garden space.

A development application lodged with Central Coast Council says that a small portion of the roof will be removed and replaced with louvres to allow sunlight and rain in for the indoor garden

below.

Some walls will be removed but it won’t change the form or scale of the building as the alterations sit within the existing building envelope.

The proposed garden area is adjacent the gaming room and, according to the development application, the number of gaming machines would not alter and the new space would ensure a place for smoking patrons, rather than being banished to the car park.

The development application (21/2023) can viewed on Central Coast Council’s website and public feedback closes on Friday, March 3.

Sue Murray

Housing and support options for seniors with disability

Days are numbered for the old cabin and caravan park at 137 Tuggerah Pde, Long Jetty because plans are afoot to transform the site into a supported living development for seniors with a disability.

Developer GPA Capital & Partners has lodged an application with Central Coast Council to subdivide the

3,183sqm block into four Torrens title lots with three street frontages to Tuggerah Pde, Pacific St and Elsiemer St.

The plan is to build two hostels, a permanent group home and dual-occupancy residences to provide a range of permanent accommodation for disabled seniors who require round-the-clock support on a variety of levels

and Trilogy Disability Services will manage the day-to-day operation.

Lot 1 will contain three separate purpose-built hostels, each with three bedrooms and shared living areas, to accommodate nine permanent residents with disabilities who will be supported by six staff at all times to undertake daily living activities as independently

as possible.

The five-bedroom group home on Lot 2 is for permanent residents who are unable to live independently and require extra support, provided by the two carers on site 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

There will be two attached dwellings on Lot 3 facing Elsiemer St, each with three bedrooms and ensuites to

accommodate more independent seniors.

The largest block in the development, Lot 4, will contain a two-storey complex with nine units in a mix of one and twobedrooms capable of housing up to 14 people who will be supported by 11 carers on each shift around the clock.

If Council approves the development, and before

construction can begin, existing mobile homes in the caravan park will have to be removed before demolition of other structures, including the removal of 47 trees.

The development application (25/2023) is on public exhibition on Council’s website and submissions will be accepted until Friday, March 10.

Sue Murray

Warnervale is growing and our Draft Greater Warnervale Structure Plan outlines the framework that will guide development over the next 20 years. We would love to tell you all about it and hear your thoughts at one of our community drop-in sessions at Lake Haven Library.

Session 1

Session 2

Thursday 23 February 2023 Wednesday 1 March 2023 10am-12pm 1pm-3pm

Lake Haven Library Lake Haven Shopping Centre, Goobarabah Avenue

You can view the draft Plan and have your say today at: yourvoiceourcoast.com

The new beer garden opened in January

Speak up to help shape District Plan for Wyong and Tuggerah

Detailed planning for Wyong and Tuggerah is well underway and Central Coast Council is calling on community involvement to help shape the 10-year Wyong District Place Plan.

The Plan will be the first of its kind for the Central Coast and Council is aiming to have a community-led approach, and working together with key stakeholders, to guide its decision making and planning in relation to land use, placemaking, events and activities, infrastructure, general projects and works.

Located at the heart of the Central Coast, Wyong and

Tuggerah are strategically located as a gateway to the region, providing access to urban, rural and coastal communities, as well as convenient road and rail connections to Sydney, Newcastle and beyond.

The area covered by the District Place Plan is bounded by Wyong, Tuggerah, Watanobbi, Mardi, Chittaway Point, Tacoma South, Tacoma, Rocky Point and Tuggerawong – suburbs that share natural, economic, built environment and social similarities.

This collection of suburbs serves a significant social, cultural, sporting, recreation and community role for the

region, together with its housing opportunities surrounded by an attractive environment and sensitive ecosystems such as the Wyong River and floodplain, wetlands, creeks and green hills. Council’s Director of Environment and Planning, Alice Howe said the community had an important part to play during this consultation period. She said the District Place Plan was being developed at an opportune time as forecast population trends suggested that Wyong was set to experience significant growth over the next decade, with Transport for NSW also planning to upgrade the Pacific Highway

at Wyong.

“With the release of the Central Coast Regional Plan and draft Central Coast Transport Plan, there is now a need to understand how the strategic direction from the NSW Government can be translated into local action,” Dr Howe said.

“This Place Plan aims to clearly articulate how those strategies will be delivered on the ground in the Wyong District.

“We’ve engaged urban planners JOC Consulting, to lead the project with the aim to deliver a draft Place Plan for Wyong District, with public

exhibition and further public consultation later this year,” Dr Howe said.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said this new approach to planning would be beneficial for the community as the area continued to transform and grow.

“We’ve identified this project as an opportunity to develop a bottom-up approach to help guide private and public decision-making,” he said.

“I would encourage the community to participate throughout the engagement process because ideas and feedback from the community will help shape the Place Plan and drive its priorities well into

$14M for Coast sewerage works

Central Coast has welcomed funding of $14M for sewerage works in the region as the NSW Government invests $250M in essential infrastructure across the state to support the delivery of close to 140,000 new homes.

Under the third round of the Accelerated Infrastructure Fund (AIF), the Central Coast will receive $9.56M for the

upgrade of the Gwandalan Sewerage Treatment Plant and $4.61M for the upgrade of the sewerage system in Gosford.

A spokesperson said the works would allow the region to continue to grow while maintaining essential services to the community.

“Council is awaiting the preparation of final funding deeds prior to providing further details,” the spokesperson said.

CONSTRUCTION TENDERS

Paynter Dixon invite building contractors to register their interest in the construction of two Catholic School projects. St Brigid’s Catholic College, Lake Munmorah are constructing a new Multi-purpose Hall and St Joseph’s College, East Gosford are undertaking alterations and additions to their existing buildings.

Tendering for these projects will be made available via Bid Contender on 21 April 2023, however feel free to register your interest via a reply email: reception@paynterdixon.com.au

Paynter Dixon’s role in these projects is limited to design, documentation, and tender management only.

Premier Dominic Perrottet said an initial 36 councils and agency-led projects would receive funding through the third round of the AIF.

“We are fast-tracking the delivery of essential infrastructure required to speed up the construction of thousands of new homes right across our state,” Perrottet said.

This is part of our strategy to get people into homes faster by cutting red tape, speeding up development applications and boosting construction by getting more shovels into the ground sooner.

“Our long term economic plan is delivering major infrastructure projects for the future and will support communities as they grow.”

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the new funding builds on a $215M investment from the Government in the first two rounds of the program, with eligibility extended to regional councils for the first time.

“We know that getting infrastructure right is the key to

unlocking land for housing in regional NSW, which is why we have allocated almost $120M for regional councils in this round,” he said.

“The areas eligible for this funding account for 94 per cent of NSW’s total population growth over the next 10 years, according to the latest population projections.

“Towns across regional NSW are booming, with more and more people moving away from the city.

the future,” Hart said.

The end result will be a graphic and easy-to-read document that can be pickedup by anyone wanting to get a glimpse of community aspirations and strategic planning priorities in the Wyong and Tuggerah town centres and surrounding areas.

Community members can share their thoughts, ideas and feedback until Friday, March 10, by participating in the online survey at https://www. yourvoiceourcoast.com/ WyongDPP and joining the conversation on Council’s interactive map of the district.

Sue Murray

“These projects will help set the foundations for future growth.”

Minister for Planning and Minister for Homes Anthony Roberts said the councils successful in this round of the AIF would also provide their own funding for projects, amounting to a combined $517M worth of infrastructure on the way for NSW.

“We had an outstanding response from regional councils eager to work in

partnership with the Government to unlock land for new homes faster and boost economic growth,” he said.

“We share their ambition and look forward to working together.”

TheAccelerated Infrastructure Fund is part of the $2.8B NSW Housing Package announced in the 2022-2023 NSW State Budget.

Planning for significant growth in Wyong and Tuggerah

Boundary of the Wyong Tuggerah District Place Plan

Terry Collins

Sewer system upgrades in Gosford will receive a major boost

Airbnb challenges: is it still worth renting out your place?

WITH Michelle BALTAZAR

Editor-in-Chief • Money magazine

It isn’t surprising that many property owners share their place with travellers: the extra cash helps offset rising living costs and mortgages.

But short-term renting faces headwinds.

“It is tougher for my property now than pre-Covid,” says Isabella, a 68-year-old retiree who has an investment property in the Sydney suburb of Randwick.

The NSW government has cut the days she can rent out her Airbnb from 365 to 180.

Government caps on the number of days, steeper council rates and increased competition from hotels are some of the challenges for hosts.

Some local governments also charge higher council rates.

Some short-term rental markets are saturated as more properties are listed, and fees from portals such as Airbnb have increased for guests.

Then there are the unpopular cleaning fees that an increasing number of Airbnb hosts charge.

Short-term rentals are also being blamed for lack of affordable housing in tourist hotspots and even big cities.

Business starts to pick up

For Airbnb hosts such as Geoffrey, who has two highly rated Airbnbs in Hepburn in regional Victoria, bookings aren’t the same as in pre-pandemic times.

“Bookings are steady but not filling as quickly. Potential guests are now choosing to spend their travel dollars in other ways – be it on cruise ships or

in other countries – but we have just started to see the return of the international traveller to our short-stay properties here, so that looks very promising.”

Domestic travel is forecast to return to pre-pandemic levels later this year, while international tourists are expected to reach pre-Covid levels by 2025.

Geoffrey has been renting out his two properties for more than a decade, even before Airbnb set up shop in Australia in 2012.

He uses several platforms, such as Stayz, Vrbo and Expedia, plus Booking.com and Riparide, which cover NSW and Victoria.

He has had more than 2000 bookings over that time.

“Overall, 86% of all my bookings come from Airbnb, so I am a very satisfied Airbnb host.”

Despite reports of partygoers damaging properties, Geoffrey says he can count on one hand the number of problem Airbnb guests.

“But, sadly, it’s not consistently the same with guests who book via Booking.com and the Expedia brands.

“The difference I think is that Airbnb guests genuinely want an interactive experience and so bring a more caring attitude to someone else’s house.”

New wave of hosts Australians feel more comfortable about occasionally sharing their space with strangers who have been vetted and reviewed.

Using your home as a cashbox is leading to a new wave of people considering hosting for the

first time, according to research by Airbnb in Australia.

While the typical host on Airbnb in Australia earned $11,464 or more in the pandemic year 2021, the numbers are rising sharply around the globe.

Forty percent say their shortterm rental has helped them stay in their homes and 7% say it has meant they avoided eviction.

Another 41% say they’ve used the extra money to pay for food and other items that have become more expensive.

An income in retirement

Isabella took some money out of super four years ago to fix up her one-bedroom investment property and list it on Airbnb to give her a retirement income.

She did her sums and found that a short-term rental was potentially 40% more lucrative than renting it out for the long term.

Over 2019 and the early part of 2020, Isabella’s good reviews were building.

Her bookings, particularly from people catching up with family members, were solid.

They dried up during Covid, but the location of her apartment near a hospital meant she continued to attract guests who accompany and visit family members in hospital.

Then, in November 2021, the NSW government placed the 180-day cap on short-term rental accommodation, such as Isabella’s, where the host is not present – referred to as unhosted.

Where guests stay on their premises, hosts can rent out their Airbnb for the entire year.

Outside the greater Sydney area, councils in NSW have the power to cut the 365-day limit to no less than 180 days a year.

As well, owners’ corporations in some states can adopt by-laws that limit short-term rentals in their strata scheme, by banning it in lots that are not the host’s principal place of residence.

In NSW, for example, if someone lives in a strata property as their principal place of residence, they will still be able to rent out their home or rooms while they live there, or while they are temporarily away.

Airbnb fights back

Airbnb is busy working with state governments on caps on shortterm rentals, trying to stop radical cuts to the number of days.

To attract hosts, Airbnb is adding sweeteners such as expanded guest identity verification and higher insurance cover, up to $3 million damage protection.

It has improved the set-up for new hosts, linking them to an experienced “super host” for one-on-one guidance, and added new categories such as “play” for homes with basketball courts, game rooms and water slides, as well as wheelchair access.

In a recent presentation, Brian Chesky, one of the founders of Airbnb, said its hosts in 2023 will face more pressures, such as the resurgence of hotels, as well as a more price-sensitive market.

But hosts can take heart that Australia continues to be on travellers’ hit lists as a go-to destination, with Sydney, Melbourne and Perth appearing in the top trending travel spots for 2023 international travel.

SUSAN HELY (Airbnb host and user)

The fallout from a spate of natural disasters and rising inflation is helping to drive up the cost of home and contents insurance, with nearly two-thirds of homeowners reporting an increase in premiums over the past year.

That’s according to a survey conducted by comparison website Finder, which found that 63% of respondents had seen the cost of their insurance rise during 2022, compared with 22% of people who hadn’t faced an increase and 14% who were unaware of any change.

Despite the hikes, just 11% of those surveyed said they had changed insurers even though, notes Finder insurance expert James Martin, switching can secure a better deal.

“The best deals are typically offered to new customers when they sign up online,” he says.

“Insurers often offer discounts of up to 30% for new customers, so it absolutely pays to shop around each year.

“You can also call your insurer and ask them to pricematch or give you the best possible deal.

“It doesn’t always work, but it’s worth a shot – they’ll often do what they can to keep your business.”

TOM WATSON

The Central Coast health workforce has been boosted with 123 new graduate nurses and midwives beginning their careers at Gosford and Wyong hospitals this year.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast Adam Crouch said they are among a record 3,600 nurses and midwives set to commence working across 130 NSW public hospitals and health services.

“The work that nurses and midwives do is at the very heart of the public health system, caring for people in our hospitals, at home and in our communities,” Crouch said.

“The commitment, compassion and skills they bring to the role make a huge

123 new nurses and midwives

difference and contribute greatly to the health and wellbeing of the people across our region.

“I am incredibly pleased to welcome the new recruits to the Central Coast Health District and know that they will make a big difference to the health and wellbeing of our community.”

Minister for Regional Health Bronnie Taylor said more than a third of the record number of graduates beginning their careers with NSW Health have chosen to work in rural and regional hospitals.

“It is so wonderful to see so many nurses and midwives either choosing to move to the bush or returning home so they can care for their communities,” Taylor said.

“As someone who spent the best part of their nursing career at a regional hospital, I know the skills and experience these new nurses will gain will set them up for success into their future nursing career.

“On behalf of our regional communities, I am thrilled to welcome this next generation of nurses and midwives and wish all our new starters the very best of luck as they embark on their new career.”

The latest statewide intake of graduate nurses and midwives is an 18 per cent increase on last year and the largest intake of any state or territory in Australia.

Source: Media release, Feb 14 Parliamentary Secretary for the

New COVID boosters available this month

New COVID-19 booster shots will be available for adults from February 20.

People will be eligible for a booster shot if they are over 18 and haven’t had COVID-19 or a booster shot in the past six months (from August 20, 2022).

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid said adults eligible or at risk of severe illness should consider getting the booster.

New outdoor lighting for Umina PS

Umina Beach Public School has been allocated $22,000 from the 2022 Community Building Partnership Program for outdoor lighting to improve access, safety and security.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said outdoor lighting is integral to school communities.

“The installation of outdoor lighting is important to ensuring that communities can gather safely,” she said.

“Well done to the P&C for its

efforts in receiving this funding; I know outdoor lighting will play a major role in expanding its abilities to host whole-school events outside of school hours.”

P&C President Lucy Lamont said the outdoor lighting would help create an environment that promotes safety for the school community beyond the normal school hours.

“When we bring our kids together, it’s important that it is in a safe environment, so being

able to host evets outside of the classroom and socialise with other students safely is a big addition,” she said.

Tesch also congratulated the P&C on recently being named NSW P&C Association of the Year.

“It is fantastic that we have such high calibre P&Cs right here on the Central Coast,” she said.

Source: Media release, Feb 13

“If you are an adult at risk of severe illness from contracting COVID-19, it is strongly recommended you get the booster,” he said.

“It is important we continue to take measures to keep our community safe from COVID-19, including washing our hands, covering our mouths when coughing or sneezing, and staying up to date with our COVID-19 vaccines.”

The booster is not available to children aged under 18, unless

a child aged 5-17 is at risk of severe illness.

The new Omicron-specific booster is free and available at pharmacies, GPs, and community health centres.

Visit the https://www.health. gov.au/resources/apps-andtools/covid-19-vaccine-clinicfinder for a list of all COVID-19 vaccine providers in Australia.

Source: Media release, Feb 14

Central Coast Adam Crouch

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast Adam Crouch with some of the new health workers

Member for Gosford Liesl

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid

Eligible adults are encouraged to have another booster

Report highlights nine years of Medicare “neglect” – Reid

Member for Robertson

Gordon Reid says the recent release of the Federal Government’s Strengthening Medicare Taskforce Report highlights the “neglect” of Medicare over the past nine years by the former Liberal Government.

“The release of the (report) has highlighted what nine years of neglect and mismanagement does to our health infrastructure,” Reid said.

“The report outlines that the former government’s freezing of the Medicare rebate for six years, cuts to healthcare, and lack of action to address low numbers of medical students selecting general practice have led to a decline in the rate of bulk billing, gap fees going up, and difficulties even getting in to see a doctor.

“I know first-hand, and continue to understand, the struggles people on the Central Coast are experiencing trying to access affordable healthcare.”

As a doctor, Reid has worked in hospital emergency departments in the region.

“People tell me often that they cannot access or afford to see a GP, and this is directly linked to the former government’s Medicare rebate freeze and its unwillingness to encourage more medical students to select general practice,” he said.

“Consequently, we then have more people presenting to emergency departments, overstretching our hospital

system.”

Reid said as the party which created Medicare, Labor was determined to protect and strengthen it.

“To start addressing these issues, the Government has allocated $750M to strengthen Medicare and give it muchneeded resuscitation,” he said.

Reid said one important element would be the roll-out of Medicare Urgent Care Clinics, which will be bulk billed, open seven days, and

have extended operating hours, with two pledged for the Central Coast – one in the south of the region and one in the north.

The report gives a raft of recommendations based around the core aims of increasing access to primary care, promoting team-based care, modernising primary care and supporting change management and cultural change.

Among key recommendations to improve access are:

providing funding for longer GP consultations; strengthening relationships between GPs and care teams; developing new funding models for remote practices; investing in Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs); strengthening funding to support more affordable care, improving access to primary care in the after-hours period; and increasing the availability of primary care services for urgent care needs.

In the interests of promoting team-based care, recommendations include: fast-tracking the work to improve the supply and distribution of varied health care workers including GPs; working with states and territories to review barriers and incentives; and supporting local health system integration and person-centred care through Primary Health Networks (PHNs) working with hospitals, GPS, pharmacies and other health bodies.

To modernise primary care,

the report recommends: modernising the My Health Record to increase the health information available; better connecting health data across all parts of the health system; investing in better health data for research and evaluation of models of care; providing more primary care IT infrastructure, education and support; and making it easier for Australians to access, manage, understand and share their own health information.

The report also recommends: putting consumers and communities at the centre of primary care policy design and delivery; learning from both international and local best practice, and investing in research on primary care excellence; working with providers to help them effectively manage change and transition to new ways of working; supporting the continued development of practice management as a profession; and implementing a staged approach to reform.

Terry Collins

Landcare grants for young environmental champions

Landcare Australia and Woolworths are on the lookout for primary schools and early learning centres with ideas to connect young people with nature and inspire them to play an active role in the safe future of their environment.

The latest round of the Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants program is now open, offering the chance to share in $1M to support the development of hands-on environmental learning projects.

Grants of up to $1,000 are on offer for projects focussed on sustainable food production, improving waste management practices, enhancing native habitats and deepening First Nations perspectives. This could include planting native herbs and plants, helping children learn more about different species of plants, and

their connection to the land and its people.

Woolworths Bateau Bay, Lake

Haven, Lake Munmorah and Tuggerah Group Manager, Belinda Page,said that getting children involved with handson activities in and around nature was an incredible way to help them explore sustainability in action.

“Over the years, we’ve seen some great ideas from schools and early learning centres that were brought to life and encouraging kids to explore, appreciate and care for the environment around them.

“No idea is too small, and we can’t wait to see what’s ahead for this next round of applications,” Page said.

Through its junior program, Landcare Australia has also worked closely with First

Nations educator and Wiradjuri man, Adam Shipp, to develop environmental learning activities for educators and children to learn more about how they can have a connection to Country.

The activities range from exploring First Nations weather, to creating an Indigenous plant-use garden and exploring a First Nations peoples’ languages map.

“As a proud Wiradjuri man, I believe it is extremely important that environmental based organisations recognise and work with First Nations groups,” Shipp said.

“By teaching younger generations about traditional ways of caring for Country, we

can deepen knowledge of and respect for First Nations culture and practices.”

Landcare Australia CEO, Dr Shane Norrish,said Junior Landcare had always recognised the vital role children played in taking care of the natural environment.

“As we continue to grow the number of First Nations perspective resources on the Junior Landcare Learning Centre, we are thrilled to be able to support Wyong region children and educators in building their knowledge of Traditional Land Management and Cultural Heritage when it comes to caring for our land and water,” Norrish said.

Since launching the program in 2018, more than 3,820 school groups have been supported with more than $4M in funding to help children all across the country get handson with caring for the natural environment.

Applications for the 2023 Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants are open until March 17 and for more information go online to juniorlandcare.org.au and check out some of the creative ideas the program has already supported and get some tips to bring environmental education and First Nations perspectives into your school or early learning centre.

Source: Media release, Feb 10 Woolworths/Landcare Australia

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid looks over the report

School children learning about environmental sustainability

It’s been a week when the local markets have been flooded with flowers but have you considered growing your own cut flowers?

Not just to fill your garden with colour, perfume and beauty but for a focused harvest?

While it can be difficult to lop off the stems in your garden design, if you set up purposebuilt gardens, just as you would for say veggies, then it becomes a whole lot easier to cut down bunches of flowers. Don’t get me wrong, your harvestable flower crop will still add interest and colour to your garden!

Preparation

Just as you would any garden, you will need to make a plan. Factors to consider before deciding on which flowers to grow on your site include soil composition, light, access to water and possible environmental challenges such as wind and visitors that may become pests.

You may find you will need to

DOWN IN THE GARDEN:

GROWING CUT FLOWERS

adjust the soil to suit the flower type you have your heart set on growing but as a baseline, a rich, loamy soil that is high in organic matter and freedraining will be required.

Using raised garden beds, no dig mounds or just areas set aside for your cut flower growing adventure.

Planting

Cut flowers are just plants with purpose other than hanging out in your garden so a good idea is to plan for succession planting.

Popular with veggie garden growing, it involves planting out the same type of seed every couple of weeks for a period of time so that come harvest you have a continuous crop and are not overwhelmed with too much of one flower. Starting seeds off in planting cells rather than directly into the ground can help protect them from pests and environmental factors.

I’ve found it impossible to direct plant sunflowers for example as the birds and

GARDEN NEWS

ground creatures simply dig them up in my garden. Getting your flowers to a sturdy seedling stage while under protection saves time and resources.

Growing Care

All plants have different growing requirements so do your research to ensure that feeding, watering and general care are maintained.

You will also find that certain plants will need support via staking or a trellis and that light requirements will vary. For your own and the environment’s health, use only organic methods of pest and disease control.

Following the advice for individual plant spacing, planting and care ensures healthier plants that are more resistant to challenges.

Pinching Out

How do you encourage your flowers to grow lots of blossoms? Well one way that is popular in the commercial industry is ‘pinching out’, but it can be more than a little

Bell’s Killcare Garden Tours - 11.00am - 12.00pm Friday 24th February

We invite you to meander through our abundant kitchen gardens with Megan, whilst learning about our organic growing techniques, Closed Loop Composting System, and see what we have growing and why! $15 per person includes a coffee/tea & pastry from Bells Bakery on arrival. Bookings essential and numbers limited to small groups. For further details or to book: email reservations@bellsatkillcare.com.au or phone 4349-7000

Come and Share My Garden, Niagara Park - 10 – 11am Saturday 25th February

$15 per person. Join Carin Clegg, Dietitian and Eco-Warrior in a short tour of her permaculture designed garden. There is a lot to see and talk about so discussion will be guided on the group. You will get a few packets of seeds and plant cuttings of your choice. Bring your own jar if you would like to take home some plant cuttings. A share table will be available so please bring any garden related items you wish to give away, share or swap. Plant sales will be available by cash sales only. Address will be emailed to you prior to the event. Info and booking call Carin on 0407 492 278

Woy Woy Produce Swap - 10 – 11am 26th February at Woy Woy Peninsula Community Garden. 85 -87 Moana Street, Woy Woy

It is a very casual affair and nobody keeps score. By bringing your produce you are saying that you are happy for other swappers to take what they need because it is excess to your needs. It is simply a way of sharing the food you have grown with the fellow growers in your neighbourhood and a great way to meet local gardeners.

GARDENING PLANNER

This week you could plant: culinary herbs, beans (dwarf), beetroot, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbages, carrot, cauliflower, celery, chicory, cress, endive, kohlrabi, leeks, lettuce, mustard, onions (spring), parsnips, peas, potatoes (tubers), radishes, rhubarb (crowns), salsify, shallots, silverbeet, spinach, turnips, alyssum, calendula, candytuft, Canterbury bells, cineraria, coneflower, delphinium, dianthus, everlasting daisy, forget-me-not, foxglove, godetia, gypsophila, hollyhock, honesty, larkspur, linaria, lobelia, lupin, nasturtium, nigella, pansy, poppy (Iceland), primula, statice, stock, verbena, vinca, viola, wallflower

Cheralyn Darcey is a horticulture author and along with Pete Little, hosts ‘At Home with The Gardening Gang’ 8 - 10am live every Saturday on CoastFM96.3, on air locally or streaming by asking ‘play coastfm963’

Archived articles: florasphere.com

Send your gardening questions, events, and news to: gardeningcentralcoast@gmail.com

daunting.

Only suitable for some multi steamed annuals, it encourages the plant to produce more branches from its base and flowers that will also have longer stems.

When your plants are over 20cm in height, take off the top 8cm just above a set of leaves.

Flowers that this method is most suitable for include dahlias, cosmos, branching sunflowers, snapdragons, amaranth and zinnias. Double check first to see if this method is suitable with your flower selection.

Harvest

Picking your flowers at the right time will mean that they last longer which is especially important if you are planning on giving or selling them.

Harvest most before the flowers are fully opened as this will mean a longer life.

Of course, it is good garden practice to leave some of your crop standing for the pollinators and for seed saving.

Harvest in the early morning when flowers are most hydrated.

Remove all foliage that may sit below the waterline and place them straight into a bucket of cool, clean water.

Let them sit for a few hours before arranging or bundling for sale.

What to Plant Now

As we are coming into autumn the following are suggestions of what can be planted now. These are by no means the only flowers but will get you started.

Plant seeds of Amaranth, Asters, Black-Eyed Susans, Chrysanthemums, Chinese Lanterns, Japanese Anemone and Sunflowers.

Spring flowering bulbs can also be planted such as tulips, daffodils, jonquils, freesias, iris and hyacinth.

Growing Flowers LocallySuzie German

image: Suzie German One person who is growing cut flowers successfully is local Permaculture Gardener Suzie German of Hidden Valley Harvest Edible Flowers.

She has a passion for edible

flowers and this season is growing zinnias, marigolds, dahlias, cornflowers and snapdragons to name just a few but Suzie also reminds us of another source, “We often forget that our herbs and vegetables have flowers as well and these can all be used.” While it will depend on the season right now Suzie suggests that sunflowers can be planted now as can Zinnias.

“Coming is all sorts of colours and shapes including the flashy double pom-pom zinnias or there are lower growing varieties.

Just two of many that grow well here on the Central Coast” All flowers are important in the garden she says whether for eating or pleasure as that they provide an important role for the environment, especially for our pollinators. You can find Suzie on Facebook: Hidden Valley Harvest Edible Flowers.

Little Ruby or Little Maroon is a great ground over with standout foliage a perfect addition to your garden

Cordylines add a wonderful tropical feel to your garden with so many varieties available you

CHERALYN DARCEY

Suzie German

Putting more smiles on dials at disabled surfing day

Following a recordbreaking February event, Central Coast Disabled Surfers Association (DSACC) will hold another Smiles on Dials event at Umina Beach on March 4 from 9am-1pm.

A huge turn-up saw 51 surfers and 152 volunteers at the February event, allowing the organisation to put five boards in the water.

“This was a record for our branch,” a spokesperson said.

“We are hoping to replicate these volunteer numbers in March as we already have had 52 surfers register their interest

in attending.

“We need large volunteer numbers to make their experience safe and enjoyable.”

Interested volunteers are asked to register online via Humanitix bit.ly/March4Umina prior to the event so surfer numbers can be calculated.

Volunteers, who will also be accepted on the day, do not need to know how to surf although water skills are highly valued.

A water refill station and a rash shirt will be provided for the day, but volunteers are encouraged to bring their own wetsuits.

A sausage sizzle will complete

the festivities.

Volunteering at a Smiles on Dials event consists of helping participants to and from the beach, assisting them in and out of the water and helping set up and clean up.

Food is provided and smiles are always encouraged.

DSACC is a volunteer-run organisation which enables people of all ages and abilities to take part in one of Australia’s most popular past-times, beach surfing.

Volunteers provide a unique, safe, and happy surfing experience to a wide range of people with various disabilities who would otherwise be unable

to access the beach.

There is a high volunteer to participant ratio, with a minimum of 6 to 1 up to as high as 30 to 1 for more challenging participants.

Surfing is conducted in broken waves, in waist depth water.

The DSA was established in 1986 and currently has 19 branches across Australia and New Zealand.

For more information on DSA go to disabledsurfers.org.

Making Coast sports fields more female friendly

Two Central Coast sporting facilities will share almost $500,000 in funding thanks to the NSW Government’s $25M Female Friendly Sport Facilities and Lighting Upgrades Program.

Central Coast Hockey Association (CCHA) will receive $165,974 to upgrade the lighting on its east pitch at Wyong Hockey Complex and Mingara Recreation Club has been granted $333,000 for a lighting and bathroom upgrade at its athletics track.

Mingara Recreation Club CEO Paul Barnett said he was “very excited” by the project and pleased to be supported by the Government.

“The lighting now in place is more than 20 years old and very

expensive to operate and repair,” he said.

“To be able to replace this with LED lighting is a great thing.

“The new lighting will be more efficient, provide better lighting for night time events and allow us to open up more events to sporting groups.

“We have had to knock back some women’s soccer games in the past.”

Barnett said the project would be a mammoth undertaking involving the installation not only of the lights themselves, but also 4,080 metres of cabling.

“It’s a substantial job – this is a big deal,” he said.

Barnett said upgrades to the female amenities would encourage a broader range of women’s sporting events at the

facility.

The funding is three to one, with the club itself contributing more than $100,000 to the project.

Central Coast Hockey Association (CCHA) President Brett Johnson said the association had recently paid $180,000 to upgrade lighting on Wyong Hockey Complex’s first field and the grant money would now see the second field brought up to date.

“The lighting we have in place at the moment is at least 20 years old,” he said.

“We are at the point where we need to replace it but they don’t make the parts any more.

“Upgrading to LED lighting will

improve the standard of hockey we play and represent significant cost savings for our members, with our electricity bill traditionally $40,000 per annum.”

Johnson said the current state of the lighting was unsafe.

“We run a ladies comp on Wednesday nights and it is important for safety that we have decent lighting on the field when they play,” he said.

Premier Dominic Perrottet said 94 community sport facilities are set to be transformed, delivering femalefriendly change rooms, amenities and lighting upgrades, which is one of the biggest barriers that prevent women

and girls from playing sport.

“The NSW Government recognises the critical role local sport infrastructure plays in keeping our communities healthy and active,” Perrottet said.

“Community sport is where it all begins, and by investing in our local communities to help boost female participation, we will ensure any young girl or woman who wants to shoot a hoop, score a try or kick a goal, can do so in a supportive environment.”

Treasurer Matt Kean said since 2017 the Government has committed more than $1B to deliver new and upgraded community sport facilities.

“Women’s sport is booming in NSW and this program will deliver the facilities women and girls need and deserve,” he said.

“This ground-breaking program will level the playing field by improving facilities that for decades have been predominately used by men, but now cater for a growing number of women’s and girls’ sporting teams.”

Minister for Sport Alister

Henskens said major events including the recent FIBA Women’s World Cup and upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup are creating enormous excitement and inspiring the next generation of female sporting stars.

“Whether it’s on the court, field or track, we continue to be inspired by our homegrown talent like Ellyse Perry, Lauren Jackson, and Madison de Rozario who are captivating the nation with their extraordinary athleticism and passion,” Henskens said.

“The Government’s investment in community sport infrastructure is improving facilities for women and girls, and boosting female participation in sport, in line with our Her Sport Her Way strategy.”

Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor said when women and girls feel comfortable, they are more likely to stick with their chosen sport.

“Some of the biggest barriers faced by women and girls are the lack of female change rooms and amenities,” she said.

Terry Collins

Brisbane Water Cricket Club on a roll

The Brisbane Water Cricket Club is set to receive a new pitch roller thanks to $28,000 in funding through the 2022 Community Building Partnership Program.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said the roller would improve pitch conditions for all teams, including a new women’s team and juniors.

“It is great to know that the club will be able to provide a quality pitch,” she said.

“Coasties should have the access to good quality sporting grounds (and) grant will ensure that players have access to a high calibre pitch.

“It’s important to have a fair

and safe environment which can only be done by quality equipment.”

Club President Ken Pieroz said the grant would ensure the club could provide “a true level playing field”.

“Without this funding, we’d be struggling,” he said. Those who want to get involved in the club should go to www.bwcc.nsw. cricket.com.au.

Source: Media release, Feb 13 Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch

Mingara Recreation Club’s athletics track is set for a major lighting upgrade

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch hands over the cheque to club representatives

Source: Media release, Feb 14 Central Coast Disabled Surfers Association

The next event will be held on March 4 at Umina Beach

Two of the region’s most promising young volunteers were named male and female Newcastle Permanent Junior Lifesavers of the Year during the Central Coast Branch Age Championships at Avoca Beach on February 12.

Rebecca Lawer from Ocean Beach Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) and Samuel Terry from Soldiers Beach SLSC took out the honours.

Newcastle Permanent Branch Manager Lorraine Gould said SLSCs are true assets to the community as she presented the awards.

“Our SLSCs not only ensure everyday Aussies are safe at the beach, they’re helping to mould and shape the next generation of exceptional young people,” she said.

“Rebecca and Samuel are already contributing to their clubs and communities.

“They’ve both earned their surf rescue certificates, so are

Our top young lifesavers recognised

already going out on patrol, and are both keen to further their education and help promote more youth involvement in surf lifesaving.

“They are two exceptional young people and very worthy of this recognition.”

Surf Life Saving Central Coast (SLSCC) Director of Youth, Amy Fletcher, said the young people were evidence the future of surf lifesaving is in good hands.

“Our clubs and community should feel extremely proud of Rebecca and Samuel,” she said.

“We’re always keen for more youth members and we hope these two wonderful members inspire young surf lifesavers across our branches.

“We are also grateful for the continued support of Newcastle Permanent, our partners on the Central Coast for more than 20 years.”

Fletcher said Rebecca joined SLS in 2019 and has proven herself to be a wonderful team member, who values such vital

FOOTBALL

The Central Coast Mariners have pulled off a pivotal 1-2 win in their A-League game against the Brisbane Roar at Kayo Stadium in Brisbane on Friday night.

The local side has stumbled through the last few games despite a robust attacking style of football and a squad brimming full of talent and team commitment.

This win has also restored the Mariners to the second spot on the A-League ladder with 26 points, as is Adelaide United, the Mariners above thanks to their superior goal difference.

The Mariners took the lead in the 18th minute with a scramble in the box after new recruit James McGarry curled a nice corner in, Storm Roux with the

qualities as effort and persistence.

“Smart, dedicated and hardworking, Rebecca is generous with her time, helping out around the club,” she said.

“Rebecca is also an advocate

for sun safety, who would love to see skin cancer clinics set up on our beaches to provide check-ups of patrol members and the general public.”

Samuel joined SLS in under 11s and Fletcher said he

Mariners bounce back in

second touch who spotted it to Marco Tulio to finish the job.

The Brisbane home side picked up what could be best described as a sympathy penalty when Tulio was deemed to have fouled Carlo Armiento in the box by the ref.

The successful penalty shot made the scores one-all, a scoreline that stayed that way until halftime.

After the break, both sides came out swinging, with chances of the match going either way.

Mariners midfielder Max Ballard almost scored with his shot from the top of the box, blocked by some desperate Brisbane defence.

Then just as the frustration peaked the Mariners were awarded a penalty in the 65th minute when Dan Hall was

clipped by Roar’s Scott Neville. Neville tried to clear the ball, yet clearly connected with Hall’s leg. Another VAR moment extended the decision and was upheld, with Beni Nkololo given the task to take the spot shot.

The lanky Frenchman

quickly made an impression around his club with his keen attitude and friendly nature.

“Respectful of his trainers, Samuel soaks up all they have to teach him and is only too willing to pass on advice to the

Brisbane

young nippers in the club,” Fletcher said.

“A beach lover who wants to help others enjoy our sand and surf too, Samuel wants to see more people learn the vital lessons required to stay safe at the beach.

“People like Rebecca and Samuel perform a critical duty to keep us all safe as we enjoy the Aussie summer.”

Central Coast Branch has 15 clubs, from Umina Beach to The Lakes, each of which is eligible to nominate a female and male for the award.

The winners are judged on their written application and an interview with the judges.

“I should also mention that Rebecca and Samuel staved off some serious competition for their awards – all the nominees for the 2023 award were exceptional candidates who can hold their heads up high,” Gould said.

Source:

Media release, February 13, 2023

Surf Life Saving Central Coast

time awarded the game was not over by any means as the Mariners’ defensive line held strong, notably without their key backstop Brian Kaltak on a one match suspension.

Three hard fought game points eventually went the way of the Central Coast team, making up for recent losses and keeping the smallest team in the ISUZU A-League in contention for a strong tilt at finals football come the end of the regular season.

converted with a trademark cool shot, calmly pushing the penalty over the line into the bottom right corner.

The Mariners’ 1 -2 lead over their hometown rivals gave the game a new energy with 20 minutes of regular time yet to

Car Boot Sale

play.

The Roar threw everything into the game, spurred on by the home crowd, while the Mariners team characteristically held their cool composure, starving off all opportunities of equalising.

With seven minutes of extra

The Mariners team now head west to play Perth Glory in a late night 10 pm game on Saturday at HBF Park aka Perth Rectangular Stadium.

The next home game at Gosford’s Industree Group Stadium will be against New Zealand’s Wellington Pheonix on Friday, Feb 24 at 7.45 pm.

David Abrahams

Michelle Densem of Newcastle Permanent, Samuel Terry, Rebecca Lawer and Newcastle Permanent Branch Manager Lorraine Gould

CC Mariners players Nectarious Tiantis (left) and Marco Tulio celebrate after the win

Image: CCM Media

BASKETBALL

Representative teams from all over NSW travelled to the Central Coast recently to compete in four venues across the region in the lead-up to the Junior Premier League basketball tournament.

The Coastal Classic showcased saw some of the state’s fiercest junior competitors with teams coming from far and wide for an opportunity to go home with

Bright young basketballers shine in Coastal Classic

bragging rights before the season officially tips off.

Central Coast Basketball Representative Coordinator Killi Akamarmoi said not only was the Classic a great opportunity to catch a peek at the competition and prepare for the approaching season, but it was also a great way for teams to understand themselves ahead of a demanding year of basketball.

“With players starting at different ages and skill groups, it’s rare that teams will be

entirely familiar with each other year in and year out,” Akamarmoi said.

“The Coastal Classic is the ideal way for players to build a culture and establish who they are and what they want as a collective before the season begins.”

The Central Coast Rebels and their friendly rivals the Central Coast Waves played host to a number of teams coming from as far afield as Coffs Harbor and Sydney, all gunning for the opportunity knock the hosts off

on their own court.

The Rebels did not disappoint, taking home the gold in the Under 18 Women’s Division 2, Under 14 Men’s Division 1 and Under 18 Men’s Division 1 pools with the Under 18 Men going undefeated led by one of the state’s brightest rising stars, Dylan Tea.

The Under 18 Women’s Division 1 squad came up just short, going down to the Newcastle Falcons in a heated final.

Central Coast Basketball General Manager Matthew Tredrea said he was thrilled with the future implications for basketball in the region.

“It was a huge honor for both Rebels teams to reach the final of their home tournament in their last year of junior representative basketball along with their junior counterparts and it shows the level of depth on the Central Coast,” Tredrea said.

“The level of homegrown talent our senior representative

program has to choose from cannot be overstated.

“The future of basketball on the Central Coast is bright.”

With the Central Coast Crusaders approaching their second season in the new NBL 1 East league, it’s safe to say that the Central Coast is among the trail-blazers in Australian basketball as it continues to become one of the nation’s fastest growing sports.

Wade raises the Barr at junior triathlon nationals

Central Coast local Wade Barr became National Junior Male Triathlon Champion at the recent Australian Youth and Junior Super Sprint Triathlon Championships held in Canberra.

The event saw almost 200 of the nation’s best junior triathletes battle through multiple events for the National Title.

Four days of back to back racing led into the finals, with athletes accumulating times over the multiple events to win a berth in the A final.

The first event was a 1500m grass track run, followed by two Hypersprint Triathlons

which included an enduro style format.

The next event was an aquathlon in the morning which included a hill climb run to the finish line and a fast paced Le Man Criterium in the afternoon.

Barr’s accumulated times put him into the A final.

He put in an outstanding swim to make the front pack on the bike.

With a large group transitioning together off the bike, Barr showed some great form to run away from the field in the last 800m of the race.

It was the first national title for Wade, who has been competing in the sport for only three years.

“It is surreal to take out this title,” Barr said.

“I am a younger athlete in the U19 field – this is my biggest success in sport so far.

“I have my HSC this year that I will focus on and fit in with training.

“I do want to pursue a career in the sport and look forward to seeing where it can take me.”

Barr’s coach, Robyn Low-Hart said it was a great achievement.

“We thought that a podium might be achievable (but) Wade pulled out an amazing final race to take the win.

“He has been progressing well in the sport over the last few years with two years in the Central Coast Academy of

Sport Triathlon Program and successful selection into the Triathlon NSW Emerging Talent Squad this year.

“Wade has been focussing on race specific demands and developing and fine tuning his skills.

“He has been working hard on run technique with his hard work evident in his results.”

Barr has another two national events this season and NSW All Schools Triathlon at the end of February, where he will aim to qualify to represent NSW at School Sport Australia Nationals in Devonport.

Photo: Kristen Russell

Source: Media release, Feb 10 Triathlon NSW Wade Barr was named National Junior Male Triathlon Champion

Dylan Tea led the Under 18 Men to victory

Stefan Kataric

Tip-off from the Women’s final

Photo: Kristen Russell