Coast Community News 385

Crouch retains Terrigal despite huge swing

Kariong skate park opens in time for Easter

See page 5

See page 4

Two Coast MPs appointed to Minns Ministry

Two Central Coast MPs have been appointed as Ministers in the new Labor State Government.

The Central Coast will have its own dedicated Minister for the first time since 2015, with Member for Wyong David Harris appointed to the position.

Harris will also take on the portfolios of Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty, Gaming and Racing, Veterans and Medical Research.

The last Minister for the Central Coast was Rob Stokes.

In 2015, the Liberal State Government appointed instead a Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, which position was held until 2019 by Scott MacDonald, and from 2019-2023 by Adam Crouch.

Harris, who served as Shadow

Minister for the Central Coast, for Jobs Investment and Tourism and for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty from 2019 with the Labor Opposition, thanked Premier Chris Minns for his

confidence in appointing him to multiple portfolios.

“I understand the importance of being tasked with driving gaming reform in NSW and undertaking a

consultation with First Nations People to determine a future pathway to Treaty and agreement making,” he said.

“It is such an honour that would not have been possible without the Wyong electorate having faith in me.

“The recent election result was so amazing.”

Harris said he felt privileged to serve “such a wonderful area” and committed to ensuring the Central Coast has a loud voice in the new Labor Government.

Member for Swansea Yasmin Catley has also been appointed to the Minns Ministry, taking on the responsibility of Minister for Police and Counter Terrorism.

Continued page 4

Coast Community News will take a break over Easter. Our next issue will be out on April 20.

Zooperheroes fun at the reptile park

See page 17

Program of works to help stormwater flow

See page 21

Avoca Beach kayaker takes gold at nationals

See page 32

Puzzles page 18

Member for Wyong David Harris has been appointed to multiple portfolios

Member for Swansea Yasmin Catley will be the state’s first female Police Minister

Adam Crouch confirms his victory on April 2

Incumbent Liberal MP Adam Crouch has narrowly retained the seat of Terrigal after surviving a swing to Labor candidate Sam Boughton of almost 12 per cent.

FOLLOW, SUBSCRIBE, LIKE ...

Twitter: @CoastComNews

YouTube: Central Coast Community News

Instagram: @centralcoast.news

Facebook: @coastcommunitynews

SEND US A STORY

CCN encourages “community journalism”, including story leads, citizen reports, media releases & letters to the Editor.

All contributions should be emailed to: editorial@ centralcoastnews.net

CCN reserves the right to use, or

Five

generations celebrate Joyce’s 93rd

When Joyce Mueller turned 90 in 2020, the family was unable to celebrate with her due to COVID-19 restrictions.

However, they made up for it when five generations travelled from Sydney, Queensland and Canberra to join local family members in marking her 93rd birthday in style with a huge family gathering at Diggers Ettalong recently.

Born at Revesby in March 1930, Joyce was one of 15 children.

Joyce enjoyed many happy times there, sharing her great love of fishing for flatheads from the beach and jewfish and catching buckets of crabs with her grandchildren during holidays.

She was always up for a glass or two of her favourite drop of Passion Pop.

When her husband died in 1997, Joyce sold up and moved to Central Coast to be close to family.

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

Graphic Designer: Brad Yee

Distribution: Anthony Wagstaff

Phone: (02) 4325 7369

Email to: editorial@centralcoastnews.net

ISSN 1839-9045 – Print Post Approved – PP100001843 – Printed by Spotpress Marrickville

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 28,000 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

After the war she met a young man, Ludwig Mueller, and they married in 1958.

The couple moved to Queanbeyan, where Joyce did dressmaking and alterations for many years before becoming head of haberdashery for JB Youngs, then Grace Bros department store.

Her avid love of flowers and plants has seen her win Garden of the Year awards many times.

When they retired, the Muellers built a new home in Shoal Bay, Port Stephens.

She now lives in a retirement village with her pet water dragon Dion, who lives in her pot plant and enjoys being fed blueberries.

Lorikeets also visit daily for their dinner.

Joyce still has a great love for her plants and garden and helps her neighbours with theirs.

“Joy, as her name suggests, is what she brings to everyone who meets and loves her,” granddaughter Linda Kennedy said.

Marine Rescue warns boaters to be prepared

Marine Rescue NSW is urging all boaters be extra careful when they’re out on the state’s waterways this Easter long weekend.

Marine Rescue volunteers across the state have conducted 1,675 rescue missions in the first three months this year and MRNSW Commissioner Alex Barrell is hoping boaters play their role to avoid incidents.

In February alone, volunteers at Marine Rescue’s 46 units across NSW were involved in 478 rescues, with Hunter/ Central Coast’s Lake Macquarie unit experiencing the highest demand in the state.

The unit undertook 80 rescues including numerous missions for grounded and disabled vessels.

The Central Coast unit undertook 26 rescues, the fourth highest figure in the

state’s 15 units.

Marine Rescue NSW has seen an increase in demand for its service across the state with volunteers completing 52 per cent more rescues in February 2023 than they did during the same month last year.

Barrell has appealed to boaters to ensure they are well prepared with 39 per cent of rescues during February caused by engine failure.

“Sadly many boaters are finishing their day on the water early and at the end of a tow line behind one of our rescue

AVOIDING ESTATE PLANNING TRAPS

vessels,” he said.

“Many of these rescues could have been avoided with some careful planning and better boat maintenance and preparation.”

More than 6,600 boaters logged on with Marine Rescue NSW prior to heading out on the water in February.

“It only takes a moment to protect your life,” Barrell said. “Boaters can log on and log off via VHF Channel 16 or by using the Marine Rescue NSW app.”

Barrell said boaters thinking of heading out should ensure that their vessel’s engine and battery had been recently serviced, and they are carrying enough of fuel for the journey with plenty in reserve.

Source: Marine Rescue NSW

Moore Seminar Series, this free public seminar is being given by Brazel Moore Lawyers to help people understand what to expect so they know where they stand in –

• Making a Will

• Challenging a Will or defending a Will from challenge

• Making a Power of Attorney and

• Making an Appointment of Guardian

The seminar will be presented in a friendly relaxed atmosphere and there will be plenty of time for your questions.

You’ll be helped a lot in understanding the system and will then be able to confidently consider what Estate Planning steps you need to take to properly plan for your own Will, Power of Attorney or Appointment of Guardian.

Call 4324 7699 to reserve your spot now!

Hunter/Central Coast’s Lake Macquarie unit experienced the highest demand in the state

Terry Collins

Five generations: Joyce Mueller with daughter Linda Kennedy, grandson Anthony Kennedy, great grand-daughter Tanara Kennedy and great-greatgrandson Harvey Thomas Smith

New government announces major review of rail network

Central Coast MPs have welcomed an announcement that the new State Government is set to launch a comprehensive and independent Rail Infrastructure and Systems Review to investigate repeated shutdowns, cancellations and delays.

In recent weeks, Coasties have been left stranded by major network breakdowns, beginning with a collapse of the digital train radio system on March 8 which brought the whole network to a standstill during the afternoon peak period.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said the recent train situation was “absolutely disastrous for the many Coasties who travel to work every day and rely on the transport system”.

“It is evident that years of poor maintenance of our railway infrastructure is beginning to show and Transport Minister Jo Haylen is already on the job looking at a solutions-based approach,” she said.

“We have already committed to delivering more express services by conducting a

review of both the Sydney metropolitan network and the wider NSW Trains network.

Member for Swansea Yasmin Catley said the review would be hugely important.

“This … (will) help deliver reliability for passengers and ensure the network is improved as soon as possible,” she said.

The review is to be conducted by former National Transport Commission Chair, Carolyn

Walsh.

It follows a number of key transport infrastructure failures, including three in the past month alone.

The March 8 incident saw a total rail network standstill with school children, travellers and commuters left high and dry when all trains across the entire city network were at a standstill from about 3pm to 4.30pm, with huge delays

throughout the rest of the evening.

NSW Transport Management Centre spokesperson, Derrick Peterson, said the situation arose after the failure of the digital radio system which train controllers use to communicate with rail crews.

While former Premier Dominic Perrottet apologised for the chaos just weeks out from the State election and promised a

free day of travel as compensation, rail users are still waiting for details.

The Government said at the time that an internal investigation had been initiated to get to the bottom of the problems but there has been no further word on the situation.

On March 10, 500 people were stuck on a train for 90 minutes when a catenary wire break at Panania caused delays

across the broader network.

And on March 25, multiple signal failures in the Strathfield area brought the network in that section to a standstill, causing delays across the network that afternoon and evening.

The inquiry will also make recommendations as to how to implement rapid and durable solutions and reforms to address the issues.

Transport Minister Jo Haylen said it was clear the rail network was facing “significant issues”.

“Passengers have faced shutdowns, cancellations and delays across the network and on-time running is the worst it has been since the pandemic,” she said.

“Passengers have been left on platforms, and the people who run our transport system are frustrated because they haven’t been listened to.”

Haylen said the new government had wasted no time in going ahead with the review so services and reliability for passengers could be improved as soon as possible.

Terry Collins

Passengers were stranded at Gosford station on March 8

Crouch retains Terrigal despite huge swing to Labor

Incumbent Liberal MP

Adam Crouch has narrowly retained the seat of Terrigal after surviving a swing to Labor candidate Sam Boughton of almost 12 per cent.

In one of the most closely fought battles of the March 25 State election, residents were kept on their edge of their seats as the vote count proceeded through the week.

Although political pundits originally predicted a Labor win on election night, the tide turned as the pre-poll and postal vote count continued.

A Liberal victory was announced on Saturday, April 1.

As of Sunday morning, April 2, with 83.17 per cent of the vote counted, Crouch was sitting on 51.5 per cent of the two-party preferred vote and Boughton on 48.5 per cent with a vote difference of just over 1,200 and an 11.65 per cent swing to Labor.

With all four of the other Central Coast seats having been retained by incumbent Labor MPs, Crouch will continue as the region’s sole Liberal MP.

He has been the Central Coast’s only Liberal State MP for the past eight years – the difference now being that he will also be the region’s only MP not a member of the

governing Party.

Crouch said he had remained positive throughout a “roller coaster ride” of a week in hoping for a win at the polls.

“On election night, more than 13,000 pre-poll votes had not been counted,” he said.

“There was still an enormous number of votes out there and I was incredibly humbled to be returned to serve the residents of Terrigal for another four years.”

Crouch said he had received a phone call from Boughton on Saturday conceding defeat.

“It was the first time in three elections I had received a concession call and I think that’s worth noting,” he said.

“Sam Boughton ran a very good campaign.”

Crouch said the large statewide swing to Labor did not

come as a complete surprise.

“A lot of people forget the huge landslide victory for the Liberals in 2011,” he said.

“When there are swings at a state level they tend to be very large.

“Sadly some of my colleagues have not retained their seats.

“It’s a reminder you can never take any vote for granted – and I didn’t.”

Crouch said with a minority Minns Labor Government now leading the state, his focus would be on securing delivery of regional funding promised to the Coast by the former government.

“One of the things that concerns me is that there have been no announcements in this election cycle about important regional funding received under the former government,” he said.

“The Coast received millions of dollars of regional grant funding (in the last term).

“The Seniors travel card alone brings $11.5M into the region and that’s just one program.

“The government has made no commitment to continue any of that funding – we need reinforcement of our regional funding.”

Crouch said upgrades of Central Coast Hwy and the Pacific Hwy through Wyong were just two projects he would champion through to completion.

“This investment into roads and key pieces of infrastructure has to continue – this vital infrastructure pipeline must be seen through,” he said.

“These funds have helped created an air of positivity in the region.”

Crouch said he had worked closely on several projects with Member for Wyong and newly announced Minister for the Central Coast, David Harris, whom he held “in the utmost regard”, and expected that to continue.

“I will be very happy to work with David Harris and the incoming government to ensure our region continues to get its fair share of regional funding,” he said.

“It’s not about being in Opposition – you have to work in a constructive way and there is a lot more to be done.

“Regardless who’s in government we all have to work together.”

Crouch said he looked forward to the delivery of a new artificial reef for the region this year, which he said would be an “economic bonanza”, and to

the construction of a new TAFE in Mann St, Gosford.

He said with a conditional contract of sale having been signed by Central Coast Council and TAFE, the responsibility for seeing the project through would now rest with the new government.

Crouch said he would continue to push for the Central Coast to be the first region to remove shark nets.

“I’m very passionate about that and have made my position on it very clear,” he said.

“I look forward to working with the incoming Agriculture Minister; the Central Coast is perfectly positioned to trail a removal of the nets.”

Boughton said he was proud of the result his small team had achieved, with even Party insiders surprised at the huge swing to Labor in the traditionally Liberal seat.

“It was only possible because so many people devoted their time and effort into the campaign, and I want to sincerely thank everyone involved,” he said.

“‘The swing that we saw in Terrigal was due the community feeling ignored on important local issues, as well as the broader state-wide issues in healthcare, education, the environment, and privatisation.”

Nashos spread Easter joy at Gosford Hospital

Patients at Gosford Hospital received a special Easter treat on April 5 when Members of the Gosford City Sub Branch of the NSW National Servicemen’s Association and Affiliates visited the hospital with baskets full of Easter goodies.

This year marks 25th year, the Nashos (as they are known) have held an Easter Egg Parade at Gosford Hospital, delighting hospital patients and staff with a friendly smile and chocolate treat.

President Alf Hill said the group always enjoys the special visit, delivering the goodies to the Children’s Ward,

Maternity Ward, Special Care Nursery and Emergency Department.

“Our members get as much joy out of the visit as the patients do, knowing that our special delivery really helps

cheer them up and lifts their spirits,” Hill said.

“It’s really rewarding to do what we do and to see the smiles on people’s faces when we visit, especially the little ones and their families we

meet in the Children’s Ward.”

A Central Coast Local Health District spokesperson said the annual Easter visit was always a highlight.

“We are grateful for the generosity of the Nashos who

continue to do this every year and bring a lot of joy to our patients, visitors and staff,” the spokesperson said.

“The Nashos Annual Easter visit is a time-honored tradition.

“It is quite extraordinary the difference this visit can make to a patient’s day.”

More than $300 worth of Easter bunnies were handed out, financed solely with donations from Nasho members.

The NSW National Servicemen’s Association and Affiliates is a voluntary organisation and has fundraised over the years for many charities and worthwhile causes, in addition to several

Terry Collins

national and global disasters that have occurred in recent times.

New members are always welcome at the Gosford City Sub Branch for lots of social fun and outings.

Ex-service people include former Army, Navy and Air Force personnel, as well as those who have served in the Police, Ambulance or Fire Services.

If interested, contact Secretary Greg Mawson at gmaw6809@bigpond.net.au.

Source: National Servicemen’s Association and Affiliates

Two Coast MPs appointed to Minns Ministry

From page 1 Catley said it was a great honour to serve as the state’s first female Police Minister.

“I look forward to working with NSW’s first female Police Commissioner Karen Webb, The NSW Police Association and all the fantastic men and women of the NSW Police force,” she said.

“For the first time in our state’s history we have a cabinet made up of 50 per cent women.

“With this, Premier Minns has demonstrated the respect Labor has for all women in NSW and the importance of women in leadership in the new Government.”

Announcing his full Ministry

this week, Premier Minns said the Government would hit the ground running to deliver its mandate from the people of NSW.

The Minns Ministry is a reduced Cabinet of 22 Ministers, 50 per cent of whom are women (excluding the Premier).

Women will take on the key

portfolios of Energy (Penny Sharpe), Police (Yasmin Catley), Regional NSW (Tara Moriarty), Finance (Courtney Houssos) and Regional Transport (Jennifer Aitchison).

For the first time in the state’s history, an Australian Minister was sworn in on the Bhagavad Gita (Daniel Mookhey) and a NSW Minister will be sworn in

on the Quran (Jihad Dib).

“I’m proud of the team we have,” Minns said.

“We have a lot of hard work in front of us, and a big responsibility, but my team and I are up to the challenge.

“We have a clear mandate from the people of NSW to rebuild our essential services, to invest in the people who look

after us – our nurses, teachers, paramedics, firefighters and police officers.

“Our priority is to help families and households deal with the increasing cost of living, the energy crisis and to fix our schools and hospitals.”

Terry Collins

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch with his top supporter, wife Jill Labor candidate Sam Boughton achieved a swing of almost 12 per cent

The Nashos prepare to hand out Easter goodies at the hospital

The new skate park and pump track at Kariong Oval has been opened ahead of schedule, just in time for the Easter school holidays.

Central Coast Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Mel Smith, said the active recreational space was designed for use by a range of ages, abilities, and wheels, and to meet the needs of the growing area.

“Local community members submitted 302 surveys during Council’s engagement activities in 2021 which shaped the design of the new skate park and pump track and informed the decision-making process,” Smith said.

A volunteer group of sewers at Bensville has made 10,000 garments and distributed them to 33 locations around the world in the past eight years.

Members of Global Kids’ Clothes meet weekly in the Greenhouse at The Coast Community Church and make clothing for children in developing countries.

With a membership of 20, the group has been operating for

Kariong skate park opens in time for Easter

“The new space includes a pump track, which is a continuous smooth track with banked curves and crests which can be used by a variety of ages and abilities on bikes, scooters, skateboards or skates.

“The street style skate park and pump track with transitional flow and obstacles cater to beginner and intermediate skill levels, with new shaded seating, a water refill station and waste bins also installed.”

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 for everyone to enjoy.

This location also allows for natural surveillance which creates a safer environment and reduces anti-social behaviour.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said the project was a

great example of how community participation in consultation had led to the delivery of a facility that reflected their vision and met the needs of residents.

“I’m sure that the community

Sewing up a storm for disadvantaged kids

eight years.

The memorable milestone was reached on March 29.

Dresses, skirts, shorts and tops for girls, T-shirts and shorts for boys and rompers, sleeping bags, bloomers and bibs for babies have been sent to 12 African countries, 14 countries in Asia and seven in the Pacific as well as to seven Australian locations.

In Australia garments have been sent to Aboriginal

communities, bushfire victims and three local crisis centres.

The clothing is made for a range of ages from babies to 12-year-olds.

Over the years funds have been raised to purchase sewing machines, overlockers and sewing resources as well as posting clothing to places too difficult to reach but where there is a distributor.

Each little girl receives a pair of undies in a pocket that is

FREE Dream Catcher Workshops

and children who participated in the consultation and the design workshop activities will be pleased to see their ideas come to life and enjoy the new skate park which will be used for many years to come,” he said.

The new skate park was 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.

sewn on to the garment Friends, contacts and groups such as Rotary have taken and distributed clothing to the various destinations.

For more information about joining the group, donating fabric or sewing resources or funds to support the work contact Denise McKnight on 0407 697 202).

Source: Central Coast Council

A continuous smooth track with banked curves and crests which can be used by a variety of ages and abilities

Source: Global Kids’ Clothes Group members with some of the donated clothing

Council closures over Easter and ANZAC Day

Central Coast Council offices and a number of services will be closed or impacted over the Easter long weekend from Friday to Monday, April 7-10 and on Anzac Day, April 25.

All Customer Service Centres will be closed.

Non-emergency inquiries, requests, reporting issues or formal feedback can be made online 24/7 at centralcoast. nsw.gov.au and urgent matters such as water main breaks, sewer issues or fallen trees over roads can be reported on 4306 7900.

All branch libraries will be

closed on the public holidays, with after-hours chutes closed from 4.30pm on Thursday, April 6 until 9am on Tuesday, April 11. They will close again from 4.30pm on Monday, April 24, until 9am on Wednesday, April 26.

Toukley Library will be available to customers inducted for Library@Yourtime.

Early childhood education and care centres will be closed on all public holidays and all leisure centres, gyms and pools will be closed on Good Friday and Anzac Day.

Peninsula Leisure Centre will be open from 10am to 4pm on Easter Saturday, Sunday and

Monday.

Gosford Olympic Pool and Toukley Aquatic Centre will be open from 10am to 3pm on those days.

Lake Haven Recreation Centre will be open from 9am to 2pm on Easter Saturday and Easter Monday, but closed on Easter Sunday.

Niagara Park Stadium will be closed on all public holidays and Wyong Olympic Pool closed for the winter season on April 1 and will reopen on October 1. For those with the appropriate access tag there will be 24hour gym access available at Peninsula Leisure Centre and

Lake Haven Recreation Centre.

Grant McBride Baths and the region’s 15 beaches will be patrolled on the public holiday dates.

To see the open/close status of Central Coast beaches over the Easter holiday weekend or on Anzac Day go to the Beach Safe website.

All residential waste collection services continue as normal on the public holidays.

Woy Woy and Buttonderry Waste Management Facilities will be closed on Good Friday, April 7. They will be open on Anzac Day with public holiday hours

of operation of 8am-4pm.

Usual operating hours will apply at Gosford Regional Gallery and Edogawa Japanese Gardens over the break.

The Laycock St community Theatre box office will be closed.

All community halls, 50+ Leisure and Learning Centres and senior centres will be closed on the public holidays.

Council’s Animal Care Facilities at Charmhaven and Erina will operate from 8am to 11am under restricted hours during the Easter and Anzac Day public holidays.

If you witness a dog attack or

You can help raise a seeing eye dog puppy

Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs is set to expand its puppy caring program to the Gosford area – the first time the scheme has been run in NSW.

The national program sees volunteers take Seeing Eye Dogs puppies into their hearts and homes for their first year. Puppies are matched with a volunteer carer from the age of eight weeks, with Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs covering the costs of food, equipment and vet care.

A puppy development trainer is also assigned to help carers

teach the basics of training such as socialising, waiting, walking on-lead and toileting.

“No experience is needed,” Gosford-based puppy development trainer Jess McKenzie said.

“Just a love of dogs and a little patience and a willingness to learn.

“These incredible pups will one day go on to change the life of someone who is blind or has low vision, with the help of our puppy carers.”

Puppies can go to most places in the community, such as shopping centres, cafes,

cinemas and transport hubs.

This helps to ready them for real-life experiences when they become Seeing Eye Dogs and are matched to a person who is blind or has low vision.

“Raising a pup is also a great way to meet like-minded people, learn new skills, and give back to the community,” McKenzie said.

Applications are now for caring volunteers on the Central Coast who want to help guide Seeing Eye Dogs puppies along the path to becoming highly trained working dogs.

From application to approval,

are attacked by a dog or see a roaming or unleashed dog, you can report on 4306 7900 or call 000 if emergency services are required.

The Entrance Visitor Information Centre will be closed Good Friday and Anzac Day but open from 9.30am to 4.30pm on Easter Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.

For full information on Anzac Day events and road closures across the region, visit Council’s website – centralcoast.nsw. gov.au/AnzacDay.

Source: Central Coast Council

the Seeing Eye Dogs team will support new carers throughout the process, which includes police checks, working with children checks, and household assessment.

Whether you are working, studying or retired, single or with family, already caring for a pet, apartment-living, on an acreage, or somewhere in between: everyone is invited to apply.

To apply go to sed. visionaustralia.org/puppycaring/apply-now

Source:

Coast Connect

Central Coast Council news and community information

ADMINISTRATOR MESSAGE

Rik Hart

Outcome of NSW State Election

The outcome of the 25 March 2023 NSW State Election has led to a change of state government, with residents across NSW voting in the NSW Labor Party for the first time in 12 years.

As the vote counts were tallied on election night and in the days following, it was clear that Central Coast Labor Members of Parliament (MPs) had done well, with all Labor MPs in our region increasing their margins.

In the state seat of Terrigal, Mr Adam Crouch, the sitting MP (Liberal), was able to retain his seat for another term after a close race against his Labor opponent.

I would like to congratulate the following Members of Parliament on their successful campaigns and retention of their seats:

• Ms Liesl Tesch, Member for Gosford

• Mr David Harris, Member for Wyong

• Mr David Mehan, Member for The Entrance

• Mr Adam Crouch, Member for Terrigal

• Ms Yasmin Catley, Member for Swansea.

With a NSW Labor Government now in power, I look forward to continuing working with all of our State MPs to increase opportunities for funding, advancements and improvements for the Central Coast region.

Did you miss the last Council meeting?

Re-watch the webcast on our YouTube channel. Links can be found on our website at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/meetings, along with meeting agendas, reports and minutes. Next meeting will be held at Wyong on Wednesday 26 April 2023

Improving Your Water and Sewer Services

Council adopted the Water and Sewer Delivery Plan 2022-2026 as part of its commitment to improve water and sewer performance, accountability, and transparency with customers over the next four years. You can learn how we are on track and progressing well across all areas of the plan with July to December 2022 progress report.

For more information, search ‘water delivery plan’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

What makes a liveable Coast?

What’s important to you when it comes to the liveability of the Central Coast?

Whether it’s access to green spaces, great shops and restaurants, transport, connected communities, a sense of public safety of something else - we want to hear from you.

Participate in the 2023 Australian Liveability Census. Search ‘census’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Ensuring flow of urban stormwater

A program of maintenance works is currently underway to ensure the unobscured flow of stormwater runoff in urban channels at a number of high priority sites. These works help to maintain effective drainage at these creeks and limit the impact of flooding to surrounding properties, as well as improving water quality and providing other benefits to wildlife.

For more information, search ‘urban stormwater’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Stay safe on the road this Easter

Avoid driver fatigue these holidays and get a good night’s sleep before you drive. Have a Plan B if drinking and leave the car at home, get a lift, taxi, ride share or public transport and get home safely. Double demerits will be in force over the Easter long weekend (Thurs 6 April to Mon 10 April) and for the ANZAC Day weekend (Fri 21 April to Tues 25 April).

For more information, search ‘Easter road safety’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

What’s on? Go to centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/events

Easter school holiday program

We have over 40 free and affordable events for all ages delivered by our regional gallery, libraries, leisure centres, theatres, and youth services to keep young minds and bodies busy these holidays.

There’s glow in the dark discos, art workshops, gaming, basketball clinics, open air family and youth movie nights, jewellery making, dinosaur discovery, pool slides, youth events and lots more.

centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/schoolholidays

Did you

know?

Council Easter and Anzac holiday service changes and closure details are online.

Central Coast Council offices and a number of services will be closed or impacted over the Easter Long Weekend from Friday 7 to Monday 10 April and on Anzac Day on Tuesday 25 April.

Essential services will continue to operate.

For more information search ‘Easter closures’ online at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

enews at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/enews

Farewell to couple with strong links to Yarramalong Valley

The people of Yarramalong Valley gathered at Wyong Creek Hall recently to farewell Paul and Di Salmon and thank them for years of hard work and dedication to the community and the hall.

Even though they’re leaving the valley, they’re not going far – to Wyong – and Paul has again accepted the role of hall president for yet another year.

Booking Officer for the hall, Brenda Moore, said the committee was delighted to have him around for another year.

“Both Paul and Di have done so much for our community, they will be sorely missed from our valley but we all wish them well in the next phase of their lives,” she said.

Di joined the committee as secretary in 2000, later

becoming booking officer until 2022, and Paul joined the committee in 2005, becoming president soon after.

Paul has a special connection to the 109-year-old Wyong Creek Hall on Yarramalong Rd as his grandfather, Frederick, donated the land to the community to build the hall.

In the early 1900s Frederick and his two brothers, William and Frank, together with Edward Kennedy and Saul Greentree, set about establishing the hall, which was completed in August 1914.

The official name, Wyong Creek Literary Institute (now with Incorporated tacked on), is due in no small part to Paul’s grandmother and Frederick’s wife Ella Salmon being an avid reader, wordsmith and Sydney newspaper article contributor. Volunteers constructed the

original building mainly from timber cut in the valley and it has stood the test of time with only the original timber stumps having to be replaced by concrete piers in the early 1970s.

It was then that the hall committee decided to upgrade

the hall and to replace the drop toilets by building a new extension for amenities with running water for toilets and basins.

As before, most of the building work was done by community volunteers and financed by fundraising events in the hall

organised by the local women.

Over the years it has been the venue for local dances, weddings, card nights, birthdays, plays, concerts, wakes and school presentation nights.

There have been further renovations both inside and out throughout the years in order to attract more functions, art shows and stage shows in and around the hall to produce a steady income to maintain the heritage-listed hall and cover souring insurance costs.

One of those is the now wellknown annual Scarecrows competition which was initiated and organised for many years by Paul and Di Salmon.

It’s a quirky competition with a host of fabulous, funny and creative scarecrow characters lining the streets and visitors come from far and wide to see

these crazy creations scattered throughout Yarramalong Valley.

Brenda Moore said all these events took time and effort to pull off and she was proud of the small handful of people who made them happen.

“How lovely it would be to have some more locals join us in maintaining and caring for this historic hall,” she said.

At all times since its origin, the hall has been wholly owned by the community and managed and maintained by its current, community elected, voluntary committee.

During centenary celebrations for Wyong Creek Hall in 2014 a time capsule was placed in the grounds which is hoped to be recovered in 2114.

Sue Murray

Popular Easter Bunny hunt on again at Long Jetty

The Easter Bunny Hunt is on again this year at Long Jetty, hosted by The Entrance Rotary Club.

It’s a hugely popular family event on the Easter calendar and this year will kick off with registrations from 8.30am to 11.30am on Saturday, April 8, near the boat ramp on the

FOOD,

corner of Tuggerah Pde.

The cost is $5 per child which includes a showbag with a chocolate Easter Bunny and drink provided at the finish line.

Participants are given clues in the form of rhymes to locate the Easter Bunnies secreted around the walkway at Long Jetty.

Henry Kendall Gardens Open Day

Bring your family and invite a friend – we’re opening the doors for you to explore!

Find answers to your questions as you stroll through our welcoming spaces, chat to happy faces, view homes and see why Henry Kendall Gardens gives residents reasons to smile. Food, entertainment and a goodie bag? You won’t want to miss it! Scan the QR code for more details.

Friday 14 April 10am - 1.30pm

The major prize draw will be at 12pm and every entrant has a chance to win extra prizes, vouchers and passes from sponsors of the events.

There will also be face painting, sticker tattoos, a craft workshop and a visit from a Berkeley Vale NSW Rural Fire Service truck and crew.

Families are encouraged to bring along a picnic to enjoy with the family. For more information contact Rotarian Kathleen Trott on 0412 155 209.

Paul and Di Salmon at their farewell event

Source: The Entrance Rotary Club

Some of the children in the Easter bunny hunt last year

Introducing ARCHIBALD TO THE CENTRAL COAST

Archibald by ALAND is set to become Gosford’s most vibrant and dynamic lifestyle precinct, combining apartment living, a premium hotel and an exciting dining precinct on the ground floor.

As well as 323 apartments, Archibald offers upscale resort-style amenities such as a pool with a swim-up bar, rooftop Skybar & Lounge with uninterrupted water views. You will find a lobby café, pub and restaurant on the ground floor, making it a perfect place to enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner or an afternoon cocktail with family and friends.

– 1, 2, 3 & 4 bed apartments + luxurious penthouses

– Spacious bedrooms, chic kitchens & premium bathrooms

– Easy access to both Sydney & Newcastle

– 20 mins by car to Terrigal & Avoca beaches

– ALAND is a trusted property developer & builder with a 100% completion rate

Four charged in drug syndicate bust

Four men have been charged following a multiagency investigation into an alleged drug supply syndicate operating on the Central Coast.

In late 2022, detectives from the National Anti-Gangs Squad (NAGS) – comprising officers from the State Crime Command’s Criminal Groups Squad and Australian Federal Police (AFP) – commenced an investigation under Strike Force Spartan into an alleged organised criminal syndicate facilitating the supply of prohibited drugs, mainly cocaine, on the Central Coast.

As part of ongoing investigations, strike force detectives executed a search warrant at a storage facility in Berkeley Vale on Wednesday, March 15.

During the search, police located and seized about 3.6kg of cocaine, 500ml of GBL (gamma-butyrolactone), 200ml of human growth hormone, 3.1kg of cannabis, drug paraphernalia, and a money counter.

All items were seized for further forensic examination.

Following further investigations, strike force police and NAGS officers –assisted by Raptor North and the Public Order and Riot Squad – executed four simultaneous search warrants at homes at Ourimbah, Empire Bay, Berkeley Vale and Chittaway Bay, from 6am on Thursday, March 30.

Police located and seized seven firearms, two gel blaster

pistols, 500 rounds of ammunition, motor vehicles, electronic devices, steroids, prohibited drugs including cocaine, heroin and cannabis, cash, documentation, clothing and items consistent with the manufacture of prohibited drugs.

The items will undergo further examination.

At the Berkeley Vale home, police located an inactive

Police seek information about Terrigal fire

Police are appealing for public assistance after a property on Scenic Hwy at Terrigal was damaged by fire on Friday, March 31. Emergency services were called to the property shortly before 10.30pm after a resident located the property alight.

Officers attached to Brisbane Water Police District arrived to find a house and vehicle on fire.

The blaze was extinguished,

and no injuries have been reported.

An investigation has commenced into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

As inquiries continue, police are urging anyone who may have information, dashcam footage from the area at the time, or who may have

clandestine laboratory.

NSW Fire and Rescue HAZMAT crews deemed the site safe, before it was dismantled by specialist police from the State Crime Command’s Chemical Operations Unit.

Investigators seized items consistent with the manufacture of prohibited drugs, glassware and prohibited drugs. They will undergo forensic examination.

Four men were arrested and taken to Gosford and Woy Woy Police Stations.

A 38-year-old man from Ourimbah was charged with two counts of supply prohibited drug – large commercial quantity, supply cannabis, supply prohibited drug, participate criminal group contribute criminal activity and possess unregistered firearm.

A 27-year-old man from Empire Bay was charged with supply prohibited drug – large commercial quantity, supply cannabis, supply prohibited drug, participate criminal group contribute criminal activity, recklessly deal with the proceeds of crime and possess prohibited drug. The pair appeared before Gosford Local Court on Friday, March 31, where they were both formally refused bail with the younger man to reappear at the same court on Thursday, April 6, while the older man will reappear at the same court on Friday, May 26.

A 39-year-old Berkeley Vale man was charged with 15

offences including supply prohibited drug – large commercial quantity, supply cannabis, participate criminal group contribute criminal activity, possess unauthorised pistol and recklessly deal with the proceeds of crime.

A 38-year-old man from Chittaway Bay was charged with 10 offences including supply prohibited drug – large commercial quantity, supply cannabis, participate criminal group contribute criminal activity, possess or use a prohibited weapon without permit, possess ammunition without holding licence/permit/ authority and possess unauthorised firearm.

They both appeared before Wyong Local Court on Friday, March 31, where they were formally refused bail to appear at the same court on Tuesday, May 16.

Anyone with information about organised crime and drug supply is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.

Source: NSW Police

Woman wanted on larceny offences

witnessed the incident to contact police.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Brisbane Water Detectives or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or https:// nsw.crimestoppers.com.au

Source: Brisbane Water Police

Police appeal to identify man

Police have released CCTV images and are appealing for public assistance as they investigate a reported sexual touching at The Entrance.

Police have been told a worker was sexually touched by a male customer at about 4.15pm on Tuesday, March 7, at a tobacconist store on The Entrance Rd, The Entrance.

As inquiries continue, police have released an image of a man who may be able to assist with their investigation.

The man depicted is described as being of Indian SubContinental appearance, aged in his 30s, about 165cm, of thin build, with dark hair and a moustache.

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.

He is shown wearing a checked shirt, blue jeans and sandals.

Anyone who may have information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or https://nsw. crimestoppers.com.au

Source: Tuggerah Lakes Police

Police believe this man could assist their investigation

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a woman wanted on two outstanding arrest warrants.

Nicole Pittman aged 39, is wanted for larceny and dishonestly obtaining property by deception.

Pittman is of Aboriginal appearance, between 165cm and 170cm tall, of solid build, with black hair and is known to

frequent the Brisbane Water area.

Police urge the public not to approach Pittman if sighted and anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or https:// nsw.crimestoppers.com.au

Source: Brisbane Water Police

Police believe this man could assist their investigation

Drive safely over Easter break

Central Coast drivers are warned to take it easy on the region’s roads over the long weekend, with a major traffic operation being conducted as police prepare to keep the roads safe this Easter.

NSW Police will launch Operation Easter 2023 at 12.01am on Thursday, April 6and it will run until 11:59pm on Monday, April 10, with double demerits in place throughout.

The operation will specifically target the major factors contributing to road trauma; excessive speed; driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs; fatigue; non-wearing of seatbelts and helmets; and

mobile phone use.

Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner Tracy Chapman, said substantial police resources have been assigned to the operation as road trauma remains a matter of significant concern.

“This Easter, our officers will be out and about doing their best to keep the roads safe so that everyone can arrive to their destinations in time for a wonderful weekend with loved ones,” she said.

“The message is simple; drive to the speed limit, focus on the road – not your phone, and make sure you have a plan B if you are drinking.

“For the last two years, we’ve

seen seven fatalities on the road each Easter long weekend.

“The goal this year is to reduce that number.”

Transport for NSW Head of Transport Safety Peter Dunphy said there are simple steps everyone can take to make sure we all arrive safely to our destinations this long weekend.

“If you are driving this long weekend, even if it’s a short trip, give yourself plenty of travel time, wear your seatbelt or helmet if you’re on a motorbike, stay under the speed limit, put your phone away and never drink or drug drive,” he said.

Source: NSW Police

Officers escort the accused from the house

Photo: NSW Police

Specialised manufacture would be complicated

Sonnie Hopkins makes an arguable case that the manufacturing sector could make a bigger contribution to Australia’s economy than the basic support I suggested, in my letter of March 23, as being its limit (“Specialised home manufacture a possibility”, CCN 384).

I’d never dismiss the idea that there are openings in the manufactured-goods market that we could exploit, and his contention that we could focus on specialised, high-value, small-scale products is theoretically sound: there are

several countries that do exactly that.

However, this idea does not get us any further forward.

Any progress in this field depends on our identifying

innovative products that we are uniquely skilled at producing and on our initiating the global marketing that would be necessary to make them a profitable investment.

If Mr Hopkins can detect any hint of this happening in the present local manufacturing sector, I’d be interested to hear about it, because I see no sign of it: it would require an enormously sophisticated approach to business that seems entirely lacking in our entrepreneurial class.

As for his suggestion that spending $368B on the fabrication of submarines

could result in the spin-off of needed skills in other industries, I shall have to express my scepticism on this point.

The claim that the monstrous subsidies paid to the auto industry were, somehow, justified by the development of sector-wide skills is, as far as I know, completely unsubstantiated.

If there is research that demonstrates this outcome, I’d be interested to hear about it, but my impression has always been that the idea was put forward as an article of political faith and never challenged until the subsidies became so

onerous that they could no longer be tolerated.

If a fraction of those subsidies had been put into direct training programs, we could have had all the skills we ever needed and, perhaps, seed-money left over for competitive product development.

Parenthetically, and in fairness to the submarine program, I have to point out that $368B spread out to the infinitely distant time horizon that seems to be involved doesn’t really amount to much on an annual basis.

We have spent as much as that on other useless weaponry

– F.111 fighters, Abrams tanks, Collins submarines – but we apparently have to have our big boys’ toys, trivial as they are in number, so that we can play in the game, and, with a bit of luck, undersea drones will have made submarines obsolete before the bulk of that money has been committed.

Paul Keating is exaggerating a bit but he is fundamentally right that the submarines are a bum deal: the point is that they are the ante that we have to put up to keep on the good side of the allies that we need.

After visiting the Central Coast Council display in Kibble Park and talking to employees several things were quite clear.

There are two sides in Council and they do not agree on where the future direction should be: those led by the CEO and the Administrator; and some staff who believe in a slower better planned approach.

The CEO is on a mission and he knows that his time is

Apparent split in Council attitudes FORUM

limited (before) new councillors are sworn in.

(There is a) belief that the previous Council failed because it had too many buildings and could not afford to maintain them.

As a result, the CEO is determined to sell off as much as he can in the shortest time span.

This will also include demolishing the old library in Kibble Park, despite it being almost heritage listed and the community (being) in great need of extra space.

He is also committed to selling 73-75 Mann St despite acknowledging that they will not be needed by TAFE.

It is believed TAFE under the new government will expand by moving its trade departments to Ourimbah or Newcastle and

thus will only need the old Council building. The waterfront project can only go ahead if the problem with Dane Dr is resolved. This is, of course, always has been the reason why the waterfront has stayed as it is. How this road problem is overcome is of paramount importance and any expenditure on the waterfront has to be put on hold until a suitable solution is found.

Whatever the solution it is going to cost many millions of dollars and can only be undertaken by the State Government.

The reclassifying of 73-75 Mann St to operational is now totally dependent on the new State Planning Minister.

Parking is not a problem that needs fixing because by the time all the changes have been put into place people will be using self-drive cars; this last

idea is the most puzzling of all. It appears that the new library will go ahead and will in all honesty be a great addition to Gosford.

Unless there is a change of heart and a community response the old library will be demolished.

All else is really dependent on the new State Government.

Email, Mar 31 Geoff Mitchell, Kariong

An old adage for investment management is: Do not put all your eggs in one basket -diversification reduces risk.

This applies equally in regards to the options available for replacement of fossil fuels.

Australia has chosen to put all its eggs in one basket, opting only for renewables and rejecting nuclear out of hand.

The intermittent generating

Both Richard Pryke and Paul Corkeron pour scorn on Australia having nuclear-powered submarines (CCN 384).

The former dismisses them as a threat to China while the latter implies the present environmental threat is the only one with which we should be concerned.

We need to have a Plan B for energy supply FORUM

capacity of renewables dictates that a stand-alone electricity grid, totally composed of them, must have an enormous storage capacity.

The cost of this enormous storage is a highly significant factor in the overall cost of electricity generated.

To date there is no evidence whatsoever that economic

storage can be achieved.

It is a huge technological challenge and there is no guarantee that it will be solved in the near future, in fact if at all.

Lithium-ion batteries, the preferred type for current experimental developments, have been improved over many years but are not close at this time for large-scale economic storage.

Just as capacity of solar panels and wind turbines is limited by area (panel area and turbine circular area) lithiumion batteries are limited by the surface area of the permeable membrane separating the two halves of each cell through which the lithium cations must pass backwards and forwards on discharge and recharge.

To put total faith in renewables and not have a plan B (nuclear) is an unnecessarily risky

approach, leading to ever higher electricity costs and unreliability.

In the MIT Technology Review 2018, James Temple says: “These batteries (lithium-ion) are far too expensive and don’t last nearly long enough, limiting the role they can play on the grid, experts say. If we plan to rely on them for massive amounts of storage as more renewables come online –rather than turning to a broader

The time is right for nuclear subs FORUM

The first responsibility of all national governments is the defence of their countries.

Yes, that is defence against detriment to the air, land and water, but also defence against military attack.

Neither is something we should just get around to

thinking about when the desecration is happening.

Sadly, we have delayed too long with respect to the environment; still, we might get away with that – ‘touch wood’. However, we can’t wait until our cities are under bombardment from guided missiles etc. before saying, “Oh we need a technology to serve

as a disincentive to attack”. Too late!

We are at considerable distance from other nations.

Who knows if any of them, having large populations and dwindling resources, might some decades from now decide our continent could solve their problems.

Luckily, as an island nation

we won’t face troops marching across our borders, as has Ukraine.

However, we are still open to technological attack.

I too wish there were a cheaper, while also potentially effective, deterrent other than weapon-carrying vessels able to hide undetected in the ocean and move rapidly to deliver

mix of low-carbon sources like nuclear and natural gas with carbon capture technology –we could be headed down a dangerously unaffordable path”.

Australia needs to consider nuclear at least as option B. Risky gambling usually has some bad consequences.

counter-strikes.

I doubt there is one. Were it necessary to carry out such operations, our subs could not annihilate another country (I’m pleased to note). The potential for a reaction is the deterrent, not actual destruction.

Email, Mar 30 Sonnie Hopkins, Tascott

Email, Apr 3 Bruce Hyland, Woy Woy

Email, Apr 1 Charles Hemmings, Woy Woy

Australia’s most soughtafter drag queens will take to the stage in the glittering drag spectacular, Prada Clutch’s All-Drag Revue, at The Art House, Wyong, on Saturday, April 15.

A 90-minute drag extravaganza, the All-Drag Revue takes audiences on a musical journey from where it all began paying tribute to the history of Aussie drag – in

Glittering drag revue at The Art House

concert.

Revisit the good old days of Les Girls in the 60s, sing along to classic disco hits and sashay into today with a celebration of chart-topping music icons who have inspired drag performers around the world.

With a cast of seven, the AllDrag Revue is headlined by Prada Clutch, who has performed in stage shows across Australia playing both

regional and capital cities.

She draws her inspiration from the likes of Dusty Springfield, Patti LaBelle, Bette Midler and Cher.

Prada and her stunning showgirls pay tribute to Les Girls with a fabulous Vegasstyle feathered showgirl performance.

“Carlotta came to my first show and she was blown away; she said a lot of people have

Exploring light and space at regional gallery

Australia’s most internationally acclaimed glass artist Jessica Loughlin of the JamFactory is holding an exhibition at Gosford Regional Gallery as part of four solo exhibitions this season by national artists brought together by their fascination with light and space.

JamFactory ICON Jessica

Loughlin: of Light opened at the gallery on April 1, along with Ali Tahayori: The Sky is the Same and Tanya Alexandra Richards: Nomadic Movement.

From April 8, they will be joined by the fourth exhibition – Michèle Heibel: Making Time.

Loughlin will tour 13 venues

nationally with support from the Australia Council’s Contemporary Touring Initiative.

A studio glass artist for more than 25 years, Loughlin creates ethereal kiln-formed glass artworks and has dedicated her practice to the pursuit of capturing the transient qualities of light and the quiet sense of contemplation it provokes in the viewer.

Council Unit Manager Community and Culture, Glenn Cannard, said an official opening night for JamFactory ICON Jessic 15 April 15.

During the public program Loughlin will go on a reflective journey through her artworks with responding compositions

by cellist Hilary Kleinig.

“This meditative encounter leads participants through a series of reflective states as they take in the sights and sounds of a visual meditative sound experience encouraging participants to intimately explore the stillness of everything illuminated and glowing, and Loughlin’s fascination with the beauty of emptiness,” Cannard said.

For everything that’s happening take a look at the 2023 Exhibition Program at lovecentralcoast.com.au/ explore-gosford-gallery and become a member of the Gosford Regional Gallery.

tried to do tributes to Les Girls, but no-one has ever done it quite like us,” she said.

The All-Drag Revue is creatively directed by original Les Girls cast member, Monique Kelly, and choreographed by Stephen Clarke, who has worked with the Minogue sisters, Cyndi Lauper and Diana Ross.

“With my Cher dress, Monique hand-beaded every single

bead – six months it took her to make that dress,” Prada said.

“It’s breathtaking to see, weighing almost 17 kilos.”

Complete with dazzling feathers, wigs, headpieces and stunning costumes, the AllDrag Revue is an unforgettable night out that will have audiences dancing in the aisles.

“I’m looking forward most to the crowd’s reaction when I

first come out on stage as our touring shows have been far and few between since the pandemic in March 2020,” Prada said.

“I really miss the buzz of a live audience – they are the reason I do what I do.”

Tickets available from www. pradaclutchsalldragrevue.com

Source: Media release, Mar 29 All Drag Revue

Prada Clutch

Source: Central Coast Council The JamFactory Icon Jessica Loughlin: of light exhibition opened at Gosford Regional Gallery on April 1

Central Coast Council has parents covered, with plenty of activities to keep the children busy and entertained during the school holidays.

Council Director of Community and Recreation Services, Mel Smith, said there are over 40 free and affordable events for all ages being delivered by the regional gallery, libraries, leisure centres, theatres, and youth services.

“There really is something for

Lots to do during the school holidays

every interest with this year’s school program, which also showcases the expanse of Council’s facilities and community services across the region,” Smith said.

The region’s libraries will host an array of hands on and immersive experiences.

Kids can get their glow on with a range of dark room experiences – Glow Games, Glow Disco, Glow Room Sensory Fun and Glow Construction.

They can game away with Dungeon and Dragons or Hogwarts Wizard Tournament or get crafty with polymer clay jewellery making or stickers and labels making, make gaming models or do some macrame and more.

They can learn about prehistoric dinosaurs and fossils or discover the birds of Brisbane Water.

At Gosford Regional Gallery kids can explore their artistic side in a range of mediums and

create wild bird or bonsai sculptures, oil pastel octopus art or attend a printmaking, silk painting, drawing or painting workshop.

Swim, slide and splash out kids’ energy with inflatable fun and water slides at the region’s leisure centres or fine tune some water and ball skills with swimming lessons or at basketball clinics.

A series of open-air activities will include the Easter ‘Hop’ at Kibble Park (Gosford), Chapman

Lawn (Wyong) and the Village Green (Toukley). Outdoor activities will run from the afternoon into the evening and include crafts, circus play space, roving entertainment, lawn games before and family movies. There’s plenty of entertainment on offer at Laycock St Community Theatre and Council’s Youth Services and local youth providers have a range of exciting events and workshops from a Street Beat

event to a Teen Dance Party.

Administrator Rik Hart said the holiday program demonstrates the quality of Council’s community offerings which contribute to the high level of liveability on the Coast, support families and foster creativity and community connectiveness.

See full details of what’s on offer at centralcoast.nsw.gov. au/schoolholidays.

Source: Central Coast Council

Inflatable fun at the region’s leisure centres

A variety of craft activities will be on offer

The Young Authentic and Social (YASS) program has the coming school holidays covered with three free events to be held across the region.

The award-winning arts and culture program for 12-24-yearold marginalised youth on the Central Coast hosts regular social groups, creative workshops and celebrations.

Kicking off the school holiday fun on April 13 at GNL Wyong (Gudjagang Ngara li-dhi Aboriginal Corporation) will be a Street Dance Workshop with legendary dance collective The Pioneers visiting the Central Coast for one day only.

The workshop is open to all

School holiday fun with YASS

12-24 year olds and no experience is necessary.

It is suitable for all experience levels and abilities and Aboriginal, LGBTQIA+ and all abilities young people are especially encouraged to attend.

A Youth Podcast Workshop will run for two days on April 18-19 in Gosford at the Naughty Noodle HQ.

LGBTQIA+ youth and allies aged 12-24 will learn the basics of podcasting.

They will create their own series with LGBTQIA+ youth in conversations with queer Elders.

Whether you’re interested in the producing, performing,

editing or promotional side of content creation, this workshop will have something for

everyone. To end the school holidays and launch Youth Week with a

Good Friday treat at Red Tree Theatre

Red Tree Theatre will present two highly acclaimed international works on Friday, April 7, for one night only.

First up is Orpheus at 7.30pm; a modern retelling of a timeless tale which explores how far we would go for love.

It follows David turning 30 at a bar with Eurydice as a tree nymph and Bruce Springsteen on karaoke.

This multi-award-winning show has been described as a “little story about big things” and features soaring melodies and searing spoken word.

Orpheus has received rave reviews and comes direct from performances at Adelaide Fringe and Sydney Opera House.

It will be the first show performed in the Red Tree Theatre Gallery Space.

Next, The Gods The Gods The Gods at 9.30pm will transform the theatre into an underworld nightclub.

This show features three performers, four stories, 12 tracks and big beats, soaring melodies and heart-stopping spoken-word in a gathering of the gods at a crossroads where mythology meets real life.

It has received glowing reviews from critics across the

bang, YASS will host its third dance party on April 21.

The Supreme Beings Teen

Dance Party will be at PCYC Umina Beach, designed for 1217 year old LGBTQIA+ youth and their mates and allies. There will be performances from local artists and a DJ, along with a make-up booth and free food.

The dress code theme will be: What would you look like as a Supreme Being? – think deities, celestials, gods, goddesses and immortal creatures.

All events will be free and you can register for your spot at one or all of the activities at naughtynoodle.com.au/yaas.

Source: Media release, Mar 27 YASS

world and Red Tree Theatre

Artistic Director Joshua Maxwell said Orpheus and The Gods were two of the best shows he’d ever seen and he couldn’t wait to have Central Coast audiences experience them.

Red Tree Theatre is at 160162 Pacific Hwy, Tuggerah.

A Teen Dance Party will usher in Youth Week

Sparking an interest in youth theatre

Woy Woy Little Theatre (WWLT) is set to launch a new theatre program for young people aged 12-18, to culminate in a performance in July.

Long-time WWLT member Greg Buist is spearheading the Spark Festival program, which will be similar to the group’s annual adult Flash Festival of short plays.

A primary school teacher for more than 35 years, Buist has run a drama/theatre group called Comedy Club before school most Friday mornings of the school year for the past 15 years.

He has had lead roles in a number of plays for Woy Woy Little Theatre including Ben Hur, Four Flat Whites In Italy, Arsenic and Old Lace and Dial M For Murder.

Buist also has been in more than a dozen musicals for Gosford Musical Society at

Laycock St Community Theatre and was a member of the first committee which worked to create the Flash Festival, which is now in its 10th year.

“Last year, just after we finished Ben Hur, I thought it would be great to have a short

play festival similar to Flash but for younger people,” he said.

“I talked it over with a few other members and it snowballed from there.

“We will hold our first introductory session at Peninsula Theatre from 1pm on

April 30.

“We will take registrations, show the kids around the theatre and then go over to the adjacent community centre, where our first four-six sessions will be held.”

Buist said drama games

would be a large component of these initial sessions, to be held from 1pm to 3pm on Sundays beginning on May 7.

Other WWLT members, including Andrew Thomson, who runs regular adult theatre games nights at Peninsula Theatre, will help conduct the sessions.

“After that, we will be holding writing workshops if there is interest,” Buist said.

“Then we will be starting to rehearse the performance pieces.”

Performances will be held at Peninsula Theatre on July 1 and 2 and will comprise short plays featuring the children.

“There will be no audition process,” Buist said.

“Every child who attends the sessions will be involved in the production.

“The plays performed could be published short plays or pieces written by the children

themselves.

“Being our first year, we will be very much playing it by ear.

“We have a few plays in mind for possible inclusion but would much prefer to use plays written by the children themselves.”

Buist has approached several schools to encourage children to register and hopes others will be interested.

“This will be a great thing for the kids themselves, but also for the theatre group,” he said.

“It will hopefully allow Woy Woy to cast shows we haven’t been able to do in the past as we see youngsters develop through Spark.”

For more information in becoming involved in Spark, go to www.sparkwoywoy.com, email 202sparkwoywoy@ outlook.com or call 0434 717 087.

Exhibition to highlight effects of domestic violence

A photography exhibition aimed at generating conversations around the impacts of living with domestic violence will be on show at Tuggerah and Wyong during the month of May.

The project which has been in creation for almost 12 months, with the black and white photographs giving a voice to those who have had lived experience of domestic and family violence and abuse.

The exhibition, It’s Not Black or White, also aims to increase awareness, shift attitudes and stop violence and abuse from the start.

By highlighting the voice of victim-survivors the exhibition will emphasise the long-term effects of violence and abuse and the difficult trauma recovery journey.

It is hoped the project will lead to the implementation of strategies to better support victim-survivors and to reduce recidivism.

This event is the initiative of NSW Police Force in partnership with Essence Images Photography and Central Coast Council and is sponsored by Mounties Group; Gosford RSL and Central Coast Leagues Club.

“We have finalised an exhibit

LAST WEEK’S PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

Also

of 27 photographs, depicting what the domestic violence/

abuse was/continues to be for domestic family violence

victim-survivors,” a project spokesperson said.

“For example, one victimsurvivor has said ‘it was like I was stepping on eggshells’ and another said ‘I felt caged – I had no freedom’.

“All domestic family violence lived experience victimsurvivors were supported throughout the process.”

The exhibition will be open between 10am and 2pm at both Red Tree Theatre, Tuggerah, from May 1 to 14 and at The Art House, Wyong, from May 15 to 31.

Source: Media release, Mar 21 NSW Police Force

Exhibition shows plenty of optimism

Optimism is the theme of a new exhibition at The Design Gallery in Terrigal, featuring works by Peter Griffen, Bettina McMahon and Denise Lithgow.

Gallery Director Gael Butler has assembled a beautiful mix of paintings, etchings, drawings and felted sculptural creations.

The show includes playful abstract landscapes by Peter Griffen who has exhibited and conducted workshops at

Gosford Regional Gallery.

Denise Lithgow is an internationally renowned felt artist and has stunning wall hangings and sculptured vessels in the show.

Bettina McMahon came to prominence as Australia’s foremost equestrian artist. She is also renowned for her mythological and classical subject matter including portraits of Picasso and Rembrandt.

There are also cameo appearances of works by artists as diverse as Wendy Sharpe, Pamela Griffith, Meredith Gilmore and Salvador Dali. The exhibition opened on April 1 and runs until April 30.

The gallery is at 211a The Scenic Hwy, Terrigal, and is open Wednesday to Sunday 10am-5pm.

Source: Media release, Mar 23 Design Gallery Terrigal

Contributing artist Peter Griffen and Denise Lithgow with some of her work

One of the photographs in the exhibition

Terry Collins

An information day will be held on April 30

The school holidays at the Australian Reptile Park are going to be super – literally.

From Friday, April 7, to Tuesday, April 25, the Park’s Zooperheroes campaign will combine all things superhero as guests experience the park’s star animals and the powers they harness up close.

There will be a free daily Superhero Stunt show at

Zooperheroes fun at the reptile park

1.30pm featuring three SpiderMan stunt performers doing impressive flips, tricks on a massive scaffolding structure reminiscent of the blockbuster Spider-Man: No Way Home.

There will also be the chance for visitors to snap a photo with the heroes following directly after the stunt show.

The holiday promotion will aim to educate guests on the

incredible characteristics the animals have, along with raising awareness about conservation.

Just some of the animals featured in the promotion will include Elvis the crocodile as The Hulk, Hugo the galapagos tortoise as The Flash, the funnel-web spider as SpiderMan, the platypus as Aquaman, the koala as Captain Australia,

the Tasmanian Devil as Daredevil, Kraken the Komodo dragon as Venom and the echidna as Iron Man.

Signs around the park will highlight the amazing powers each animal possesses, along with an activity card listing each animal giving children the chance to find each Zooperhero within the park and tick them off as they go.

To add to the excitement, the park will have a gigantic Spider-Man jumping castle for guests to enjoy for free during their visit.

“Zooperheroes is the best, most action-packed school holidays we have here at the Australian Reptile Park,” Director Tim Faulkner said.

“We’re so excited to educate guests on just how phenomenal

our animals are and the special capabilities that make them so unique.

“The kids just love watching and interacting with the superheroes in the Superhero Stunt Show.

It’s easily the best part of the day and it will be bigger and better than ever before.”

Source: Australian Reptile Park

There will be a stunt show at 1.30pm each day

Spider-Man stuntmen gets up close and personal with some Park residents

Just a chat – spider to Spider-Man

Photo: Australian Reptile Park

Photo: Australian Reptile Park

Photo: Australian Reptile Park

•

•

MISSING LINK

MISSING LINK

Fill

Photo: M Westacott

Four fish filleters from a factory in Hull ditch their overalls and dress-up to the nines for an unexpected trip to the Royal Ascot races.

And so the stage is set for Wyong Drama Group’s latest offering – Ladies Day, to be presented at Tuggerah’s Red Tree Theatre from April 21-29.

First-time director Cathy de Vries has assembled a top cast to bring Amanda Whittington’s charming play to life.

“While there are a lot of laughs in this play, it is also a beautiful look at the lives and relationships of four women,” de Vries said.

“They are working in a fish factory in a not-very-affluent area and want to do something special to mark the retirement

Ladies Day comes to Tuggerah

of one of them.

“It’s 2005 and Royal Ascot is coming to York – and so the decision is made.”

With tickets secured after some difficulties, the women set off for the races in their fanciest clothes and as the champagne begins to flow, so do the secrets each of them is carrying.

Long-time audience favourite Ruth Jordon plays Pearl, who is set for retirement but has a few secrets.

Rebecca Sharples plays single mum Jan, whose daughter is set to leave for university, and Sara McDonald plays the out-there Shelley who is desperate to become famous and find a millionaire.

Jordon’s daughter Isabella O’Brien plays Linda, the

youngest of the group, who is mothered by the other three. Completing the cast are James Chambers, Cameron Oxley and Gavin Fryer.

“This is a beautiful story about these women’s lives and their trust for each other,” de Vries said.

“We learn of their secret

desires as our initial perception of each of the women changes.”

A veteran performer with the group, de Vries said she was initially a little overwhelmed to

Place Maker program set for The Entrance

The Entrance town centre, foreshore and surrounds will be buzzing with activities featuring a series of public art and activations from April 7-16 during this year’s Place Maker program.

Central Coast Council is coorganising the event, which is

focused on creating connections through art.

Numerous local creatives will share and lead stories, songs, photography and interviews about their personal and shared responses to the recent local flooding in the region.

Council Unit Manager Community and Culture, Glenn

Cannard, said a sense of belonging was at the very heart of the Central Coast, and Place Maker at The Entrance would feature consecutive events over the Easter holiday to celebrate the natural beauty of the region, and the resilience and fortitude of the community after the rain.

Boost for Naughty Noodle

explore new experiences with creative workshops and social happenings.”

Supernova said the organisation’s growth meant more chairs, gallery walls and sound and lighting equipment was needed.

“Our end game is to obtain our own full-time venue – a Central Coast Contemporary Multi-Arts Centre,” she said.

“Right now we operate out of multiple shared community spaces.

“Place Maker is set to inspire conversations and strengthen connections while demonstrating the value of the creative sector and what can be achieved through shared experiences and community dialogue,” Cannard said.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said it was fantastic that

the arts and cultural strengths of the Central Coast would be reflected in its stories of resilience.

“Arts and culture belong to everyone,” he said.

“Council is supporting the sector through commissioning local artists and increasing community participation.”

be directing her first play, but was now loving the process.

“I have a buddy director in Julie Bailey and a mentor in Howard Oxley, so I’m feeling increasingly confident,” she said.

“All of these women are so creative – I love watching what they’re doing with their characters.

“It’s a lot of fun and a great learning curve.”

There will be a gala opening night on Friday, April 21 at 7.30pm, with evening sessions and matinees through to April 29.

Session details and bookings are available on the Wyong Drama Group website.

Terry Collins

Take a look at the Event Program on lovecentralcoast. com/placemaker and visit Central Coast Council What’s On for everything that’s happening over the Easter holidays.

Source: Media release, Mar 29 Central Coast Council

Premier arts and entertainment avenue

Naughty Noodle Fun Haus has received almost $37,000 for upgrades as part of the 2022 Community Building Partnership Program for upgrades.

Naughty Noodle was born in 2018 as an artist-led arts and culture organisation fostering creativity and is based at Ettalong Beach.

“This grant is so very special for our organisation,” Creative Director Glitta Supernova said.

“It’s time for our region to be allowed to shine and for that we need spaces to do so.

“Locals, visitors and volunteers are all winners.”

Supernova said Naughty

Noodle events had seen almost 13,000 people participate in positive creative conscious contemporary entertainment over the past five months.

“We operate the Central Coast’s first contemporary multi arts centre – from theatre to circus, cabaret to live music – and directly support visibility across multiple streams from youth to seniors, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and multicultural to women to LGBTQI,” she said

“These funds will allow us to expand our infrastructure and technical capacity to deliver more community facing creative projects to support our local creative communities as well as audiences wanting to

“All the infrastructure acquired is a step towards this end game.”

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said the funding would allow the organisation to continue doing its “amazing work”.

“Naughty Noodle does excellent work across the region creating a happier, healthier and more welcoming Central Coast,” Tesch said.

“These funds will assist Naughty Noodle continue to maximise positive community impacts and effects across the key areas of inclusion, health and wellbeing, cultural development, education and creativity.”

The ladies learn they are off to the races

Photo: James Beggs

Terry Collins

Naughty Noodle Creative Director, Glitta Supernova

Crème Brule literally means burnt cream and has been a French favourite for dessert since first appearing in a cook book by Francois Massialot in 1691. The original recipe is not far off what the modern day Crème Brulee looks like.

Chef Daniel’s next guest is the 26-year-old French winger for the Central Coast Mariner’s, Beni N’kololo, who played a few seasons in the French A League before coming over to Australia for his first overseas A league team. He scored a goal in his first game for the Mariners and says he loves it here and it feels like home.

Visit

•

•

•

•

So, hopefully we get to keep this talented and all round nice young man here for a few more seasons.

On hearing the correct French pronunciation however, it sounds more like Crembul. The ingredients also lend themselves to the base of how you make custard and ice cream.

Tina Wake

Ingredients:

• 6 eggs

Crème Brulèe Recipe A PINCH OF SALT

• 500ml normal cream (pure or thickened)

• 200g caster sugar (only caster sugar. Do not use brown or white sugar)

• 2 vanilla beans

• Hot water for Bain Marie

Instructions:

1. Separate 6 egg yolks into a bowl

2. Boil up 500ml of cream then turn off to simmer

3. Peel vanilla beans and scrape out the vanilla paste

4. Add vanilla paste to cream

5. Whisk eggs with 200g of caster sugar, adding in the sugar slowly

6. Slowly add the hot cream into the eggs, stirring constantly and careful not to cook the eggs

7. Place two bowls into a deep metal dish (will become the Bain Marie)

8. Add the crème and egg mix into the bowls

9. Pour hot water into the Bain Marie (metal tray) and fill up to half way up the bowls

10.Cook in oven at 120°C for 70 minutes.

11.Turn off and leave. Do not open for at least an hour.

12.You can do the next step after it has cooled down, or refrigerate overnight.

Torching the top:

1. Sprinkle some more caster sugar over the top of the Crème Brulèe, tilting the bowl to ensure an even spread

2. Torch the sugar on a lower heat evenly until the top goes brown and caramelises. Bubbling is good.

3. Leave to cool for a few minutes before tapping the Crème Brulèe before serving/eating

Chef Daniel and Beni N’kololo

Business & Property

Program of works to help stormwater flow

A program of maintenance works is underway to ensure the unobscured flow of stormwater runoff in urban channels at a number of high priority sites.

The works will be complete by June 30 (weather dependent), with limited impact to traffic, pathways or public reserves.

They will be carried out at: Del Rio Dr/Del Monte Pl, Copacabana; Wingello Creek, Wyoming; Brady’s Gully Creek, Wyoming; Wyoming Creek, Wyoming; Koninderie Pde, Narara; and Terrigal Dr (Worthing Rd/Jessie Hurley Dr).

Sites are identified through Flood Risk Management Plans and Studies, with prioritisation in this year’s work schedule based on condition inspection reports, risk analysis, available budget and resources.

Central Coast Council Director Environment and Planning, Alice Howe, said the annual works program played a role in flood mitigation and management of natural waterways.

“These works help to maintain effective drainage at these creeks and limit the impact of flooding to surrounding properties, as well as improving water quality and providing

other benefits to wildlife” she said.

“A range of activities will be carried out, such as aquatic weed control and removal, removal of waterway obstructions such as debris, sediment, litter, and fallen trees, bush regeneration, and vegetation maintenance works on the creek or channel banks and corridors.

“Selected tree removal is considered through Council’s Urban Stormwater Maintenance Environmental Assessment process to improve channel function and allow for access for maintenance activity.”

Other key urban stormwater

channels across the region have intermittent inspections, with maintenance works undertaken on a needs-basis to remove any build-up of sediment or other obstructions to ensure that the channel and drainage infrastructure continue to function effectively.

Council also responds to community reports of any stormwater channel blockages or issues and carries out inspections following major storm or flood events.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said proactive management of stormwater channels assists in preparing for extreme weather and

mitigating risks.

“The significant rainfall and flooding events that the Coast experienced in 2022 demonstrated how valuable these proactive works are to help reduce risk of flooding in urban areas,” he said.

“However, this is one piece of the puzzle in building flood resilience and we all have a part to play.

“I encourage residents (living) alongside our waterways to be aware of their own risks, reduce these where possible and prepare a custom flood plan and emergency kit.

“Council’s website has information and links to helpful

resources, including an interactive online flood mapping tool to help identify how various river heights will impact specific properties and the surrounding roads and spaces.”

For information on preparing for flood emergencies, go to www.centralcoast.nsw.gov. au/environment/bushfiresand-flooding/floods

To use Council’s flood mapping tool, go to https:// maps.centralcoast.nsw.gov. au/public/

Source: Central Coast Council

Notification of proposal to upgrade nbn™ Radio Network Base Station Facility

As part of the fixed radio (wireless) component of the Network, nbn is proposing to expand the existing radio network base station at the following location:

• 7002 HALLARDS Road, CENTRAL MANGROVE NSW 2250

The proposed works on site will involve the upgrade of existing technology upon the facility including and not limited to the Installation of a new panel antenna, removal of existing panel antennas, installation of new dishes not more than 2.4m in diameter, removal of existing dishes and associated ancillary equipment to enhance transmitting technology. Furthermore, the works will involve the installation of a new battery cabinet.

nbn regards the proposed installations as a Low Impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-Impact Facilities) Determination 2018. In these circumstances, it does not require planning approval from Council.

Further information on this specific proposal can be obtained by calling Ryan Wong on 1300 260 834.

Written submissions can be sent to PO Box 430, Toowong QLD 4066 or via email to submissions@bmmgroup.com.au.

The closing date for submissions is 21-04-2023. For general info on the nbn, email info@nbn.com.au, or visit our website at www.nbnco.com.au.

The works should be completed by the end of June

Growth in tourism despite challenges of COVID

Despite the challenges presented in recent years by COVID-19 lockdowns, the Central Coast achieved a four per cent growth in tourism in the year ended June 2022 compared to a decline in regional NSW of 14 per cent.

A report to the Central Coast Council meeting on March 28 gave an update on progress in the 12 months to June 2022 under the Central Coast Destination Management Plan 2022-2025 (DMP).

It revealed a contribution of more than $1B in visitor expenditure to the region’s economy and an increase of 36 per cent on average regional expenditure per visitor over the previous year.

In addition to the $800,000 supplied by Council towards management outcomes delivered through annual Operational Plan budgets, the internal tourism team was also successful in securing an additional $300,000 in grant funding to invest in programs.

The aim of the DMP is to guide tourism development and destination management for four years with key actions for stakeholder groups including the Central Coast community and tourism operators.

Council says the region’s tourism profile continues to grow.

Over the 2021/22 period the Central Coast tourism industry, in collaboration with Council’s Tourism Team, was recognised as winners in eight industry awards in Australia and on the global stage.

Acting Director Community and Recreation Services, Beth Burgess, said tourism is an important pillar of the Central

Coast economy.

“Feedback from industry on the DMP’s year in review was positive and in support of continuing Council’s current tourism management model,” Burgess said.

“The industry conveyed that the work and activities delivered by Council’s Tourism

Team since 2020 have been significantly positive and agreed ongoing collaboration and consultation between industry and government on the direction of tourism and tourism planning was important to them.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said the tourism industry on the Coast had navigated its way through a challenging era, to achieve higher yielding visitors – an envious achievement for any destination strategy.

“Council will continue to receive further reports on the progress of the Destination Management Plan, which outlines Council’s shared vision for the Central Coast as having a thriving, connected and supported tourism industry,” he said.

“Destination Central Coast provides compelling visitor experiences and positions the region as a premier sustainable tourism and lifestyle destination – and maps future actions to get there.”

Progress report on water and sewer plan

Central Coast Council has provided its first bi-annual progress report on its Water and Sewer Delivery Plan, designed to improve water and sewer performance, accountability, and transparency over the next four years.

The report highlights the key achievements across July to December 2022 under three focus areas: accountability, community engagement and asset management.

Director of Water and Sewer, Jamie Loader, said Council was on track and progressing well across all areas of the plan.

“We have continued to listen to our customers,” he said.

“Our forums in March and May and a public survey in June will collect feedback to

help improve Council’s water and sewer services, including how we report back to our customers.

“Council has awarded a pressure pipeline condition assessment contract and commenced inspections and condition assessments of major tunnels and outfalls across the region.

“We are also planning for a condition audit at Somersby Water Treatment Plant.”

The Plan is built on recommendations contained within the Central Coast Council Water Supply Authority Pricing Determination, as provided by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART).

Administrator Rik Hart said the Pricing Determination ensured Council’s water and sewer services were financially

sustainable and that decisions were made in the best interest of the community, with focus on transparency and accountability.

“The roll-out of our Delivery Plan shows our commitment to building credibility and trust

with our community,” he said.

Council is also updating its Liquid Trade Waste Policy to ensure alignment with the NSW Department of Planning and Environment (NSW DPE) Liquid Trade Waste Guidelines and the requirements of IPART.

In June 2022, the Central Coast achieved ECO Destination Certification with Ecotourism Australia, recognising its commitment to sustainable practices and nature-based tourism experiences.

The report says achieving ECO Destination Certification recognises the region as a world-class location for sustainable and nature-based tourism, which will provide a substantial and ongoing boost to the local economy.

“This was a key action from the DMP and places the Central Coast region on an international level as an ecotourism destination of choice,” the report says.

“Statistically, ecotourists stay longer, are more sustainably conscious travellers and are more interested in a region’s local community, nature and culture.”

The region has seven ECO certified operators and nine ECO certification applicants.

Terry Collins

for Council to work with its liquid trade waste customers, including public health and environmental protection, asset management, water conservation, and Council’s regulatory and licence compliance obligations as well as its workers’ health and safety.

It also outlines Council’s regulatory and licence compliance obligations.

The Draft Policy will be available on Council’s Your Voice Our Coast page for public feedback in April.

The NSW DPE Guidelines and associated framework prescribe sound pricing, including appropriate trade waste regulation policy and approvals.

The proposed policy will provide a regulatory framework

The Water and Sewer Delivery Plan 2022-2026 Progress Report can be viewed at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au –search ‘water delivery plan report’.

Source: Central Coast Council

The region achieved a four per cent growth in tourism in the year ended June 2022

The water treatment plant at Mardi

Central Coast Council has come under fire for reduced performance targets in its recently released draft Central Coast Council Operational Plan 2023-24.

While Council says the plan continues a focus on delivering services for the community while supporting Council’s ongoing financial sustainability, community activist Kevin Brooks has questioned why targets have been reduced despite huge hikes in general and water rates.

Speaking at the public forum prior to the March 28 Council meeting, Brooks highlighted longer DA determination times and reduced targets for road resurfacing and drainage infrastructure as outlined in the Plan.

“Over the next four years, Council will receive – on average – an eye-watering $70M per year extra as a result of last year’s combined general and water rate hikes – plus inflation on top,” Brooks said.

Draft Operational Plan cops some criticism

“So, we might have expected higher performance targets in this updated operational plan.

“Instead, targets are being reduced.

“Last year’s plan and delivery program set a target mean of 70 days to determine development applications.

“This year’s plan adds an extra 10 days to that target despite the Administrator promising a ‘big improvement’ after hiring 19 new people (staff and contractors).”

Brooks said roads should be a priority, but Council has reduced “even last year’s woeful target” on kilometres of road to be resurfaced.

“There’s also a reduction in kilometres of new drainage infrastructure,” he said.

“Not one of the 12 water and sewer targets on page 56 have been set higher than last year’s plan – drafted before water rates went up supposedly to fund improvements.”

Brooks also criticised a reduction in public health

inspections and in completing maintenance on parks and reserves.

“A number of targets from last year’s plan have disappeared altogether –including more than 20 on disability and access, for example,” he said.

“This is what happens when you get taxation without representation.

“This plan is further evidence that the underlying causes of the financial crisis –management calibre,

organisational culture, inefficiency and low productivity – have still not been addressed.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said some of the previously proposed measures were unrealistic in terms of being achieved.

“We need to continue building trust within the organisation,” he said.

“The financial performance of the organisation has turned around and Council’s steadfast financial management has increased our financial stability.

“This draft Operational Plan shows a continued focus on delivery of services to the community through prudent expenditure and incorporates the necessary adjustments to accommodate the increased depreciation trend and rising costs due to inflation.

“This is not a Central Coast Council problem but a challenge facing all councils in the current economic climate, and notably the limitations placed on councils to increase revenue.

“The draft Operational Plan shows our community that we are making sure our roads, open spaces, water and sewer assets and leisure and waste facilities are repaired and renewed.

Rik Hart talks about the operational plan to CCN.

“At the March 28 meeting, I amended the resolution to include a table identifying percentage changes in proposed Fees and Charges for 2023-24, compared to the same fee in 2022-23.

Townhouses planned for quiet cul de sac

Opposition from surrounding residents is loud and clear – they do not want a double-storey townhouse complex in their small, quiet cul de sac in Gorokan.

The proposed development site at 1 Glenice Cl is surrounded by low-density, predominantly single-storey houses, although the general residential zoning allows for multi-dwelling housing.

Plans have been submitted to Central Coast Council (DA 3836/2022) to build four threebedroom townhouses in a twostorey complex on the 1,050sqm block.

Each townhouse will have a single attached garage and there will be a parking bay for four vehicles.

The DA says that the aim is to take advantage of a large land parcel to deliver attractive multi-dwelling development to increase housing close to public transport, services, schools, childcare and recreational opportunities.

“The proposed built form will

be compatible within the existing residential context of the immediate locality, noting compliance to prescribed maximum height and floor space ratio controls under the Central Coast Development Control Plan 2020,” the DA says.

The developer says that a conscious effort has been made to minimise adverse amenity impacts on neighbouring properties in terms of privacy, acoustics and overshadowing.

This includes the siting and orientation of the building combined compliant setbacks to ensure adjoining properties will continue to receive a minimum of three hours of uninterrupted solar access at mid-winter.

However, the developer is seeking a Variation on Merit for the townhouse building as the two middle units “will not achieve three hours solar access to half the private open space … (but there is) reasonable solar access to the

dwelling given the north facing living areas and the rear open areas will achieve some solar access through the middle of the day mid-winter”.

The developer is also seeking a Variation on Merit for a “minor” non-compliance with rear setbacks at both ground and first floor level, due to the irregular shape of the block of land.

Residents surrounding the proposed development have raised concerns on a number of fronts.

“This means the community will be able to easily see which fees and charges are proposed to change in the coming financial year, while providing greater transparency with the community.”

Hart said highlights in the draft Plan included: road and drainage upgrades and renewals; network improvements to strengthen water supply and sewer treatment; upgrades to leisure centres, playgrounds and sports grounds; pollutant trap upgrades and coastal erosion remediation works; community programs and events to build resilience and connections; town centre and tourism facility upgrades; and waste and resource recovery facility upgrades.

You can view the Draft Operational Plan and Draft Fees and Charges for 2023-24 at yourvoiceourcoast.com until May, with Hart encouraging residents to have their say.

Terry Collins

storey or multi-dwellings as the profile of the area is generally single-storey housing.

Residents are also worried about the extra traffic in the small quiet cul-de-sac where the local children are known to sometimes play.

“There are four townhouses each with three bedrooms but there is provision for only eight vehicles on-site so there’s going to be more parking in the street,” one objector said.

They are concerned about their privacy with some windows in the townhouse development overlooking their yards or looking into their bathrooms, overshadowing and loss of sunlight, noise and air pollution from more vehicles and residents in a multidwelling complex which they say is out of character of the area.

One objector said the visual impact was not fitting in with the local housing and there was no precedence for double-

“(Glenice Cl) cannot cope with visitor parking for the current residents and there have been near misses previously due to parking limitations and traffic.

“The garbage truck currently has problems getting in and out of Glenice Cl as it is and more so when there are cars parked in the street.

“Glenice Cl is not equipped or the right size to handle the large amount of traffic congestion and parking issues that this proposed development will bring.”

Sue Murray

Kevin Brooks has been a vocal critic of Council’s productivity policies

The development site in Gorokan This house will be demolished to make way for townhouses

Get off to a strong start as a sharemarket investor

WITH Michelle BALTAZAR

Editor-in-Chief • Money magazine

There’s a lot to love about shares – and if you’re keen to make your money work harder, the stockmarket looks set to deliver opportunities in 2023, despite its recent volatility.

Over the past 12 months, Aussie shares have notched up total returns (capital growth plus dividends) of 10.4%.

In the past decade, the Australian market has delivered total returns averaging 8.7%pa.

By comparison, you’ll be lucky to earn much more than 4% on cash and, unlike shares, those returns don’t come with potential tax savings.

Managed fund giant Vanguard expects Australian shares to deliver returns of between 4.5% and 6.5% in 2023, with global shares (excluding Australia) forecast to generate capital growth of 5.6% to 7.6%.

Ashley Glover, head of sales trading, APAC and Canada, at CMC Markets, believes these expectations are reasonable.

However, he cautions: “It’s likely shares may have a bumpy year ahead.

“We’ve seen a string of interest rate rises, and it takes time for these rate hikes to impact consumer spending, which can shape market sentiment.”

That said, Glover notes that with plenty of industry sectors to choose from, the Aussie sharemarket looks set to dish up opportunities.

New trends in ETFs

If you’re unsure about which shares to buy, or don’t have sufficient capital for a diverse portfolio, exchange traded funds (ETFs) are worth considering.

They are bought and sold in much the same way as shares.

However, with a large basket of underlying investments, they offer considerable diversification for low fees.

According to Vanguard, the rate rises that kicked off in 2022 have fuelled interest in fixedincome ETFs.

“In 2023, our return expecta-

tions for fixed income have significantly increased compared to a year ago,” says Minh Tieu, Vanguard’s head of ETF capital markets, Asia Pacific.

“We forecast global bonds to return 3.9%-4.9% and domestic bonds to return 3.7%-4.7% over the next decade.”

Glover says themed ETFs are also appealing.

“In the wake of the Medibank, Optus and Latitude hacks, a themed ETF such as the BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF could attract investor interest,” he says.

With 2023 looking as though it could deliver a bumpy ride, it’s important to consider ways to navigate market volatility.

Stop-loss orders are a feature of many trading platforms and a popular risk management tool. They set parameters around buying or selling a share at a specific “trigger price”.

“Today’s ‘guaranteed’ stoploss orders ensure shares are sold at the price an investor specifies, regardless of market volatility,” says Glover.

This doesn’t just help investors manage a portfolio, it

Tips for cutting costs, from the hard-core savers

At a time when many households are struggling to make ends meet, for tips on how to keep your costs down, look to the financially independent, retire early (FIRE) and financially independent (FI) communities.

The FIREs are the gurus of cost-cutting, and in their online blogs you will find an abun-

dance of detailed strategies about how to live cheaply.

Here are nine key FIRE saving strategies:

1 Get out of debt. Make paying down any credit card debt a top priority.

2 Cut down on frivolous purchases, such as online clothes shopping, electronics and toys for the kids. Don’t spend your

weekend browsing the shops or looking online.

3 If possible, live close to where you work. Walk, cycle or take public transport.

The cost of driving can add up. If you cover 20 kilometres a day, you could easily spend tens of thousands of dollars over a decade – and even more if you drive a family sedan or SUV.

4 Stop eating out and learn to cook meals from scratch. A $100 per week restaurant habit costs $52,000 every 10 years. A $12 lunch twice a week adds up to $12,480.

5 Sell any items in the house that you no longer need or want.

6 Make extra payments on your mortgage.

helps lock in higher profits when shares have moved in your favour, while also limiting losses. Smoother ride

Dollar-cost averaging – a process of steadily drip-feeding money into shares rather than investing a large lump sum in a single trade – can also be used to manage the market’s highs and lows.

“This tends to be an underutilised strategy, but it can be very effective at smoothing out the price paid for shares over time,” says Glover.

Of course, the simplest way to

manage volatility may be to do nothing at all.

“Unless you need the money, there is often no reason to sell shares just because their values take a short-term dip,” says Glover.

“If you sell, the person who is on the other side of the transaction – the buyer – is just going to convert your losses to their profits when the share price recovers.

“Remember, too, dividend payments can compensate for any short-term declines in a share’s value.”

Choosing a broking platform is also an important step.

The good news is that despite high inflation, we’re unlikely to see significant increases in broking costs this year.

Broking platform Stake recently announced a small lift in its brokerage, but this is unlikely to be the start of a broader trend.

“With the big trading platforms offering zero or very low brokerage, low costs are now entrenched in the market, and investors expect to pay minimal brokerage,” says Glover.

He believes new investors could select a broker based on the availability of free educational resources and support.

7 Cut your grocery spending. Buy whole, fresh ingredients instead of packaged meals. Stock up on basics at the cheaper supermarkets.

8 Cut back on holidays and use credit card rewards to pay for them.

9 Pick up extra jobs that fit in with normal working hours.

A big driver for FIREs is

making a smaller environmental footprint: they are careful about food waste, planning their meals and using leftovers.

Food waste is estimated to cost the average family up to $3800 a year, as well as creating 300kg of waste per person, according to the Fight Food Waste Cooperative Research Centre.

Beachcomber wins Hotel of the Year award

The Beachcomber Hotel & Resort at Toukley has taken out the award for 2022 Hotel of Year across Choice Hotels Asia-Pac Ascend Hotel group.

The hotel franchise group’s awards shine a light on the top performing hotels across its growing network.

Five franchisees were selected based on exceeding excellent customer service and guest experiences across each of Choice Hotels Asia-Pac’s five brand categories – Ascend Hotel Collection, Clarion,

Quality, Comfort and Econo Lodge – and celebrated with this prestigious annual award.

The Hotel of the Year Awards are measured on a ‘likelihood to recommend’ metric calculated on direct and verified customer feedback, combined with franchisee engagement in Choice Hotels Asia-Pac programs and initiatives such as the Choice Privileges loyalty program, corporate social responsibility partnerships and numerous marketing promotions throughout the year.

The Beachcomber took out

Hotel of the Year in the Ascend Hotel Collection category, while three Victorian hotels won the Clarion, Quality and Econo Lodge sections and a Mackay hotel won the Comfort category.

The five winning hotels will go into the pool of global properties competing for the Best of Choice Awards to be announced later this month and celebrated at the Choice Hotels International Convention in Las Vegas at the end of April.

Source: Choice Hotels Asia-Pac

Regional library still on agenda despite tender setback

Central Coast Council Administrator Rik Hart is hopeful we will have a new regional library by the end of next year, despite another delay in the tender process.

With only one submission received to build the library at 123A Donnison St and demolish the building currently on site, Council rejected the tender at its March 28 meeting, deciding instead to negotiate with the one tenderer in an effort to lower the quote.

A report to the meeting said the contract’s evaluation team had completed an initial evaluation of the submission in accordance with the tender’s evaluation criteria.

“The team) has indicated that a successful outcome is most likely to be achieved through direct negotiation with one or all of the shortlisted proponents in lieu of a re-tender,” the report said.

In August 2021, Hart approved the use of a two-stage process, an Expression of Interest (EOI) followed by a selective Request for Tender (RFT), combining the demolition of the building on site and construction of the

library.

Tenders closed on March 17. “Council has evaluated submissions and identified departures and clarifications that present risk to Council and

value management opportunities that must be investigated by Council to ensure best value for money is obtained for this contract,” the report said.

The library will be funded by a combination of developer contributions, a special levy collected from former Gosford Council, Federal Government Community Grants and internally restricted funds.

A total of $2,462,993 had been spent on the project to the end of February.

While the tender evaluation is confidential, Hart said the Council would now go through a process of value management.

“We will go through the pricing and eliminate some

perceived risks … and hopefully lower the tender,” he said.

“I am still hopeful it will be built by the end of 2024.”

The regional library was originally to form part of a larger cultural precinct on a large parcel of land between Mann and Donnison Sts, which was also to have included a performing arts centre and linking walkways.

Amid fears of escalating project costs, Council decided in October 2019 to shelve plans for the cultural precinct and instead push ahead with plans for the regional library as a stand-alone project.

Terry Collins

RDACC says election result puts Coast in advantageous position

Regional Development Australia Central Coast (RDACC) Chair, Lawrie McKinna, says having four Labor MPs on the Central Coast puts the region in an advantageous position following the Minns Government’s landslide win in the March 25 State election.

“I would like to congratulate all of our elected members for the Central Coast, following the recent state elections – Liesl Tesch in Gosford, David Harris in Wyong, David Mehan in The

Entrance, Yasmin Catley in Swansea and Adam Crouch in Terrigal,” he said.

“Despite some closely contested battles, there has been no change to any of our local seats and I look forward to continue working with all of them to make the Central Coast a priority in terms of funding and investment for the NSW state government.”

RDACC Deputy Chair Anna Cruckshank said that as always,collaboration would be key to achieving real results for the region.

“To date, RDACC has been

successful in working collaboratively with our elected officials and regional leaders to attract more than $1.5B in

regional infrastructure investment to the Coast,” she said.

“This was the result of

collaboration from all levels of government and sides of politics, as well as co-operation across multiple industry and business sectors.

“With this change of state government, RDACC will continue to facilitate this level of collaboration to tackle the Coast’s key priorities including regional infrastructure investment, modern manufacturing, jobs growth and housing affordability.”

McKinna thanked all the region’s MPs for their work to date and said the results provided an opportunity to

build on collective achievements.

“As a region, we have proven we can work together to achieve positive outcomes for the Central Coast community – no matter what side of politics or level of government you’re from,” he said.

“We can now strengthen these relationships and build on these collective achievements to achieve even better outcomes for the people of the Central Coast.”

Source: RDACC

4766

RDACC Chair Lawrie McKinna and Deputy Chair Anna Cruckshank

An artist’s impression of how the regional library might look

The Beachcomber Hotel & Resort at Toukley

Mental health services expanded on the Coast

A redesign of primary mental health care services combined with an increase in funding will deliver an additional 500 funded therapy sessions for people living in the Central Coast region over the next two years.

Facilitated by the Hunter New England Central Coast Primary Health Network (PHN), the additional services will cover face-to-face and telehealth sessions for children, First Nations people, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and lowincome earners.

CEO of the PHN Richard Nankervis said changes to the allocation of mental health sessions focussed on health needs, equitable access and the introduction or availability of other mental health services tailored to specific cohorts while offering a stepped model of care targeting individual needs.

Manager of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Leah Morgan said the PHN recognised there was a spectrum of needs within the region and consequently there must also be a spectrum of services.

“The changes we’ve made to

the service provision means individuals will be more likely to receive a service which meets their needs while also making the best use of workforce and technology,” she said.

“In addition to the patient services offered through the PHN, GPs can continue to access the GP psychiatry

support line for advice on the management of their patients.”

Mental health services funded by the PHN that will be available across the region from July 1 include Mental Health Services for Vulnerable People which expands the scope of the program currently known as Psychological Therapies and gives priority to

LIVING WITH friends CARED FOR BY

people experiencing financial hardship and having difficulty/ barriers in accessing mental health treatment in the primary care sector.

The PHN’s Head to Health service provides free and immediate support from trained professionals who work with a person on a short to medium term basis to find the

best services to meet their needs.

People can visit the Head to Health service at either Tuggerah, Warners Bay or Cessnock or phone 1800 595 212 between 8.30am and 5pm to receive assistance. No appointment, referral, Medicare card, or Australian citizenship is needed.

The Telepsychiatry Service aims to increase access to psychiatry services for people aged 16 or more with severe and persistent mental illness.

The target groups include women with perinatal depression, First Nations people, people living in rural and remote areas, people on low income, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and people with a recent suicide attempt or suicidal behaviour/ ideation.

The PHN has recently commissioned a new children’s mental health service with the aim of increasing access for vulnerable children up to the age of 12.

Also, there is Wellbeing4Kids, a free program supporting families to raise happier, healthier children whereby a specialist child mental health team provides assessments and counselling for emotional, social and behavioural challenges.

There is also grief and bereavement counselling for children aged from three through to 17.

Sue Murray

The team at Head to Health at Tuggerah

Horticulture author and along with Pete Little, hosts ‘At Home with The Gardening Gang’

8 - 10am live every Saturday on CoastFM96.3

cheralyn

cheralyn.darcey

Everyone’s doing it so why not you?

This weekend may be the perfect time for you to get your hands dirty and start gardening or perhaps you are experienced and have an area that needs a new garden?

I’ve created a bit of a blueprint to lead any gardener, newbie to those needing a refresher, through the steps to start or start again.

Creating a garden is one of the great joys in life that bring so much more to the gardener than produce and beauty.

The health benefits are well known, all that fresh air and a healthy dose of physical exercise but gardening is also a good for the mind and soul.

I can’t tell you how many times I have buried my problems, metaphorically, in the earth at Lake Munmorah! Gardening can sometimes seem hard, expensive, or overwhelming but if you plan, I promise, gardening will grow on you.

STEP ONE: Assess the Lay of the Land

What have you already got?

Grab a note pad and roughly

sketch up a plan of your garden area as it is.

Note the plants that you already have including trees.

Also sketch in areas that are established and include utility elements as well such as sheds.

If you already plan to remove anything, note that.

Work out the available light to all areas of your garden space.

Full sun means at least 6 hours of direct sun, part-shade is between 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight and shade will mean less than 4 hours of direct sun falling upon your plants.

The areas will change over the course of a year, so to get an accurate read you will need to create a sun map at least twice a season; around eight times a year.

To make things easier, there are phone apps or the free to use site - www.suncalc.org that will help you determine all the shadow and light areas right throughout the year in your garden.

Note other factors such as wind possibilities, the gradient, fences, other garden structures and the feeling you have about

A Garden from Scratch

the garden now.

This is important to your final design.

If you already like the space then it’s a matter of simply adding what you need but if it’s not a part of your garden dreams, well there’s some additional design decisions you will need to make.

STEP TWO: A Garden Wish List

What is it that you want in and from your garden? Back to the note pad and create a list of what you want in and from your garden.

Here are a few ideas: a veggie patch, flower garden, a place to entertain, somewhere to read a book and relax, a wildlife sanctuary, a beautiful view, a family/pet play area, a shed, compost & worm farm, chook run, trees, green/shade house, herb garden.

Write it all down for future reference.

This isn’t all going to happy this weekend or perhaps even this month or even year but by noting all your wishes, you can decide what is a priority or achievable now.

Most importantly, this list will make sure that you leave room for additions later.

You don’t want to be pulling up a newish lawn to make way for a chook shed next year.

STEP THREE: Garden Style

Garden style is so often overlooked by beginner gardeners who jump in and quickly throw it all together.

Often, it’s in the second year or so, once the garden is getting established that they step back and notice that they might like

NEWS & EVENTS

Volunteer Coordinator needed - Kincumber Eco Garden

You will support garden membership, plan activities that maintain engagement and keep our garden tidy, safe, and productive. You will have experienced support.

Enquire at Kincumber Neighbourhood Centre: manager@kincumberdnc.com.au

The Fungal Kingdom - Saturday 8th April - 1:30pm for a 2pm start, Phillip House, 21 Old Penang Road, Kariong

Anna Durkin will share her work as a Citizen Scientist in this field, educating us with her skill and knowledge and answering our questions about the fungal kingdom of the Sydney region. $3 entry (with lucky door prize) A small selection of plants also on sale. austplants.com.au/Central-Coast-Events

Create an Orang-utan’s Forest Home - Monday 17th April 10:30 – 12:30pm

Using collage with Eco Artist Rachel Bunney. Learn about all forests and the different living creatures and plants that live there our special guest, the orang-utan from Borneo, as he or she is very threatened and in need of our help. Come colour a forest for your orang-utan to live. Using colour and collage we are going create a forest for our wool orangutan to build his/her nest in. Kariong Eco Garden.

Tickets: events.humanitix.com/ host/60d148eb7d6700000a913316

GARDENING PLANNER

This week you could plant: culinary herbs, beetroot, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbages, carrot, cauliflower, chicory, cress, endive, kohlrabi, leeks, lettuce, mustard, onions, parsnips, peas, radishes, salsify, shallots, silverbeet, spinach, spring onions, swedes, turnips, ageratum, alyssum, calendula, candytuft, carnation, cineraria, columbine, coneflower, delphinium, dianthus, everlasting daisy, forget-me-not, foxglove, godetia, gypsophila, hollyhock, larkspur, linaria, lobelia, nemesia, nigella, pansy, polyanthus, poppy, primula, snapdragon, statice, stock, sweet pea, viola, wallflower

a certain style to their garden. A lot of time and money can be wasted if you don’t get a simple statement together that defines your garden style.

You may already know that you want a rambling cottage garden filled with traditionally perennial cut flowers, a kitchen herb plot, and a welcoming picket fence.

That’s great, write it down as this will make you think twice before purchasing those huge stunning sculptural cacti at the next plant fair.

If you can’t decide then pick up gardening magazines and books or hop onto the internet and create a collection of images that really make you feel ‘at home’.

Don’t collect images just because they are wonderful, but rather choose those that you can imagine living in.

Pretty soon a garden style will emerge, and you can use this when designing your garden, buying plants and other garden elements.

STEP FOUR: Getting It All Together

First the soil will need to be assessed and improved if needed.

The greatest expense I have made in gardens has always

been on soil and while it’s not as exciting as exotic plants, it shows down the track.

With a rich, healthy foundation, all gardens can grow to their potential.

Now you have your garden masterplan, start with one small area or task at a time.

If you are keen to grow edibles, pop in one garden bed or a couple of veggies and a

few herbs.

Perhaps you need a hedge to define an entertainment area or provide a windbreak, start there or maybe this is the weekend you lay a lawn for the family.

At least with a plan and a wish list, you will stay on track while your ‘garden from scratch’ evolves around your home.

WITH CHERALYN DARCEY

Lots can be done to prevent falls

Each year, the month of April marks April Falls, a campaign aiming to raise awareness of falls prevention and help those at risk of falling to stay on their feet.

Having good balance reduces the risk of trips and falls and helps us to live independently as we get older, which is why this year’s April Falls theme is Better Balance for Fall Prevention.

Central Coast Local Health District (CCLHD) physiotherapist Matt Egan said it was important to do doing strength and balance exercises before you develop a risk of falls.

“Your balance can begin to deteriorate in your 50s, but many people wait until they’re older and frailer to do something about it,” Egan said.

“Falls can be really significant and life changing events as we get older so it’s important to act on early changes to your

balance, strength and vision.

“Don’t wait until having a fall to take action.”

Egan recommends simple

tests to do at home to check on your balance, like standing on one leg for 60 seconds and standing on one leg with your

eyes closed, without wobbling.

It’s best to do these tests near a kitchen bench in case you need to grab it for safety.

Family raises $12,000 for cancer research

The family of a much-loved Kanwal husband and father who died from prostate cancer has raised nearly $12,000 for the cause at a 4×4 charity event.

If you struggle, there is help available.

“People assume falls are just a normal part of ageing but most cases of falls are preventable and there’s a lot people can do to reduce their risk of falling,” Egan said.

NSW Health offers a range of programs to help older adults with balance, including Healthy and Active for Life, a free 10week online program and Stepping On, a free sevenweek program conducted face-to-face at community locations across the Central Coast.

Other activities recommended to improve balance include tai chi, yoga and lawn bowls.

For more information visit: www.activeandhealthy.nsw. gov.au

PUBLIC NOTICE - ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

NC-120 Petitioner or Attorney: Amira Hasenbush, Esq. State Bar Number: 293968 Firm Name: All Family Legal | Law Office of Amira Hasenbush Street Address: 17043 Ventura Blvd City: Encino State: CA Zip Code: 91316 Telephone No.:(323) 813-1199 Fax No.: (323) 594-8192 Email Address:amira@allfamilylegal.com Attorney for Christian Ross-Daniel Ward. Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles Address: 111 North Hill Street, Los Angeles CA 90012

Branch Name: Stanley Mosk Courthouse PETITION OF CHRISTIAN ROSS-DANIEL WARD AND BRUCE CHUN MAN TSUI ON BEHALF OF ALICIA ZARA WARD-TSUI FOR CHANGE OF NAME. ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE -- CHANGE OF NAME. FILED Superior Court of California County of Los Angeles 03/07/2023, Case Number :23STCP00751.

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS. Christian Ross-Daniel Ward and Bruce Chun Man Tsui on Behalf of Alicia filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name Alicia Zara Ward-Tsui to Proposed name Alicia Zara Ward. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes reason for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING. Date: 1 May 2023 Time: 10AM Dept.: 72 Room:731. The address of the court is: same as noted above. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in the county in which petitioner resides or, if no county, in the local subdivision or territory where petitioner resides.

Date: 03/07/2023 Judge: Hon. Curtis A. Kin, Judge of the Superior Court. Form Adopted for Mandatory Use. Judicial Council of California. NC-120 (Rev. January 1, 2023). Order to Show Cause -- Change of Name. Code of Civil Procedure, section 1277.

The event was held at Watagans National Park on March 18 to honour Mike Berton, who passed away from advanced prostate cancer in 2021 at the age of just 53. His wife Jen and nephews, Logan Grattan (21) and Ronan Grattan Grattan (19), took it upon themselves to continue his legacy and raise vital funds for Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia to help make a difference.

Logan thanked the community for its unwavering support, and for helping the family smash its $10,000 fundraising goal.

“We are so proud to honour Uncle Mike’s memory and to make a difference for an important cause,” he said.

“Thank you to every single person who showed their support – whether it was by joining us for a day of fourwheel-driving, or by donating to our fundraiser.

“If we can save just one other family from going through what we have been through, then our efforts are worth it.”

Across the Central Coast alone over 3,400 men are living with prostate cancer, with an additional 300 men newly diagnosed each year.

The community can still donate via https://fundraise. pcfa.org.au/fundraiser/ jenberton/4×4-prostatecancer-awarenessfundraiser-2023.

Prostate Cancer Foundation

of Australia (PCFA) CEO Anne Savage said Jen Berton and her extended family have helped to raise significant awareness and funds over the past two years, making a significant difference to Australian men and families impacted by prostate cancer.

“Her husband Mike was diagnosed with prostate cancer at the age of 51 … (and) passed way at age 53, just 22 months after his diagnosis, leaving behind a loving wife and two teenage children who are now honouring his memory through their action to stop other families from enduring the same heartbreaking loss,” Savage said.

The family raised over $6,000 last year, doubling their fundraising results this year.

“Above and beyond fundraising, their efforts go a long way to getting the conversation started, supporting men’s health, and promoting early detection through PSA testing,” Savage said.

“Their fundraising will ensure that we can drive forward lifesaving research, enable earlier detection of the disease, and improve survival outcomes for men like Mike, who all too often get caught off guard, without ever being made aware that they are at risk.”

For prostate cancer information and support, call PCFA on 1800 22 00 99.

Source: PCFA

A family group at the 4X4 fundraiser

Mariners let out a Roar after big win in Gosford

FOOTBALL

The Central Coast Mariners have proven their wet weather credentials, sending Brisbane Roar packing after a confident 4-1 win in Gosford on Saturday evening, April 1.

The game marked captain/ keeper Danny Vukovic’s 300th game in the A-League.

The young Mariners team celebrated in style by scoring goals three goals in the first half, after Vukovic saved an early free kick strike by The Roar.

After that close call, the team lifted with the first Mariners goal coming only 15 minutes into the first half by Brazillian striker Marco Tulio.

The momentum continued unabated with the home side dominating the Brisbane rivals on most challenges.

Goals number two and three were delivered by Josh Nisbet and Max Balard respectively.

The local fans were in football

BASKETBALL

The Central Coast Waves Basketball Association (CCWBA) has shut the doors to its courts at Niagara Park Stadium and suspended all trading, leaving hundreds of domestic and representative players blindsided.

CCWBA had contacted Basketball NSW expressing concerns about the association’s financial stability and on March 28, things took an abrupt turn.

The recent COVID-19 pandemic left many small businesses and communitybased sporting organisations struggling and dedicated Waves Board members tried their best to navigate through the unforeseen financial adversity but the aftershock of the pandemic proved too much.

CCWBA hasn’t thrown in the

paradise at halftime despite the cool autumn rain bucketing down.

The second half saw a spirited home side run onto the park and it wasn’t long before the

Mariners’ cannon went off with a bang again.

This time it was the team’s super goal scorer Jason Cummings who took a penalty after a hand ball in the box.

Cummings has made an art of successful penalty shots and this one was no exception, taking the score to 4-0. Things were looking good at this point, though captain

Vukovic still had his work cut out for him after a quality strike on goal from the Brisbane outfit.

Coach Nick Montgomery characteristically rotated his

Central Coast Waves go under

towel yet as Basketball NSW continues to work closely with directors to have finances audited, while the association takes measures to ensure plans are in place to reduce its debts.

Some relief may be in sight for representative Waves athletes with an offer extended by Central Coast Basketball (CCB) to play out the remainder of the Spalding Waratah League season under its management.

CCB, which operates out of Breakers Indoor Sports Stadium at Terrigal, has had its own economic challenges in recent years and is empathetic to the Waves’ struggles.

“Many community sporting organisations struggled during the pandemic, and we were not immune to that,” CCB General Manager Matthew Tredrea said.

“However, through careful planning and management from our team and our Board, we are now in a sound position.”

For a lot of Waves players in the under-12 program, this is their first year of representative basketball and for some Under18s athletes, this will be their

squad to give as much game time as possible to his players.

Among them was new Mariners recruit Dylan WenzelHalls, subbed on for Cummings who received great applause from the home crowd.

The Roar was awarded a penalty by the VAR in the 80th minute, despite the referee initially ruling against a deflection that had hit the arm of Brian Kaltak.

Brisbane’s Jay O’Shea slotted it past captain Vukovic to muddy the clean score sheet.

The win brings the Mariners back up to the third spot on the Isuzu-UTE A-League ladder, just ahead of the Western Sydney Wanderers.

The Mariners hit the road next week with a trip to face Western United in Ballarat on Good Friday, before heading home to take on the dominant league leaders Melbourne City on Saturday, April 15 at Industree Group Stadium.

monumental season, and that is just one of the reasons we look forward to welcoming these teams to continue their basketball journey on the Central Coast with our Club,” Tredrea said.

As a staple of the Central Coast sporting community since 2006, CCWBA has housed numerous programs from grass roots Learn To Play to inclusive programs like One Culture.

Board members and Basketball NSW will meet in the coming weeks.

last.

“It is important for these young members of the community to play out the remainder of this potentially

A spokesperson said Basketball NSW is working with Central Coast Council regarding the finals of the current CCWBA domestic competitions being completed, with more information to be announced shortly.

David Abrahams

The Mariners embrace after a goal from Josh Nisbet

Photo: CCM Media

Stefan Kataric

A Central Coast Waves game in progress

SURF LIFESAVING

Avoca Beach’s Natalia Drobot has taken gold in the U19 Female Single Ski Australian Surf Life Saving Championships in Perth.

“It means a lot, coming from Avoca – there’s only a small

Avoca Beach kayaker takes gold at nationals

number of us here,” Drobot said.

“Just putting the cap on and racing for them is special, and getting a win for them as well makes it incredible.”

The 18-year-old is currently training on the Gold Coast as part of Paddle Australia’s Sprint

Kayaking National Centre of Excellence, saying the flat conditions at Scarborough Beach worked in her favour.

“I think definitely in these flat conditions, my kayaking training has paid off a lot,” Drobot said.

“I’m super happy to have

these conditions; I know everyone else loves to have a big surf but for a kayaker it’s a dream out there,” she said.

Earlier in the week, Drobot teamed up with Avoca Beach clubmate and fellow Australia kayaker Ella Beereto win gold in the Open Female Double Ski.

“Coming into this event we had no expectations on us because this is our first carnival of the year,” Drobot said.

“Coming away with two golds is just incredible, it’s a bonus.

“Being here, with everyone, is a win already and having the medals just adds to it.

“It means a lot to even be allowed to do this carnival as a kayaker; I’m feeling very lucky.”

Source: Australian Surf Life Saving Championships

Ninja athletes heading to US for world championships

NINJA WARRIOR

Fifteen ninjas from the Obstacle Course Racing School at Tuggerah will be competing in the 2023 Ultimate Ninja Athlete Association World Series Championship Finals in Orlando, Florida in July.

Their coach Mick Gleeson said there were only two ways for these athletes to qualify to compete in the World Championships.

They had to finish in the top five in either the 2022 Australia Ninja Games National Championships held in January this year in Brisbane or in special events as part of the 2023 World Ninja Athlete Games.

The qualifying events in the World Games is a set course which is replicated at local gyms around the world and competitions are held during the same week with athletes competing on a worldwide leader board.

Tuggerah’s ninja school also held a 2023 Australia Ninja Games National Qualifier over the weekend April 1-2 with the top three or 50 per cent in an age group (whichever is greater) qualifying to compete at the 2023 Nationals in January 2024.

Results are: Mika Coombe, aged 7, 3rd female 7&under

(7U) World Ninja Athlete Games (WNAG), 3rd Female 7U, qualified top 3; Spencer O’Donoghue, aged 8, 12th Male 7U Australian Ninja Games (ANG), 3rd Male 9U

WNAG, 7th Male 9U, qualified on percentage; Cody Coombe, aged 10, 19th Male 9U ANG,

3rd Male 11U WNAG, 4th Male 11U, qualified on percentage; Melody O’Donoghue, aged 10, 3rd Female 9U ANG, 1st Female

9U WNAG, 2nd Female 11U, qualified top 3; Casey McLaren, aged 10, 1st Female 9U ANG,

1st Female 11U WNAG, 1st Female 11U, qualified top 3; Malachi Chown, aged 11, 6th

Male 9U ANG, 2nd Male 11U

WNAG, 2nd Male 11U, qualified

top 3; Oliver Maughan, aged 12, 20th Male 11U ANG, 1st Male 11U WNAG, 2nd Male 13U, qualified top 3; Emilyclaire Bond, aged 13, 3rd Female 13U

WNAG, 2nd Female 13U, qualified top 3; Joshua Chown, aged 14, 4th Male 13U ANG;

Hunter Maughan, aged 14, 1st Male 13U ANG; 1st Male 15U WNAG; 1st Male 15U, qualified top 3; Mitchell Townend, aged 14, 1st Male 15U WNAG (qualified in Victoria); Skye Warkotz, aged 15, 3rd Female 15U ANG, 2nd Female 15U

WNAG, 3rd Female Amateur, qualified top 3; Ally Rogers, aged 16, 3rd Female Amateur ANG, 1st Female Amateur WNAG, 2nd Female Amateur, qualified top 3; Amy Gorton, aged 17, 1st Female 15U ANG, 2nd Female Amateur WNAG,

1st Female Amateur, qualified top 3; and Shayne McLaren, aged 54, 11th Male 40+ Masters ANG, 1st Male 40+ Masters WNAG, 2nd Male 40+ Masters, qualified top 3.

The Obstacle Course Racing School at Tuggerah is a safe and fun place for all fitness levels from beginners to elite athletes, offering six levels of children’s classes from age three upwards, adult classes and private training sessions.

Head Coach Mick Gleeson is an obstacle racing specialist with more than 10 years’ experience racing and training in the obstacle course racing world.

He has been a qualified private trainer for more than 11 years and his passion for obstacles as an elite racer led him to design and create the incredible custom-built space at Tuggerah with numerous obstacles and fitness equipment.

Natalia Drobot in action

Photo: Harvpix

Source: The Obstacle Course Racing School

The 2023 Worlds Team from Tuggerah’s Obstacle Racing School with Coach Mick Gleeson