Coast Community News 389

Richardsons still making memories on 65th anniversary

See page 4

Budget provides some relief for Coast families

Central Coast families are set to benefit from a range of cost-ofliving relief measures and increased access to bulk-billed GP appointments outlined in Tuesday’s Federal Budget.

Increases to JobSeeker payments and Commonwealth rent relief, along with Medicare improvements, will see the pressure ease slightly for

thousands of the region’s residents.

The budget allocates $3.5B to help GPs provide free, bulk-billed consultations to pensioners, concession card holders and under 16-year-olds, with around 84,875 people in Dobell and 73,130 in Robertson set to benefit.

An increase in the base rate of income payments like JobSeeker,

Austudy and Youth Allowance by $40 per fortnight, while being criticised is some quarters as being too little, will provide some relief for around 7,225 people in Dobell and 5,195 in Robertson.

More than 650 single parents regionwide will be able to switch from JobSeeker to receive Parenting Payment (Single) until their youngest

Business Sport

See page 21

child turns 14 (up from 8 years old), with around 520 eligible singles in Dobell and 135 in Robertson. These single parents will be $176.90 better off each fortnight, receiving a base rate of $922.10 per fortnight compared to the current JobSeeker Payment rate of $745.20.

Continued page 5

Structural Pools & Spas

Lovise and Max Richardson with the card they received from King Charles

Lovise and Max Richardson of Adelene Village in Wyoming celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on April 12.

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Shirley Shuttle celebrates 15 years with two new vehicles

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Editor: Ross Barry, David Abrahams (Digital Editor)

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The Shirley Shuttle Cancer Outpatient Service Central Coast (affectionately known as The Shirley Shuttle) has celebrated 15 years of service to Central Coast residents.

A special event at Community Transport Central Coast HQ at Berkeley Vale on May 5 also saw the donation of two new replacement vehicles.

The service commenced in 2008 when resident Barb Galvin donated $50,000 to buy a vehicle to take transportchallenged cancer outpatients to oncology appointments within the region.

Galvin made the donation in memory of her mother, Shirley Galvin, who died of cancer in 2006.

Now with a fleet of four vehicles, The Shirley Shuttle meets the high demand for transport within a large region, with patronage increasing markedly following the opening of the Cancer Care Centre at Gosford Hospital in 2012. The service is administered by Community Transport Central Coast via Coast Connect.

Operated by around 30 volunteer drivers, there is an “invited” fee of $10 per round trip per client – if they can afford it.

Central Coast Local Health District covers fuel costs, however, each vehicle requires replacement at around 100,000km (around every 2.5 years).

Cancercare Australia combined with the Rotary Club of East Gosford (which was represented by Sue Evans on the day) covered replacement and running costs of one vehicle, while Freemasons on the Central Coast (represented by Jim Nolan) covered the replacement cost of the second vehicle.

Barb Galvin, who started it all, addresses the crowd Galvin said community fundraising met other replacement and running costs as they occurred.

“This service is truly one of a kind in Australia and can only continue due to the generosity of the Central Coast community,” Galvin said.

“I continue to be proud of my

contribution in my mother Shirley’s name.”

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch praised all those involved for their contribution to the service, particularly the volunteers who gave up their time to travel up to 400km per day at times to cheerfully serve their clients.

From late November 2018 to March 2023 the four Shirley Shuttles provided 51,125 trips to 3,649 individual clients over 1,023,716km.

More than 35,000 driver hours were volunteered, some of which were delivered during COVID lockdown periods in 2020 and 2021.

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Aboriginal Community Consultation and Registration of Interest

Niche Environment and Heritage (Niche) has been engaged by Royal HaskoningDHV on behalf of Central Coast Council, to assist in the preparation of an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment (ACHA) including Aboriginal community consultation and, an Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit (AHIP) for the proposed Soldiers Beach Access Replacement Program located in Lot 7338/DP1157063 and Lot 101/DP1181697 at Norah Head, New South Wales (NSW). The proposed works will include the replacement of the existing Soldiers Beach SLSC (Surf Life Saving Club) Vehicle Access Ramp and the Northern Carpark Stair. This work may require an application for an Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit (AHIP) under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 (NSW) The Proponent, Royal HaskoningDHV, can be contacted via:

c/- Patrick Lawless Senior Coastal Engineer Royal HaskoningDHV pat.lawless@rhdhv.com

/YeehaCreations

0411 382 533 yeehacreations.myportfolio.com

In accordance with Section 4.1.3 of the Office of Environment and Heritage Aboriginal cultural heritage consultation requirements for proponents 2010, Royal HaskoningDHV is seeking to consult with any Aboriginal persons or groups who may hold cultural knowledge of, or who have the right or interest in Aboriginal cultural heritage of the Subject Area. The purpose of the consultation will be to assist the Proponent in the preparation of:

• An Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment.

• Determining the significance of any Aboriginal objects and/or places within the Subject Area.

• Appropriate management recommendations for any Aboriginal objects and/or places that might be identified during the process.

• A subsequent AHIP to manage any Aboriginal objects identified during the Aboriginal cultural heritage assessment and to assist Heritage NSW in their consideration and determination of the application. Please be advised that, as per Section 4.1.6 of the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Consultation Requirements for Proponents (OEH, 2010) the names of Aboriginal persons and groups who register an interest will be forwarded to Heritage NSW and the Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council unless the person or group specifies that they do not want their details released. All registrations for the project should be sent in writing to:

Riley Finnerty

Heritage Consultant

Niche Environment and Heritage Suite 2, level 3, 93 George Street, Parramatta NSW 2150

Telephone: 0499 774 095 | Email: rfinnerty@niche-eh.com

Registrations must be received by 5 pm on Thursday 25 May 2023.

Source: The Shirley Shuttle

Barb Galvin with Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch and volunteers on the day

Council won’t sell Woy Woy carpark to private developer

Central Coast Council has formally abandoned any plans to sell the Woy Woy commuter carpark to new owner of Deepwater Plaza, Raptis Investments, following a huge community outcry led be Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch.

Administrator Rik Hart had resolved in February for Council to enter negotiations to sell the carpark to Raptis (which it leases to Transport for NSW (TfNSW) for $1 a year until 2065) but when the community rallied to protest, negotiations were put on hold in early March until after the March 25 State election.

At the April 26 meeting, Hart resolved not to proceed with

any sale to a private party and opted instead to continue to negotiate with Transport for NSW to take over the carpark.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch welcomed the decision, noting the need for adequate consultation and consideration of local interests in any prospective sale.

“We welcome the fact the commuter carpark has been taken off the market,” she said.

“Over one thousand signatures on my community petition made it abundantly clear the community does not want to privatise the carpark.

“It is also clear that the community must be consulted on matters that would significantly impact the

accessibility and practicality of living in the area.

“Council also acknowledged TfNSW’s interest in purchasing the carpark was insufficiently

canvassed.” She has asked Council to provide the necessary information to TfNSW so this avenue may be adequately

investigated.

“Council needs to ensure (it) will lock in a long-term contract,” she said.

Council’s meeting agenda acknowledged Woy Woy as “one of the premier destinations for shopping and commerce on the Central Coast and as an important transport hub for both commuters and visitors”. Hart said while there might have been “some financial and strategic advantages” in selling the carpark, it had become clear there was “a considerable level of concern in the local community about what is seen as inadequate consultation with both residents and business operators as to the potential benefits of such an arrangement”.

Concern remains that Council has decided to continue to negotiate the sale of its option to buy 220 spots in the plaza carpark in December, 2032, for a peppercorn fee of $1.

“The community expresses disappointment that the Council is privatising the shopper carpark and has made it very clear they do not want any part of our community carpark privatised,” Tesch said.

While Council has made assurances that any option sale would ensure that the use of the carpark would remain free of charge until December 2032, there are concerns that shoppers might be charged to park after that time.

Terry Collins

Spencer bounces back to be named a finalist in tourism awards

After experiencing a series of devastating floods in recent years, the Lower Hawkesbury township of Spencer has bounced back to be named as a finalist in the Tiny Town category in the NSW Top Tourism Town Awards 2023.

Known for its breathtaking scenery and cultural landmarks, as well as locally-sourced cuisine and exhilarating activities, Spencer offers an outstanding tourism experiences for visitors while delivering social and economic benefits for the community.

River Cares President Robyn Downham said Spencer was a “jewel of the Hawkesbury River with its pristine waterways and scenic beauty”.

“In Spencer we have The Anchor, the stunning new cafe which has replaced the old general store, a fantastic Thai restaurant, a caravan park, a museum called the Hawkesbury Duck and our pub is under a tree.

“The tree – or as the locals fondly regard it, the Tree of Knowledge – is the identity of

Spencer, the Hub of the Universe, the social infrastructure for this area and for all the other river communities in the Lower Hawkesbury River District.”

Downham said since last year’s weather events, The Anchor and Spencer Thai Restaurant have been a drawcard for many tourists visiting not only from the Central Coast, but from Greater Sydney, the Hunter, Newcastle and other areas.

“People come to Spencer to

enjoy delicious food and friendly hospitality while taking in the breathtaking views and soaking up the relaxed, peaceful and unique village atmosphere that Spencer has to offer.”

Central Coast Council Director Community and Culture, Melanie Smith, said it was fantastic to once again see the Central Coast shining as a outstanding tourism destination.

“The NSW Top Tourism Town Awards celebrate NSW’s

diverse and outstanding regional destinations,” she said.

“The awards provide communities, business chambers, visitor centres and local governments the opportunity to showcase how their town encourages tourism development, increases visitation and drives the visitor economy for our state.

“Over the 2021/22 period the Central Coast tourism industry and Council’s Tourism Team have been recognised as

winners in eight industry awards in Australia and on the global stage.

“The Central Coast has also achieved ECO Destination certification, and Spencer showcases what this means with ecotourism activities like walking, hiking, boating, fishing and kayaking.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said it was no surprise that Spencer had been nominated as a finalist.

“Much of the Central Coast has faced a number of major

Vietnam vets reeling from thefts

The Central Coast branch of the Vietnam Veterans, Peacekeepers and Peacemakers Association is reeling following two acts of vandalism just prior to Anzac Day.

A large banner displayed on the railway fence at the intersection of Ocean Beach Rd and Railway Pde, Woy Woy, advertising the group’s dawn service was stolen, followed the same week by the theft of a brass plaque attached to the barbecue situated on the Ettalong foreshore.

challenges over the last couple of years including the impact of COVID which resulted in a downturn in tourism, as well as extreme weather which resulted in flooding and damage to many areas,” he said.

“However, it was the resilience and hard work of communities such as Spencer, in collaboration with Council’s Tourism team, that helped put the Coast back on top of tourism destinations in NSW. “Spencer village features a small list of local operators who are committed to offering a range of unique experiences, including guided cultural tours. “Tourism really is part of the fabric of the community in Spencer; it is a hidden jewel of the Coast.”

ou can vote for Spencer to be the winner in the Tiny Town category at https://www. businessnsw.com/events/toptourism-town-awards-2023nsw.

Voting closes 5pm on Friday, May 12.

Terry Collins

waterfront is at risk due to this irreverent action, which will affect all residents.”

Honorary Secretary Eric Daniel said it was “very disappointing” to think that the person or persons responsible do not have any respect for someone who has given their life and/or service to guarantee their freedom.

Police have been advised and vigilance is ongoing at the site.

Central Coast

“Enhancement of the

Vietnam Veterans, Peacekeepers and Peacemakers Association

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch headed an on-site protest in early March

Spencer has been named a finalist in the NSW Top Tourism Town Awards

The sign on Spencer’s “Tree of Knowledge”

“For most people –unfortunately, not all –respecting the service of our veterans is revered,” a

spokesperson said. The spokesperson said the memorial precinct on the

Ettalong waterfront is a standout feature.

“This facility that has existed

for over 20 years was built and paid for by veterans,” he said.

Source:

branch,

The stolen banner This plaque was removed from a barbecue at Ettalong Beach

Major boost for three Coast organisations

Three Central Coast organisations are among seven regional community groups and charities to share in almost $650,000 from Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation.

The funds will be used to support the delivery of projects and initiatives aimed at improving the health and social wellbeing of vulnerable and disadvantaged people in regional NSW.

RizeUp, operating on the Coast, and in the Hunter and Mid North, will receive $55,000 for its “driving to safety” program.

By providing a vehicle, this initiative will enable RizeUp to collect donations that will furnish homes for survivors of domestic and family violence. Also receiving $55,000 is Solve-TAD, operating on the Central Coast and in the Hunter to help children with disabilities “cycle to freedom”.

The program will gift a custom-built Freedom Wheels bike to 25 children with physical

and cognitive disabilities who are unable to personally afford or access NDIS funding to purchase such a bike, introducing them to the social benefits of cycling.

And on the receiving end of $50,000 will be SMART Central Coast and Hunter, which will train 20 Lifeline counsellors across two hubs to deliver SMART (Self-Management and

Recovery Training) Recovery meetings, which provide clients with evidence-based addiction and mental health support.

Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation Chair, Jennifer Leslie, said each of the seven projects would make an important difference in the communities they served.

“We have a wonderful array of projects in this funding

round, showing both the broad need in our regional communities, and the impressive drive, talent and determination our charity partners and colleagues show every day,” she said.

“This round includes programs that aim to reunite families, empower indigenous women and give children with a disability the chance to

experience the fun and freedom of cycling.

“It shows just how much need exists in our communities and how far the need reaches.”

Engagement and Marketing Manager at Solve-TAD, Meadhbh Roche said the grant would help support children to access a fun means of physiotherapy or physical activity, provide opportunities for community engagement and social inclusion and improve emotional wellbeing.

“Cycling to Freedom for Children with Disabilities supports young people living with a disability to ride a bike or trike, sometimes for the very first time,” she said.

“This project will support about 25 young people to have an assessment with an occupational therapist and fully fund bikes and trikes for those who cannot access the NDIS.”

Leslie said that as the Charitable Foundation was celebrating its 20th anniversary, it was a time to reflect on past success, present work, and

future endeavours.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to pause and appreciate two decades of hard work, during which time our Foundation has distributed more than $26M, been part of over 550 projects, built hundreds of exceptional relationships with invaluable partners, and changed countless lives,” she said.

“Staying in the present, these seven projects remind us of the value and importance our partners have in their communities, and the ways in which their hard work makes a tangible difference every day.

“When looking ahead, we dream big – and at 20 years young, we’re just getting started!”

Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation holds two grant-giving ceremonies each year, with the second for 2023 set to be held in December.

Source: Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation

Richardsons still making memories on 65th anniversary

Lovise and Max Richardson of Adelene Village in Wyoming celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on April 12.

The couple, who married in 1958 at St James Church in Sydney, have been through a lot together over the years and their wedding anniversary was a time for celebration and reflection.

“We’ve seen a lot of changes in the world over the past 65 years, including the rise of new technologies such as the computer, the internet and mobile phones, and witnessed the evolution of society,” Lovise said.

The couple bought their first computer in Hong Kong in 1982 and since then they’ve tried to keep abreast of ever-evolving technology.

“When we got married, the postman delivered letters in the morning and the afternoon, there were no indicators in cars

and when an adult walked into a classroom, pupils were

required to stand out of respect,” Lovise said.

The Richardsons are a couple who love to travel, their overseas adventures beginning with their first trip to America in 1977.

“We were so captivated by the experience that we continued to travel extensively for the next 42 years,” Max said.

“We love to travel because it’s a great way to learn about different cultures and meet new people and we’ve made so many wonderful memories on our travels we can’t wait to make more in the future,” Lovise said.

They are also active in their community with Max being a member of Rotary International for 48 years and Lovise a member of International Inner

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Wheel for 39 years.

Both organisations are dedicated to serving others and Lovise and Max have made a significant impact on their communities through their work.

“We’re grateful for the opportunity to give back to our community,” Max said.

“We believe that everyone has something to offer and we’re glad that we can use our skills and talents to make a difference.”

The Richardsons have a son, a daughter, a daughter-in-law and two grandsons.

Their family and people who know them say they are an inspiration and have made a significant impact on the lives of others.

Sue Murray

Amelia Cox of

Family Lawyers will present a FREE seminar which will help you to understand your rights, guide you through your separation in an easy to understand way and present options available to you so that you are not overwhelmed by the process.

Amelia’s presentation will cover property settlement, residence of children, defacto relationships, mediation and early settlement options so that you can consider your situation and plan where to from here, especially if you find yourself in the Family Court system.

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 steps you need to take next.

Denise Pastor and Meadhbh Roche of Solve-TAD

Lovise and Max Richardson on their wedding day in 1958

Brazel Moore

Budget provides some relief for Coast families

Continued from page 1

A rise in Commonwealth rental assistance rates will see almost 14,000 households receive up to $31.36 extra each fortnight (9,460 in Dobell and 4,320 in Robertson) and NDIS budget initiatives are also expected to benefit thousands in the region.

Member for Dobell Emma McBride said the budget delivers on the Government’s promise to provide some relief for cash-strapped families while building a more secure economy into the future.

“The Budget includes a $14.6B cost of living package over four years that will ease pressure on Australians while putting downward pressure on inflation,” McBride said.

“We’re supporting people on the Central Coast doing it tough right now with historic investments in Medicare that will see more people able to access bulk billing GPs.

“We are tripling bulk billing incentives, which will see immediate benefits to more than 11 million Australians.

“New funding for housing will see more people able to afford rent or buy their own home.

“With wage raises for aged care workers we will return

dignity to work for those who care for our oldest Australians.

“This is a Budget that will support the Central Coast without driving up inflation.”

McBride said Labor’s new Energy Price Relief Plan would provide relief for more than five million households.

“I know that this will make a

real difference in household budgets – helping families in our community,” she said.

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid said the budget would help Coasties doing it tough and set the region up for success.

“This budget has been carefully calibrated and is

Macs Friends helping neighbours

As Volunteer Week (May 15-21) approaches, the members of Macs Friends

Helping Neighbours continues its work supporting locals in the community who need emergency help in the short term.

Twenty residents volunteer to offer the sort of help that falls between the cracks when Council-funded services and family are unable to help.

Small acts of kindness change quality of life,” group publicity officer Jill Danks said.

“Who else would dog-sit in shifts over seven days to care for a dachshund recovering from back surgery while his mum went to work?

“Our volunteers did, making sure Humphry got outside when he needed to go and keeping him calm and comforted.

“Changing light bulbs for older people who can’t safely climb a ladder, or changing batteries in smoke alarms are some of the small jobs we do that don’t take work away from our local tradies yet keep our older locals safe.

“Everyone loves a cake stall, so our volunteers baked to raise funds for a local family whose little boy is going

through two years of cancer treatment at Westmead Children’s Hospital.”

Danks said there was a lot of informal generous community support in Macs, as in most small communities.

“The reason we organised into a not-for-profit group was to make sure our volunteers and the people we help are safe and covered by volunteer insurance when they drive someone to an appointment, deliver the shopping into a kitchen or trim a tree that’s blocking access to someone’s home,” she said.

Other examples of the group’s

volunteer support include: helping older locals navigate the features on iPads and iPhones, such as saving precious photos or creating a contact list; collecting prescriptions from the chemist when people are unwell; and helping with forms and online shopping for locals with eyesight problems.

For more information about how to get help or to become a volunteer in Macmasters Beach contact Jill Danks 0401 856 420.

targeted towards addressing the rising cost of living, without significantly contributing to inflation,” he said.

“The guiding principles of our economic policy have been relief, repair and restraint.

“Australians will be able to see this filter through to their household budgets as we

address the cost of living.

“The Federal Government is mindful of Australians on the Central Coast struggling with the cost of living.

“While there is more work to be done, I am confident measures announced in this budget will help ease the pressure.”

Reid said measures like cheaper childcare, cheaper medicines and fee-free TAFE would continue to benefit the region.

Also announced in the budget is funding to ban the sale of vapes, which will only be sold in pharmacies and with a prescription from a GP.

“This is a sensible decision by the Albanese Government to protect Australians, especially younger ones,” Reid said.

“Vaping is a significant issue in high schools and the Federal Government is acting.”

Other budget initiatives set to ease the burden for Coasties include: $3.5B in energy subsidies for eligible households and small businesses; a 15 per cent pay increase for aged care workers; 60 days’ worth of medicine for the price of a single prescription for chronic sufferers; extra JobSeeker support for over 55s (down from 60); an expansion of the first home guarantee scheme allowing family or friend groups to buy a home with 5 per cent deposit; and low-cost loans for improvements to make homes easier and cheaper to keep warm and cool.

Terry Collins

Pool

Central Coast Federal MPs Gordon Reid (Robertson) and Emma McBride (Dobell) say the budget provides relief while being fiscally responsible

Source: Macs Friends Helping Neighbours

Jill Danks serves a customer at a fundraising cake stall

Member for Dobell Emma McBride has given an impassioned address in Federal Parliament on suicide prevention.

McBride, who is Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention and for Rural and Regional, Health, acknowledged the individual and collective contributions of people with a lived and living experience of suicide.

She also commended the families, carers and supporters of people living with suicidal ideation for their input and said the Government was committed to putting the experience of those involved at the centre of decision making.

“We also must recognise that despite increasing expenditure on mental health services, Australia has not seen a significant decrease in the number of lives lost to suicide in over two decades,” she said.

“We need to expand our thinking, to make sure our suicide prevention efforts address the underlying drivers of distress.

“This is because suicide is complex.

“It may result from serious mental illness but more often it can be a response to distress such as family breakdown, sexual abuse, unemployment,

McBride speaks out on suicide prevention

financial insecurity or losses, homelessness, domestic and family violence, social isolation, and drug or alcohol dependency.”

McBride said a broad and compassionate approach to suicide prevention required sustained, collaborative effort from across portfolios and from all governments and sectors.

She said Government plans to tackle suicide prevention included the Our Secure Jobs, Better Pay Bill to strengthen workplaces and restore rights to workers and the $10B Housing Australia Future Fund which would deliver 30,000 new social and affordable homes in the first five years.

She said other moves to address the drivers of distress included cheaper child care, cheaper medicines, 180,000 fee-free TAFE places, wage raises for aged care workers, improvements to Paid Parental Leave and paid Domestic Violence Leave and advancing the Voice to Parliament.

“What we are doing is strengthening communities,” she said.

“It is sensible policy that addresses the drivers of distress, but it is an ambitious task, and we cannot do it alone.”

She said there was a growing,

genuine desire for collaboration and co-operation, affirmed by the endorsements of governments last year of the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement.

“(This) binds all governments to collaborate on systemic, whole-of-government reform to deliver a comprehensive, coordinated, consumer focused and compassionate mental health and suicide prevention system to benefit all Australians,” she said.

She said the Federal Government was partnering with states and territories to establish the foundations for a comprehensive suicide

prevention service system.

This would include universal aftercare, postvention and Distress Brief Support trials, she said.

“Also, it prioritises work across education, workplaces, homelessness, financial counselling, family, domestic and sexual violence, and justice.”

McBride said First Nations people, especially youth, were a top priority, as was improved response to natural disasters.

“In March I was pleased to see the launch a new free online wellbeing and suicide prevention tool for farmers,

called Taking Stock,” she said.

“This is another example of co-design – designed with three farming communities in South Australia, Victoria and NSW.

“It’s also the final stage of a three-year research project led by the University of South Australia – another demonstration of the great value of research in this area.”

She said another group of focus was the LGBTIQA+, consultations to inform Australia’s first 10-Year National Action Plan for the Health and Wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ people underway.

Salvos launch Red Shield Appeal on Coast

The Salvation Army is urging the Central Coast community to get involved in this year’s Red Shield Appeal, with funds raised locally staying local to support community services and programs in the area.

Launched at Mingara Recreation Club on May 4, the Coast appeal aims to raise $50,000 to support community members doing it tough.

More than 200 business leaders were at the launch, with MasterChef 2009 Winner Julie Goodwin the special guest speaker and community member Kylie Perry sharing the story of her personal journey and how the Salvos have helped her throughout her life.

Community members and volunteers can get involved by helping at community collection points, door knocking, or

organising online fundraising or collections at workplaces, schools or sporting events.

“If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, now is the time,” Salvation Army Area Officer, Central Coast & Hunter, Major

Mark Everitt, said.

“ Grab your friends, your workmates, or make it a family outing or a group activity for your club – just get involved.

“The community needs your support more than ever.”

Everitt said while all Australians were feeling the pinch of cost of living pressures, it was more extreme for some.

“The Salvos are seeing more and more people living below the breadline – skipping meals,

“This will provide a framework for action to address both physical and mental health needs and lead to better health outcomes,” she said.

She outlined other key plans to address the issue including $7.8M for new interpreting services, through Primary Health Networks and $114M for the National Suicide Prevention Leadership and Support Program over three years.

“Suicide Prevention Australia deserves a special mention for its Community Tracker, which monitors community distress and its causes,” she said.

“This is helping me, the Government and the sector understand current pressures and where support may be most needed.

“The National Suicide and Self-Harm Monitoring System is also up and running.

“It was established by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, with the National Suicide Prevention Office, and wide ranging input.”

McBride said work was well underway on the National Suicide Prevention Strategy, led by the National Suicide Prevention Office.

Source: Parliamentary transcript

going without prescribed medications, struggling to keep the lights on,” he said.

“We don’t want anybody on the Central Coast to struggle alone – times are tough, but we can get through it together, with your support.”

The Red Shield Appeal weekend is set for May 20 and 21, but there are a number of volunteer opportunities available throughout May.

Get in touch with your local Salvos by visiting salvationarmy. org.au.

“The Central Coast is known for being a generous and supportive region – and we know this year will be no different,” Everitt said.

“The Central Coast will do their bit to help their neighbours and their community.”

Now in its 59th year, the annual Red Shield Appeal funds vital community programs,

including financial assistance, homelessness, family and domestic violence and drug and alcohol services.

Each year, through The Salvation Army’s nationwide network of services, the Salvos provide: assistance to one person every 17 seconds; more than 1.86 million sessions of care to people in need; more than a million bed nights to those in need of accommodation; and more than 1.52 million meals.

To donate or volunteer for The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal, or if you need support from The Salvos, visit salvationarmy.org.au or call 13 SALVOS.

You can also donate at any Salvos Store.

Source: Salvation Army

Major Mark Everitt, Kylie Perry and compere Lawrie McKinna

Member for Dobell Emma McBride gives an update on suicide prevention measures in Federal Parliament

Construction Commenced

The landmark Archibald by ALAND project in Gosford is commencing construction. Archibald will become Gosford’s most vibrant and dynamic lifestyle destination, combining apartment living with an upscale hotel and an exciting dining precinct.

Archibald features upscale amenities, boasting a rooftop Skybar and Lounge with uninterrupted water views, pool with swim-up bar, a luxurious new hotel, and a dining precinct on the ground floor.

– 1, 2, 3 & 4 bedroom apartments & signature penthouses

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The Special Envoy for the Arts, Susan Templeman, joined Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid to meet with stakeholders from the arts and live music industries on the Central Coast on May 8. The pair visited NAISDA Dance College, Drifters Wharf and the Naughty Noodle Fun Haus, giving stakeholders a chance to discuss issues affecting the industries and learn what support is available.

NAISDA CEO Kim Walker said the visit was a great opportunity to introduce NAISDA staff and students and showcase the rigorous training and skills development needed to

Envoy’s visit a boost for arts sector

become leading First Nations artists, dancers and choreographers.

“We were also able to update the Special Envoy on our plans to expand tertiary arts training and career pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people which will help deliver on the Government’s new landmark Cultural Policy,” he said.

“We look forward to working in partnership towards the continued growth and representation of our First Nations art sector and artists.”

Naughty Noodle Creative Director Glitta Supernova said the arts sector provided $111B to the economy each year.

“It continually shapes our thinking and brings us together collectively – as COVID highlighted it’s also one of the fundamental elements that keep us all sane,” she said.

“From the CarriageWorks to the ABC and the National Gallery of Australia, over the past 10 years Australian arts has faced the worst crisis since before the Australia Council was founded in 1967 and that has impacted the majority of 408,000 people working in the arts and creative sector.

“Chatting with Susan Templeman and Gordon Reid was a significant opportunity to openly discuss the upcoming Revive 5-year plan to renew

and revive Australia’s arts, entertainment, and cultural sector.

“I believe this National Cultural Policy will deliver new momentum enabling Australia’s creative workers, organisations and audiences to continue to thrive and grow, and possibly even re-position our arts, culture and heritage as central to Australia’s future.”

Templeman said it was wonderful to be on the ground supporting the arts and live music community.

“The Central Coast is home to some impressive arts organisations including the NAISDA Dance College, innovative community

organisations and great local businesses that are eager to support live music,” she said.

“It was great to meet with them to talk about their aspirations and challenges.

“The Government wants to see the arts ecology here flourish and our new National Cultural Policy, Revive, will help it do just that.

“In Gordon Reid, this region has a hardworking and committed advocate for the arts and cultural sector.

“He understands the benefits that the arts bring to the wellbeing of his community and the local economy.”

Reid said the visit highlighted

the Government’s commitment to the arts and live music scene in our region.

“The Special Envoy was able to listen directly to stakeholders from both industries and provide helpful information about what Federal Government assistance is available to them,” he said.

“Both Susan Templeman and I will raise the challenges being faced by our arts and live music industries with the Arts Minister, Tony Burke, in Canberra.

“I will always support our arts and live music community and be a strong voice in Canberra.”

Terry Collins

Government chips in $4.4M for roads and community projects

Almost $4.4M is coming the Central Coast’s way following the latest funding allocations announced in the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

Council has started putting together a list of potential projects but they can’t be confirmed until the criteria for eligible projects is released by the government.

The $4,370,781 allocated to Council will be available from July for projects to be completed by June 2025.

Of that amount $1,598,889 is to be used for road only projects.

Over the first three phases of

the program Council has received $19.2M to finance 65 projects, with 27 still to be completed by June 2024. These include: a carpark

upgrade at Charmhaven shops; Bateau Bay Library renovation; upgrades at Little Coast Kids in Toukley and Kanwal; a replacement shade sail at

Kincumber Library; and playspace renewals at Blue Haven, Gurdon Reserve Woy Woy Bay, Koolewong foreshore, Wycombe Park Terrigal,

Bluebell Park Berkeley Vale, Oakland Ave Tuggerawong foreshore, Osborne Park Toukley, Tonkiss St Tuggerah and Pioneer Park Killarney Vale. Other renewal programs are park furniture and fencing, sportsground lighting, cricket wickets, boat ramps, jetties and swimming enclosures.

Road projects still to be completed are Bay Rd Blue Bay, Debenham Rd South, West Gosford, Davistown Rd, Ilya Ave Erina and Tuggerawong Rd as well as the bus stop improvement program

Also, the Albanese Government is delivering on an election promise by providing an extra $250M – on top of the $500M already allocated in

Phase 4 for road projects in rural, regional and outer urban areas.

Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said the extra money and extended construction timeline would help councils plan for larger or more complex projects that made a bigger impact on their communities.

“We know many councils across the country are struggling to maintain and improve their local road networks, especially following repeated flooding and other natural disasters in recent times,” she said.

Sue Murray

Special Envoy Susan Templeman with Kim Walker and Member for Robertson Gordon Reid at NAISDA Member for Robertson Gordon Reid, Glitta Supernova, Juan Iocco and Special Envoy Susan Templeman at the Naughty Noodle Fun Haus

Bluebell Park at Berkeley Vale to be completed by June next year

Race is on to boost population at frog ‘hotels’ in forest

Olney State Forest in the Central Coast hinterland is now home to a series of frog ‘hotels’ designed to support threatened frog species, thanks to a partnership between Forestry Corporation of NSW and the University of Newcastle.

New strategically placed artificial ponds form a network of breeding habitat for iconic species such as the Littlejohn’s tree frog and the giant burrowing frog and help increase their population and persistence in the environment.

Forestry Corporation Senior Ecologist Chris Slade said the population response would be monitored over coming years.

“Projects like this take effort from a lot of people from idea to implementation, and this

On its 10th anniversary The Nappy Collective charity is calling on Central Coast residents to donate new or leftover disposable nappies during its annual Mothers Day Collection Drive.

The Coast area alone needs 10,300 donated nappies to meet the immediate needs of families in crisis and organisers are hoping the Mothers Day Drive will collect 350,000 through 500 collection points across Australia to cater for nationwide needs.

Donations needed are newly purchased disposable nappies or leftover opened packets of disposable nappies that are no longer needed such as when a child outgrows their nappy size

result is a credit to the community, the University of Newcastle, our staff and many others involved,” he said.

Nappy

and nappy pants.

Lead researcher, Dr Alex Callen from the University of Newcastle, said the habitats also served to provide climatic

refuge for many other forest fauna in the face of shifting climates.

“The race is on to increase

the population size of two threatened frog species which were affected by the 2019 Black Summer fires to futureproof them from the incoming El Nino climate shift, which can bring extended periods of hot, dry weather,” he said.

Visitors to Olney State Forest can experience the ponds, hear frog calls and even identify individual species along the new Littlejohn’s walking trail.

Along the trail, people can also see remnants of historical forestry days and an array of beautiful flora and fauna.

The project was supported through the revegetation efforts of volunteers from the Awaba Mountain Bike Club, the Friends of Strickland group and NSW & ACT 4WD association and follows extensive consultation with University of

collection to help families in crisis

Collection points which operate year-round on the Central Coast are: Reliance Medical Practice, 69 Central Coast Hwy, West Gosford; Westfield Tuggerah on Wyong Rd; and Reliance Medical Practice in Amy Cl, Wyong.

The Nappy Collective is also hoping more volunteers will come on board to help the charity.

It is Australia’s only not-forprofit organisation solely focussed on collecting and redistributing nappies to families in crisis.

CEO Sarah Witty said The Nappy Collective has set an ambitious goal of providing 1.5 million nappies to children and

families in need in 2023, with demand reaching 350,000 for the Mother’s Day Collection Drive.

“Even so, the need for nappy donations is so high that the 1.5 million target will only deliver five per cent of what’s required,” she said.

“There’s a multitude of reasons why a family might face nappy stress, from homelessness to natural disasters or fleeing domestic violence.

“The cost of living crisis has also meant more and more people are struggling to afford the nappies they need for their children.

“That donated bag of nappies can mean an extra $30 in their

budget to help cover that rent increase, a few more meals that week or some petrol in the car.

“So, as we approach Mothers Day, we’re urging everybody to think about how they can support local mothers, families and children and give the gift of nappies to those in need.

“On our 10-year anniversary, our mission at the Nappy Collective remains the same –that every child in Australia deserves a clean, healthy and happy start to life.”

For those who don’t have nappies on hand, donations can be made on the donations page of The Nappy Collective website.

Concert raises $10,000 for Lifeline

The Song for Life benefit concert held on May 7 at Drifters Pearl Beach has raised almost $10,000 for Lifeline Central Coast.

A hundred people gathered for an evening of beautiful music, food, and wine.

The evening began with a warm welcome from event organisers, who acknowledged the traditional owners of the land, the Guringai people, and thanked all attendees for their support.

Talented First Nations performers Aodhan and Loren Ryan then took to the stage to share their music and stories with the audience.

Throughout the night, guests enjoyed wine from Upstairs Wines Ettalong and delicious food, including supper boxes available for purchase.

The Silent Auction also proved

to be a popular attraction, with attendees bidding on a range of wonderful prizes.

“We are thrilled with the success of the A Song for Life Benefit Concert,” event

organisers said.

“Thanks to the generosity of everyone who attended, we were able to raise nearly $10,000 for Lifeline Central Coast.

“We are so grateful for the support of the community and look forward to continuing to work together to support this important cause.”

The funds raised from the

Newcastle, the Central Coast Mountain Bike Club and other forest users.

“The new frog habitat and walking trails are also a reminder many threatened species need our support to recover and thrive,” Forestry Corporation’s Community Partnerships Leader, Jess Brine, said.

“Visitors play an important role in the environmental sustainability of our forests through responsible behaviour such as staying on formed trails, taking only photographs and leaving only footprints behind.

“The way we use the forest is vital to the longevity of these species.”

Source: Forestry Corporation

event will go towards supporting Lifeline Central Coast’s vital crisis support services, which provide support and assistance to people in need across the region.

For more information about Lifeline Central Coast and how you can support their work, visit their website at www. lifeline.org.au.

Raymond Scott of Meladharma Counselling was one of the organisers.

Operating out of Pearl Beach, Meladharma helps clients on a journey of growth and selfdiscovery, offering transformative life practices.

Lifeline Central Coast provides compassionate support for people in crisis.

Call 13 11 14 to talk to a trained Crisis Supporter over the phone, any time of the day or night 24/7.

Lifeline Text 0477 13 11 14 and online chat are also available 24/7.

Source: Meladharma Counselling

Performer Aodhan Loren Ryan

Sue Murray Help families in need by donating new nappies

New forest walking trail to learn about frogs

Runner Jai is a Top Bloke

Jai Menser of Wamberal is set to take on two huge running challenges this year to raise funds and awareness for the Top Blokes charity.

As well as holding down a job at Davistown RSL, the 21-yearold coaches the Reserve Grade Squad and the Women’s 18s for Terrigal United Football Club, coaches football at Central Coast Grammar School, has a small role with the U16s Boys at Central Coast Mariners Academy and also runs a personal football coaching business.

In what spare time he has, he likes to run.

“I started running back in May of 2021 (and decided I wanted) something huge to challenge myself,” he said.

“I decided that challenge was

a 100km race through the Blue Mountains which I completed last October.

“This has now turned into my passion, my meditation and a huge opportunity to be able to help myself and serve others in the best of ways.”

Over the past two years,

Menser has also completed: 21 half marathons in 21 days (21 in 21); six marathons; and 135 laps up and down Terrigal Skillion.

He has now decided to turn his efforts to raising funds and awareness for the Top Blokes Foundation, a mental health

charity which offers help to young men aged from 10-24.

“These Top Blokes educate young men to guide them in the best possible way to be their best selves and lead (them) into a healthy and safe life,” he said.

“Boys won’t just be boys; boys will be what we teach

them to be.

“I want to help create much more effective education for numerous areas of life skills for young boys and this aligns perfectly with what Top Blokes stands for and specialises in.”

Menser will compete in the 50 in 50 from July 15 to September 2.

This challenge sees participants complete 50 X 42.2km marathons in a 50-day period.

Menser plans to do one marathon every day, culminating in a 100km run around a loop at Terrigal on Saturday, September 2, where he hopes to be joined by as many people as possible.

The extra kilometres added onto his final run will take his total number of kilometres run to just over 2,168km.

Charity event has had its last ride

After 20 years of supporting Lifeline Central Coast and Coast Shelter, Century Challenge Cycle Rides (CCCR) is set to wind up.

Run by the Rotary Club of Gosford, the ride was cancelled in 2022 and 2023 due to dangerous road conditions caused by severe weather

events, but CCCR was able to continue fundraising through the support of sponsors and riders who donated their sponsorships and registrations fees.

The CCCR committee recently handed cheques for $12,560 to both Lifeline Central Coast and Coast Shelter at a dinner at

Breakers Wamberal. Sponsors who contributed were Mounties, Bendigo Bank , Central Coast Council, Gosford RSL, Gosford Golf Club, Leasecorp, Borg, Crossmuller, Pluim, North Construction, Kwik Kopy, Bikeworx, Edge Cycles, Jenkins Spares, Coastal Spares, Drifters Wharf, The

Runners Shop and Central Coast Leagues Club

The charity ride originated with a ride up Kariong Hill to Hawksbury River and return organised by the Central Coast Cycling Club 20 years ago.

The Erina Rotary Club then ran the event for a number of years before it was taken over

by the Rotary Club of Gosford North in 2020. Recent outings have included a 100km ,50km and 18km family rides.

However, it has been decided to discontinue the ride after taking advice from Tuggerah Lakes Police and Central Coast Council about unsafe road

He will then do a 24-hour run up and down Terrigal Skillion on October 28-29, once again completing 135 laps.

Menser is asking Coasties to support his fundraising efforts by donating and spreading the word.

Donations can be made at www.fundraise.topblokes.org. au/donate and searching for Jai Menser or scan the QR code.

conditions and an uncertain road repair program.

The Rotary Club of Gosford North is now actively exploring other opportunities to replace the significant charity event with another fund raising project to continue supporting the Central Coast community.

Terry Collins

Vicarious Trauma and Self-Care Workshop

Wednesday 7th June – Commencing at 1.00pm

This workshop will provide an overview about what is vicarious trauma, burnout and compassion fatigue, and assist you to recognise your early warning signs and risk factors. It will also equip you with practical strategies to build your emotional resilience and coping skills when working in high stress environments.

This session is suitable for professionals working in roles and organisations that are exposed to grief, loss, and trauma through their client work.

Developing Emotional Literacy in Children

Wednesday 16th August – Commencing at 5.00pm

Learn practical tools and strategies to support children in developing the emotional literacy and self-regulation skills necessary to understand and manage their big emotions. This session is suitable for adults who regularly work with children who have experienced grief and loss, such as parents, carers, educators and clinicians. This presentation will also include an overview of the programs run by Feel The Magic for bereaved children, and information on how to apply for or refer to their programs.

Source: Jai Menser

Jai Menser on one of his previous runs

Neighbour praised for house fire rescue

A neighbour who rescued an elderly woman and a pet dog from a burning house at Lake Haven has been recognised by Fire and Rescue NSW for bravery.

On Wednesday, August 3, 2020, an elderly couple’s life was shattered when an electrical fault set fire to the loungeroom and quickly spread, engulfing their Glading Cl home. The residence was completely destroyed and the couple lost all their possessions despite the efforts of the neighbours and then about 30 firefighters trying to extinguish the flames.

Daniel Beck, the neighbour who first came to the rescue, was the only citizen among the 120 firefighters who were formally recognised by Fire and Rescue (FRNSW) on St Florian’s Day, May 4.

St Florian’s Day is named after the Patron Saint of firefighters and is traditionally the day FRNSW formally recognises those who’ve played a special role in protecting our communities.

“I’d just driven into the street and noticed a bit of smoke coming from the house and

when I went over Keith (the owner) was running down the side of the house,” Beck said.

“He was all singed and I think he was in a bit of shock because he didn’t say anything to me; so I ran over to other neighbours to help get some hoses set up.

“Then I heard Keith’s wife screaming out – she was still

inside – so I just kicked over the rose bushes in front of the window, smashed the window and went in and grabbed her out of the room.”

“I’m just glad I was at the right place at the right time.”

After the fire Beck and some of his mates helped clear out the burnt debris and clean up

the site and now Keith and his wife Gina are living in a caravan out the front while they rebuild.

Beck said he appreciated the St Florian’s Day Award and was very excited to go the awards, especially because he was the only public citizen among the 120 firefighters receiving recognition.

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said the firefighters receiving awards had each put others’ lives before their own.

“The bravery, hard work and professionalism of our firefighters is extraordinary and whilst they don’t do it for the praise, they certainly deserve it and it’s great to see them receive that recognition on this special day,” Dib said.

FRNSW Commissioner Paul Baxter congratulated all who have were recognised.

“When you hear about the incidents for which our people are being recognised, you get an appreciation for the difficult and traumatic situations they may have to confront on any given day,” Commissioner Baxter said.

Health warning about danger of potent heroin mix

Increased hospitalisations and intensive care unit admissions following use of heroin on the Central Coast has prompted NSW Health to issue a danger warning about a lifethreatening mix of the illicit drug.

Testing of the heroin found it contained a potent opioid

called nitazene and Brisbane Water Police say the analysis of seized drugs confirms that nitazene is still around.

NSW Health says that use of this heroin mix can be lifethreatening.

“The combination of heroin with other strong opioids is more likely to cause overdose,”

NSW Health warns.

“Nitazenes can be as strong or stronger than fentanyl and cause slow breathing.

“You are at increased risk of overdose if you mix different drugs – alcohol, benzos and opioids are very dangerous to combine.

“Overdose symptoms include slow breathing/snoring, drowsiness, loss of

consciousness and skin turning blue or grey.”

NSW Health says to use naloxone if you have it as it can temporarily reverse an overdose from heroin and nitazenes – but do not delay calling Triple Zero.

People at risk of experiencing an opioid overdose or who might witness an overdose can

Be wary of Pharmacy Guild

I read your correspondent’s letter (Change in prescriptions not that great, CCN 388) with interest.

Like any other union, the Pharmacy Guild will always place its own members’ interests ahead of the public, and this is no exception.

Have we already forgotten that the Guild wanted the right to administer the COVID and influenza vaccines, and subsequently charge for a service which is provided for free at a health clinic?

Also, that they wanted to

See

feather their own nests by wanting to prescribe medicines as well as dispense them, which is a clear conflict of interest?

Furthermore, my GP happily

accepts prescriptions that are no longer required, as they are then sent to Africa where they are supplied to people who otherwise cannot afford them; the same goes for expired drugs, as they are still efficacious.

Finally, my GP would be glad to write longer-term scripts, as that way he can serve more patients; incidentally many of my own scripts do not have any repeats at all, and this is at the behest of the Therapeutic Goods Administration, not the GPs themselves.

In short, I would not accept at face value anything that the Guild says but will check with my own GP, and I would suggest that your correspondent does the same.

It is also interesting that the Guild seems to be conducting an email campaign; I have no idea what they are saying as my mail server rejected it as being spam, but I certainly did not give them permission to use my email address in this manner.

Email, May 7 Dave Horsfall, North Gosford

get naloxone for free without a prescription from some NSW community pharmacies, NSW Health needle and syringe programs, opioid treatment services and the NSW Users and AIDS Association.

Visit Your Room – Naloxone for participating sites and more information on take-home naloxone.

Sue Murray

More free and confidential advice is available at Alcohol and Drug Information Service on 1800 250 015 at any time 24/7 or the NSW Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 for information on adverse effects from drugs.

Sue Murray

Crisis situation over global warming

I would like to thank Geoff Cameron for his very clear contribution on global warming (CCN388).

I don’t have his level of expertise but even I can see that we are in a crisis situation.

It was put very clearly recently by Guterres, the SecretaryGeneral of the UN.

He said: “We are watching an advanced technological society choose suicide.”

Yet governments all around

FORUM

the world continue to prioritise the economy over the environment. We are past the point when we can save the economy but not quite past saving civilisation.

We are choosing suicide indeed.

Email, May 4 Ross Carlton, Wyoming

The burnt-out house at Lake Haven Daniel Beck with Fire and Rescue NSW Kariong Station Officer Gordon Jones (left) and Daniel’s father, Robert Beck (right)

Sound of Music comes to Red Tree Theatre

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s beloved musical, The Sound of Music, is coming to Tuggerah’s Red Tree theatre from May 11-27.

Directed by Joshua Maxwell, the show features a talented local cast aged 8-70, with Sophie Booth taking on the

iconic role of Maria Von Trapp and Daniel Widdowson portraying the stern yet endearing Captain Von Trapp.

Audience members can expect to be captivated by the powerful performances, unforgettable music and uplifting story.

Set against the backdrop of

the beautiful Austrian Alps during the lead-up to World War II, The Sound of Music tells the story of Maria, a young woman who leaves her life as a nun to become the governess for the Von Trapp family.

The musical follows Maria as she helps the family rediscover love, music and joy amidst the

encroaching darkness of the war.

Maxwell said the musical was still relevant.

“As we face our own challenging times, with some dark parts of history rearing again, The Sound of Music continues to resonate with audiences due to its themes of

hope, love, and resilience,” he said.

“This production serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we can find strength in unity and the power of music.”

The Red Tree Theatre is committed to providing a space for local talent to shine, and this

production is no exception. Tickets are available at www. redtreetheatre.org.au or by calling the box office between 11am and 2pm on Thursdays and Fridays.

Source: Red Tree Theatre

Chris “Klondike” Masuak to play Link and Pin

Six years after his last visit to Australia, former Radio Birdman guitarist Chris “Klondike” Masuak will return with his handpicked local band Dog Soldier for a select run of east coast shows, including a gig at Link and Pin, Woy Woy, on Sunday, May 21.

Doors will open at 1.30pm, with support act The Golden Dragons.

The Canadian-born Masuak achieved teenage notoriety as guitarist for Australia’s

legendary Radio Birdman, and then waged a War Against The Jive with the country’s hardest working rock and roll band, The Hitmen.

Next came a stint with the original live version of the New Christs, followed by international prominence with the chart-busting Screaming Tribesmen.

A member of the ARIA Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Masuak has an impressive back catalogue of rock, pop and blues releases under his own

name and fronting the Viveiro Wave Riders.

He is now based in Galicia in northern Spain.

Dog Soldier comprises bassist Tony Bambach (Aberration, Green Spiders, exLime Spiders) and drummer Stu Wilson (Aberration, The Rivers, ex-New Christs).

Chris Masuak’s Dog Soldier will re-trace his career, drawing on material from his key bands – with a few surprises thrown in.

Sophie Booth as Maria and Daniel Widdowson as the Captain

CCN

Chris “Klondike” Masuak

Rocketman zooms in to Laycock St

Elton John tribute artist Greg Andrew will celebrates the 50th anniversary release of Goodbye Yellow Brick Road in this special concert experience at Laycock St Community Theatre on May 27.

With blindingly accurate and faithful recreations of John’s greatest hits, combined with effortless melodic and piano skills, Andrew’s uncanny likeness to the Rocketman himself has seen him become one of the most recognised Elton John performers in the world.

In 2017, Andrew performed on the world’s biggest tribute music festival stage in the UK – Tribfest.

He has spent more than 12 years on the world stage, performing to well over half a million enthusiastic patrons in

more than 30 countries.

Rocketman Flying Solo pays homage to Elton John in a two-hour concert production, which takes its name from one of the British singersongwriter’s most-loved tracks.

It celebrates the golden anniversary of Goodbye Yellow Brick Road and is built on the hits and format of John’s own solo touring show.

“Sir Elton always made the audience feel like every show was their show and I’m no different,” Andrew said.

Born into a musical family with his parents playing a combination of piano, violin and saxophone, Andrew is a classically trained pianist, having graduated from Queensland’s Conservatorium of Music in 1989.

He said Elton John and his

long-time collaborator Bernie Taupin had inspired him from an early age.

“The music Sir Elton John and Bernie Taupin have written together over their 50year career (has been like) growing up with a lifelong friend,” he said.

“It is an incredible honour and privilege to perform these iconic songs, and have the audiences react the way they do.”

Rocketman Flying Solo will feature such hits as Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, Bennie And The Jets, Candle In The Wind, Can You Feel The Love Tonight, Daniel, I’m Still Standing, Crocodile Rock and Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me. Booking details are available on the Laycock St website.

Bringing Baroque classics to modern-day stage

The Art House, Wyong is the place to be for music this June with the addition of the Australian Haydn Ensemble added to the bill for the first time.

One show, Die Stille Nacht, brings beautiful baroque works by Vivaldi, Telemann and Biber, featuring Haydn Ensemble soloists David Greco (baritone) and Melissa Farrow (flute).

Playing on period instruments that reflect the true sound of the compositions from that era, the Australian Haydn Ensemble is one of Australia’s leading historically informed orchestras and chamber music groups.

Some of these instruments

are incredibly difficult to play, showing the artists’ commitment to historical research and performance.

Together, the instruments and the musicians create a sound world that is as close as possible to the way the composers heard their work when it was created.

Die Stille Nacht will take audiences on a journey from the darkness and into the light.

The ebony tones of baritone David Greco blend perfectly with dark velvet strings, while the baroque flute shines as delicately as moonlight.

The program features two works by Telemann – his solo cantata Der am Ölberg

zagende Jesus, known as Die Stille Nacht (The Silent Night), and his tender Sonata à 6 in F minor for strings, woven together with works by Vivaldi, including the Flute Concerto in G minor, known as La Notte. For this performance, The Art House will be offering an optional pre-show afternoon tea of scones with cream and jam, plus unlimited percolated coffee to make a day of it.

The Australian Haydn Ensemble performance of Die Stille Nacht will be on Sunday, June 18 at 2pm.

Source: The Art House, Wyong

Top young musicians perform at Pearl Beach

Pearl Beach Progress Association will present its annual Junior Showcase and Scholarship Concerts, featuring students from the Central Coast Conservatorium, on Saturday, May 20.

Since 2005 the Conservatorium has sent its best senior students to compete in the Irvine Family Piano and Pearl Beach Senior Music Scholarships.

The concerts are an excellent opportunity for students to perform for the community and deliver breathtaking performances.

This year the Junior Showcase and Scholarship concerts will be held on one day at the Pearl Beach Memorial Hall, with the

community invited to enjoy the aspiring young musicians.

At 11am the Pearl Beach Junior Showcase concert will celebrate 10 years and students will perform on solo instrument and vocal with passion and conviction rather than competitiveness.

There will be a guest performance by 2022 Irvine Piano recipient, Chris Chen.

Starting at 2.30pm, the afternoon Scholarship concert will feature presentation of the Irvine Family Piano Scholarship valued at $1,000, and the Pearl Beach Music Scholarship sponsored by Pearly’s cafe and shop valued at $1,000.

There will be a guest performance by 2022 Music Scholarship winner Mia Cross.

The audience will be invited to vote for the Peoples Choice award of $500, sponsored in memory of Frances Grove, and a runner-up award of $250 sponsored by McGrath Real Estate.

During adjudication and voting at conclusion of the day there will be a special performance by a past scholarship winner, Aaron Carey.

For a donation, audience members can enjoy drinks and nibbles while adjudication and voting takes place.

Tickets are $10 each concert, or $15 for both.

Bookings can be made at www.trybooking.com/CHPMA.

Source: Pearl Beach Progress Association

The Australian Haydn Ensemble

Source: Marc Mancini

Greg Andrew as Elton John

Last year’s Senior Scholarship contestants

Multimedia symphony Celestial Emu

Symphony Central Coast will present Celestial Emu at 2.30pm on Sunday, June 25, at Central Coast Grammar School as part of the 5 Lands Walk weekend.

The multimedia symphony combines Australian indigenous song, storytelling and dance, orchestra, choir and scientific presentation.

The work is based on the observations of the annual cycle of the Celestial Emu (the dark spaces in the Milky Way) and how it has encouraged songs, traditions and dances of nations who have lived on this continent for generations.

The Milky Way holds a significant place in the traditions of First Nations cultures across Australia – in particular, the Kamilaroi and Euahlayi peoples in northern

and north-western NSW.

Symphony Central Coast Artistic Director and Conductor Steven Stanke worked closely with Kamilaroi and Euahlayi

law man Michael ‘Ghillar’ Anderson to create a respectful and moving orchestral and choral tribute to the sky knowledge that is the Celestial

Emu and how it relates to the life cycle of the emu on earth. The Celestial Emu changes position in the early evening sky, depending on the season,

as the earth rotates around the sun.

As the Emu changes position, it alters in appearance, which connect to earthly culture and

Talented young artists show their work

resources – emu mating, availability of eggs, maturation of the young and the summer dry.

Also on the program is Eleanor Gilbert’s ground-breaking film Star Stories of the Dreaming, an extended interview with ‘Ghillar’ where he tells, in detail, the story and meaning of the Emu in the Sky.

The annual cycle is a metaphor for life itself, with birth, maturity, decay and renewal an ever-present phenomenon for all living creatures and this work takes this cycle as a basis for framing relevant stories, songs and, where possible, dances.

Tickets can be booked at symphonycentralcoast.com.au

Source: Symphony Central Coast

Erina Rotary Club has coordinated an exhibition of contemporary artworks by local high school students from Erina and Terrigal as a part of the celebration of Youth Services Month on the Rotarian calendar.

Supported by Central Coast Council, the exhibition at the Erina Centre aims to showcase the cutting-edge creativity and culture of local young people. The exhibition focuses on the use of mixed media and technology to support self-

Boz will be back on Friday, June 2, at Avoca Beach Theatre when Central Coast production team, Out of the Box, presents a musical celebration of the music of Boz Scaggs, Toto and the Steve Miller band.

Out of the Box is creative duo John Coker and Steven Isoardi. Both professional musicians in their own right, they have joined forces to create new options in live entertainment.

expression and creative endeavours.

The theme for the exhibition is Imagine, with the young artists sharing their perspective on the world around them.

Teachers Gail Wright of Terrigal High School and Patricia Hendrie of Erina High School have been keen supporters of the exhibition, submitting students’ artworks for the occasion and helping with set-up and curation of the exhibition.

“It’s a great opportunity for

the students to be able to present their artworks to the broader community as well as their families and friends,” Wright said.

“The gallery space is free and open to the general public visiting the library, which means so many people will see the artworks.”

The works include Terrigal High School Year 7’s digital prints of drawings inspired by American Animator, Gary Baseman, creator of the cartoon Teachers Pet, and Year

11’s work focusing on nature.

Erina High School’s Years 7 to 12 submitted works of landscapes, still life, animation and portrait drawings and paintings.

Hendrie and her Department Head Brian Huntington endorsed their high school’s participation.

“We are delighted to be a part of this event again this year,” they said.

“The students have been passionate and keen to take

risks and have a go and the more opportunities that our students get to present their work publicly the greater confidence they get.”

The exhibition was launched on Monday, May 1, and will be in the Erina Centre Gallery, next to the Library at Erina Fair, until Monday, May 15.

Students, their families, teachers and Department Head teachers joined Erina Rotary Club members at the launch of the exhibition.

The Rotary Club hopes to

Boz is Back at Avoca Beach

Boz is Back is a six-piece live musical production.

With a 40-year career in music, Boz Scaggs has explored rock, blues and soul genres to create a trademark sound.

Boz is Back explores his successful career and his involvement with Toto and the Steve Miller band.

Fronting the show is Tim Moxey, who brings a wealth of experience to the stage.

Receiving high praises for his performances on The Voice and X Factor, Moxey has recorded several albums.

Boz is Back combines musical production and visual imagery and is made up of Australia’s finest musicians and vocalists. Enjoy hits including Lowdown, Lido Shuffle, Rosanna and Africa.

Tickets are available at www. avocabeachtheatre.com.au.

repeat the event next year.

“The students’ work is so impressive, and I love how they have used a mix of techniques to create the works, including analogue drawing and painting with digital editing and printing,” a spokesperson said.

“I hope that this will inspire some of the young people to continue and pursue a career in the creative arts sector in the future.”

Symphony Central Coast

CCN Boz is Back will play Avoca Beach Theatre on June 2

Source: Erina Rotary Club

The artwork Friends by Year 9 Erina High student James Moore Family and friends enjoying Terrigal High School Year 11 artworks on natural items

Eastcoast Beverages invites you to a Day on the Farm

Eastcoast Beverages’ annual Day on the Farm event will return on Sunday, June 11, from 10am to 4pm.

Located at Kulnura, the thirdgeneration family-owned juice company will open the gates to its citrus farm, welcoming as many as 15,000 people to experience a fun day out amidst the 20,000 citrus trees. The family-friendly atmosphere will include the opportunity to pick navel oranges from the 150-acre property, where guests can wander up and down the orchards, picking as many oranges as they can carry in one fruit bag for just $5.

The new independent film Live the Life You Please will play at Avoca Beach Theatre at 6.30pm on Thursday, May 25, with a possible second showing on Friday, May 26, if ticket sales permit.

With its premiers timed to coincide with Palliative Care Week (May 21-27), the film will screen at 50 cinemas nationwide.

Told by medical professionals, patients and their families, it is an intimate portrait of the end-

Good on ya Mum!

musicians and fun activities for kids such as the Kindifarm Petting Zoo, face painting, jumping castles, and more. Eastcoast Beverages will also offer factory tours to guide guests around the factory, which pumps out 12 million litres of juices annually.

Eastcoast Beverages’ Day on the Farm event is free to enter and dogs are welcome. For more information, see the Eastcoast Beverages website.

Source: Eastcoast Beverages

The event will feature guided farm trailer tours, food and market vendors, live cooking demonstrations, local

Uplifting film about end of life

of-life experience and makes profound observations about life, death and what happens in between.

Live the Life You Please includes a treasure trove of incredible stories captured all around Australia, from cities and regional centres to remote communities. It will make you smile, laugh, laugh harder and occasionally shed a tear as it shares the stories of a diverse range of Australians experiencing their last chapter.

Their powerful stories show that palliative care is more than medicine – it’s about quality of life.

It’s about providing physical, social, emotional and spiritual support to patients and their loved ones.

It’s about embracing every moment and living the life you please until the very end.

You can buy tickets at livethelifeyouplease.com/seethe-film.

Source: Moonshine Agency

still from the film

MISSING LINK

MISSING LINK

Residents and visitors will be able to celebrate the Central Coast’s spectacular hinterland communities and choose their own adventure at this year’s Harvest Festival over the June 10-11 weekend.

Central Coast Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith, said the popular weekend event attracted thousands of locals and tourists each year.

Something for everyone at Harvest Festival

“There’s something for everyone with a wide range of unique events and experiences with 32 event hubs to visit at this year’s festival,” Smith said.

“This festival offers the rare chance to take a glimpse behind the farm gates as you explore eight rural farming communities and their picturesque heritage villages right on the Central Coast –including Dooralong, Jilliby, Yarramalong, Wyong Creek,

Kulnura, Mangrove Mountain, Peats Ridge, Somersby and Calga.”

From paddock to plate dining experiences and wine tastings to fruit picking, farm experiences, produce markets, hands-on workshops, live music and entertainment, a range of family friendly activities and much more, the two-day Harvest Festival program offers something for every taste and interest.

A number of event hubs provide the opportunity to prebook experiences in advance, so be sure to check out the event program early, reserve your place to ensure you don’t miss out.

Council is also reminding community members and visitors to drive carefully when heading to Harvest Festival event destinations over the long weekend, with increased traffic and some delays

expected.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said the hinterland was a hidden jewel of the Coast which shined during the festival, bringing many benefits to the region.

“Over 30,000 locals and visitors from the Coast and beyond attended the 2022 event, injecting more than $3M into the local economy, building local pride and celebrating the diversity and sustainability of

the Coast,” Hart said.

“I encourage residents to support our region’s rural communities by exploring the hinterland and its offerings over the Harvest Festival weekend.”

View the full event program and booking details at www. lovecentralcoast.com/ harvestfestival.

Comprised of three stunning retirement villages and one a ordable housing village, Peninsula Villages o ers retirees and those with care needs a fresh approach to supported living.

O ering distinct levels of care including aged care, dementia care, palliative care and respite care as well as independent living, there is something to suit the needs of every senior community member on the Central Coast.

Each location o ers the very best in coastal living, boasting fresh sea breezes and beautifully landscaped garden areas, as well as a range of onsite facilities and services.

RETIREMENT LIVING & AGED CARE

Source: Central Coast Council

The Harvest Festival returns over the June long weekend

Farm experiences are part of the festival

The Sanitarium Health Food Company, with its Australian headquarters at Berkeley Vale, is celebrating its 125th birthday by reaffirming its commitment to make a positive impact on the nation’s health.

Since 1898, Sanitarium has been nourishing Aussie families with affordable healthy foods, educating people to eat well and move more, and giving food to communities in need. It began in a neighbourhood bakery in Northcote,Melbourne, after a small group of Seventhday Adventists migrated from Battle Creek, Michigan bringing foods made by Dr John Harvey Kellogg for patients at his health institute.

In January 1898, Edward Halsey, who had trained with Dr Kellogg, began making the company’s first ready-to-eat cereals, including Granose wheat biscuits, a forerunner to Weet-Bix and Sanitarium Peanut Butter.

Sanitarium was registered as

Business & Property

Sanitarium celebrates 125th birthday

a business on April 27, 1898.

Within a decade, it had expanded to open health food cafes around Australia and had launched Australia’s first plantbased meat-alternative, Nuttose.

When the fledgling food company made its first profits in 1906, it donated them to support health education in the South Pacific Islands.

Sanitarium was the first to introduce breakfast cereals, pioneered innovative soy foods and promoted plant-based eating long before it became popular.

It is now one of the largest Australian-owned food companies, employing 1200 people across six Australian sites and exporting products to almost 40 countries, with its head office right here on the Central Coast.

“We believe healthier choices support the potential for every Australian to live a long and healthy life,” CEO Kevin Jackson said.

“Sanitarium was founded

with the core purpose of helping Australians to eat well and live well.

“This purpose remains just as important today, particularly as families struggle with the growing impacts of lifestylerelated chronic diseases, food insecurity and cost-of-living pressures.

“That’s why we’re strengthening our commitment to make access to healthier choices easier for more Australians.

“We’ll do this through the affordable healthy foods we make, increasing our investment in health education, and by doing more to develop food and nutrition security for all.”

Sanitarium is one of Australia’s most trusted food companies with products including WeetBix, So Good and UP&GO found in two out of three households nationwide.

Ninety percent of its products carry a 4 to 5 Health Star Rating.

Leading dietician Shane

Landon said the company had an enduring commitment to make great-tasting and convenient foods, that most importantly represent good value nutrition.

“Getting this balance right is critical in making a sustainable difference to the health of our nation,” he said.

He said the company’s iconic cereal Weet-Bix as was an example of the commitment in action.

“The nutritional impact of Weet-Bix can’t be underestimated,” he said.

“Found in one in every two homes, it is a significant source of wholegrains in the Australian diet.

“In fact, one bowl of Weet-Bix (two wheat biscuits) provides 60 per cent of a person’s daily wholegrain needs, plus fibre, B vitamins and 25 per cent of their iron needs – from as little as 20 cents per serve.”

In 2022, Sanitarium donated more than 4.2 million serves through a network of charity partners

Sanitarium is also committed to giving back to the community.

Last year alone it donated more than 4.2 million serves through a network of charity partners, headlined by Foodbank Australia.

Entering its 22nd year, Sanitarium’s support for breakfast programs in Australian primary schools is one of the company’s most significant food and nutrition security initiatives.

Its production of healthy foods has gone hand-in-hand with its investment in health education.

“Our goal has always been to give all Australians access to the knowledge, resources and skills they need to make healthier choices,” Jackson said.

“In 1901 we opened Australia’s first health food cafes which served food education and cooking classes alongside nutritious plantbased foods.

“We shifted into more modern forms of education in the late

1980s with the formation of our Nutrition Education Service which published health research and produced health and food education materials for the community.

“In the decade that followed, we launched the Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon to lift physical activity rates among primary school aged children, with a nationwide event series held annually around Australia until 2020.

“Today, millions of Australians visit the Sanitarium website every year for dietitianapproved plant-based recipes and nutrition advice, and we’re excited to see our new partnership with Life Education improving the quality of healthy eating and physical activity education in Australian primary schools.”

Proudly serving goodness for 125 years. Learn more at www. sanitarium.com

Source: Sanitarium Health Food Company

Workers at Sanitarium’s former site at Cooranbong around 1900

Supplying product to Foodbank

Ettalong company rocks the makeup world

Ettalong Beach company

Modelrock has been crowned The Makeup Artists Guild Asia Pacific (The MAGAP) 2023 Makeup Brand of the Year for a second time, after taking out the title in 2019.

Modelrock also took out the 2023 Beauty Boss New Product of the Year award at a gala event in Sydney on April 30.

Owners and co-founders, Raelene Mara and Jeremy Spears, accepted the awards.

As a new entrant for the 2023 Beauty Boss Awards, it was Modelrock’s Lash Play DIY at home extension kits that wowed the judging panel.

Allowing consumers to create beautiful lash extension looks in the comfort of their own home, the application lasts up to two weeks.

The MAGAP & Beauty Boss awards were attended by the Australian and Asia Pacific makeup/beauty industry’s elite

and key influencers, with an international judging panel.

“We are so happy and so incredibly grateful to have won the MAGAP Makeup Brand of the Year award for the second time, and the Beauty Boss New

Product of the Year award.,” Mara said.

“We truly appreciate this amazing recognition for all of our hard work, and our dedication to creating highquality faux eyelashes and

makeup products that have resonated with our customers. “Winning these awards is not just about the prestige and recognition that comes with it, but it is also a validation of our brand’s mission and values.

“We are passionate about creating our products, and these awards really validate that we are succeeding in our efforts to make amazing products that the beauty industry loves to use.”

Modelrock has carved out a reputation for producing high quality products and always going the extra mile to research and deliver only the very best. Everything from the manufacturers, cosmetic formulas, lash artisans, packaging and branding is overseen by Mara and Spears.

“(This) will deliver opportunities for us to connect with new customers, partners, and influencers in the beauty industry, and help us expand our reach even further,” Mara said.

“This achievement will also inspire us to continue pushing boundaries, innovating, and striving for excellence in everything we do.”

The MAGAP unites, nurtures and empowers makeup artists and is the trusted voice for the makeup/beauty community, striving to unite all genres of makeup artists in the Asia Pacific region.

The awards empower artists and businesses by celebrating their achievements, moving the industry forward and elevating the calibre of the beauty industry in Australia.

”We are beyond thrilled with the awards this year,” MAGAP Director Melanie Burnicle said.

“The calibre of businesses and artists entering the awards is absolutely beyond expectation.

“To make a finalist listing this year was no easy task.”

For more information on Modelrock, go to www. modelrocklashes.com or call 0414 864 186.

Source: The Makeup Artists Guild Asia Pacific

New Gosford RSL on track to open next year

For months, huge cranes have marked the skyline along Central Coast Hwy at West Gosford as Gosford RSL Club’s major redevelopment powered ahead.

All structural work has now been complete on the revamp, with a topping-out ceremony held on Friday, May 5 to mark the milestone.

A traditional tree hoisting ceremony marked the completion of 65 per cent of the landmark building, which is on track to open next year.

“We are pleased to mark this significant milestone in the construction of the new Gosford RSL Club,” Club CEO Russell Cooper said.

“We are a community-owned organisation and from the inception of this project we have been insistent on creating a venue that Gosford and the Central Coast can be proud of.

“Our site marks the gateway to Gosford and the Central Coast and our new club will

make a statement that our region is prosperous, modern and growing.

“It’s exciting to hear so many locals talking about the new club now that they can see the full scope of the building.

“It’s only going to get even more exciting, as the fit-out commences, and we start forming the hospitality spaces that will be entertaining locals and visitors to the Central Coast

from early next year.”

The ultra-modern, threestorey venue is the culmination of a collaborative partnership between the club, North Construction & Building, WMK Architecture, The APP Gr prominently overlooking Central Coast Hwy and will feature a distinctive portecochere entry, RSL museum and reception servicing both the RSL and the adjoining

motel on the ground floor.

The first floor will contain a cafe, lounge, bar, multiple indoor and outdoor dining options, kids’ play area and teenage retreat.

The second floor will showcase sophisticated conference and event spaces, a sports bar and Gosford RSL’s successful Oak Haven Brewery.

Once the new club is operational with patrons

enjoying the new spaces, North will demolish the existing club and establish an additional 154 car parking spaces to accommodate the expected increase in patron numbers.

The existing RSL Club continues to remain operational throughout construction.

Gosford RSL Club Group consists of Gosford RSL Club, The Galaxy Motel and the Ashwood Motel and employs

more than 130 staff.

The club has been operating since 1960 and has about 25,000 members.

It supports the Gosford RSL Sub Branch and is very proud of the heritage and history connected to the institution and the work that is done to assist and support Diggers past and present.

The club’s business values date back to when the it first formed following World War II.

It was created to provide a place for returned servicemen and women to meet and the RSL brand has always been a symbol of respect and honesty within the community.

North Construction & Building was founded in 1987 and has grown to become a trusted regional construction company with an award-winning reputation for excellence.

North has always been and continues to be 100 per cent employee owned.

Good Day Out Festival to re-launch coffee range

About 300 people turned out for the Buondi Good Day Out Festival at Wallarah Bay Recreation Club where Nestle Professional unveiled its new-look Buondi coffee range.

There was live music, face painting and games for the children as coffee lovers tastetested the Buondi blends created specifically for coffee

drinkers who regularly frequent pubs and clubs.

Nestle Professional Master Barista Jo Yuen said the Buondi coffee blends were versatile and produced great tasting coffees, with or without milk.

“Buondi’s Complex Soul is the perfect blend for the environment at the Wallarah Bay Recreation Club,” he said.

“It suits the clientele who like

a more subtle cup and is ideal for that moment when you hit pause with a coffee after enjoying a meal with friends and family.”

Other blends are Dark Spark, boasting a rich aroma of brown sugar and maple syrup, and Steady State is easy to enjoy with or without milk and has a delicate, nutty aroma and creamy chocolate notes.

Buondi coffee beans are

Source: Gosford RSL Club

Rainforest Alliance Certified and are sourced from all over the world.

The coffee is expertly roasted and blended in Nestlé’s Gympie factory in Queensland to suit the Australian palate and lifestyle, backed by Nestlé Professional’s expertise in delivering tailored coffee solutions across Australia.

Sue Murray

Key stakeholders at the topping out ceremony

Raelene Mara and Jeremy Spears at the awards event

Enjoying the festival at Wallarah Bay Recreation Club

Togetherness could boost your retirement savings

WITH Michelle BALTAZAR

Editor-in-Chief • Money magazine

Couples have joint bank accounts to pay off their mortgage, their credit cards and other bills, and put savings aside to build a secure future.

But when it comes to super, there’s no alternative but to have an individual account.

While compulsory super is a success story, many fund members remain disengaged for a variety of reasons.

People are defaulted into their workplace super, where their employer’s contributions accumulate until retirement.

To complicate matters further, a new default account is opened every time someone moves to another job, giving rise to multiple accounts and more fees.

Although people have the right to choose their own super fund, most don’t.

But even if fund members are engaged and do all they can to maximise their super by picking a strong fund with low fees, they do not have the option of opening a joint or linked account to oversee their pooled savings.

Clearer picture of future Submissions to the federal government’s Retirement Income Review touched on the issue.

Actuarial firm Rice Warner argued such accounts would lead to higher engagement and greater empowerment.

"Couples who combined accounts are more likely to consolidate all their super and this would remove the costs of holding unnecessary accounts,” it notes.

“Retirement benefit projections provided by super funds would be more accurate and members would get a better picture of how they are tracking for retirement.

“The use of the age pension in benefit projections or online calculators could then be based on the current marital status, and build in the impact of the means test for the age pension.”

Both in the same fund Meanwhile, some people ask if there’s any benefit in, at least, being in the same super fund.

Nick Bruining, an independent adviser with netplan.com.au, says there are some advantages, such as the ability to monitor accounts more easily together.

“You’re both working on the same fund platform, the same user interface, so there’s familiarity and convenience.

The question then arises: which partner moves across?

“You would go back to the fundamentals: how do these funds stack up at the moment, what is the pricing like, what is the back-office support like?"

On the other hand, being in different funds gives you diversification, says Bruining.

looking for simplification and the last thing they want is more complexity.”

This is especially so in pension phase, when you might need more help with withdrawals, for example.

Consider the differences

your account-based pension and move the money to an accumulation account before rolling over to a new fund.

“You’ve then got issues over the time it takes between the liquidation request and when that unit price gets struck, which can be an issue particularly in volatile times,” he says.

Millions of Aussies with outstanding student loans appear almost certain to see a sizeable jump in their debt from June 1.

While a HECS-HELP loan is often seen as one of the cheapest forms of debt because it doesn’t

The simplified structure for couples, it says, combined with member direct investments offered by several funds, would provide many of the benefits of a self-managed super fund. attract interest, it is indexed each year to reflect changes in the cost of living.

“You could also argue that it would be an advantage to be in the same fund in the advent that a spouse or partner passes away – the fund’s proof of ID of the beneficiary has already been established.”

“The counter-argument to having all your eggs in the one basket is if there’s a risk the fund performance goes pear-shaped, you’re not as badly hit.

“There are lots of issues that come into a decision to change funds. It’s not just the fees and performance, it’s the ease of use.

“As people get older they’re

Student debt is set to soar with inflation

And because inflation has been running so hot, it’s possible that the indexation rate applied from June could be 6% or higher.

“With the current inflation factor sitting at 3.9% – the highest in a decade – and with this likely to increase, we need to start thinking about the trade-off between paying the minimum HECS and making voluntary repayments,” says Glen Hare,

financial adviser and co-founder of Fox & Hare Wealth.

So, could those in a position to make voluntary payments towards their student debt be better served doing that rather than investing the money?

“If the inflation factor ends up

There are things to check before you jump ship – you might find subtle differences in trust deeds, says Bruining.

“One fund might have a non-lapsing binding death nomination, another not.

“It’s unusual these days, but there can be subtle differences in the trust deed.”

Also, you’ll have to liquidate

being 6%, for example, we need to ask ourselves: am I better off earning 4.5% interest in a high-interest savings account or reducing the debt that I’m now paying 6% on?

"Investing in the stockmarket over the long term can generate strong returns, although with a higher inflation factor applied

Then there’s the human factor: the parties may have different investment objectives. This needs to be established at the outset.

“If there’s a clear, demonstrable benefit in changing funds, then it’s worth doing. But not just for the sake of it.”

VITA PALESTRANT

to HELP, we should be considering whether the risk is worth the chance of a return greater than 6%.”

Anyone looking to make a voluntary repayment should get in early, though, to ensure that it can be processed by the ATO before June 1, says Hare.

TOM WATSON

Business leaders look at Coast’s economy over brekkie

Almost 300 business leaders from across the Central Coast attended the annual Business NSW Central Coast Economic Breakfast recently to learn how transformational transport and aviation projects coming online in the next five years will affect business growth.

The event kicked off with Member for Wyong David Harris, who is Minister for Central Coast, Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty, Gaming and Racing, Veterans and Medical Research, sharing his vision

Central Coast tourism operators will be interested in webinars to be delivered by Destination NSW this month to showcase opportunities for visitor economy businesses to target specific visitor groups.

The first webinar will be on Selling Stays and Experiences to LGBTQIA+ Visitors. estination NSW and Husbands That Travel will share key insights for LGBTQIA+ visitors and how to create inclusive and welcoming experiences. This webinar series will take place over two sessions and provide practical tips for

and commitment to regional growth.

“It was encouraging to hear Minister Harris reaffirm his commitment to fight for development of the Central Coast and support the business community to tackle labour shortages, develop the Gosford waterfront and address our transport issues,” Business NSW Executive Director Regional NSW and Visitor Economy, Paula Martin, said.

Following the Minister’s address, a global economic update was provided by Chief Economist at Commsec, Craig

James.

“The Central Coast is performing well on a number of indicators including unemployment, tourism, housing but the challenges of lower consumer spend continue to outweigh falling inflation.” Martin said.

“Central Coast tourism average spend is outperforming other regions which is welcome news and provides confidence to the tourism sector to continue investing in their product.

“We are also seeing average house prices drop around

$170,000, potentially signalling a levelling out to the unaffordability of regular housing stock.”

Following the economic outlook, Business NSW hosted a panel of experts to discuss how significant projects in surrounding regions can helping the Central Coast to plan for growth.

“The Hunter and Western Sydney are going live in the next five years with significant infrastructure projects like the Western Sydney international Airport, Newcastle Airport expansion and Newcastle Port

clean energy transition and these projects represent new growth opportunities for Central Coast business,” Martin said.

“Understanding how these significant projects can stimulate export, new supply chains, tourism and emerging sectors like clean energy are important to the overall plan for industry growth across the region.”

Other speakers included: Central Coast Council Director for Environment and Planning, Dr Alice Howe; Newcastle Airport CEO Dr Peter Cock;

Webinars for tourism operators

accommodation, visitor attractions and tour providers to understand the needs of visitors from the LGBTQIA+ community and deliver an inclusive and welcoming experience.

The first session, from 10am to 11am on Tuesday, May 16, will be on understanding the experiences and needs.

The second will be from 10am to 11am on Thursday, May 18, on creating inclusive experiences.

The next webinar, from 10am to 11am on Wednesday, May 24, will focus on Creating EVfriendly Road Trip Experiences. A guest presenter from the

The webinars will help operators target specific visitor groups

Office of Energy and Climate Change (OECC) will highlight how to attract EV drivers to

destinations and businesses. It will include: opportunities for visitor economy businesses

to become more EV-friendly and attract EV road trippers; information about installing EV chargers, and how to participate in round two of the NSW Government EV Destination Charging Grants program; and tips for promoting EV charging facilities to visitors.

Registrations for the webinars can be made at https://www. destinationnsw.com.au/ tourism/businessdevelopment-resources/nswfirst-workshops-program.

Destination NSW has also partnered with EarthCheck to deliver free Sustainability Skills Micro-credentials for NSW visitor economy businesses.

Western Sydney Airport Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Scott MacKillop; Director for Placemaking and City Plan at the Greater Cities Commission, Stephanie Jones; Central Coast Aero Club General Manager Andrew Smith; and Port of Newcastle CEO Craig Carmody. Formerly the NSW Business Chamber, Business NSW is the peak policy and advocacy body which has been representing businesses in NSW since 1826.

The Sustainability Skills

Micro-credentials are three online short courses designed to assist visitor economy businesses including accommodation, tours and attractions to increase their sustainability knowledge, deliver on consumer demand for sustainable experiences and provide practical solutions to implement in their business. Places are limited, with expressions of interest closing on May 19. Apply at https://www.typsy. com/partners/destinationnsw.

Source:

Destination Central Coast

Paula Martin from Business NSW addresses the group

Business leaders at the Economic Breakfast

Kincumber resident Graham Harrison is inviting all Central Coast residents to take part in Donor Heroes Night on May 18.

Harrison has been actively promoting organ and tissue donation and transplantation through presentations to local Rotary, Lions and Probus clubs from a Donor Dad’s perspective following the passing of his 10-year-old son.

“The saddest day of our lives occurred on May 18, 1993, when my wife Elayne and I had to say farewell to our 10-yearold son Ben for the last time,” he said.

“Three days earlier Ben had been a happy youngster looking forward to an operation to straighten his back, which would provide him with a healthy bright future.

“Unfortunately, fate had different intentions and the surgery failed when his aorta tore and as a consequence, he went 12 minutes without blood to his brain; he was diagnosed

Help celebrate transplant donor heroes

brain dead.

“When discussing the diagnosis with Ben’s doctors, we stated that we wished to donate Ben’s organs and tissue to those that needed them most.

“As a result, our decision led us down the path of donation and transplantation, not realising where it was going to lead us.

“We were initially told that Ben’s kidneys went to a middleaged man and his heart and lungs to a 12-year-old girl in Melbourne.

“During the next few months, we received letters from David, Ben’s kidney recipient, and the parents of the little girl, which were very special for us to receive.

“Through an unusual set of circumstances, we were to meet and befriend David and his family, which developed into a close and long-standing friendship.

“Sadly, after 16 years of friendship, we had to farewell David when he succumbed to

cancer due to his medication.”

As an outcome of Ben’s donation and with the backing and support of Donor Families Australia (DFA), Harrison initiated Donor Heroes Night on May 18, 2020, to celebrate and commemorate all Donor Heroes.

“This year will be the fourth year for Donor Heroes Night

and it is hoped that over 500,000 hits will be achieved during the four weeks leading up to and including the event on the May 18,” he said.

“This year will be rather special as Donor Heroes Night will be going both national and international.”

The night will pay tribute to the 25,000-plus organ and

tissue Donor Heroes over the past 35 years.

It is also intended to raise the profile of organ and tissue donation and transplantation, providing an opportunity for families to discuss the issue of donation and the ultimate outcome of giving the gift of life.

Harrison hopes it will also prompt people to register their wish to donate with the Australian National Organ Donor Register.

“A lot is publicised about recipients receiving their transplants and the wonderful work of the medical staff involved,” Harrison said.

“However, little is ever mentioned of the donors themselves.

“It is Donor Families Australia’s (DFA) opinion that all organ and tissue donors are the true heroes; without donors there would be no transplants/ recipients.”

This year DFA has issued 20 invitations to international organisations and agencies to

Upgrades for 15 Coast schools

Fifteen schools on the Central Coast are set to benefit from a share of $32M in Federal Government grants to upgrade school infrastructure and equipment.

The funding is part of a $250M commitment to provide equipment upgrades including: new or improved outdoor learning areas; new or upgraded air conditioning; better ventilation; and new tablets and laptops.

All schools across the country were invited to apply for the funding and projects were assessed by the Department of Education and selected based on need, with 1,300 schools successful and more than half of them in remote or regional areas.

In the Robertson electorate,

Pretty Beach Public School will receive $25,000 to purchase or upgrade ICT equipment, including laptops and tablets.

Other schools in Robertson to be granted funding are: Central Mangrove Public School; Kulnura Public School; Ngaruki Gulgul at Kariong; Somersby Public School; and Yattalunga Valley Christian School at Green Point.

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid said Central Coast schools deserved great infrastructure and quality equipment to help students achieve their best.

“The Government is investing in a better and fairer education system, and this is terrific news for our local schools with more to come,” he said.

“This is a great outcome and I’m happy that we can deliver funding for schools in the

Robertson electorate.”

In the Shortland electorate, Northlakes Public School will receive $21,400 to assist in refurbishing classrooms and Northlakes High School will

receive $25,000 to build new outdoor learning spaces.

Member for Shortland Pat Conroy said the Government was investing in a better and fairer education system.

become involved in the hope the event will gain world recognition.

It aims to raise the profile of DFA, enabling it to better serve donor families who go through the system.

It is also hoped that some financial support my come out of the event, with civic minded companies or corporations invited to contribute.

Participants on May 18 are asked to take a photo of their porch/balcony light or light a candle, and in the case of donor families a photo of their donor hero, and post it, along with a suitable comment, on the Donor Families Australia Facebook Page at Facebook. com/DonorFamiliesAustralia.

For further information involving Donor Heroes Night go to www.donorfamiliesaus tralia.org/donor-heroes-night or contact DFA at admin@ donorfamiliesaustralia.org.

“I look forward to continuing to work with local schools on the Central Coast and the community to deliver more funding for great local projects,” he said.

Help in accessing aged care

Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid has welcomed the introduction of the Care Finder program, offering vulnerable older Australians one-on-one intensive support to help them access aged care as well as health, housing, and community services.

The Care Finder program was launched in January following a recommendation from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, which

called on the Federal Government to provide more support to older Australians.

“The Government is committed to improving the quality of life for older Australians,” Reid said.

“The Care Finder program will help vulnerable older Australians navigate aged care and the services available to them.

“It will especially help people from language backgrounds other than English, people who have no carer or support

person, and find it difficult to understand information.

“As a society, we must ensure we look after our most vulnerable communities, and as the Federal Member for Robertson, my office is ready to assist older people in our community.”

Care Finders can assist in a range of areas including talking to My Aged Care, attending and providing support at the assessment, identifying and shortlisting aged care providers, completing forms

In Dobell, seven schools will get a slice of the pie.

Member for Dobell Emma McBride said Tuggerah Lakes Secondary College, The Entrance Public School, Wamberal Public School, Toukley Public School, Hopetown School, TLK Youth College at Berkeley Vale and Wyong Christian Community School would all benefit.

“This is a great outcome and I’m pleased that we can deliver this funding to much-needed projects for our local schools,” McBride said.

Education Minister Jason Clare said the funding would provide everything from iPads to air conditioners.

“New equipment and upgrades are good for schools, good for teachers, and good for students,” he said.

and understanding aged care service agreements and helping with other challenges.

On the Central Coast, Care Finders include Bungree Aboriginal Association Limited, HammondCare, and Wesley Community Service Limited.

To learn more about the Care Finder program, Care Finders, and eligibility, visit https:// www.myagedcare.gov.au/ help-care-finder.

Source: Graham Harrison

Ben Harrison lost his life and became a donor at the age of 10

Terry Collins

Federal Minister for Education Jason Clare, Member for Robertson Gordon Reid and students from Pretty Beach Public School

Source: Member for Robertson Gordon Reid

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid with older resident Patricia Lynch

Council adopts management plan for community land

Central Coast Council has adopted a new region-wide Plan of Management (POM) for community land despite criticisms and pleas from community activists and environmental groups for more time to consider its implications.

The POM was adopted at Council’s April meeting and came into effect on Wednesday, May 3.

It covers nearly all Councilowned community land across the region, with a small number of areas excepted, including Kincumba Mountain, Central Coast Stadium and Gosford City Bowling Club, which retain their existing Plans of Management.

Council owns nearly 2500 parcels (lots) of community land with almost 95 per cent of them covered in the single POM.

An extended community consultation process held from mid-December to the start of March on the categorisation of more than 1000 lots as natural area, sportsground, park, or general community use saw community feedback leading to Council committing to review the categorisation of about 14 per cent of parcels in the adopted POM within the next 12 months.

Almost 350 community members and organisations made written submissions while just under 150 community members attended a series of independent public hearings held across the region.

Council Director of Environment and Planning

Alice Howe said the adoption of the Plan of Management would give added security and clarity to the community and stakeholders.

“The Plan of Management will supersede the outdated plans currently existing and will allow us to extend leases for community organisations and sporting groups to existing services such as community halls and facilities,” Howe said.

The categorisation process ensures that community land is used in a manner that best reflects the community’s interest in it and also the characteristics of the land itself.

“The level of engagement by community members, both by making submissions and by attending public hearings, demonstrates just how much the community of the Central Coast cares about land management,” Howe said.

“We will continue to engage with the community about the most appropriate use of community land and will review how individual parcels of land are used over time to ensure that the most sustainable outcomes are achieved.”

Two speakers spoke against the POM at the public forum prior to the meeting.

Mark Ellis said public hearings and consultation on the draft were “just a tick the box exercise”.

“Many people are wondering how does the opening up and exploitation of natural bushland fit in with the community strategic plan focus of cherished and protected natural beauty, which has the objective to protect our rich environmental heritage by conserving beaches waterways, bushlands and wildlife corridors?” he said.

“The Plan of Management is an important tool for managing community land, which is written by Council in consultation with the community.”

Ellis said community comments had “largely been ignored”, with 35 pages of suggested changes rejected.

“There are many examples across the Coast of natural areas (bushland) that have been transferred (to the) community category.”

He cited Copacabana beach and sensitive dunes on The Esplanade at Umina Beach.

“Austin Butler (oval) at Woy Woy and the whole of that general area needs a separate POM,” he said.

He said there were many examples of incorrect classification.

“Apart from the failed allocation of categories and removal of existing POMs, this proposed policy fails in the directive of the act to outline how these areas will be maintained,” he said.

Activist Joy Cooper was the second speaker, asking Administrator Rik Hart if he had read the 343 submissions or simply relied on staff reports.

“It is wonderful that Central Coast Council has finally decided to promote this region as an Eco Tourism Destination,” she said.

“I just want to check though, that Council staff understand that Eco stands for ecological and not economic.

“One of the reasons why so many people wrote submissions about the community land plan of management and schedule is because Central Coast people care deeply about our community land.

“It is why we live here and we expect our Council to manage it properly.”

Cooper said the POM was “shallow, flimsy and open to interpretation”.

“The community does not have confidence it will result in the best practice management

FAMILY FUNERALS

of our public land,” she said.

Cooper said many large sites should have their own POM, including the Copacabana sand dunes, Wyong Golf Course and the Landcom Gleneagles Estate at Green Point.

She criticised the timing of the consultation period over Christmas and the location of some of the public hearings.

On the eve of the April 26 meeting, the Community Environment Network (CEN) accused Council of setting aside more than 340 submissions from the community in adopting “a single generic plan of management for over 2000 lots”.

“The CEN made one of the comprehensive submissions that staff have set aside,” Chair Gary Chestnut said.

“In March we requested an urgent meeting with the Administrator to discuss our concerns, but our request was unsuccessful.

“CEN’s first submission concluded that the draft plan of management may not comply with Central Coast Council’s obligations under the Local Government Act 1993 (LG Act), particularly in relation to the

The Central Coast's oldest Family owned Funeral home

management of natural areas (bushland, waterways, escarpment, foreshore and wetlands),” he said.

“CEN’s second submission found at least 200 lots that should have been natural areas incorrectly categorised as either general use, parks or sportsgrounds plus a failure to acknowledge a site of cultural significance that is identified in the Central Coast Local Environmental Plan 2022.” Chestnut questioned why Council staff were “in such a hurry to push this through” and had chosen to ignore deep and long-term local knowledge.

He too said that the public consultation was nothing more than a “box ticking exercise”.

Chestnut said CEN was thankful that 22 natural area land parcels had been removed from the schedule, but many others deserved review and a significant number deserved their own plans of management. Further information about how community land has been categorised and can be used, as well as the recently released independent public hearing report, can be viewed on Council’s website.

Terry Collins

Austin Butler Reserve at Woy Woy – some say it needs its own POM

Should Wyong Golf Course have its own POM?

A Women’s Health Forum was held at Ocean Beach Surf Lifesaving Club, Umina Beach, on Monday, May 1, organised by Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid, himself a doctor.

Special guests included Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care Ged Kearney and Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention and Assistant Minister for Rural and Regional Health and Member for Dobell Emma McBride.

Bounce your way to better health

Hunter New England Central Coast Primary Health Network (HNECC PHN) has launched a campaign designed to encourage and raise awareness of the benefits of healthy lifestyles and to support local primary health practitioners’ preventative care efforts.

The Bounce into better health and wellbeing campaign will support the Hunter New England and Central Coast areas and provide primary health professionals access to

tools and resources to improve preventative care of patients across the region.

HNECC PHN Executive Manager Populations, Access and Performance, Dr Alison Koschel, said the link between unhealthy weight and higher rates of morbidity was a major driver for the campaign and one of Australia’s key public health issues.

“Behavioural change toward healthier lifestyles is needed if we are to curb Australia’s current obesity crisis,” she said.

“Discussing the benefits of a healthy weight is part of the routine care of people who are overweight or obese or at risk of chronic disease.

“However, it can be hard for primary health professionals to start this sensitive conversation with patients.

“This campaign will better equip health professionals with the resources needed to support their patients.

HNECC PHN CEO Richard Nankervis supports the importance of raising awareness for maintaining a

Women’s health forum at Umina Beach

The forum included health professionals and members of the public and covered a range of health issues.

Reid said he wanted to provide a safe space for women to discuss women’s health issues and concerns.

“The Women’s Health Forum was an inclusive, safe space for women to come together with the Assistant Ministers and local health professionals to discuss health issues,” he said.

“The purpose of the forum was to better understand the difficulties being experienced by women and what the Federal

Government can do to improve healthcare on the Central Coast.

“Discussions covered a range of topics including menopause, the effects of long COVID-19, access to GPs in the region, and ensuring gender-sensitive healthcare on the Central Coast.”

Reid said the forum was insightful and provided valuable feedback.

“I will be ensuring this information is given to Health Minister Mark Butler,” he said.

“The Albanese Labor

Government is committed to improving healthcare outcomes in regional Australia, including on the Central Coast.”

Reid said he would host further health forums, including a men’s health forum.

Local health professionals speaking at the forum included included Dr Kelly Teagle from Menopause Matters and Dr Colette Hourigan, a GP and women’s health expert on the Central Coast.

Special gym for mums and mums-to-be

Many new mums and mums-to-be often find it hard to locate a gym which caters to their specific needs.

Many women want to continue training or for some, start a training regime, when they fall pregnant but accessibility is an issue.

Once women give birth and are ready to head back into the gym or exercise, it can be daunting trying to navigate what they should and shouldn’t do.

Ross Lucas and Calum Wilson, experts in pre and postnatal fitness,saw an opportunity to create a club that not only offered the most comprehensive training for pre and post natal fitness but also a place which could support mums from pre and post natal and well into motherhood.

So, BUMP health and fitness was born and opened its first club in Dee Why NSW, with a second club now operating at Erina under the supervision of Lucas and his wife Laura.

From pregnancy to birth and

healthy weight for improved heart health.

“Being overweight or obese is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, amongst other chronic diseases,” he said.

“We welcome the launch of the Bounce campaign during Heart Health Week, as it will be a great contributor to improved heart health.”

More information is available online at thephn.com.au/ bounce.

Source: Hunter New England Central Coast Primary Health Network

0404 727 802

0415

well into motherhood, BUMP offers expert pre and postnatal fitness with a variety of specific classes.

Every member starts off with a consultation and BUMP provides mums with a creche so they can come in and enjoy kid-free training while knowing their kids are being cared for.

Members are also offered an additional 45 minutes after their workout to keep their kids in the creche so they can have a shower, enjoy a coffee, catch up on work or just hang out with other members.

Lucas said according to the ABS, the Central Coast has a population of more than 309,000 people and is the third most populous place in NSW with an average growth rate of 0.66 per cent.

More than 40 per cent of people living in the area are families with children, with this percentage on the rise.

For more details go to https:// www.bumphealth.com.au/ central-coast.

Source: BUMP

Helicopter patrol - livestock warning

Ausgrid has engaged specialist contractors to conduct helicopter patrols to carry out routine, annual inspections of the electricity network for potential bushfire hazards

Between now and June, helicopter patrols will be in the air during daylight hours (weather permitting) and often flying at low altitude The helicopters fly between 90 and 170 kms per hour and may fly low at times, which can startle livestock Property owners may want to secure cattle and livestock during the patrols

Flights are scheduled for For more information including a flight schedule visit: ausgrid.com.au/bushfirepatrols

Central Coast from 15 May through mid May.

Source: Member for Robertson Gordon Reid

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid, Assistant Minister Emma McBride, Assistant Minister Ged Kearney, Dr Kelly Teagle and Dr Colette Hourigan at the forum

There are specialised classes for mums and mums-to-be, with creche on site

The campaign is all about preventative care

Drying Botanicals

There are lots of ways to dry botanicals, (flowers, foliage, seedheads),including the use of presses, silica and commercial freeze drying but I want to share with you the gentle and the more natural way of letting your specimens slowly release the moisture of life on their own and become something that is still indicative of their living form.

You will need a place that is very well ventilated, shaded to dark and cool to dry your botanicals.

Hanging them upside-down in bunches is the method that suits most but make sure that flower and seed heads are not touching each other.

Bind bunches no more than the thickness of two or three fingers with elastic bands that can be tightened, if need be, as the bunches dry.

I use part of a patio that is rather dim and the darker areas of my garage.

Some flowers need support as they dry, and a clever idea is to thread them through a soil sieve suspended from the ceiling.

Another way that is popular uses wire racks.

This method works best if the racks are resting on a supports or legs so that air can circulate completely around the botanical materials.

Finally, the evaporation method works well for plants

Down in the Garden: Dry Your Own Flowers

WITH CHERALYN DARCEY

Cheralyn is a horticulture author and along with Pete Little, hosts ‘At Home with The Gardening Gang’ 8 - 10am live every Saturday on CoastFM96.3

that need a slower process.

Strip leaves from stems and place in fresh full vase of water.

Place in a cool dim area and leave until water evaporates.

Grow Your Own

Although you can dry and use just about anything in your arrangements, some plants are better for the job than others.

So, let’s firstly explore what you could grow in your garden.

When selecting plant material, you will always find that stems that are woody rather than fleshy always dry best and will be far easier to handle and less likely to break.

This list is just a tiny fraction of suitable plants and the best drying method.

Everlasting Daisies (Xero chrysum bracteatum)

Hang. Cut before flowers fully open.

Banksia

Evaporation or hang dry.

Kangaroo Paw

Hang. Cut stems low on plant.

Mulla Mulla

Hang. Wait until flowerhead is fully open.

Billy Buttons

Hang. Cut stems low.

Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile)

Hang. Leave leaves on.

Roses (Rosa spp.)

Hang singularly or in bunches.

Baby’s Breath (Gypsophila spp.) Evaporation method.

Immortelle (Helichrysum italicum).

Hang. Buds and flowers can be used.

Statice (Limonium spp.)

Evaporation or hanging. Harvest stems from base of plant.

Love-in-a-Mist (Nigella damascene)

Hang. Cut when flowers are in full bloom and keep leaves on.

Zinnia (Zinnia elegans)

Hang or flat on wire rack. Harvest when fully open.

Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria)

Use the seed heads by cutting when they are still green and hanging to dry.

Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla)

When flowerheads are being to die, cut stems from bottom of plant.

Strip leaves and place in vase of water and let evaporate.

Foraging

Only permissible on private land where you have permission.

Be mindful because picking native flora is public spaces is against the law and that goes for fallen and dried materials. Stay away from roadside areas that could be sprayed with herbicides and other chemicals.

Gum Leaves (Eucalyptus spp.)

This foliage makes the most beautiful draping design element which suits circles, wreaths and hanging arrangements.

It can also be wired or

WHAT’S ON FOR PLANT LOVERS

Cactus and Succulent Sale, Charmhaven - Saturday 9am – 1pm Saturday 13th May

Central Coast Cactus and Succulent Club have an amazing sale on at the Charmhaven Hall Nararah Ave Charmhaven

More information about the sale and club: 0401544052

Soil, Pests and Predators in Your Edible Garden with Kerrie Anderson9:30am - 12:30pm Thursday 18th May

No matter what the size of your garden, from a balcony to acreage, for renters, community gardeners and homeowners alike, this workshop will help you gain skills in soil improvement and integrated pest management.

This workshop is designed for beginners and for those who want to improve their processes. Tickets and more information: synergypermaculture.com.au

GARDENING PLANNER

You can plant the following now: Culinary herbs, artichokes, broad beans, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbages, cauliflower, cress, garlic, kohlrabi, lettuce, mustard, onions, peas, shallots, spring onions, silverbeet, spinach, ageratum, alyssum, calendula, candytuft, Canterbury bells, carnation, cineraria, columbine, cornflower, delphinium, dianthus, everlasting daisy, forgetme-not, foxglove, godetia, gypsophila, hollyhock, honesty, larkspur, linaria, lobelia, nigella, pansy, poppy, primula, snapdragon, statice, stock, sweet pea, viola, wallflower

wrapped around vines to form shapes.

Harvest small branches when they have begun to naturally droop and dry themselves or have fallen.

Best used when in this semidry state and letting dry in your display.

Ferns

Cut from plant when they are beginning to lose their structure and droop.

To retain their form these are best dried by pressing although some ferns do look pretty when hung to dry. They will usually curl.

Palm Leaves

They usually dry very well standing or hanging but if you want a bit more control, dry flat on wire racks.

I personally love the stringy way the edges dry but if you prefer, you can trim the leaves to make them neater.

Palm leaves make dramatic

displays on their own or as background elements to other arrangements.

Interesting Botanicals

When foraging or even in your own garden, watch out for empty curled seed heads, interesting sticks and branches, withered dried stems, twisting vines and interesting seed pods.

These can all add amazing texture, colour and interest to your displays. Dry out by hanging or placing on wire racks.

I have also found that the flowers and seed heads of the Allium family, (garlic and chives for example), make brilliant, dried elements for your crafting.

Palm inflorescence are another interesting element that you can usually spy when

a twisted little tree.

Dried Display and Care

The easiest way to display your dried bounty is in a vase, just as you would fresh flowers but don’t miss the opportunity to make wreaths, small posies for gift giving and even hanging dried flower ‘chandeliers’ . Your arrangements will last a very long time but exactly how long will depend on the botanicals you used.

Everything breaks down eventually and deteriorates so they won’t look perfect forever. You may find a time comes when you will need to send them off to the compost pile. To keep them looking good longer, position out of direct sunlight and away from wet or damp areas.

Clean regularly with a hair

Orchid Show

Thursday 18 & Friday 19 May, 9am to 6pm Saturday 20 May, 9am to 2pm Cnr The Entrance Road and Dening Street, The Entrance @ lakesideshoppingcentre | Lakesideshopping.com.au

Crusaders set to take on Hawks

BASKETBALL

The Central Coast Crusaders play host to the Newcastle Hawks in one of the most anticipated basketball matchups of the season this Saturday, May 13.

The Mother’s Day weekend pink round sponsored by Breast Cancer Network Australia will see a bitter regional rivalry play out at Breakers Indoor Sports stadium at Terrigal.

Tipping things off at 5pm, the women’s squad will sport pink socks in this round 9 clash against the third placed Hawks. They will be coming into the game after holding their own in a tough loss at home to topseeded Centre of Excellence squad from Canberra on Sunday, May 7, in which they managed to cut down a 22-point deficit to 9 in the final quarter despite missing one of the league’s youngest and brightest Sara Matthews.

Matthews went down earlier last week with a leg injury and is not expected to return for this weekend’s home game, but Head Coach Mikko von Lueders remains confident in the

squad’s abilities.

“We went up against the league’s best (last) Sunday and the ladies proved that they can swing with the best of them,” von Lueders said.

“Sara’s firepower will obviously be missed this

weekend but I’m feeling very positive about our chances.”

The men tip off at 7pm in a matchup that Coasties have been waiting for all year as fan favorite Tom Akamarmoi returns to Breakers for the first time since 2021, but this time

in a Hawks Jersey. A member of multiple Youth League Championship squads and the Senior Men’s squad that brought home the banner in 2019, Akamarmoi was set to return to the Crusaders after taking a year off but has now

found himself a new home in Newcastle after disagreements with the coaching staff earlier this year.

Head of representative basketball at the Central Coast and Tom’s brother Killi Akamarmoi said this was the

matchup everyone’s been waiting for all year.

“The boys are always pumped to go up against Newcastle and now with the added element of facing a former teammate and friend in Tom, the ante has been upped,” he said.

“I also know that Tom is eager to see how he goes against the boys especially with his knowledge of our system and our players

“Either way I’m eager to see how this one plays out.”

The men come into this one with fresh legs after last weekend’s matchup against the Comets in Sydney was cancelled.

The Hawks sit two spots ahead of the Crusaders on the table with just one win separating them.

Both the men’s and women’s Crusaders squads go into this mid-season milestone just a few spots shy of the top eight and as the season reaches its latter stages both teams will need to push themselves if they want to see post-season basketball.

Stefan Kataric

World water ski championships headed for Gosford

The Central Coast has been chosen as the site for the 2023 IWWF World Waterski Racing Championships to be held from November 9-19.

International Waterski and Wakeboard Foundation (IWWF)

President Antonio Perez Priego said the ski racing community was excited that Australia would host the event with the “spectacular scenic backdrop of Gosford”.

“Hosting the IWWF World Water Ski Racing Championships in Australia this year provides a unique, once in a decade opportunity for Australian water ski racers to showcase the sport at the highest level,” he said.

Ski Racing Australia (SRA)

Chairman Joh Horbury said Australian participants have been at the very top echelon for two-plus decades.

“This (is a) great opportunity for us to welcome all

participants and visitors with open arms, help grow our sport by assisting all participants in their development and highlight the magnificent Central Coast as an international destination,” he said.

“We can’t wait to see our many supporters lining the banks and enjoying all this magnificent region has to offer and seeing our competitors on the water in an unrivalled international competition.”

Gosford was the home of NSW’s Zone 2 Ski Racing for nearly 20 years and also the location for the NSW World Selection Race in 2009.

The race course, set on a strip of Brisbane Water, offers concrete and rock walls at one end and open water at the other and will test the IWWF World Championships contenders in a true ski racing battle.

The previous edition of the IWWF World Waterski Racing Championships was held in 2019 in Vichy, France.

Waterski racing is the ultimate water based motorsport where speeds of about 193km/h can be achieved by a boat and a team consisting of a driver,

observer and skier.

IWWF World Championships events see competitors race four times over 10 days in classes for Open Men and Women, Formula 2 Men and Women and Junior Boys and Girls, with the World Champion named after obtaining the most points from three out of the four races in each class.

Places are timed over a 5km course with multiple laps run by competitors. Detailed event information will be made available soon with updated information available at www.worldwater skiracingchampionships.com.

Terry Collins

The Brisbane Water will be the setting for the 2023 IWWF World Waterski Racing Championships

Luke Cassidy goes for the basket in a round 5 clash with the Hills Hornets Mikaela Miller in action

Photo: LookPro Photography

Photo: LookPro Photography

Big end of year celebration for juniors

The 2023 season may have only recently kicked off but planning for Woy Woy Football Club’s end-ofseason celebrations are already underway following receipt of $2,000 from Greater Bank’s #GreaterCentralCoast Community Funding Program.

The club won the public vote in the program’s April round, with runners up Empire Bay/ Bensville RFS and Clown Doctors Central Coast each pocketing $500.

Woy Woy Football Club President, Peter Chippindale, said the money would go a long way towards helping to create a fantastic end-of-season presentation for the club’s Mini Roos and junior players.

“At Woy Woy FC we strive to provide the best value football and social experience for our kids, which has been a

Avoca Beach Bowling Club, part of the Wyong Leagues Group, has entered into a new two-year major sponsorship with the Avoca Football Club Sharks.

Wyong Leagues Group Sponsorship Manager, Brock Molan said involvement with Avoca Football Club was a natural progression from recently formed major community sponsorship of Central Coast Football.

significant challenge with seasons interrupted by COVID and ongoing cost of living pressures,” he said.

“Greater Bank’s generous donation could not have come

at a better time and the club really appreciates the opportunity to participate in the program.

“This money from Greater Bank will enable us to put

together an exciting and memorable day.

“Our presentation planning committee is already buzzing with ideas as to what we will be able to achieve for the kids.

“We are a community club, and happy kids with purpose and goals are a good indicator of a strong community moving forward.”

Greater Bank’s Central Coast

New football partnership for Avoca Sharks

“Now we have been able to directly align one of our venues, Avoca Beach Bowling Club, with a local organisation, that has more than 730 registered players representing all ages,” he said.

“On behalf of Avoca Beach Bowling Club we look forward to a long and fruitful association with the Sharks.”

President of Avoca Football Club, Justine Martin, said she and the club members were thrilled to align with Avoca Beach Bowling Club.

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT NORAVILLE INCLUDING 5G

Optus plans to upgrade the telecommunications facilities at the below mentioned address with the addition of new 5G equipment:

85 Oleander Street, Noraville NSW 2263 (RFNSA: 2263004)

The proposed 5G upgrade will consist of:

• Replacement of four (4) existing panel antennas with four (4) new panel antennas (each not more than 2.8m long);

• Installation of eight (8) new panel antennas (each not more than 2.8m long);

• Installation of eight (8) new Remote Radio Units (RRUs);

• Installation, relocation and removal of ancillary equipment including RRUs, antenna mounts, feeders, cabling, combiners, and

• Other associated equipment, and works within the existing equipment shelter

Optus regards the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 based on the description above.

In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code 2020, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Vanessa Wan at Service Stream Limited, 0427 459 605, Optus.Submissions@ servicestream.com.au or Zenith Tower B, Level 3, 821 Paci c Hwy, Chatswood NSW 2067 by 5pm, Monday 29 May 2023

If you would like to know more about this site, further information can be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au/2263004

“A partnership like this is huge for a community club and will help us to give back to our membership in a way we haven’t been able to before,” she said.

We look forward to the Bowlo becoming our local for postmatch catch-ups and for our club events and for this to be a long-term partnership that is a benefit to us both.”

Regional Sales Manager, Josh Swetnam, said it’s important for children to celebrate milestones.

“The commitment of kids to stick with a sport and be part of a team is something that should be recognised so they understand that their efforts are rewarded,” he said.

“We are delighted to contribute to the Woy Woy Football Club and wish them the best for the remainder of the season and a fabulous celebration at the end of it.”

Voting in the May round is open until 5pm on Wednesday, May 24, with Coastal a Cappella, Kariong and Districts Rugby Club and Gosford City Sub Branch – National Servicemen’s Association Affiliates in the running. You can vote at www.greater. com.au/greatercentralcoast.

Source: Greater Bank

PANEL BEATER

We are looking for a fully qualified and experienced panel beater to join the team in a multi dealer approved shop that has stood the test of time in Hornsby.

You must be fully qualified with a NSW tradie Licence and have first class attention to detail with good organisational skills and a “quality only” approach to work standards.

Valuable skills and attributes include:

• Speed

• Quality

• A keen eye for detail and finish

• Work well under pressure

• Weekend work available by mutual agreement

As you will have direct contact others in the team, it’s important that you have good communication skills and an approachable manner.

Job Type: Permanent Full Time

Salary: Competitive salary

Hours: Monday to Friday 7:30 to 4pm

Contact: info@srautobody.com.au

Phone: (02) 9476 2558

Source: Wyong Leagues Group

From left: Avoca Football Club Vice-President David Brooks, Cadet Referee Co-ordinator Matt Newman, Avoca Beach Bowling Club Venue Manager Scott Galloway and AFC President Justine Martin

The WWFC under 12s are looking forward to a great season – and a great celebration at the end of it

RUGBY

In Round 4 of the Central Coast Rugby Union competition on May 6, the match of the day at The Haven Oval saw Terrigal defeat Warnervale 35-14.

The teams were neck-andneck in the first 40 minutes of the game, going into half-time at seven-all, with one try apiece.

The second half was a little different.

Terrigal was able to post four further tries in the second half to go on to secure the victory.

Two of these tries were scored while Warnervale had two players in the sin bin and allowed Terrigal to take control in the match.

Warnervale did respond with a late try but it was all too late.

Best players for Terrigal were five-eight Adam Danckert, halfback Jye Cornish, hooker Ethan McInnes and centre

Jayden Woolley.

Warnervale had several good performers, headed by halfback Isaiah Niumata, prop Veipueki Siale and centre Tevita Aholelei.

Terrigal continues in its winning way and remains undefeated at this stage of the season.

Gosford recorded an away victory at Slade Park, defeating The Lakes 56- 17.

The win sees Gosford remain undefeated after four rounds of the competition.

They opened the scoring with a converted try to lead 7-0, maintaining this control for much of the first half, going into half-time with a 27-5 lead.

The Lakes had their chances to post points but often the stray pass cost them point scoring opportunities

Gosford maintained control of territory and possession for much of the second half and led by 37-5 at the midway point of the second half.

Terrigal trounces Warnervale to remain undefeated

It was all over for The Lakes by then but they did not stop trying and were rewarded with a couple of late tries through good play.

Best players for Gosford were halfback Ben Shelley, who scored 26 points through two tries and seven goals, No.8 Logan Campbell and flanker Mitch Parker.

The Lakes were best served by hooker Siosiua Kinahoi, prop Connor Starkey and No.8 Ashton Hutchinson- Walters. Avoca Beach scored a huge victory over Woy Woy at Woy Woy Oval, running out winner by 101-3.

The match was one-way traffic from start to finish and Woy Woy simply had no answer to the continuous onslaught.

It was a disappointing performance by the home team who were missing several players on the day Avoca Beach went to the halftime break leading by 54-3

with the result was a foregone conclusion at that early stage.

Avoca Beach was able to mount a final tally of 15 tries, with Mitchell Briggs and Jake O’Brien posting four and three tries respectively.

Best players for Avoca Beach were five-eight Sam Evans, lock Joel Delaney, fullback Mitch Briggs and winger Jake O’Brien.

For Woy Woy, flanker Casey Woodford, lock Max Edwards and five-eight Corby Delaforce never stopped trying.

The Razorbacks had a pleasing 79-0 victory over Lake Macquarie at Boolaroo.

It was one-way traffic for the entire 80 minutes, with Lake Macquarie having no answer to the Razorbacks’ attack.

The Razorbacks scored early and regularly posted points for the remainder of the contest, going into half-time with a 36-0 lead.

They went on to score a

further 43 points in the second half.

Best players for the visitors were No.8 Lachlan Peruch, winger Sean Peruch, who scored four tries, winger Jye Clack and fullback Ryan Fenning.

The best contributors for Lake Macquarie were No.8 Jonathon Coles and halfback Matias Furno.

The Premier 1 points table sees Avoca Beach on 19, Terrigal and The Razorbacks on 15, Gosford on 14, Warnervale on 9, Hornsby on 4, Woy Woy on 2 and The Lakes on 1. There were some exciting games in Women’s 10s matches this weekend, although two of the matches were very one-sided.

A good win was recorded by The Lakes, defeating the Razorbacks in a close one, while Avoca Beach and Terrigal recorded huge wins.

In Round 6 on May 13, the

Mariners have earned semi-finals berth

FOOTBALL

The Central Coast Mariners earned their stripes this season with a remarkable second placing in the national A-league competition.

As a result they are rewarded with a home-and-away semifinals series against Adelaide United starting this weekend in Adelaide, followed by a home match in Gosford on Saturday May 20.

As a professional football club, they deserve to be in the finals series for a multitude of reasons; their consistency, their tenacity, their professional coaching, their dedicated fan support, their underdog spirit and their positive impact on the

local community.

Coach Nick Montgomery has played no small part in the success of the team.

In this week’s pre-match interview he said: “All the boys are looking forward to the finals series.

“We’ve had some good performances, yet Adelaide are a very, very good team with good players and we’ll prepare as normal, and we will give them the respect we’ve always given them.”

Asked if there was a special finals strategy Monty said: “Nothing changes; we go out to attack and play games of football to win.

“At the start of the season we went out to get into the top six

and to get second is amazing.”

CCN asked if he was worried that several players may be poached by other clubs.

“I can tell you that all those

players in the dressing room are focused on the next two weeks,” he said.

In a somewhat surprising move the home-and-away series will have no away goals

rule in place, meaning that if the combined scores over the two matches are even at the end of the game in Gosford, the match will go into extra time.

If still no result, penalties will follow to decide the winner.

Fans however should feel cautiously optimistic.

The Mariners thrashed Adelaide 4-1 in Adelaide just weeks ago and with a home ground match the team will have the advantage of the passionate support of local fans in the second game.

Whatever the result, the club’s football philosophy has paid off.

The Mariners deserve to be in the finals series due to their consistent performance,

match of the day will see Gosford host The Razorbacks at home at Gosford Showground.

Terrigal will travel to Slade Park to take on home side The Lakes, Warnervale will host Hornsby at Woongarrah Oval and Woy Woy will be at home to Lake Macquarie at Woy Woy Oval.

In the President’s Cup, the Bay Rugby Club meets Avoca Beach at home while Gosford/ Kariong meets the Razorbacks at the Showground. Warnervale will host Terrigal at home.

In the Women’s 10s competition, Warnervale will host Hornsby at Woongarrah Oval, The Lakes will play Terrigal at home and the Razorbacks will meet Avoca Beach at Gosford Rugby Field.

Source: Central Coast Rugby

improvement and growth, quality coaching, underdog spirit, fan support and positive impact on the community and the sport.

They also deserve a massive home crowd for the semi-final match at Gosford’s Industree Group Stadium on Saturday, May 20.

The club is quietly hoping for a capacity crowd of 20,000 fans at the home semi-final to boost the team’s prospects of grand final chances.

Their dedication and accomplishments certainly make them worthy contenders for the ultimate prize in the league – a chance to play and win the 2022/23 Grand Final.

David Abrahams

Mariners Head Coach Nick Montgomery

Photo: CCM Media